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Economic Behavior and Policy Distortions: Evidence from Firms and Households
Get PDFIn Chapter 1, I reopen the question of whether U.S. firms experience effective tax decreases directly resulting from federal lobbying expenditures by introducing more rigorous causal-inference testing. I first model lobbying as a productive input for the legislator, affecting firm tax outcomes by influencing the share of scarce legislative attention afforded to industry tax priorities. Using multi-industry, firm-level data from 2007 to 2022, I exploit percentage changes in non-industry lobbying as a proxy for political competition facing firms through a novel application of Bartik, shift-share instrumental variable estimation and two-stage residual inclusion. Effects of induced firm lobbying shifts on reported depreciation/amortization and associations with shifts on unrecognized tax benefits first suggest lobbying enables more aggressive tax positioning. Elasticities for corporate income taxes, paid and current, to competition-induced lobbying shifts are estimated as -0.29 to -0.57 and -0.21 to -0.75 respectively across specifications. Consistent with formal theoretical prediction, lower revenue firms reveal significantly stronger negative responsiveness to non-industry lobbying competitive pressure compared to higher revenue firms. Results clarify the process and size of cost advantages obtained outside of conventional competition across industries with potential implications for public finance, economic growth, and future modeling.
In Chapter 2, I investigate electric distribution utility organization with a particular interest in regional overlaps of regulator authority. Overlapping regulation of municipal electric utilities with disjoint principals determining price and investment separately may facilitate additional rents to firms compared to traditionally vertically integrated utilities under a single primary regulator, or utilities with degrees of competition breaking up vertical integration. Leveraging Texas household data from 2005 to 2022, I determine evidence of regional regulatory inefficiency in Texas panhandle electric utility operation consistent with information asymmetry between fragmented and overlapping regulators. Exploiting a 2010 acquisition of electrical distribution assets in Lubbock, Texas by Lubbock Power & Light as a candidate for hypothesized selection, I employ multiple difference-in-differences specifications and estimate predicted increases in household electric billing in excess of acquisition costs. Under conservative assumptions, the permitted regulatory shift in Lubbock in 2010 increased aggregate annual electric utility costs for residential consumers by an estimated 14,834,879 annually for customers of LP&L alone, or 192,853,420 from 2010 to 2022. Results imply 10% higher household electric billing on average, with non-negligible implications for adjacent outcomes, including probabilities of mortgage default/prepayment.
In Chapter 3, I contribute public health policy analysis and reaffirm the importance of measuring adjacent outcomes to investigate unintended policy consequences. Sexually transmitted infection and treatment in particular pose costly public health challenges in the United States and worldwide and have faced additional complication since the COVID-19 pandemic. Using regional STI diagnosis data from the Tennessee Department of Health and Google COVID-19 Mobility data, I test competing hypotheses in the health science literature explaining how the pandemic environment affected STI transmission and treatment. Applying time series structural break methodology on STI cases statewide, and exploiting the timing of Tennessee stay-at-home orders on regional mobility patterns in a IV-Poisson estimation approach, I first estimate 90.3 additional weekly statewide cases of Gonorrhea in Tennessee attributable to the pandemic from July 2020 to December 2021, and establish recoveries in diagnoses rates relative to stable pre-pandemic trends or lower for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea diagnoses, but not for Syphilis or HIV. Negative case count effects from stay-at-home order mobility changes on lagged diagnosis rates are estimated, providing evidence that increases later in pandemic are better explained by disruptions to STI public health services rather than by pandemic-induced behavioral changes affecting STI transmission. Results offer more detailed understanding of pandemic policy population health effects with discussed implications for understanding future public health outcomes and treatment equity for more vulnerable populations
Systematic Methodologies for Magnetic Materials Design
