Digital Commons Network^™

Scalable Container Caching Optimization With Action Masking For Serverless Edge Computing, Manikanta Sanjay Veera

Master's Projects

Serverless edge computing is an emerging technology that realizes the low latency and resource-efficient function calls for responsive computing. In cloud-based serverless computing, it is a common practice to cache sufficiently many function containers for future reuse to reduce the overhead of container initiation. In contrast, the capacity limitation of edge nodes poses a complex problem to the caching strategy in serverless edge computing of selecting an appropriate set of container caches based on the request distribution. Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) can play a crucial role in optimizing the caching decisions under dynamic request arrivals. In this paper, we propose …

Emotion Detection Using Ensemble Learning, Priya Harika Yerapothu

Master's Projects

Emotion detection is gaining exponential necessity in today’s technological age. This research seeks to delve into ways conversational AI could be enhanced by integrating emotional intelligence using an ensemble learning approach. Traditional machine learning along with advanced neural network architectures are implemented to improve the understanding and intricacies of emotion detection from textual data. The dataset we use is GoEmotions dataset, annotated with 27 emotional labels, to conduct a detailed analysis of emotion recognition. Various machine learning models, such as HistGradientBoosting, LightGBM, CatBoost, and MLP, will be evaluated side by side with advanced models of Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM) …

Skin Cancer Detection Using Reinforcement Learning, Vikas Chercadu

Master's Projects

Advances in medical diagnostics have increasingly harnessed the power of artificial

intelligence, offering substantial improvements in early and accurate disease identifi- cation. This paper elaborates on a novel integration of Multi-Agent Reinforcement

Learning (MARL) with Deep Learning for the early detection of skin cancer, one of the most prevalent and lethal forms of cancer when left unchecked. Our project capitalizes on the sophisticated VGG16 Network for the extraction of detailed features from the widely-utilized HAM10000 dermatoscopic dataset, enhancing these features with additional color, texture, and shape analysis. Utilizing a custom-designed MARL environment, we facilitate a collaboration among multiple intelligent agents, …

Mitigating Learning Bias In Healthcare Datasets, Samyak Jagdish Kumbhalwar

Master's Projects

CVDs have been a major cause of deaths worldwide with WHO reporting 17.9 million deaths annually. Although there are advancements in the treatment of these diseases, most of the fatalities are a result of untimely diagnosis. Active research is going on to collect data points and risk factors related to these diseases, which can enable early diagnosis. Of the datasets available, many researchers have employed different ML models to predict/detect the prevalence of heart diseases. Many employed Tree based, regression models [3, 6]. Few also tried ensemble approaches [1, 2, 4]. These healthcare datasets are generally found to be imbalanced. …

Response To Intervention: The Effect Of Sensory Processing Tier 1 And Tier 2 Occupational Therapy Intervention, Workshops & Consultation On Kindergarten Students, Kieran Bolger, Cindy Zhang, Julia Dariychuk, Janine Yu, Zuriel Chester

Master's Projects

Sensory modulation is critical for self-regulation in learning environments where children may experience unexpected or atypical sensory stimuli leading to disruptive behaviors often misunderstood or misinterpreted by teachers (Mac Donald & Baist, 2021; Smith & Douglass, 2022). Teachers often lack understanding of sensory processing and evidence-based strategies to address the behavioral challenges related to sensory processing (Cahill et al., 2014; Gee & Nwora, 2011; Mac Donald & Baist, 2021). Occupational therapists practitioners (OTPs) are beneficial team members that are skilled in addressing sensory processing (Cahill, 2010) and can partner with teachers to increase their understanding and utilization of sensory processing …

Hindi Image Captioning Using Indictrans2 And Encoder-Decoder Architecture, Anahita Vayalombrone Dinesh

Master's Projects

One of the most prominent tasks that lie on the conjunction of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and computer vision, is image captioning. Image captioning is the generative task of achieving textual descriptions from images. Its application finds use in many real-world scenarios like aiding the visually impaired, editing applications, recommendation systems, and medical imaging. This research focus lies in Hindi image captioning, the official language of India, as it has not been explored as far as its need. Several challenges such as the lack of substantial Hindi text data for training models, the need for human annotators to verify the …

A Rule-Based Hybrid Translation Model For Context-Aware Speech To Indian Sign Language Tasks, Dania Jaison

Master's Projects

In India, one of the most significant tools to communicate with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) communities is Indian Sign Language(ISL). The issue of a scarcity of computational resources for ISL is even more pronounced when it comes to the translation of written or spoken English into ISL. This paper proposes a rule-based model for translation where the spoken english sentences are translated into ISL by focusing on the specific syntactic and grammatical differences between these two languages. ISL uses a simplified syntax unlike the nuanced sentence structures in English — we omit most of the auxiliary verbs …

