Digital Commons Network^™

Therapeutic Potential Of Astrocyte-Derived Extracellular Vesicles In Mitigating Cytotoxicity And Transcriptome Changes In Human Brain Endothelial Cells, Ruth Juliana Stewart

Doctoral Dissertations

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a major role in cell-to-cell communication via the horizontal transfer of RNA, DNA, proteins, and lipids that affect the physiological response of the recipient cells. Astrocytes are a type of glial cell that exerts a protective effect on neurons and brain endothelial cells. The astrocytes and the endothelial cells form the blood-brain barrier. Due to their nano-size and non-complex structure, EVs can efficiently cross the blood-brain barrier. This study investigated and assessed the impact of EVs on reducing oxidative DNA damage in human brain endothelial cells (HBECs). The protective potential of astrocyte-derived EVs was determined by …

Measurement Of Multi-Jet Ratios In The Atlas Experiment, Zahra Farazpay

Doctoral Dissertations

This dissertation presents a comprehensive study of multi-jet cross-section ratios using proton-proton collision data collected by the ATLAS detector during Run 2 of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at a center-of-mass energy of √ s = 13TeV. By examining these ratios across different energy scales, the analysis provides valuable insights into the running of the strong coupling constant, αs, a fundamental parameter in Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) that dictates the strength of the strong interaction. The running of αs—its variation with energy—is crucial for understanding QCD, yet it remains one of the least precisely known aspects of the theory. In this …

Machine Learning-Driven Process Analysis And Optimization In Solid-State Welding And Fusion-Based Additive Manufacturing, Radif Uddin Ahmed

Master's Theses

In the modern era of advanced manufacturing, optimizing process parameters is pivotal in ensuring the quality and reliability of sophisticated component fabrication. This study presents a novel, data-driven approach to parameter optimization in two cutting-edge manufacturing techniques: Friction Stir Welding (FSW) and Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). By leveraging machine learning methodologies, this research addresses the critical challenge of efficiently determining optimal process parameters, a task traditionally relying on time-consuming and resource-intensive trial-and-error methods. This study will lead to a robust data-driven framework for process analysis of more advanced manufacturing techniques like the Additive Friction Stir Deposition (AFSD) process. Friction …

Global, Regional, And National Stillbirths At 20 Weeks' Gestation Or Longer In 204 Countries And Territories, 1990–2021: Findings From The Global Burden Of Disease Study 2021, Gbd 2021 Global Stillbirths Collaborators, Veincent Christian Pepito

Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health Publications

Background

Stillbirth is a devastating and often avoidable adverse pregnancy outcome. Monitoring stillbirth levels and trends—in a comprehensive manner that leaves no one uncounted—is imperative for continuing progress in pregnancy loss reduction. This analysis, completed as part of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021, methodically accounted for different stillbirth definitions with the aim of comprehensively estimating all stillbirths at 20 weeks or longer for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2021.

Methods

We extracted data on stillbirths from 11 412 sources across 185 of 204 countries and territories, including 234 surveys, 231 published …

Effect Of Workload And Trust On Automation Levels In Human-Robot Collaboration, Abhiram Maddula

LSU Master's Theses

Automation is becoming increasingly common in manufacturing and assembly plants. The future lies in hybrid workspaces where the strengths of humans and robots complement each other, with robots excelling in precision, speed, and strength, and humans excelling in creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex decision-making. Collaborative robots can foster a more efficient and productive work environment by bridging the gap between human and machine capabilities. This study examines how semi-automated and automated modes impact human-robot collaboration, focusing on mental workload, trust, and task performance.

In this experiment, 58 participants performed a primary task alongside a collaborative robot assembling a miniature lamppost …

Empathy From Artificial Intelligence Therapists And Human Therapists, Ruth Zeller

Senior Honors Theses

In response to the constantly evolving daily pressures in society, various forms of Artificial Intelligence (AI) are currently in the developmental stages. These AI systems are specifically designed to cater to the emerging needs for mental health services. This is a burgeoning area of research and development. Studies examining AI therapy have found that client use of these services has successfully promoted healthy lifestyles. However, caution should be exercised when considering AI as a therapist, as human-chatbot relationships may lack essential components present in human relationships. Empathy, a crucial aspect of therapy, is a key focus of the present study. …