Get PDFUnderstanding and predicting the magnetic behavior of materials from first principles is one of the central challenges in condensed matter physics. This dissertation presents a systematic framework that bridges ab initio calculations, many-body physics, and effective spin models to analyze magnetic materials in particular, but also more general quantum systems. Starting from the electron many-body Hamiltonian and the second quantization formalism, we derive Density Functional Theory (DFT) and explain how magnetic properties emerge from exchange interactions and can be interpreted as perturbations to the magnetization density. To capture these effects efficiently, we construct Heisenberg models from first principles using the Magnetic Force Theorem (MFT), which relates small variations in Kohn–Sham eigenvalues to magnetic exchange parameters. The combination of MFT and the Heisenberg model offers a computationally tractable approach to the many-body problem without compromising accuracy. However, it poses challenges due to assumptions of fixed localized spins, homogeneous rotations, and prior knowledge of the magnetic ground state. To address these limitations, we develop a self-consistent workflow based on linear spin-wave theory (LSWT) to identify stable spin configurations and predict the magnetic ground state. We also introduce a ligand downfolding procedure that systematically corrects for the limitations of MFT in systems with significant hybridization, addressing the ambiguities of magnetic region definitions and rotational homogeneity. We demonstrate the accuracy of these methods across a diverse set of transition metal compounds, showing agreement with experimental magnetic structures and spin-wave spectra measured by neutron scattering. Finally, we explore a deep learning–aided quantum computing approach to the many-body problem. We design a neural network architecture that learns to predict variational ansätze for quantum algorithms, enabling fast and generalizable solutions to electronic structure calculations. Together, these contributions advance a comprehensive strategy for magnetic materials design and quantum system modeling grounded in quantum theory and numerical methods
Role of Interpretation Bias Related to Pain in a Dental Setting
No full textStudies of interpretation bias related to pain have consistently shown that patients with pain are more likely to interpret ambiguous stimuli as related to pain than healthy control participants. This phenomenon is associated with pain and related outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and avoidance behaviors, suggesting a potential target in pain management. This study aimed to examine whether the association between interpretation bias, pain, and emotional status can be replicated in a dental care population. The relation of interpretation bias to pain experience was tested in a naturalistic anxiety and pain-provoking setting (i.e., root canal treatment, RCT). A total of 82 participants were recruited from the Endodontics Clinic at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Participants completed questionnaires assessing their pain, depression, anxiety, fear of pain, dental avoidance, dental fear/anxiety, and interpretation bias. In addition, participants completed assessments about their threat expectations about the upcoming RCT and pain intensity during the RCT. Pain-related interpretation bias was positively associated with negative emotions, including fear of pain, depression, and anxiety. Although interpretation bias related to pain was not significantly related to threat expectation and pain intensity during the RCT, dental fear/anxiety, which could be indirectly affected by interpretation bias, was found to influence RCT-related pain experiences. These results imply that interpretation bias may play a role in patients’ experience during dental procedures, and that interventions on interpretation bias related to pain in dental care settings have the potential to address dental care-related stress and avoidance behaviors
DEVELOPING A SIMPLIFIED METHOD OF MEASURING ULTRAFINE PARTICULATE MATTER DOSE CONCENTRATIONS FOR DIESEL EMISSIONS
No full textAbstract
Developing a Simplified Method of Measuring Ultrafine Particulate Matter Dose
Concentrations for Diesel Emissions
Ultra-fine particulate matter (UFP), particularly from diesel emissions, poses significant health and environmental risks due to its small size and potential to penetrate deep into the respiratory system. Accurate measurement of UFP concentrations is essential for assessing exposure and mitigating health impacts. However, current methods for measuring UFP can be complex, time-consuming, and costly. This study aims to develop a simplified method for efficiently measuring UFP concentrations from diesel emissions, which will enable easier and more widespread monitoring of air quality and public health impacts. By streamlining the measurement process, this approach seeks to improve data collection, reduce costs, and enhance the ability to monitor and manage diesel-related air pollution. Thus, the overall goal of this project is to develop a simplified and cost-effective method for measuring ultra-fine particulate matter (UFP) concentrations from diesel emission. The primary objective of this study is to develop a simplified method for measuring exposure to ultrafine particles (UFP) using truck traffic counts. This approach aimed to uncover how regions with complex terrain experience elevated UFP concentrations due to transportation-related emissions. By demonstrating the influence of topographical features on the accumulation of UFP through correlation analyses, this study provided valuable insights into the environmental and public health implications of UFP exposure in such settings. The proposed hypothesis is that there exists a positive correlation between UFP concentrations and the presence of heavy-duty trucks, suggesting that areas with higher numbers of truck traffic exhibit elevated levels of UFP concentration and that the ratio increases with rugged terrain and speed. The two specific aims were to: 1) Develop a correlation equation between heavy-duty truck traffic volume and Ultra-fine particulate matter concentration (as determined by the number concentration and real-time size distribution measurements). 