Digital Commons Network^™

The Impact Of Lactobacillus Supplementation On Gut Microbiome Composition And Phage Induction In Mice, Kimia Boreiri

Dissertations

The mammalian gastrointestinal (GI) tract harbors a dense and dynamic community of microbes known as the gut microbiota, which plays vital roles in digestion, immunity, and overall health. Among these, probiotic bacteria such as Lactobacillus strains have garnered attention for their ability to influence microbial community structure and host physiology. This study investigated the effects of five Lactobacillus strains, Lactobacillus casei R1A482, Lactobacillus casei O3, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Lactobacillus gasseri ATCC 33323, and Lactobacillus paragasseri UMB1065, on the gut microbiome of Swiss Webster mice over a six-week feeding period. To reduce stress, mice were fed Lactobacillus strains using gelatin pellets …

Investigating The Mechanism Of Resistance To Ido1 Enzyme Inhibitor Treatment In Human Glioblastoma, Kyla Shivakumar Hatton

Dissertations

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and most aggressive form of adult cancer in the central nervous system, with GBM accounting for the majority of all malignant brain tumors. GBM is currently considered to be an incurable form of cancer, with over 14,000 patients diagnosed in the United States last year. Given the success of immunotherapy for treating other types of cancer, our group has investigated the possibility of therapeutically neutralizing immunosuppressive indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) in patients with GBM. Canonically, IDO1 is an immunosuppressive cytoplasmic enzyme that catalyzes the first step in metabolizing L-tryptophan into L-kynurenine (ie. ↓L-Trp→↑L-Kyn). …

Capturing Diverse Adolescents’ Social Contexts: The Development Of An Ethnic-Racial Microaffirmations Scale For Peer Interactions, Maria Radulescu

Dissertations

The development of a strong and positive sense of ethnic-racial identity (ERI) has been identified as an asset for ethnically and racially marginalized adolescents. Peer interactions during the adolescent years can support ERI development. In particular, a subtle micro-level form of peer support—microaffirmations—may be protective for ERI processes. However, the field of microaffirmations is very small, and there is no scale that captures adolescents’ experiences of ethnic-racial microaffirmations from their peers. The current study developed an ethnic-racial peer microaffirmations scale based on extant literature and feedback from 4 focus groups with 22 sophomore high school students. Findings indicated that 5 …

“What’S Happening In The Gulf Of Maine?”: Middle School Students’ Engagement In Climate Science Through Data Visual Representation And Reflections, Grace Ocular

Dissertations

This study examined how middle school students engaged with science concepts while working with data visualizations during a field trip learning experience. Fifty-one teams of 2–4 students from 35 schools participating in the LabVenture program were video- and audio-recorded. Students completed two activities: one using a frequency table of marine species illustrating threats to Maine’s lobster population, and another using maps depicting changes in Gulf of Maine sea surface temperature. After each activity, students annotated the visualization, discussed their claims, and recorded short reflections. Transcripts were coded for science-related talk, and annotations and gestures were also analyzed. Findings indicate that …

The Bacterial Sensing Nuclear-Oligomerization Domain 2 Receptor In The Brain: Location And Potential Function, Julia Smyth

Dissertations

Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-2 (NOD2) is a cytosolic receptor, activated by bacterial peptides that initiates innate immune responses through nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and Caspase-1 pathways. While the role of NOD2 in inflammation outside the central nervous system (CNS) is well-established, especially in the gastrointestinal system, its expression and function in the brain remain poorly defined. Previous genetic studies suggest a link between NOD2 and neurological and psychiatric conditions, including stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and schizophrenia. However, information regarding NOD2 expression, localization, and function in the CNS is limited. In this work, we investigated NOD2 expression, localization, and regulation …

"I'M Not Having Fun Anymore": A Qualitative Analysis Of Gender And Harassment In Bars And Clubs, Phoebe Marie Jackson

