Digital Commons Network^™

Final Report: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Snap), Chelsea Livingstone

The Political Realm: Journal of Undergraduate Research in Political Science and International Relations

The article evaluates the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), arguing that while it is one of the nation’s most effective anti-hunger policies—reducing food insecurity, lifting millions out of poverty, and stabilizing household resources—it continues to produce uneven outcomes due to administrative burdens, geographic disparities, and barriers faced by rural, immigrant, and mixed‑status households. Using Kingdon’s Multiple Streams Framework, the paper explains how SNAP’s expansions and limitations reflect shifting alignments among problem recognition, feasible policy solutions, and political will. It concludes with evidence‑based recommendations to improve equity and access, including streamlined enrollment, regionally adjusted benefits, strengthened outreach, and reduced stigma to …

A Comparative Study Examining The Effects Of Nifedipine And Minoxidil On Stimulating Hair Growth Using A Mouse Model, Nihad Hussein Ahmed, Rabei Abdullah Salih, Shereen M. Mekkey

Al-Mustaqbal Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Sciences

Hair loss is a common human scalp condition caused by chemotherapy, chronic diseases, and aging. Currently, it is estimated that approximately 50% of males and 15–30% of females experience hair loss issues. Minoxidil is considered a preferred treatment for hair loss in men and women. Nifedipine is effective in improving blood circulation and blood supply via its vasodilator action. To compare nifedipine and minoxidil in terms of their effect on stimulating hair growth using a mouse model. Fifteen female albino mice, aged 8 to 10 weeks, were randomly assigned to three groups of five mice each, all with shaved dorsal …

Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, And Pharmacological Potential Of Philenoptera Laxiflora: An Emerging African Medicinal Plant For Drug Discovery, Albashir Tahir

Al-Mustaqbal Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Sciences

Medicinal plants remain an important source of therapeutic agents and play a significant role in modern drug discovery. Philenoptera laxiflora (Fabaceae) is a tropical African plant widely used in traditional medicine, but the scientific evidence supporting its therapeutic potential remains fragmented. This review aims to comprehensively summarize the current knowledge on the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical composition, pharmacological activities, and toxicological profile of P. laxiflora, while highlighting research gaps and future directions for drug discovery. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic scientific databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. Relevant publications on the ethnobotany, …

Bioactive Constituents And Pharmacological Activities Of Curcuma Zedoaria: A Mini-Review, Abdulmutalib Allaq, Muneer M. Saleh Mohammed Saleh Alsayadi, Mustapha Salihu, Hasan M. Agha, Amena Hassan Hassan Gheeth, Fatimah Salim, Norrizah Jaafar Jaafar Sidik

AUIQ Complementary Biological System

Curcuma zedoaria Rosc. (white turmeric) is a rhizomatous medicinal plant in the Zingiberaceae family, widely used in traditional Asian medicine. In recent years, increasing scientific attention has focused on its diverse pharmacological properties and bioactive constituents. This mini review summarises current knowledge of the phytochemical composition and biological activities of C. zedoaria, with particular emphasis on its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Phytochemical investigations using analytical techniques such as GC–MS and HPLC have revealed the presence of numerous bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes (example, germacrone, curzerenone, and curdione) and curcuminoids, which contribute to its therapeutic potential. Experimental studies demonstrate …

Hakim Komisaris : Solusi Ke Arah Prinsip Keadilan, Indriyanto Seno Adji

Jurnal Hukum & Pembangunan

Abstract

Mapping The Void In Electric Vehicle (Ev) Adoption Research: Uncovering Lack Of Socio-Economic Study In The Global South, Satvik Pandey, Rahul Tiwari, Rajat Soni

Mansoura Engineering Journal

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are considered an effective contemporary alternative to Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles. Research in the domain of EV is being conducted globally across a variety of fields; among them, our study explored research on consumer adoption. Going through the bibliometric analysis of the data taken from the Scopus database, what came to our attention is the minimal amount of work that is done on understanding consumers of EVs. From the literature, we found that consumer preferences are shaped through the influence of several parameters related to EVs, and this influence varies according to the consumer’s socio-economic and …

