Digital Commons Network^™

Blockchain Applications And Industrial Development, Hamad Aiman

Theses

World economies and industries are witnessing a rapid yet discreet change in the perception of data, information, and finance, paradigms that have been static for centuries. This shift is fueled by the expansive network of the internet, which is still far from being fully utilized. Emerging from this digital expanse, blockchain technology today influences how finance, services, and data collection are conducted. In a dynamically evolving economy, this innovative development prompts organizations and individuals with high stakes to accelerate their digital transformation. This research paper aims to educate readers about the potential impact of blockchain technology and digital assets across …

A Most Despicable Hoax: Women, Crime, And Newspapers In Depression-Era St. Louis, Nancy Stiles

Theses

This paper delves into the captivating saga of Nellie Muench, a St. Louis housewife whose life intersected with the burgeoning celebrity culture, evolving media landscape, and shifting gender dynamics of the early 20th century. Muench's involvement as a co-conspirator in the 1931 kidnapping for ransom of a wealthy doctor propelled her into the spotlight, where she navigated media manipulation to attempt to craft her own narrative. Secretly obtaining a baby and passing it off as her own child to gain jury sympathy and blackmail a rich paramour took interest in her case to sensational tabloid (and legal) heights. Drawing from …

Addicted To The Beloved? A Comparison Of Craving For And Attention To Beloved And Vape Stimuli, Caitlyn Harriman

Theses

People who are in love seem to be addicted to their beloved. People who are in love have attentional biases for the beloved and people who are addicted have attentional biases for the substance they are using. This raises the question of how similar craving and attention are for the beloved and an addictive substance. However, there are no studies that directly compared craving and attention to the beloved and addictive stimuli. The aims of the current research were to directly compare subjective emotional experiences, sustained motivated attention, and early automatic attention for the beloved and vape stimuli, in people …

Between Fodor And Sellars -- A Middle Ground For Language-Like Neural Representations, Hanzhe Dong

Theses

The recent resurgence of the language of thought (LOT) hypothesis has drawn much attention. The history of philosophy and cognitive science has provided us with various versions of LOT. From Sellars to Fodor, theorists have offered us considerations on the vehicles, content, and functions of such a representation format. However, it’s been more than 50 years since Fodor’s publication on LOT (1975), and the resurgence suggests that we need a modern iteration of LOT to fit with recent developments in the study on cognition. Therefore, in this paper, I argue that we need a middle ground between Fodor and Sellars’s …

A New Vicarious Technique For Radiometric And Spatial Calibration Of Drone-Based Multispectral And Hyperspectral Imaging Systems, David N. Conran

Theses

A new technology (convex mirrors) used for radiometric and spatial characterization of remote sensing imaging systems has demonstrated equal, but unique results when compared to Lambertian targets for vicarious calibration. Using convex mirrors to characterize the radiometric and spatial response of hyperspectral and multispectral imaging systems has yet to be thoroughly investigated for drone-based platforms. When imaged, a convex mirror produces a known radiant intensity source that can characterizes the radiometric and spatial performance of an imaging system. The simultaneous assessment supports a unique understanding of the hyperspectral and multispectral instrument’s response for vicarious characterization. Assessing a new technique for …

Comparison Of Constant Prompt Delay And Least-To-Most Prompting To Teach Receptive, Sarah Gindelberger

Theses

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is used in schools to teach students with autism spectrum disorder. Policies guide the selection and implementation of research-based practices to ensure positive student outcomes. Discrete trial teaching is often used as an instructional teaching method. To maximize learning, different prompting interventions can be used during discrete trial teaching. Constant prompt delay and least-to-most prompting are effective research-based interventions that can be implemented as instructional teaching procedures for students with autism spectrum disorder. Constant prompt delay was compared to least-to-most prompting to determine whether constant prompt delay would lead to more effective and efficient mastery acquisition …

