Digital Commons Network^™

De Novo Design Approaches Toward The Development Of Artificial Cu Proteins (Arcups) For Activation Of Small Molecules With Functional Relevance To Cu Monooxygenases, Divyansh Prakash

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Metalloenzymes catalyze various redox reactions in biogeochemical cycles involved in energy conversion. Our research focuses on Cu-based metalloenzymes, which perform diverse functions in nature and play a crucial role in substrate activation, energy conversion such as oxidizing methane to methanol by particulate methane monooxygenases (pMMOs), and biomass degradation by lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs), useful in biofuel production. However, much is unknown about how the active site and secondary/tertiary-sphere interactions in these enzymes determine their function. De novo protein design enables the creation of simpler model systems that closely resemble the structure and function of native enzymes. Using de novo protein …

A Qualitative Examination Of The Interplay Of Attachment Styles, The Supervisory Relationship & Counseling Self-Efficacy, Kamiron Ball Tran

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This phenomenological qualitative study explores the intricate dynamics between attachment styles, the supervisory relationship, and counseling self-efficacy among supervisory dyads in counseling. The findings reveal five themes: supervision is relational, supervision is a therapeutic space, security within supervision bolsters self-efficacy, supervision is a mirror for clinical practice, and the nuanced "both/and" nature of attachment and self-efficacy dynamics. This study addresses a gap in the literature by offering qualitative insights into the interplay of attachment styles, supervisory relationship, and counselor self-efficacy, thus contributing to a deeper understanding of the complexities within supervisory practices in counseling.

The Value Of Empathy For Teachers In Nontraditional Classrooms, Mindy Clair Waldrop

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Little is known about the experience of teachers in nontraditional classrooms, particularly those in Juvenile Detention Centers (JDCs). Using the tenets of hermeneutic phenomenology this study interpreted the lived experience of teachers in nontraditional classrooms. Hermeneutic principles involve using texts, including interview transcripts, to develop understanding and interpret meaning. Following interviews with teachers currently practicing in the JDC nontraditional classroom setting, the researcher engaged in the hermeneutic circle of understanding, which requires an ongoing commitment to the attitude of hermeneutic phenomenology and reflection (Alsaigh & Coyne, 2021). Four themes emerged as significant to the experience of teachers and their use …

Development And Evaluation Of A Retrofittable Variable Rate Applicator Controller, Ahmed Abdalla

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The need to optimize resource utilization while increasing crop productivity is paramount. This research proposes a Low-cost Retrofittable Variable Rate Applicator Controller (VRAC) that aims to leverage the adoption of Variable Rate Technologies. The controller operates via the Raspberry Pi platform, a Global Positioning System (GPS), a stepper motor drive, and an anti-slip wheel encoder. The VRAC allows precise, on-the-fly control of variable-rate application of farming inputs. It utilizes GPS with 10 cm accuracy to pinpoint geographic coordinates in real-time. A wheel encoder measures traveling speed with a slip-resistant wheel design for precise RPM readings. The Raspberry processes the data, …

Competition Between Bradyrhizobium Strains For Soybean Nodulation, Lilia Ernestina Montanez Hernandez

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Biological Nitrogen Fixation (BNF) has surged as a natural strategy to provide available nitrogen to crops by taking advantage of diazotrophs, microorganisms that can reduce atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia. Soybean, a major crop, greatly benefits from BNF by forming endosymbiotic relationships with rhizobacteria from the genus Bradyrhizobium, which culminates in the formation of specialized organs called nodules, where nitrogen fixation occurs. This is known as Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation (SNF). Inoculation of soybean fields with high nitrogen fixing Bradyrhizobium strains to stimulate SNF is being used as a strategy to increase crop productivity and nitrogen content. However, in North America, SNF …

Impact Of Solar Radiation On Perchlorate Formation In The Atmosphere: Evidence From Ice Core Measurements, Bishnu Kunwar

