Digital Commons Network^™

Wellman, Rowan County Genealogical Society.

Rowan County Genealogy Collection

Genealogy of the Wellman family in Rowan County, Kentucky.

Webb, Rowan County Genealogical Society.

Rowan County Genealogy Collection

Genealogy of the Webb family in Rowan County, Kentucky.

Part 4: Public Libraries: Enriching Lives In Hampton Roads, Dragas Center For Economic Analysis And Policy, Old Dominion University

State of the Region Reports: Hampton Roads

Hampton Roads is home to 63 public libraries across 13 library systems. These public libraries do much, much more than simply lending books. Access is free, and everyone is welcome. This chapter provides an overview of Hampton Roads’ public libraries—how they function and how they are funded, and the diversity of services and resources they offer to our residents. We focus on the innovative ways that public libraries have evolved to meet their communities’ changing needs.

The Theories Of Corporate Pershonhood And Their Three False Choices: Developing A Framework For Corporate Rights, Katharine Jackson

Faculty Articles and Other Publications

Scholars often use the theories of corporate personhood—aggregation theory, concession theory, and real entity theory—to justify corporate rights through analogy. That is, theories of corporate personhood attempt to explain what rights corporations ought to have based on what kind of person the corporation is like. If corporations are like individual human beings, then corporations should enjoy all the same rights that human beings do. If corporations are like states, then corporations should owe the same obligations that a state owes its citizens. Of course, many scholars have addressed the weaknesses of this kind of analogical reasoning. As Dewey argued long …

Dignity Deferred: Supriyo V. Union Of India And Lgbtq Rights, Ryan Thoreson

Faculty Articles and Other Publications

In Supriyo v. Union of India, a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court declined to find that same-sex couples have a right to marry under India’s Constitution. The various opinions in the case repeatedly recognised and affirmed the dignity of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people, but ultimately found that exclusion from civil marriage did not run afoul of constitutional guarantees. In this Essay, I examine the limited understanding of dignity employed by the bench in Supriyo, juxtaposing this with both domestic and comparative LGBTQ rights decisions that embraced a more substantive understanding of dignity. I argue that …

The Casnr L.I.N.K.S. Newsletter: Learning Innovation Network For K-12 Schools, Volume 3, Edition 1, January 2024, Bailey Feit, Tammy Mittelstet

CASNR L.I.N.K.S. Newsletter

The purpose of this L.I.N.K.S. newsletter is to provide a monthly update of opportunities and resources for K-12 schools to connect with the University of Nebraska's CASNR Food, Energy, Water, and Societal Systems (FEWS²) programs and partners.

Included in this edition:

K-12 curriculum and resources

2024 World Food prize Nebraska Youth Institute

Upcoming events on UNL's East Campus 2023-2024

Data Driven 2024: Statistics Field Day

CASNR Ag Tech Day, April 23, 2024

UNL-CASNR six interest areas

Food system futurists spotlight

Career exploration

Summer Camp 2024

Career pathways at Seed Your Future

Student opportunities including: Women in Ag Conference, BioNebraska STEM …

Emotional State Of Small Animal Veterinarians And Euthanasia: A Global Approach, Cyriac Versini

Theses & ETDs

Euthanasia is a very common practice in veterinary medicine, encountered by small animals veterinarians in their everyday practice as the number of companion animals have exponentially increased these last decades reflecting the societal changes from a rural multigenerational family unit to a urban nuclear model, including companion animals, considered henceforth as family members. Although common, euthanasia does not come without consequences on the emotional state of the veterinarians practitioners worldwide. To fully apprehend its effects, euthanasia has to be understood from a global approach, including ethics, legality and psychology. Euthanasia appears as an ethical challenge for veterinarians, not only because …

Analyzing The Impact Of Environmental Conditions, Cellular Kinetics, & Cell-Intrinsic Control Variables On The Wound-Healing Reaction Rate Of Selected Sponges (Porifera), William Wolfe

Theses & ETDs

All sponges (Porifera) have morphological properties, behavioral tendencies, and cell-intrinsic variables that react differently to environmental conditions, especially temperature, depending on the species. A disruption in the conditions of a host environment will cause the cellular properties of sponges to react in a way unique to its species due to the impact of environmental stress. The core morphological characteristics of sponges are the external structural mold, which tends to be cylindrical, asymmetrical, or radially symmetrical; a loose cellular level of organization; pore structure; an inhalant area; and optimization for overall surface area. Physiologically, every sponge species has a specific temperature …

