Digital Commons Network^™

Only That’S Not Enough, Joe Cuccio

Theses

My emotions and feelings towards life have always been a bit all over the place. At one moment I feel the world is full of joy and serenity, and in the next moment, I feel it is a string of disorderly events with no rhyme or reason. As my internal feelings turn, I continue to remain engaged with an image-making practice. My camera allows me to venture into the world and follow my heart as it guides my eyes to respond to what is around and inside my head. Making images became an extension of my presence in the most …

Investigations On Process Options Towards Improved Operation And Stability Of Igzo Tfts, Emanuelle Chowdhry

Theses

Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide (IGZO) is an amorphous oxide semiconductor (AOS) being used in the display industry for backplane TFTs due to its superior mobility in comparison to hydrogenated amorphous silicon, as well as being compatible with the existing flat-panel manufacturing infrastructure. The ongoing research efforts primarily revolve around making the processing more robust so improved performance can be obtained and with greater consistency. The original proposed studies involved investigations on process options that promote enhanced passivation of defect states, and resistance to hydrogen plasma exposure to enable straightforward device integration schemes. However, during the beginning stages of experimentation there …

Enola, Justin Gibson

Theses

Enola, is a photographic collection of visual fragments without a beginning or end. These moments reflect on my inner psychological landscape, translated from pieces of stories, dreams, recollections. My project, inspired heavily by the town that I once called home, Enola, Pennsylvania, acts as a cultural origin point for my photographs. This work highlights aspects of the uncanny, the quiet, and the unfamiliar tendencies of life. These formulations usually manifest as dreamlike scenes. My work weaves these disconnected pieces into a cohesive reflection.

Evaluation Of A Silicon Carbide Stiffening Layer For Silicon-On-Glass Thin-Film Transistors, Ankur Korad

Theses

Thin-film electronic devices based on hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) or low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) are currently utilized in the development of electro-optical systems. These systems require a transparent substrate and are commonly found in active-matrix flat-panel displays for handheld digital assistants, digital cameras, and smart phones, among other devices. The performance of these systems could be greatly enhanced in terms of speed, power consumption, resolution, and degree of integration if single-crystalline thin films became available. Corning’s Silicon-on-Glass (SiOG) technology, initially investigated prior to 2010, involved the transfer of single crystal silicon layers onto glass substrates using an anodic bonding process …

Defect Detection Of Photovoltaic Panels By Image Processing, Hamad Almarzooqi

Theses

A key component of the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable power sources, driven by the global demand for such energy, has been the fast improvement in the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) plants. Ensuring the dependability of photovoltaic panels becomes crucially important when solar installations develop in scale. Photovoltaic panels have flaws that reduce their effectiveness and shorten their lifespan, but they are durable and long-lasting otherwise. Solar plants need to work as efficiently as possible with low downtime and to want solar energy to be viable in the long run, the issues shall be fined a fixed promptly. …

Improvements To Testing And Packaging Technology For Silicon Photonics Research And Development, Eric Thornton

Theses

Silicon photonics is an emerging field that aims to integrate traditional digital CMOS logic with micro scale optical components made using silicon onto the same chip in order to overcome recent bottlenecks related to information transfer through copper interconnects. The end goal of silicon photonics is to use optical links, integrated together with modulators (devices that translate between the electrical and optical systems) controlled by traditional CMOS logic, packaged in familiar form factors, and interfaced using traditional digital serial protocols. However, groups involved in the research and development of silicon optical components do not work with these fully integrated designs …

Investigation On The Synthesis And Characterization Of Novel Phase Change Materials For Packaging Application, Sriram Srinivasan

Theses

Phase change material (PCM) is one of the majorly growing techniques used for thermal heat storage in various fields including construction for insulation and packaging industry. PCMs are widely used to increase the shelf life of the produce and prevent from harsh climatic conditions during transportation. In this present investigation, a PCM system was developed in the form of microcapsules using lauric acid (LA) and capric acid (CA) emulsions in melamine formaldehyde (MF) solution and polyurethane foam (PUF) using polytetrahydrofuran, isoprene diisocyanate, and polyethylene glycol (PEG). Acetic acid and triethylamine were used to control the pH during microcapsule preparation. The …

Leveraging Machine Learning For Enhanced Lead Quality Prediction: A Case Study Of Vam Consulting, Huthayfa Nawafleh

Theses

In today's data-driven business landscape, companies are increasingly leveraging data analytics and machine learning to optimize their lead management processes and enhance customer acquisition strategies. This research focuses on the application of data analytics and the CRISP-DM methodology to improve lead quality prediction and streamline the sales funnel for VAM Consulting, a company specializing in marketing and business technology solutions. VAM Consulting has been developing customer acquisition processes and digital marketing strategies since 2016, amassing a diverse portfolio of over 300 client projects. Despite their extensive experience and utilization of various technologies, the company faces challenges in optimizing lead generation …