Dissertations

Sexual harassment, while often spoken about in hushed tones or ignored altogether, happens frequently and often loudly. 66 percent of women who have experienced sexual harassment report that the harassment took place in a public space, such as work, school, or on the street (Kearl, 2018). Harassment is not discreet, but rather normalized, and those who experience it are expected to brush it off or take it in their stride. However, such harassment and subsequent dehumanization has a deteriorating effect on the mental well-being of those affected (Graham et. al., 2016). This study aims to hone in on the effect …

Episodes In Computing History - Salon Talk, George K. Thiruvathukal

Computer Science: Faculty Publications and Other Works

This talk (first given in 2004) presents a concise overview of key developments in the history of computing. It begins with early methods of counting and recordkeeping, such as tally sticks and the Inca quipu. It then traces the evolution of numeric systems, including Roman and Hindu-Arabic notation, and the mathematical contributions of figures like Al-Khwarizmi. Mechanical computing devices such as the abacus, Napier’s bones, and the Pascaline are examined, along with the Jacquard loom and its use of punch cards.

The talk continues through the rise of electronic computing, highlighting milestones such as ENIAC, the work of Alan Turing, …

Urban Coyotes As A Source Of Conflict With Humans: An Evaluation Of Common Management Practices, Paul D. Curtis, David L. Bergman, Angeline Barker, Daniel Bogan, Mary Ann Bonnell, Pierre Canac-Marquis, David Drake, Dave Kay, Brian F. Wakeling, H. Bryant White

Human–Wildlife Interactions Monographs

Wildlife often serves as a catalyst for conflict among stakeholders. Management actions that are intended to address sources of disagreement may initiate additional conflict. The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies Human–Wildlife Conflict Working Group initiated an effort to identify management actions commonly used to address unwanted coyote (Canis latrans) interactions within urban environments and identify the benefits and challenges associated with each action. Challenges with coyotes in urban environments include aggressive behavior toward humans and pets, attacks, disease exposure, and domestic livestock damage. Although elimination of all attractants would prove preventative in most instances, in practice this …

Cultivating Community-University Partnerships Within The Chicago Region Food System, Hanan Abdillahi, Vivian Cossey, Tania Schusler, Kevin Erickson, Karen Schauwecker, Sarah Ku, Ray Dybzinski

School of Environmental Sustainability: Faculty Publications and Other Works

We interviewed 22 organizations in the Chicago Regional Food System to gain insights on their current initiatives, assets, challenges, future visions, and perceived roles of universities in advancing their work. We analyzed themes to report on strong consensus or varied perspectives related to this work. This report aims to advise Loyola’s School of Environmental Sustainability's future work and collaboration activities with Chicago Food System organizations.

The Effect Of Social Hierarchy And Captivity On Behavior In Cercopithecus Petaurista, Haley Bombard

Undergraduate Scholarship and Creative Works

The social hierarchy within three Cercopithecus petaurista individuals was studied to determine how the influence of captivity affects behavior. The three individuals were monitored from August-November, and the data retained was focused on aggression and allogrooming behaviors. The group consisted of one dominant male and two females in the Central Florida Zoo, and behavioral observations were recorded at 10-minute intervals. Results showed that the dominant male infrequently engaged in allogrooming behavior but more often received it from the less dominant females. The hierarchy and social status of the females was shown and influenced by the allogrooming given and received between …

Pre-Migration Victimization And Fear Of Violent Crime Among New Arrivals In Chicago / Victimización Y Miedo Al Crimen Violento En El País De Origen De Los Migrantes Recién Llegados A Chicago, Cristian L. Paredes, Keyla Navarrete, Anna E. Bullock, Brianna Hernandez, Raymond A. Akumbilim

