Digital Commons Network^™

Designing Dignified Spaces: A Holistic Approach To Addressing Homelessness Among Children And Families, Megan Clark

Interior Design Capstones

In the face of the persistent and complex issue of homelessness in America, this project aims to reimagine the landscape for children and families facing housing insecurity. Seeking to tackle the problem at its roots by establishing resource hubs.

By innovatively establishing central resource hubs, the primary objective is to create dignified spaces connecting individuals with vital resources. This hub goes beyond being a mere refuge; it is envisioned as a dynamic center where individuals access essential services, receive mentorship, and rebuild a sense of belonging.

Given the ongoing urgency of homelessness, this project’s efforts strive to make a meaningful …

An Examination Of Specific Learning Disability Identification Post Participation In The Michigan Department Of Education Transformation Zone, Erin E. Senkowski

Dissertations

The identification of students with specific learning disabilities has evolved since the reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) in 2004. This reauthorization gave state agencies parameters that disallowed using the severe discrepancy model for identification as a stand-alone method. In response to this change, Michigan provided Intermediate and local school districts with further guidance that disallowed the use of the severe discrepancy model for identifying children with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLDs) and instead required Intermediate School Districts, on behalf of their local districts, to choose one of three models, including Patterns of Strengths and Weakness (PSW), …

Speech Language Pathologists’ Confidence And Preparedness Working With Clients With Hearing Loss, Katherine Rosa Giustino

Masters Theses

Speech language pathologists (SLP) are professionals who may work with clients with hearing loss. With hearing loss, there are many devices, such as hearing aids, that must be functioning to provide effective speech and language therapy. Therefore, SLPs must be familiar with how to check and maintain these devices to provide optimal therapy. However, it is unknown how confident SLPs are with working with such devices. Data from a Qualtrics survey with questions that assess SLPs’ confidence in working with hearing assistive devices and communicating effectively with individuals with hearing loss was analyzed.

Overall, this study found confidence across all …

Elle, Cadence Joan Warr

Waldo Library Student Exhibits

No abstract provided.

Something To Look At On Bad Days, Shahana Afsar

Waldo Library Student Exhibits

No abstract provided.

Comparison Of Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization And Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry For The Direct Analysis Of Hops Bittering Compounds, Chhiring Sherpa

Masters Theses

Hops acids are essential components in the beer brewing process containing alpha acids (α-acids) and beta acids (β-acids) as the major hops bittering compounds. Quantifying these acids is vital for quality control and determining bitterness levels and hops variety profiles. Current industry standards, like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV) and Ultraviolet Spectroscopy (UV-Vis), though effective, are time-consuming and solvent-intensive, providing incomplete information.

This research introduces a novel method using mass spectrometry with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI-MS) to analyze hops bittering acids without chromatographic separations. This approach offers rapid analysis, high throughput, and eco-friendliness.

Comparison with direct electrospray …

Principals Staying In Concentrated Poverty School Districts: Voices From Within, Mark Wilke

Dissertations

School principals are facing an increase in demand and challenges from district, state, and federal agencies for improvements both behaviorally and academically. Each year, more school principals exit their positions for other professions. The concentrated poverty school districts have been hit the hardest by this exodus.

The purpose of this basic qualitative study is to examine why some principals within concentrated poverty school districts remain in their positions, especially when they are located near other districts with much lower poverty concentrations. The factors of interest are issues such as district leadership support for principals, compensation, climate and culture of the …

Social Media Journalism And Its Impact On Social Change: The Case Of Twitter(X), Daniel Ebo

Masters Theses

Journalism has evolved over the years, embracing the changes that come with technological advancement. Traditional journalism has converged with digital media to provide easier and accessible ways of news production and distribution. Twitter (now X) has become a major medium for advocacy in recent years, with people trending hashtags to get the needed attention for social change, notable among them being #BlackLivesMatter, #EndSARS in Nigeria and more recently, a hashtag to reverse mandatory wearing of hijab by women in Iran. Several studies have interrogated the impacts of social media on journalism, but less has been studied on specific mediums and …

Bringing About Modernity: A Comparative Study Of Urban Development In Korea That Connects East Germany And The Two Koreas, Junghyun Kim