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Perchlorate, which derives from both anthropogenic and natural sources in the current environment, poses a substantial health hazard to humans as it competes with iodine uptake in the thyroid gland. Consequently, there has been considerable concern about minimizing human exposure to environmental perchlorate by restricting its release from man-made sources. However, the absence of a clear understanding regarding the respective contributions of man-made and natural sources has hindered widespread regulation efforts. A 300-year (1700–2007) Summit, Greenland ice core record from a previous study showed relatively stable perchlorate concentrations in Greenland snow prior to 1980, with some elevated perchlorate levels associated …

Developing Machine Learning Models For Selection Of Management Zones, Sravanthi Bachina

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Soil sampling and analyses play a crucial role in optimizing nutrient management and enhancing crop productivity. However, collecting representative samples across diverse landscapes is challenging due to knowledge gaps about spatial variability of soil properties, large fields, multiple samples, and analysis costs. Collecting soil samples based on the management zones can help farmers gather precise information about soil properties with fewer samples. Recent developments in precision agriculture and machine learning. This study aimed to develop machine learning models that can learn, analyze, and refine landscape and soil properties data for automated selection of soil sampling zones and generating prediction maps. …

The Effects Of Degradation On Pla When Combined With Additives In A Single Screw Extruder, Jack Koester

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Mechanical Testing Of Novel Biopolymers For The Replacement Of Petroleum-Based Plastic Hay Bale Net Wrapping, Logan Wolf

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this thesis is to test biopolymers synthesized from oilseeds or produced from agricultural wastes for large bale net wrapping as a viable alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics (PBP). The goal is to test and assess novel polymers to guide the synthesis of a benign biodegradable polymer. Biobased net wrapping will significantly reduce ingestion of PBPs in animals such as ruminants to improve digestive health and minimize cattle loss due to plastic disease. Biobased plastics will also achieve partial or complete breakdown shortly after service without depositing microplastics in the environment. This will reduce the risk of damage …

Climate Change Adaptation For Embankment Through Biogeotechnics, Debayan Ghosh

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Problematic soil like expansive soil, and frost-susceptible soil causes significant damage to civil infrastructure. The use of calcium-based stabilizers in the treatment of sulfate-rich expansive soils is not suggested due to the formation of ettringite. Infrastructure such as pavements and embankments built on expansive soil are often exposed to the damaging impacts of freeze-thaw cycles in areas prone to seasonal freezing making them vulnerable to cracking and spalling. In this study, a native expansive soil from South Dakota with a sulfate content of more than 10,000 ppm was stabilized using biopolymer and cement. The experimental study investigated the strength and …

The Effects Of Temperature, Flooding, And Goose Feces Addition On Greenhouse Gas Emissions And Ammonification In Four High-Latitude Soils From Western Alaska, Jenna M. Ross

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The large carbon (C) stock of wetlands is vulnerable to climate change, especially in high latitudes that are warming at a disproportional rate. Likewise, low-elevation Arctic coastal areas will flood more frequently under climate change and sea-level rise, which may alter goose herbivory and fecal deposition patterns if geese move inland. While temperature, flooding, and feces impact soil C emissions, their interactive effects have been rarely studied. Here, I explore the impact of these interactions on CO2 and CH4 emissions and nitrogen (N) mineralization (ammonification) in soils collected from four plant communities in the Yukon-Kuskokwim (Y-K) Delta, a high latitude …

Effects Of Low-Cost, Low-Tech Tools For Riparian Restoration On Prairie Streams In Western South Dakota, James Andrew Joseph Bolyard

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Despite making up less than two percent of the overall landscape in the arid and semi-arid western US, riparian areas are a crucial resource for agriculture, livestock, and wildlife. However, many have impaired function and reduced riparian cover. Low-Cost, Low-Tech Tools (LCLTT) are a subset of Process-Based Restoration (PBR) used for riparian restoration that were chosen for their cost-effectiveness and minimal technical requirements. LCLTT has been tested in mountainous areas of the western US but only recently implemented in the Northern Great Plains (NGP). Given their novelty as an approach toward restoration for the region, professional restoration and landowner communities …

