bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling and analysis of performance on a field-aged Fe-Zeolite catalyst
Authors:   , Moores Roxanna , Cernansky Nicholas Peter
Published: July 2021

In this study a 1-dimensional computational model implementing conservation of mass, species and energy for both the gas phase and catalyst surface has been developed to predict the performance of an Fe-Zeolite selective catalytic reduction catalyst. This work investigates and analyzes the behavior of a fresh Fe-Zeolite catalyst as well as one that has been aged in a Heavy Duty Diesel engine performing in the field for 376k miles. The chemistry and performance for the two Fe-Zeolite configurations for the NH3 Storage, NH3 oxidation, NO Oxidation, Standard, Slow and Fast reactions are correlated and examined against synthetic gas rig test bench data and then subsequently verified with engine laboratory testing. It has been found that the Standard reaction was the most degraded reaction and the Fast reaction was the least affected by aging. As a result, in order to have the field-aged catalyst functioning to its optimized activity, the Fast reaction needs to be activated by keeping the NOx gas feed with a 50 % NO and 50 % NO2 gas composition.
Synchronized multi-material bioprinting of hetero-cellular models to study drug efficacy in co-culture
Authors:   , Snyder Jessica Elizabeth , Sun Wei
Published: July 2021

Bottom-up tissue engineering pursues automated process control over human tissue fabrication using the fundamental cellular, soluble, and architectural components as the working material. Key technology for methodological progress of bottom-up tissue engineering includes advanced biofabrication techniques to assemble viable biological material in 3-dimensional space and microfluidic devices to control timing and sequence of environmental stimulation. The presented research's objective is the development of design, characterization and fabrication approaches which integrate physiologically relevant microfluidic techniques and hetero-cellular architecture for cell-laden models by leveraging combinations of the biofabrication techniques; including precision extrusion deposition, multi-nozzle cell printing, replica molding, and a novel synchronized multi-material bioprinting system. This research focuses on the development of a synchronized multi-material bioprinter for the fabrication of 3D hetero-cellular models. The specific research objectives are: (1) combine multi-nozzle deposition system with a microlfuidic platform for controlled cell seeding in a microfluidic device for a hetero-cellular in vitro model for drug testing, (2) to define a 3D printing and replica molding processes to fabricate microfluidic and scaffold environments with control of the macro-scale (10-3-10-1 m) patterning of channels/structural elements and micro-scale (10-4-10-3 m) channel cross-section of internal features, (3) to develop and characterize an integrated synchronized multi-material bioprinter system to produce nano-liter droplets and 10-4-10-3 m diameter filaments with a heterogeneous packaging resolution of 10-5-10-3 m, and (4) to apply the synchronized multi-material bioprinter system to produce hetero-cellular models to study radioprotective drug efficacy in co-culture and metabolism rates in simulated weightlessness environments. The presented biofabrication methods are applied to fabricate a hetero-cellular liver model to study drug efficacy of the pro-drug amifostine to shield liver from radiation genetic damage and pharmacokinetic up-take in model microgravity.
Interfacial remendability of glass fiber / epoxy composites
Authors:   , Gogotsi Natalie , Palmese Giuseppe R.
Published: July 2021

The adhesion of reinforcing fibers to the matrix is vital for the load transfer within a reinforced composite. Being able to impart remendability to the fiber/epoxy interface would increase its material lifetime. Positive results have been obtained by employing the Diels-Alder reaction in a composite of furan-functionalized epoxyamine polymer and maleimide functionalized glass fiber. Microdroplet pullout testing has shown a healing efficiency of 40% after complete interfacial failure. The interfacial strength of the composite and the healing efficiency on a larger scale were determined through the use of Single Fiber Fragmentation and cyclic fatiguing. Close to 100% of the interfacial shear strength (IFSS) was recovered in samples when little damage was introduced. Up to 60% healing efficiency was seen in these samples, with up to 48% healing efficiency seen in samples that had lost a majority of their initial interfacial strength.
Electrochemical characterization of CdSe-coated ZnO nanowire extremely-thin-absorber solar cells
Authors:   , Jones Treavor Zachary , Baxter Jason B.
Published: July 2021