Masters Theses

This study builds upon the theories of architectural modernism advocated by the International Congress of Modern Architects (CIAM) and Le Corbusier as well as previous studies regarding East German experts being sent abroad to assist in urban development and modernizing schemes of non-European countries. This study examines the East German assistance in the reconstruction of the North Korean city of Hamhung and how North Korea absorbed the ideas of urban modernization advocated by the Soviet Bloc architects. Then the study will shift in focus to look across the border in South Korea which was influenced by a similar idea which …

Design And Simulation Of Flow Channel Of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (Pemfc), Rishya Shringhan Ravichandran

Masters Theses

In Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC), flow channel plays an important role on the performance of the cell. This study mainly focuses on the simulation of flow channel under various conditions. A three-dimensional mode of PEMFC with 25cm² of active area was employed to simulate the flow channel of PEMFC which has various designs. The flow channel designs such as single serpentine, bi-serpentine and tri-serpentine channels were investigated using ANSYS FLUENT software. Initially, the flow channel width of 2mm was examined. The obtained results were compared to the experimental data to validate the model. Then, the dimension of …

Reimagining Comfort: Designing For Climate Resilience, Dissinger

Capstone Projects

In a world undergoing constant transformation, driven by factors like extensive CO2 emissions since the Industrial Revolution, the impacts of greenhouse gases are irreversible, necessitating innovative solutions to confront global warming. Adapting to a progressively warmer planet presents unforeseen challenges, from shifting ecosystems to heightened vulnerability to natural disasters, and rising global temperatures.

The solution lies in the creation of a harmonious structure that fuses nature and technology, fostering self-sufficiency and compassion for the climate crisis. This structure aspires to be a paragon of eco-consciousness, adorned with entirely recyclable materials and integrated green systems, promoting sustainability. In a departure from …

Reconnect: The Importance Of Beauty Within Architecture, Rebekah Lueck

Interior Design Capstones

In a world where secular design has become the norm, this project addresses the profound disconnect individuals experience in modern spaces. This research investigates the impact of contemporary design principles on user well-being and the built environment. It explores how secularism and modern design have contributed to this disconnect and alienation, and further how reforming a classical view and approach of architecture and design contribute to its remedy.

The integration of classical architecture not only offers an aesthetic and functional solution but also serves as a powerful response to the negative impacts of the fragmented view that has been embraced …

Beneath The Waves, Meredith Bol

Interior Design Capstones

In an age marked by technological advancements and a growing need for meaningful human-nature connections, aquariums and conservation programs stand as unique platforms for enhancing both education and human wellbeing. This design will dive into the conceptualization of interactive exhibits within aquariums, focusing on their potential to enrich visitor experiences and contribute to human wellbeing. By blending innovative technology, immersive environments, and educational narratives, aquariums can transform into dynamic spaces that not only showcase marine diversity but also actively engage visitors through these elements.

Intellectual: The aquarium space is meticulously designed to cater to varying intellectual levels, achieved through a …

From Healing To Happiness, Lauren Hannah

Interior Design Capstones

Animal shelters play a crucial role in providing care and rehabilitation for stray or abandoned dogs. However, there is a growing understanding that rethinking the conventional role of animal shelters can lead to significant improvements in the lives of dogs through specialized behavioral therapy and rehabilitation programs. By implementing these programs, shelters have the potential to regenerate and transform dogs’ lives, enabling them to overcome behavioral challenges and increasing their chances of finding loving adoptive homes.

The focus of these initiatives is to heal and nurture the dogs’ behaviors, addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to their arrival in …

Eduscape Shaping Tomorrow’S Leaders Through The Lens Of Neuroarchitectural Design, Viktoryia Shauchuk

Interior Design Capstones

Interior spaces hold undeniable significance; hence, the project advocates for a design rooted in well-being. The “EduScape” project seeks to redefine the design of K-8 schools by integrating an applied approach that prioritizes student well-being, safety, and the seamless blending of indoor and outdoor spaces. In an era where there is a heightened awareness of comprehensive wellness the physical environment cannot be ignored as it significantly influences a child’s emotional, mental, and physical development. Because the physical environment plays a pivotal role in shaping a child’s emotional, mental, and physical development, it is necessary to transform the landscape of educational …

Clinical Improvisation In Music Therapy For Children And Adolescents: A Scoping Review, Pui-Shan Yung,

Capstone Projects

Clinical improvisation is frequently used in music therapy sessions, as a nonthreatening means to facilitate free expression and address various non-musical goals. Among the existing research on the effectiveness of clinical improvisation in children and adolescents, there was lacking a specific implementation process. This scoping review identified 5 articles on the Western Michigan University library search engine, investigating the use of clinical improvisation with children and adolescents. The studies were summarized to include participant characteristics, improvisation intervention/ methods, themes, and outcomes. The quality of intervention reporting in each article was assessed using the music-based intervention reporting criteria and listed each …

Cityscapes And Classrooms, Sheridan Britney

Capstone Projects

This analysis explores the complex interplay between Detroit’s infrastructure development, the city’s education system, and their correlation with the historical phenomena of urban sprawl. The city of Detroit has witnessed significant demographic shifts over the decades, driven by factors such as racial tension, socioeconomic disparities, and changing urban landscapes.

