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Lens space surgeries on simple spaces
No full textThe Berge Conjecture asserts that any knot in S³ admitting a lens space surgery has a surgery dual that is a simple knot in a lens space, and Berge provided twelve families of such knots. Greene and Berge independently proved that this list is complete among simple knots. In this dissertation, we consider an analogue of the Berge Conjecture: lens space surgeries arising from knots in other simple 3-manifolds, specifically the Poincaré homology sphere and S¹ × S². In the case of the Poincare homology sphere, we develop a construction that produces infinitely many knots admitting lens space surgeries, recovering some results of Hedden and Tange. For S¹ × S², we focus on the dual knots in the resulting lens spaces. Using the width of the Alexander polynomial, we constrain the possible homology classes of knots in lens spaces that admit S¹ × S² surgeries. This approach plays an important role in completing the classification of BBL knots as the only simple knots in lens spaces admitting longitudinal S¹ × S² surgeries.Mathematic
Second order latent growth modeling with common item ordinal responses : focusing on model specification and evaluation
No full textThis study investigates the performance of the second-order latent growth model with graded response models (SOLGM-GRM) for longitudinal data with ordered categorical responses. The primary aim is to evaluate how key modeling decisions––such as including common item factors, assuming longitudinal measurement invariance (MI), and accounting for item parameter drift––affect both model fit and parameter estimate accuracy. Monte Carlo simulations were conducted under varying conditions of sample size, the presence or absence of common item effects, and item parameter drift magnitude and proportion. In addition, an empirical investigation was carried out to explore the relationship between common item factor variance and item residual correlation values. Data were generated based on Samejima’s graded response model (GRM), and parameters were re-parameterized into structural equation modeling (SEM) formulations following Forero and Maydeu-Olivares (2009), C. Wang et al. (2016), and Zheng et al. (2022). Model performance was assessed using a comprehensive set of global fit indices––including both conventional and rescaled versions of the CFI, TLI, RMSEA, SRMR, MFI, and rescaled information criteria (rAIC, rBIC, rSABIC)—as well as parameter estimation accuracy (bias, RMSE, MAD) for latent growth and item-level parameters. The findings showed that the SOLGM-GRM assuming MI and modeling common item factors (e.g., Model 1) consistently exhibited superior and stable fit and accurate parameter estimates across conditions, even under moderate item parameter drift. In contrast, ignoring either common item effects or longitudinal MI led to significant estimation errors and poorer fit. Additionally, empirical relationships between common item factor variance and item residual correlations were identified, providing practical guidance for deciding when to model common item effects. This study contributes to the methodological literature by offering practical recommendations for evaluating model fit and selecting appropriate model structures in longitudinal cognitive and psychometric modeling within the SOLGM-GRM framework.Educational Psycholog
Investigating the use of multiple indicators in cross-lagged panel models : a methodological research approach
No full textLongitudinal research provides valuable insights into the relationships between variables across time. The Cross-Lagged Panel Model is one of many longitudinal models that exists to examine these relationships. This model is unique in that it simultaneously examines the reciprocal relationships between two or more variables at each measured point in time. These types of models hold real world importance for understanding the relationships between a wide range of variables. However, there has been little research on the effects of measurement error and multiple indicators on cross-lagged panel models. This study used a Monte Carlo simulation to compare four versions of the cross-lagged panel model, including the cross-lagged panel model, the random intercept cross-lagged panel model, and multiple indicator versions of both on the outcomes of Type I error, power, bias, and relative bias. The results of the analyses demonstrated that the multiple indicator random intercept cross-lagged panel model consistently performed better than the other three models under a wide variety of conditions. Despite this, the multiple indicator random intercept cross-lagged panel model did struggle to perform accurately when there were less than four time points. Additionally, larger sample sizes and higher reliability values tended to produce greater power and stability in estimates. Although more research is needed, it is recommended that researchers collect four or more time points of data and use the multiple indicator random intercept cross-lagged panel model when considering the use of a cross-lagged panel model.Educational Psycholog
Subjectivity, simulation, and signal bleeding : playing with reality in the remedy connected universe
Get PDFThis dissertation is a rhetorical and phenomenological interrogation of subjective experience in digital simulations, including but not limited to digital games. It is an attempt to articulate how the digital makes possible the feeling of presence or passage between real and virtual worlds and account for the blurring of the perceptual boundary that separates them. The term signal bleeding is introduced as a conceptual metaphor to describe how real and virtual “signals” bleed into one output or representation of reality. To account for the subject, the self is first conceptualized as an amalgamation of information organized by narrative, a linguistic product that allows the body to attend to itself and coordinate action. The “I” is a virtual operator or ghost in the machine, data organized into a story for the purposes of identification. Humans as informational organisms are mutually constituted by their representational models, figurations based on data profiles, preferences, and histories online. A symbiotic interdependent relationship with computers has developed through everyday interaction with information and communication technologies (ICTs). Digital subjectivity is interrogated at the point of interaction between human-computer and human-data as well as gamic conceptions of player through an ontology of play and avatar embodiment. Simulation is first introduced with Baudrillard’s conception of hyperreality or signs that no longer have referents, by which he argues that what we conceive of as reality is simulation. Later in the work, digital simulation is addressed as code, procedure, and narrative. Future narratives and storyplaying are also discussed as the means by which movement through digital simulations is possible. The rhetorical gameworld model (RGM) is created for the purpose of analyzing
world construction and experience in digital simulations. The model is then applied to the Remedy Connected Universe, a narrative web that connects four digital games developed by Remedy Entertainment: Alan Wake, Alan Wake’s American Nightmare, Control, and Alan Wake 2. The RGM serves as the framework for analysis of subjectivity, simulation,
and signal bleeding across the games. Points of overlap between the real and the virtual are identified and discussed before finally sketching broader applications of the model.Communication Studie
Measuring perceptions of human-AI hiring : scales for openness to AI, perceived AI dependability, and value of AI for decision-making
Get PDFAs artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into workplace decision-making, public perceptions of its role remain complex. Many companies now use AI-based tools in hiring despite concerns about bias and the implications of replacing human judgment with automation. This research explores how people’s understanding of AI, or AI literacy, shapes their perceptions and engagement with these tools. To better understand people’s AI literacy, this research developed a scale to measure diverse perceptions of AI, which led to three measures capturing different dispositions toward AI-based tools used for decision-making.
