Digital Commons Network^™

Conducting Effective Literature Searches And Writing Strong Abstracts, Bert Chapman

Libraries Faculty and Staff Presentations

This invited presentation for students at Poland's War Studies University communicates ideas on how Ph.D. students at this institution can enhance their research quality. Specific content includes formulating your research question, determining research aims and methodology, reviewing a research question checklist, understanding the meaning of search terms you propose to utilize, devising effective search strategies, consulting multiple varieties of information resources from multiple countries, finding gaps in literature, being able to distinguish between nuances in literature and data, writing succinct abstracts, and enhancing the clarity of your prose.

Geography Of Non-Daytime Work And Employer-Centered Transit Accessibility, Julia Mai Plotts

Dissertations and Theses

Non-daytime shift workers--including those on evening, night, rotating, and split shifts--face unique transportation challenges. Those who rely on public transit often contend with complicated commutes and longer wait times on public transit systems that have traditionally catered to the 9-to-5 workforce. Meanwhile, the non-daytime workforce is disproportionately composed of marginalized groups, including low-income workers, racial and ethnic minorities, and individuals with fewer education credentials. For many lower-income workers, car ownership does not present a viable alternative, as cost-of-ownership consumes a significant portion of their income. This makes access to nighttime public transit a critical equity concern. However, most transit accessibility …

Artificial Intelligence: In Your Phone And In Your Head, Gabrielle A. Johnson

ENGL 1102 Showcase

Artificial intelligence (AI) innovation has gained traction in recent years due to large investments towards improving the average person’s daily life. While operating the parent companies of common platforms such as Amazon, Instagram, and Microsoft, America’s richest citizens have spent billions on improving and researching the recent technology. AI offers ‘shortcuts’ to many daily inconveniences, fostering an over-reliance on the technology that has also led to human shortcomings. By using artificial intelligence, students can easily fill in homework answers with no calculations or critical thinking necessary. Beyond academics, relying on this technology compromises a broader necessity: human connection. With chatbots …

Exit Policy, Liquidity Normalization, And Lts Implications On Central Bank Policy Transmission, Alexander Lubis, Rangga Pratama, Merlin Dwi Yunaniar, Wahyu Agung Nugroho, Dian Prima Susiandri

Bulletin of Monetary Economics and Banking

The objective of this study is to determine the implications for the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission by examining the impact of specific policy toolkits in both Advanced Economy (AE) and Emerging Market (EM) countries during crises and during normalization (exit policy) upon crisis resolution. The analysis conducted using the VECM method on a number of AE and EM countries demonstrates that the response of bank interest rates (credit) is consistent with changes in policy rates and substantially diverges from Quantitative Easing (QE) policy in both the short and long term. However, the efficacy of monetary policy transmission appears to …

Their Voices, Their Work: The Challenges And Experiences Of Resettled Female Refugees In West Michigan, Cristhel Vanessa Morlidge

Masters Projects

Resettled female refugees often hope to improve their life in the country and community that they settle in. However, they can instead face multiple challenges due to their gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and language. The objective of this qualitative study is to identify the unique experiences and challenges of female refugees as they enter the formal workforce in the United States. Participants in this research are from two different countries in Africa, and all currently reside in West Michigan. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and a small-focus group to learn about their experiences through their own words. While generalizations …

Prison-Based Factors And Deviant Behaviors Amongst Inmate In Selected Correctional Centers In Iiorin, Kwara State, Nigeria., Sadiq Ewaoda Amali, Tinyiku D. Ngoveni, Muzukhona Wilfred Buthelezi

African Journal of Criminology and Justice Studies

Prison-Based Factors and Deviant Behaviors Amongst Inmates in Selected Correctional Centers in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.

