Digital Commons Network^™

Kareena Patel - Operations Intern At Matter, Kareena Patel

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

Hello! My name is Kareena and I was an Operations Intern at MATTER during the Spring 2024 semester. This presentation goes into what MATTER is, an explanation of the different projects I worked on, and the skills I acquired throughout my internship.

“Private Paths To Peace” Examining The Role Of The Private Sector In Peacebuilding Through Disarmament, Demobilization, And Reintegration In Northern Ireland, Chicago, And Colombia, Michael Clausen

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

International efforts to end protracted conflicts have included sustained investments in combatants' disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR). While policy analysts have discussed factors that contribute to successful programs and have reasoned about the macro conditions that facilitate peacebuilding, there is limited information surrounding the factors that account for successful reintegration at the community level. This project considers the impact of entrepreneurship by communities and formerly incarcerated individuals on peaceful coexistence and focuses on DDR from the perspective of Chicago’s 77 official Community Areas.

Cultivating Gratitude In Christian Sport Professionals, Julie Powell

CSKLS Annual Conference

Using the framework of the eight dimensions of wellness and the five habits of a flourishing life, this presentation will focus on how to cultivate the virtue of gratitude and thanksgiving in order to combat the undesirable vice of entitlement. This presentation will outline what gratitude is, how we express it, and how to embody it as a part of our character. Cultivating a grateful disposition can be the result of practicing spiritual disciplines and the session will brainstorm ideas of how this might look in our current profession and in our personal lives.

Quantifying Phosphatidylethanol From Dried Blood Spots By Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry​, Samantha J. Morey

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) is a phase II biomarker formed in the walls of red blood cells that shows excellent sensitivity and specificity as a screening biomarker for chronic alcohol use and abuse. The goal was to develop a “point of care” means of detection and quantitation of PEth to identify alcohol misuse by patients in a clinical setting. This new method is effective at measuring the total amount of ethanol incorporated into the blood phospholipids in whole, dried, and potentially decomposed blood (ex. postmortem). This work is based on US patent 11,085,939 B2 titled “Quantifying Phosphatidylethanol from Blood Samples” published in …

The Bacterial Implications Of Red Swamp Crayfish In Chicago's North Shore Channel, Mikayla Ballard

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

Red swamp crayfish are invasive to the Chicago area, and they are known to live in sewage outfall waters in the North Shore Channel. Through calculating average bacterial load, I determined that red swamp crayfish living in sewage-polluted water carry higher amounts of bacteria than crayfish living in non-contaminated waters. This adds a new layer to their invasion in Chicago, with red swamp crayfish potentially serving as a vector for high concentrations of sewage-associated bacteria to enter the food chain.

Confronting Cruelty: Ethical Insights Into The Treatment Of Model Organisms In Contemporary Research, Marcus Piattoni, Isabella Gates, Alexis Rossi

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

This research seeks to investigate the ethical treatment of model organisms within recent scientific studies, focusing on Zebra Finches, Cotton Rats, Zebra Fish, African Clawed Frogs, and Rhesus Monkeys. Using the "Web of Science” database, articles concerning each model organism were reviewed to assess the quality of treatment afforded to each species. Special attention was given to inter-species differences, evaluating how the discussions on research subject treatment differed between species. Ensuring ethical treatment of all animal subjects in medical research is critical for maintaining the integrity and efficacy of scientific research.

