Digital Commons Network^™

Could Password Sharing Entitle You To Monitor Your Partner's Social Media Accounts?, Irum Saeed Abbasi, David Khabaz, Maryam Abbasi, Greg Feist

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Social media offers a plethora of strangers cum friends whose photo shopped images seem idealistic and more appealing than one's primary partner. Due to the physical absence and lack of non-verbal cues, online communications can quickly become aggressive and emotionally intimate. Emotional intimacy between online friends is considered a betrayal in a dyadic relationship. To protect mates from external relationship threats, romantic partners may request and/or coerce their significant other for social media account passwords. In a sample of 299 adults (women = 246) between18 and 72 years (M = 21.12, SD = 5.39), we explored the participants’ attitudes toward …

Optogenetic Methods To Stimulate Gamma Motor Neuron Axons Ex Vivo, Apoorva Karekal, Remie Mandawe, Cameron Chun, Sai Kiran Byri, Danitza Cheline, Serena Ortiz, Shawn Hochman, Katherine A. Wilkinson

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

It is challenging to stimulate gamma motor neurons, which are important regulators of muscle spindle afferent function, without also recruiting alpha motor neurons. Here, we test the feasibility of stimulating gamma motor neuron axons using optogenetics in two transgenic mouse lines. We used an ex vivo muscle–nerve preparation in adult mice to monitor muscle spindle afferent firing, which should increase in response to gamma motor neuron-induced lengthening of the sensory region of the muscle spindle. A force transducer measured alpha motor neuron-mediated twitch contractions. Blue LED light (470 nm; 1–5 mW) was delivered via a light guide to the sciatic …

Machine Learning And Artificial Intelligence Models And Techniques In Modern Power Grid Communication Architecture, Majid Jamal Majid Salim Almheiri

Theses

Smart grid is evolving in different phases and artificial intelligence (AI) models are also the part of it. In the recent developments of Smart grid system there are research areas which are left unaddressed specifically in privacy techniques, scalability, more efficient data processing techniques. This Thesis highlights the research gaps on smart grid development across various integration phases. In the initial phase of Smart grid development, challenges included scalability issues in Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication, communication delays affecting voltage stabilization and high computational costs in implementing Genetic Algorithm (GA)-based grid state estimation are covered in this review report. Review is further …

Cultural Learning Of Metacognition: Evidence From Blind Individuals, Marissa Renee Bamberger, Lindsay N. Harris

CISLL Publications

The cultural origins hypothesis posits conscious metacognitive abilities in humans are acquired through cultural selection facilitated by cultural learning. Interpersonal broadcasting, much of which is nonverbal, is hypothesized to be one conduit of cultural learning. Thus, individuals with no or limited access to nonverbal information, such as blind persons, should have metacognitive abilities different from those of the larger culture. To test this prediction, we asked blind (n = 23) and sighted (n = 20) adults to recall the modality (Spoken or Written) of words whose definitions they had learned, and to indicate their degree of confidence in …

Association Of Helicobacter Pylori Infection With Pediatric Asthma In Palestine, Alaa Hrizat, Amal A Shahin, Banan M Mafarjeh, Mohammad A Atawneh, Kamel Gharaibeh, Nisreen Rumman, Mutaz Sultan

Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology Faculty Papers

Purpose: Significant debate exists on the association between Helicobacter pylori infection and childhood asthma. We aimed to explore this association in a cohort of children in Palestine while estimating the prevalence of H. pylori in this population. Methods: We conducted a prospective case-control study among children aged 6–15 years in Palestine, including 44 asthma cases diagnosed by pediatric pulmonologists and 99 age-matched healthy controls recruited through cluster sampling from schools. H. pylori status was determined using a stool antigen test. Asthma severity was assessed using the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire. Data on recent antibiotic use, …

The Abcs Of Rapport, Sharon K. Ferrett

Trade & Scholarly Monographs

In a world that often talks more than it listens, The ABCs of Rapport is a practical and heartfelt guide to creating meaningful connections, one conversation at a time. This book offers tools, tips, and strategies to help you really listen, communicate effectively, and bridge the distance between yourself and others. More than a communication manual, it’s an invitation to shift how you perceive people, and to see everyone as part of our shared humanity. Whether you’re talking with a child, partner, friend, neighbor, or coworker, The ABCs of Rapport helps you build understanding and connection, even in hard conversations. …

Dean's Update, January 2025, Neil W. Schluger

SOM Dean's Research Newsletter

No abstract provided.

Dean's Report- Winter-Spring 2025, Marina K. Holz

GSBMS Dean’s Report

No abstract provided.

