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The Rainbow Bridge: Female Characters as Representations of Materialism in British Industrialization Literature
No full textIt is difficult to overstate the impact that Industrialization had on every aspect of British society. This tumultuous change and the attempted digestion of its effects is pertinent in the literature of the day. A vast amount of research has been devoted to exploring the impacts to the collective narrative of 19th and early 20th century Britain. A primary element of Industrialization that must be absorbed by British society is that of materialism’s physical manifestations and the outworking of it in the world. Materialism fueled industrialization in Britain, leading to an all-encompassing idea of accumulation exhibited in colonization, slavery, and industry. Authors during this time must contend with this reality and the promised “progress” of Industrialization. This tension reveals itself in numerous ways. One largely unexplored facet of this is women in British Literature of the Industrial Revolution. Women in these texts reflect materialism. The women of the past are hidden figures, foreign, and forcibly excluded or silenced by the narrative. They represent the price paid for an industrialized world and the evils committed to achieve it, as well as the continuing blight upon the “modern” world. Despite this attempted silencing, the characters emerge of their own volition in the narrative. They are offset by women who represent the espoused ideals of materialism: the idea of a constructed world, safety, and home. This dichotomy of female characters and materialism is seen in multiple texts. Some of the most relevant are Jane Eyre, Hard Times, and Howard’s End. This thesis explores women as representative symbols of materialism in these texts by looking at key characters that embody aspects of materialism. Examining these characters through the lens of ideals and consequences of industrialization provides a closer look at Britian’s cultural understanding and ideology during the 20th century
Deciphering the Physiological role of WRINKLED2 in Arabidopsis Seed oil Metabolism
No full textTriacylglycerol (TAG) is the primary component of vegetable oils found in plant seed and non-seed tissues. The transcription factor WRINKLED1 (WRI1) directly or indirectly controls its synthesis. Arabidopsis WRI2 is not functional. However, in avocado (Persea americana) mesocarp, which constitutes 60-70% oil by dry weight, paralogs WRI1 and WRI2 are highly expressed. We previously demonstrated that PaWRI1 and PaWRI2 can interact with AW-box present in the promoters of target genes and transactivate them, thereby inducing lipid biosynthesis. Recognizing the importance of enhancing seed oil content to meet the global demand for vegetable oil, we hypothesize that PaWRI1 and PaWRI2 can induce oil accumulation in seed tissue through trans-activating the genes associated with fatty acid (FA) biosynthesis in a similar manner. We propose performing functional complementation of Arabidopsis mutant seeds, wri1-1 (CS69538) and wri2 (SALK_111105C) with PaWRI1 and PaWRI2. We aim to introduce the cloned PaWRI1 and PaWRI2 genes into Arabidopsis using a seed-specific promoter. Then we will analyze the expression of key genes involved in oil biosynthesis and quantify TAGs using Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detection (GC-FID). Ultimately, our goal is to evaluate their impact on increasing oleic acid content in the seeds. The outcome of this study will provide insights into the possible functional role of PaWRI2 in seed tissue, which is otherwise considered non-functional in other oilseed crops, and how it can be harnessed to increase oil production in other oil-rich plants
EDU-AI: Enhancing Data Retrieval and Dialogue with Retrieval-Augmented Generation and NLP Techniques
No full textThis study introduces EDU-AI (Educational Data Utility with AI), an advanced platform designed to provide accurate, context-aware and conversational response to academic queries within institutions. It excels at responding to queries such as “What is the minimum GPA for graduate admission to ETSU’s CS program?” by integrating real-time information retrieval with sophisticated language generation. The system searches a vast knowledge base to provide clear and concise responses in seconds. EDU-AI integrates Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) architecture with large language models (LLMs) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques. It employs techniques such as topic modeling, coreference resolution, similarity search, document ranking, query-rewriting, and prompt engineering to deliver accurate, contextually relevant, and conversational responses. To evaluate its effectiveness, EDU-AI was implemented as a prototype for East Tennessee State University (ETSU) publicly available web data to build an intelligent question-answering system for the ETSU scholars. The system achieved an 83% retrieval accuracy in document extraction from a pool of 5000 documents, and with average response time ~3 seconds, demonstrating reliability and timely information. A perplexity score of 26, measured via GPT2LMHeadModel, indicates sensible, confident responses, while an 88% coherence with ground truth, assessed using all-mpnet-base-v2, reflects human-like relevance. Qualitative feedback from ETSU focus groups praised its accuracy, context-awareness, and inclusivity (e.g., voice command support), but noted areas for improvement: reducing context carryover, expanding domain coverage, and enhancing accessibility with multi-language support and mobile compatibility. The study’s key contributions include the improvement of information accessibility within academic environments through development of a scalable AI-driven platform for educational data retrieval, presentation, and inclusivity features. Future enhancements will focus on refining conversation management, broadening knowledge coverage, and expanding accessibility features. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Education, Natural Language Processing (NLP), Large Language Model (LLM
Is Behavioral Fever in P. glutinosus Quantifiably Affected by Variable Amounts of Poly(I:C)?
