Digital Commons Network^™

“It’S Not Just Finding Them A Job”, (Re) Imagining Meaningful Employment And Economic Inclusion Among Forced Migrants: Narratives From Service Providers, Hanna Haran, Yesenia Alvarez Padilla, Jaclyn Kirsch, Arati Maleku

Online Journal for Workforce Education and Development

Refugees and other forced migrants encounter numerous obstacles in securing employment that match their skills and qualifications. Building upon existing migration literature that explores integration into the United States labor market, this study investigates economic inclusion and the challenges and opportunities newcomers face in obtaining meaningful employment and utilizing their past education and work experience. We collected data through one-on-one interviews with service providers and community leaders (N = 11) engaged in refugee and forced migrant employment support, with over half (54.4%) identifying as migrants themselves. Data was analyzed using grounded theory techniques. The analysis yielded five overarching themes: (1) …

Comprehensive Guide For Cte Teachers: Implementing Functional Behavioral Assessments And Individualized Behavior Support Plans For Students With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities, Hannah Martinez-Davenport, Debra Heban, Dawn Sandt

Online Journal for Workforce Education and Development

The training and requirements for initial licensure of Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers exhibit considerable variation across states, potentially resulting in a limited familiarity with high-impact special education practices among CTE educators. Two critical practices within this domain are the conduct of Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and the design of Individualized Behavior Support Plans (IBSPs). The FBA process entails a thorough, team-based approach to data collection and analysis aimed at identifying the underlying causes of behaviors that impede a student with a disability from achieving academic, social, emotional, and vocational objectives. Based on the insights derived from the FBA, …

Book Review: Decentering Whiteness In Libraries: A Framework For Inclusive Collection Management, Andrea Jamison, Shala K. Howell

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Book Review : The Digital Environment: How We Live, Learn, Work, And Play Now By Pablo J. Boczkowski And Eugenia Mitchelstein, Devi Swamy

School of Information Student Research Journal

The Digital Environment: How We Live, Learn, Work, and Play Now by Pablo J. Boczkowski and Eugenia Mitchelstein examines how digital technologies shape modern life, presenting the digital environment as a distinct sphere alongside natural and urban environments. Drawing on expert interviews, the authors explore its defining features—totality, duality, conflict, and indeterminacy—and their impact on society. The book highlights both the potential of digital tools to perpetuate inequities and their capacity to promote equity, offering insights particularly valuable to library and information science professionals.

Book Review: Creating Inclusive Libraries By Applying Universal Design: A Guide By Carli Spina, Katrina Williams

School of Information Student Research Journal

Creating Inclusive Libraries by Applying Universal Design: A Guide is a practical and useful resource for improving libraries so that they are accessible to the broadest range of people possible. The format is well organized, and the case studies illustrate principles in engaging and recognizable ways. A reader who starts with no knowledge of Universal Design would acquire a working knowledge and be able to assess their own spaces with the guidance provided through examples and checklists. Rather than focus on resources for disabled patrons, Spina encourages readers to adopt a reflective practice for considering the needs of all library …

Academic Librarians With Invisible Disabilities Carry An Invisible Workload That Limits Their Career Potential, Katrina Heiderich Williams

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Redefining Reference Services In The 21st Century, Johanna Tunon

School of Information Student Research Journal

The role of reference services in libraries has evolved significantly in the 21st century, driven by technological advancements and changing user needs. This paper explores how reference services have transitioned from traditional, desk-centric interactions to encompass a wide array of platforms and tools, including digital innovations and generative AI. The decline in reference transactions has prompted librarians to adapt, shifting focus towards more complex consultations and instructional roles, while also navigating the blurred boundaries between reference assistance and formal instruction. The paper also examines the updated definitions and limitations of reference services by the Reference and User Services Association (RUSA), …

The Importance Of Graduate-Student-Led Academic Journals Within Library And Information Science, Odin Halvorson

School of Information Student Research Journal

Graduate-student-led academic journals play a crucial role in fostering early career researchers' engagement with scholarly discourse within the field of Library and Information Science (LIS). This paper highlights the significance of these journals by examining their contributions to professional development, peer review practices, and inclusivity. Through a case study of the Student Research Journal (SRJ) at San Jose State University’s iSchool, I demonstrate how student-led journals provide invaluable experiential learning opportunities in leadership, organization, and research skills. The SRJ exemplifies these benefits by achieving international recognition with minimal resources, showcasing its impact-to-cost ratio. This paper also discusses the journal's role …

Ischool Student Research Journal, Vol.14, Iss.2

School of Information Student Research Journal

Article citations within.