A Comparison Of Domesticated Rat Behavior Between Differing Environment Types, Payton Mitchell

Theses & ETDs

Enriching environments consist of elements that provoke more naturalistic behaviors to appear within a focal species through incorporating novelty typically not provided within laboratory environments. This study set out to compare the behaviors displayed by domesticated rats when provided with two distinct enriching environments. It was hypothesized that there would be differences in the behaviors displayed between the different cages. To test this hypothesis the behaviors of two senior female rats were observed during their time in a standard pet rat cage and a bioactive/naturalistic cage over the course of three periods (control, experimental, and reintroduction), with the standard pet …

Effects Of Exercise On Telomere Biology And Its Implications For Cellular Aging, Liam Parker Carrillo-Rodriguez

Theses & ETDs

Telomeres are regions of repetitive DNA-protein sequences found at chromosomal ends. They play a crucial role in preserving the information in our genome by protecting the ends of chromosomes from fraying or tangling. Each time a cell divides, a small portion of telomeric DNA is lost and telomeres become slightly shorter until the cell can no longer divide properly, and the cell undergoes replicative senescence or apoptotic cell death. Telomere length is associated with a number of age-related diseases, lifespan, and cancer. Different factors that have an effect on telomere length, like oxidative stress and telomerase activity, are reviewed in …

Evaluating Indicators Of Success And Sustainability In Community Forests, Brittney Hall

Theses & ETDs

Community forests are forests managed by local communities. They can be beneficial in socioeconomic contexts and can have positive impacts in supporting local biodiversity of plants and animals. Community forests are considered generally effective at countering deforestation and serve as valuable systems for local communities and as a response to climate change. However, the effectiveness of community forestry is dependent on a variety of socio-ecological factors, thus presenting a need for the success and efficacy of community forests to be evaluated and assessed in a rigorous and objective manner. The purpose of this thesis is to identify socio-ecological variables that …

Enrichment Responses Of Captive Mammalian Carnivores, Megan Nigro

Theses & ETDs

This study examines the effects of simple enrichment on the behaviors of animals at the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Wildlife Park. Animals included are all non-releasable for various reasons and consist of a Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus), two red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), two gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), two Florida panthers (Puma concolor coryi), and a bobcat (Felidae rufus Floridanus). The behaviors of these animals were observed with and without a box. Following a randomized schedule, instantaneous sampling occurred every minute for one hour in the morning and one hour in the a��ernoon over eight days in February 2024. Inac��ve, …

Dumpling Manatee Simulation: Raising Awareness On Nutrient Pollution-Related Manatee Mortality Through Virtual Reality, Alex Wills

Theses & ETDs

The Florida manatee faces most threats from humans, including starvation that results from human-caused nutrient pollution. To reduce this threat and lower nutrient pollution, a Virtual Reality (VR) educational game called “Dumpling Manatee Simulation” was developed to raise awareness on this issue and what everyday actions players can take to contribute to making a difference. In this simulation, the player starts by becoming a manatee underwater and living a day in the life of a manatee. Then the player learns about nutrient pollution and eutrophication at manatee school before experiencing firsthand the increased difficulty the issue poses to manatees. The …

Exploring The Impact Of Shark Ecotourism On Shark Behavior And Public Perception, Alexia Craig

Theses & ETDs

Shark ecotourism is a popular tourist attraction that is increasing worldwide. Shark ecotourism is a form of tourism that focuses on observing and interacting with sharks in their natural habitats while promoting conservation, education, and sustainable practices. The objective of this study is to examine the effects of shark ecotourism on three specific shark species: whale sharks (Rhincodon typups), grey nurse shark (Carcharias taurus), and white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias). This analysis will consider both the potential advantages and disadvantages that stem from behavioral changes linked to ecotourism activities. Moreover, the study aims to evaluate the constructive outcomes of shark ecotourism …

The Goldies That Get It, Get It: Exploring The Ability Of Goldfish To Differentiate Between Variability In Reward Reduction, Logan Bell

Theses & ETDs

The instrumental learning process, explored through studies on animals like rats and goldfish, investigates how behavior is influenced by consequences. While Thorndike and Skinner laid the groundwork, research has shown differences in responses to changes in reward magnitude between species. Rats have demonstrated the depression effect, a decline in the rate of performance due to a reduction in the size of reward, however, goldfish studies have faced challenges in replicating findings on this effect. The current study aims to investigate whether goldfish exhibit the depression effect in variable magnitude downshifts. The study involved six common freshwater goldfish (Carassius auratus) randomly …