Load Balancing For Cloud-Based Applications, Nitish Ranjan

Master's Projects

Effective load balancing is critical in ensuring optimal resource utilization, reducing latency, and improving the overall performance of distributed systems. This report commences with a comprehensive literature review on existing load-balancing algorithms, examining their methodologies, strengths, and limitations within various computing environments, including cloud computing, data centers, and network traffic management. Despite significant advancements in this field, the dynamic nature of distributed systems, coupled with the ever-increasing demand for efficient data processing, poses ongoing challenges. In response, this study proposes a novel load-balancing algorithm to address these contemporary challenges. The approach leverages dynamic and hybrid load balancing, distinguishing it from …

Artifacts In Low-Pass Whole Genome Sequencing, Nguyen Mai Anh Do

Master's Projects

Low-pass whole genome sequencing (LP-WGS) provides a cost-effective way to achieve broad genomic coverage, but it comes with the challenge of sequencing artifacts that can complicate accurate variant detection. To address this, we developed a bioinformatics pipeline using Nextflow. Starting with raw sequencing data, the pipeline performed variant calling using VarDict, with Genome in a Bottle (GIAB) high-confidence variants serving as the benchmark for variant validation. We explored machine learning approaches, testing classifiers such as AdaBoost, ExtraTrees, and RandomForest, to evaluate variant classification. Twenty-two features generated by VarDict were fed into Machine Learning pipeline, with AdaBoost standing out for its …

Exploring The Use And Misuse Of Large Language Models (Llms), Hezekiah Paul D. Valdez

Master's Projects

Large Language Models (LLMs) have quickly gone from simple rule-based systems to complex knowledge bases capable of tackling many different tasks across a variety of fields. What began as an exercise in human-computer interaction has become the basis for artificial intelligence in a variety of mediums. When attached to larger systems, LLMs become generative assistants that can perform highly on human proficiency assessments and other benchmark skill assessments. This increase in proficiency has led these systems to be deployed in fields such as cybersecurity, business, and programming to help improve productivity and efficiency. However, such a wide availability has allowed …

Enhanced Inter-Satellite Routing With Multi-Path Selection And Congestion Modeling, Jaesung Yoo

Master's Projects

Satellite networks play a crucial role in global connectivity today and making efficient routing algorithms is crucial for optimal performance. While existing routing algorithms have made significant progress using machine learning techniques, they often overlook network congestion and multiple path availability. This report introduces an enhanced routing framework that builds upon LSTM-based predictive routing using dynamic congestion modeling and multi-path selection. Our approach introduces a busy state metric that tracks satellite memory utilization, allowing for adaptive path selection based on both distance and current network load. Through simulations using a constellation of 20 satellites, our enhanced algorithm demonstrates significant improvements …

Teaching Children Programming Concepts Through Video Games, Kayla Musleh

Master's Projects

Children have a tendency to lose focus when they are presented with something that does not entertain them or tailor to their personal interests; such as studying [1], [3], [10]. The research performed for this project focuses on studying how much more children can comprehend and focus on learning educational material if they are learning through playing a video game rather than being taught information directly in a typical classroom manner. For this study I created a computer game designed to introduce educational subjects such as mathematics and programming concepts to the child playing the game. By completing the tasks …

Impact Of Female And Male University Instructors Revealing Their High-Functioning Autism To Their Students, Gundars Kaupins, Tim Chenoweth

Management Faculty Publications and Presentations

High-functioning autism, informally known as Asperger’s, involves diminished social skills considered important for university instruction. In an experiment, 370 freshmen and sophomores mostly Caucasian students from a western U. S. university responded to a survey to investigate whether male or female instructors might equally benefit from higher initial student impressions of their teaching ability. Role Congruity Theory suggests that individuals will be supported when their characteristics align with their group’s social roles. The theory implies that women should follow female stereotypes involving more empathy and social skills and less systemization. Examples of social skills include smooth back-and-forth conversations, appropriate eye …

Rehabilitation Therapy Versus Drug-Only Therapy In Patients With Multiple Sclerosis, Florin Mihai Marcu, Doriana Ciobanu, Ioan Cosmin Boca, Elena Sirbu, Paul Alexandru Deme, Nicolae Catalin Hreniuc, Dorina Ianc

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

The treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) does not cure the disease, but it is intended to reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of symptoms. Rehabilitation therapy (RT), including an individualized physical therapy program (PTP) and adapted occupational therapy (OT), has benefits in terms of aerobic capacity, muscle strength, coordination, and ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL). The primary objective of this study was to examine the efficacy of RT comprising PTP, OT, and drug treatment (DT) versus DT alone in patients with MS. Another objective was to highlight the importance of continuing the PT and OT at home, …