Using Data Analytics To Predict Government Employee Turnover, Aisha Alshamsi

Theses

Employee turnover is a significant problem in many organizations, resulting in increased costs, decreased productivity, and decreased morale. The aim of this research is to predict employee turnover using data analysis algorithms and develop a predictive model that can be used to identify employees who are at risk of leaving the organization. This study preprocesses data on employee turnover rates, employee demographics, employee satisfaction, and other relevant factors, and uses data analysis machine learning algorithms such as Logistic regression, Decision tree, and XGBoost to analyze the data and develop a predictive model. The result of the study helps impact on …

Education Practicum Project, Chinwe Uzodinma-Jones

Theses

Implementation of IDSE promotes interprofessional communication by exposing scholars to such experiences prior to entering professional practice (Aebersold, 2018; Wang et al., 2015). Further inquiry has led to the development of the PICOT research question. In a population of pre-licensure baccalaureate nursing scholars (Population) what is the effect of an interdisciplinary simulation-based education (IDSE) scenario (Intervention) in comparison to no IDSE (Comparison) on improving self-perceptions of competent care among critical care nursing students (Outcome) over a period of 8 weeks (Time)?

An Evaluation Of The Teach-Back Method For Training Functional Analysis Methodology, Bethany Christie

Theses

Behavior analysts conduct functional analyses to identify the environmental contingencies maintaining challenging behavior, which allows them to develop a function-based treatment plan. Behavioral staff must be fully trained on functional analysis methodology before conducting the analysis. A common way to train staff to conduct a functional analysis is through behavioral skills training (BST), but BST is time consuming and includes numerous materials. Teach-back, a widely used training method in healthcare settings, requires less time and no materials. Currently, there is little research on the effectiveness of the teach-back method for teaching behavioral techniques, and there is no research on the …

Exploring The Potential Pathogenicity Of A Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Associated Insr Missense Variant Of Uncertain Significance Through Daf-2 In The Caenorhabditis Elegans Model, Brittany White

Theses

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is hallmarked by insulin resistance, with the INSR gene identified as a key player in this condition in humans. This gene is known to harbor genetic variants with a wide range of clinical significance from pathogenic to variants of uncertain significance (VUS) to benign. This project investigates a VUS associated with T2DM identified through ClinVar. A gene mutational analysis, predictive amino acid substitution analysis, and protein modeling predict INSR c.1628C>T (p. Thr543Met) to be likely pathogenic or damaging. PolyPhen-2 predicts this variant to be probably damaging (HumDiv score of 1.000).

Evolutionary conservation of the …

Genetic Analysis Of Hereditary Gingival Fibromatosis Associated Sos1 Missense Variants Of Uncertain Significance In Caenorhabditis Elegans, Himani Patel

Theses

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is a disease that can present as benign overgrowth of gingival tissue in the mouth. The overgrowth can enclose the entire mouth and teeth in severe cases or present itself in a concentrated area. Researchers have identified that mutations in the SOS1 gene can be responsible for HGF. This disease can impair basic functions related to the mouth. Eating, smiling, speaking can all be affected. Additionally, excess inflammation can cause periodontal disease because of the difficulty in maintaining proper oral health. Periodontal disease can lead to severe bone loss which can lead to complete loss of …

The Ghanaian War Against Malaria: A Geospatial Approach To Malaria And Healthcare Access In Ghana, Emmanuel Aklie

Theses

This geospatial research project aims to analyze the complex factors influencing malaria incidence in Ghana, including healthcare access, cultural beliefs, and preventive measures. Using GIS mapping and spatial analysis, the study examines malaria distribution and healthcare facility locations to identify hotspots and access inequalities. Combining quantitative data from sources like Demographic and Health Surveys with qualitative methods like surveys and interviews, the project analyzes the relationship between malaria prevalence and vaccination rates, bed net usage, and cultural views on treatment. By taking a comprehensive approach focused on evidence-based insights, the research seeks to inform targeted interventions by the Ghanaian government …