Abstract The study was conducted in two correctional centers in Ilorin with a total population of 908. Data was obtained from 713 respondents. Descriptive and inferential analyses were analyzed, variables were analyzed using frequency and percentage, while hierarchical logistic regression was used to test the formulated hypotheses. On ethical consideration, consent of each inmate who participated was obtained from penitentiary institution. A selected finding revealed that verbal and physical abuses of inmates by prison officials could predict deviant behaviors among inmates. Additional findings revealed …

Hb 1557 Impact On Family Functions, Andi Brabham

Undergraduate Research Conference

Families are often noted as the foundation of this country, so it is important to consider all families when implementing new policies. In 2022, the Parental Rights in Education bill (HB 1557) was approved in Florida. It was put into place with the intention of benefitting children and families, however, not every family was considered. Main points from HB 1557 include giving parents the right to know any information obtained on their children, the right of parents to have more control over decision making for their children, and the prohibition of discussions or teachings on sexuality and gender identity within …

Funding Opportunities For Non-Profit Organizations Led By Black Women, Laquasha A. Dixon

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

This study addressed significant disparities in funding awarded to non-profit organizations (NPOs) in the United States, led by Black women. Racial bias and the lack of knowledge about alternative funding sources were key factors contributing to this funding gap, which limited the capabilities of these organizations. The research question guiding this study was: In addition to government grants and program sponsorships, what other funding sources are available to NPOs led by Black women? The conceptual framework employed as a foundation for the research was the concept of creating a diverse funding portfolio for sustainability. The purpose of the project was …

Activity Levels Among Older Adults In A Life Plan Community, Emily D. Winters

OHSU-PSU School of Public Health Annual Conference

This study aimed to analyze resident's knowledge of the health and wellness programs available to them in their facility. It explored activity levels, preferred activity methods, and health and wellness program utilization among older adults residing in a life-plan community. A total of 166 survey respondents, aged 65 and older, were included in the analysis. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire designed to assess physical activity patterns, preferences for activity types, and engagement with the facility’s health and wellness offerings. Open-ended questions were assessed qualitatively through thematic analysis to find common themes within data. Results indicated that the most …

Primary Health Care: Strengthening Health Systems In Low- And Middle-Income Countries, Erin Young

OHSU-PSU School of Public Health Annual Conference

In recent decades, global health priorities have shifted away from promoting selective, donor-led interventions and towards the goal of strengthening primary health care systems in low- and middle-income countries. This project seeks to identify recommendations for and best practices of primary health care system development from the existing literature. A critical literature review was conducted using the Ovid-MEDLINE database to identify articles that focused on primary health care, included recommendations for health systems strengthening, and addressed low- and middle-income countries. Ultimately, 27 articles published between 2004 and 2019 were included in this review. Results suggest that important priorities for building …

How Can The Adoption Of Biodegradable Packaging In The Beverage Industry Specifically Contribute To Reducing Single-Use Plastic Waste, And What Regulatory Or Cost-Related Challenges Hinder Its Widespread Implementation In Developing Countries?, Rebecca Aba Gaisie

2025 Awards for Excellence in Student Research and Creative Activity - Documents

This research investigates the potential of biodegradable packaging to reduce single-use plastic waste in the beverage industry and explores the regulatory and cost-related barriers to its adoption in developing countries. The beverage sector is a major contributor to global plastic pollution, and biodegradable alternatives offer a promising path toward sustainability. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study combines qualitative interviews with industry experts and case studies of businesses implementing biodegradable solutions, alongside quantitative survey data from 100 manufacturers and 200 consumers across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Findings reveal that while biodegradable packaging significantly reduces plastic waste and appeals to environmentally …

Military And Veterans Law Society At The Syracuse College Of Law, Elizabeth Kubala, Brandon J. Bryant

Voices of Service Symposium

The Military and Veterans Law Society is a student organization at the Syracuse University College of Law. The mission of the MVLS is to better serve the local veteran population in Syracuse and the surrounding areas. The Military and Veterans Law Society provides veteran legal support and services, community outreach, and veteran policy research to support various veteran issues. The Military and Veterans Law Society strives to better connect the College of Law with our veteran population both on campus and in the community. VetFest: The recent 'Cuse Vet Fest was attended by over fifty Central New York veterans who …