Balancing The Scales: Investigating The Potential Impact Of Risug And Adam As Novel Male Birth Control Methods, Marcus Piattoni, Ryan Chang, Saniyya Butler, Grace Acosta, Geena Fajardo

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

ADAM is a newly invented, non-hormonal form of male birth control that is projected to be FDA approved and widely available in 2027. This project seeks to examine the science of how ADAM, and its precursor RISUG, work, alongside the social and ethical implications of a widely available method of male birth control. We will discuss the unique composition of ADAM and RISUG and how it maintains azoospermia or oligospermia in men. Then, we will discuss the social and ethical implications of having a widely-available, long-term male birth control, including its effects on male reproductive autonomy, gendered implications, and what …

Enhancing Default Mode Network Connectivity: Experimental Neuroscience And Computational Methods, Rachel Abbe

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

The default mode network (DMN) in the human brain is involved in a broad array of cognitive functions, including creative thinking. Transcranial Electrical Stimulation (TES) is a popular non-invasive brain stimulation. TES has three types: Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS), and Transcranial Random Noise Stimulation (tRNS). The mechanisms of each TES method still need to be better understood. This study proposes simulation of the DMN using HD-tDCS, alpha-HD-tACS, high-frequency HD-tRNS, and sham. We intend to reveal how the three TES methods impact DMN activity and connectivity using scalp electroencephalography (EEG). Co-Authored by: Kahiau Among, DJ …

Enhancing Creativity Through Stimulation Of The Default Mode Network: Experimental Neuroscience And Computational Methods, Diego Capetillo, Rachel Abbe, Kahiau Among, August Decz, Maria Dima, Kyle Kovich, Emily Rokos

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

Creative thinking involves generating and evaluating new ideas in response to problems. Generation of new ideas, or divergent thinking has recently been shown to be associated with activity in the default mode network (DMN) of the brain. In this project we attempted to demonstrate the causal role of the DMN in divergent thinking by using α-tACS to stimulate alpha brain waves in Posterior Cingulate Cortex and enhance DMN connectivity while participants completed an array of creativity tasks. Resting state EEG was recorded before and after stimulation to determine whether changes in brain activity mediated the relationship between stimulation and creativity.

Assessing Biochar’S Influence On Soil Nutrients And Native Plants In Great Lakes Coastal Wetlands, Eva Bednard

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

Native species in Great Lakes Coastal Wetlands (GLCWs) are threatened by rampant invasion of aggressive species such as Typha spp. and Phragmites australis. Anthropogenic activity alters GLCW ecosystems through nutrient runoff that results in eutrophication, creating favorable conditions for aggressive plant invaders. An emerging mitigation strategy to address invasion via pollutant and macronutrient capture is the application of the soil amendment product, biochar. Research suggests that biochar has the potential to remove nutrients and pollutants from soils and thus mitigate invasive growth. However, little research has been done on GLCW native response to the addition of biochar. This project addresses …

The Past, Present, And Future Of The Anti-Vax Movement, Burhan Habib Sufi

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

The Anti-Vax movement is a social movement that opposes vaccine usage for various reasons. In this presentation, I’ll be exploring some of the history of this movement dating back to the 18th century and examining its evolution over the years. The anti-vax movement is deeply rooted in socio-political issues across America and is an important example of the active dangers of misinformation and disinformation. I’ll explore major players contributing to the mis/disinformation of vaccines, those who seek to profit from this rapidly growing movement, and how this mis/disinformation is spread. This presentation seeks to shed light on the anti-vax movement’s …

Growing Resilience: Combating Food Insecurity Through Urban Farming In Bronzeville, Olivia Muth, Jera Moses, Andrew Lane, Brandon Folson

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

This project addresses the pressing problem of food insecurity due to historical racial and economic disparities in the predominantly African American community on the southside of Chicago. Our product contributes to creating a sustainable model for urban farming that tackles racial and economic inequalities in food access.

The Association Between Exercise And Treatment Seeking In College Students Diagnosed With Substance Use Disorder, Shanti Oneil

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

This presentation will discuss our investigation of the relationship between exercise and seeking treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) in college students. Data from Fall 2015 through Spring 2019, from the National College Health Assessment, were used in multivariable logistic regression models. Students who met the guidelines had a 30.6% increase in the odds of seeking SUD treatment compared to students who did not meet the guidelines (aOR = 1.306; 95% CI 1.142–1.493). The observed association underscores the potential value of considering exercise and physical activity in the development of SUD treatment strategies for college students.