Provocative And Problematic: The Complicated Legacy Of Chain-Gang All-Stars, Shweta Sinha

Journal of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies

No abstract provided.

Book Review: The Sociology Of Cardi B: A Trap Feminist Approach, Dominique Dillard

Journal of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies

No abstract provided.

Creating Spaces To Shift The Power Dynamics: Counter-Storytelling Through The Voices Of Empowerment Conference, Jordan González, Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz, Lonice Eversley, Aliya Holmes, Natalie Byfield

Journal of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies

This qualitative study explores the transformative potential of counterstory as a method for promoting educational equity through the lens of racial literacy and the "Archeology of Self" framework. Rooted in critical race theory, counterstory enables marginalized voices to challenge and reshape dominant narratives within educational research and practice (Delgado & Stefancic, 1996; Delgado, Stefancic, & Harris, 2012; Ladson-Billings, 2013; Ladson-Billings, 2021; Martinez, 2020). The community-based study using a counter-storytelling approach draws on data from a focus group held during the 2024 Voices of Empowerment Conference, part of the Institute for Critical Race and Ethnic Studies (CRES) at St. John's University. …

Should We Clear The Cobwebs In Our Minds Or Dismantle Racial Structures? Reflections On The Lack Of Critical Thinking Of Higher Education Staff In The Uk, Chrissie Da Costa

Journal of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies

Higher education in the UK constantly emphasises  critical thinking for students. However, analysis of comments made about *Black students and staff indicate that some academic staff fail to critically analyse their thoughts, words, and deeds. This paper sets out to analyse these utterances of HE staff and to investigate whether they actively reproduce and are intended to reproduce racist practices in HE, which could affect the experience, performance, and confidence of some of these students and staff who identify as Black and Global Majorities.  Applying critical race theory and socio-ideological analysis of language (Bakhtin 1981 and Voloshinov 1973) to analyse …

Breaking News: The Presence Of The White Racial Frame In Partisan Cable News Networks’ Coverage Of Officers Killing Black Victims, Andrea C. Smith, Jonathan M. Cox

Journal of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies

This study analyzes how two of the most popular and partisan cable news networks in the U.S., FOX and MSNBC, framed victims and officers in their coverage of cases where officers kill Black men. In addition, this work investigates how these networks discuss systemic racism. Using Feagin's white racial frame as a framework and critical discourse analysis as an analytical tool, the findings show that both networks exhibited anti-Black and pro-White framing within their reports. However, how these frames manifested differed across the networks, displaying differing similarities. Most notably, when counter-framing was present on MSNBC, they still perpetuated the anti-Black …

The Sound Of Change: Afrobeats And The Deconstruction Of African Stereotypes, Ibrahim Yusif

Journal of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies

This essay investigates how Afrobeats, a genre rooted in the dynamic cultural traditions of West Africa, serves as a strategic medium to counter the pervasive negative stereotypes about Africa perpetuated in Western media narratives. Often depicted through reductive portrayals of poverty, conflict, and disease, Africa’s representation in Western discourse starkly contrasts with the themes of vitality, resilience, and modernity inherent in Afrobeats music. I analyze the works of artists such as Rema, Davido, Burna Boy, and Tiwa Savage, highlighting how their music celebrates African pride, historical depth, and the empowerment of African women. Additionally, I examine the role of digital …

Intersectionality And The Framing Of News: A Discourse Analysis Of Black Press And Mainstream Coverage About Vice President Kamala Harris, Rockia K. Harris, Shaniece B. Bickham, Jinx C. Broussard

Journal of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies

Vice President Kamala Harris made history in 2020 by becoming the first woman, and first Black and Asian descent to earn this coveted role for any party (Clark & Adams, 2021). During her 2020 campaign, VP Harris showed how significant identity is to her autonomy as a first-generation American who openly supports historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), as a Howard University alumna and sorority member under the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) (Zeleny et al., 2020). Thus, Harris' identity and storyline became a personified view of inclusivity, further emphasizing her culturally and historically significant election. As the 2024 U.S. presidential …

Editorial Statement, Sakina Jangbar

Journal of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies

No abstract provided.