A Comparison Of Instructional Methods For Teaching Apa Skills, Zachary Hooten

Theses

Writing is highly important for college students, and they will need to conform to the formatting of the writing styles used in their classes. One style required of many students is the American Psychological Association (APA). Students often make errors when formatting references using APA Style. Although various instructional strategies have been used to teach these skills, some methods take a long time to achieve minimal increases or are cumbersome to implement in some learning environments. Behavioral skills training (BST) is an empirically supported method for teaching skills that involves providing the learner with written and verbal instructions, modeling, practice …

Documenting The Southern Range Terminus Of The Wood Frog (Lithobates Sylvaticus) In North America, Christian Braswell

Theses

The Wood Frog (Lithobates sylvaticus) holds a remarkable position in North American amphibian biology, with its range extending from the Arctic Circle down to the near sub-tropical southeastern United States. This thesis presents a novel quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis (qPCR) primer specific to L. sylvaticus and a survey effort regarding the southernmost distribution and detection of this species in Alabama through the application of environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling techniques. By investigating historical data and employing advanced genetic methodologies, this research provides insights into the contemporary status and distribution of the Wood Frog. This research is important to …

Detailing The Effects Of Cannabidiol On Exosome Release In Ewing’S Sarcoma, Bennett Hasley

Theses

Ewing’s sarcoma (ES) is a highly aggressive pediatric cancer found within bone that carries a low five-year survival rate within its patients. This is due, in part, to the cancer’s high malignancy properties as well as the development of resistance to the chemotherapies used to combat this cancer. This project aims to determine if cannabidiol (CBD) has an effect on either exosome release or the protein, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) within ES cells. Exosomes are vesicles that can carry proteins and other signaling molecules which are released by the cell and allow for cell-to-cell communication. Within …

Leveraging Sentiment Analysis For Tokyo Airbnb Hosts And Decision Makers, Shaikha Aldahmani

Theses

This study focused on the growing challenges that Tokyo Airbnb hosts and policymakers face in the holiday homes and home stays market. The study aimed to empower hosts with insights to optimize offerings and assist policymakers in informed decision-making for enhancing neighborhood experiences, with a focus on data-driven business strategies grounded in sentiment analysis. The project employed a robust methodology that leverages sentiment analysis techniques to gain insights from guest comments of Tokyo Airbnb listings spanning from September 2011 to June 2023. The CART algorithm and the Affin sentiment lexicon were used for data cleaning, consolidation, and sentiment analysis. The …

Predictive Analytics Of Road Traffic Incidents, A Machine Learning Approach, Maryam Essa Jaji

Theses

Traffic accidents rank among the world's most serious concerns due to the high number of deaths, injuries, and fatalities as well as the enormous financial losses they cause every year. Road travel is a necessary component of modern civilization, but because of the rise in traffic accidents, it costs the world economy billions of dollars and over a million deaths annually. Road accidents can be caused by a variety of elements. It can be possible to take action to lessen the severity and extent of the effects if these elements are better recognized and predicted. The goal of this project …

“Art For The Millions:” The Evolution Of Informal Learning From The Charleston Museum To The New Deal, Kristen Walker

Theses

The advent of the first museum in the United States in 1773, The Charleston Museum, sparked a shift in the way education is perceived and how it can be conducted. However, only recently has the intentional implementation of programs and exhibitions been created in a digestible way for the public. This thesis discusses how informal learning has evolved since the establishment of the Charleston Museum and the legacy of the Federal Art Project regarding informal learning and art education. Key research methods include the examination of primary and secondary resources, including oral histories held by the Smithsonian Archives of American …

There’S Always Room For Improvement: Implementing Indoor Navigation Using ‘Mappedin’ In The Rochester Museum And Science Center To Enhance The Visitor Experience, Izzy Moyer

