bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miRNA Mediated Post-Transcriptional Gene Regulation in Response to Abiotic Stress in Plants
Authors: Horgan Katelyn Joy , Henderson Jeffrey Odell
Published: September 2020

Due to their sessile nature, plants are often exposed to harsh environmental conditions.  Their livelihood depends on their innate ability to respond to stress and cope with whatever challenges they may face.   Phenotypic responses have been characterized to correlate to abiotic stresses, but the molecular mechanisms which underlie these responses are still under investigation.   Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to play a key role in post-transcriptional regulation in response to abiotic stress.   These small, 21 nt miRNAs, target specific mRNA transcripts and affect their translation which may cause downstream effects leading to abiotic stress response.  In the following review, research using Arabidopsis thaliana as a model system to investigate post-transcriptional regulation in response to abiotic stressors, such as phosphate depletion and oxidative stress, is discussed.  Furthermore, research in more economically important crops, such as corn and rice, is overviewed.  Investigation into miRNA function in response to stress could provide a new platform to engineer more resilient crops which may prove crucial as climate change and food insecurity continue to plague our agricultural systems.
Improving Company Production: The Role of Organizational Incentives in Enhancing Employee Discretionary Effort
Authors: Black Max
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this paper is to study the relationship between organizational incentives and employee discretionary effort. To examine this relationship data collected from 753 individual employees from 2003-2004 composing the Professional Worker Career Experience Survey, (PWCES) United States, was analyzed through a linear regression test. Results indicate a significant positive relationship between organizational incentives and employee discretionary effort. When organizational incentives increase, so does employee discretionary effort. The results of this study suggest that as businesses increase employee incentives, employee proactivity and satisfaction will increase.  An increase in employee satisfaction results in increased employee productivity and company profitability. Possible limitations and future research on the measurement and study of discretionary effort are reviewed.
NR4A2 Expression Patterns in Mouse Models of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Everett Jordan , Gravallese Ellen , Mix Kimberlee S.
Published: September 2020

Arthritis is a group of over 100 musculoskeletal disorders affecting approximately 50 million adults in the US. In an effort to develop new drugs to treat arthritis, we are exploring the function of the orphan nuclear receptor 4A2 (NR4A2), a transcription factor over-expressed in inflamed joints. The transcriptional targets of NR4A2 include angiogenesis factors and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). NR4A2 appears to have a deleterious effect in synoviocytes by promoting tissue degradation, while in chondrocytes it seems to have a protective function. Previous work on human synoviocytes has shown NR4A2 to rise early in response to inflammation, leading us to hypothesize that NR4A2 may be a preliminary mediator of arthritis. To test this hypothesis in vivo, we studied NR4A2 expression patterns in two mouse models of RA: Antigen Induced Arthritis (AIA) and Serum Transfer Arthritis (STA). Tissue sections were obtained from healthy and arthritic mice at early, mid, and late time-points following induction. Joint cross-sections were examined via immunohistochemical staining, and NR4A2 positive cells were quantified in synovial and cartilage tissues. In the AIA model, NR4A2 protein levels peaked in synovium at day 10 of disease (mid stage, 50% positive) and declined later in disease. In cartilage, protein levels reached a maximum at day 8 (early stage, 70%) and subsequently declined as well. In contrast, NR4A2 was not expressed in the STA model, despite apparent joint degradation. NR4A2 has been shown to be expressed in STA arthritis by other researchers, so it is unknown why STA samples did not show NR4A2 expression in our experiment.
A Statistical Analysis of Weight Gain During the Freshman Year of College
Authors: Perrin Elaine , Sellers Travis , Maxwell Lorena Hernandez , Morgan Malachi , Davis Sherod-Malik , Cook Cynthia , Jackson Monica C. , Sellers Kimberly
Published: September 2020

This study examined freshman weight gain and its contributing factors, with the objective being to determine what environmental and societal changes in the college freshman experience associate with weight gain. We designed a 27-question survey which asked participants about their lifestyles during their freshman year in college.  Responses were obtained through social media from 95 student participants across 37 United States colleges and universities.  The resulting data distribution of weight gained among surveyed freshmen was right-skewed with a median weight gain of zero and an interquartile range of 6.5 lbs.  In particular, 52% of the survey respondents reported no weight gain. Accordingly, we modeled the data via a zero-inflated negative binomial regression analysis to investigate what student characteristics prior to and during his/her freshman year are associated with weight gain and likewise determine an estimated probability of no weight gain in the freshman year.  Our study and statistical model found significant associations between freshman weight gain and the choice of major, average amount of nightly sleep, one’s relationship with his/her parents, and gender.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Alters Vascular Reactivity Independent of Elevations in ATP
Authors: Hake Benjamin Matthew , Waggener Cole , Eovaldi Benjamin , Zanetti Claude , Sylvester Francis
Published: September 2020

Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) is a pharmacologic therapy used treat a variety of medical conditions.  The underlying mechanisms of HBOs effect on vascular reactivity are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to record the acute effects of HBO on vascular reactivity and determine the potential role of ATP in mediating these effects.  Porcine mesenteric arteries were dissected and mounted in isolated organ baths to record changes in tension in response to potassium chloride (KCl, 15-60 mM), phenylephrine (PHE, 10-7-10-4 M), and sodium nitroprusside (SNP, 10-7-10-4 M) following a 2-hour exposure to HBO (1.75 ATA).  HBO augmented responses to KCl and PHE compared to control arteries exposed to room air or nitrogen at 1.75 ATA as well as to room air at 1 atm. When compared to the 1 ATA room air control, KCl-induced constriction was significantly increased for the HBO exposure.  Treatment with HBO also augmented vascular responses to PHE and SNP relative to nitrogen, but not ambient air. We hypothesized that HBO increased ATP production in vascular smooth muscle leading to enhanced vascular reactivity.  Consequently, ATP levels were measured in mesenteric arteries but no significant differences in ATP levels were observed regardless of hyperbaric treatment.  Direct measurements of ATPs’ effects on porcine vasculature with and without hyperbaric treatment resulted in no significant findings. These results suggest that HBO alters vascular reactivity independent of elevations in ATP.
Krokodil—Morphine’s Deadly Derivative
Authors: Duron Alyssa
Published: September 2020

Graphically publicized in the media, the use of Krokodil, a heroin-like morphine derivative, has grown in Eastern Europe the last decade.  The popularity of the injectable drug has grown in part due to its inexpensive and simple manufacturing process through the use of codeine tablets.  Krokodil has a similar mechanism of action to morphine, although it is said to be as much as 10 times more potent and is notorious for plaguing its victims with rotting, scale-like skin lesions.  The drug was originally synthesized in hopes of creating a safer, less addictive alternative to morphine, however its impure manufacturing process, toxicity and addiction profile led to abuse and infection among its users.  The use of Krokodil is seen most commonly in the Ukraine and Russia, particularly in Siberia, however use has been recorded in Moscow and 27 other Russian cities, Kiev and 24 other Ukrainian cities, Kazakhstan, and other Kazakh regions bordering Russia.  Use has not yet been confirmed in the United States despite several reports due to the difficulty in isolating and discerning various metabolites in test samples.  Various attempts have been made in Eastern Europe in recent years to halt its production by restricting access to codeine, however without concrete legislation and increased public awareness, it is unclear if the growing Krokodil epidemic will be contained.
Self Damaging Circumstances: An Exploration of Gender and the Vacuum Identity As They Pertain To Self Injury
Authors: Santangelo Joseph Anthony
Published: September 2020

This article explores the vacuum identity as it relates to self injury and the relationship between gender and self injury. The research done in this article is based on in depth interviews from ten participants from a small liberal arts college in the Mid-Atlantic region. Findings suggest that vacuum identity may be directly related to self injury through: 1) forming a new identity as a self injurer; or 2) to deal with the isolation felt by the vacuum identity. Findings also suggest that the link between women and self injury might pertain to the distress women feel over conflicting societal gender definitions and maintaining their gender role in a public domain. This research may contribute to counseling and social work in real-life applications to better understand self injury as a phenomenon.
Disparities in Patient Navigation Resources in Appalachia
Authors: Anderson Nora Curran , Kern Teresa T. , Camacho Fabian , Anderson Roger T. , Ratliff Lindsey A.
Published: September 2020

Background: The study was conducted in support of an R01-funded project, “Patterns of Patient Care in Appalachia”. Most counties within Appalachia are designated as medically underserved, have sparse health care resources and lack integrated care systems. This study determined the extent of geographical differences among American Cancer Society (ACS) patient navigation resources (navigator and/or cancer resource center) in Appalachia. Specifically, this study investigated if there were barriers to access to ACS patient navigation for cancer care in the Appalachia region of PA, KY, OH, and NC. Results: Of the cancer care centers and hospitals in the Appalachia region studied, (n=232), web-based data informed that facilities (n=186, 80.0%) did not have ACS patient navigation resources compared to Appalachia cancer care centers and hospitals with ACS PN services = 20%. KY had fewer ACS PN centers (5) compared to PA (20), with Pittsburgh (Allegheny county) containing a noticeable cluster of ACS PN facilities (N = 6 out of 18 total). KY also had the lowest rates (12.5%) of facilities with ACS patient navigators. North Carolina had the highest rate of facilities with ACS patient navigation services compared to OH, KY, and PA (32.2%). The proportion of facilities with ACS PN were proportionately less for facilities located in non-Metropolitan areas (15%) compared to those located in metropolitan areas (26%, chi-square p = 0.0339). Significance: Two overarching results were identified in this study. Firstly, a large number of cancer care centers in the Appalachian region do not have ACS patient navigator services which enable patients to gain individualized assistance, overcome barriers that hinder access to care and access to information about the illness and services available. Secondly, the lack of standards and curriculum for patient navigators indicates there is considerable variation in level of exposure for each patient navigator.
The Perfect Colonizer: Understanding Alcoholism and its Treatments in Native America through Humanistic Inquiry
Authors: McPherson Kevin , Wakefield Peter
Published: September 2020

