Digital Commons Network^™

Grandmaster Chessbot, Isabelle Hudgins, De'marco Anderson, Wilson Burgos, Adam Guziczek, Ali Hussain, Gabriella Marrero, Isabela Perdomo, Jiajun Wu

Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Student Publications

This project aims to solve the problem of unsafe and unpredictable robotic interactions with humans by integrating computer vision, custom GUI, and a robotic arm to create confidence in seamless interactions between man and machine.

Navigating Ethical Dimensions In The Metaverse: Challenges, Frameworks, And Solutions, Mousa Al-Kfairy, Saed Alrabaee, Omar Alfandi, Amr Taha Mohamed, Souheil Khaddaj

All Works

The Metaverse is rapidly evolving into a transformative digital ecosystem, bringing with it unprecedented opportunities and a complex array of ethical challenges. This narrative review, based on an in-depth analysis of 105 full publications, explores the key ethical themes associated with the Metaverse, including privacy and data security, identity and behavior, digital inclusivity, mental and physical health, ethical AI, content moderation, intellectual property, governance, environmental sustainability, harassment, cultural representation, and economic implications. Proposed solutions for these challenges encompass privacy-by-design frameworks, robust identity verification systems, equitable access initiatives, explainable AI, and blockchain-based intellectual property protections. Additionally, the review examines governance and …

Spectrum Of Congenital Anomalies Detected Through Anatomy Ultrasound At A Referral Hospital In Ghana, Alim Swarray-Deen, Morgan Yapundich, Sarah Boudova, Kwaku Doffour-Dapaah, Jeff Osei-Agyapong, Perez Sepenu, Alex K. Boateng, Teresa A. Mensah, Patrick Anum, Nana Essuman Oduro, Theophilus Adu-Bredu, Promise E. Sefogah, Jerry Coleman, Samuel A. Oppong

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Faculty Papers

BACKGROUND: Africa has a high burden of congenital anomalies due in part to limited preconception care, infections, and environmental exposures. However, the true prevalence of congenital anomalies is unclear because of insufficient access to prenatal diagnostic services. We aimed to determine the rate of congenital anomalies, and characterize the anomalies detected prenatally at a referral hospital in Ghana.

METHODS: We performed a four-year retrospective review of all fetal anomaly ultrasounds performed and congenital anomalies detected from January 1st, 2020, to December 31st, 2023, at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana. Data were extracted from the electronic database on maternal age, …

Forms Of Parenting, Jason Jimenez, Lisa K. Lashley, Charles J. Golden

Essays in Developmental Psychology

Parenting styles represent the different strategies that parents use when raising their children. Clinical and developmental psychologist Diana Baumrind believed there were two basic dimensions to parenting: warmth and control. Baumrind identified three parenting styles: Authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive styles based on these two dimensions. Her work was later expanded by Maccoby and Martin to include neglectful parenting.

Increasing Parental Involvement Of Low Socioeconomic Status Families, To Help Increase Student Reading Achievement, Jean M. Routley Robinson

Masters Projects

There is a gap in reading achievement for children from low socioeconomic status families despite efforts to the contrary. A major factor contributing to achievement in reading is parental involvement. This involvement is important for all children, but is especially important when it comes to raising the reading abilities of children from low socioeconomic backgrounds. A focus on Pierre Bourdieu and his theories around social and cultural capital shape the framework for understanding why a lack of involvement can exist, as well as what can be done to increase it. Four main themes emerged to improve participation. They are: shifting …

Visual Detection Of Cyanide In Food Based On Coumarin Fluorescent Probe, Hu Xiaojun, Li Zheng, Wang Xiali, Zhang Xin, He Qingke, Liu Xiang

Food and Machinery

［Objective］ To develop a method for detecting cyanide in food based on a novel fluorescent probe.［Methods］ Based on the strong nucleophilicity of cyanide,a novel reactive coumarin fluorescent probe is synthesized.The response mechanism,reaction rate,selectivity,and linear relationship between the probe and cyanide are analyzed and validated using real samples.［Results］］ The probe has excellent selectivity for cyanide and demonstrates a rapid response to cyanide,able to complete the reaction within 1 minute.At a probe concentration of 10 µmol/L,the linear range of cyanide detection is 5~90 µmol/L,with a linear equation of Y=11.645 45+7.014 55X and a detection limit of 0.065 µmol/L.In actual sample testing,the recovery …

Mobile Robots And Autonomous Vehicle Control: A Comprehensive Review Of The Advancements And Challenges, Elvis Tamakloe, Benjamin Kommey, Ernest Ofosu Addo, Daniel Opoku