Artist Statement, Carmen Collins

Journal of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies

No abstract provided.

Closing The Literacy Gap: Correlation Of Chronic Illnesses On Reading Fluency, Nicolette Falvo

Education Theses

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of chronic physical health issues on literacy fluency among students spanning Pre-Kindergarten through eighth grade. Chronic illnesses, such as asthma, diabetes, and sickle cell disease, can significantly hinder academic performance, particularly in literacy. This research seeks to explore how specific literacy interventions can improve reading fluency for students managing health-related challenges. Utilizing a single-subject design, the study will examine individual cases to determine the effectiveness of tailored literacy strategies. The methodology includes both a baseline assessment phase and an intervention phase. Baseline assessments revealed that students with chronic health conditions …

Investigating The Expression Of C-Myc And Birc5 In Trail And Pbox-15 Treated Metastatic Prostate Cancer Cells, Corinne Kai Leng Chew, Hannah O'Toole, Daniela M. Zisterer, Seema M. Nathwani, Jade K. Pollock

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

Purpose Metastatic prostate cancer is associated with poor survival rate and limited treatment options. Overexpression of c-Myc and BIRC5 has been reported in prostate cancer cells which contribute to the development of the tumour environment. The specific tumour receptor mechanism of the death ligand TRAIL (tumour necrosis factor related apoptosis inducing ligand) has attracted remarkable therapeutic interest. However, many cancer cells are resistant to TRAIL monotherapy. A novel microtubule-targeting agent, PBOX-15 is known to exhibit anti-tumour activity in cancer cell lines including those with multi-drug resistance. Previous studies demonstrated that PBOX-15 is capable in sensitising cancer cells to TRAIL-mediated cell …

Comparing Multivalent Cross-Linked Sodium Alginate/ Montmorillonite Beads Containing Curcumin Or Cayenne Pepper As Drug Carriers And Their Antimicrobial Resistance, Shionainn Traynor, Shubham Sharma

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

The aim of the following work was to investigate and compare curcumin and cayenne pepper in microbeads composed of sodium alginate (SA) crosslinked with montmorillonite (MMT) to act as drug carriers and their antimicrobial resistance. The microbeads were prepared through ion-exchange in multivalent solutions of CaCl₂, MgCl₂ and AlCl₃. The microbeads were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and the time required for intercalation of curcumin and cayenne pepper with MMT. Simulated intestinal fluid (pH 7.3) and gastric fluid (pH 1.2) at 37°C were used for comparison in swelling studies. …

Association Between Body Mass Index, Abdominal Obesity And Menopause-Related Symptoms In Postmenopausal Women, Brianna A. Rice, Patricia Heavey

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

Abstract: Existing research demonstrates a lack of data on the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and menopause-related symptoms in postmenopausal women, particularly in Ireland. This study aimed to determine whether there is an association between BMI, general abdominal obesity and menopause-related symptoms in postmenopausal women. This should help bridge the data gap regarding postmenopausal women living in Ireland and their symptoms. Introduction: Menopause is defined as the permanent cessation of a woman's menstrual cycle. This is caused by a reduction of the secretion of oestrogen and progesterone, leading to reduced ovarian function. These changes have been attributed …

Reframing The Management Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Investigating The Efficacy Of A Modified Low Fodmap Diet Approach On Symptom Response, Tara Howley, Lorraine Cooney, Suzanne L. Doyle

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

Background/ Objectives: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of gut-brain interaction with a multi-faceted pathogenesis. A diet low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs), known as a low FODMAP diet (LFD), is an effective management option for many, however, it is complex, costly, and restrictive. A milder, modified low FODMAP diet (MLFD) is one suggested alternative, however, data on this approach is lacking. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of a MLFD versus a LFD on symptom improvement in IBS.