Exploring The Relationship Between Microplastics And Neurotoxicity, John Stathopoulos

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

This presentation will look at the relationship between microplastics and neurotoxicity, focusing on the limits of our current knowledge. Despite being an especially relevant topic of conversation in the realms of environmental and public health, little is known about the effects that microplastics have on the brain. As a neuroscience student with interests in medicine, neurodegeneration, and public health, I found the lack of research shocking. Throughout this semester, I looked at primary research and news articles to explore the extent of our knowledge and limits of current microplastic research, as well as their potential neurotoxic effects and future steps.

Indigenous Political Rights: Constitutional Comparison Of Colombia, Guatemala And Bolivia, Michael L. Mathews

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

How does constitutional language consecrate the protection of political representation for marginalized groups? What historical, social and political factors affect constitutional development with respect to indigenous groups. These questions are increasingly important as the past 40 years have been characterized by increasing pressure on governments to give voice to indigenous peoples. This article focuses on the cases of Bolivia, Colombia, and Guatemala countries with recently revised constitutions that have changed the indigenous political structure. The study examines each countries’ constitutional development in indigenous representation and the resulting political and social aftermath of constitutional ratification.

The Work Of Creating A Digital Archive Database On Eating Disorders: An Intern’S Experience, Andrew Ms Zero

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

This presentation will describe the experience of working on an in-progress digital archival database of primary sources related to eating disorders and other related issues and their role in how eating disorders are discussed. Over the course of the Fall semester, I worked on metadata creation for hundreds of different types of sources. This process of source metadata creation involved thorough reading in order to accurately create specific metadata, even when the content would be extremely disturbing, and determine what would be best to make these sources most accessible through specified “tags”. This type of work improved my technical and …

Bridging Law And Politics: My Engaged Learning Journey, Ximena Paola Castaneda

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

In this video, I will share my engaged learning journey in the field of law and politics. I will discuss how my personal experiences and academic background have shaped my interest in immigration law. Engaged learning opportunities have provided me with hands-on experience, insight into legal practice, and a clearer understanding of my career goals. I will also highlight the challenges I faced during my internship and the key learnings and impacts of my experience. Watch this video to gain insights into the importance of engaged learning in the field of law and its real-world applications.

Pedestrian-Involved Traffic Signal Optimization Using Decentralized Graph-Based Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning, Vijayalakshmi Kumarasamy, Abhilasha Jairam Saroj, Joseph Duhamel, Yu Liang, Dalei Wu, Michae P. Hunter, Mina Sartipi

UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference

In urban transportation systems, integrating pedestrian movements into traffic signal timing optimization is crucial for smooth and safe traffic flow. This study investigates the Decentralized Graph-based Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning (DGMARL) method for signal timing optimization, considering both pedestrian and vehicle traffic states. Evaluating fixed and adaptive pedestrian accommodation strategies, the study assesses their impact on traffic flow and signal timing. Using a Digital Twin microscopic traffic simulation model of the MLK Smart Corridor in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the approach's effectiveness is analyzed. Results show that the strategy of signal timing optimization with adaptive pedestrian request improves Eco_PI by significantly compared to …

Integration Of Decentralized Graph-Based Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning With Digital Twin For Traffic Signal Optimization, Vijayalakshmi Kumarasamy, Abhilasha Jairam Saroj, Yu Liang, Dalei Wu, Michael P. Hunter, Angshuman Guin, Mina Sartipi

UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference

Machine learning (ML), especially reinforcement learning (RL), has garnered significant attention for optimizing traffic signal control in intelligent transportation systems. However, existing ML approaches face scalability and adaptability challenges, especially in large traffic networks. This paper proposes an innovative solution by integrating decentralized graph-based multi-agent reinforcement learning (DGMARL) with a Digital Twin (DT) to enhance traffic signal optimization, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and network-wide fuel consumption associated with vehicle stops and delays. DGMARL agents learn traffic state patterns and make informed decisions on traffic signal control, further facilitated by the Digital Twin module simulating real-time traffic behaviors. Evaluation utilized …