National Military Trial Competition: First Competition Of Its Kind Hosted By Syracuse University College Of Law, Elizabeth Kubala, Todd Berger, Anna Lupardo

Voices of Service Symposium

Trial advocacy refers to the skills required of lawyers in order to effectively represent their clients during litigation. This involves all of the methods used in presenting a case in court such as opening statements, direct examinations, cross examinations and closing arguments. Effective trial advocacy requires a combination of legal knowledge, effective communication skills, and the ability to read the dynamics of a courtroom in order to ultimately influence the outcome of the case in the favor of your client. Law students develop their trial advocacy skills through classes, competitions, or personal development. Military justice refers to the legal system …

Expectancies For Alcohol Analgesia And Alcohol Use Among Veterans With Chronic Pain: The Moderating Role Of Discrimination In Medical Settings, Victoria E. Carlin, Kyle Mackenzie White, Joon Kyung Nam, Grant H. Ripley, Alexa G. Deyo, Joseph W. Ditre

Voices of Service Symposium

Introduction. Chronic pain and alcohol use are highly prevalent and frequently co-occur among U.S. military veterans. Expectancies for alcohol analgesia (i.e., degree to which an individual believes that consuming alcohol can help reduce or manage their pain) may contribute to alcohol consumption, dependence, and related harms. Discrimination in medical settings (i.e., degree to which one experiences inequitable treatment while receiving healthcare due to a stigmatized identity) has been linked to a variety of deleterious health outcomes and may amplify associations between expectancies for alcohol analgesia and drinking behavior. Methods. Participants included 430 U.S. military veterans with chronic pain who endorsed …

Developing An Undergraduate Course On Veteran And Military Behavioral Health, Sarah J. Litt, Joseph W. Ditre

Voices of Service Symposium

Understanding the behavioral health needs of military service members and veterans is important for students who may pursue careers across the helping professions. This poster presentation details the development of a new undergraduate course that provides foundational knowledge in military and veteran behavioral health. The course examines a broad spectrum of psychological and behavioral health issues, including substance use and addiction, trauma and PTSD, military sexual trauma, suicide, pain and physical impairment, depression, anxiety, and the challenges associated with transitioning to civilian life. It also explores family and relationship dynamics, military culture, and barriers to mental health care. Key considerations …

New Zealand Security Agencies’ Secrecy, Accountability, And Transparency In The Modern Era, Ben Amata

Secrecy and Society

New Zealand’s security agencies need to balance conflicting missions of secrecy, accountability, and transparency in conducting national security government operations. Citizens expect protection without violating their liberties and for security agencies to act effectively and legally. From public revelations about the agencies and government reform efforts, the agencies evolved from almost total secrecy to greater accountability and transparency since World War II. This study employs a historical methodology, which examines primary source documents to reveal the history of secret behavior and to reform the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service and the Government Communications Security Bureau.

Addressing The Promise And Peril Of Ai For Nonprofit Management Through A Data Feminist Pedagogy, Billie Sandberg, Rafeel Wasif, Laura C. Hand

Public Administration Faculty Publications and Presentations

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) has opened up possibilities for nonprofit management, and practitioners are taking notice. A recent study revealed that nearly 90% of nonprofit organizations are interested in using AI (MacDonald, Citation2023). Another study indicated that more than half of the nonprofits surveyed use AI to support finance, human resources, communications, and mission-related (i.e., working with clients, program implementation, and grantmaking) functions (Herschander, Citation2024). Indeed, many of us likely know student-practitioners and nonprofit colleagues who leverage AI to help write donor thank-you notes, newsletters, grant proposals, and press releases and who work for nonprofits that incorporate chatbots …

Effective Marketing For One Nonprofit Organization To Help Increase Financial Stability, Alexander King

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

Effective Marketing for One Nonprofit Organization to Help Increase Financial Stability by Alexander King MS, Walden University, 2022 MA, American Military University, 2018 BA, American Military University, 2016 Professional Administrative Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Public Administration Walden University May 2025

Californians’ Perceptions Of The Causes Of Homelessness And Potential Policy Solutions, Sophie G. Srivastava, Benjamin D. Rosenberg, Vincent Berardi

Psychology Faculty Articles and Research

Introduction

This study examines whether residents’ perceptions of the causes of homelessness and preferred policy solutions are associated with homeless-related behaviors and opinions, and whether such perceptions are attributed to internal or external factors.