Optimizing Glycemic Control In Type Ii Diabetes: Continuous Glucose Monitoring : A Scoping Review, Sarah Poe, Bsn, Rn, Bailey Li, Bsn, Rn, Tracy Mcclinton, Dnp, Aprn, Ag-Acnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Individuals with Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) experience increased risk of cardiovascular disease and higher mortality rates relative to non-diabetic populations. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) enables more precise analysis of glucose patterns and trends compared to conventional self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). CGM provides frequent measurements and generate meaningful metrics, such as time in range (TIR), time above range (TAR), and time below range (TBR), allowing evaluation of glucose stability and variability. Despite these advantages, evidence comparing CGM and SMBG remains inconsistent. This scoping review aims to evaluate how CGM compares with SMBG across reported outcomes, including TIR, TAR, …

Grace And Generosity: A Nt Defense Of Christian Giving And Stewardship, Jermaine Mcinnis

Masters Theses

This thesis holds that Christian stewardship and giving remain divinely appointed activities in the NT, despite growing skepticism in modern ecclesial and academic circles. Firmly grounded in biblical theology and canonical exegesis, the research argues that the disciplines of tithing, giving, and sacrificial stewardship are not eliminated by grace but are redirected and intensified with Christ. The research examines OT assumptions, Jesus’ instruction, and apostolic instruction to illustrate consistency in God's expectation of His people's obedience regarding finances. Drawing on current scholarship, the thesis refutes assumptions that giving is optional or less culturally relevant, underlining its vital importance to church …

The Sacrificial Vs. The Luzhinian Figure: Comparing Sacrificial Love In Crime And Punishment, Pride And Prejudice, And A Tale Of Two Cities, Natalie Rose Kubala

Masters Theses

Many works of art and literature exploring the theme of love focus on trying to define what love is; in contrast, this thesis dives deeper into defining what love is not, specifically focusing on the relationship between love and sacrifice. This thesis argues that love is not the same as sacrifice because a true sacrifice requires that love is already present prior to the sacrifice being made. This thesis will compare those who perform true sacrifices to those who perform sacrifices for their own personal gain by exploring grandiose narcissistic characters who perform (or attempt to perform) sacrifices without love …

Judging A Book By Its Cover: Exploring Ethical Solutions For Marketing & Labeling Romance Novels With Illustrated Cover Art, Tricia Filbrun

Honors Projects

As social media platforms and subcommunities have driven massive sales for romance titles in the publishing industry, there has been an intense debate among literary communities, parents, and school administrators about whether the illustrated cover art style is appropriate. Some readers feel that these books are intentionally marketed towards a younger audience, and the sexually explicit nature of the content was not made clear, or labeled at all, before they read the book. This paper explores four likely marketing and labeling solutions that could be implemented to resolve this issue, and whether they are ethical by marketing and advertising standards, …

English As A Pathway To International Relations, Malak Alothman

Language Study as a Gateway to the Humanities

No abstract provided.

April 29, 2026 General Faculty Minutes, University Of South Carolina

Faculty Senate

No abstract provided.

Closing The Gap: Standardizing Sepsis Management To Address Racial Disparities Across Oregon Providence Hospitals, Jennifer Wong, Do, Shelley Schoepflin Sanders, Md, Facp

Books, Presentations, Posters, Etc.

Introduction: Sepsis is a time-sensitive, life-threatening medical emergency affecting approximately 1.7 million adults annually in the United States, contributing to nearly 270,000 deaths and over $24 billion in healthcare expenditures. Delays in recognition and initiation of treatment can significantly increase mortality. Previous studies have identified persistent racial disparities in sepsis care, including lower rates of recognition as the principal diagnosis and delayed antibiotic initiation for Black patients compared with White patients. In alignment with Providence’s mission to provide compassionate, equitable care, Oregon Providence hospitals implemented a standardized “Sepsis Order Set” in all Emergency Departments (ED) to reduce treatment delays and …

Sepsis Transitional Care Management: A Phone Call To Reduce Readmission Health Inequity, Linh Tang Taylor, Md, Erica Leser, Ms, Alyssa Nelson, Michelle Schoepflin Sanders, Md

Books, Presentations, Posters, Etc.

Introduction: Sepsis accounts for 52% of hospital admissions in the United States and is the leading cause of death among hospitalized patients1 . However, disparity exists among sepsis survivors with race being reported as a determinant of recovery2 . Such disparity exists in Providence Oregon 8 hospitals: Providence Black patients have higher sepsis readmission rates than White (12.93% vs 11.65%). Using modified community-based participatory research, data analysis, and stakeholder interviews, we identified one potential root cause of the disparity: Black patients being readmitted are not receiving our system's Transitional Care Management (TCM) services. We aim to eliminate the Black/White sepsis …

Commonwealth Times 2026-04-29

Commonwealth Times, 1969-

No abstract provided.