Birthmarks: Exploring Cultural Connections In Adult Asian American Adoptees, Celeste Kadzis

Theses & ETDs

The purpose of this thesis is to explore how transracial Asian American adoptees relate to their cultural heritage. To understand this I ask: 1) What are the different perspectives that adoptees choose to culturally reconnect to their cultural heritage? 2) What are the reasons why they might choose to or not choose to connect to their heritage? 3) How do adoptees wrestle with and reflect on their upbringing, transition into adulthood, and respond to current events? 4) How can public awareness of cultural diversity within the Asian American adoptee experience be increased? To answer these questions, I conducted ethnographic research …

Crocodiles And Correspondence: Exploring Form In Qiu Miaojin's Literary Works, Carleigh Shourds

Theses & ETDs

The thesis explores the unique narrative structures in Qiu Miaojin's literary works, focusing on Notes of a Crocodile and Last Words from Montmartre. It delves into the epistolary form used in Last Words from Montmartre, illustrating how this method effectively communicates the narrator’s deepest self-reflections and societal critiques. Additionally, the thesis analyzes Notes of a Crocodile, highlighting the use of the notebook format that allows the narrator to confront and navigate personal and societal challenges. The thesis argues that Qiu’s narrative techniques are instrumental in enhancing the thematic depth of her works, which address issues of identity, alienation, and societal …

Prima Donna: Understanding Women In Opera And The Issues Of Representation And Power, Mia Ludden

Theses & ETDs

Often characterized by dramatic singing and intense costumes, opera expands beyond popular culture's misrepresentation. With its history tracing back to early theater and developing as time progressed, opera has a complicated past with women. This thesis attempts to explore women’s roles in opera and issues of representation and power. This research is accompanied by my ethnographic research at the Sarasota Opera. I have spent considerable time observing and interviewing people at the opera in the context of this thesis. The ethnography also fills the gaps where academic research is limited. I examine history’s commentary on women through opera, the representation …

Early Environmental Progressive Pedagogical Practices, Alexandra Gates

Theses & ETDs

Through a culmination of personal experience, it became clear that there was a great need for improved environmental education as global climate change and associated environmental degradation continue to rapidly worsen. In this, for education to be practical and accessible it needed to be geared towards public education, thus giving as many students the tools for a sustainable future. This thesis aims to work through education to foster environmental consciousness from an elementary age level, continuing beyond to create environmentally and socially responsible adults. In order to accomplish that goal this thesis begins with a literature review section to gain …

Change: Finding Balance, Gleimi De Jesus

Theses & ETDs

The dynamic we have with each other and our surroundings interests me. Balance is rooted in our relationships between people and our environment. My work acts as a tool to generate change in artificial settings and situations that I create, by focusing on the impact of people within them. Artificial settings are highlighted by the use of store-bought materials that are manipulated to mimic nature. I use interactive sculpture, wearable objects, and performance scores to result in a sense of balance through constant, dynamic interaction. I explore the idea of balance in my immersive kinetic sculptures through symmetrical compositions, which …

Marine Protected Areas: A Comparison Of The National Marine Sanctuaries Act And The Antiquities Act Through An Interdisciplinary Lens, Meilah Wimbush

Theses & ETDs

Marine ecosystems are under threat by anthropogenic stressors such as pollution, increased endangerment of biodiversity, and exploitation of natural resources. Through the creation of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act (1972) and the Antiquities Act (1906), numerous marine protected areas (MPAs) have been established for long-term protection of these crucial habitats. This thesis examines both forms of legislation through the use of two case studies alongside the approach of comparing the cases through a conservation versus preservation framework. The case studies helped determine different patterns and trends that resulted from each respective legislation which was then used to defend which environmental …

The King Penguin: Growth In Writing, Isaac Tellechea

Theses & ETDs

This thesis is composed of two sections: a collection of original short stories and poetry titled The King Penguin and a subsequent reflection on the creation of these works. The project as a whole serves as a space for an aspiring writer to execute an original literary idea and learn from the experience. The King Penguin attempts to de-automate the reading process by deviating from the traditional left-to-right structure of text, using multimedia components as a way to encourage the reader to engage with the works actively. The reflection focuses primarily on the intentions behind certain decisions made throughout the …

Waterproofing: A Translation And Analysis Of The Works Of Mikhail Zoshchenko, Brendan Mcmahon

Theses & ETDs

In this work I give a cursory examination as to the metaphysical and existential strains underlying Zoshchenko's works. I aim to look into the idea of newly created modes of being and the necessities of being in a newly formed context by examining the unique style and content of Zoshchenko's work. Following this are a selection of nine translated short works by Mikhail Zoshchenko

