Digital Commons Network^™

Embedding-Driven Synthetic Malware Generation With Autoencoders And Cluster-Tangent Diffusion, Gunnika Kapoor, Sathvika Nadipalli, Fabio Di Troia

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Malware has become increasingly sophisticated over the years, with zero-day attacks emerging at an alarming pace. Effective detection and analysis demand real malware samples, which are expensive and skill-dependent to extract. As a result, generating high quality synthetic samples from scarce data sets becomes a crucial method for strengthening detection software. This paper focuses on presenting generation techniques that optimize the embedding space to produce high-quality synthetic samples, even under constrained datasets. The dataset used in this paper consists of 500 Windows malware API call samples that were processed using embedding and Generative AI (Gen AI) techniques to generate synthetic …

Spartan Daily, November 5, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 32

Molecular Fluctuations Inhibit Intermittency In Compressible Turbulence, Ishan Srivastava, Andrew Nonaka, Weiqun Zhang, Alejandro Luis Garcia, John B. Bell

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

In the standard picture of fully developed turbulence, highly intermittent hydrodynamic fields are nonlinearly coupled across scales, where local energy cascades from large scales into dissipative vortices and large density gradients. Microscopically, however, constituent fluid molecules are in constant thermal (Brownian) motion, but the role of molecular fluctuations in large-scale turbulence is largely unknown, and with rare exceptions, it has historically been considered irrelevant at scales larger than the molecular mean free path. Recent theoretical and computational investigations have shown that molecular fluctuations can impact energy cascade at Kolmogorov length scales. Here, we show that molecular fluctuations not only modify …

Spartan Daily, November 4, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 31

Effects Of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction And Transglutaminase Treatment On The Physicochemical Properties Of Protein From Stropharia Rugosoannulata, Lingyu Yang, Lili Yang, Xi Feng, Yang Xiao, Xiaoju Tian, Wen Huang, Ying Liu

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Protein from edible mushrooms can serve as a new alternative protein to replace meat in various food formulations. However, the processing characteristics of mushroom protein were poor. In this study, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and transglutaminase (TGase) were used for the modification of protein from Stropharia rugosoannulata (SRP) to improve its utilization. The optimal parameters of UAE were 480 W for 20 min. The process of TGase modification was optimized by a single-factor experiment and response surface test to obtain the TGase dosage of 0.36 % (w/w), cross-linking at 40℃ for 1.5 h, and reaction pH of 5.4. The effects of …

Broadening Workforce Participation In Transportation: Challenges And Strategies, Jodi Godfrey, Stephanie Ivey

Mineta Transportation Institute

Attracting and retaining a diverse, skilled workforce remains one of the most pressing challenges in the transportation industry. A new MTI-led California State University Transportation Consortium report examines why workforce participation gaps persist and identifies practical strategies organizations can implement to address them. Drawing on an extensive literature review, a nationwide industry survey with 996 respondents, and in-depth interviews with 15 transportation professionals, the study highlights both the barriers and the solutions to workforce participation. The findings emphasize that open dialogue, intentional investment, and inclusive workplace policies can help transform industry culture, making transportation careers more appealing to a broader …

Information Strategies In The Electric Vehicles Battery Reverse Supply Chain With Blockchain Technology, Tianqin Shi, Yanting Huang

Mineta Transportation Institute

The surge in demand for electric vehicles (EV) and EV batteries, coupled with supply chain vulnerabilities and price instability, has driven the need for efficient and sustainable EV battery recycling processes. This report investigates the potential of blockchain technology to address the challenges in the EV battery reverse supply chain (moving goods from the end customer back towards the manufacturer), focusing on enhancing transparency and coordination, as well as mitigating the impact of unregulated recycling. Key stakeholders in this analysis include manufacturers, recyclers, and regulatory bodies. To achieve these objectives, the study employs a mixed-methods approach. It includes semi-structured interviews …

Simulating The Impacts Of Regional Wildfire Smoke On Ozone Using A Coupled Fire-Atmosphere-Chemistry Model, Derek V. Mallia, Cambria White, Angel Farguell, Jan Mandel, Adam K. Kochanski