The Effect Of Video-Assisted Training On Upper Extremity Problems And Functions After Rotator Cuff Repair: A Randomized Controlled Trial, Canan Kanat, Gülay Altun Uğraş, Recep Ünal, Servet Can Dönmez, Bahar Taşdelen, Fehmi Volkan Öztuna

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, and is frequently exposed to injuries. The applied surgical treatments, protection of the shoulder after surgery, care in the use of the shoulder in activities of daily living (ADLs) and gradual exercise programs are all vital to the recovery process. The present study investigates the effect of video-assisted training (VAT) on upper extremity complications and functions after rotator cuff repair (RCR).Materials and method: Included in this prospective, parallel two-armed, randomized controlled study were an experimental group (n: 24) that received VAT detailing early postoperative care for RCR and instructions on …

The Quad (The 2024 Alumni Magazine), Southern Methodist University, Dedman School Of Law

The Quad (Law Alumni Magazine), 1988-present

• Judge Irma Carrillo Ramirez United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
• Trailblazer Speaker Series
• Alumna Spotlight: Brittany K. Barnett
• New Scholarship Challenge Initiative Timed with SMU • Dedman Law Upcoming Centennial Anniversary
• Office of Diversity and Inclusion Building Community with a Spirit of Compassion, Connection, and Excellence
• Jurist in Residence: Judge Kent Jordan SMU Dedman School of Law Inaugural Program
• Focus on our Centers Deason Criminal Justice Reform Center, Tsai Center for Law, Science and Innovation, Robert B. Rowling Center for Business Law & Leadership
• Faculty Spotlights Professors Nathan Cortez …

Exploring The Use Of Artificial Intelligence In Science Education In Teacher Training Institutions, Tindyebwa Alex David

Master of Education

This dissertation investigates the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into science education at teacher training institutions, aiming to identify effective strategies for its implementation. The research focuses on the central question: How can AI be effectively integrated into science teacher training to enhance future science education practices?

Employing a Design-Based Implementation Research (DBIR) framework, the study fosters collaborative exploration and iterative development alongside science tutors, teachers, and administrators. This approach bridges the gap between academic research and practical classroom application, ensuring that any proposed AI integration strategies are both theoretically sound and readily adaptable to real-world educational settings.

The research's …

A Systematic Review Of Resilient Early Childhood Education Strategies In Uganda: Insights From The Covid-19 Pandemic., Apio Grace

Master of Education

The COVID-19 lockdown had massive disruptions to early childhood education worldwide. This highlighted the need for resilient strategies to support children's learning during crises. This systematic review aimed to analyze and synthesize existing literature from different countries on resilient ECE strategies implemented during the pandemic to ensure the continuity and quality of education for children. The methodology employed involved a comprehensive search of academic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Hinar, EBSCOhost, and grey literature. The inclusion and exclusion criteria encompass studies published between January 2020 and October 2023 and reports focusing on resilient ECE strategies implemented during the …

Investigating The Effect Of Streaming Based On Gender On Mathematics Learning In Mixed Secondary School: A Case Study Of A Selected Secondary School In Sheema District, Uganda, Naome Katumwebaze

Master of Education

Gender-based streaming, the practice of separating students into single-sex classes according to gender, is commonly implemented in some mixed secondary schools in Uganda. However, limited research exists on its impact on students' mathematics learning. This research study investigated the effect of gender-based streaming on mathematics learning in secondary schools in Uganda. The research is grounded in the context of Uganda's education system, which has a historical background of segregating education based on gender. It explores the expansion of formal education and the emergence of streaming as a practice in Ugandan secondary schools. The study recognizes the persistent gender gap in …

Becoming Mindful Teachers: A Pilot Study, Dusty Columbia Embury, Laura S. Clarke, Michael Embury, Kim Puckett

Teacher Education Faculty Publications

In this pilot action research study, one university professor, two public schooladministrators, and one classroom teacher worked together to teach mindfulness to teachers andpre-service teachers (university students studying to become teachers). The researchers used anaction and reflection process to design and deploy an online, asynchronous mindfulness courseover six weeks to meet the needs of participants. This paper discusses the pilot's progress,challenges, results, and lessons learned.

Improving School Climate: The Impact Of A Perma-Based Intervention On Educators' Well-Being And Emotional Intelligence, Jennifer Andrews Kenney

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Research has demonstrated that the condition of a school’s climate substantially influences student outcomes. This study investigated the factors influencing a sub-optimal school climate in a rural school. Results indicated that educators’ unmet social and emotional needs and an absence of well-being support influenced the quality of the school climate. To address this problem, this study examined the impact of an eight-week PERMA-based multicomponent positive psychology intervention (MPPI) on rural educators’ well-being, emotional intelligence (EI), and professional practice. The participants consisted of 13 rural educators. Using a convergent mixed methods research design, the researcher merged quantitative data comprising pre-test and …

2024 Annual Report, Tennessee. Department Of Treasury

Treasurer's Reports

No abstract provided.