2) Investigate the effects of complex topography on the measured correlation of UFP from diesel emissions compared to flat open topography. This research is an integral addition to the broader knowledge base on air pollution and a key aspect that informs public health implications particularly of Unconventional Natural Gas Drilling (UNGD) operations and urban planning in the future. Specifically, it addresses the heightened risk of ultrafine particulate matter (UFP) exposure in regions near Unconventional Natural Gas Drilling (UNGD) operations and Hydraulic fracturing. By developing a novel methodology to assess UFP concentrations and their health implications, this study provides valuable insights into the environmental and public health challenges posed by diesel emissions
Co-transmission is co-opted for the coordination of auditory sensory integration
No full textCorollary discharge circuits (CDCs) are conserved mechanisms for sensory modulation during species specific behavioral programs. Many behaviors require multiplexed differential sensory modulation for proper execution. Co-transmission of fast and slow neurotransmitters allows for distinct modulation of different downstream targets within one sensorimotor circuit. However, studying co-transmission within the context of modulatory circuits like CDCs requires complete knowledge of behavioral circuits and precise tools for individually determining the implications of each transmitter on its targets. In this dissertation, I used a conserved set of corollary discharge interneurons in Drosophila melanogaster as a model to study the intricacies of sensory modulation through co-transmission. I first show that the metathoracic ascending histaminergic neurons (MtAHNs) provide input to the auditory region of the brain and the sensory regions of the ventral nerve cord. I then show that they are active preceding the wing movements for flight. I then determined that the MtAHNs co-transmit both histamine and DH44 and use this co-transmission to differentially modulate separate subnetworks of the auditory circuit. Lastly, I show the conservation of the MtAHN’s co-transmission status is limited to species of Drosophila that use auditory courtship signals. Together this thesis reveals how the nervous system has adapted to use co-transmission to modulate overlapping sensory networks within the context of a CDC
Implementation of the Novel Nurse Intuition Patient Deterioration Scale to Assess for a Correlation Among Nurse Intuition and Patients Returning to the Intensive Care Unit
No full textIntroduction/Background: Adult hospitalized medical and surgical patients at an academic medical center are being transferred out of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to the step-down floor and having rapid response calls in less than 48 hours after the transfer. Nurse intuition is not a consideration in the decision to transfer a patient. Physiological variables such as Modified Early Warning Scores (MEWS) and vital signs are relied on heavily as indicators for escalation or de-escalation of care. There is evidence supporting the use of acknowledging nurse intuition to better predict a patient’s readiness for transitions of care.
Purpose: To evaluate the correlation between nurse intuition, MEWS, and patient’s returning to the ICU within 48 hours of initial ICU to step-down unit (SDU) transfer. To assess nurse demographics and perceived usefulness of the NIPDS in practice.
Interventions: Introduction and implementation of the Nurse Intuition Patient Deterioration Scale (NIPDS) on the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) and Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) and their commonly used parallel (SDUs) of 8 South-East and 7 East. Introduced a nurse demographics / NIPDS perceived usefulness survey to nurses and encouraged participation. Analyzed for completion of NIPDS and calculated if a significant correlation existed between NIPDS scores and patient transfer timelines. Assessed survey results for trends in nurse demographics and perceived usefulness of NIPDS.
Methods: The Plan-Do-Study-Act Model was used to translate the project aims and objectives into current practice at RMH. Education was presented on how to fill out the NIPDS, when to document it, and where the completed forms would be kept. All NIPDS forms were provided on brightly colored paper. Retrospective chart reviews took place to assess patient transition timelines and were recorded in an Excel document. The surveys were in a Likert scale format initially distributed through barcodes made available in emails and placed on common grounds of each floor. The survey was later converted to an in-person format due to lack of participation. Adjustments to the project were made as needed throughout the implementation period. The project received Institutional Review Board approval.
Results: A chi-square analysis was utilized to calculate the relationship between NIPDS scores and patient transfers throughout the MICU, SICU, 8 South-East, and 7 East. Frequency percentages were used to assess survey results. The results for correlation between NIPDS scores and patient transfer timelines were statistically significant. There was not a significant relationship between MEWS and patients going back to the ICU. Most participating nurses answered that they found the NIPDS to be a useful tool in practice.