Near-Real-Time Monitoring Of Crop Progress At Field Scales By Fusing Observations From Both Polar-Orbiting And Geostationary Satellites, Yu Shen

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Development Of Innovative Flocculation Technologies For Agricultural Water Treatment, Noor Haleem

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The development of innovative flocculation technologies is essential for addressing the challenges of agricultural water treatment. These technologies play a crucial role in removing contaminants such as suspended solids and nutrients, thereby ensuring safer water for irrigation and livestock consumption. By enhancing water quality and wastewater management, they contribute significantly to environmental sustainability and public health in agricultural communities. This comprehensive thesis extensively explores various dimensions of flocculation, with a focused effort on methodologies and resources aimed at strengthening sustainability and efficiency. A pivotal aspect of the research involves synthesizing cationic starch (CS), a flocculant derived from an underutilized resource, …

Advancing Biological Applications Through Microfluidic-Based Tool Development, K.M. Taufiqur Rahman

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This research undertook an interdisciplinary approach, integrating bioengineering, microbiology, molecular biology, and systems biology to investigate bacterial dynamics behavior. Specifically, it delved into the development of microfluidic devices for biological applications such as bacterial cell counts, real-time observation of plant roots (here, specialized lectin-coated microbeads are used that mimic root characteristics), and soil microbe interactions. Furthermore, Next-Generation Sequencing and systems biology methodologies were employed to explore the intricate, multifaceted survival mechanisms of Escherichia coli persister population. Studying and quantifying persisters or testing for the existence of VBNC (viable but nonculturable) is challenging. These experiments require precise counts. It has been …

Parametric Study Of Protodune - I And Protodune - Ii Single-Phase Neutrino Detectors Using Computational Fluid Dynamics, Sahil Sharma

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models of two designs of ProtoDUNE single-phase neutrino detectors were developed, refined, and analyzed. These detectors are prototypes for the full-sized far detectors that are part of the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE), an international research collaboration aimed at better understanding of neutrinos and the role they play in our universe. Representative simplified models of the complex geometries of the prototype detectors were created using commercial modeling software, Dassault System’s SolidWorks, and these simplified models were imported to the commercial CFD program SimCenter Star-CCM+®. The baseline parameters including inlet temperatures, ambient temperature, electronic heat load, liquid …

Open-Source Frameworks For Groundwater Analytics: Advancing Machine Learning Workflow Development And Deployment, Sarva Pulla

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation introduces three innovative tools to advance groundwater analytics: the GRACE Downscaler, Synthetic Timeseries Generator, and a lightweight web-based service for deploying machine learning and physical models. These tools address critical challenges in groundwater management by enhancing the local applicability of GRACE satellite data, overcoming data scarcity through synthetic generation, and simplifying the deployment of complex hydrological models. The GRACE Downscaler provides a reproducible workflow for regional groundwater analysis, while the Synthetic Timeseries Generator creates opportunities for model development in data-poor regions. The web-based service demonstrates how advanced models like MODFLOW can be made accessible for rapid simulations and …

Regional Differences In The Adoption Of Automated License Plate Readers Among Police Departments, Dalton Lee Massingill

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Since the 2000s, the adoption of License Plate Readers (LPRs) in the United States has steadily increased. Prior research has shown that agency characteristics (mainly size) strongly impact the likelihood of LPR usage. However, researchers have primarily examined larger police departments and used smaller samples in examining the adoption of LPRs. This study uses recent data from a nationally represented sample of law enforcement agencies to examine the relationship between agency geographical location and LPR usage. The current study extends past literature by examining the impact an agency’s geographical location has on LPR usage. Research has not studied if LPR …

Isolation Of Novel Myxobacteria And Progress Towards Heterologous Expression Of Uncharacterized Secondary Metabolites, Andrew Ahearne