Impact Of Multicultural Literature Through Reader's Response, Rachel Konrad

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to examine how students respond to using five multicultural read aloud texts and responding to them in a response. The goal of this study was to see if student engagement improved as a result of the study and if student comprehension improved through the use of pre and post assessments. Student data was collected that included a pre and post assessment, anecdotal records of student discussion, responses to texts, and student and parent surveys. Students discovered and discussed themes across texts such as cultural identity, community, and belonging.

Cross-Cultural Neuropsychological Testing: A Behavioral Item Analysis Of The Party Subtest From The Muns Battery Administered To Argentinian And U.S. Participants, Arwen A. Miranda, Alberto Luis Fernandez

Honors Thesis

In response to prevalent cultural bias in neuropsychological testing, cross-cultural tests (CCTs) were developed for accessibility across cultures through the use of “universal” stimuli. The Multicultural Neuropsychological Scale (MUNS) is a CCT developed to be appropriate across education levels, cost-effective and capable of assessing cognitive functions. The MUNS consists of seven subtests, including the Party subtest, which measures executive functioning by instructing participants to organize a party on a map. During this activity, participants purchase items such as food while remaining mindful of a 100-coin budget and minimizing travel distance. The present study examined whether the Party subtest functions comparably …

Center For Social Development Report To The Community: 2026, Center For Social Development, Washington University In St. Louis

Center for Social Development Research

For more than 30 years, the Center for Social Development (CSD) has been a hub for implementing and testing applied social innovations. As the 2026 "Report to the Community" underscores, we remain dedicated to our mission to advance policies and practices that support individuals, families, and communities in achieving their goals and contributing to society and the economy.

The Changed Woman: Analyzing Narrative Parallels In The Stories Of Biblical Women And Musical Theatre Heroines, Finleigh Klein

Honors Projects

Musical theatre has become popular with audiences around the world. Many musicals contain stories of hope and overcoming obstacles, especially in narratives concerning young women. Since the Bible also contains a wealth of stories that focus on strong women, it is interesting to consider what connections may be found between the women represented in this ancient text and the female characters in various musical theatre productions.

With these potential connections in mind, I ask the question: how is the Biblical trope of the uplifting of women represented in songs sung by female characters in musical theatre? Furthermore, how can the …

The Impact Of Mentor Text On Second Grade Writing, Brittany A. Still

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to (a) ascertain the effect mentor text had on student engagement and (b) determine the impact mentor text had on student writing style. Students utilized strategies from five mentor texts during the writer's workshop to write their own personal narratives. Students demonstrated increased engagement through class discussions following each read aloud. Writing style was impacted as students implemented different writing elements into their own writing based on the mentor text discussed. Implications for teaching writing are discussed.

Energy Transitions By Wire? The Spatial Politics Of Transmission Development In New England, Maddy Kroot

Student Publications [Scholarly]

This data set is a corpus of de-identified transcripts from a doctoral research project examining local opposition to two high-voltage transmission lines in northern New England. The corpus includes 41 transcripts from interview participants who consented for their de-identified transcripts to be posted to the Clark Digital Commons. This research was supported by the NSF Human-Environment and Geographical Sciences Doctoral  Dissertation Research Improvement Award (#2400991).

Recognition Celebration 2026, Communications And Marketing

Faculty And Staff Recognition Dinner Programs

Award Winners:

University of Minnesota John Tate Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Advising: Marissa Holst

UMM Faculty Distinguished Research Award: Heather Peters

UMM Alumni Association Teaching Award: Cheryl Stewart

Community Engagement Award: Miriam Gieske

Morris Academic Staff Award: Jessica Porwoll

Mary Martelle Memorial Award: Marie Hagen

Outstanding Support Staff Awards: Tera Kleespie, Teresa Sayles, Rebecca Hamilton

Retirees: Kathy Dingman, Bart Finzel, Stephen Gross, Roland Guyotte, Arne Kildegaard, Athena Kildegaard

Perceptions Of Rural Large Animal Owners On Cost And Distance As Barriers To Veterinary Medicine, Alyssa Dalleske

Honors College Theses

Access to veterinary care remains a significant issue in rural communities due to financial, geographic, and access barriers. Limited access to veterinary care can have an impact on animal welfare and an economic impact for producers. This study aimed to assess factors influencing access to veterinary services, including cost, distance to clinics, perceived value of care, and availability of mobile veterinary professionals. The survey was distributed to rural large animal owners using social media, and gained 20 participants. It collected data on perceived barriers within their communities. The survey results indicated that cost of care and distance to veterinary clinics …