Impact Of Human Population On Zoonotic Disease Transmission: A 22-Year Review (2000-2022) Of Rabies, Lyme Disease, And Hansen’S Disease In Florida, Margaret Kahl

Theses & ETDs

The Earth thrives under One-Health, a balance between humans, other animals, and environmental health. Zoonotic diseases can impact this equilibrium. In this retrospective review, I explore the impact of human population growth on zoonotic disease transmission, focusing on rabies, Lyme disease, and Hansen’s disease incidences in Florida from 2000-2022. While existing literature acknowledges various drivers that influence zoonotic disease transmission rates, limited attention has been directed toward the specific correlation with human population growth. Correlation and regression analyses were applied utilizing surveillance data from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Florida Department of Health, alongside demographic data …

Exploring The Use Of Magnets As A Form Of Shark Deterrent In Recreational Fisheries, Michael Pertler

Theses & ETDs

Recreational and commercial fisheries are responsible for a large quantity of elasmobranch (sharks, skates, and rays) deaths annually. A significant portion of this mortality is the result of bycatch, the unintentional capture of unwanted species while targeting a different species. Specifically, in hook and line fisheries, sharks are often caught as bycatch when they are subjected to baited lines or lines that have already caught a fish (e.g. a sport fish that is actively fighting on the line). As apex predators, these hunters are driven by food reward and cannot discern the difference between a sport fish caught on a …

Network Effects And Economic Growth The Role Of Arts Clustering In Sarasota, Darwin Tepe

Theses & ETDs

An analysis of Sarasota's arts organizations reveals that Arts clustering is a critical factor in its urban economic and social advancement, offering a blueprint for economic development in similarly specialized regions. Sarasota is identified as demonstrating the specialist view of urban development, where its clustered arts organizations reap and produce network effects, enhancing both the city's cultural draw on tourists and its economic welfare. Additionally, previously published literature which aims to quantify Sarasota's arts exports is expanded upon. Sarasota's Arts cluster generates additional economic activity beyond what has been previously quantified, indicating the arts as a higher yielding asset than …

Making Sense Of The Thrill Of Theme Parks: Immersion, Simulation, And Sensory Stimulation, Audrey Dixon

Theses & ETDs

While immersive experiences are not new, they have been rapidly gaining popularity in entertainment as of recent; it seems that more and more venues are turning their attention to this form of entertainment. The rise of escape rooms and even 3D movies are evidence of this desire to be immersed in the story, as opposed to just viewing it. From my research, I have noticed that theme parks such as Disney World and Universal Studios have also been intensifying the immersion of their parks. In my research, I relied heavily on the work of Josephine Machon, a leading scholar in …

The Legend Of Anne Bonny: Making A Musical From Inception To Production, Emy Mcguire

Theses & ETDs

This thesis includes an academic overview of the process to research, write, and produce an original musical. The Legend of Anne Bonny was created through historical research of the Golden Age of Piracy and contemporary studies of modern-day musicals. The art, a 100-page script with book and lyrics, is comprised of two acts, fifteen scenes, and seventeen songs.

How Has Sociality Shaped The Cetacean Brain? A White Matter Tractography Analysis, Isabelle Origlio

Theses & ETDs

Dolphins and whales have long fascinated the public and scientists alike. Although there is interest in unraveling the mystery of dolphin and whales’ large brains and complex behaviors, cetacean brains have been studied relatively little. Different species of cetaceans demonstrate wide ranging patterns of social organization, which provide an opportunity to investigate the neural correlates of social behaviors. This study examined the amygdala of four dolphin and whale species to investigate the link between connectivity in this brain region and social behaviors. Connectivity of the amygdala was found to vary with social complexity of the species. Pilot whales are the …

Cracked Reality: The Theater Of Chaos And Accessibility In Academia: Building A More Inclusive And Less Intimidating Environment, Remy Katz

Theses & ETDs

Absurdist humor and horror is the only way to survive in the nonsensical world. Situational comedy, irony, and the macabre; this is the essence of the world of spontaneity. My work is fueled by the need to provoke unsettling emotions, leaving audiences to sit and digest feelings of discomfort and joy in the catharsis of humor. I mean, what’s more funny than watching someone have a mental breakdown? Like, come on, you’re not special, all of us are freaks. SO, I’m a bit of a freak. I like building on ideas as I produce art, feeding my emotions into all …