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Wildland fires emit pollutants such as fine particulates (PM2.5), and ozone (O3) precursors that can adversely impact air quality. To better understand processes that directly influence smoke transport and plume chemistry, this study leveraged a coupled fire-atmosphere model (WRF-SFIRE-Chem) to quantify the contributions of wildfire smoke to O3 relative to regional anthropogenic emissions. Coupled fire-atmosphere-chemistry simulations were also used to examine how aerosol radiative feedbacks, i.e., smoke shading, modifies smoke transport and plume chemistry. This study investigated a major smoke episode that occurred during the record-breaking 2020 western U.S. wildfire season. Overall, WRF-SFIRE-Chem was able to reproduce the evolution of …

Progressive Oxygenation Of The North Atlantic Subpolar Gyre, Jannes Koelling, Andrea J. Fassbender, Alison R. Gray, Gregory C. Johnson, Jonathan D. Sharp, Dustin Carroll

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

The subpolar North Atlantic (SPNA) is one of the few regions where the deep ocean is in direct contact with the atmosphere, making it a key location for interior ocean ventilation through gas exchange. We use a novel observation-based data product to analyze large-scale patterns of the air-sea flux of oxygen, finding a mean annual flux of 48.1 (Formula presented.) 14.6 Tmol (Formula presented.) from the atmosphere into the ocean integrated over the SPNA ((Formula presented.) N– (Formula presented.) N). An analysis of a fully-closed oxygen budget from the data-assimilative ECCO-Darwin ocean biogeochemistry model suggests that the net uptake is …

Fresno’S Scribbles Bike Path: A Master Plan For Active Transportation, Holly Sowles, Uris Giron

Mineta Transportation Institute

The Fresno Scribbles Bike Path Master Plan, which represents a commitment to equitable active transportation and social infrastructure, is designed to enhance the quality of life for Fresno residents by providing safe, comfortable, and accessible biking and walking paths while promoting sustainability and fostering a sense of community. This report details the Intelligent Design Visualization Lab’s (IDVL) ongoing contribution to the Fresno City Scribbles Bike Campus initiative. This multifaceted urban intervention seeks to promote bike and pedestrian safety, enhance environmental resilience, and active transportation infrastructure through design, serving as a form of placemaking. In collaboration with the Fresno State Transportation …

Use Of Polymer Fiber To Improve Mechanical Properties Of Hma Containing Recycled Asphalt Pavement (Rap), Ashraf Rahim, Shadi Saadeh, Hani Al Zaraiee

Mineta Transportation Institute

A great percentage of highways and roads in California are constructed with Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA), and, as California infrastructure ages, these highways and roads must be maintained and rehabilitated. Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) is considered an excellent alternative to virgin (raw, unprocessed) materials because it reduces the use of virgin aggregate and binder. Also, the use of RAP decreases the amount of construction waste placed into landfills. This laboratory study investigated the effect of two different commercial polymer fibers on the mechanical properties of HMA with RAP. Three different HMA with RAP mixes were used in the study. One …

Pra…We Went With It!: Sjsu's Decision To Enable Primo Research Assistant, Christine Holmes, Sharesly Rodriguez

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

After a year-long evaluation, the Primo Research Assistant Team at SJSU Library decided to enable the AI tool within OneSearch. Our presentation will cover the evaluation process, including a responsible AI framework and insights from user testing involving library faculty, staff, and students. Our testing revealed that 78% of participants approved the tool, recognizing its potential to simplify initial research consultations and assist students with developing research questions. We will also discuss key takeaways, support resources, and future plans. The session will touch upon discussions regarding AI ethics, biases, misinformation, privacy, and environmental impact.

Spartan Daily, October 30, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 30

Spartan Daily, October 29, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 29

Spartan Daily, October 28, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 28

Do Sustainability Reports Contain Financially Material Information?, Suzanne Haley, Matthew Shaffer, Richard Sloan

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Recent years have witnessed significant growth in corporate sustainability reporting. Yet existing research provides mixed evidence on the information content of these reports for investors. We examine the stock market reaction to the announcement of a sample of US corporate sustainability reports incorporating Sustainability Accounting Standards Board metrics that are intended to provide financially material information to investors. Using standard measures of information content, we cannot find compelling evidence that these reports provide a significant amount of new information to investors. Further analysis of a subset of common metrics indicates that they are either financially immaterial or preempted by traditional …

Reproduction And Embryonic Development Of Monkeyface Prickleback Cebidichthys Violaceus In Captivity, Kevin D. Hinterman, Matthew R. Hoehn, Luke D. Gardner, Scott L. Hamilton