According to the Indian Health Services, the rate of alcoholism among Native Americans is six times higher than the U.S. average, while one in every ten Native American deaths are a result of some alcohol related cause. Even before colonization, alcohol and its consumption were depicted in many trading exchanges between early settlers and Native Americans. In present day, alcohol has presented itself as a problem to Native Americans: commonly known by many as the “perfect colonizer” one which “has no conscience [and] shows no remorse for the modern-day holocaust for which it has caused.” The current study seeks to answer the following questions: with Native Americans being intimately tied to alcohol via history, stigma, and disease prevalence, why do Native Americans hold the belief that alcohol is the “perfect colonizer”? And, on the auxiliary, why are modern treatments (e.g., AA’s 12 Step Process) ineffective in treating alcoholism in Native populations? Through various modes of humanistic inquiry, probing philosophy, film, and modern-day intervention techniques, we have found that the model to understanding alcoholism is illustrated via a three-column system, holding up the definition of alcoholism as the “perfect colonizer.”
Enhancing whole grain, fiber, and iron content of pancakes: Impacts on quality attributes and adult receptivity
Authors: Hayes Anna Marie Rose , Howe Sarah Catherine , Burgess-Champoux Teri
Published: September 2020

The 2010 Dietary Guidelines recommend that individuals increase their daily intake of whole grains and fiber, as research has shown these dietary practices help reduce the risk of high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, and diabetes. Iron deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency in the world, and maintaining appropriate levels of iron is of particular concern for women who are capable of becoming pregnant. The purpose of this project was to develop a pancake product which contained enhanced levels of whole grains, fiber, and iron to address recent health concerns. A baseline pancake recipe was modified with soy milk, sorghum flour, and teff grain in varying ratios and preparation methods to formulate the best combination of all three into one pancake product. Sensory panelists from the Department of Nutrition and Exercise Sciences at St. Catherine University evaluated the baseline and enhanced pancakes for appearance, tenderness, taste, texture, and overall likeability on a hedonic scale of 1 (“very poor”) to 7 (“excellent”). Findings indicated a pancake product can achieve acceptable taste while providing 16 percent of the recommended values for both iron (18 g) and dietary fiber (25 mg) for women of child-bearing years. Further research is needed to develop a nutritionally superior pancake with improved appearance through further manipulation of modified ingredients.
The Agency of Iroquois Women through Corn Production
Authors: Perrotto David
Published: September 2020

Native American tribes often used food as a means of currency. Surpluses of food were often bartered with other tribes for food items or supplies. The most popular food that was bartered and traded was corn. Among the Iroquois, it was the woman’s responsibility to grow, harvest, and prepare the corn for both food and ceremonial services for the tribe and trade with others. This paper focuses on the importance of Iroquois women, with particular emphasis on the Mohawk and Seneca tribes. It will explain their role in farming the corn and how they gained agency within their tribes because of their responsibility for tending to the corn crops, an important commodity to the tribe. It will also briefly touch upon the ways that their creation myth was tied to Iroquois views of women and corn. This paper will analyze the firsthand accounts of Father Joseph Lafitau, Henry Hudson, and General John Sullivan. It will also utilize the works of scholars such as of Daniel K. Onion, John P. Hart, Judith K. Brown, Sara Henry Stites, and Arthur C. Parker to link the responsibility of women in corn production to the privileges they received in the tribe and their agency in Iroquois society.
Academic Colleges in the Galilee: Platforms for Inter-Group Relations
Authors: Moskovich Yaffa , Liberman Ido
Published: September 2020

This study examines the changes that took place in intergroup relations between Jewish and Arab students in three Israeli colleges in the northern Galilee, as reflected in common traits and behaviors resulting from their shared undergraduate studies. The study investigated whether and how the joint study experience influenced learning and affected intergroup relations for 461 students at different stages of their undergraduate studies. The students answered a four-part questionnaire on cooperative behavior, personality, and demographic traits, and one open question on personal feelings in the college. Results showed that year of studies was a significant factor in creating social ties with other groups, particularly during the third year when students from all groups were more willing to collaborate on study-based activities. A significant effect of object of evaluation (the group evaluated) was found, but not for most other variables and respondents. We conclude that the changes in social relationships are mainly functional. However, change in the attribution of personality traits may be a long-term process and may not be achievable under one academic roof. Possibly this difficulty stems from the Jewish-Arab conflict that hovers in the background and hinders any significant change in perception of character traits.
Women's Influence on Chrétien de Troyes
Authors: Barney Madeline Dorothy
Published: September 2020

