Digital Commons Network^™

From Gossip To Guidance: Analyzing Student Posting On Yik Yak, Mikayla Nemgar

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

This study examines how college students at Minnesota State University, Mankato, use the anonymous social media app Yik Yak, and what they discuss within it. Using qualitative content analysis, 963 anonymous posts were collected and coded into five initial categories: (1) Seeking and Sharing Information, (2) Giving Raw and Unfiltered Opinions, (3) Attempting to Socialize, (4) Seeking Belonging, and (5) Complaining. The findings show that most posts expressed raw opinions, followed by seeking for belonging. Sub-themes emerged in these two categories, which offered more specific examples of how students use Yik Yak. These trends provide insight into how anonymity may …

Exploring Facilitators’ Experiences Addressing Students’ Needs In A Higher Education Work-Based Engineering Program, Cody D. Mann

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

This study addresses a critical gap in higher education by examining the unique facilitator position at Iron Range Engineering (IRE), a work-based program at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Facilitators are full-time teaching staff in support roles that focus on helping students achieve positive outcomes, such as students successfully transitioning into working professionals. No formal research has been conducted to explore the comprehensive support and overall implications of this role. This qualitative study focused on phenomenography to capture the different experiences of 12 facilitator participants. Data collection was guided by role theory to explore the expectations and perceptions of facilitators, and …

From Enrollment To Graduation: How Social Support Shapes Latino Educational Trajectories In Minnesota, Erick Heaney

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

Latino students represent the fastest-growing racial/ethnic group in the United States, yet their post-secondary completion rates remain significantly lower than those of other student populations. This study explores the educational trajectories of Latino students in Minnesota, focusing on the role of social support networks in shaping persistence and attainment. The research identifies peer and family support as the strongest predictors of Latino students' confidence to graduate (p < .001), underscoring the central role of close personal networks in persistence. Findings suggest that while financial and structural barriers continue to hinder success, culturally responsive support systems can positively influence degree attainment. Although centered on Minnesota, the study offers broader implications for higher education policy and practice, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions and institutional accountability in addressing equity gaps. Strengthening support for Latino students is essential to advancing educational and economic opportunity nationwide.

Embodied Affliction: Somalis’ Perception Of Trauma, Ahmed M. Hassan

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

Somali immigrants and refugees have a high rate of trauma, mainly because of their traumatic experiences during the Somali civil war and subsequent migration. Nevertheless, they do not readily access available psychological services in the countries to which they migrate. Research of the past two decades has revealed that different cultures conceptualize and communicate mental distress differently from one another. Those differences affect how Western mental health providers approach the treatment of clients who immigrate from an unfamiliar culture to Western countries, where the biomedical model of mental health dominates the health care system. Improved cultural awareness and communication between …

Implementing Information Literacy Practices In Curriculum, Ongelle Schroeder

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

This literature review explores the value of integrating information literacy instruction into existing curricula, with a focus on collaboration between faculty and librarians. As students face an overwhelming volume of information, equipping them with the skills to navigate, evaluate, and use sources effectively is increasingly essential—especially in course that require source-based writing, research, and critical analysis. The review highlights key approaches and resources to support educators in embedding information literacy into instruction. While this literature review was written for the contexts of ENG 101 and COMM 100/102, its themes are applicable to a wide range of teaching contexts.

Oer Faculty Fellowship, Leila Walker

Open Educational Resources

No abstract provided.

Goncharov (1973), Internet Folklore, And Corporate Copyright, Stacey M. Lantagne Professor Of Law

Vanderbilt Journal of Entertainment & Technology Law

Goncharov (1973) is a meme, which is a term broadly used to refer to a species of viral internet creativity. Memes can be many different things, but Goncharov is an especially rich, complex, collaborative, and mutating one. It revolves around a movie that does not exist. Goncharov is a fictional Martin Scorsese film that the internet collectively pretends was produced in 1973. Over the course of a few feverish weeks in the fall of 2022, social media users, with no coordination and without knowledge of each other or the overall project, created a cast, storyline, soundtrack, reviews, fanfiction, and a …

Remote Sensing - Based Mapping And Analysis Of Winter Cover Crop Adoption For Sustainable Agriculture, Minnehaha County, Belinda Buechler

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Winter cover crops planted by farmers such as cereal rye, crimson clover, radishes, hairy vetch, and winter wheat are used to conserve and protect the soil during winter. These crops offer numerous benefits such as improving soil health, reducing erosion, fixing nitrogen, increasing carbon sequestration, and weed suppression. Over time, winter cover cropping has been recognized as a sustainable agricultural practice and has gained attention from Federal and State conservation programs, farmers, and non-governmental organizations. Due to their vital benefits, agencies such as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conversation Services (NRCS) have partnered with cost-share programs …