Proper Conjugation Of Bodies: Chastity, Age, And Care Work In Sri Lankan Migrants’ Families, Michele Ruth Gamburd

Anthropology Faculty Publications and Presentations

Physical and symbolic aspects of bodies limit the migration trajectories of female domestic workers from a Buddhist community in coastal Sri Lanka. Government regulations and family decisions regarding women’s overseas labour draw upon and in turn influence discourses about gender, sexuality, age, health, and class. This ethnographic analysis illustrates that local norms task women with nurturing the brains of babies, preserving the chastity of teenage daughters, caring for frail elders, and preventing their working-class husbands from overindulging in liquor or having sex with other women. Successful social reproduction depends on the proper conjunctions of bodies in the extended family. Corporeal …

Differences In Long Covid Severity By Duration Of Illness, Symptom Evolution, And Vaccination: A Longitudinal Cohort Study From The Inspire Group, Michael Gottlieb, Huihui Yu, Ji Chen, Erica S. Spatz, Nicole L. Gentile, Rachel E. Geyer, Michelle Santangelo, Caitlin Malicki, Kristyn Gatling, Sharon Saydah, Kelli N. O'Laughlin, Kari A. Stephens, Joann G. Elmore, Lauren E. Wisk, Michelle L'Hommedieu, Robert M. Rodriguez, Juan Carlos C. Montoy, Ralph C. Wang, Kristin L. Rising, Efrat Kean, Jonathan W. Dyal, Mandy J. Hill, Arjun K. Venkatesh, Robert A. Weinstein

Department of Emergency Medicine Faculty Papers

Background: Although short-term outcomes of Long COVID have been described, longer-term physical and mental health outcomes of Long COVID are less well-established. This study sought to assess differences in long-term physical and mental health outcomes extending up to three years among those with current, resolved, and no Long COVID, as well as duration of Long COVID and vaccination status. Methods: This was a prospective, multisite, study of participants with SARS-CoV-2 infection from 12/7/2020-8/29/2022, with data collected through 4/2/2024. Surveys included validated tools for physical and mental health. Data were analyzed by Long COVID status (never-had, resolved, current), Long COVID duration …

The Statewide Standard, 2025, Illinois State University

The Statewide Standard

Annual newsletter of the Illinois State University College of Education

From Misinformation To Policy Solutions: Teaching Herd Immunity And Vaccine Hesitancy Through Real-World Case Studies Of Measles Outbreaks, Laurieann Klockow

Biomedical Sciences Faculty Research and Publications

Vaccine hesitancy threatens herd immunity, contributing to the resurgence of measles outbreaks. This lesson engages upper-level biomedical science students in analyzing the complex interplay between vaccination rates, herd immunity and vaccine exemption policies through examination of the 2019 New York measles outbreak that threatened the United States’ measles elimination status. Students critically evaluate anti-vaccine misinformation, analyze epidemiological data and develop evidence-based policy recommendations to increase vaccination rates. The lesson combines team-based learning with authentic assessment through vaccine policy development, moving beyond knowledge acquisition and content to building scientific literacy and evidence-based reasoning skills essential for scientifically literate citizens and future …

Agu's Scientific Legacy, Eileen E. Hofmann, Tissa Illangasekare, Francis A. Macdonald, Michael J. Mcphaden, Anne Meltzer, Imke De Pater, Susan J. Roberts, Anne M. Thompson

OES Faculty Publications

The AGU community is a resource for insights into how past research has influenced today's science and will continue to inform the Earth and Space sciences of the future. To capture the voices and opinions from this community, three interviews were held at the 2024 AGU Meeting and broadcast on AGUTV. The interviews with Richard Alley, Susan Lozier and Rana Fine aligned with the daily themes for the 2024 AGU Meeting. The interviewees shared insights from their experiences about the importance of science and how science has shaped their careers and society.

Rock: Riesz Occupation Kernel Methods For Learning Dynamical Systems, Victor W. Reilly, Chau Nguyen, Kamel Lahouel, Anthony Kolshorn, Nicholas Fisher, Bruno Jedynak

Mathematics and Statistics Faculty Publications and Presentations

We present a representer theorem for a large class of variational problems, generalizing regression, finite element methods, and providing techniques for learning partial and ordinary differential equations (PDEs and ODEs). We apply our formulation to the multivariate occupation kernel method (MOCK) for learning dynamical systems from data. Our generalized method outperforms the MOCK method on most tested datasets, while often requiring considerably fewer parameters. Experiments are presented for learning ODEs and PDEs.