Four different CdSe-coated nanostructured ZnO ETA configurations as photoelectrochemical cells with polysulfide electrolyte were studied using both conventional and electrochemical characterization techniques. ETA configurations with different ZnO nanowire lengths of 500 nm and 1000 nm were varied with different CdSe absorber-layer thicknesses of 15 nm and 45 nm to examine the effects on PV performance, carrier transport, and carrier recombination. Linear-sweep voltammetry (J-V) measurements showed that longer ZnO nanowires with thinner CdSe absorber layers gave better PV performance with the 1000 nm length/15 nm CdSe thickness samples having the highest JSC ~4.4 mA/cm², VOC ~0.38 V, Pmax ~0.52 mW/cm², and second-highest FF ~0.32. Mott-Schottky (MS) analysis was performed on individual ETA-layer materials to obtain estimates of their ND and VFB for insight into how individual layers in an ETA cell can assist in carrier separation. MS results were shown to be irrespective of illumination, exposed area, or the electrolyte used. Annealed ZnO nanowires had an ND ~2x10¹⁹ cm⁻³, a VFB ~(-0.4) V. versus Ag/AgCl, and were observed to be n-type. MS analysis of planar CdSe showed it to be slightly n-type and gave parameter estimates of ND ~3x10¹⁷ cm⁻³ and VFB ~-1.1 V v. Ag/AgCl, which were also used to calculate its VBI to be ~0.4 V, and its depletion width, W to be ~44 nm. Carrier transport studies were performed using IMPS and photocurrent decay measurements to estimate the time constant for carrier transport, with the fastest observed for shorter nanowires and thicker CdSe absorber layers at ~10 [mu]s. Carrier recombination studies were also performed using IMVS, photovoltage decay, and EIS measurements to estimate the time constant for carrier recombination, with the slowest estimated for the samples with 45 nm CdSe thickness samples at ~100 ms. Therefore, shorter nanowires with thicker CdSe absorber layers showed the best potential for improving carrier collection and reducing recombination but due to their lowered J-V performance, must be reconciled with light-absorption and nanowire-density considerations. It was recommended that future endeavors for optimizing the design of ETA cell configurations incorporate these electrochemical techniques to provide additional insight into carrier transport and recombination, which can supplement the design of ETA cells beyond using conventional characterization methods alone.
Three dimensional kinematic and surface interaction analysis of a novel total ankle replacement surface design using a numerical model of the hind foot
Authors:   , Mankarious Wagdi George , Siegler Sorin
Published: July 2021

Ankle joint end stage osteoarthritis can be a deliberating condition that is often not treated due to lack of viable treatment options. The current standard of treatment is total ankle fusion which does not only limit mobility but can lead to further complications with neighboring joints. Alternative treatment uses the currently improving Total Ankle Replacements (TAR). Until recently, TAR have been widely unsuccessful due to the accepted design based off a dated assumption which states that the ankle is a one degree of freedom joint with a fixed axis of rotation. Similar to improvements made to knee implants after the proper kinematics of the knee were noted, the TAR have improved when work done by many researchers concluded that the ankle joint is not a one degree of freedom joint and that it doesn't have a fixed axis of rotation for any of its degrees of freedom. This study proposes a novel design for a TAR based off of a novel morphological study done by Siegler et. al. and analyzes the kinematics and interactions of the novel articulating surfaces compared to traditional TAR designs. The proposed method of analysis uses a currently available 3-D dynamic model of the hind foot to assess ankle joint kinematics and articulating surface interactions by looking at the results of range of motion, kinematic coupling, ligaments strains and spatial distance mapping of the articulating surfaces. Five different models were analyzed. A Natural model of the hind foot, an Inman design based on the dated morphological study done by Inman, a Conic and Cylindrical designs based on current fashions of TAR and a novel Anatomical design based on the morphological study done by Siegler. The results of the study supported the notion that the ankle is not a one degree of freedom joint and that it did not have a fixed axis of rotation. Range of motion was found to be slightly increased compared to the natural ankle with the novel Anatomical design while the traditional designs have not delivered the same range of motion. Kinematic coupling was found to be similar across the five models, which hinted to the larger role ligaments play in kinematic coupling. Ligament strain analysis found that the Anatomical design allowed for major ankle joint ligaments to be strained similar to that of the Natural model. Articulating surface interactions were similar to that of the Natural model in the Anatomical design due to the anatomically similar saddle geometry of the implant surface design compared to the natural anatomy.
Environmental Etiology of Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocythemia and Primary Myelofibrosis
Authors:   , Gross-Davis Carol Ann , Newschaffer Craig J. , Burstyn Igor
Published: July 2021