“Share The Fear”: Communication Concerns Of Parents With Cancer With Dependents And Coparents: A Qualitative Needs Assessment Study, Cinzia Caparso, Zoe Bowen, Sung Won Choi

Nursing Faculty Research Publications

Background: The estimated 1.6 million adults in the United States with cancer who also have dependents face unique challenges given the profound impact of cancer on their families, such as increased psychological distress, decreased quality of life, and altered family functioning. Unfortunately, little is known about the mutual cancer-related communication concerns for the perspectives of the parents with cancer or the coparents. Coparents care for the patient and dependents until they reach adulthood (e.g., unmarried, divorced, stepparent, and/or same-sex partnerships).

Objective: To understand the mutual cancer-related communication concerns from the perspectives of parents with cancer and the coparents and intervention …

Clark Magazine, Winter 2024, Clark University

Clark Magazine

The Winter 2024 edition of Clark Magazine. Clark Magazine is a twice-yearly publication primarily geared towards Clark University Alumni.

The cover story is 'The Mushroom Moment: In a bust of popularity, the once-humble fungus has captured the kitchen and conquered our culture. Clark mycologist David Hibbett believes he knows why'.

The Monadnock Volume 63, 2024, Clark University Geographical Society

The Monadnock (Clark Geographical Society)

Volume 63 of The Monadnock. The Monadnock was the alumni magazine of the Clark University Geographical Society (1927-1985) (2014-present).

Gettysburg College Journal Of The Civil War Era 2024

The Gettysburg College Journal of the Civil War Era

No abstract provided.

The Unseen War: Struggles Of Andersonville Survivors, Rj Lehal

The Gettysburg College Journal of the Civil War Era

The American Civil War lasted from 1861-1865, in that period many lives were lost and many more lives were forever transformed. Families had lost loved ones and those who returned home were not themselves anymore. This paper will examine the post-war mental health of Andersonville survivors. Focus will also be placed on the difficulties of survivors trying to return to their post-war lives; along with the difficulties survivors faced in receiving a pension. And how Andersonville in recent American memory has been transformed into a place of remembrance, for all American POWs in all American wars. Different sources will be …

Ever Use Of Telehealth In Nebraska By March 2021: Cross-Sectional Analysis, Lisa C. Smith, George Johnson, Snehal Jadhav, Josiane Kabayundo, Muskan Ahuja, Hongmei Wang, Kendra L. Ratnapradipa

Journal Articles: Epidemiology

BACKGROUND: Nationally, COVID-19 spurred the uptake of telehealth to facilitate patients' access to medical care, especially among individuals living in geographically isolated areas. Despite the potential benefits of telehealth to address health care access barriers and enhance health outcomes, there are still disparities in the accessibility and utilization of telehealth services. Hence, identifying facilitators and barriers to telehealth should be prioritized to ensure that disparities are mitigated rather than exacerbated.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to identify factors associated with ever use of telehealth in Nebraska, a primarily rural state with a significant portion of its population living in nonmetropolitan areas. …

Aligning Eye Care Provider Beliefs With Behaviors: Exploring And Improving Ocular Surface Disease Decision-Making In A Cataract Surgery Clinic, Amy Hellem

Communication (PhD) Dissertations

Millions of cataract surgeries are performed every year in the United States, yet both surgeon reports and patient reports indicate that practices are not utilizing the diagnostic tests and treatments that are advocated in the medical literature to identify and manage ocular surface disease prior to surgery. As a result, patients risk suffering several significant consequences with regard to their vision, comfort and safety. Personal observations from my 25 years of experience working with ophthalmologists and optometrists led to curiosity regarding the root cause of undertreatment of ocular surface disease. Specifically, I had the impression that eye care providers held …

Politicians The Founders Warned You About, Neil Fulton

UC Law Constitutional Quarterly

Many articles have explored the Founders’ intentions regarding the constitutional text. Much less attention has focused on the Founders’ ideas regarding the traits needed of the leaders in a constitutional republic. The Constitution focuses on governing structures, many of which relate to the electoral process. The Constitution does not spell out the ideal traits of the leaders elected pursuant to those processes. Nonetheless, the Founders possessed clear views about the virtues and qualifications that ideal political leaders required. Indeed, the Founders issued warnings about certain archetypal political figures who, because of their flagrant disregard of the ideal virtues and qualifications, …