Mock: An Algorithm For Learning Nonparametric Differential Equations Via Multivariate Occupation Kernel Functions, Victoria A. Rielly, Kamel Lahouel, Ethan Lew, Nicholas Fisher, Vicky Geneva Haney, Michael Wells, Bruno M. Jedynak

Mathematics and Statistics Faculty Publications and Presentations

Learning a nonparametric system of ordinary differential equations from trajectories in a -dimensional state space requires learning functions of variables. Explicit formulations often scale quadratically in unless additional knowledge about system properties, such as sparsity and symmetries, is available. In this work, we propose a linear approach, the multivariate occupation kernel method (MOCK), using the implicit formulation provided by vector-valued reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces. The solution for the vector field relies on multivariate occupation kernel functions associated with the trajectories and scales linearly with the dimension of the state space. We validate through experiments on a variety of simulated and …

Mind Over Matter: Do Nootropics Hold The Key To Fighting Alzheimer’S?, Ben Berkowitz

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and impaired daily functioning. Nootropics, a class of cognitive-enhancing compounds, have recently emerged as potential therapeutic agents for mitigating the cognitive impairments associated with AD. This paper reviews the current evidence regarding the efficacy (or lack thereof) of different treatments used in the past for treating Alzheimer’s, including cholinesterase inhibitors and anti-Aβ antibodies. The findings are compared to those using various nootropics, including natural supplements and synthetic compounds, in modulating neurobiological pathways relevant to AD pathology. Mechanisms of action such as neuroprotection, antioxidant activity, acetylcholine modulation, …

Implant Alternatives: The Advancements Of Stem Cells In Regenerative Dentistry, Akiva Goldschmidt

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

This research paper explores the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) within the realm of dentistry, focusing particularly on their ability to repair tissues and regenerate entire teeth. MSCs are significant as they can send differentiation signals to nearby cells and release growth factors such as TGF-β and VEGF, which promote cellular activities necessary for dental repair and regeneration. The paper discusses the traditional methods of dental restoration, such as fillings and implants, and their inherent limitations. It then transitions to exploring innovative strategies that utilize MSCs to overcome these challenges and regenerate tooth structures including enamel, dentin, and periodontal …

Retinal Vision Restoration, Aharon S. Galandauer

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Retinal degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide due to the retina’s inability to regenerate specialized cells after injury or stress. This study examines the potential for retinal regeneration by assessing current research on Müller glial cell differentiation and stem cell-based treatments. An analysis of experimental studies and therapeutic advancements highlights the mechanisms observed in regenerative models such as zebrafish and chicks, in contrast to the reactive gliosis and glial scarring observed in humans. Findings suggest that therapies such as optogenetics and stem cell transplantation have partially restored vision; however, their limitations stem from an inability to fully …

Can Cystic Fibrosis Be Treated With Genetic Therapy?, Steve Silverberg

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

This paper discusses the current and prospective treatment options for the fatal genetic disease cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a rare recessive genetic disorder that is caused by a mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which codes for a protein that is on the surface of a cell. This protein allows for the flow of chloride, bicarbonate, and sodium ions to pass through the cell wall, bringing water with it. When this protein doesn’t work, the lack of ions and water in extracellular fluid becomes too thick, causing a multitude of problems. The most common …

The Bidirectional Gut-Brain Axis: Impact Of Dysbiosis On Depression Through The Hpa Axis, Matan Shiller

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Emerging research suggests that depression is not solely a brain disorder but is deeply influenced by the gut microbiome. The gut-brain axis (GBA) is a bidirectional communication system linking the gastrointestinal system and the brain, modulating mood, behavior, and mental health. Gut microbiota produce metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and tryptophan catabolites, that influence neurotransmission and the stress response via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, disrupts these pathways, contributing to a major depressive disorder (MDD). Evidence from germ-free animal studies and fecal microbiota transplants (FMT) highlights the role of gut microbiota in emotional regulation and …

Restorative Justice And Building Communities Of Radical Belonging In The Law School Classroom, Aparna Polavarapu

Scholarly Works

No abstract provided.

Structural Originalism: A Second Amendment Case Study, Ian C. Bartrum

Scholarly Works

“Originalism” is having a national moment, even if it is not entirely clear what the word means. What should we be originalist about? The leading academic approach asks us to parse the communicative content of text ratified in a very different linguistic culture; then construct a modern legal meaning consistent with our semantic speculations. Too often the result enforces policy judgments made in a radically different moral and technological world. This makes very little sense.