Objectives The etiology of a rare category of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), bone marrow diseases with an excess of blood cells, is currently unknown. An MPN cluster in Northeastern Pennsylvania allowed investigation of effects of environmental risk factors and to assess the potential for gene-environment interactions. Since no strong hypothesis could be advanced, we focused on known occupational and environmental carcinogens, especially those previously implicated in blood tumors, in our investigation (e.g. benzene, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), aromatic & heterocyclic amines). The aims of this dissertation were to evaluate the associations between lifestyle and environmental risk factors for the most common myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) (PV, ET, and PMF), with and without JAK2 V617FV617F. We also explore an interaction between known susceptibility genotypes for a subset of cases and controls and potential mutagenic chemical exposures, including PAHs. Methods This 2011 population based case-control study assessed residential, smoking and dietary history by telephone interview in Schuylkill, Luzerne and Carbon counties in Pennsylvania. Cases (n=55) were identified from the Pennsylvania cancer registry and a previous MPN study in Pennsylvania. Controls (n=473) were selected based on eligibility screening using random digit dialing. Blood samples for genotyping were collected from a subset of 31 cases and 292 controls. Results Cases were older (median age=71 vs. 61years) and more likely to be male (49% vs. 39%) compared to controls but otherwise demographically similar. We found no relationships between MPNs and smoking history, residential history, diet, and lifestyle behaviors with presumed exposure to aromatic and heterocyclic amines. After studying the main effects of 14 environmentally sensitive genes, we found that only the NAT2, CYP1A2, GSTA1, and GSTM3 variants were associated with an average of 3-to 5-fold increased odds of having an MPN. Conclusion While these results do not confirm a gene environment interaction effect for one specific chemical, the findings encourage further exploration of the interaction hypothesis with respect to NAT2, GST, and CYP gene biological pathway and chemical exposures. These same genes appear to be implicated in cases with the somatic mutation believed to be involved in the etiology of MPNs, especially PV. Although no association was found between exposures related to aromatic and heterocyclic amines and MPNs, our findings suggest that genotypes that modify the toxicity of these exposures may play a role in MPNs.
Anxiety trends in patients awaiting invasive cardiac procedures in the outpatient preprocedural unit
Authors:   , Shajimon Binu , Dreher Heyward Michael
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is associated with life threatening conditions. Invasive cardiac procedures that are used for diagnosis and treatment of CVD provoke anxiety. Hence, individuals waiting to undergo invasive cardiac procedures may experience cardiac anxiety (CA), state anxiety (SA), and/or trait anxiety (TA). A high level of anxiety exemplifies the complexity of psychosomatic and physiological effects that influence the outcome of cardiac procedures and the treatment and prognosis of CVD. This study addressed the gap in evaluating the level of the preprocedural anxiety (CA, SA, and TA) and determined the difference in CA, SA, and TA in male and female patients admitted for invasive cardiac procedures so that the specific anxiety could be identified and properly treated and managed. DESIGN: A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used. A study sample of 92 patients who met the inclusion criteria were recruited from 113 consecutive patients admitted in an outpatient preprocedural unit for invasive cardiac procedure. METHODS: On procedure day, the participants filled out the Cardiac Anxiety Questionnaire-Revised (CAQ-R), Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory form -Y (STAI-Y), and the Demographic Data Form while waiting in the outpatient preprocedural unit. RESULTS: ANCOVA analysis revealed that there was no significant difference in CA, SA, or TA between male and female patients. A significant difference was found in SA in participants with and without heart disease and in CA in patients with and without a history of HTN. However, Pearson correlation (r) analyses showed significant correlation among the three variables: A moderate correlation between SA and TA (r = 0.55; p < .05); and a fair correlation between CA and SA (0.22) and between CA and TA (0.25). A stepwise regression analysis revealed that annual income was the most significant predictor of CA, a history of heart disease of SA, and no predictors contributed to TA. CONCLUSION: Participants with TA demonstrated significant SA, and those with low income and a diagnosis of heart disease had significant CA.
Strategies to Enhance Drug Loading and Functionality in Polymeric Ultrasound Contrast Agents
Authors:   , Soe Mi Thant Mon , Wheatley Margaret A.
Published: July 2021