(Virtual) Space: The Final Frontier – Virtual-Reality-Based Identification Of Nearby, Young Stars In Gaia Data, Ryan W. Butler

Theses

Nearby Young Moving Groups (NYMGSs) are loose kinematic associations of young (<150 >Myr) stars in the solar neighborhood (distance ≤ 140pc). These groups offer an excellent testbed for the study of pre-main sequence stellar evolution, protoplanetary and evolved disks, and recently formed (or forming) extrasolar systems. To further inform studies of these systems, we can expand the known membership of these NYMGs using the multi-dimensional spatial, kinematic, and photometric data from the Gaia mission. Using a new virtual reality tool known as StarGateVR, we search Gaia Data Release 3 for new candidates of 8 NYMGs and identify ∼ 370 such …

The Space That Tell Stories, Asia Gonzalez

Theses

This project focuses on visual storytelling in game design. The primary focus of this project is to create an environment that tells a story through visual exposition and very minimal dialogue or written words. Furthermore, the project studies the ways in which a story can be both a visual and interactive experience.

White Cell Support Application For Expo Ops Tactical Wargame System, Zackery Joseph Milder

Theses

The purpose of this project was to create a support application for a tabletop wargame currently used for training and scenario simulation by the United States Marine Corps. The EXPO OPS Companion is meant to enhance the capabilities of the White Cell/table director, the unbiased third party responsible for running adjudication for the EXPO OPS Tactical Wargames System. EXPO OPS TWS is “…a table top wargame covering contemporary and future conflict at the platoon, company and battalion level. It is a wargame toolkit that enables wargaming scenarios in the 2020 to 2030 timeframe. The design centers on plans and decisions …

Mechelle’S Bridal Palace Business Plan, Lakendra Montgomery

Theses

This project aims to develop a comprehensive business plan for a one-of-a-kind bridal store called Mechelle's Bridal Palace, which offers an innovative and unique bridal shopping experience. The plan goes beyond the traditional bridal store concept and includes a café, which will provide customers with additional relaxation and convenience. This business plan focuses on redefining the traditional bridal shopping experience and making it more enjoyable for customers. Moreover, this project aims to address the issue of diversity, representation, and inclusion in bridal fashion. The bridal industry has historically been exclusive, and it aims to address this by creating a more …

The Use Of A Token Economy To Decrease Problem Behaviors And Increase Task Completion For A Pre-Schooler With Autism, Dyana Schneider, Robbie Hanson

Theses

The execution of a token economy has been shown to be effective to decrease problem behaviors and increase task completion, communication, and other skills for individuals with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (Matson & Boisjoli, 2009). Although previous research has shown token economies to be effective, there remains criticisms regarding existing research, such as low experimental rigor, among others (Maggin et al., 2011). Additionally, although token economies embed evidence-based behavior-analytic strategies (Wong et al., 2015) there appears to be a disconnect between basic and applied research and implementation of token economies in a clinical context (e.g., relying on fixed …

Revealing The Similarities Between Bosch's Garden Of Earthly Delights And Medieval Musical Forms, Lindsay A. Nevin

Theses

This paper analyzes the triptych entitled The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch painted between 1490 and 1510. This specific piece is Bosch’s most famous and therefore garners the largest amount of discourse analyzing the visual components of it. This specific paper is unique in its approach by using methodology similar to music historians to relate the forms of music popular at this time to the visual elements in the work. Some of the most popular music genres at the time were those of madrigal and polyphonic. An additional element popular in the transition between the 15th and 16th …

Heat Sink Integrating Phase Change Materials (Pcms) For Cooling High Power Electronic Devices, Mohammad Sameer Qasem

Theses

This research explores the numerical analysis of phase change materials (PCMs) heat sinks, focusing on high heat flux dissipation applications, e.g. electronics cooling. Both 2D and 3D numerical models using gallium and paraffin RT31 as PCMs are considered within a heat sink design framework featuring a rectangular cavity and dual opposing vertical copper walls serving as fins to dissipate heat from the hot sink base that receives heat from the heat source. The inclusion of a Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) ‘Primitive’ structure as an in-fill thermal conductivity enhancer (TCE) in the case of the gallium heat sink, and a …

A Computational Investigation Into Thermo-Kinetic Parameters Governing The Decomposition Of Bio-Oil Model Compounds, Ali Huseein Aljefri