Makara Journal of Technology

Since their inception, mobile robots have enormously changed the landscape of robotics engineering in recent years. Imperatively, the impact of mobile robots has positively transformed many sectors of human endeavors, i.e., complemented and substituted humans in areas where human interactions were difficult, hazardous, and impossible to thrive and operate. In this regard, the contributions of mobile robots to scientific, social, and economic growth, development, and advancement cannot be overlooked, especially through its decades of transition from Industry 3.0 to 4.0 over the years. To achieve maximum benefits from the use of mobile robots across all important facets, their advancements and …

Enhancing Engagement And Accessibility With Ai, Dynamic Camera, & Multi-Device Integration, Jorge Fonseca Cacho, Benjamin Cisneros

UNLV Best Teaching Practices Expo

One of the biggest challenges in both in-person and remote learning is maintaining student engagement. Traditional lecture recording setups rely on static cameras, keeping the instructor locked in one position. However, research shows that students are more engaged when instructors move naturally throughout the room, using gestures, proximity, and dynamic body language to reinforce key concepts. Our solution integrates the Insta360 Link AI-powered facial tracking camera, which autonomously follows the instructor's movement across the classroom. This allows for a more natural, interactive teaching experience where students remain visually and cognitively engaged. Paired with a Laptop for presentations, an iPad Pro …

Not Just The International Office: A Campus-Wide Approach To International Student Success, Lyndsay N. Curatolo

Masters Projects

This project addresses the multifaceted nature of experiences and challenges for international students studying at Western higher education institutions (HEIs), focusing on their integration in a way that allows them to preserve their cultural integrity. Despite the ever-growing numbers of international students studying at Western HEIs, many institutions do not provide international students with either adequate or holistic support services that promote integration and/or preserve cultural integrity. To adequately support international students at Western HEIs, institutions need to develop comprehensive support systems that extend across campuses. In response, I propose the creation of an International Student Learning Community that is …

Sexuality: Issues In Adulthood, Taylor D. Michl, Amanda Kracen

Essays in Developmental Psychology

Human sexuality in Western cultures is generally comprised of emotional intimacy, sexual identity, and sexual behavior. Sex is understood and experienced differently by people as aspects of identity (e.g., culture, race, class, gender, ability, size, religion, sexual identity) affect sexuality. Although engaging in sex is not necessary for a fulfilling life, the majority of adults in the U.S. participate in sexual activity, and regular sexual activity correlates with improved mental health (Brody, 2010).

Correction: A Mapping Review And Critique Of The Literature On Translation, Dissemination, And Implementation Capacity Building Initiatives For Different Audiences, Ana A Baumann, Danielle R Adams, Laura-Mae Baldwin, Rachel G Tabak, Sara Malone, Maura M Kepper, Anita D Misra-Hebert, Kathleen R Stevens, Maria E Fernandez, Sunil Kripalani

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

This corrects the article "A mapping review and critique of the literature on translation, dissemination, and implementation capacity building initiatives for different audiences", 34.

Caregivers’ Satisfaction With And Perceived Cultural Sensitivity Of A Modification Of A Child Injury Prevention Program For Spanish-Speaking Families, Karen Padilla

Honors Theses

Unintentional injuries are a leading cause of death among children in the United States. Caregivers play a critical role in reducing children’s risk of injury by adopting appropriate supervision behaviors and engaging in safety-proofing practices. The Supervising for Home Safety (SHS) program is a video-based intervention developed to increase caregiver supervision for children ages 2–5 by targeting beliefs about injury vulnerability, injury preventability, and self-efficacy for implementing safety precautions. While SHS has demonstrated effectiveness in English-speaking populations, no research has examined its adaptation and impact among Spanish-speaking caregivers. This study aimed to examine caregivers perceived cultural sensitivity and satisfaction with …

Attachment Theory: John Dollard And Neal Miller, Carla Cabrera, Lisa K. Lashley, Charles J. Golden

Essays in Developmental Psychology

No abstract provided.

April 25, 2025 Minutes, Swosu Faculty Senate

Faculty Senate Minutes

No abstract provided.

Investigating The Intersection Of Cultural Design Preferences And Web Accessibility Guidelines With Designers From The Global South, Laleh Nourian, Vinaya Hanumant Naikar, Kristen Shinohara, Garreth W. Tigwell

Articles

Cultural background influences aesthetic web design preferences, and aesthetic design impacts accessible design. However, limited research has focused on this intersection of cultural background and accessible web design. With the majority of HCI and design resources originating from the Global North, we investigated the conflicts experienced due to the cultural background of digital designers from the Global South and current web accessibility guidelines. We conducted a design activity and interview study with 10 designers from five countries in the Global South to identify how current web accessibility guidelines conflict with our participants’ cultural design preferences. We found there are specific …

Writing Skills: The Essentials, Gina Braun

Essays in Developmental Psychology

Writing Skills are an essential component of communicating and develop over time. It does not matter the intention of writing, it is a skill used daily, and we must prepare our students to have the adequate skills they will need to function as writers. Writing skills taught in school are focused on academic writing, which should transfer and generalize across settings. Writing skills take on different forms with a variety of levels of importance. The necessary writing skills needed include; the writing process, which is supported by, mechanics, writing for a variety of purposes, and finally, building technological skills.