After researching tourbadours, historical women, and the French courts of love, I came to the conclusion that Guinevere is a fictional character in Chrétien de Troyes Lancelot or The Knight of the Cart.
A Closer Look at the Risks vs. Benefits of Kava (Piper methysticum)
Authors: Hussein Anan
Published: September 2020

Abstract If you took a trip to Fiji, the locals would probably welcome you with a drink of Kava. For centuries, the indigenous people of the South Pacific Islands have used the roots of a plant known as Kava. Beyond the use of Kava as a psychoactive substance, it has been incorporated as a cultural drink that is used in many ceremonies. In the late 1990’s Kava use spread quickly in Western countries including Europe, North America, and Australia. It was used as a treatment for anxiety. But just as quickly as it spread, the enthusiasm for it faded, because it was banned or restricted in many Western countries following reports of liver toxicity. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) concern for safety prompted a request for more research on the substance. The issues of safety and efficacy remain more specifically whether the benefits of using Kava outweigh the risks.
Weight Status and Dietary and Physical Activity Behavior Differences Between Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Children in the U.S.
Authors: Ellcessor Beth Louisa
Published: September 2020

Background: Hispanic children have a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity in the United States.  Acculturation of Hispanics living in the U.S. affects dietary intake and physical activity, thus impacting weight status and health problems related to obesity. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in overweight/obesity and dietary and physical activity behaviors between Hispanic and non-Hispanic children living in the United States.  Methods: Using the 2001-2002 Health Behaviors of School-Aged Children Questionnaire, 6th-10th grade student surveys (n=14,817) were analyzed to compare BMI, consumption of fruits, vegetables, and sugar-sweetened beverages, and levels of physical activity between Hispanic and non-Hispanic subjects. Independent t-test, Oneway ANOVA and Pearson’s Chi-Square provided statistical analysis for the descriptive and research variables. Results: Comparing Hispanic and non-Hispanic students, there was no difference in gender or age, but urbanicity, birth country, home language, and education of mother and father had significant differences between Hispanic and non-Hispanic students (p<0.01).  The Hispanic sample had higher rates of overweight and obesity (p<0.001), consumed lower amounts of fruits (p<0.001) and vegetables (p<0.001), consumed higher amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages (p=0.001), and reported being less physically active (p<0.001) compared to non-Hispanic students.  Conclusion: As evidenced by the 2001-2002 HBSC survey, Hispanic children are consuming less fruits and vegetables and more sugar-sweetened beverages, and have lower rates of physical activity compared to non-Hispanic children.  This may be contributing to the higher rates of overweight and obesity found in this population.  These results could be used in the development of childhood obesity interventions involving Hispanic children.
Did Crime Rates Rise After Colorado Legalized Marijuana?
Authors: Pohl Abigail D. , Klockenkemper Samuel W. , Carpinello Lucas G. , Sommers Paul M.
Published: September 2020

Using monthly crime reports from Denver’s Police Department between January 2010 and December 2014, the authors endeavor to show if there was a break in the trend line of seven different crimes (homicide, rape, aggravated assault, burglary, robbery, larceny, and motor vehicle theft) following Colorado’s legalization of marijuana in late 2012.  After adjusting for seasonal components (some crimes tend to be higher in summer months), the trend lines reveal no break for crimes against persons.  But, three of the four trend lines for crimes against property do reveal a significant decrease after legalization.
Assessment of Tobacco Use in Cancer Survivorship Research Among National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Centers or Affiliated Universities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vrana Caroline Joanne , Kern Teresa , Anderson Roger
Published: September 2020

This systematic review of the literature examined the role of tobacco use measurement in studies of cancer survivorship performed in the last ten years by National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Centers or affiliated universities. It was intended to establish the degree to which tobacco use was considered a determining factor. The scientific articles examined for the basis of this review were acquired through PubMed, Google Scholar, references to published papers, and evidence-based papers in the cancer survivorship literature. The exhaustive review found 198 relevant to our aim. Out of the 198 studies examining cancer survivorship found to be published by NCI-designated Cancer Centers or their affiliated hospitals in the last ten years, only 21.2% measured tobacco use as a variable. Given the clear involvement of tobacco use as a risk factor for most cancers, the review determined the variable should be a key metric in epidemiological studies. This indicated the need for increasing inclusion as a key measure in all types of cancer studies, especially those performed by National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers.
Seven Calamities: Insight into the Kara-e Depicted Catastrophes of Japan
Authors: Fatu Sorina Nicole
Published: September 2020