Understanding Relationships Among Fish And Environmental Conditions To Guide Adaptive Fisheries Management, Madalyn K. Siller

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Phytogenic Feed Additives Pre- And Post-Calving And Effects Of Substituting Ddgs With Soybean Meal On Protein Metabolism In Beef Cattle, Grace H. Jardon

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The objective of these studies was to evaluate nutritional strategies to improve beef cattle productivity through targeted supplementation and protein source manipulation. The first study investigated the effects of a phytogenic supplement (PHYT; a blend of turmeric, capsicum, and black pepper oleoresin) on colostrum yield and composition, calf passive immunity, and cow–calf performance. Twenty-three Angus-based cows were assigned to either a control group or received 250 or 500 mg/head/day of PHYT from 30 days pre-calving to 60 days post-calving. Supplementation with PHYT linearly increased colostrum fat and calf serum IgA concentrations. Milk fat, calf serum IgG, and colostrum IgM tended …

White Coats And Scrubs: Bridging The Gaps In Accommodation, Tristan Stauffacher

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Effective communication between nurses and physicians is critical for patient safety, yet these interactions often occur within hierarchical structures that can hinder open dialogue and collaboration. This study explores nurse-physician communication through the lens of Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT), specifically focusing on how nurses accommodate their communication using the framework’s strategies. Drawing on qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with registered nurses, this study identifies key themes including convergence, organizational silence, and maintenance as strategies that nurses engage in. The findings of this study reveal that accommodation choices are not solely motivated by intrinsic goals but can be motivated by external …

Modeling Fluid Flow In Complex Biological Systems: Implications For Dense Tumor Microenvironments, Metastasis, And Bone Cancer, Mohammad Mehedi Hasan Akash

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The transport of biofluids in physiological systems plays a critical role in understanding and optimizing therapeutic interventions for diseases such as cancer and respiratory infections. This dissertation focuses on developing and validating a comprehensive computational framework for studying multiphase transport in complex biological environments. The research emphasizes the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to simulate and analyze plasma perfusion in solid tumors, particle deposition in respiratory airways, and fluid transport in cancer metastasis and bone cancer systems. By addressing the challenges of modeling biological transport phenomena, this work provides valuable insights into therapeutic planning and experimental validation. The study …

Synchronization Protocols Utilizing Progesterone Implants Associated With Estrus Expression, Vaginal Microbiome, And Immune Response In Beef Cattle, Riley James Puck

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This thesis aims to provide a deep understanding of presynchronization strategies and the varying factors affecting their efficacy. Beginning with a literature review of the estrous cycle and the endocrinology driving it. Building on this foundation, the physiological basis for estrous synchronization is described, followed by the advancement of pre-synchronization protocols designed to increase estrus and conception. Further, we will focus on the influence of estrus expression on insemination time and conception rates. Finally, how the immune system interacts with the conception process. In addition, the review goes beyond exogenous endocrine manipulation and dives into the emerging role of the …

Determining The Susceptibility Status Of Red Sunflower Seed Weevil, Smicronyx Fulvus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) To Pyrethroid Insecticides, Aaron Lee Hargens

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Although sunflowers are native to North America, the early breeding efforts to improve sunflowers occurred outside of the continent. These hybrids were reintroduced to North America around 1875. In the early 1900’s, efforts to increase oil content were achieved by selective breeding of the reintroduced hybrids. Although this resulted in the development of improved sunflowers, many of the traits that conferred resistance to native insect pests were lost. One insect pest, the red sunflower seed weevil was noted as having caused sunflower production to rapidly decline and eventually end in Illinois and Missouri. Unfortunately, red sunflower seed weevils are still …

Quantification Of Auxin-Cytokinin Response During Lateral Root And Nodule Development In Medicago, Aniket Singh

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Lateral roots (LRs) and nodules are post-embryonic root organs in legumes formed through the activity of de novo meristem. LRs, which are present in all vascular plants, are developed primarily via intrinsic developmental cues, whereas root nodules, found only in a small group of plants known as legumes, are formed in response to legume–rhizobium symbiosis. LRs arise from the pericycle layer of the root, whereas nodule initiation can begin either in the pericycle (indeterminate nodules with persistent meristem, as in Medicago) or in the cortex (determinate nodules with transient meristem, as in soybean), pointing toward a conserved developmental origin, especially …

Generative Ai In The Workplace: Adoption Patterns, Innovation Attributes, And Equity Implications At Bhssc, Andrew Ley