Nusap4 Regulates Chromosome Segregation In Trypanosoma Brucei By Promoting Bipolar Spindle Assembly, Qing Zhou, Ziyin Li

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Faithful chromosome segregation in eukaryotes requires the assembly of a bipolar spindle and the faithful attachment of kinetochores to spindle microtubules, which are regulated by various spindle-associated proteins (SAPs) that play distinct functions in regulating spindle dynamics and microtubule-kinetochore attachment. The protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei employs evolutionarily conserved and kinetoplastid-specific proteins, including some kinetoplastid-specific nucleus- and spindle-associated proteins (NuSAPs), to regulate chromosome segregation. Here, we characterized NuSAP4 and its functional interplay with diverse SAPs in promoting chromosome segregation in T. brucei. NuSAP4 associates with the spindle during mitosis and concentrates at spindle poles where it interacts with SPB1 and MAP103. …

Transformative Interactions: Chatgpt’S Role In Facilitating Professional Development Among Vietnamese English As A Foreign Language Teachers, Thi Thuy Tran, Trut Thuy Pham, Thanh Thao Le

Higher Learning Research Communications

Objective: This study delved into the integration of ChatGPT as a medium for English teacher professional development among Vietnamese English as Foreign Language (EFL) teachers.

Methods: Rooted in the Constructivist Learning Theory and the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework, the qualitative exploration employed semi-structured interviews with nine teachers categorized into novice, mid-career, and near-end career stages. The objective was to understand teacher experiences, perceptions, and insights regarding the role of ChatGPT in their professional journey.

Results: Key findings illuminated that ChatGPT facilitated enhanced personalized learning, bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and its practical application, and even indirectly spurred …

Virtual Culinary Nutrition Education: Youth And Parent/Guardian Acceptability Of The Switch Cooking School, Summer Mcvicker, Laura Paulsen, Anna Mlodzik, Allison Henry, Maren Wolff

Journal of Extension

Face-to-face cooking programs can positively impact food choices, fruit and vegetable intake, and cooking self-efficacy; however, little is known about virtual cooking programs. We studied the perceived acceptability of the virtual SWITCH Cooking School (SCS). Four monthly cooking classes were offered for each participating school. Classes included nutrition education, food safety, and cooking demonstrations. Feedback was collected through post-class surveys and focus groups with parent/guardian and youth participants. Families valued the convenience of the virtual delivery and were interested in participating again. Future considerations for the SCS include incorporating additional variety of culinary skills and modifying registration methods.

Extension Education For Real Estate Professionals: Teaching Regulations And Sharing Resources That Protect Water Quality And Property Values, Linda Patterson, Shari Halik, Kristine F. Stepenuck

Journal of Extension

Real estate professionals can be an important source of information for home buyers and sellers about regulations and practices that protect water quality and properties from environmental damage. Lake Champlain Sea Grant (LCSG) Extension identified a deficit in real estate education covering these topics for real estate professionals. Accredited real estate workshops were initially developed by LCSG Extension and Vermont Agency of Natural Resources specialists. The program was later expanded to New York. Six-month follow-up surveys indicated that the majority of participants continued to use knowledge and tools gained in the workshops. Suggestions for replicating this program elsewhere are provided.

The Farmer Stress Production Meeting Model: Acceptability And Feasibility Of An Intervention, Anna Scheyett, Andrea Scarrow, Jennifer Dunn, Stephanie Hollifield, Justin Shealey, Brian Hayes

Journal of Extension

Farmers experience high stress levels, but are often reluctant to participate in mental health-specific programming. We tested providing stress supports to farmers by embedding information and resources within existing Extension production meetings. During meetings, farmers were offered blood pressure screenings where providers would also discuss stress; were offered an information packet on stress and health, and listened to a brief talk from a therapist with local roots. Farmers accepted screenings and resources, and several later contacted the therapist. Extension agents, initially cautious about addressing the topic of farmer stress, expressed greater confidence in talking about the issue after these meetings.