The Seven Calamities (1773, Cleveland Museum of Art) is an emakimono, or Japanese handscroll, created by Nijo Yana during the Edo Period of Japan depicting seven catastrophes that occurred in Japan throughout time. Buddhist Monk Nichiren used the seven calamities found in ancient sutras to explain the disasters agonizing Japan in his time and to stress the importance of following the Buddhist lifestyle. In order to keep the seven calamities at bay, the kings and rulers of Japan were required to recite and teach ancient sutras including the Prajna-Paramita sutra. As the legend tells it, Tathagata — honorific title of a Buddha  — had committed this sutra to the kings and rulers because they had requisite power needed to establish the Law of the sutra, unlike the monks and nuns. Had the sutra not been extensively taught to the populace, the seven calamities would befall upon the land and punish the impudent humans that strayed away from Saddharma — Sanskrit for the Correct Law. In essence, it was up to the kings that Tathagata appointed to ensure order and balance to the lands by reciting the Prajna-Paramita. Each of the calamities were painted on paper with black ink, known as sumi-ink, contain ma, which means negative space, and use minimal color. This paper will dissect the history of the seven disasters of Japan and the reasoning behind their occurrence, analyze the use of Japanese sumi-ink combined with the kara-e Chinese style of art, and will contemplate the artist’s choice of substituting several of the seven original calamities with his or her own rendition and depiction of sequenced actions.
DNA: An Investigation of the Three-Day Strength Guarantee Made by Magnum Nutraceuticals in Regards to their Branch Chained Amino Acid Supplement DNA
Authors: Conley Nicholas
Published: September 2020

This small pilot study used a double-blinded, between subject experimental design in an attempt to investigate the claim made my Magnum Nutraceuticals in regards to their newest supplement, DNA. The manufacturer has a three-day guarantee saying that if an individual takes this supplement for three days then they will experience an increase in strength (more repetitions to their normal weight lifting regiment). Two groups (placebo and experimental) performed three different weight lifting exercises (squats, chin-ups, bench press) while lifting ½ of their body weight per manufacturer’s instructions. The groups met on two different occasions separated by three days in between. The first meeting the participants completed the three aforementioned exercises and were assigned into the placebo or intervention group. After the baseline the participants were instructed to take their pills as directed for the next three days with the third day being a repeat of the three exercises to compare with baseline. Once all 13 participants (N=7 intervention, N=6 placebo) completed the final workout, the results were scored and significant differences were noted in all three exercises after excluding the numbers from the outlier in the experimental group. There was one minor adverse effect (dyspepsia) experienced with the use of the supplement though all ingredients contained within DNA had GRAS status as designated by the FDA. It was concluded that participants taking DNA had a significant increase in strength when compared against the placebo group for squats, bench, and pull-ups. DNA was shown to be reasonably safe and may help athletes increase repetitions when training with a similar exercise regiment.
Assessment of the Research on Problem Solving and Insight
Authors: Volkamer Amanda , Sexton-Radek,PhD Kathy
Published: September 2020

This literature review explores the extent of research on problem solving and insight, as well as the roles of conscious and unconscious processes.  This paper looks at the research on the structure of how insight develops and in general the problem solving process.  Next, the type of problems are examined as to which type of problem solving task work best using either conscious or unconscious processes.  Then, this paper covers research on probabilistic reasoning as this may be an unconscious process and the role of memory and sleep may have in problem solving and insight.  To conclude, there are areas that still need further research but there is strong evidence of an integral role of unconsciousness processes in problem solving.
Establishing Optimal Mental Health Care for Common Mental Disorders in Primary Health Care
Authors: Kennedy Lauren
Published: September 2020

Various definitions of health and mental health exist, however there is a generally persistent inclusion and acknowledgement of the importance of holistic elements such as environment and relationships. Integration of the physical, social, and mental aspects of an individual, through the social determinants of health is an important component in establishing the effective delivery of optimal mental health care. With increasing numbers of collaborative care teams, and mental health promotion strategies, primary health care is increasingly building its capacity to help respond to these holistic mental health care needs, with increased and more purposeful attention to the social determinants of health. Despite these steps in the right direction, a gap continues to exist in the delivery of mental health care and many people continue to struggle in accessing adequate treatment. In order to determine how best to proceed, it is important to understand what mental health is, what mental health care in primary health care looks like, what the existing challenges to the delivery of mental health care in primary health care are, and what other models have been successful in integrating the social determinants of health and mental health into the primary health care system.
Biodiesel Byproduct and Biofuel Synthesizing Clostridium acetobutylicum
Authors: Graves James F.
Published: September 2020

In the manufacture of biodiesel, glycerol is a byproduct.  Acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) fermentation by anaerobe Clostridium acetobutylicum ia also a source of biofuel.  Growth of C. acetobutylicum in the presence of waste biodiesel glycerol byproduct was examined in this investigation.  In cultures containing added glucose or a mixture of glucose and byproduct the optical density (OD) was increased and a positive fermentation reaction was exhibited while results in cultures containing byproduct or pure glycerol were similar to those in the base medium.  The pH of cultures containing glucose markedly decreased. The concentration of glucose dropped to an undetectable level.  All cultures were determined to contain alcohol.  The potential applications for biodiesel glycerol byproduct need to e explored.
For Students on Financial Aid: Does the School's Endowment Matter?
Authors: Cowap Alden I. , Freyre Sarah E. , Indrelie Sean K. , O'Brien Edward D. , Sommers Paul M.
Published: September 2020