Theses

Among notable products from thermal degradation of biomass are simple oxygen-containing aromatics. These compounds typically appear in high loads in collected bio-oil derived from biomass. As such, it is important to comprehend the decomposition chemistry of this category of compounds. This thesis takes on board a general approach to report thermo-kinetic parameters that govern decomposition of a selected set of bio-oil model compounds in two distinct systems: firstly radical-derived pathways in the gas phase and secondly thermal degradation in their condensed media. The first is attained through accurate density functional calculations while the second is accomplished through the use of …

Biomass Estimation Of Mature Mangrove Trees In The Uae Using Spaceborne Remote Sensing Techniques, Yasmine Ashraf Heikal

Theses

Mangrove forest ecosystems play an essential role in diminishing the effects of climate change caused by the increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Estimating mangrove forest aboveground biomass (AGB) and hence aboveground carbon (AGC) can assist in decision-making for conservation, sustainable use, and protection of these forests. The goal of this research project was to map the AGB of mangrove forests along the coasts of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the aid of Landsat-8-9 satellite imagery data acquired in September 2023. 12 AGB estimation models were developed based on the combination of in situ measurements and Landsat-8-9 derived …

Emulsion Stability, Rheological Properties, And Combustion Characteristics Of Water-Jojoba Biofuel Emulsion, Ihab Mohamed Helal

Theses

This thesis comprehensively investigates the stability, rheological properties, and engine performance implications of Water in Jojoba Biodiesel (WJBD) emulsion. The research delves into multiple aspects, including the influence of diverse surfactants and water concentrations on emulsion stability. It also yields valuable insights into the development of stable water in jojoba biodiesel emulsions, specifically tailored for diesel engines. These insights contribute significantly to the body of knowledge of positioning emulsion fuels as viable alternative to traditional diesel fuels. The anticipated benefits include notable reductions in emissions, improvement in combustion efficiency, and lower production cost. Importantly, this study underscores the critical importance …

Vascular Brain Digital Twins For Medical Training And Education In Metaverse, Shamma Khaled Alghafri

Theses

This study addresses the need for innovative educational tools in the field of anatomy, specifically focusing on brain anatomy. The objective is to develop a virtual reality application and a 3D visualization that offer immersive and interactive learning experiences for students. The VR application, developed using Unity and designed for the Oculus Quest 2 headset, creates an immersive virtual laboratory environment. This environment includes interactive elements such as a table with buttons for displaying brain models and a whiteboard for user interaction. Users can manipulate and explore different brain structures, enhancing their understanding of complex anatomical features. Additionally, we integrated …

An Intelligent Academic Advising System For Course Recommendation Using Large Language Models, Malika Maya Iratni

Theses

Academic advising is an important resource for students, especially in higher education, in order to guide them to make the best possible decisions to improve their overall academic performance and overall academic journey. With the increasing number of students joining these institutions each year, traditional advising becomes a time-consuming and inefficient process that can leave students discouraged, and advisors overwhelmed. Therefore, there is a need to develop intelligent advising systems that make use of the recent advancements in technology, to support the advising process, and increase overall student satisfaction. In this work, an academic advising model that uses Recommender Systems …

A Review Of Training For First Responders When Interacting With Individuals With Diagnoses, Mackenzie Drost, Robbie Hanson

Theses

Safety is a priority for first responders when responding to calls, but there have been numerous cases in which unintentional harm was caused when interacting with individuals with diagnoses or disabilities. Thus, it seems as though effective training procedures for these professionals is critical. However, training for first responders varies from state to state and can depend on the county in which the services are provided. Although behavioral skills training (BST) has a well-established history of training non behavior-analytic professionals and although there have been some encouraging recommendations for the effective dissemination of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to those outside …

Meaning Through Materiality: Bisa Butler’S Expressive Portraits, Jacqueline D’Arco Miller

Theses

This thesis examines how Bisa Butler creates meaning through the materiality in her quilted portraits. Bisa Butler is of West African and American descent and incorporates part of her own identity in her quilted portraits using Dutch wax prints and other highly patterned textiles. Not only does Butler connect her identity in her quilted portraits, but she also connects the meaning of these textiles to the figures in her portraits. This thesis explores the materiality of Bisa Butler’s Colored Entrance (2023), along with The Passion of Questlove (2023) and Grandpa Zakani (2004), to argue that in this new development of …

A Preliminary Analysis Of Functional Communication Training Via Voice-Recorded Buttons To Reduce Undesirable Behaviors With Dogs, Mya Watson-Blake, Robbie Hanson

Theses

Undesirable behavior, such as excessive barking, jumping up, and biting, is prevalent among pet dogs with an estimate of 72%-85% of dogs exhibiting at least one type of undesirable behavior (Dinwoodie et al., 2019; Powell et al., 2021; Salonen et al., 2020). Further, canine undesirable behavior has been found to be the leading cause of owners relinquishing their dogs to rescue shelters (Powdrill-Wells et al., 2021). Functional communication training (FCT) is a method that has shown to be effective with human populations for reducing challenging behaviors by teaching an individual an alternative response that results in the same class of …