In this paper I recommend a more perspicuous and coherent use of constitutional history, which I call “structural originalism.” Rather than saddle ourselves with the …

Ecarrots: Prison Control And Profits From Correctional Tablets, Justin Iverson

Scholarly Works

In recent years, tablets have gained tremendous popularity behind bars for their ability to expand access to educational and rehabilitative services for people in prison. However, there are downsides to tablet implementation, including high costs at the expense of a captive population and shifting power dynamics resulting in possible volatility. This Article examines the use of correctional tablets in jails and prisons as mechanisms for administrative control and profit-making in an era of beleaguered correctional budgets. It also considers legal and policy implications related to the disproportionately negative impact of the introduction of tablets on people in poverty, increased dependency …

Copyright, Ebooks, And The Future Of Digital Lending, Mary Lafrance

Scholarly Works

Public libraries face a digital lending crisis. Even as library patrons demand greater access to digital materials, eBook publishers have subjected libraries to onerous licensing terms. These include prices substantially higher than those charged to the general public, as well as stringent constraints on license duration and/or loan volume, forcing many libraries to repurchase their eBooks every one or two years. Some publishers are releasing new books only in digital formats, making it even more costly for libraries to maintain robust collections. eBook publishers also compel libraries to use specific digital lending platforms which pose risks to patron privacy. At …

Leaning Pine Arboretum Gazebo, Carson C. Henry

Construction Management

The Leaning Pine Arboretum gazebo provides an aesthetic relaxation space for visitors to the arboretum as well as being a functional structure for faculty as a future event space. This gazebo replaces an existing one, revitalizing the space in conjunction with the arboretum’s planned growth over the coming years. There were many challenges throughout the construction process including permitting issues, design complexities, and coordination with architects and engineers. Persevering through these taught a great deal about project management, the construction industry, and the importance of teamwork. The structure is a total rejuvenation of the prior structure; it is now stronger, …

Constitutional Law: First Amendment Disequilibrium, Christina Koningisor

The Judges' Book

No abstract provided.

Refugee Law: Human Rights, Refugee Law, And Border Crossing, Moria Paz

The Judges' Book

No abstract provided.

Mechanisms And Environmental Factors Shaping The Ecosystem Of Brain Macrophages, Silvia Penati, Simone Brioschi, Zhangying Cai, Claudia Z Han, Marco Colonna

2020-Current year OA Pubs

Brain macrophages encompass two major populations: microglia in the parenchyma and border-associated macrophages (BAMs) in the extra-parenchymal compartments. These cells play crucial roles in maintaining brain homeostasis and immune surveillance. Microglia and BAMs are phenotypically and epigenetically distinct and exhibit highly specialized functions tailored to their environmental niches. Intriguingly, recent studies have shown that both microglia and BAMs originate from the same myeloid progenitor during yolk sac hematopoiesis, but their developmental fates diverge within the brain. Several works have partially unveiled the mechanisms orchestrating the development of microglia and BAMs in both mice and humans; however, many questions remain unanswered. …

Adapting Data Science Competencies By Role And Purpose: Voice Ai, David A Dorr, Andrea Krussel, Rachel Hauck, Christie Jackson, Abhijeet Dalal, Steven Bedrick, Philip R O Payne, Bridge2ai-Voice Consortium;, William Hersh

2020-Current year OA Pubs

Competencies help define the skills and knowledge needed by learners. Often broad, educators integrate competencies to provide a framework for curricula or professional standards. For data science, the rate of change in the field, role variations, and specificity in key applications can be challenging. Our objective was to adapt general data science competencies for different learner roles in an emerging area: the clinical utility of Voice, Language, and Speech-based Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML). Using a persona-inductive approach, we adapted competencies to support learners from varying professional and educational backgrounds and implemented these adaptations in a multi-institutional summer school. Results from …

Single-Cell Multiome Characterizing Intercellular Communication And Intracellular Regulation Of Epithelium And Mesenchymal During Secondary Palate Development In Mice, Usama Hussein, Yulin Dai, Andi Liu, Toshiyuki Itai, Fangfang Yan, Lukas M Simon, Zhongming Zhao

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Cell-cell communication between adjacent tissues is fundamental to orchestrating organ morphogenesis. During secondary palate development, interactions between epithelial and mesenchymal cells regulate epithelial-mesenchymal signaling, thereby controlling cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue patterning. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions remain largely unexplored. In this study, we employed single-cell multiome sequencing to simultaneously profile chromatin accessibility and gene expression in 35,150 individual cells isolated from the developing mouse secondary palate at embryonic days E12.5, E13.5, E14.0, and E14.5. Our analysis revealed that intercellular signaling plays a pivotal role in directing secondary palate morphogenesis, with WNT, BMP, and PDGF pathways emerging …