Many of the nation’s top fifty liberal arts colleges claim that the needs of their students on financial aid are fully met.  For these elite schools, the authors regress net cost to students on the school’s endowment per capita.  The regression results show that only the richest schools can really claim to meet a student’s full demonstrated need.  Surprisingly, among the nation’s top liberal arts colleges, the school’s endowment (per capita) matters.
Sleep Quality and its Impact on Trait Anxiety and Perceived Stress
Authors: Gray Ezra H.
Published: September 2020

Abstract: One in four college students experience overwhelming sleep problems throughout their college career. Many studies have determined significant connections between sleep quality and issues of mental and emotional health, namely those involving stress and anxiety. In the fall of 2015 this self-administered survey was used to examine the possible impact sleep quality could have on both levels of trait anxiety and levels of perceived stress. Using systematic random sampling, a sample of 416 rooms were selected for participation from a population of 1311 campus residents attending a small liberal arts college in the mid-Atlantic region. Of the 416 selected dorms, ­­280 completed the survey, resulting in a response rate of ­­­67.31%. The results indicate statistically significant relationships between both sleep quality and levels of trait anxiety and sleep quality and levels of perceived stress, supporting both hypotheses.
THE EFFECTS OF THE INTENSITY OF CIGARETTE USE AND ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY ON THE BLOOD LIPID PROFILE OF AN IRISH HIV PERSON
Authors: Slowey Charlie
Published: September 2020

Abstract Context: There are numerous studies on the effects of smoking and antiretroviral use separately on a HIV patient’s blood lipid profile, however there has never been a study conducted that measures the intensity of cigarette use combined with antiretroviral therapy on a patient’s blood lipid profile. Aims: To assess the effects of the intensity of cigarette usage and antiretroviral therapy on a patient’s blood lipid profile. Setting and Design: This cross-sectional study was carried out in a regional HIV clinic in Cork University Hospital between June 2016 and August 2016. Methods: 40 patients were interviewed in order to gather cigarette usage data and patient files were reviewed in order to gather blood lipid profile results and antiretroviral therapy data. Results: There was no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) in the means of cholesterol (4.99 vs 5.47), high-density lipoprotein (1.22 vs 1.07), low-density lipoprotein (3.13 vs 3.03), nor triglycerides (1.54 vs 2.45) in smokers versus non-smokers. Low-density lipoprotein in mild and moderate smokers was increased compared to non-smokers. Conclusions: These results show that smoking combined with nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor use has no significant change in blood lipid measurements when compared to controls.
What makes humans human? a review of important genetic differences between chimpanzees and humans
Authors: Cormier Danielle Taylor , Berry Autumn Brooke , Rhodes Matthew , Copeland Jeffrey
Published: September 2020

What makes humans human?  Genomic comparisons of humans and chimpanzees provide a new tool for addressing this interesting question.  Genetic comparisons show remarkable similarity between chimpanzees and humans; indeed, the human and chimp genome are 96% similar, with only a 1% difference in nucleotide substitutions and a 3% difference in chromosomal insertions and deletions.  But even modest differences in genomes can have profound biological effects.  In this review, we tackle this formidable topic by summarizing the effects of transposon mobility, uniquely human genes and small nucleotide changes in conferring important phenotypic changes from chimpanzee to human.
Compliance of Maternal Health Educational Intervention in Urban Slums in India
Authors: Chandarana Shikha , Zinner Darren
Published: September 2020

India contributes one fifth to the global burden of maternal mortality, which is a mostly preventable health outcome. The government of India and the city legislators of Mumbai have been working to reduce the number of maternal and infant deaths in the urban poor communities by innovative governmental health programs and improving of the healthcare system, yet due to the low female literacy rate of 65% in the nation just population based programs combat only some aspects of the program. The Society for Nutrition, Education and Health Action (SNEHA), a Mumbai based non-profit, aims to work with women in vulnerable communities through one on one home-based educational intervention through local community workers. Literature reviews on educational intervention and health promotion stressed on the success of community health worker programs.This thesis aims to study the factors that lead to maternal compliance or non-compliance to educational intervention by the community workers in SNEHA. This was done through qualitative interviews with a random set of beneficiaries of the SNEHA’s Maternal and Newborn Health promotion program. The beneficiaries were asked questions about compliance of medical check ups, vaccination, and other factors of maternal and infant health. The conclusions of the thesis show that increased maternal compliance is related to better relationships with thecommunity organizers, and the negative perceptions of the public medical providers leads to lower compliance of medical check-ups.
Phenotypic effects of probiotics on Xenopus laevis development
Authors: Van Oosbree Annika M , Kiesow Alyssa M
Published: September 2020