Methods

California residents (N = 371) completed a survey and an exploratory factor analysis was conducted, which identified subscales of the perceived causes, preferred policy solutions, opinions, and behaviors. We used MANCOVA to examine which sociodemographic characteristics were associated with each subscale, and multiple regressions to assess relationships among subscales.

Results

As predicted by attribution theory, internal causes (e.g. lack of ambition) were positively associated …

The Effect Of A Dance-Like Martial Arts Training On Prisoners’ Concentration Ability, Uta Czyrnick-Leber, Kiara Kuhrs, Christian Kraft, Pamela Wicker, Bernd Groben

Journal of Prison Education Research

A cognitive prerequisite for education and (re)entry into the labor market is the ability to concentrate for a long period. Conducted with 39 participants, the present study examines the effect of a six-week dance-like martial arts program on prisoners’ concentration ability in an open prison in Germany (n=15), and compares their concentration ability with a control group of prisoners (n=5), as well as a treatment (n=11) and control group (n=8) of university students. Concentration ability is assessed using the d2-R concentration and attention test before, after, and six weeks following the program. The program’s participants showed significant improvements compared to …

Book Review: Next War: Reimagining How We Fight, Jeffrey Caton

Parameters Bookshelf – Online Book Reviews

Author: John Antal

Reviewed by Colonel Jeffrey Caton (US Air Force, retired), president, Kepler Strategies LLC

In Next War: Reimagining How We Fight, by John Antal, the author’s goal is to “draw lessons and conclusions from the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War, the Israeli-Hamas War, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War.” He highlights nine disrupters that he claims are changing modern warfare. Reviewer Jeffery Caton sees room for improvement.

©2025 Jeffrey Caton

No Vaccine? Why Not: Causes Of Vaccine Hesitancy And How Governments Can Stop It, Alexander (Alec) Mccarty '25

Honor Scholar Theses

Vaccine hesitancy is a term that has entered the spotlight since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. With concerns about efficacy, safety, and individual choice, many people have developed a hesitancy toward receiving any vaccine, creating concerns for public and global health. Through responses from local and state health departments about their actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, and through analysis of state vaccine rates based on political affiliation, this study suggests that vaccine hesitancy is a current issue that is likely politically motivated. States that are Republican affiliated have lower rates of vaccine uptake, and in turn they have higher …

Investigation Of Sprinkler Requirements In One-Or-Two-Family Newly Constructed Homes, Courtney Catrillo

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

Multiple case studies and available data supported the effectiveness of residential fire sprinklers. Despite this, 48 states have not implemented a requirement for residential sprinklers in newly constructed homes and 46 have eliminated the requirement. The purpose of this study was to examine which states have adopted the recommendation and to what extent. This generic qualitative study is an exploration of the reasons behind the lack of adoption. Data from reports, charts, and tables from publicly available sources, including government and stakeholder websites, were analyzed using expected utility theory to compile a findings table. The results indicated that only Maryland …

Mitigating The Effects Of The Covid-19 Pandemic On Human Development: The Case Of Tortugas, Balanga City, Bataan, Patrick C. De Leon

Journal of Public Affairs and Development

This study aimed to analyze how Barangay Tortugas implemented its programs and projects to mitigate the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of the three elements of human development (health, education, and access to resources). Data were gathered through key informant interviews using a structured questionnaire. Purposive sampling was used in selecting respondents comprised of eight barangay officials, the school principal, 13 teachers, and 60 beneficiaries of the Barangay Kitchen Station and the vaccination program. Results of the study showed that among the various programs and projects being implemented in the barangay, only three (3) were successful. …