Hegemonic Masculinity: Exploring How Asian And Pacific Islander Emerging Adult Males Describe Masculinity, Eman'on Wanderer

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

The phenomenon of hegemonic masculinity presents a significant mental health concern among diverse emerging adult males. This generic qualitative study was an exploration of the perspectives of Asian and Pacific Islander emerging adult males regarding their descriptions of masculinity. Gender schema theory (GST) is the foundational framework of this study. Rooted in social cognitive theory, GST exemplifies how environmental factors shape the initial development of gender identity and the enduring effects this gendering has on cognitive processes throughout an individual's life. The primary research question in this study was: How do Asian and Pacific Islander emerging adult males describe masculinity? …

Friendship Among Children, Caitlin F. Herman, Lisa K. Lashley, Charles J. Golden

Essays in Developmental Psychology

Friendships in childhood are essential to overall development, beyond having someone to socialize with. Research suggests that friendships in children can help mitigate psychopathology, can be considered protective factors against being bullied and acting as a bully, and help with developing strong cultural competence. Aspects of friendships such as quality and intimacy of the relationship, as well as quantity of friends have been investigated for their importance in moderating many of these factors. Lack of friendships can lead to both short-term and long-term challenges for children, such as loneliness and feeling isolated from peers, anxiety and other internalizing disorders, and …

Emotional Expression In Children, Caitlin F. Herman, Lisa K. Lashley, Charles J. Golden

Essays in Developmental Psychology

The development of emotional expression begins from the time an infant bonds with his or her caregiver. Establishing this bond occurs through both the caregiver expressing her feelings to the child and understanding the emotions expressed by the infant. This communication is almost exclusively non-verbal for a long period of time, which requires understanding of and ability to express emotions via facial expressions and vocal inflections. Infants use non-verbal communication to express needs and wants, and the caregiver’s ability to respond to these expressions appropriately is essential to establishing emotional bonds and a confidence in the ability to have one’s …

The Conservative Approach To Informed Consent: The Evidentiary Model And An Antidote To The Problem Of Framing Effects In Medical Decision-Making, James D. Polk

Honors Theses

Since the latter part of the 20th century, there has been a gradual but significant shift of the doctor-patient relation from paternalism to a more patient-centric approach. As such, informed consent – the legal and moral requirement that a physician fully disclose relevant details to their patient and gain their consent – is a central doctrine to patient-centric care. Gone are the days of the doctor governing the patient: the patient is now considered a valuable and important decision-maker. Achieving informed consent is the foundation of patient centric medicine. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that philosophical consideration be …

Perspective Taking Stages, Caitlin F. Herman, Lisa K. Lashley, Charles J. Golden

Essays in Developmental Psychology

Perspective taking is the ability to gain an understanding of how another person is thinking or feeling about an event based on the information which is available. Learning to understand the perspective of another person is an ability that develops over childhood through many stages. Typically, this concept is first grasped by school age, or around 6 to 7 years of age. There are multiple types of perspectives that can be taken as well, including physical or visual perspective, affective perspective, cognitive perspective, or perspective of communication. Each of these types is important for social behaviors and the ability to …

The Dynamic Immune Behavior Of Primary And Metastatic Ovarian Carcinoma, Elaine Stur, Fuduan Peng, Pang-Ning Teng, Emine Bayraktar, Min Hu, Sara Corvigno, David J Brown, Sanghoon Lee, Kathleen N Moore, Nicholas W Bateman, Kathleen M Darcy, George L Maxwell, Thomas P Conrads, Nidhi Sahni, Ignacio Vázquez-García, Sohrab P Shah, Joseph Celestino, Nicole D Fleming, Nicholas E Navin, Linghua Wang, Anil K Sood

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Patients with high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSC) are usually diagnosed with advanced-stage disease, and the tumors often have immunosuppressive characteristics. Together, these factors are important for disease progression, drug resistance, and mortality. In this study, we used a combination of single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics to identify the molecular mechanisms that lead to immunosuppression in HGSC. Primary tumors consistently showed a more active immune microenvironment than did omental tumors. In addition, we found that untreated primary tumors were mostly populated by dysfunctional CD4 and CD8 T cells in later stages of differentiation; this, in turn, was correlated with expression changes …