Theses

Since March 2020, museums have dramatically increased their use of technology in museums to make their environments more engaging to their visitors. For indoor navigation, for instance, museums have used still images, PDFs, and QR codes as well as analog measures (such as directional signage and paper maps) to help their visitors navigate their institution. While these are helpful for understanding one’s general location, other digital wayfinding measures can foster information sharing as well as the opportunity to decrease “spatial anxiety.” This thesis describes the creation of a map for portable, indoor navigation using “Mappedin,” a cost-effective platform that is …

Hydrologic Impact Index For The Pinhoti Hiking Trail, Allie Field

Theses

Author note: The author of this thesis is also published under the name Allie Bobo.

This study aimed to identify flood-prone areas along the Pinhoti Trail and Chinnabee Silent Trail in the Talladega National Forest. Using the Hydrology Flood Index layer that was created using several essential data layers, the research aimed to provide campers, hikers, nature enthusiasts, and trail maintenance teams with information about areas at a higher risk of flash flooding. The Hydrology Flood Index layer rates the risk of flooding on a scale of 1 to 4, with level 1 indicating a low risk of flooding and …

Use Of Force In Policing: Do Female Police Officers Use Unjustifiable Force As Often As Male Officers?, Carma Dobson

Theses

Use of force (UOF) is a common practice in policing. My study focuses on the disposition of the use of unjustifiable force in policing. Utilization of pre-existing data with 5,771 use of force incidents from the New Orleans, Louisiana police department in the years of 2016-2021 produces an answer to the research question: Do female police officers use unjustifiable force as often as male officers? The chi-square test of independence results in my study indicates that there is no statistical difference between males and females.

A Comparison Of The Relative Magnitude Of Combinations Of Relapse Types In Rats, Mary Bridges

Theses

Applied behavior analysis uses scientifically derived methods to create treatments for socially significant behaviors. A threat to these successful treatments is the recurrence of previously reduced behavior (i.e., relapse). Relapse can be categorized into several types depending on the variables that induce relapse. Three types prevalent in clinical settings are reinstatement (i.e., induced by re-exposure to reinforcers or stimuli paired with the target behavior), renewal (i.e., induced by changes in context), and resurgence (i.e., induced by worsening of alternative reinforcement). Because relapse is harmful to long-term treatment maintenance, prior research has developed and tested mitigation strategies for these relapse types, …

A Comparative Study Of A Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Associated Egfr Missense Variant Of Uncertain Significance, Vanessa Mejia

Theses

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a form of lung cancer that can be driven by heightened activity of epidermal growth factor receptor encoded by the EGFR gene. Genetic variants in EGFR have been identified that lead to abnormal cell growth and tumorigenesis. The objectives of this study was to 1) determine if an EGFR variant of uncertain significance (VUS) associated with NSCLC is potentially damaging based on evaluation of the ortholog let-23 in the model organism, C. elegans, and 2) identify conserved missense VUS loci associated with NSCLC. Through ClinVar, the EGFR VUS c.845G>C(p.Gly282Ala) was identified in …

Robust Machine Learning Under Vulnerable Cyberinfrastructure And Varying Data Quality, Sergei Chuprov

Theses

In our study, we investigate Machine Learning (ML) application robustness in ML Integrated with Network (MLIN) systems. We consider MLIN as an integration of three major components and interrelations between them: data sources, network facilities, and ML application. In contrast to the conventional approaches that focus on each separate component, we concentrate on their interrelationships, and consider them from the system integration perspective. We formulate our primary goal as to develop methods and tools aimed at assuring ML application performance towards Data Quality (DQ) variation in MLIN through improving ML application robustness. We examine the prior work on ML robustness …