These measures emerged from a multistage, mixed-methods scale development project designed to assess individual AI literacy within the context of human-AI decision-making. The research began by analyzing qualitative data from college student interviews (n = 26) and an open-ended survey (n = 91) exploring how people conceptualize AI-based hiring tools. Thematic analysis revealed that people draw from personal experiences, knowledge, and beliefs rather than just technical understanding when explaining their understanding of AI. These insights informed the development of scale items, which were tested in a pilot study (N = 141). Exploratory factor analysis identified three key dimensions: openness to AI, perceived AI dependability, and perceived value of AI for decision-making. The scale was further refined and tested with a larger national sample (N = 385). Confirmatory factor analysis validated the three-factor model, and the dimensions were compared to related concepts such as trust in AI and perceived source credibility of human versus AI-based hiring recommendations.
This research makes conceptual and empirical contributions to research on perceptions of human-AI decision-making. As AI-based tools become more prevalent in workplaces, education and training efforts should address misconceptions and biases about AI-generated information. Focusing on individuals’ dispositions highlights the importance of examining beliefs and attitudes about AI alongside technical knowledge when assessing AI literacy. Developing measures for openness to AI, perceived AI dependability, and perceived value of AI for decision-making provides tools for researchers to conduct more comprehensive empirical work that addresses biases toward AI-generated information.Communication Studie
Beyond stereotypes : analyzing Beef and the changing face of Asian American representation
Get PDFThis report examines the evolution of Asian American representation in U.S. film and television over the past 30 years, focusing on the impact of all-Asian casts and social media, with Netflix's original series Beef as a key case study. The research investigates how Asian Americans engage with Beef on social media and explores implications for cultural engagement and identity. Chapter 1 conducts a textual analysis of Beef, exploring themes of hybridity, heterogeneity, and home in relation to societal issues like generational trauma and mental health stigma within the Asian American community. Chapter 2 delves into the role of social media in participatory culture, community building, and evolving representation. The findings of this report highlight nuanced portrayals of Asian American identities in Beef, challenging past patterns of portrayals and offering authentic, diverse experiences. Meanwhile, social media discourse by viewers of the series reflects a growing demand for inclusive narratives and authentic representation. The study underscores technology's role in shaping audience interaction and the success of the show. Ultimately, this report examines how Beef represents progress towards inclusive storytelling while industry challenges persist in fully representing the diversity of Asian American experiences. The report advocates for continued research and advocacy to promote equitable media representation, fostering cultural engagement and social change.Radio-Television-Fil
Entre Familia: Brochures
No full textEntre Familia is a collaborative evidenced-based service project in Hidalgo County that aims to increase HPV vaccination among Latino adolescents and young adults in order to reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality, along with other associated health disparities, among Latinos in Hidalgo County.This brochure, in English and Spanish, is used in the Entre Familia program to educate parents about HPV, the HPV vaccine, and cervical cancer. It explains how HPV is transmitted, common symptoms, prevention methods, and the importance of vaccination before sexual activity. The brochure also provides information on Pap tests, risk levels associated with HPV types, and recommended vaccination ages for boys and girls, supporting informed decision-making for familiesLiberal Art
Double Jaw surgery for a patient with Gnathodiaphyseal Dysplasia (GDD): A case report and literature review
Get PDFIntegrative Biolog
Time in trauma, burnout, and recovery of physicians' work
Get PDFThis dissertation explores the relationship between physicians' temporal
experiences and their well-being, focusing on trauma, burnout, and recovery in federally qualified health clinics. It examines the tension between fungible time (standardized, clock-measured time) and epochal time (unique, event-driven time) to understand how communication structures impact physicians' ability to manage their work. Using a qualitative research design, the study includes two phases of data collection. The first phase involves clinician observations, analyzing how physicians allocate their time compared to their formal (i.e., planned) work schedule. The second phase consists of an electronic survey and in-depth interviews with physicians to explore how time pressures impact their well-being. The findings reveal that the misalignment between the scheduled time and the time needed for patient care exacerbates stress and limits physicians' capacity to recover. Practical recommendations are provided for healthcare institutions to restructure temporal norms, enhance physician well-being, and ultimately improve patient care. By understanding these temporal norms, institutions can better address the emotional and physical demands on physicians, contributing to a more sustainable healthcare workforce.Communication Studie
Appease or not appease? : third-party reactions to interstate and extrastate aggression
Get PDFIt is commonly believed that trade, democratization, and evolving international norms have rendered states less willing to use force. However, both research and recent political developments indicate that wars and conquests remain common. Why? This paper argues that systemic peace is a function of not only potential aggressors' belligerence, but also others' readiness to counter aggression. Faced with a collective action problem, third parties rarely respond unanimously. My analysis of new data covering UN General Assembly roll calls on resolutions denouncing acts of interstate and extrastate aggression shows that third-party responses to aggression are mainly driven by alliances and foreign policy similarity rather than conflict severity, distribution of power, or geographic vulnerability. Overall, these results may cast doubt on our ability to maintain interstate peace in the long run. If governments oppose only adversarial aggressors, threats arising from within a powerful alliance might go unnoticed.Governmen