Subjects/ Methods: Routine clinical data collected on individuals with a Rome IV IBS diagnosis between August …

Tension Recordings From Primary Bronchi In Acta2-Gcamp8.1-Mvermilion Transgenic Mice, Qais Khalaf, Srijit Ghosh, Keith Thornbury

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

Contractions in smooth muscle cells are initiated by elevation of cytosolic Ca²⁺. It is of interest to measure Ca²⁺ signals in these cells. Transgenic Acta2-GCaMP8.1-mVermilion (GCaMP) mice express a genetically encoded intracellular fluorescent Ca²⁺ indicator in smooth muscle cells, have been developed to facilitate the study of Ca²⁺. However, there is a concern that the GCaMP Ca²⁺ indicator might buffer Ca²⁺ and interfere with the signals it is designed to measure. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare tension responses in GCaMP and wild type (WT) mice to determine if …

Review: Cell Mechanisms In The Control Of Inflammatory Foundations Of Obesity And Secondary Metabolic Disorders, Kristin Goldstone, Keelin Irwin, Ava O' Meara-Cushen, Cathy Brougham

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

Review: Obesity is a global threat to human health that is precipitating epidemically, with almost 2 billion adults categorised as overweight or obese in 2016. Ireland has one of the highest reports of obesity in Europe with 60% of Irish adults reported as overweight or obese. Inflammation plays an integral role in disease pathogenesis and is a major hallmark of obesity and obesity-related secondary co-morbidities. Obesity-related inflammation can precipitate several diseases, such breast cancer, insulin resistance, type II diabetes and cardiovascular issues. As obesity puts human health at inherent risk, the regulation of obesity-related inflammation is therefore a necessary component …

Mathematical Modelling Of Disease Outbreak, Favour Christian, Matthew Molloy

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

Establishing a model framework for more research necessitates a thorough understanding of the causes, distribution, prevalence, and evolution of infectious illnesses. The main mathematical concept used in this modelling simulation is ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The purpose of this study was to investigate the significance of the many criteria linked to a zombie virus spread. The zombie framework provides an accessible and relatively simple representation of the nature of infectious disease spread, allowing for tractable assumptions and the development of more complex situations.

The models are designed around a zombie outbreak in which the zombie virus is spread through a …

Investigation Into The Effect Of Aspartame On The Expression Of P53 And Bax In Mouse Stomach Tissue, Angelique Cheryl, Aoife Mac Cooey

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

Introduction: The recent reclassification of aspartame as a Group 2B hazard by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, along with studies suggesting links to cancer, has raised concerns and prompted further investigation. Evidence suggests that aspartame exposure may alter p53 and BAX gene expression, affecting apoptosis in cancer cells. This study aims to examine how aspartame exposure affects p53 and BAX gene expression in normal mouse stomach tissue, shedding light on cellular stress and apoptosis mechanisms.

Methods: Mice were sacrificed, and stomach tissue was excised and divided into control and treatment groups. RNA extraction was carried out in the …

Total Organic Carbon Analysis Of Residual Contaminants In Bioreactor Equipment: A Cleaning Verification Study Using Surface Swabbing, Ciara E. Fitzpatrick, James J. Roche

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

Contamination is a major issue in the biopharmaceutical industry. Bioreactors must be meticulously cleaned to remove residual impurities and avoid cross-contamination. Cleaning validation is necessary to ensure residual contaminants are reduced to the lowest acceptable limits. Bacterial cells represent the paramount challenge in manufacturing equipment cleaning because they are composed of insoluble organic contaminants. Total organic carbon (TOC) analysis is a fast, highly sensitive, and inexpensive analytical technique commonly used to evaluate the approximate level of organic contamination.

A study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of cleaning procedures in the removal of contaminants from bioreactor equipment by measuring the …

Editorial - Sure Journal Vol 6, Anne M. Friel, Eva Campion, Sinead Loughran

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

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Career And Advising Services Integration., Leezel F. Ramos, Josh C. Oakland

MAGIS: Student Development Journal

Career services exist on college campuses to provide support and guidance for students in their career formation and development. This paper proposes a career services model that integrates academic advising, continuing professional development, and collaboration. Framing site visits and interviews with student affairs practitioners focused on collaboration and student learning, this paper brings together four examples of emerging practices in career services as a way to increase student success and retention. A literature review was also conducted to understand best practices across the fields of career and academic advising and how advisers are supported as professionals in the field of …