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Myxobacteria, first observed by Roland Thaxter in the late 19th century, are known for their unique swarming behavior, complex fruiting body formation and biosynthetic potential. Myxobacteria are noted for their large genomes and the presence of numerous biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) that hint at their potential to produce novel metabolites with therapeutic properties. Isolation of myxobacteria utilizing E. coli and filter paper baiting yielded 20 myxobacteria isolated from rhizospheric soil samples in North America. Among these isolates, nine were identified as novel species, representing the genera Archangium, Myxococcus, Nannocystis, Polyangium, Pyxidicoccus, Sorangium, and Stigmatella. Comprehensive growth profiles, biochemical assays, and …

Particle Image Velocimetry Investigation Of A Novel Structure Within A Turbulent Boundary Layer, Tyler Jesse Moore

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

In the provided thesis, turbulent statistics over a novel additive surface structure are studied within a fully-developed turbulent channel flow at ReƬ ≈ 380. Experimental data is gathered in a purpose-built 3D-printed wind channel which allows for 2D Particle Image Velocimetry. The Multi Jet Fusion 3D-printed additive structure, consisting of two side walls and a top wall, is analyzed for its flow control capabilities. Potential desirable flow control outputs include localized flow acceleration, deceleration, and vortex generation. The proposed structure is configurable by manipulating the structure’s height and the angle of attack of the side and top walls. Heights of …

Efficient Design Of Neural Network Hardware Accelerator For Enhanced Performance In Deep Learning Systems, Tamador Nadem Mohaidat

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Artificial intelligence (AI) hardware accelerator is an emerging research for several applications and domains. The hardware accelerator aims to provide high computational speed while retaining low cost and high learning performance. The main challenge is to design complex machine learning models on hardware with high performance. In this thesis, the aim is to develop the hardware implementation of perceptron within a neural network. Innovative hardware-based approaches are explored to optimize perceptron networks, enhancing accuracy, reliability, and fault tolerance while minimizing resource requirements and power consumption.

A thorough investigation into machine learning accelerators and associated challenges was initially conducted. The hardware …

Optimizing The Performance Of Polyimide And Polyetherimide Nanocomposites Against Atomic Oxygen Attack And/Or Hypervelocity Impact, Grace Rushing

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

As humanity continues to push the boundaries of exploration beyond Earth, the need to develop materials that can withstand this harsh environment increases. Two types of materials were exposed to the low earth orbit (LEO) space environment on the International Space Station (ISS) for one year: (1) polyimide composites enhanced with polyhedral oligomeric silsequioxane (POSS) and (2) polyetherimide-graphene nanoplatelet (PEI-GNP) composites. Both exposed and non-exposed samples were characterized and compared, and the mass loss was calculated. The effects of the LEO environment, particularly atomic oxygen (AO), were investigated. X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and digital microscopy …

Development Of Quercetin And Moxifloxacin Combination In-Situ Nanoemulgels For Wound Healing., Shravani Padhye

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The study aimed to develop an in-situ gel that could potentially be sprayed on the skin for faster and enhanced wound healing. Quercetin (QCT) is a bioflavonoid, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties and has shown enhanced wound closure along with good antimicrobial activity, particularly against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) which typically infect a wound. Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride (MOX) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that has topically shown activity against Methicillin Resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and, in combination with Quercetin, could provide better and quicker wound healing as compared to the current treatment available. QCT and MOX nanoemulsions …

Heterologous Expression, Isolation, And Metabolomic Profiling Of Myxobacteria To Explore Their Potential In Natural Product Biosynthesis, Nawal Mohamed Hamed Elsayed Shehata

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Myxobacteria are distinguished by their ability to produce a spectrum of natural products,positioning them as an active resource for therapeutic discovery. These products include metabolites with significant antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic, antiviral, and immunosuppressive properties. Current synthetic biology tools for the exploration of myxobacteria are not as advanced as those for the well-studied Streptomyces. This thesis presents an evolution of synthetic biology techniques specifically designed for the exploitation of myxobacteria in the realm of natural product discovery. Chapter One investigates the potential of myxobacteria to act as heterologous hosts due to their large genomes and their capacity for diverse biosynthetic processes. …