Sociology: Faculty Publications and Other Works

This project explores the situations and experiences of new arrivals/asylum seekers who have recently arrived in Chicago. Chicago has experienced a significant increase in the number of newcomers, due to Operation Lone Star, launched by Texas Governor Greg Abbott in March 2021. Since August 2022, Governor Abbott has bused more than 30,000 migrants to Chicago. The City of Chicago has acknowledged its responsibility to welcome everyone regardless of immigration status, adopting a proactive stance toward this humanitarian emergency. However, newcomers still struggle to get access to basic needs in the city. We have conducted a face-to-face, cross-sectional survey to collect …

Integrated Qfd-Triz Optimization Method For Satellite Solar Array Design In Cost-Sensitive Environment, Hongyi Zhang, Liang Su

International Journal of Aviation, Aeronautics, and Aerospace

With the rapid evolution of commercial space markets in the new space era, satellite design philosophy is transitioning from "performance supremacy" toward "cost-effectiveness priority." This research concentrates on solar arrays, a critical component representing 15%-20% of satellite costs, addressing limitations in traditional design methodologies that inadequately coordinate user requirements and lack systematic frameworks for cost-performance collaborative optimization. We propose a solar array optimization methodology predicated on the integration of Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ). This methodology incorporates cost dimensions through an extended QFD matrix, employs TRIZ to resolve technical contradictions, and develops a …

Suas Agricultural Aerial Application Operational Field Test, David Thirtyacre, Joseph Cerreta, Scott S. Burgess

International Journal of Aviation, Aeronautics, and Aerospace

One of the most promising uses of aerial applications by a sUAS is on small farms where traditional crewed aerial applicators were not practical due to the limited size of the operations. This controlled field test aimed to assess the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of using a sUAS spreading system compared to the traditional manual application of weed killer and fertilizer on cranberry bogs in Western Washington that were less than 10 acres. The aerial application took place over two separate days as scheduled by the farmer for maximum product efficiency. A total of sixty-three flights were necessary to apply the …

Bibliometric Analysis With R Biblioshiny On Safety Behavior In Aviation, Büşra Yıldırım, İnan Eryılmaz, Ahmet Karacan, Nusret Erceylan

International Journal of Aviation, Aeronautics, and Aerospace

Safety behaviors in aviation are not limited to technical knowledge and skills in ensuring the safety of flight operations, but also include the attitudes, decision-making processes and collaborations of individuals and teams. In this context, in this study, a bibliometric analysis of publication and citation trends, key concepts and interactions of studies in the field was conducted to identify current and potential trends in aviation and safety behavior-based research, and to explore the intersections between safety behavior and aviation studies and the areas waiting to be explored. The bibliometric analysis using the RStudio-based Biblioshiny program was conducted on 1065 articles …

Evaluating The Reporting And Safety Culture Of An Airline According To Patankar And Sabin's Safety Culture Pyramid, Seda Mumlu Karanfil

International Journal of Aviation, Aeronautics, and Aerospace

As a result of the literature review, it is seen that the safety management system in airline businesses is mostly evaluated with Reason's just culture model. The fact that there is no research examining Patankar and Sabin's (2010) safety culture pyramid on airline operations, except for a study conducted in the field of ground handling services (Poçar, Işık, & Durmaz, 2022), constitutes the importance and unique value of the research. As stated by Poçar et al. (2022), Patankar and Sabin's (2010) safety culture pyramid is not sufficiently included in practice, and this model is important in terms of drawing attention …

Design, Implementation, And Testing Of Spatial Disorientation Scenarios In A Modified Hexapod Motion Simulator, Jarod Hinckley, Ryan Paul, Logan Rock, Joe Conner, Jon M. Loffi

International Journal of Aviation, Aeronautics, and Aerospace

Abstract

Investigations into aviation accidents aim to identify root causes and enhance safety. Despite advancements in safety measures, technology, and education, general aviation accident rates remain stable, with loss of control identified as the leading cause. Spatial disorientation is a significant contributing factor in these incidents, accounting for approximately 10% of general aviation accidents—90% of which are fatal. Addressing spatial disorientation is increasingly critical with the emergence of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) vehicles, a sector projected to reach a $30 billion market by 2030. While AAM is expected to transition toward full autonomy, human pilots will operate these vehicles during …