No full textAmphibians face numerous novel pressures in the modern world. One such significant note is pathogens. Ectotherms cannot physiologically induce a fever like endotherms do, and they instead undergo a process known as behavioral fever in which individuals seek out warmer microclimates to raise their internal body temperature. This has been studied sparsely in salamander species. Physiological stressors also induce changes in behavior that can often be detected through changes in signal molecules in bodily fluids. Changes in corticosterone are often used as a major indicator of stress in amphibians. If P. glutinosus individuals are injected with a pyrogen, then they should show evidence of a change in thermal preference and in corticosterone levels. This is because fever in ectotherms requires a change in behavior brought on by the stressor of a perceived pathogen. To accomplish this, two objectives were decided upon: compare the thermal preferences of Plethodon glutinosus individuals when injected with differing quantities of the pyrogen Poly(I:C) and then collect and compare dermal corticosterone of Plethodon glutinosus individuals when undergoing behavioral fever. Individuals were injected with four variable amounts of the pyrogen poly(I:C): 0µg/g (control), 7.5 µg/g, 15 µg/g, and 21.5 µg/g. An individual is then placed in within a controlled behavioral arena with temperature varying between chambers: 15°C, 18°C, 21°C, and 24°C. Individuals were monitored over a 36-hour period in which their presence within a chamber was recorded every minute. Corticosterone was collected via dermal swabbing. Individuals were swabbed at three different moments during the experiment: once upon collection, once before placement within the chambers, and once after the end of the 36-hour trial period. These were then analyzed via an ELISA assay. From these analyses, temperature preferences varied amongst treatment groups and dermal corticosterone levels did not vary among the treatment groups
Between Death and Democracy: High Mortality and Political Change in Colonial Liberia
No full textThe Republic of Liberia represents one of the most unique developments in world history. Liberian history is fascinating, connecting to significant political, social, and cultural changes in the United States of America, the British Empire, and within West African societies. Strikingly, the African Americans who settled and shaped Liberia suffered extraordinary losses in their search for personal and racial freedom. This has been described as one of the worst mortality experiences in modern history. Yet, few Americans are familiar with this part of history. A much broader understanding, though still uncommon among the general public, has been achieved on the development of an elitist, patriarchal government structure in the Republic of Liberia. The link between the terrible mortality of Liberian colonization and this socio-political evolution has not been clearly delineated in much scholarship. Such clarification is needed, especially as Liberians are often disparaged by an academic and political conversation that routinely characterizes Liberian settlers as deeply flawed individuals who chose a crooked path toward freedom. Instead, the oppressive and brutal reality of settling freed enslaved people across the Atlantic pushed a beleaguered and ill population into a reliant position with the colonial agency and early government. This encouraged a patriarchal stratification of society. An evaluation of primary sources, namely the American Colonization Society and Maryland State Colonization Society archives, provides evidence for this relationship. Several scholarly secondary works on Liberian colonization offer valuable insights as well
Exploring Experience of Unconscious ICU Patients: Are the Medically Induced Comatose Aware of Their Surroundings?