Probiotics supplementation, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacteria, has become increasingly popular as a means to naturally treat minor ailments and attain overall better health.  This research sought to determine whether probiotics L. acidophilus and Bifidobacteria as well as a combination (Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria) had an impact on the development of Xenopus laevis (African clawed frog) embryos.  We used several control and experimental groups per probiotic species.  For experimental groups, each probiotic species (or combination) was isolated and dissolved in dechlorinated distilled water to create a 0.0025% and 0.025% solution.  Embryos were measured/observed to determine presence of abnormalities; collect intraocular, gut, and head measurements; and examine behavior.  After organogenesis, we euthanized embryos to examine the presence of specific species of bacteria using EnteroPluri tubes.  All groups showed similar mortality, morphology, and activity (P > 0.05), except for those treated with Bifidobacteria (P ? 0.05), and in all instances, activity and stage of development were positively correlated (r = 0.38 to 0.69).  Gut bacterial composition was similar between Bifidobacteria and control groups, but gut compositions were different among L. acidophilus and combination (Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria) groups.  All data combine to indicate that Bifidobacteria should be limited or avoided as it contributes to smaller overall embryo size and higher activity levels, while L. acidophilus consumed at a 0.0025% concentration (recommended dosage) is the best option as a probiotic supplement as it provides the benefits associated with this probiotic without adversely impacting the embryo.  We suggest additional research to examine the positive influence of L. acidophilus, as these data suggest its usefulness as a probiotic.
Brains Behind Broadcast Behavior-The Science of British WWII Homefront Propoganda
Authors: Schrader Abigail , Appleford Simon
Published: September 2020

From 1939-1943 Britain’s prime minister, Sir Winston Churchill, was set on persuading the British to continue fighting in WWII, so that Hitler would not be able to subjugate Great Britain, as he had already done with a great majority of Europe. Public support was needed, so the government embarked on a massive propaganda campaign aimed at persuading the British people to do everything necessary to support and aid the war effort. The propaganda took many forms: political rhetoric, music, posters, postcards, advertisements, and newspapers. Together these disparate media represent not just the basis of the British government’s effort to influence public opinion regarding the war effort, but contributed to the establishment of a distinct material culture. The propagandistic material culture was designed and distributed tactically, with the behavioral effects of the people in mind. “We had to go. We had to defend ourselves.  If it hadn’t been for Churchill then, and the way people fought —it was very much in the balance at times —whether we were going to win, because Germany had been banking up on ammunition and planes and ships and things.  We really were against it” (Interview, June 2016, Oxford –a young teen during WWII).
Investigation of Modulus of Elasticity and Surface Electrical Resistivity in High Performance Concrete(HPC) Using Natural Zeolite
Authors: Modha Nidhi , Ghosh Pratanu
Published: September 2020

Due to severe weathering problems in nation’s concrete infrastructures namely bridges and pavements, it has become very important to develop high performance concrete (HPC). HPC generally increases the durability against the chloride induced corrosion as well as long term strength. Currently, a natural pozzolanic cementitious material known as natural zeolite, a crystalline hydrated alumino-silicate processed (volcanic ash) mineral, is being used for enhancing the performance of HPC. The purpose of this study is to investigate long term durability and modulus of elasticity of zeolite based HPC to enhance the performance and serviceability of reinforced concrete bridges and pavements. In this study, several HPC mixtures are prepared by replacing cement with different percentage level of zeolite (10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30%). Different types of binary (Cement + Zeolite) and ternary (Cement + Zeolite + other cementitious material) based concrete mixtures including the control mixture (100% Cement) with water to total cementitious material ratio of 0.4 and 0.44 are made. Two different types of experiments namely modulus of elasticity and corrosion durability investigation (surface electrical resistivity) are conducted on concrete samples at 7, 28, 56 and 91 days. The main purpose of 4-point Wenner Probe resistivity meter is to investigate surface electrical resistivity of concrete which provides indirect indication of chloride induced corrosion. In addition, modulus of elasticity is related to stiffness and strength of concrete and it widely used in design of reinforcement concrete structures. The compressometer is utilized for measurement of modulus of elasticity indirectly through evaluating deformation and strain of concrete samples. Overall, zeolite based concrete mixtures with water to total cementitious material ratio (W/C) at 0.40 provides promising results in terms of modulus of elasticity and durability. Further, substitution of zeolite with Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) in concrete mixtures, will reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emission and promotes sustainability.
A statistical and spatial analysis of chemical contaminants in Cocos Lagoon, Guam
Authors: Robinson Char'Mane , Mason Andrew
Published: September 2020