Atomistic Simulation Of Pfas And Graphene: Interactions For Water Applications, Bashar Moufeed Awawdeh

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The contamination of drinking water by per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) is a global issue. PFAS have been widely utilized in a variety of applications, including water and stain-resistant coatings, fire suppression foams, cosmetics, paints, and adhesives. They have been detected in soils and rivers globally due to their widespread use and resistance to degradation. The strong C–F bonds of PFAS make them exceedingly stable and hard to remove. In order to remediate PFAS contamination in the environment, it is essential to develop selective adsorbent materials that can effectively capture a wide range of PFAS structures. On April 10, …

Explainable Ai For Neural Text Classification Models: Robustness And Knowledge Locality, Christopher Burger

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Powerful but complex models have seen extensive adoption within recent years due to their performance across a wide range of tasks. However, this effectiveness has come at the cost of a limited understanding of how exactly these models make their decisions. This lack of understanding has justifiably slowed integration of these models within domains where serious consequences can result due to error like medicine or finance. In response, the discipline of explainable AI (XAI) has arisen to provide justification for why these models work the way they do. One of the most prominent tools in XAI has been the local …

Cationic Charge-Shifting Polymers As Improved Vectors For Nucleic Acid Delivery, Alexander Fortenberry

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This work investigates the development and application of charge-shifting polycations for gene delivery, focusing on their synthesis, characterization, and applications for in vitro mRNA delivery. Utilizing poly(2-vinyl-4,4-dimethylazlactone) (PVDMA), this study explores modifications with various reactive handles, such as alcohol, thiol, and amine groups, to create cationic amide-, ester-, and thioester-functionalized polycations. These modifications aim to exploit the charge-shifting capabilities of the polycations to form stable polyplexes with nucleic acids, promoting the efficient intracellular release of the genetic cargo.Initial studies first examine the charge-shifting properties of PVDMA-based polycations under different pH and temperature conditions. This work highlights the potential of these …

Mindfulness And Mathematics: The Relationship Between A Mindful Teacher And Mathematics Intervention, Ave Mayeux

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Adolescents in American classrooms are currently required to fulfill multiple roles, making them particularly vulnerable to stress due to intense academic demands and social pressures. This stress can be particularly challenging for adolescents who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, and/or self-regulation. Previous research indicates a positive correlation between mindfulness practices and reduced anxiety, improved social skills and interactions, enhanced academic performance, and better self-perception. This self-study explored the implementation of mindfulness exercises in a mathematics intervention classroom by adapting and creating appropriate resources, and facilitating mindfulness exercises suitable for adolescent students. Data in this self-inquiry study was generated through meticulous …

Performance Of A Selective Amplify-And-Forward Scheme For Two-Users With Two-Relays In Rayleigh Fading And Log-Normal Shadowing Channels, Mahdia Tahsin

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Relays serve as virtual antennas in wireless networks, fostering spatial diversity between the source and destination to enhance coverage, signal quality, and network reliability. Among the various relay-assisted communication approaches, amplify-and-forward (AF) is widely favored for its reduced computational complexity. The selection of an optimal relay is crucial for maximizing network performance, constituting a significant challenge in wireless communication. Hence, optimal relay selection has emerged as a pivotal area of research. In this thesis, we investigate the potential benefits of implementing relay selection schemes in AF relay networks featuring two source-destination pairs and two relays. Our analysis focuses on two …

Acoustic Localization In Reverberant Environment, Xing Yang

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The main goal of this dissertation is to develop algorithms to accurately locate and detect underwater oil leakages through sounds emitted by oil-induced bubbles recorded by passive hydrophones. These algorithms aim to create an early warning system to prevent or identify catastrophic oil spills from pipelines, wellheads, and seafloor seepage.