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What are the Genetic Influences of Alcohol Sensitivity and Alcohol Metabolism? A Narrative Review of Human Studies
Full text linkBackground: Alcohol sensitivity and alcohol metabolism are two phenotypes associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD) influenced by genetics. This narrative review aims to answer “What are the genetic influences of alcohol sensitivity and alcohol metabolism?” to gain a better understanding of the genetic aspects of AUD.
Methods: A database search was performed in PubMed. Empirical human genetic studies published between 2009 and 2025 that focused on alcohol sensitivity (measured by the Self-Rating of the Effects of Alcohol scale) or alcohol-metabolizing genes were eligible for review. Studies were screened to determine inclusion for the current review.
Findings: Fifteen studies were reviewed. Sample sizes ranged from 24 to 7,339 individuals. Study samples were largely of European ancestry, with fewer studies in individuals of African and Asian ancestries. Among the studies reviewed, a wide range of variants were shown to be associated with lower alcohol sensitivity, such as OPRM1 variants, while GAD1 variants and others were associated with higher alcohol sensitivity. Alcohol-metabolizing variants such as ALDH2*2 were shown to be protective against AUD, and others were associated with a greater risk of AUD, such as ALDH1A*1.
Conclusion: An interesting variety of genetic variants appear to play a role in alcohol sensitivity and alcohol metabolism. Many alcohol-metabolizing variants were replicated across the studies reviewed, such as ALDH2*2, confirming prior results of its robust association with AUD. Future genetic research should use larger sample sizes and more diverse populations to improve gene identification and obtain more generalizable results.https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/uresposters/1468/thumbnail.jp
Exploring the Educational Gap of Virginia English Language Learners: Challenges and Opportunities for Academic Success
Full text linkEnglish Language Learners (ELLs) in the state of Virginia have significantly lower scores in the Standards of Learning (SOL) assessment exam than those of their English-speaking peers. The SOL measures students’ mastery of knowledge and skills taught in the classroom, and over the last decade, passing rates of the assessment’s core subjects amongst ELLs have continued to decrease and remain relatively low. In the 2023-2024 academic year, the average passing rate for ELLs who took the Writing SOL was only 26%, with Science being not much higher at 29%, and Reading at 33%. For the non-ELL student body, average rates across core subjects are much higher, being between 65-90%. Further research has shown that this is a nationwide issue. The main objective of this study is to present the challenges and causes of low passing rates and propose opportunities for solutions to close the gaps in education for academic success. Initial informal interviews with Multilingual Ambassador Program (MAP) colleagues who have lived experience with English Language programs in Virginia’s K-12 public school system along with individuals in Latinx Student Association (LSA), have shared key qualitative insights that support the quantitative data trends. Colleagues shared a common struggle in simultaneously learning a new language while acquiring new content with little support available and lack of cultural sensitivity. School faculty and staff also shared difficulties with lack of resources and support, particularly in rural or low-income areas. To combat this, this study proposes a solution to create easily accessible, no-cost, multilingual resources for students and teachers that are culturally relevant and sensitive to learning differences. Furthermore, schools should seek opportunities to promote academic engagement of ELLs and their families, and establish support networks to help students excel in their academic achievements.https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/uresposters/1470/thumbnail.jp
Learning and Identity in Cross Functional Teams: A Communities of Practice Perspective
No full textCross functional teams (CFTs) are groups of diverse professionals leveraged by organizations to address a variety of complex issues. While CFTs have the potential for rapid problem solving, product or service innovation, and knowledge creation, they sometimes underachieve or fail to meet their goals at great cost to the organization. Prior research points to the barriers that diverse professional identities create to CFT performance and learning. This study aims to explore the relationship between the professional identities of cross functional team members, and what and how they learn. A conceptual framework for the study sought to view a CFT as a type of community of practice (CoP), given the socially embedded learning associated with CoPs. The data for this single, qualitative case study included CFT member and stakeholder interviews, meeting observations, and a review of relevant CFT and company materials. Nine themes emerged from the study that provided insight into how the team operated as a community, and how the team integrated within the organization. The team was enabled as a community because of (a) a shared, motivating purpose; (b) space for personal lives, interests and identities; (c) multifaceted, multilayered expressions of professional identity; (d) minimization of hierarchical roles, (e) high frequency and variety of communication, (f) rich team learning, and (g) shared experiences that created stories. The team integrated with the organization through (a) managing organization tensions and issues of alignment, and (b) ensuring outward bound and cross organizational learning. These findings have implications for organizations interested in leveraging CFTs as learning entities. A new conceptual framework for viewing CFTs as an “adolescent” CoP is proposed