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Understanding the sequence of embryonic and larval development and the factors necessary to induce reproduction in captivity are critical for developing new species for commercial or conservation aquaculture. In this study, we describe the adult reproductive behaviours and development of eggs, embryos and early larvae of captive monkeyface pricklebacks, Cebidicthys violaceus, compared to previously documented wild observations. Eggs were laid in cohesive clutches and guarded by the male parent until hatching began 23 days post fertilization at 13°C. Fertilized eggs were spherical, approximately 1.5 mm in diameter, covered in an opaque chorion, and contained six adhesive pads around the outside. …

The Interactive Effects Of Negative Life Events, Cortisol Reactivity, And Gender On Psychological Distress Among Emerging Adults, Li Shen Chong, Teresa Mejia, Kate L. Senich, Christy L. Olezeski, Elana B. Gordis

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Negative life events are associated with the development of psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and traumatic stress symptoms. Evidence suggests that individual differences in stress response system activity may alter susceptibility to psychological distress for those with exposure to negative life events. In particular, women experience greater levels of psychological distress than men. Given that emerging adulthood is characterized by stressful, significant life transitions that may constitute risks for psychological distress, this study examined whether hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity and gender influenced the link between negative life events and psychological distress among emerging adults. Participants ( N = 176; mean …

Observing System Needs For Understanding Carbon–Climate Feedbacks, Dustin Carroll, Nicholas C. Parazoo, Nicole S. Lovenduski, Michael Keller, David S. Schimel, A. Anthony Bloom

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Carbon–climate (CC) feedbacks — arising from response of land and ocean carbon sinks to elevated CO2 and climate warming — are critical yet highly uncertain drivers of Earth’s climate trajectory. Processes such as permafrost thaw, tropical forest dieback, reduced ocean uptake, and intensifying climate extremes are already weakening natural carbon sinks, with potential to amplify warming and accelerate crossing of tipping points. Detecting and quantifying these dynamics requires sustained, high-resolution, spatially-comprehensive Earth Observations. Drawing on outcomes from a 2024 community workshop, we identify three core priorities for advancing CC feedback monitoring: (1) frequent, long-term measurements of carbon fluxes and stocks …

Semi-Automated Extraction Of Active Fire Edges From Tactical Infrared Observations Of Wildfires, Christopher C. Giesige, Eric Goldbeck-Dimon, Andrew Klofas, Mario Miguel Valero

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Highlights: What are the main findings? This article presents an image processing method to semi-automatically track wildfire progression. The algorithm was successfully applied to aerial infrared imagery acquired during tactical fire management operations. What are the implications of the main finding? These results illustrate how tactical data can be used in fire behavior studies. The proposed method may facilitate real-time analysis of tactical information during wildfire emergencies. Remote sensing of wildland fires has become an integral part of fire science. Airborne sensors provide high spatial resolution and can provide high temporal resolution, enabling fire behavior monitoring at fine scales. Fire …

How E-Scooters Impact Shared Mobility And Consumer Safety, Ruichun Liu, Unnati Narang

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

New forms of shared micromobility services, such as e-scooters, are growing rapidly across cities. However, their impact beyond the retail and restaurant sectors is less understood in the marketing literature. The authors examine how the entry of e-scooters impacts other incumbent shared mobility services (i.e., ride-sharing and bike-sharing) and consumer safety (i.e., crimes) using data on the entry of e-scooters in parts of Chicago in 2019 and a generalized synthetic control approach. The results show that the entry of e-scooters increases the number of short rideshare trips by 15.72% but decreases the number of bikeshare trips by 7.62%. The effects …

Spartan Daily, October 23, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 27

Spartan Daily, October 22, 2025, San Jose State University, School Of Journalism And Mass Communications

Spartan Daily, 2025

Volume 165, Issue 26

Tracking Removed And At-Risk Government Information, Molly Blake, Sanga Sung, Ben Amata, Jenny Mcburney

SJSU Open Access Conference

The current U.S. administration is intentionally undermining public access to information as well as scholarly research by removing documents, reports, datasets, images, and language from government websites. In doing so, this administration is withholding publicly-funded information that we have a right to access, including data from government-sponsored research, historical information about marginalized groups, and speech transcripts. In removing these materials, the government is also deliberately sabotaging research related to topics it does not like, such as LGBTQ health, COVID, and climate change.