Heinz Werner, Ethan Fleuchaus, Katie Cunningham, Heidi Kloos

Essays in Developmental Psychology

Heinz Werner (February 11, 1890 – May 14, 1964) was an Austrian psychologist who played an active role in defining the field of developmental psychology at the start of the 20th century. While initially seeking to become a composer and music historian, he changed his mind after listening to a lecture on Immanuel Kant at the University of Vienna. Werner became engrossed in topics of philosophy and psychology (which were combined at the time), and he wrote his dissertation on the psychology of aesthetic experiences. Subsequently he worked at the University of Hamburg, where he published the first edition of …

Daca’S Impact On Recipients: Interviews With Three Daca Recipients From Michigan, Jazmin Moron

Honors Theses

This thesis explores the lived experiences of three Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients residing in Michigan. It examines how DACA has impacted their lives across three distinct phases: pre-DACA, while applying for DACA, and post-DACA. Through qualitative, semi-structured interviews, this research uncovers key themes: normal childhood, proof of presence, skeptical DACA future, and restricted immigration pathways. While DACA offered recipients increased opportunities in education, employment, and stability, it also imposed systemic challenges such as costly renewals, limited career growth, and continued legal uncertainty. By focusing on Michigan—a state with a relatively small Hispanic/Latino population—this study highlights the unique …

From Student-Athlete To Working Professional: Career Readiness For College Athletes, Elizabeth M. Gibbs

Masters Projects

College student-athletes face unique challenges in preparing for life and work after graduation. With a significant amount of time dedicated to their athletic career, many student-athletes have limited opportunities to explore potential careers, participate in internships, or get involved in activities or work on or off campus. The number of student-athletes has continued to increase, and it is important for student-athletes to utilize career resources available to them. Research has shown that student-athletes struggle with career readiness and lack of confidence in transitioning out of their athletic career. It is important to adequately prepare them for the workforce, as very …

Sustainability Recognition Program: A Gamified Approach To Student Engagement On Campus, Sydney K. Gandolfi

Masters Projects

This project explores how gamification can be used to increase student engagement in sustainable practices on college campuses by creating a Sustainability Recognition Program. College students, though aware of environmental issues, may struggle to connect individual actions with meaningful change. By introducing a point-based system with digital badges, milestone rewards, and leaderboards, this recognition program is designed to make sustainability more accessible, visible, and motivating for students living in residence halls. Guided by Self-Determination Theory (SDT), the program is designed to support students’ intrinsic motivation (autonomy), competence, and relatedness. By aligning sustainability goals with positive reinforcement and SDT, the overall …

Standardizing Support: Creating A Digital Guidebook For College Access Professionals, Darci L. Vanwormer

Masters Projects

Despite the expansion of college access programs across the United States, a streamlined, comprehensive resource for college access professionals remains to be found. This gap disproportionately impacts first-generation, low-income, and racially minoritized students who may not have the knowledge and support systems necessary to navigate the realm of postsecondary education. Recent literature on college advising, college access, and diverse student needs was collected and analyzed to best inform the intervention. The purpose of this project is to provide an accessible, centralized guidebook via a user-friendly website that serves as a foundational resource for college access professionals and is supported by …

Rachel Barr, Huda Abu-Suwa, Lisa K. Lashley, Charles J. Golden

Essays in Developmental Psychology

Dr. Rachel Barr is a developmental and clinical psychologist, and a leading expert on early learning and memory. She has published and presented on over 200 articles, encyclopedia entries, book chapters, and poster presentations on subjects related to child development and psychology and continues to do research in these fields (Rachel Barr, 2019).

Psychological Development: Cognition, Emotions, Personality, Anita Knight Kuhnley, Kelly Carapezza, Gary Sibcy

Essays in Developmental Psychology

Adolescence is considered the age that bridges childhood and adulthood, Erik Erikson, who has contributed much to our understanding of the developmental stages described adolescence as, “the age mediating between childhood and adulthood (Erikson, 1997, p.xi).” Adolescence includes the sometimes tumultuous years between the ages of 11 and 21, and the Eriksons addressed this as one stage (Newman and Newman, 2013). Some authors attribute the fact that adolescence is such a trying time to the fact that adolescents lose synapses in the brain specifically in the primary visual cortex at a rate of 5,000 per second (Bears, Connor, and Paradiso, …

Birth Complications, Chris Burley, Lisa K. Lashley, Charles J. Golden

Essays in Developmental Psychology

Complications during childbirth can pose a serious threat to both infant and maternal health. Birth complications can lead to a variety of different health risks, ranging from minor to severe in nature. The following common labor complications can happen even after a standard pregnancy with no difficulties or high risk variables.