How To Build A Successful High School Sports Program, Jacob Jude Mulligan

M.S. in Leadership

The goal of this study was to explore the most influential factors for building a successful high school sports program. Through an expansive literature review, including testimonies from Hall of Fame coaches, themes emerged around the importance of Vision, Relationships, Belief, and Identity when it comes to the question of how to build a successful high school sports program. This research was conducted with the purpose of highlighting evidence of how these four themes have led to a positive culture and success for sports programs and athletes. This study is designed to help current and future high school coaches so …

Evaluating The Screening And Referral Process For The Use Of Phq-9 Screening Tool In Middle-School Aged Students: A Scoping Review, Kaythi Soe, Msn, Pmhnp-Bc, Fnp-Bc, Margaret Harvey Phd, Acnp-Bc, Fhrs, Sharon Little Dnp, Fnp-Bc

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

No abstract provided.

Credential Shortages In Higher Education Programs In Mountain West Metro Areas, 2024, Isabelle G. Graham, Kristian Thymianos, Olivia K. Cheche, William E. Brown Jr.

Economic Development & Workforce

This fact sheet reports data on workforce demand for middle-skills jobs across five high-paying occupational categories: healthcare, management, blue-collar, protective services, and STEM. The Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce report, “Missed Opportunities: Credential Shortages in Programs Aligned with High-Paying Middle-Skills Jobs in 55 US Metro Areas,” includes metro-level data on 55 metro areas in the United States in 2024.2 This fact sheet focuses on data for five Mountain West metro areas, including Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO; Las-Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, NV; Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ; Salt Lake City, UT; and Tucson, AZ.

Ai Mistakes: "Confabulation" And Abduction, Not "Hallucination", Stephen M. Mcjohn, Ian Mcjohn

Suffolk University Law School Faculty Works

"Hallucination" has become the common term for errors by AI systems, yet it implies a misleading analogy to human perception. LLM's process tokens. They do not have conscious experience or conscious perception. A hallucination is an experience, and (to our knowledge, to date) LLM's do not experience anything. This paper suggests that legal scholars follow the lead of a small number of AI researchers who have suggested that "confabulation" is a more accurate term, a metaphor grounded in psychology. People confabulate when they unknowingly invent spurious explanations or facts. We then take this terminological question and stretch it into a …

The Catalan-Speaking Linguistic Landscape Of Spain: A Comparative Analysis Of Commercial Signage In Barcelona, Valencia, And Palma De Mallorca, Kyle Reasons

Honors Theses

The present study is a linguistic landscape of the Catalan-speaking region of Spain. Linguistic landscaping is a relatively new survey technique in the world of linguistics first developed in a study by Landry & Bourhis (1997) and has a focus on addressing the languages present on various forms of signage within a given area. Catalan is a Romance language with approximately 9 million speakers where it is recognized as a co-official language in 3 communities included in this study (the Balearic Islands, Catalonia, and the Valencian Community). This study looks at 3 cities in Spain (Barcelona, Valencia, and Palma de …

Separate But Equally Funded: Reforming Education Savings Accounts For Homeschoolers, Matthew Mcguire

Senior Honors Theses

Public commodities require public access. I review twenty-one state-funded education savings accounts (ESAs) funded by general fund revenues to argue that limiting home-education access violates principles of public access—The General Availability Doctrine. To the dismay of many home-educated students, nine state-funded ESAs require parents to terminate their home-education status as a condition for public funds. At least five state-funded ESAs require public school attendance as a prerequisite to receive funds, thereby precluding homeschooling students. Three state-funded ESAs treat home-education negatively by reducing funding based on a student's home-education status. The discriminatory treatment of home-educated parents and students raises First and …

Global Research On Palm Oil Diseases And Infections: A Bibliometric Analysis, Fahmi Achmad Saputra, Indria Puti Mustika, Anna Safarida, Catur Sriherwanto, Nicky Rahmana Putra

Makara Journal of Technology

The sustainability of global palm oil production faces significant threats from a range of diseases and infections affecting palm oil crops. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to map the scientific landscape and evolution of research related to palm oil diseases over the past decade. Using data from the Scopus database, 366 relevant documents were analyzed using R and VOSviewer to uncover trends in publication volume, citation impact, prolific authors, country contributions, and keyword co-occurrence networks. The findings reveal a strong research concentration on G. boninense, highlighting its critical role as a persistent pathogen in oil palm plantations. Emerging …