The Impact Of Ai On Ux: Challenges And Opportunities, Susan Stephanie Wells

Theses

Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in user experience (UX) design is reshaping the field of UX, offering new opportunities and challenges for designers. This thesis project explores the multifaceted relationship between AI and UX design, focusing on the challenges, opportunities, and skills demanded of UX designers in the age of AI. Through a review of academic research and real-world experiences, this project studies the impact of AI on web design processes, UX testing, and data analysis. Key findings highlight the transformative potential of AI in enhancing user experiences, from suggesting website structures to facilitating UX testing and data analysis.

Comparative analysis …

Head Impact Measurement Using Piezoelectric Sensors, Huda Abdulla Alnuaimi

Theses

The importance of safety measures cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to protecting the human head. Head injuries can have severe, life-altering consequences, as the head is crucial for controlling the entire body. Unlike machines that store data, the human brain's capacity to retain thoughts and memories can be significantly affected by even a single injury. This thesis introduces a method for predicting the specific area of the head that might be injured during an impact. The prediction is based on the intensity and duration of the impact. The innovation of this thesis lies in the use of piezoelectric …

Effect Of Strategic Blending Of Food Industry By-Products With Protein Supplements On Performance Of Growing And Finishing Beef Cattle, Richard Augustine Atedi Bien

Theses

The objective of this research was to evaluate the impact of strategical blending of by-products of pea protein extraction such as pea molasses (PMS) and pea starch and fiber (PSF) with canola meal (CM) or distillers dried grains (DDGS) on the growth performance, rumen fermentation, and total tract nutrient digestibility of beef cattle. Preliminary evaluation (study 1) involved 4 runs of in vitro and two runs of in situ to evaluate the rumen fermentation and nutrient degradation of strategically blended CM. The treatments included regular CM (CM), CM blends containing PMS and PSF at 5% (CM5) and 10% (CM10) levels …

Investigating Native Bamboo Practices For Reservoir Conservation And Habitat Restoration, Taryn Elizabeth Ann Bieri

Theses

Reservoirs are an important resource for both humans and wildlife. They provide drinking water, recreational opportunities, wildlife habitat and more. A major issue land managers face on reservoirs is shoreline erosion leading to water quality impairments, sedimentation, and habitat loss. Traditionally, riprap has been used to mitigate this issue, but is costly and has limited ability to provide habitat. A promising measure to mitigate shoreline erosion and provide habitat is the establishment of giant cane [Arundinaria gigantea (Walt.) Muhl], on shorelines. Giant cane, a bamboo species native to southern Illinois and the southeastern United States, forms monodominant stands called canebrakes. …

Directing A Technical Cyclone, Leonard A. Lively

Theses

In October 2023, the Southern Illinois School of Theater and Dance produced Ride the Cyclone. This thesis documents the participation of the technical director, Leonard Lively, in this collaborative production process. The project involved multimedia construction, CNC technology to manufacture custom components, curtain fabrication, engineering inspiration from anatomical structures, and advanced AutoCAD drafting techniques. Chapter one explores the play’s text, past productions, and the production’s possibilities. The design process is documented in the second chapter. The third chapter covers the production process and the fourth chapter reflects and evaluates the effectiveness of the production.

Evaluating Behavioral Skills Training To Improve Data Collection Procedures In Paraprofessionals, Megan Weber

Theses

When working with individuals with a variety of abilities and disabilities, data collection becomes arguably the most important tool in ensuring student success and growth. To put trust in collected data, both data reliability and treatment integrity must be considered. When one individual is taking all data required for a specific individual, reliability and integrity can be simpler to ensure (Vollmer et al., 2008). However, in many special education classrooms across the country, paraprofessionals are asked to perform many of the same data collection tasks as certified educators; a role which, as in many of the roles they serve within …

Comparison Of Rip And Rcp Conditioning Procedures On Vocalizations In Children With Autism And Minimal Echoic Repertoire, Jacqueline Pecoraro

Theses

Pairing procedures have been utilized by researchers and in applied practice for many years to establish neutral stimuli as conditioned reinforcers. Recently, pairing procedures, specifically stimulus-stimulus pairing, have been applied to vocalizations. Vocalizations are an essential element for language development because once vocalizations are brought under echoic control, they can be used to further develop a child’s verbal behavior. Results of the research conducted on stimulus-stimulus pairing had varied results, and the effectiveness of stimulus-stimulus pairing on increasing vocalizations is uncertain. Lepper and Petursdottir (2017) conducted a study that compared traditional stimulus-stimulus pairing (or response-independent pairing (RIP)) to response-contingent pairing …