Digital Commons Network^™

Using Synchrotron Wide-Angle X-Ray Scattering To Study Collagen Degradation In Second Metacarpal Bones, Zeel Sheth, Misha Romanov, Ruby Schwieger

DePaul Discoveries

The study examines female human second metacarpal (mc2) bones from early medieval cemetery at Greding, Germany, using high-energy Wide-Angle X-ray Scattering (WAXS) at beamline 1-ID of the Advanced Photon Source (APS) at Argonne National Laboratory. Rietveld refinement showed that carbonated apatite lattice parameters did not correlate with estimated age-at-death. For six of the mc2, widths of 00.2 and 00.4 diffraction peaks were substantially narrower than those of a modern (non-diagenetically altered) mc2 and of the other four ancient mc2. The peak width results are interpreted as indicating that four of the ten ancient mc2 retain substantial collagen and six of …

Modifications To The Spiral Array: A Computational Approach To Music Analysis, Rose Bittle

DePaul Discoveries

The Spiral Array is a geometric model of musical tonality and exists as a tool in computer-aided music analysis. The model was first published in 2000 by Elaine Chew, PhD, in her thesis, Towards a Mathematical Model of Tonality. This project aimed to restructure the Spiral Array, limiting user ambiguity and optimizing the application of musical key finding. The existing model defines pitch, chord, and key location to form a series of spirals dependent on a set of flexible weights. In our research we were able to identify potential issues with the pitch definitions themselves and experiment with methods …

Exact Sampling Of The Six-Vertex Model Using Coupling From The Past, Malaeka Amir

DePaul Discoveries

This paper aims to explore the six-vertex model through simulations designed to investigate the behavior of configurations under specific domain wall boundary conditions. To generate random configurations, we employ the Markov Chain Monte Carlo method while addressing the challenge of mixing times by utilizing the Coupling from the Past (CFTP) algorithm. Implemented in Python, our approach leverages CFTP to ensure exact sampling, avoiding the uncertainty of convergence in traditional Monte Carlo methods. We explore the monotonicity property within this framework and prove that it is only maintained by the steps of this algorithm for very particular values of the parameters.

Modified 2-Quinolinones For Photocatalysis: The Fluorescence Quantum Yield (Φf) Of Novel 2-Quinolinone Derivatives, Reggina Moreno Trevino, Graham Griffin

DePaul Discoveries

The photophysical properties of novel 2-quinolinone derivatives were examined to evaluate their potential as photocatalysts using fluorescence and UV-Vis absorbance spectroscopy. The fluorescence quantum yields were determined via the relative comparative method, using target absorbance values at a specific wavelength to prepare solutions and comparing these measurements to the reference molecule carbostyril-124. Molar absorptivity values were also calculated to assess the light absorption properties for each compound. Among the derivatives, PAV-3 presented with the highest molar absorptivity and fluorescence quantum yield values (ε= 15297.3 M-1 cm-1, ΦF= 17.1%), while PAV-5 showed the lowest (ε= 4796.2 M-1 cm-1, ΦF= 2.3%). The …

Race/Ethnicity, Living Arrangements, And Access To Healthcare Among Older Adults With Alzheimer’S Disease In The United States: Multiple Systematic Reviews In Relation To Health Outcomes, Chela Reiss, Grace Vethacke

DePaul Discoveries

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition primarily affecting older adults. It is a growing public health crisis that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. The number of adults aged 65 and older is projected to reach 98.2 million by 2060, leading to a continued rise in the prevalence of AD. Understanding the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes in patients with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) is essential in addressing the disparities within patient care and quality of life. This systematic review examined three socioeconomic factors - race/ethnicity, living arrangements, and access to healthcare - and their related health …

Depaul Discoveries Volume 14 Cover Art, Reggina Moreno Trevino

DePaul Discoveries

No abstract provided.

Va Dent J July, August And September 2025

Virginia Dental Journal

The July–September 2025 issue of the Virginia Dental Journal highlights the continued dedication of the Virginia Dental Association (VDA) to advocacy, education, and professional development. In his message, President Dr. Justin Norbo reflects on his visits across the state, underscoring the importance of peer-to-peer engagement and unity within the tripartite (ADA, VDA, and local components) to protect and strengthen the profession. Editor Dr. Sarah Friend shares a candid narrative of workforce challenges, burnout, and mismanagement in dental practices, calling for proactive involvement in both private practice and organized dentistry to prevent decline. ADA Trustee Dr. James Mercer provides updates on …

Meet The Candidates

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

A Meeting With Senator Tim Kaine On Virginia’S Dental Medicaid Benefit: Our Federal Representatives Want To Hear Our Stories, Laura Settles Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

Dr. Laura Settles participated in a meeting with Senator Tim Kaine to advocate for Virginia’s Medicaid dental benefits, sharing impactful patient stories and highlighting the importance of expanding the Medicaid provider network. She also organized Wythe County’s first Mission of Mercy (MOM) project, addressing critical dental care needs for underserved patients. Senator Kaine pledged to bring these stories to the Senate to protect Medicaid benefits and improve access to essential dental care.