Generalizing Classification Of Pilot Workload: Transfer Learning Versus A Jepa-Inspired Transformer Architecture, Naim Barnett, Shivani Nagrecha, Morgan Glover, Clayton Harper, Justin Wilson, James Maher, Eric C. Larson

International Journal of Aviation, Aeronautics, and Aerospace

Within the context of learning, there poses difficulty when objectively measuring human performance. In this work, we investigate the evaluation of human performance via its relation to the individual's mental capacity by classification of cognitive load within the domain of aviation. By utilizing a mixed virtual and physical flight simulation environment in conjunction with biometric sensing, we create and evaluate the predictive capabilities of a Joint-Embedding Predictive Architecture (JEPA) and compare the architecture and results to traditional methods for transfer learning and domain adaptation. We find that our JEPA inspired architecture can achieve more than 70% accuracy of cognitive workload, …

Remember The Hand: Manuscription In Early Medieval Iberia By Catherine Brown, Lara Farina

Medieval Feminist Forum: A Journal of Gender and Sexuality

No abstract provided.

Lipid Biomarkers For Marine Fungi, Emily Cooper

School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences Theses

Marine fungi play key roles as parasites and saprotrophs in marine ecosystems and are important degraders of organic matter. They likely facilitate the remineralisation of marine carbon, thus have a profound impact on marine biogeochemical cycles. However, as little is known about their global abundance and biomass, fungi are yet to be included in biogeochemical models. Lipid biomarkers can be used to assess microbial abundance and biomass due to their specificity and may be utilised to explore the viability and trophic dynamics of marine microbial communities. Although lipid biomarkers for fungi have been used in terrestrial environments, such as soils, …

Assessment And Monitoring Of Treatment Fidelity In A Multiple Behaviour Change Intervention For Smokers Wishing To Reduce But Not Quit., Jane Horrell

Peninsula Medical School Theses

BackgroundIntervention fidelity considers the extent to which a behavioural intervention has been designed, delivered, and experienced as intended. The National Institute of Health’s Behaviour Change Consortium (NIH-BCC) provides a leading framework to examine fidelity across five domains: design, training, delivery, receipt, and enactment. This thesis presents a programme of research to develop methods for monitoring and assessing fidelity in multiple health behaviour change (MHBC) interventions across these five domains. Methods developed are presented and tested using data from a Trial of physical Activity assisted Reduction of Smoking (TARS), a multi-site NIHR-HTA funded MHBC intervention.MethodsA mixed methods approach was adopted and …

The Usability Evaluation Of Digital Health Technologies: : Methods And Insights, Inocencio Maramba

Peninsula Medical School Theses

The Usability Evaluation of Digital Health Technologies: Methods and InsightsINOCENCIO DANIEL CORTES MARAMBAAbstract Background: Digital health technology holds promise for improving healthcare delivery, but usability is crucial for adoption and user safety. Whilst large companies often have user experience (UX) expertise, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) developing these technologies lack guidance for conducting usability evaluations. Furthermore, evidence of proper user testing is now required by Digital Technology Assessment Criteria (DTAC) being used by the National Health Service (NHS). Aim: To find ways to offer practical help to SMEs to carry out user experience testing. Methods: There were three stages to …

Differential Expression Of Proteins Involved In Sev Biogenesis And Secretion In Parkinson’S Disease And Dementia With Lewy Bodies, Anis Sahoo

Peninsula Medical School Theses

Exosomes, small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), play a pivotal role in cell-to-cell communication, carrying diverse biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Their ability to transport these molecules makes them fundamental to various physiological processes and valuable in diagnosing and treating disorders of the central nervous system (CNS). To fully utilise sEVs potential, more attention is needed to understand not only the cargo, but also proteins and pathways involved in the biogenesis of EVs, particularly in the context of diseases. This thesis explores changes in sEV-associated proteins in synucleinopathies, notably Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).Aims1. In …

Unh/Noaa Joint Hydrographic Center 2025 Performance And Progress Report Executive Summary, Larry A. Mayer

Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping

No abstract provided.