No full textThis study explores whether patients in a medically induced coma are aware of their surroundings. If the findings suggest that patients are aware of their surroundings and can hear and remember things, such as nurses talking to them during care, the study may help improve the quality of patient care in the ICU by using therapeutic communication to reduce fear and anxiety during such a detrimental experience. This is a simple descriptive study using a self-report online survey through ETSU REDCap and an optional interview. The survey includes questions asking for basic demographics, the reason why the participant was in a medically induced coma, the length of the comatose period, whether they were able to hear, feel, or see anything, and things that stood out to them regarding nursing care while they were in a medically induced coma. It also asks whether they would like to discuss their experience in person to provide more detail and share their story. Participants can skip questions if they prefer not to answer certain items. During the interview, I typed summaries of the participant’s responses. This study is advertised using Facebook and Instagram. A poster with a QR code that directs individuals to the survey was posted, so it can be shared by others if wanted. The expected outcome of this study is that participants were aware of their surroundings while in a medically induced coma and were able to remember what was going on. If they experienced any fear or anxiety, what helped them reduce it, and what made them feel not isolated. Since the survey will be self-reported, the data collected may have relatively low reliability; however, it will be valuable to explore individuals’ experiences as it can contribute to enhancing patient care
Dating violence in adolescents and young adults in rural Appalachia
No full textDating violence involves harming or threatening to harm a current or previous dating partner, including psychological, physical, and sexual harm. (Breiding et al., 2015). Dating violence in rural communities is often overlooked and underreported due to multiple factors such as stigma, acquaintance density, limited resources, and intergenerational transmission of violence. This may be truer for adolescents and young adults in rural communities, who have limited resources, relationship experience, and knowledge about healthy versus unhealthy relationships. Common perceptions among rural residents include the belief that women are more passive or subordinate in relationships, and emotional abuse is not viewed as abusive behavior. Furthermore, young rural men are more likely to blame and place responsibility on young women in violent relationships. Risk factors for dating violence in adolescents and young adults include victim-related factors such as violence within the home, gender, growing up in a male-dominated home, and experiences of early childhood adversity. Among perpetrators of dating violence, risk factors include history of aggression, difficulties in school, problems with emotional regulation and anger, and experiences of physical abuse. There are differences in perceptions of the frequency and nature of dating violence among those at risk and figures of authority. This also extends to the knowledge of available resources for those who are in a violent or abusive relationship. The present study examined the experiences and perceptions of ETSU students regarding dating violence. Participants were recruited via SONA and awarded class credit for survey completion. Study measures included the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, Revised Conflict Tactics Scale, and Conflict in Adolescent Dating Relationships Inventory, along with a demographic questionnaire. A total of 806 participants completed the study. Study aims include: 1) determine the prevalence of teen and young adult experiences of dating violence in a sample of ETSU students; 2) measure differences in prevalence between rural and non-rural communities by asking students their community of origin (i.e., prior to attending ETSU); and 3) determine if there is a link between experiences of childhood maltreatment and later experiences of dating violence as a teen and/or young adult. In order to assess Aim 1, we will run descriptive data, including means, ranges, and standard deviations, as well as percentages. We will use correlational analyses to determine relationships between different forms of dating violence. For Aim 2, we will use t-tests to determine differences between experiences of rural and non-rural individuals. For Aim 3, we will use correlational and linear regression analyses to determine relationships between childhood experiences of maltreatment, middle and high school dating violence, and college dating violence. All analyses will be conducted using SPSS. Breiding, M. J., Basile, K. C., Smith, S. G., Black, M. C., & Mahendra, R. (2015). Intimate partner violence surveillance: Uniform definitions and recommended data elements. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Three Patients with Symptomatic Cystoid Macular Edema After Cataract Surgery
No full textCystoid Macular Edema (CME) is a known complication of cataract surgery with an estimated incidence of 0.8%, resulting in decreased visual acuity in the post-operative period. While the condition is treatable and the majority of eyes that experience CME are expected to achieve a visual acuity better than 20/40, it is important to identify risk factors for CME and focus on prophylaxis of this post-operative complication. This case series involves a 34-year-old male, an 82-year-old female, and an 83-year-old male. All three patients underwent staged uncomplicated cataract surgeries with a posterior chamber acrylic intraocular lens implant. Each patient had a two-week, or more, interval between cataract surgeries. In the post-operative period, each patient received a standard post-operative drop regimen with a topical antibiotic drop – moxifloxacin – and a steroid eye drop – prednisolone. The moxifloxacin was stopped after 1 week and the prednisolone was tapered over 3 weeks in each eye. All three patients experienced a decrease in visual acuity more than 1 month after cataract surgery and were found to have bilateral CME. All three patients were then treated with topical prednisolone and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory eye drop, ketorolac. 3 eyes had resolution of CME and return of good visual acuity less than 1 month after beginning treatment. 1 eye had resolution at 8-week follow-up. Due to a misunderstanding, one patient self-stopped the eye drops for CME and, subsequently, still had CME at a 6 week follow-up. Both ketorolac and prednisolone eye drops were restarted and serial examination is planned. This case series involves evaluating the similarities and differences between three patients with bilateral CME after uncomplicated cataract surgery. Each patient’s clinical course was unique and involved different social factors and levels of compliance with medication
Leveraging AI for Enhanced Multimedia Content Creation: College Students Perceptions on the Innovation.