The General Movement Optimality Score-Revised (GMOS-R): An Early Biomarker for Developmental Delays
No full textThe General Movement optimality score may provide insight into the relationship of term age General Movements and future neurodevelopmental disabilities and could be an early biomarker. This dissertation aimed to determine the relationship between term age neurologic function, measured by the optimality score of the General Movements, and postural control at term and three months (Chapter 2), and the relationship between neurologic function, at term and three months, and 12 month cognitive and motor outcomes (Chapter 3) and the impact of intervention on neurologic function and postural control at three months and on 12 month cognitive and motor outcomes in infants with abnormal optimality scores (Chapter 4). Findings from Chapters 2 and 3 suggest that the optimality score at term age has a positive association with short and long term motor skills and short term neurologic function; making it an early biomarker for future motor skills. In Chapter 4, we compared developmental outcomes of infants who did not receive the intervention, those who received the intervention beginning at moderately late preterm age and those who received the intervention after three months of age. The group that received the intervention before three months of age and the group that did not receive the intervention have similar 12 month cognitive and motor outcomes. However, waiting to participate in the intervention after three months of age was associated with lower 12 month cognitive and motor outcomes. Earlier participation in intervention could be protective in this sample of infants born preterm. We will discuss clinical implications of these findings and areas of future research
Effects of Gas Exchange Rates Between C3 and C4 Plant Species
Full text linkSpinach and basil (C3 plants) were compared with corn (C4 plant) to
explore how photosynthetic pathways affect CO2 consumption. Corn
seeds were obtained and planted in Miracle-Gro® soil to be observed
over the duration of a month. Leaves (starting from 3,4, and 10) from
each plant were then taken and placed into a bottle and closed off
with a CO2 gas probe that measured levels of carbon dioxide in ppm.
Spinach and basil leaves were used as a comparison for measuring
the rate of CO2 concentration. This is done to compare the gas
exchange rates between C3 and C4 plants. The stomatal area/leaf
area were recorded from each plant as well. Additionally, chlorophyll
was extracted from the C3 plants to determine if there were any
differences among CO2 rates. Our null hypothesis is that plants that
differ in photosynthetic pathways (C3 and C4) will have similar CO2
consumption rates. Our alternative hypothesis is that plants that differ
in photosynthetic pathways will have significantly different CO2
consumption rates. CO2 levels declined more amongst C3 plants,
attributing the higher chlorophyll content.https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/uresposters/1477/thumbnail.jp
The Role of BMP-2 in the Inflammatory Response to Biomaterials
No full textBiomaterials of Biomaterials of various compositions are implanted throughout the body for a variety of clinical applications. Metals and polymers such as titanium alloys (TiAlV) and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) are popular bone-dwelling biomaterials in fracture healing, craniofacial and other orthopedic repairs due to their mechanical properties. Although these are useful materials for replacing or restoring function to bone, their long-term viability depends on successful osseointegration at the bone-implant interface, which is a point of concern especially for individuals with impaired healing or chronic inflammation. This has prompted the use of growth factors, such as bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2), which has been used for its capacity to induce bone formation. BMPs are a group of growth factors essential for embryonic development and tissue formation. While significantly improving bone formation, the use of BMP-2 as an adjuvant in bone healing repairs has also been linked to increased inflammation leading to unwelcome complications and suggests an effect on immune cells that is not well understood. Previous investigations into BMP-2 sources have shown that, although BMP-2 is secreted by osteoprogenitor and vascular endothelial cells at the injury site, they are not required for healing. In contrast, the ablation of macrophages does inhibit bone healing, which leads to the question of whether immune cells, particularly macrophages, are key sources of BMP-2. In the work completed for my thesis through a combination of in vitro and in vivo experiments, we have 1) established that BMP-2 induces pro-inflammatory macrophage activation in response to biomaterials, and 2) determined that pro-inflammatory macrophages express the Bmp2 gene and produce BMP-2 in response to biomaterials, damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs)
Clarinet Studio Recital, video
Full text linkstudio recital videoClarinet Studio Recital, videoThursday April 3, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.Sonia Vlahcevic Concert HallW.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts922 Park Avenue | Richmond, VirginiaStudents from the studios of Dr. Tabatha Easley, flute; Ms. Alyssa McKeithen, oboe;Dr. George Stoffan, clarinet; Dr. Bruce Hammel, bassoon; and Dr. Patrick Smith, hor
IN PRAISE OF DUST
Full text linkA desire path is a physical manifestation of where a system has failed, but also where it has been refused, where a new path has been made. The wake exists in the post, it is not a singular, untethered event, but a subtle double entendre that lives in the post-death, but also in the pre-life—not a liminal limbo, but a superposition of dying and waking.