Micro Vs. Macro Level Simulation And Performance: A Comparative Analysis With Application To Intelligent Transportation System, Vijayalakshmi Kumarasamy, Ritu Patel, Yu Liang, Dalei Wu

UTC Spring Research and Arts Conference

This paper compares micro and macro-level simulation approaches within the context of intelligent transportation systems (ITS). Micro-level simulations model individual vehicle interactions, while macro-level simulations capture system-wide dynamics. We assess their performance, computational efficiency, and applicability in addressing ITS challenges such as traffic management and route optimization. Additionally, we explore hybrid approaches combining both paradigms. Our findings offer insights for researchers and practitioners in selecting suitable simulation methodologies for ITS applications.

Implications Of Borderline Personality Disorder Cluster Symptoms For Suicide Risk, Eve Sudberry, Erin Mcmeekin, Keyne Law

School of Psychology, Family, and Community Research Conference

We explored the relationship between borderline personality disorder (BPD) symptom clusters and the likelihood of a history of suicidal ideation (SI). Those with BPD are at a significantly higher risk for suicide. Many symptom clusters such as negative relationships and affective instability have been implicated in suicide risk. Undergraduates (n=126; Mage=20.85, SD=5.29) completed self-report measures assessing BPD symptoms and suicide history. We plan to run a logistic regression to accomplish our aim of uncovering the risk for SI associated with different BPD symptom clusters. We hope our findings will provide clarity on the mechanisms behind SI in those with BPD.

Exploring The Research On The Transformative Power Of Narrative Therapy, Hajar Ouakrim, Craft Baine

School of Psychology, Family, and Community Research Conference

Narrative therapy is a dynamic method that highlights the importance of individual narratives in forming personalities and perspectives. When going through the process of communicating your struggles and removing existing dominant narratives, narrative therapy allows individuals to cultivate preferred narrative including their identities, connections, and emotions. Although there have been numerous studies of narrative therapy in various contexts, to date, no study has attempted to summarize these findings. Therefore, we are conducting a meta-analysis to identify trends in the effectiveness of narrative therapy. Our analysis includes 87 empirical studies of narrative therapy.

Servant Leadership In The Periodical Literature Of Librarianship, Simone Clunie, Darlene Parrish

Library Scholarship

Leadership is one of the most critical factors in the success or failure of an organization and can greatly impact the health and well-being of all participants, especially lower participants. (Kendrick, Kaetrena Davis, 2020). In Robert Greenleaf’s 1970 book, The Servant as Leader, he posits that a leader should be a servant first, seeking the health and development of all participants in an organization. This research project investigates the number of articles published in the periodical literature of librarianship about servant leadership, the nature of the coverage, and if servant leadership is being implemented in libraries as it was …

Advancements In South Korea's Multilingual And Multicultural Initiatives: Perspectives From Bilingual Immigrant Coaches And Korean Government Officials Working In Health Family Support Centers, Seongyo Gwon, Jayoung Choi

Symposium of Student Scholars

Health Family Support Centers in South Korea play a pivotal role in promoting multilingualism and multiculturalism in South Korea that practices Korean-only assimilation policies. With an increased influx of multicultural immigrants, these centers provide assistance and services to immigrants. These centers also serve as a hub for both immigrants who have gained proficiency in the Korean language and culture also work there as bilingual coaches and translators, and dedicated Koreans fostering cultural harmony. Thus, it is crucial to examine experiences and perspectives of employees striving for immigrant equity in South Korea at these centers.