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This case study explores generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) adoption patterns, innovation attributes, and equity implications within a diverse educational cooperative in western South Dakota. A mixed methods approach was employed to analyze adoption trends, perceived productivity differentials, and the significance of key innovation characteristics to 40 employees representing a range of divisions, roles, and levels of digital competence. Employees with lower self-reported digital competence and higher average age reported disproportionately higher perceived productivity gains from GenAI tools. This may suggest GenAI may level the playing field for aging individuals who have previously felt marginalized by rapid technological change in the …

Evaluation Of Soil Microbiome And Edaphic Factors In Response To Nitrogen Fertilizer Application In Western South Dakota Croplands, Riya Jain

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Extended Days On Feed: Influences On Growth Performance, Efficiency, And Carcass Characteristics Of Steers And Heifers Of Different Proportions Of Angus And Limousin Genetics, Grace Henley Olinger

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Recently, cattle feeders have extended days on feed (DOF) resulting in hot carcass weights (HCW) exceeding the limits of existing serial slaughter datasets. This study's goal was to determine the impact extended DOF exerts on growth performance, feed efficiency, and carcass characteristics of steers and heifers with varying proportions of Angus (AN) and Limousin (LM) genetics. In 2022, commercial AN cows from two MT ranches were artificially inseminated to 9 sires from 3 breeds (AN, LM, and Limflex (LF)) with parentage confirmed by DNA. In 2023, 216 calves (sired by 72 AN, 73 LF, and 71 LM; 105 steers and …

Studying Associations Among Mental Health And Psycap In Persons With Stuttering, Jasmine Lydia Selvaraj, James R. Spears, Priscilla Rose Prasath, Gayathri Purushothaman

Counseling Faculty Publications and Presentations

This cross-sectional, psychometric validation and comparative analysis study investigates the associations between mental health and Psychological Capital (PsyCap) in persons with stuttering (PWS; n = 60) and fluent speakers (FS; n = 60), while validating the Tamil translations of the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF) and Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ). Exploratory Factor Analyses, Cronbach’s alphas, and item-total correlations were used to evaluate the scales with a sample size of 120 participants. The conducted factor analyses demonstrated that the translated MHC-SF aligns structurally with prior studies, as compared to the PCQ, which diverged in factor loadings. The study also applied Independent …

The Physiology Of Exercise, Rosie Lanphere

Open Educational Resources

The Physiology of Exercise (3rd Edition) is an essential resource for upper-level undergraduates studying exercise science. Written by Rosie Lanphere, PhD, CSCS, this text provides a clear and comprehensive exploration of how the human body responds and adapts to physical activity.

Covering metabolism, energy expenditure, and the integrated roles of the nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine, muscular, and respiratory systems, this edition reflects the latest research and practical applications in the field.

Designed with students in mind, each chapter includes learning objectives, key terms, and scholarly questions to reinforce understanding. Whether preparing for a career in exercise science or professional certification, this …

Family Roots And Research Journal Unm Emeritus Professor José A. Rivera, José A. Rivera Ph.D

Faculty Publications

This article is an abbreviated life narrative of UNM Emeritus Professor of Community and Regional Planning, José A. Rivera. It begins with highlights of his family ancestry and continues with an account of his educational experiences K-12 and into a decade of university life as a student while earning a bachelor’s, two master’s and a doctorate. He taught at UNM for 35 years while also conducting research in his areas of interest, mostly in community irrigation studies, mutual aid societies, and rural development. The main body in the article focuses on positions he held at UNM and on publications that …

Challenges And Future Strategies For B-Schools, Anatoly Zhuplev, Francisco J. Valle, Jose Rincón, Max Plithides

Management Faculty Works

This chapter examines the evolution of American higher education (HE) and business schools (B-schools) in the historical and contemporary strategic context. It explores the influence of the Humboldtian model on the contemporary HE industry in America. The chapter analyzes the current HE landscape, revenue sources, and global reach. The chapter investigates strategic disruptors like demographic shifts, skyrocketing costs of college and student loan burden, technological impacts, including proliferation of IT and AI, eroding public confidence in HE, and political and regulatory trends. The chapter explores solutions like accreditation reform and diversified credentials. It examines pressures on B-schools, including slow technology …

Examination Of The International Judicial Practice And Prospect In Relation To The Palestine–Israel Conflict: Following The Al-Aqsa Flood Operation, Sharefah A. Almahuna

Seattle Journal for Social Justice

This paper concerns the conflict in Gaza that started on the Seventh of October, 2023, and is ongoing. It intends to explain the judicial institutions that prevent and punish atrocity crimes, particularly the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC). Additionally, this paper provides an objective analysis of some controversial issues brought about by the conflict. It addresses issues of controversy by answering the following questions: first, why are both the ICJ and ICC involved in the current conflict in Gaza?; second, why does Israel argue that judicial proceedings should treat acts committed in Gaza as …

Works Of Audience, Works Of Authorship, And The Human’S Way Of Knowing, Michael Mactaggert

Seattle Journal for Social Justice

No abstract provided.