Ultrasound contrast agents (UCA) are currently studied to further improve their diagnostic capabilities and for better targeted delivery of genes and drugs, with a strong focus on cancer therapy. These injectable microbubbles that strongly interact with ultrasound can be loaded with chemotherapeutic drugs, such as hydrophilic Doxorubicin-HCl (Dox-HCl), for successful targeted delivery upon rupturing under focused ultrasound. This reduces the harmful side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs that are administered systemically. Previous studies with UCA made from poly (lactic acid) (PLA) have shown maximum drug loading of 6.2 mg Dox-HCl/ g PLA at an initial loading concentration of 30 mg Dox-HCl/ g PLA. In order to increase the treatment efficiency, Dox loaded magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MNP) were encapsulated within the PLA shell. The inclusion of the MNP not only allows for increased Dox loading, but also provides more imaging capabilities, since MNP can be imaged using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) even after ultrasound-induced rupture of UCA. Preliminary in vitro tests were performed to determine methods of maintaining the highest amount of ultrasound interaction, measured by acoustic enhancement, possible for magnetic nanoparticles capped with oleic acid (MNP-OA) loaded UCA. This was seen at 33wt% MNP-OA loading where the enhancement reached 14.77±0.61 dB. The magnetic nanoparticles had a short shelf life and so, the MNP-OA were further coated with Pluronic acid to form MNP-OA-PA. The hydrophobic Dox (h-Dox), formed after removing the HCl, was loaded onto the MNP, between the oleic acid chains. However, there was a low entrapment of 2.88 [mu]g Dox/ mg MNP. When these MNP-OA-PA were loaded onto the UCA, the resulting UCA were non-echogenic. The problem was identified by loading just the Pluronic acid onto the UCA, which showed that UCA lose their echogenicity when formed in the presence of Pluronic acid. Low loading of Dox onto the MNP-OA together with the decreased acoustic enhancements made the design of Dox-loaded MNP-OA-PA encapsulated in UCA less than was hoped for. After the Dox-HCl was modified to make it more hydrophobic, they were loaded onto PLA UCA to determine whether the drug payload would increase since PLA is also hydrophobic. It was found that in the hydrophobic form, a maximum drug load of 27.18±0.39 mg Dox / g PLA can be achieved upon initial loading of 30 mg Dox / g PLA for the 3wt% h-Dox loading, resulting in a significant increase (p<0.0001) in drug payload when compared to Dox-HCl loading. The highest acoustic enhancement of 12.69±0.81dB was seen at the largest dose recorded (15.3 [mu]g/mL) for the in vitro acoustic enhancement experiment. This increase in drug encapsulation would allow a higher dose of doxorubicin to be delivered to the patient while maintaining the desired acoustic characteristics.
The Effects of Self-Book© Art Therapy on Emotional Distress in Female Cancer Patients
Authors:   , Radl Donna M. , Bradt Joke
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the Self-Book© art therapy intervention on emotional distress and psychological well-being in female cancer patients. Assessing and treating patients' unmet emotional needs is a national focus in oncology care today. The intervention provided patients with an opportunity to portray their feelings and identify coping skills artistically through a creative process. Art therapy is based on the theory that the human mind tends to experience intrusive and avoidant stress response symptoms when faced with adverse events, such as a life-threatening illness. Creative expression can help patients reintegrate their sense of self and strengthen personal attributes. To evaluate the intervention, a repeated measures randomized controlled trial design was employed. Sixty consenting women were enrolled and randomly assigned to either the six-session Self-Book© art therapy intervention group or the standard care control group. Results suggest that Self-Book© art therapy may help decrease emotional distress and enhance spiritual well-being in female cancer patients during active oncology treatment. Positive trends in the data were present, but there were no statistically significant differences between the groups for the two main variables. Small treatment effects were found for Self-Book© art therapy on participants' psychological well-being. However, one subscale measure revealed statistically significant greater improvements in Self-Book© art therapy participants' spiritual wellbeing compared to the standard care control participants. Additionally, 30% of art therapy participants reported post-intervention emotional distress scores that were below the clinical range for emotional distress, compared with only 5% of standard care control participants, suggesting that Self-Book© art therapy has clinical significance. Analysis of limited narrative data from exit interviews contributed to positive trends in emotional distress, suggesting that emotional needs were met for the majority of Self-Book© art therapy participants.
Local television revenue models changing to compete with new technology
Authors:   , Figures Randi , Paleski Rich , Tedesco Albert S.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this thesis is to propose solutions to successfully navigate changing trends that may threaten a television station's traditional revenue stream. What are some currently possible methods to compete with new and emerging consumer technology that is currently in competition with a commercial television station? By using alternative solutions such as content integration that leverages the assets and brand recognition currently in place at a local television stations. Can we augment the current ad model with alternative methods of advertising to replace any shortfalls in ad revenue?
An analysis of the demand for imported foreign television programs in China
Authors:   , Li Keyang , Tedesco Albert S. , Salas Philip W.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study is to analyze the demand for imported foreign television programs in China in the next 5 years. The Chinese TV market is a large market with 360 TV stations that need to import numerous foreign TV programs to serve a variety of audiences. This study was created via survey to discover how regular consumers think and feel about the foreign television programs and utilized field interviewing to determine their attitudes and needs for imported overseas television programs. In addition, online secondary quantitative data was applied to analyze the imported TV programs in China from 2008 - 2011. During the past decade, many international film festivals and television awards ceremonies are held in China, as well as some TV communication panels conducted in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, China has become the largest television program trading market in Asia. Thus it is important to understand the relevant trading information.
Look at the bigger picture an analysis of Netflix's business model and strategy from CEO Reed Hastings' long-term view
Authors:   , Ramsaran Amanda , Foster Heather , Tedesco Albert S.
Published: July 2021