Sterilisation Efficiency Of Dental Burs And Bacterial Species Investigation In Dental Clinics: Comparison Study, Ghsaq M. Alhamdani, Bent Alhuda Hussein Neamah, Azal H Al-Masoody

Maaen Journal for Medical Sciences

In a regular dental facility, the correct management of the pre-cleaning and sterilisation phases plays a significant role in the good management of personnel and instruments. Thorough cleaning, disinfection and sterilisation are critical in dental clinics as most of instruments are reusable in daily practice. However, the sterilisation process of some equipment is difficult because of their complex structure, small size and presence of surface details. One of the most potent devices for cross-infection in dental clinics is a dental bur, present in a variety of materials, shapes and sizes with highly complex surface features. Evidence suggests transmission of viruses …

The Big Data Gap: Asymmetric Information In The Ophthalmology Residency Match Process And The Argument For Transparent Residency Data, Stephen Adam Le Breton, Shilpa Desai

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Background

The ophthalmology match is an important step for graduating medical students that defines their future career. Residency programs demonstrate significant variability due to differences in size, location, research output, subspecialty exposure, surgical case load, and alumni fellowship/practice placement. Despite the importance of informed decision-making, applicants often find limited, inconsistent information about potential programs.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to characterize and identify gaps in the information available to residents in the 2022 to 2023 Match.

Methods

The SFMatch Web site was reviewed to identify programs included as well as characteristics cited on each program's webpage. Program webpages …

Gender Representation On North American Ophthalmology Societies' Governance Boards, Mostafa Bondok, Rishika Selvakumar, Muhammad Khan, Mohamed S. Bondok, Anne Xuan-Lan Nguyen, Edsel Ing, Christine Law

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Purpose

We examined the gender distribution and academic productivity of North American ophthalmology societies' board members.

Methods

Cross-sectional and retrospective study of board members on American and Canadian ophthalmology societies. In December 2022, data was gathered from society webpages, online archives, and the Scopus database for publication information.

Results

Of the identified 73 board presidents and 876 other board members, 49 (67.1%) board presidents were men and 24 (32.9%) were women, while 554 (63.2%) other board members were men and 322 (36.8%) were women (p = 0.53). Overall, board members who were men had significantly higher median h-indexes (men vs. …

Perspectives Of Resident And Attending Ophthalmologists On Common Ethical Dilemmas In Research, Sarah C. Miller, Brittany C. Tsou, Michael J. Fliotsos, Gary L. Legault, Jiangxia Wang, Todd J. Mondzelewski, Patrick D. Munson, Alice Lorch, Laura K. Green, Won I. Kim, Ron W. Pelton, Fasika A. Woreta, Grant A. Justin

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Purpose

To assess how resident and attending ophthalmologists perceive and evaluate ethically controversial scenarios regarding mentorship, authorship, and ethics compliance that may occur during research involving residents.

Methods

An online survey was developed and contained 14 controversial vignettes based on common research scenarios that can occur when conducting research with trainees. The scenarios were designed to capture issues regarding three themes: mentorship, authorship, and compliance with ethical guidelines. Resident and attending ophthalmologists at eight military and civilian academic residency programs in the United States were invited to participate. Respondents used a Likert scale to assess the ethicality of the situations …

Nurse Practitioner Students' Knowledge Assessment And Perceived Preparedness To Triage Ophthalmology Complaints In A Primary Care Setting: An Educational Intervention, Grace R. Reilly, Nancy G. Russell, Kimberly Mciltrot, Stephen D. Sisson, Adrienne W. Scott

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Purpose

In this proof-of-concept pilot study, we aimed to increase nurse practitioner (NP) student knowledge of ophthalmology to prepare NPs for encounters in primary care settings. The Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) and the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) endorse core knowledge that medical students should achieve. We assess the effectiveness of an innovative ophthalmologist-led curriculum based on these competencies tailored to issues NPs encounter in primary care.

Methods Johns Hopkins University NP students enrolled in a pre–post-cohort study and educational intervention. The didactic program was developed according to AUPO and AAO core ophthalmology content for medical students …

An Ophthalmology Virtual Externship During The Covid-19 Pandemic: A Pilot Study, Karim Dirani, Jahan Tajran, Komalpreet Tur, Annmarie Craig, Ryan L. Freedman, Niyaz Uddin, Chaesik Kim, Bing X. Ross, Mark S. Juzych, Anju Goyal

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Background

The evolution of medical school curricula, characterized by truncated preclinical periods and reduced emphasis on ophthalmology, presents formidable obstacles to early exposure for aspiring medical students. The constraints imposed by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic further exacerbated the limitations on opportunities, compelling the implementation of innovative initiatives aimed at augmenting students' ophthalmology education through virtual means.