Virginia Board Of Dentistry Meeting Notes June 13, 2025, Ursula Klostermyer Dds, Phd

Virginia Dental Journal

The Virginia Board of Dentistry (BOD) meeting on June 13, 2025, covered topics such as regulations for digital scan technicians, infection control training, licensure pathways for foreign dental graduates, and the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact. Updates were provided on workforce trends, disciplinary actions, and financial health. The meeting emphasized teledentistry protocols, dental assistant training models, and efforts to engage dental students and professionals.

Medical Billing For Dentists: Integrating A Different Tool To Boost Case Acceptance, Tontra Lowe Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

Medical billing for dentists is a powerful tool to boost case acceptance and make comprehensive care more affordable by accessing medical insurance benefits for oral treatments. Proper training and patient education about the oral-systemic link are essential for successful implementation, enabling practices to improve workflows, elevate patient care, and enhance overall health outcomes.

What We Learned: Key Takeaways From Delta Dental And Vda Discussions, Chris Pyle

Virginia Dental Journal

Delta Dental of Virginia collaborated with the Virginia Dental Association to address dentist grievances, leading to policy updates, improved processes, and enhanced support tools. Key changes include extended predetermination validity, revised claims rules, and better coverage for specific treatments. Feedback from dentists continues to shape improvements, supported by the VDA's Dental Insurance Grievance Tracker.

When “Just Sign Here” Is Too Good To Be True!, W. Scott Johnson Esquire

Virginia Dental Journal

Dentists are often pressured into purchasing expensive technology at conferences, with contracts governed by out-of-state laws and high-interest rates. These agreements may include personal guarantees, teaser rates, and restrictions on prepayment, leading to financial risks and potential legal consequences. Dentists are advised to carefully review terms and seek professional counsel before committing.

Tune In: Podcast Industry Continues To Grow, Michaela Mishoe

Virginia Dental Journal

The podcast industry continues to grow, offering diverse content for education and engagement. Health-related podcasts are particularly popular, with platforms like Spotify reporting significant increases in streams. The Virginia Dental Association launched The Fulcrum Podcast in 2025, addressing key dental topics and providing tips for being a successful podcast guest. Additionally, dental practice transitions and sales are highlighted, showcasing opportunities across Virginia and beyond.

Dental Detective Series - Word Search, Zaneta Hamlin Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Through The Looking Glass, Sarah Glass

Virginia Dental Journal

The document discusses three oral pathology cases presented by a dental student, focusing on diagnoses of lateral periodontal cyst (LPC), odontogenic keratocyst (OKC), and unicystic ameloblastoma (UAM). It provides clinical, radiographic, and histopathological features, along with treatment options and recurrence rates for each condition.

Do Orthodontists And Patients Prefer Different Linguistic Resources To Overcome Language Barriers In The Clinical Setting?, Phuong Tran Dds, Bhavna Shroff Dds, M.Dent.Sc, Caroline K. Carrico Ph.D, Steven J. Lindauer Dmd

Virginia Dental Journal

Introduction: This study examines communication methods used by patients and clinicians to overcome language barriers in dental settings, aiming to determine the most preferred and beneficial resource.

Methods: Surveys were distributed to a randomized sample of orthodontists in the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and Spanish-speaking limited English proficient (LEP) patients in Central Virginia. Questions assessed linguistic resources and their impact on visit perception, decision-making, doctor patient relationships, compliance, and satisfaction.

Results: Among 31 providers and 64 patients, bilingual staff members and friends/family members were the most utilized resources. However, both groups selected bilingual staff as the most preferred resource …

Virginia Dentists And Dental Students Unite, Laura Givens

Virginia Dental Journal

Over 1,200 dentists and dental students, including representatives from Virginia, attended the eighth annual ADA Lobby Day in Washington, DC, to advocate for legislative priorities such as fair provider contracts, student loan reform, and community water fluoridation. Virginia's delegation was uniquely featured by ADA News, highlighting their dedication to dentistry and patient care.

Vda Pac Update, Laura Givens

Virginia Dental Journal

The VDA PAC update highlights legislative successes for dentistry in 2025, including expedited licensure pathways, repealing sunset provisions for foreign dental program graduates, and transparency in health insurance payment methods. Contributions are encouraged to meet the PAC's funding goals. Past legislative achievements include advancements in dental insurance transparency, teledentistry, Medicaid reimbursement rates, and workforce mobility.

The Fulcrum Podcast - New Episodes, Shannon Jacobs

Virginia Dental Journal

The Fulcrum Podcast explores diverse topics in dentistry, including practice transitions, dental education, legal considerations for patient reviews, and mental health challenges like burnout. Episodes feature expert insights on dental practice ownership, workforce development, social media reviews, and strategies for managing stress and fostering supportive office cultures.