The Legal Intersectionality Of English Language Learners And Special Education Students: Ensuring Students Receive Mandated Services, Brett A. Geier

Seattle Journal for Social Justice

Students in the United States are afforded many rights and protections to ensure they receive an appropriate education. Supplemental programs that support academic achievement and social growth are common to eviscerate obstacles and equalize educational opportunities. Students who are disabled and students who qualify as English Language Learners are two categories that are entitled to receive state and federal financial and programmatic support. Despite being discrete programs, they have the potential to intersect so that students can qualify for both programs. For many reasons, though, these potentially dually qualifying students are often misidentified, leaving them underserved. There is a plethora …

I Thought I Found My One True Love: Enabling A Web Of Exploitation On Social Media, Amos N. Guiora, Rosalie Rawlins

Seattle Journal for Social Justice

When Amanda Todd first shared a sexually explicit photo with the person who would end up exploiting her, she was just a child, with no idea the dangerous web she would soon be caught up in. Amanda, one of the most notorious victims of child sexual exploitation via the internet, is just one of the growing number of minors who are subjected to this form of abuse each year. According to the FBI, internet exploitation of minors has increased exponentially in recent years. Amanda’s tragic example, and that of other vulnerable young people, makes the case for demanding accountability for …

Worker Protection Or Commercial Facilitation: The British Empire, Labor Governance And The Gradual Invisibilization Of Labor Coercion During The Age Of High Imperialism, Christopher Roberts, Michelle Ong

Seattle Journal for Social Justice

This article considers labor governance and coercive labor practices in the British Empire between the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. In particular, it focuses its attention on several major commissions of inquiry undertaken around the British Empire in the period, as well as reforms that took place alongside those inquiries. In part, the article concludes these reforms were motivated by protective purposes, demonstrating some degree of genuine concern with workers’ well-being. More significantly, however, it finds these reforms were motivated by British imperial desire to ensure stable labor supplies, enhance the legitimacy of the British Empire, and establish more …

An Acceptable Time, Crystal Mccallie

Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers

This scholarly work is my interpretation of the art in the exhibition, An Acceptable Time, which ecompasses a diversity of media that varies as much in material and process as the span of my life as mother, a steward of the domestic home, and a spiritual child-at-heart myself. At the center of the work is a contemplative beauty inviting the viewer to linger with the art and reflect upon the echoes of the past as they might affect the present. The formal delivery of illustrative realism, a mirage of pattern, and abstract layering draws out major themes of memory, nostalgia, …

Situation Assessment Of Wildland Fire Preparedness Efforts In Missoula County: A Communities Of Practice Approach, Sylvia K. Coston

Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers

Due to the multi-jurisdictional nature and increased risk of wildland fire, collaboratives play an important role in creating long-term solutions for building prepared and resilient wildfire landscapes and communities. Drawing from Communities of Practice (CoP) theory, mutual engagement, shared repertoire, and negotiation of a joint enterprise are critical elements of establishing natural resource multi-stakeholder collaboratives or partnerships. This professional paper uses CoP theory to conduct and analyze a situation assessment of Missoula County Fire Protection Association (MCFPA). With the support of MCFPA, three focus groups (working meetings) and two interviews were conducted to identify the association’s successes, challenges, and needs. …

Trace Level Benzoylecgonine Detections In Equine Plasma/Serum – A Proposed Interim Plasma Level Regulatory “Cut-Off“, Andreas F. Lehner, Kimberly Brewer, Levent Dirikolu, Abelardo Morales Briceñod, Robert Holland, George Maylin, Clara Fenger, Thomas Tobin

Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center Faculty Publications

Cocaine is a widely used human recreational substance routinely transferring at pharmacologically irrelevant trace level amounts to non-user humans and horses. Horses and humans rapidly demethylate cocaine to benzoylecgonine which is excreted in urine at concentrations approaching two thousand times higher than the corresponding plasma cocaine concentrations. In human workplace drug testing, these usually pharmacologically irrelevant trace level urinary detections of benzoylecgonine are handled by application of a 100 ng/ml urinary “cut-off“, as presented by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In horse racing several American states have long used published urinary “cut-offs“ for benzoylecgonine of from …