It is difficult to grasp the scope of this problem: how do we know when something is gone, …

Access Denied: Defending Research In A Shrinking Scholarly Landscape, Emily Kingsland

SJSU Open Access Conference

In early 2025, the U.S. Department of Education announced a reduction in the indexing of key journals in the ERIC database. As government censorship increasingly threatens the accessibility of educational research, librarians are emerging as critical defenders of open access and research transparency. This presentation reports on the proactive efforts of a Canadian academic librarian who developed actionable workarounds to address the disappearance of articles from ERIC. These missing records pose a significant challenge to researchers conducting knowledge syntheses, who face a reporting and reproducibility crisis when search results fluctuate or shrink without explanation. The implications are profound: systematic reviews …

Navigating Nih’S Revised Public Access Policy: On-The-Ground Experiences From Librarians And Researchers, Anneliese Taylor, Katie Fortney, Tim Vollmer

SJSU Open Access Conference

The U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) rolled out its revised Public Access Policy on July 1, 2025, in accordance with the 2022 Office of Science and Technology Policy Nelson Memo. The Nelson Memo calls on all U.S. federal funders to implement a policy requiring immediate public access to published articles and supporting datasets resulting from federal grants. On the surface, NIH’s new policy is a public good, ensuring that federally funded research outputs will no longer be held back from public access for 12 months after publication. But the implementation mechanisms of this new policy for researchers and publishers …

Contextualizing Introductory Computer Science: Insights From African Faculty, Ethel Tshukudu, Ismaila Temitayo Sanusi, Oluwakemi Ola, Sally Hamouda, Linda Marshall, Oluwatoyin Adelakun-Adeyemo, Emma R. Dodoo, G. Ayorkor Korsah, Sandani Luvhengo, Jack Parkinson

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Contextualizing computer science education has been recognized as a key factor in enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes. This study investigates the initial perceptions of university computer science faculty in Africa regarding the benefits, adoption challenges, and institutional support required for the successful integration of contextually relevant materials into introductory computer science (CS1) courses. Faculty then assessed a set of previously developed contextually tailored materials, grounded in Banks' Additive Approach to curriculum reform and aligned to the CS curricula 2023. The research adopted qualitative methods, gathering data through open-ended surveys from 22 CS faculty across 9 African countries. Thematic analysis …

Exploring The Role Of Culture And Bilingualism In Programming Activities: Lessons From African Educators, Emma R. Dodoo, Katharine Childs, Ethel Tshukudu

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

The delivery of culturally relevant content in K-12 computing education is widely recognized as essential for engaging students and fostering meaningful learning experiences. However, in many African contexts, K-12 computing teachers feel unprepared to address this need. Course materials often fail to reflect the cultural and linguistic diversity of the students they serve. In this study, we conducted participatory design sessions with education stakeholders, including primary and secondary school teachers, to develop culturally relevant programming activities for a national programming outreach initiative in Botswana. Our findings emphasize the importance of relatable examples and a balanced approach to integrating cultural elements …

High-Stakes Exams Inflate A Gender Gap And Contribute To Systematic Grading Errors In One Introductory Physics Series, David J. Webb, Cassandra Paul

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Previous research has suggested that changing the percentage of the course grade associated with exam grades in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics courses can change the gender gap in the course. It has also been shown that high-stakes assessments yield the lowest (relative) scores for female students. Previous research by the authors has shown that implementing retake exams can eliminate the gender gap in introductory physics courses. This paper explores several different hypotheses for why retake exams are associated with a zeroed gender gap. Two independent measurements comparing exams with different stakes are used in support of the argument that …

An Investigation Of Corrective Approaches For Uncertain Winds And Analysis Of Impacts On Smoke Model Performance, Zongrun Li, Susan M. O'Neill, Rime El Asmar, Yongtao Hu, Adam K. Kochanski, Angel Farguell, Jan Mandel, David J. Tanner, L. Gregory Huey, Armistead G. Russell, Rodney J. Weber, M. Talat Odman

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

In wildland fires, wind affects fire propagation, emission intensity, and smoke transport; therefore, uncertainties in wind simulations can critically impact PM2.5 concentration produced by coupled fire-atmosphere models or chemical transport models. These uncertainties must be addressed prior to assessing other parameters that may affect model-predicted PM2.5 concentrations through comparisons with observations. This study simulated prescribed fire events with accurate ignition pattern design and high spatial-temporal resolutions using the coupled fire-atmosphere model WRF-SFIRE. We designed, implemented, and evaluated various wind bias reduction and smoke model evaluation methods to quantitatively capture the impacts of wind uncertainty on simulated smoke concentrations. For the …