The expansion and evolution of Detroit’s roadways has been central to this transformation, which have shaped both physical and social aspects of the city. This study delves into how these transportation networks have contributed to, and in some cases exacerbated, disparities in educational opportunities, access, and quality within the city. It …

The Sounds Between Lordran And Yharnam: Exploring Motivic Recontextualization In Non-Linear Narratives, Tré Bryant

Masters Theses

In this thesis I argue that the music of the Dark Souls trilogy, Bloodborne, and Elden Ring play a vital role in the player’s capacity to form an understanding of the narrative, examining how musical coding and visual association work for and play against expectations. First, this thesis will analyze the musical styles of each game, identifying commonalities in the compositions. Second, I will explore a case study from each game that illustrates how the music alleviates ambiguity in the narrative. Lastly, the thesis will discuss how players often form their own slightly different interpretations of the stories and lore …

Existential Crisis (Or The Art Of Buying A Guitar), Maxwell Miller

Masters Theses

Existential Crisis (or the Art of Buying a Guitar) is an audio-visual creative project consisting of three works for guitar, voice, and electronics. I perform them using a real-time audio manipulation program developed in the open-source programming language, SuperCollider, with live video projection created in the open-source programming language, Processing. The title comes from grappling with internal expectations, questions of purpose, and the absurdity of being a thinking, sensing creature, which are recurring themes in my life. When these feelings come into sharp focus, it is sometimes overwhelming, but I believe that processing these feelings through art is an innately …

Spatial Patterns Of Women Enrolled In Undergraduate Higher Education Coursework In The Us From 2010 To 2020., Dorcaslove Naa Oyo Quartey

Masters Theses

Higher education in the United States has witnessed a significant transformation over the years, characterized by a positive change in women’s enrollment across colleges and universities. Despite significant gains in recent decades, differences in women's participation to higher education persist across the United States. This may be due to several reasons. This thesis investigates the spatial patterns of women's enrollment in undergraduate higher education coursework across the United States from 2010 to 2020. As women's participation in higher education has become increasingly pivotal for societal progress, understanding the geographical distribution of their enrollment provides critical insights into regional disparities. Employing …

Maize Production In Ghana: A Case Study Of Asante Akim North Municipality, Vincent Osei

Masters Theses

In spite of the numerous benefits of maize production in Ghana, its production is faced with a lot of challenges leading to production losses. Asante Akim North Municipality is one of the largest maize-producing areas in Ghana. However, studies on maize and its production in this municipality are under-researched, hence the need for this study. The main objective of the study is to analyze a 10-year (2013-2022) production trend of maize in Asante Akim North Municipality to identify factors affecting maize production in the municipality, so as to seek pragmatic measures to help improve maize yields in the municipality and …

The Correlates Of Neurobiology And Lived Experiences Of Music-Induced Bonding, Empathy, And Shared Flow, Ashley Marie Sherwood

Masters Theses

An alarming decline in mental health and increase in addiction and substance use disorders over the last few decades have generated increased interest in exploring how improved social health in the community could be a protective factor against mental health crises. Interventions which increase perceived emotional synchrony and shared flow may positively impact the social fabric of society. This paper examines the relationship between self-reported perceptions of emotional synchrony and shared flow and changes in measures of cortisol, dopamine, oxytocin, and vasopressin in blood samples following musical improvisation, with a review of relevant literature also presented. Vasopressin was found to …

All Is Flux For Solo Vibraphone And Fixed Media, Ethan Stearley

Masters Theses

“All is Flux” is a composition for solo amplified vibraphone and fixed media. The title is derived from a quote by the Greek philosopher Heraclitus- “All is flux, nothing remains still.” While a traditional score will be provided to the performer for the purposes of preparation and analysis, a video score that is synchronized to the fixed media audio elements will be used in the final performance. This moving score should be visible only to the performer, not the audience. The composition serves as a practical demonstration of experimentation on structure in tandem with elements drawn from narrative theory. Additionally, …