This thesis is more of a case study, aiming to explore the potential impact of Netflix' business model and strategy on the traditional television and film ecosystem. It is a forward-looking examination, derived from CEO Reed Hastings' Long-Term View for Netflix as declared through the company's Investor Relations website in February 2014. This outlook was presented the same time the company's 10-K was filed for Fiscal Year [FY] 2013 with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Reed Hastings' Long-Term View for Netflix is written like a manifesto, declaring the revolutionary power that the company holds with regards to the television and film industry, primarily as a distributor of content. Netflix's power lies within its proprietary system and application technology that offers its subscribers suggestions and recommendations on what next to watch based on their viewing preferences and history. This collection of data has allowed Netflix to make decisions on content licensing and acquisition and, within the last few years, investment in original content. The Internet TV network's platform is available to subscribers for a no-commitment low monthly fee. Content is widely accessible, from any Internet connection and across a multitude of devices, from smartphones to large-format Smart TVs. Hastings declares that "the linear TV channel model is ripe for replacement" because of new time-shifting capabilities and technological advancements, including Netflix's own, that have given audiences advanced screen proliferation, and new choices in how they consume television and film, primarily through the Internet. This case study aims to present the ways in which Netflix is challenging that linear television model and theatrical film release model alike through their business model and strategy, as outlined particularly in the company's long-term view, outlook in their financial documents to investors, and releases about future endeavors.
Adaptation of western TV formats In China
Authors:   , Ruan Die , Foster Heather , Tedesco Albert S.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of the study was to analyze how western TV formats adapt to Chinese television market and take The Voice of China as an example. A case study explored the successful factors of the show including content analysis and questionnaire survey. Through questionnaire surveys among one hundred participants in 18-49 aged group and interview with professional producers, the researcher explored how did The Voice of China appeal audience and what channels did the audience get the information about this show. The research of The Voice of China's successful format might become a weather vane of introducing TV formats to Chinese market, which also guided television producers to create more adaptable shows for Chinese audiences' viewing habit. Meanwhile, regards to western TV formats' distributors, they will have some practical experience when they decide to export formats to China and other Asian countries.
The evolution of MTV music programs an analysis of the MTV artists program
Authors:   , Zhang Huiming , Tedesco Albert S.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of the study was to explore the evolution of MTV music programs by analyzing the MTV Artists program. Launched in 1981, MTV originally got its fame from its music videos and music shows. But in order to keep engaging its viewers, it has shifted from a pure music channel to a channel dedicated to pop culture. Its music programs moved from television to a digital platform gradually. The MTV Artists program launched in 2012 was the new digital music initiative of MTV. The researcher used content analysis to understand the background of the MTV Artists program. A survey was conducted to measure the influence of the program on MTV's brand image and viewership.
A comparison of television network launch strategies in China and the US
Authors:   , Zhao Mingyao , Salas Philip W. , Tedesco Albert S.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this qualitative case study is to determine what strategies are utilized by television networks to enter Chinese and American markets, what affects those strategies, and how to be successful in a government-controlled media environment. This research mainly focused on two case studies to understand the differences between how TV networks are launched in China and the US, in order to illustrate the differences between the Chinese and American media systems. A questionnaire was sent out to MTV China and MTV USA to collect basic information about their television operations in both China and the US.
Pain Management and Comfort in Robotic Laparoscopic Prostatectomy Patients
Authors:   , Juhas-Davis Kimberly A. , Wilson Linda
Published: July 2021

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in American men with about 1 in 7 men being diagnosed during his lifetime. Robotic surgery has been increasing since its inception over 10 years ago and these procedures continue to grow and diversify. A focus on pain control, reducing invasiveness and promoting early discharge is a benefit and goal with use of Robotic Procedures. Pain assessment and management has become a priority to many stakeholders including medical caregivers, patients, health care organizations and credentialing agencies. Although pain is reduced in minimally invasive surgery, there is a gap in the literature describing pain and comfort management. A variety of pharmacologic agents have been used to treat pain and improve comfort in this population. Pain control modalities and treatments in this research focus specifically on pharmacologic modalities. Two groups were formed to differentiate use of opioids in Group A and opioids plus alpha 2 agonist in Group B. After a standard of care for each patient, pain and comfort levels were measured and medical records were reviewed. Participants were placed into Group A or B depending upon their medications received. The null hypothesis of this research is that there will be no difference between two standard anesthesia protocols with regard to pain and comfort in the perioperative setting and decreased pain will not be associated with increased comfort. Data collection ceased upon completion of both groups and statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between Group A and Group B.
Inmates, Identity, and Art
Authors:   , Guldin Jillian Leigh , Awais Yasmine J.
Published: July 2021