This study explores the perspectives and …

The Role Of Sense Of Purpose In Health Navigation Among Marginalized Older Adults, Ameesha Narine

Symposium of Student Scholars

A sense of purpose is a central, self-organizing life aim that guides choices and behaviors (Lewis, 2020; Mcknight & Kashdan 2009). In older adulthood, having a sense of purpose is linked with positive health (Musich et al., 2018; Lewis & Hill, 2021). Understanding how older adults who identify as socially marginalized (e.g., racially/ ethnically diverse, LGBTQ+) leverage purpose to navigate their health, for example, when setting health values, making health decisions, or adapting to health challenges may support the development of tailored resources to combat social disparities embedded in healthcare systems. This study used qualitative thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, …

Generating Channel Morphology Data Through Arcgis Pro, Ethan Manigbas

Symposium of Student Scholars

River cross-sections are often extracted using field surveys at measured intervals. This field-oriented approach allows for a tangible relationship between the data and its collector but at the expense of finance, time, labor, and potentially the environment. With the advancement of geospatial tools, such data can be found online, extracted, and even analyzed with contemporary Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in a completely virtual setting, transcending the need for fieldwork in select project topics. We tested this approach with the help of ArcGIS Pro software on the Vishnu Springs headwater stream located in the Western Illinois region of the Upper Mississippi …

The Classification Of Internet Memes Through Supervised And Unsupervised Machine Learning Algorithms, William H. Little

Symposium of Student Scholars

Memes, those captivating internet phenomena, effortlessly deliver online entertainment. By leveraging time-series data from Google Trends, we can vividly illustrate and dissect the dynamic trends in meme popularity. Previous studies have discerned four distinct post-peak popularity patterns— "smoothly decaying," "spikey decaying," "leveling off," and "long-term growth"—and elegantly modeled these using ordinary differential equations.

This research introduces a programmatic approach that harnesses both supervised and unsupervised machine learning algorithms. The dataset, now expanded to over 2000 elements, becomes the canvas for exploration. The K-means algorithm identifies clusters, which then serve as labels for the supervised SVC algorithm. The overarching goal is …

Exploring Neural Networks For Breast Cancer Tissue Classification, Stephen Jacobs, Md Abdullah Al Hafiz Khan

Symposium of Student Scholars

Last year, more than 240 thousand women in the United States were diagnosed with breast cancer. These patients are benefitting from decades of data that have been collected by cancer research institutions around the world. Tissue samples are analyzed and cataloged by these institutions, and several facilities like the University of Wisconsin are sharing this historical data to promote the advancement of new cancer treatments. Deep learning and neural network models are being built for this data to help doctors diagnose faster and design treatment options for patients by comparing their tissue samples with these historical datasets. We will use …

Understanding The Needs Of Georgia’S Hispanic/Latinx Population Regarding Adolescent Health, Aylin Diaz, Evelina W. Sterling

Symposium of Student Scholars

Georgia’s Department of Public Health’s Adolescent Health and Youth Development (AHYD) Program is based on the Positive Youth Development Approach as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This approach engages youth within their communities, schools and organizations, peer groups, and families in a productive and constructive manner. Overall, the AHYD program aims at preventing HIV, STIs, and pregnancy among all youth. In Georgia, the Hispanic/Latino population has grown to over 10% of our total population. However, adolescent health programs within Georgia have not specifically focused on the cultural differences among the large Hispanic/Latino community. This study takes …

Examining Galaxy Bulge Regions With The Sloan Digital Sky Survey, Sarah E. Draves, Ariyeh Maller

Publications and Research

Nearly all of the ordinary matter in the universe is located in galaxies, which are made up stars, gas, dust, and black holes, and range in size from a few thousand to a few hundred thousand light years across. Galaxies come in different shapes, but many of them are spiral shaped, and some of those have a central bulge region that is distinct from the rest of the galactic disk. This project used a large data set of galaxies that had their bulge and disk components separated to see what correlations those fractions of each galaxy have with other galaxy …