Transfer Learning Across Domains And Sensing Modalities, Chowdhury Sadman Jahan

Theses

Transfer learning facilitates the training of a deep learning (DL) model with limited or no labeled data, by initializing the network parameters using a similar model already trained on a different but related dataset or task. This dissertation examines two special cases of transfer learning for image classification tasks: cross-modal supervised learning, and cross-domain unsupervised adaptation. This dissertation proposes to apply cross-modal transfer learning to guide the training process of a DL model on Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images via knowledge distillation from a DL model trained on corresponding electro-optical (EO) images. Furthermore, this approach explores class-balanced sampling strategies and …

Novel Methods For Modeling And Treating Biofilm Infections, Emily Lazarus

Theses

Biofilms are responsible for the development of chronic infections, which are 10-1000 times more resistant to antimicrobial agents than two-dimensional (2D) planktonic culture. Traditionally, 2D planktonic cultures are used to study efficacy of antimicrobial treatments but 2D cultures have several shortcomings such as increased sensitivity to treatments, lack of complexity of the three-dimensional (3D) environment, limited host defense mechanisms, and lack the structural thickness of natural biofilms. Biofilm-related infections play a critical role in the delayed healing process of chronic skin wounds, and while treatments for chronic skin wounds exist, including negative pressure wound healing (NPWT), biofilm infections still prevail. …

From Ordinary To Extraordinary: Using Storytelling To Reveal The Hidden Histories Of Objects And Enhance Meaning Making In A Living History Village, Jill Poppenheimer Johnson

Theses

Objects without a narrative are simply things. By contrast, an object with a story can be used as a vehicle for a museum to open dialogues with visitors about the people of that time period, how they lived their lives, and what social aspects influenced them. The story of an object, what makes it different from hundreds of others just like it, can change it from ordinary to extraordinary and be used as a powerful learning tool by helping the audience to create connections and make meaning of what they are seeing and experiencing. This thesis explores the relationships between …

“Jí'Dë'Ö:H” Means Bird: Decolonizing The Modern Birding Experience Through The Inclusion Of Narratives From Indigenous Communities Of Western New York, Angelique M. Armstrong

Theses

This thesis explores the efficacy of combining Indigenous culture narratives with elements of traditional Euro-American field guides to create an alternative form of birding1 field guide. The desired outcome is to create a more inclusive and well-rounded birding experience that celebrates the wisdom and worldview of the people who inhabited the New World before its European “discovery.” The intention is to approach birding from the standpoint of the past and present Caretakers of the land; the members of Indigenous communities whose ancestors lived (and still live) in harmony with the land and living creatures (including birds). It seeks to answer …

Investigating Essential Oils, Natural Compounds, And Marine Based Rumen Buffers As Feed Additives For Enteric Methane Mitigation And Improved Ruminant Productivity, Ian Hodge

Theses

Ruminant dietary additives were investigated for enteric methane (CH4) mitigation and their effects on rumen fermentation characteristics during both in vitro and in vivo supplementation trials. A meta-analysis of the peer reviewed published literature was initially performed to establish the state of the art in the field and allowed benchmarking of the performance of the dietary additives screened during the project. Investigated feed additives included garlic oil (GO), nitrate, Ascophyllum nodosum (AN), Asparagopsis (ASP), Lactobacillus plantarum (LAB), calcareous marine algae (CMA), chitosan (CHI), essential oils (EO) and 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP). The development of an in vitro screening method to evaluate the …

Theoretical And Computational Astrochemistry: A Variational Quantum Monte Carlo (Vqmc) Study Of The Trihydrogen Molecule Cation (H3+), Ahmad Saeed Alsaed

Theses

H₃⁺ is the simplest Three-Center Two-Electron molecule and it is of much interest in astrochemistry due to its high occurrence in the outer space, high reactivity, and strong acidic properties. In addition,H₃⁺ is involved in many chemical reactions in the interstellar medium (ISM) and its significant ability to absorb energy contributed to the cooling of the Universe during its early stages.

The main objective of this thesis is to approximate the ground state electronic energy of H₃⁺ by using a simple trial wavefunction consisting of a doubly occupied molecular orbital multiplied by a Jastrow …