Purpose

This article assesses the impact of an Ophthalmology Virtual Externship (OVE) on medical students' knowledge, interest, confidence, and seeking mentorship in ophthalmology.

Materials and Methods

A total of 76 students voluntarily participated in the program. The OVE encompassed four virtual sessions, facilitated …

Improved Performance Of Chatgpt-4 On The Okap Examination: A Comparative Study With Chatgpt-3.5, Sean Teebagy, Lauren Colwell, Emma Wood, Antonio Yaghy, Misha Faustina

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Introduction

This study aims to evaluate the performance of ChatGPT-4, an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) language model, on the Ophthalmology Knowledge Assessment Program (OKAP) examination compared to its predecessor, ChatGPT-3.5.

Methods

Both models were tested on 180 OKAP practice questions covering various ophthalmology subject categories.

Results

ChatGPT-4 significantly outperformed ChatGPT-3.5 (81% vs. 57%; p<0.001), indicating improvements in medical knowledge assessment.

Discussion

The superior performance of ChatGPT-4 suggests potential applicability in ophthalmologic education and clinical decision support systems. Future research should focus on refining AI models, ensuring a balanced representation of fundamental and specialized knowledge, and determining the optimal method of integrating AI into medical education and …

Evaluation Of An Instructional Video And Simulation Model For Teaching Slit Lamp Examination To Medical Students, Sophia Collis, Madeline Yung, Neeti Parikh

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Purpose

This article assesses the efficacy of an instructional video and model eye simulation for teaching slit lamp exam to medical students as compared to traditional preceptor teaching.

Methods

First through 4th year students from the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine were recruited via email to participate in the study. Students were randomized into two groups. The experimental “model eye” group watched an instructional video on slit lamp exam, spent 10 minutes practicing on the model eye, then practiced for 25 minutes with a student partner. The control “preceptor teaching” group received 25 minutes of in-person preceptor …

Postoperative Complications Of True Dropless Cataract Surgery Versus Standard Topical Drops, Evan K. Wotipka, Alex J. Wright, James Z. Fan, David Fuhriman, Alice Z. Chuang, Grace C. Lindhorst, Robert M. Feldman, Eric L. Crowell

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Purpose

Compare postoperative outcomes in cataract surgery between eyes with standard drop regimen versus dropless protocol by residents.

Design

Retrospective cohort study between April 1, 2018 and March 31, 2020.

Methods

The study was performed at Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital in Houston, Harris County, Texas. A total of 547 eyes (234 dropless vs. 313 standard) with phacoemulsification cataract surgery and minimum of 1-month follow-up with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were included. Dropless received 40 mg sub-Tenon's triamcinolone and intracameral moxifloxacin. Patients were followed at postoperative day 1 (POD1), week 1 (POW1), and month 1 (POM1). Postoperative rate of BCVA …

Ophthalmic Education: The Top 100 Cited Articles In Ophthalmology Journals, Asher Khan, Neal Rangu, Chanon Thanitcul, Kamran M. Riaz, Fasika K. Woreta

Journal of Academic Ophthalmology

Purpose

To identify the top 100 (T100) cited articles on ophthalmic education and examine trends and areas of focus in ophthalmic education.

Methods

A literature search was conducted for articles published between 2011 and 2021 related to ophthalmic education within ophthalmology journals using the ISI Web of Science Core Collection database. The search was performed in June 2022 and was conducted using the search phrase ([educat* OR teach* OR instruct* OR train* OR “medical student*” OR residen* OR fellow* OR undergrad* OR postgrad* OR “faculty” OR “attending”] AND *ophthalm*). Results were analyzed using VOSviewer v.1.6.18 and statistical analysis was performed …

Vol. 46, No. 5/6 - Whole No. 326/327, Ginger Mcelwee

Mythprint

Mythprint is the monthly bulletin of the Mythopoeic Society, a nonprofit educational organization devoted to the study, discussion, and enjoyment of myth and fantasy literature, especially the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Charles Williams. To promote these interests, the Society publishes three magazines, maintains a World Wide Web site, and sponsors the annual Mythopoeic Conference and awards for fiction and scholarship, as well as local and written discussion groups.