Approximately more than half of the imprisoned persons in the United States are individuals having a mental health diagnosis. As the mental health population within these facilities continues to rise, the lack of mental health professionals serving the population persists. For the student art therapist about to begin an internship at a jail, there is a lack of information, which leads to questions about mixed messages and uncertainty. This thesis addressed the thoughts, feelings, and concerns of a student art therapist completing her internship in a jail through the use of heuristic methodology and artistic inquiry. Through the methods of journaling and spontaneous art making, the researcher identified three themes within the artwork, quality of lines, space utilized and content; and six themes in the journals, boundaries, interactions with colleagues, negative emotions, competence, and lack of interest. Through creative synthesis using a one-canvas process painting, the researcher was able to gain a better understanding of herself as an individual and as a therapist. Recommendations and suggestions for future research and student practitioners was provided based on the results.
Assessing the Alumni Perception of the Value of the Master of Science in Arts Administration Degree from Drexel University
Authors:   , Pacific Kristal Patricia , Brody Jean
Published: July 2021

This paper will look at the perception of the value of the Master of Science in Arts Administration degree from alumni of the Drexel University program. In particular, this thesis will explore the key areas of satisfaction and dissatisfaction. Overall, the thesis concludes that there is general satisfaction amongst alumni with the education that they have received and the applicability of the knowledge gained to various career paths. Conversely, the keys areas of dissatisfaction include the inconsistencies in the way that the degree is viewed in the arts administration field and the difficulty in achieving a work-life balance when pursuing careers in the field. The methods used to complete this original research include an interview with Alan Salzenstein, Board President of the Association of Arts Administration Educators (AAAE), coupled with a survey of Drexel University arts administration alumni.
The Art of Sustainability
Authors:   , Broderick Lewis Jessica , Brody Jean
Published: July 2021

This paper examines the ways in which visual arts organizations, which include galleries, museums or schools with exhibition space are incorporating environmentally sustainable strategies into their daily operations and programming. The economic hardships currently being experienced by the arts and cultural sector, along with increasing concerns over climate change and dwindling natural resources has created an important opportunity for collaboration between the arts and the environment. The focus of the study is on the use of sustainable practices in the production of art, the use of art to educate the public on environmental issues, the construction of green facilities and the implementation of green business operations. This paper explores the reasons why certain organizations have chosen to implement green strategies and others have not. By assessing current trends in sustainable practices, highlighting obstacles arts organizations confront in their efforts to be green and providing recommendations for moving forward, this study addresses research areas that have been largely ignored within the sector. Although many organizations are making commendable strides in green initiatives, there is no overarching understanding of what the visual arts should be doing. Beyond the organization, authority on environmental issues needs to be delegated for the entire visual arts field. Implementing green practices requires collaboration with leaders across multiple disciplines. Creating best practices and field wide policies, along with marketing green efforts can be achieved by working together within and outside of the visual arts community. If visual arts organizations use the strategies presented in this paper they may be able to better engage existing audiences and attract new ones, cut operating costs, generate positive public relations, increase funding opportunities, expand programming and contribute to the world's environmental wellness.
Digital Opportunities for Arts Businesses
Authors:   , Fervoy Thomas , Brody Jean
Published: July 2021

The missions and business models for most arts organizations were created prior to the advent of the Internet as we know it today. Arts businesses, whether non-profit or for-profit, face a growing digital divide in which technology is moving very quickly, but these kinds of small businesses are not keeping pace, and in general can not. This thesis provides original research in the form of two case studies, which explore the question of how the evolving online landscape is changing how we construct our arts organization web presence, and conceive of what our role is as an arts organization or artist. Utilizing the examples found in these case studies, this paper provides practical approaches for ways that even small arts companies can begin to cross the digital divide and leverage improved web presences to meet their business challenges today, and innovate for the arts industry in the future. A key conclusion of this paper is that, regardless of size or budget, arts businesses need not be left out of the digital conversation today, nor relegate their technical aspirations to the sidelines.
Alternative small scale meteorology input to a chemical transport model
Authors:   , Lazarova Krassimira Ilieva , Kreitzberg Carl William
Published: July 2021

In order to respond to the increasing demand for better understanding of the environment, air quality studies at different scales are required. The Community Multi-scale Air Quality Model (CMAQ) chemical transport model is designed to handle all major scales of interest. However, the meteorology input to the model has to represent adequately the atmospheric conditions at these scales. So far, the meteorological input to CMAQ has been supplied by the Fifth-Generation Pennsylvania State University / National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Mesoscale Model (MM5). This research suggests another way to obtain small scale meteorological data from coarse resolution MM5 data instead of further running MM5 at fine resolution - a "prognostic-diagnostic mix" approach. We propose to use a diagnostic model to supply the meteorological data from coarse resolution MM5 data. The challenges of the linking process as well as air quality results from CMAQ are investigated. A proof of concept is presented.
Exploring the Nature of Walking in Dance/Movement Therapy
Authors:   , Albert Lauren M. , Goodill Sherry W.
Published: July 2021