2025 Virginia Dental Showcase - Event Details

Virginia Dental Journal

The 2025 Virginia Dental Showcase will take place on September 26-27, 2025, at Hilton Norfolk The Main in Norfolk, VA. This premier event for dental professionals features dynamic speakers, hands-on workshops, CE courses, an exhibit hall, networking opportunities, and receptions. Registration fees vary by attendee type, with early bird discounts available until July 31. The event includes access to CE courses, receptions, coffee breaks, boxed lunches, and a Membership Party. Parking and transportation options are provided, including on-site parking, nearby garages, and public transit. Exhibitors and sponsors will showcase the latest dental products and services.

Dental Ai Roundup, Paul Supan Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The Virginia Dental Association (VDA) has taken a proactive stance on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in dentistry, emphasizing ethical use, patient privacy, and the importance of licensed dentists maintaining accountability for clinical decisions. The newly formed Artificial Intelligence Resource Committee (AIRC) aims to provide updates on AI developments and address challenges such as corporate influence, insurance misuse, and unethical practices. The Dental-AI Roundup column will serve as a platform to inform the dental community about AI advancements and emerging threats to traditional private practice dentistry.

The Drill, July 2025, Ryan Dunn

Virginia Dental Journal

In the inaugural episode of The Drill, Ryan Dunn, CEO of the Virginia Dental Association (VDA), provides a concise update on the latest activities and initiatives. The episode covers three key areas from the VDA's strategic plan: powerful advocacy, professional development, and practice success. Dunn discusses the workforce challenges, including a shortage of dental hygienists, and highlights efforts such as the new Richmond hygiene school opening in 2026. Other topics include the introduction of an affiliate membership program for dental office staff and the D.I.G. Tracker for monitoring dental insurance grievances. Listeners are encouraged to stay informed and share the …

Focused Leadership, Transparent Communication, A Stronger Future Together, James Mercer Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The ADA is undergoing significant changes under Interim Executive Director Dr. Elizabeth Shapiro, focusing on leadership transition, transparency, financial sustainability, and operational improvements. Key initiatives include the implementation of a new Association Management Software (AMS), financial recovery measures, and the decision to sunset SmileCon as the annual meeting after 2025. The ADA is committed to enhancing communication, stabilizing operations, and exploring new meeting models to better serve its members.

Cleanings And Conundrums, Sarah Friend Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The document highlights the challenges faced by an associate dentist in a poorly managed dental practice, including workforce shortages, unprofessional behavior, and lack of support from management. It emphasizes the importance of proactive engagement in solving systemic issues within dentistry and introduces the SafeHaven program as a resource for addressing burnout and mental health concerns among healthcare professionals.

No Off-Season For The Vda, Justin Norbo Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

Dr. Justin Norbo, President of the Virginia Dental Association (VDA), reflects on his year of leadership, emphasizing the importance of member engagement and the unified strength of the tripartite structure (ADA, VDA, and component societies). He likens the profession to a family unit, urging members to stay involved to protect and advance dentistry. He highlights his visits to various component societies and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to serve, encouraging continued collaboration and participation.

From Adjustment To Transformation: Applying An Evidence-Based Figure-8 Model To Guide Students Through Transformation Before, During, And After Study Abroad, Susan L. Ross, Lily A. House-Peters, Alison R. Holmes

csuglobalaction

The 23-campus California State University (CSU) system has an excellent record of sending students abroad and remains a champion of this high impact practice. Despite system-wide policies and Executive Orders that include requirements to promote pre-departure information sessions and support for returning students - gaps remain. This research argues that the popular models of culture adjustment no longer adequately frame the processes that students experience before, during, and after transformative (and potentially traumatic) study abroad. This is particularly the case for BIPOC, First Gen, undocumented/DACA, URM, and LGBTQ+ students who are increasingly represented in study abroad cohorts. The authors therefore …

Stock Redemptions From Estates And Trusts—Continued Confusion, Edward J. Schnee

Tax Adviser

No abstract provided.

Partnership At-Risk Rules After The ’78 Revenue Act, James E. Smith

Tax Adviser

No abstract provided.

Life Of Moo Deng, The Internet Sensation Pygmy Hippopotamus: An Overview Of The Biology And Conservation Breeding Program In Thailand, Ampika Thongphakdee, Atthapon Nundee, Umaporn Maikeaw, Narongwit Chodchoy, Chainarong Punkong, Kaywalee Chatdarong

The Thai Journal of Veterinary Medicine

The hippopotamus, commonly known as the hippo, is classified into two extant species: the common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) and the pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis). Pygmy hippos are fascinating creatures native to the forests and swamps of West Africa. Their survival is increasingly threatened by habitat loss resulting from agricultural expansion and urban development. As the population declines, zoological institutions play a crucial role in conservation by acting as genetic reservoirs and promoting public awareness of wildlife and environmental protection. “Moo Deng”, a pygmy hippo, whose name in Thai has gained international recognition, represents a notable success …