Vol. 46, No. 1/2 - Whole No. 322/323, Ginger Mcelwee

Mythprint

Mythprint is the monthly bulletin of the Mythopoeic Society, a nonprofit educational organization devoted to the study, discussion, and enjoyment of myth and fantasy literature, especially the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Charles Williams. To promote these interests, the Society publishes three magazines, maintains a World Wide Web site, and sponsors the annual Mythopoeic Conference and awards for fiction and scholarship, as well as local and written discussion groups.

Up In Smoke: Indigenous Techniques To Combat Climate Change And Increase Biodiversity, Brad Kerry

Runkle Woods Symposia

Brad Kerry explores how Indigenous land management practices—particularly the use of prescribed fire—can be reintroduced to restore the Runkle Woods to its pre-colonial ecological state. Drawing on archaeological evidence, historical tree surveys, and ecological data, the presentation highlights how periodic, low-intensity fires historically maintained the forest’s biodiversity, promoted fire-adapted species like oak and hickory, and suppressed invasive plants. Kerry advocates for carefully planned, small-scale burns to combat "mesophication"—a shift toward shade-tolerant, fire-averse species—while increasing forest resilience to drought, invasive species, and climate change. The presentation underscores the ecological benefits of fire and outlines practical considerations for reintroducing controlled burns as …

Tarrant County Archeology Society Letter, North Texas Archeological Society

North Texas Archeological Society Records

Letter written in response to the Chambers Site discoveries, including the mistakes made during excavation.

The Chambers Site, Nolan E. Preston, Marvin Glasgow

North Texas Archeological Society Records

A revision of the report about the Chambers Site, featuring corrections and annotations marking mistakes and changes.

Vol. 44, No. 11 - Whole No. 308, Eleanor M. Farrell

Mythprint

Mythprint is the monthly bulletin of the Mythopoeic Society, a nonprofit educational organization devoted to the study, discussion, and enjoyment of myth and fantasy literature, especially the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Charles Williams. To promote these interests, the Society publishes three magazines, maintains a World Wide Web site, and sponsors the annual Mythopoeic Conference and awards for fiction and scholarship, as well as local and written discussion groups.

Vol. 44, No. 6/7 - Whole No. 303/304, Eleanor M. Farrell

Mythprint

Mythprint is the monthly bulletin of the Mythopoeic Society, a nonprofit educational organization devoted to the study, discussion, and enjoyment of myth and fantasy literature, especially the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Charles Williams. To promote these interests, the Society publishes three magazines, maintains a World Wide Web site, and sponsors the annual Mythopoeic Conference and awards for fiction and scholarship, as well as local and written discussion groups.

Vol. 44, No. 5 - Whole No. 302, Eleanor M. Farrell

Mythprint

Mythprint is the monthly bulletin of the Mythopoeic Society, a nonprofit educational organization devoted to the study, discussion, and enjoyment of myth and fantasy literature, especially the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Charles Williams. To promote these interests, the Society publishes three magazines, maintains a World Wide Web site, and sponsors the annual Mythopoeic Conference and awards for fiction and scholarship, as well as local and written discussion groups.

Can Lower-Body Strength And Power Alleviate Load Carriage Performance Decrements (Tactical Deficit) In Simulated Law Enforcement Job Tasks?, Ashley M. Bloodgood, Joseph Dulla, Megan Thompson, Matthew R. Moreno, Robin (Rob) Marc Orr, J. Jay Dawes, Robert G. Lockie

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(4): 1577-1594, 2024. Law enforcement agencies typically have recruits complete fitness assessments without personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE negatively impacts performance. Greater strength and power could alleviate performance decrements due to the extra load, termed the tactical deficit (TD). The purpose of this study was to examine whether lower-body strength or power related to the TD in civilians performing police tasks. Twenty participants (12 men, 8 women) completed baseline tests, including: standing broad jump (SBJ); relative SBJ; absolute and relative isometric leg/back dynamometer (LBD) and one-repetition maximum hexagonal bar deadlift (HBD). In two other sessions, …