Conclusions: The statistically significant results along with the background evidence, further supports nurse intuition as helpful in predicting patient trajectory. Most nurses answering that they found the NIPDS to be useful in practice, greatly benefits the sustainability. The project could easily be recreated using the NIPDS tool on paper or integrating it into the Electronic Health Record (EHR). There is also possibility for expansion of this project throughout other ICUs and SDUs
Tik Tok on the Clock: It\u27s Time to Amend Section 230
No full textThe Communications Decency Act (“CDA”), enacted in 1996, was designed to support the rapid growth of the Internet, advancing access to political information, educational resources, culture, entertainment, and news. However, Section 230 of the CDA includes a key provision that grants nearly absolute immunity to online platforms such as Facebook, X, and TikTok. This provision states: “No provider or user of an interactive computer service shall be treated as the publisher or speaker of any information provided by another information content provider.” Despite the Supreme Court’s apprehension to reexamine Section 230, the Third Circuit took a novel approach to potentially hold social media companies accountable for harmful content promoted through their algorithms in Anderson v. TikTok, Inc. This case involved the tragic death of a ten-year-old girl who participated in the dangerous “Blackout Challenge,” a TikTok trend encouraging acts of self-asphyxiation. The Third Circuit ruled that TikTok’s algorithm, which suggests videos to users based on predicted interactions, constitutes an “expressive product” of the company, and as such is protected speech. This Note will explore the history of Section 230 and the ensuing circuit split regarding immunity for interactive computer services in light of the Supreme Court’s inaction. It will examine the risks posed by unmoderated, algorithm-driven social media platforms in disseminating misinformation and promoting harmful content. Finally, this Note proposes that Congress should amend Section 230 to encompass comprehensive regulations that prioritize user safety while balancing free speech concerns. The Third Circuit took a step in the right direction with Anderson v. TikTok, Inc., and it is imperative to address the unbridled immunity that Section 230 currently provides
Compelled Contraception
No full textCan the federal government insist that people use contraceptives? It may come as a surprise to learn that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has done just that as a condition for allowing access to some pharmaceutical products that create a serious risk of birth defects. Over the last few decades, the agency has demanded that patients using certain teratogenic agents—now numbering over a dozen drugs prescribed for a variety of conditions, ranging from severe acne and psoriasis to multiple myeloma and pulmonary hypertension—agree to avoid becoming pregnant, sometimes for years after completing their course of treatment. Undoubtedly the FDA should require that the manufacturers of such therapeutic products disclose their dangers as well as offer recommendations for ways of guarding against the risk of birth defects. When the agency purports to dictate the measures that patients must take in order to avoid becoming pregnant, however, it raises constitutional questions that somewhat surprisingly have failed to attract serious attention
WVRHC Newsletter, Spring 2025
No full textCongressional Archives Portal Continues to Grow; Creating a Digital West Virginia Folk Music Collectio
Ex Libris, Spring 2025
No full textThe West Virginia University Libraries magazine, Ex Libris, is produced and printed through the support of library donors.
AOTUS SPENDS DAY WITH WVRHC The Archivist of the United States visited WVU Morgantown for a series of visits and tours, and chatted with WVU Libraries in an exclusive Q & A interview.
RISING TO MEET RESEARCH NEEDS WVU Libraries and the WVU Research Office are empowering University researchers, paving the way to advances in research and science.
CENTERING STUDENT SUCCESS AMIDST CHANGE The hybrid introduction to Library Research course isn\u27t your average college course. WVU librarians are innovating to make information literacy real and relatable for students.
TEN YEARS OF ART IN THE LIBRARIES From a vision to vibrant hubs of artistic expression, cultural enrichment, and visual displays of scholarship. Dive into a visual timeline of Art in the Libraries impact.
FUTURE OF THE HUMANITIES CENTER The Humanities Center is embarking on a journey of evolution based on the needs of WVU\u27s humanities community. Plus, meet the new director leading the change.
LIBRARIES NEWS AND UPDATES Meet the students and faculty who received awards from the Libraries, as well as the new librarians we welcomed, the current librarians we celebrated, and the retiring librarians we said farewell to.
SUPPORTING THE LIBRARIES\u27 FUTURE To meet shifting needs of WVU students, researchers, and West Virginians, WVU Libraries has honed its development and giving priorities for 2025