References to the use of walking, not only as a basic total body action but also as an expressive element, are abundant in dance/movement therapy (DMT) literature. The researcher's intent was to generate descriptions of its range of use in DMT practice and to find possible symbolic or psychological meanings of walking in this therapeutic medium. In order to so, the researcher used an artistic inquiry methodology. Four dance/movement therapists participated in a data collection workshop. They were asked to think of a time they used a walking intervention in a session, embody a client who walked in that session and then to create a movement motif based on this walking intervention. Then, participants performed their motifs, taught their motifs to the researcher and then wrote a brief poetic narrative about what they saw, felt or experienced. A focus group followed wherein these participants were asked to discuss ways they have used walking in their clinical practice. The researcher analyzed data that emerged from the workshop using theater and dance techniques and then generated a final creative synthesis in the form of a solo performance video. The video created was in response to the research question, "how is walking used in dance/movement therapy? And what are the sensations, emotions, themes and meanings that emerge from the use of walking in dance/movement therapy practice?" After the exploring the range of uses, sensations, emotions, themes and meanings that emerged from the data collected in this study, five major categorical themes were crystallized. These themes include, shifting awareness/grounding/opening, instability/stability, walking as a bridge to dance/movement, walking as a metaphor/relational process, and transforming disability into ability.
Determining the Efficacy of a Nutrition Education Intervention on Improving Consumer Comprehension of the Nutrition Label
Authors:   , Finkelstein Marlee A. , Volpe Stella L.
Published: July 2021

Nutrition-related health problems and diseases have become a major concern in recent years. Scientists have established associations between Nutrition Label use and positive dietary outcomes. Furthermore, they have determined that consumers may be unable to correctly comprehend the information provided on Nutrition Labels. Research has shown that, although many variables play a role in limited label use among consumers, nutrition knowledge and a lack of nutrition education appear to be major concerns. Therefore, conducting nutrition education programs may ameliorate health illiteracy rates among the American population, increase label use, and ultimately improve dietary outcomes. This research will conduct a gender-focused nutrition education intervention in reading Nutrition Labels to college students in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The aim of the study is to determine the efficacy of a nutrition education intervention in increasing comprehension of the Nutrition Label in college students. Participants will perform nutrition knowledge tests before and after the intervention. Baseline and post-intervention questionnaire scores will be compared by statistical analyses to determine the significance of the intervention.
The Effect of Palliative Care Team-led Family Meetings on End-of-Life Decision-Making Among Medical Surrogates of Hospitalized, Incapacitated, Senior, African Americans with Life Limiting Illnesses
Authors:   , Shaw Maria Doll , Wilson Linda
Published: July 2021

Culture and ethnicity are known to influence end-of-life decision-making. The purpose of this study was to conduct a retrospective chart review to explore whether Palliative Care Team (PCT)-led family meetings influence end-of-life decisions made by medical surrogates of hospitalized, incapacitated, senior, African Americans suffering with life limiting illnesses. Using Imogene King's nursing theory of Goal Attainment as the overarching framework in achieving effective caring, the electronic medical records (EMRs) of 96 African Americans, whose medical surrogates participated in a PCT-led family meeting on their behalf to discuss end-of-life care options from April 1, 2013 to March 31, 2014 were reviewed. Data extracted from EMRs identified end-of-life decisions made by the surrogates. The data were also examined to compare decisions made by surrogates with what the patients documented in their Living Wills (LW). Finally, the data were used to examine relationships between age, gender, and kinship, and end-of-life decisions made by surrogates on the patient's behalf. Demographics and variables were examined using descriptive statistics. ANOVA and Pearson Chi-Square were utilized to evaluate relational significance. A significant relationship was noted between decreased length of hospital stay and those transitioned to comfort care. Additionally, a representative number (40%) of these patients were transitioned from restorative to comfort care following their surrogate's participation in a PCT-led meeting. While few (13.5%) had a LW, of those LWs available, the medical surrogates generally upheld the patients' wishes documented within their LW. Age, gender, and kinship played an insignificant role in the surrogate's care pathway decision. Meetings were conducted by PCT physicians or nurse practitioners. Both obtained similar meeting outcomes, thus implying that family meeting facilitation skills are similar between these disciplines. This work suggests that the PCT-led family meeting can influence medical surrogate decision-making. Future efforts must focus on fostering the right of autonomy among African Americans, and providing education concerning the importance of the LW. Making PCTs available to those involved in end-of-life decision-making can further efforts to eliminate health care disparities which African Americans continue to face.
Mathematical Models to Describe Antioxidant Depletion in Polyethylene-Clay Nanocomposites under Thermal Aging
Authors:   , Ahmad Iftekhar , Cairncross Richard Allan
Published: July 2021