Investing In "Left Behind" Places: Learning From Native American Tribal Communities, Robert Maxim

Brookings Scholar Lecture Series

As part of the Brookings Scholar Lecture Series, Brookings Mountain West presents a lecture titled, "Investing in 'Left Behind' Places: Learning from Native American Tribal Communities" by Brookings fellow in Brookings Metro, Robert Maxim.

Over the past decade, U.S. political and economic discourse has centered on helping “left behind” places. The federal government joined this conversation, emphasizing everything from tariffs and trade protectionism to revitalize domestic industry, to landmark industrial policy bills aimed at pouring new federal investment into lagging places. Native American tribes can serve as an important case study for understanding how federal, state, and local policies can …

2025 April News Report, Morehead State University. Office Of Communications & Marketing.

Communications and Marketing Publications Archive

The April 2025 Morehead State University News Report.

Turning Farm Waste Into Energy: Pragmatic Approaches For Cleaner Midwestern American Communities, Rebecca Gaisie

Selected or Submitted Student Research Papers/Projects

Mismanagement of farm waste in the Midwest of the United States has resulted in significant methane emissions, water contamination, and public health concerns. The present manure management rules are still inconsistent, underfunded, and insufficient to motivate individuals to behave in a way that benefits the environment, despite increasing concerns about the environment. This policy study investigates anaerobic digestion as a potential means to convert waste into energy that could support rural and environmental development. Some of the problems with the federal and state legislation examined in this study under an EPI framework are a lack of incentives, inadequate technical support, …

Does Ai Help Or Harm? Why And How Ai Use Influences Workplace Outcomes And Employee Well-Being, Haille Trimboli, Reka Lassu

Education Division Scholarship

Although the recent surge in excitement surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) might suggest it is a new development, AI has been applied in organizations for over forty years (Fanti et al., 2022; Markelius et al., 2024). Indeed, the term "artificial intelligence" itself emerged in the 1950s during a research project at Dartmouth College, where it was used to describe "machines able to simulate human intelligence" (Haenlein & Kaplan, 2019, p. 3). Most recently, in 2022, the landscape of AI use for laypeople greatly changed when OpenAI introduced ChatGPT, a generative AI tool, to the public; ChatGPT is an advanced AI language …

Understanding Cyberbullying Behavior Pre- And Post-Covid-19: A Qualitative Assessment With Application To Missouri Policy, Sydney Tyler Lamb, Kristen N. Sobba

Missouri Policy Journal

Cyberbullying is a form of abuse that has become more prevalent with the increased use of social media and advancements in technology. The current study aimed to evaluate cyberbullying behavior and its impact on society before and after the COVID-19 pandemic in addition to understanding Missouri policy within these two time frames. The variables included for the study were cyberbullying behavior/perpetration, cyber victimization, and demographics including age, gender, and race. A content analysis was conducted to examine the literature involving the aforementioned variables pre- and post-COVID. Each variable was separated into prior and current information sections to examine the literature …

Prison Privatization And Its Impacts On Inmate Quality Of Life: An Analysis Through Logan's Eight Dimensions Model, Hafsa Ahmed

Master in Public Administration Theses

This capstone paper delves deeply into the ramifications of prison privatization on inmates' quality of life in contracted immigration detention facilities. With the increasing inclination towards privatizing correctional institutions, especially immigration detention centers, a rigorous evaluation is indispensable to ascertain the ramifications of such privatizations on the welfare of incarcerated individuals. In this exploration, Logan's quality of confinement model is meticulously applied to selected immigration detention centers to scrutinize the living conditions and reveal profound insights into the quality of life experienced by inmates. This model allows a structured assessment of various dimensions such as safety, order, care, activity, management, …