Cocos Lagoon is located on the southwestern end of the coast of Guam, and contains extensive coral reefs and an array of fish species. Within the Lagoon is a former US Coast Guard LORAN station on Cocos Island. Hazardous materials appear to have been disposed of on land and in near shore waters during the operation of the LORAN station, between the years of 1944 and 1963, exposing surrounding waters, sediment, fish species and humans to these materials. As part of a project to quantify chemical contaminants in Cocos Lagoon, and to address local and agency human health concerns, approximately 190 chemical contaminants were analyzed in sediments from 25 sites, along with 27 fish tissue samples from 16 sites. Higher levels of chemical contaminants were found in fish tissues collected from around Cocos Island, the site of the former LORAN station. Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), for example, were above an EPA recreational fishers’ screening value (SV) in some fish species from around Cocos Island, indicating risk to humans consuming fish from this area. PCBs at high concentrations are known to cause negative effects on resident marine aquatic organisms and human health concerns include cancer. Characterizing contaminant impacts to aquatic marine organisms and possible human health results from this project will provide resource managers with key information needed to make effective decisions for the health of Cocos Lagoon and also gauge the efficacy of restoration activities. The results show high levels of PCBs in the fish species from Coco Lagoon. This indicates that there is a high risk of adverse health effects such as cancer if consumed by humans.
Characteristics of Selected Waste-To-Energy Technologies and Suitability for Oman
Authors: Qazi Wajeeha A. , Abushammala Mohammed F.M.
Published: September 2020

The fast economic development and urbanization caused rapid increase of waste generation worldwide. Oman produced 1.5 million tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) in 2012 which is expected to elevate to 1.89 million tons in 2030. This rapid increase needs to be tackled to reduce the generation rates along with the environmental impacts it imposes. Currently in Oman other than recycling there are no treatment facilities, and therefore dumping waste into the landfill is the only and ultimate way to dispose solid waste. Thus this research aims present the process and specific aspects of Waste-To-Energy (WTE) technologies and determine the suitable technology for Oman depending on its waste composition and characteristics. In conclusion, the waste characteristics shows the potential to set up a WTE technology in Oman which will help to reduce the amount of waste, greenhouse gas emissions, developing and maintaining costs of landfills, and tackle the issue of portable water by using the produced energy for seawater desalination.
RDBMS Current Challenges and Oppurtunities with NoSQL to NewSQL
Authors: Sivakumaran Jeyanthy , Ali Syed Zakir
Published: September 2020

Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS) are designed to manage well-structured data, requiring users to design a schema before storing and querying data with the help of SQL (Structured Query Language). The evolution of database management system undergoes many developments for more than forty years to meet the challenges by modern applications. In this fast Growing science and technological period, where advancements in web technology, mobile devices and sensors (IoT) need to accommodate huge amount of structured and unstructured data, called Big Data. The demand for technologies with large processing and storage requirements are rising enormously. Customized RDBMS has to confront challenges against Big Data’s scalability and performances. To meet these requirements such as volume, variety, velocity and variability, enterprises are adopting alternative technologies like NoSQL and NewSQL. Currently, NewSQL scalability is classified as modern RDBMS which carries NoSQL for OLTP (Online Transaction Processing)   to read as well write data, whereas satisfying the Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, and Durability (ACID) properties of a traditional DB system. Further my research paper introduces NoSQL and its key attributes and NewSQL (NuoDB, VoltDB)
Assessing the Effectiveness of Solar and Wind Energy in Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Azam Mohammed–Hasham , Abushammala Mohammed
Published: September 2020

The Sultanate of Oman is a fast growing region and has fifth largest economy in the GCC regions. The oil and gas sectors are the main promoters of Oman’s economy. The reservoirs of natural resources are insufficient to satisfy for a continuation of the current trends. The electricity sector of Oman mostly depends on natural gas: 97.5% and Diesel: 2.5%.  Renewable energy has no major role in the country’s energy supply despite of having valuable wind and solar resources. This review paper tends to bring forward the current and future renewable plans and situations of solar and wind energy in Sultanate of Oman. Therefore this objective is achieved by carrying out literature review of the importance of the wind and solar sources according to the conditions of Oman and by visiting the existing renewable energy plants.
Development of Sustainable Concrete using Ceramic Waste as Partially Replacement with Cement
Authors: Poloju Kiran Kumar , Darwesh Haitham S. , Tabanaj Mohammed Alaa
Published: September 2020

Nowadays in developed and developing countries, disposal of ceramic waste is becoming one of the major problem. According to varies research done on the ceramic waste, the percentage of waste generated from the production is about 15-30%, further to the waste introduced from the construction field. In addition, reuse or recycle of ceramic waste is negligible. In this research an attempt was done to reuse the ceramic waste in concrete, the cement was partially replaced with the ceramic waste with proportion of 10%, 20% and 30% from the cement weight for M25 grade concrete. The ceramic waste was collected from ceramic factories as well as from construction sites. The results illustrate that the compressive strength of the concrete with ceramic waste is greater than the compressive strength in the conventional concrete. The main advantages of reuse ceramic wastes as a building material are reduce the cost of concrete (economic factor) and minimize environmental impact (environmental factor).  This is one of the alternative method for implementing the sustainable concept in the construction field