Antioxidants are typically added to polyethylene to extend its durability, and recently clay nanoparticles have been blended into polyethylene to improve mechanical properties. However, the clay nanoparticles also accelerate the rate of antioxidant depletion in polyethylene. This thesis presents mathematical models that describe the underlying mechanisms of antioxidant (hindered-phenol) depletion and predict experimentally-measured antioxidant profiles in polyethylene-clay nanocomposites. The mathematical models use a reaction kinetic scheme that includes free radical initiation and propagation reactions, antioxidant stabilization reactions and free radical termination reactions. In the model, alkyl free radicals oxidize rapidly. The role of antioxidants is to stabilize the oxidized free radicals to hydroperoxides, and interrupt propagation reactions. However, in nanocomposites, continuous depletion of antioxidant is caused by the clay acting as a catalyst to decompose hydroperoxides and regenerate alkyl free radicals. This cyclic hydroperoxide generation and decomposition leads to much faster antioxidant depletion in polyethylene nanocomposites. Phenoxyl radicals of antioxidants generated by stabilization reactions contribute to terminate polymeric free radicals and limit their accumulation. The model also describes diffusion of antioxidant and oxygen within the samples and loss of antioxidant by evaporation or blooming to the surface of neat polyethylene. In nanocomposite samples there are two zones of antioxidant depletion: a 'flat core zone' and 'depleted skin zone'. In the flat core zone antioxidant depletion is slower and uniform, and in the depleted skin zone, antioxidant depletes more rapidly to produce a skin layer which is void of active antioxidant. The diffusion-reaction model describes this by combining several factors such as variable diffusivity caused by clay orientation at skin and additional generation of alkyl free radicals at the skin layer. The model also predicts antioxidant depletion profiles for a number of different experimental conditions including aging in air or inert atmosphere that cause different profiles of antioxidant concentration.
Achievable schemes for cost/performance trade-offs in networks
Authors:   , Boyle Bradford D. , Weber Steven P.
Published: July 2021

A common pattern in communication networks (both wired and wireless) is the collection of distributed state information from various network elements. This network state is needed for both analytics and operator policy and its collection consumes network resources, both to measure the relevant state and to transmit the measurements back to the data sink. The design of simple achievable schemes are considered with the goal of minimizing the overhead from data collection and/or trading off performance for overhead. Where possible, these schemes are compared with the optimal trade-off curve. The optimal transmission of distributed correlated discrete memoryless sources across a network with capacity constraints is considered first. Previously unreported properties of jointly optimal compression rates and transmission schemes are established. Additionally, an explicit relationship between the conditional independence relationships of the distributed sources and the number of vertices for the Slepian-Wolf rate region is given. Motivated by recent work applying rate-distortion theory to computing the optimal performance-overhead trade-off, the use of distributed scalar quantization is investigated for lossy encoding of state, where a central estimation officer (CEO) wishes to compute an extremization function of a collection of sources. The superiority of a simple heterogeneous (across users) quantizer design over the optimal homogeneous quantizer design is proven. Interactive communication enables an alternative framework where communicating parties can send messages back-and-forth over multiple rounds. This back-and-forth messaging can reduce the rate required to compute an extremum/extrema of the sources at the cost of increased delay. Again scalar quantization followed by entropy encoding is considered as an achievable scheme for a collection of distributed users talking to a CEO in the context of interactive communication. The design of optimal quantizers is formulated as the solution of a minimum cost dynamic program. It is established that, asymptotically, the costs for the CEO to compute the different extremization functions are equal. The existence of a simpler search space, which is asymptotically sufficient for minimizing the cost of computing the selected extremization functions, is proven.
Learning of Identity from Behavioral Biometrics for Active Authentication
Authors:   , Fridman Lex , Kam Moshe , Weber Steven P.
Published: July 2021

In this work, we look into the problem of active authentication on desktop computers and mobile devices. Active authentication is the process of continuously verifying a person's identity based on the cognitive, behavioral, and physical aspects of their interaction with the device. In this work, we consider several representative modalities including keystroke dynamics, mouse movement, application usage patterns, web browsing behavior, GPS location, and stylometry. We implement a binary classifer for each modality and organize the classifers as a parallel binary decision fusion architecture. The decisions of each classifer are fed into a decision fusion center (DFC) which applies the Chair-Varshney fusion rule to generate a global decision. The DFC minimizes the probability of error using estimates of each local classifer's false rejection rate (FAR) and false acceptance rate (FRR). We test our approach on two large datasets of 67 desktop computer users and 200 mobile device users. We are able to characterize the performance of the system with respect to intruder detection time and to quantify the contribution of each modality to the overall performance.