This collection was assembled and composed over the course of two years as I navigated my practice, myself, and others. Present here are my thoughts, my experiences, and in many ways my beliefs. IN PRAISE OF DUST aims to generate a cosmology for my practice and work thus far. The form of this work, however, is neither art, per say, nor philosophy: it is study, it is practice, it is speculation
Establishing a Conventional LINAC-Based Electron FLASH Beam
Full text linkProblems: A rediscovered radiotherapy technique, FLASH, involves increasing the dose rate to \u3e40 Gy/s. For a given dose, FLASH is shown to decrease the normal tissue complication probability without affecting the tumor control probability. More preclinical studies are necessary to confirm and enable these desirable properties on humans. Current preclinical investigations have diverse constraints, requiring FLASH apparatuses with flexible parameters and accurate control. However, there are limited FLASH platforms available, the existing ones are costly. Our institution is not in possession of any such infrastructure. Even if available, dosimetry and beam control in FLASH are extremely lacking. There is a major need for novel techniques. Procedure: To establish a FLASH infrastructure at VCU, a cost-effective method of modifying current technology was employed. A LINAC was altered to achieve electron FLASH by selecting photon mode, retracting the target, shifting the carousel to an open port, and tuning waveforms. Prior to experimentation with the system, an extensive literature review was conducted. A novel control mechanism was developed around a commercial plastic scintillation detector equipped with an ultra-fast acquisition unit, display, and customizable microcontroller. Circuitry was developed to connect the acquisition unit’s output to an interface board on the LINAC, which enabled the assertion of a beam off. The microcontroller software was altered to enable pulse counting and dose-based control of the LINAC. The system was tested against previously validated passive film detectors by developing custom phantoms. Additionally, the scintillation detector underwent several characterization tests. Beam characterization of PDDs and profiles was also evaluated with film dosimetry. To preliminarily test the control system in a preclinical setting, a cell irradiation pilot study was performed. Results: The LINAC underwent the conversion. Film measurements revealed a mean dose rate of 168 Gy/s slightly past the isocenter, confirming the alteration was successful. The literature review indicated the uncertainty biologically if FLASH exists, highlighting a strong need for further investigation. The survey also provided a list of FLASH capable detectors, most of which were passive, and showed that new control systems are needed since all proposed methods are imperfect. The scintillation detector system was more than temporally sufficient to resolve individual pulses in FLASH, calculate dose in real-time, and be utilized for control. The control system was implemented but could use improvements to its accuracy. The scintillation detector appeared to degrade in FLASH, which requires recalibration after every use. Additionally, the detection system sometimes double counted pulses, was found to be nonlinear with dose, and experienced an afterglow effect. The control system was accurate enough to perform a preclinical cell-irradiation study to obtain a survival curve of tumor cells. Films revealed a practical range of less than the expected 3 cm owing to a decrease in beam energy from the conversion process. Conclusions: Gaps in current FLASH research were found via a literature survey. FLASH has been cost-effectively achieved at VCU by modifying available technology. A control system was enabled to count pulses and measure dose for flexible beam delivery. FLASH control was accurate enough for preclinical investigations. Improvements are needed before the use of FLASH on humans. More characterizations on the scintillation detector of several different compositions are required
Interrogating the Endogenous Peptidome for Biomarkers of Traumatic Brain Injury
No full textTraumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant global health concern, with millions of cases reported annually worldwide. Its incidence spans a wide spectrum of severity, from mild concussions to severe injuries that can result in long-term disability or death. Despite advances in our understanding of TBI pathophysiology, the mechanisms underlying the long-term effects of even mild injuries remain poorly understood. These injuries can lead to lasting cognitive deficits, emotional disturbances, and neurodegenerative diseases that manifest years after the initial trauma. A major barrier to progress in this area is the lack of reliable biomarkers to diagnose TBI severity, predict patient outcomes, and monitor recovery—creating a critical gap in both clinical practice and research. This dissertation seeks to address this gap by investigating the TBI-responsive peptidome as a potential source of informative biomarkers. Using mass spectrometry and advanced bioinformatics techniques, endogenous peptides were identified and quantified in the serum and urine of brain-injured patients. Two distinct panels of peptides emerged from this analysis. The first discriminates and predicts the incidence of elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) in brain-injured individuals, implicating vascular dysfunction as a contributing factor in ICP development. The second panel consists of peptides that correlate with clinical metrics over the course of patient hospitalization, offering molecular insights into the processes underlying symptom progression and recovery. To further evaluate the relevance of these peptides to TBI pathobiology, select candidates were assessed in a controlled cortical impact (CCI) model of injury in rats. Together, these findings demonstrate the potential of the endogenous, injury-responsive peptidome to reveal new insights into injury severity, recovery trajectories, and long-term complications. This work supports a more precise and personalized approach to TBI diagnosis and management, with the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes through early intervention and targeted therapeutic strategies