Unh/Noaa Joint Hydrographic Center 2025 Performance And Progress Report Executive Summary, Larry A. Mayer

Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping

Reporting Period: 01/01/2025–12/31/2025

Ethical Frontiers In Dentistry: Navigating Artificial And Augmented Intelligence, Robert A. Faiella Dmd, Mmsc., Mba

Journal of the American College of Dentists

The dental profession is continually evolving, and the emergence of artificial and augmented intelligence presents both transformative opportunities and critical challenges. Artificial intelligence generates automated outputs, and augmented intelligence synergistically integrates human expertise with machine-derived insights to enhance clinical judgment and decision-making. The terms will be used interchangeably here, abbreviated as AI.

The Ethical Dilemma Of Social Media, Janet H. Southerland

Journal of the American College of Dentists

Technology and digital communication have radically altered how we communicate and interact. As a consequence, the ethical use and application of technology within the profession, particularly the utilization of social media, is essential to preserving and upholding the tenets of professional conduct across dentistry.

J Am Coll Dent 2025 91 4

Journal of the American College of Dentists

The Journal of the American College of Dentists (JACD) publishes scholarly articles, editorials, essays, and reflections addressing the ethical, professional, and social dimensions of dentistry. The Journal serves as a forum for advancing ethics, professionalism, leadership, and excellence within the dental community. By fostering dialogue across disciplines and perspectives, JACD provides readers with insights that encourage ethical, professional practice, lifelong learning, and service to the public, reinforcing dentistry’s commitment to advancing oral healthcare and the common good.

Breaking Down The Silos: Dentistry’S Ethical Responsibility As A Partner In Healthcare, Toni M. Roucka Rn, Dds, Ma, Facd, Scott Tomar Dmd, Drph, Facd

Journal of the American College of Dentists

The Ethics Summit, Breaking Down the Silos: Dentistry’s Ethical Responsibility as a Partner in Healthcare, was held on September 12-13, 2024, in Rockville, Maryland. Sponsored by the American College of Dentists Foundation (ACDF) and the Santa Fe Group (SFG), this issue of the JACD is dedicated to the proceedings of that important event.

Federal Laws And On-Campus Supports For Students With Disabilities In Postsecondary Education, Bruce J. Reed, Raquel C. Vasquez, Claudia C. Gonzalez

School of Rehabilitation Services & Counseling Faculty Publications

In the United States, the attainment of a postsecondary degree is seen as an important milestone that leads to a financially rewarding career. College graduates can expect an increase of 75% in lifetime earnings compared to non-college graduates (Kumok & Hahn, 2023). It is estimated that in 2022, 54% of American adults had earned at least a bachelor's degree (Welding, 2023). Estimates vary as to the number of students with disabilities (SWD) attending postsecondary education ranging from 9-19% (Blasey et al., 2023). The true number of college SWD at any one time is unknown as students must self-report and seek …

Social-Emotional Learning In Out-Of-School Time Settings: A Mixed Methods Investigation Of Perceived Need, Kaitlin Halbert

Dissertations and Theses

This study examines the integration of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into Out-of-School Time (OOST) settings. It evaluates the perceived need for SEL curricula among OOST professionals, highlights potential benefits and barriers to implementation, and identifies necessary adaptations to tailor these programs for the unique OOST environment. Using a mixed-methods explanatory sequential design, including surveys (BIRS, URP-NEEDS, URP-IR) completed by 115 OOST providers and interviews with 10 providers, the research analyzes both quantitative and qualitative data. The results demonstrate a strong consensus among OOST professionals on the importance and value of SEL, acknowledging its potential to enhance student behavior, social …