Evaluation Of Dietary Probiotic Supplements On Methamphetamine-Induced Impulsive Action In Rats Maintained On A Differential Reinforcement Of Low Rate Schedule, Kaitlyn Steck

Masters Theses

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a chronic, debilitating condition often comorbid with anxiety and depression. Both SUD and affective disorders are characterized by cognitive dysfunction, including impaired decision-making and impulsivity. A mounting body of research implicates gut microbiome alterations as a contributing factor to the pathophysiology of affective disorders. No published studies have assessed behavioral effects of dietary interventions targeting psychostimulant-induced gut microbiome changes. The present study utilized a differential reinforcement of low rate responding schedule (DRL 18 s) as a behavioral index of drug-induced impulsive action to determine if a dietary probiotic supplement alters the behavioral effects of (+)-methamphetamine …

Teaching Classification Of Environmental Events In Narrative Abc Data Using Video-Based Behavioral Skills Training, Grace E. Sylvester

Masters Theses

Behavior analysts often conduct ABC assessments as part of a functional behavior assessment to develop a hypothesis about the function of behavior and to help guide further treatment decisions. Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence (ABC) assessment is a descriptive assessment technique used to gather information about environmental events surrounding a specific behavioral event (i.e., antecedents and consequences). ABC assessment involves several analytical skills, including classifying antecedents and consequences. There is little to no research available on how to effectively train individuals how to classify environmental events within narrative ABC assessment. It is important that behavior analysts correctly classify events in ABC assessments to increase …

Hydrophobic Deep Eutectic Solvents: Liquid-Liquid Extraction Of Organic Water Pollutants, Abigail Louise Maletta

Masters Theses

Pollution is a topic of significant research within the scientific community. The massive demand for industrial processes to deliver the technology and resources we rely on has opened numerous avenues for pollutants to enter the environment, affecting air, water, soil, and the food chain. Oftentimes, these pathways are intertwined, and the interplay between water and air currents spreads pollution globally, creating a cascade of environmental impacts. Water, a vital resource for all forms of life, is particularly susceptible to industrial pollution. Among the most prevalent water pollutants are heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, and organic compounds, often released …

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Spirit Marches West: An Application Of Hegel’S Historical Methodology To The American Frontier, Magnus Imber

Masters Theses

The philosophy of history developed by Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel incorporates the systematicity and speculative rationalizations that characterize his other major philosophical endeavors. Despite this, far less investigative work has been directed toward the contemporary applicability of Hegel’s philosophy of history than has been for his other major projects. Considering scholars’ much-diminished interest in speculative, overarching accounts of world history, this is not particularly surprising. Given, however, that the concept of rational historical progress is central to Hegel’s system, the contemporary applicability of the Hegelian conception of history seems to be a matter of significant importance. Can the methodology that …

Spatiotemporal Changes Of Urban Growth And Particulate Matter2.5 Concentrations: A Regional Study Using Gis-Remote Sensing Techniques, Mizanur Rahman

Masters Theses

Rapid urbanization and its environmental repercussions present profound challenges for developing countries. This study investigates the spatiotemporal relationship between urban growth and airborne particulate matter (PM_2.5) concentrations in four upazilas of Bangladesh from 2001 to 2019. Utilizing GIS and remote sensing techniques, this research explores the transitions in land cover and their impact on air quality, focusing on the escalating levels of PM_2.5 — a critical pollutant associated with numerous health risks. The study delineated land cover changes using satellite imagery; PM_2.5 concentration levels were derived from NASA's Socioeconomic Data and Applications Center while ground-truthing validated …

Network Level Detection Of Iot Attacks Via Time Series Shape Mining, Srijani Basu

Masters Theses

This research proposes a method, for detecting intrusions in the Internet of Things (IoT) realm. This approach was specifically tested using datasets containing both benign, and attacks on smart home devices like the Belkin Wemo Power Switch, Lifx Smart Bulb, Amazon Echo, and Netatmo Welcome Camera. These attacks consist of specification-compliant volumetric DDoS attacks, which can be both direct and reflective, with very low traffic volumes implemented in an ON-OFF pattern. Here, the ON-OFF pattern can be referred to as a pulse attack strategy.

We combined non-linear statistical moving averages, and Dynamic Time Warping into a single framework that can …