No full textArtificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized multimedia content creation by enhancing efficiency, personalization, and creativity. As early adopters and prolific content creators, college students represent a key group for examining AI\u27s impact on the multimedia landscape. This study investigates college students’ perceptions of AI’s role in advancing multimedia content, with emphasis on technological innovations and ethical considerations. This study employed a mixed-methods approach using online surveys to assess the perceptions of 124 psychology students from East Tennessee State University (ETSU). Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, while Ailyze was utilized to analyze open-ended responses. Key variables assessed included AI usage frequency, perceived effectiveness, concerns about fake content, originality, and fairness. From the student surveyed 93.55% were aged 18-24. All participants in the study have had some experience with AI content creation. However, 38% reported rarely using AI. Some benefits of AI contents according to the respondents included time saving (67%), enhanced engagement (46%), and improved multimedia quality (32%). Authenticity and originality were the primary ethical concerns among participants. A significant association (p\u3c0.05) was observed between frequent AI users and awareness on ethical implications, potentially influencing their approach to AI tools in content creation. Despite widespread awareness of AI’s potential, both quantitative and qualitative analyses revealed limited actual use, with many students rarely employing AI tools, even while recognizing their efficiency benefits. College students recognize the efficiency of AI tools but lack trust in their quality, thereby reducing their likelihood of recommending them. To enhance AI adoption in content creation, marketing practitioners should prioritize content quality alongside efficiency. Additionally, incorporating AI education through case studies and practical applications in academic curricula can bridge the gap between efficiency and trust
Associations Between Rurality, Mental Health Literacy, and Help-Seeking Intentions Among College Aged Students in Appalachia
No full textIntroduction: Approximately 1 in 7 adolescents experience a mental health condition, yet most go untreated (WHO, 2024). Many barriers to mental health care exist, especially for those in rural areas due to limited access to healthcare, scarce resources (e.g., mental health providers), and cultural belief systems that contribute to stigmatization (El-Amin et al., 2018; Letvak, 2009). Mental health literacy (MHL; i.e., one’s knowledge and beliefs about mental disorders) may serve as a combatant to some of these barriers, as research has shown it to be a major facilitator of help-seeking (Goldney et al., 2011). The aim of the current study was to analyze the relations between rurality, mental health literacy, and self-reported help-seeking intentions should participants experience a mental health crisis in the future. I hypothesized that those who endorsed being from rural communities (as opposed to urban and suburban communities) and those with lower MHL would indicate lower intentions to seek help from a mental health professional or primary care provider (PCP) should they experience a future mental health crisis. Methods: Data were taken from a sample of 959 undergraduate students from a mid-sized university in South Central Appalachia (Mage = 19.74, SD = 4.02, 73.3% female, 90.8% white) Using SPSS, I ran two multivariate linear regressions, with rurality and mental health literacy as predictors and self-reported likelihood of seeking help from a mental health provider and PCP as outcome variables. Results: Results indicated no significant difference in help-seeking intentions based on rurality. Mental health literacy was positively associated with intentions to seek help from a mental health professional (b = 0.03, p \u3c 0.001) and PCP (b = 0.02, p = 0.02). Discussion: Educational programming aimed at increasing adolescents’ mental health literacy could be a promising approach to facilitate positive help-seeking behaviors