Digital Commons Network^™

Considering The Implications Of Tariffs, John Visser

Faculty Work Comprehensive List

"As we continue to evaluate the role of tariffs, we should do so in the context of broadly improving the global trading system."

Posting about ­­­­­­­­ethical economic policies from In All Things, an online hub that offers insight into maintaining and faithful and orthodox Reformed Christian worldview while fearlessly engaging in every aspect of contemporary life – until all is made new.

Considering the Implications of Tariffs

Learning Structure With Multivariate Information Bottleneck And Exploration Of New Methods In Sequential Decision Making, Volodymyr Makarenko

Master's Theses

Research in useful information extraction has been motivated by the increasing demand to extract insights from unstructured data, and by the need to store and transmit great volumes of information, often originating in unstructured data such as videos. Research in rate distortion and information bottleneck paved the path for understanding and guiding the design of lossy encoders, capable of extracting relevant information. Independently, research in deep representation learning has enabled numerous applications for unstructured high-dimensional data such as images. However, the interpretability of the deep learning methods remained limited. Several desired properties of learned representations have been suggested, including disentanglement. …

Challenges And Opportunities In Medical Tourism, Nizar Zein

Visions in Leisure and Business

Medical tourism is a rapidly expanding industry, with an increasing number of patients traveling abroad for medical treatments and procedures. This trend is expected to continue as the industry evolves to meet shifting patient demands and preferences. People are motivated to seek healthcare outside their home countries for various reasons, such as access to advanced technology, faster treatment, higher quality care, or more affordable options available in the destination country. Patients today are more informed and selective about their healthcare choices. They seek not only cost-effective treatments but also high-quality care and an exceptional patient experience. The future of medical …

Perspective, Fang Wang, Katey Price, David Groves

Visions in Leisure and Business

Health and medical tourism are a very complex set of issues. This issue of Visions cannot address this issue of complexity, but there are three primary dimensions. They appear in a number of articles that are directly related to the future of health and medical tourism. These three issues are data, cooperation, and barriers. These are not interrelated concepts, but will have an impact upon future considerations. In addition, to these basic issues, the dimension of agencies that are involved is highly diverse. This perspective reviewed some of the basic structures to gain a greater understanding for further discussions and …

Health Tourism Facility Use Of Digital Marketing And Ai, David Vequist Iv

Visions in Leisure and Business

The proliferation of social media platforms has fundamentally reshaped patient acquisition strategies in health and wellness tourism, creating unprecedented opportunities for providers to engage with international patients across diverse digital channels. From boutique clinics in Mexico offering specialized dental, cosmetic, and bariatric procedures, to destination medspas providing aesthetic treatments, and even comprehensive global hospitals like the Mayo Clinic, healthcare providers are leveraging multi-platform social media strategies to attract and inform potential medical travelers. Research indicates that these digital marketing approaches now encompass a sophisticated array of content formats, including short-form video on TikTok, professional imagery on Instagram, long-form educational content …

The Spoon In The Sand: Cripping The Adventure Narrative To Reclaim Autonomy, Maggie Morehart, Fang Wang

Visions in Leisure and Business

Disabled and chronically ill adventure travel - and the digital storytelling that accompanies it - can act as both a deeply personal and a political statement that resides at the intersection of empowerment, rebellion, and performative pressure. Platforms like Instagram amplify the narrative of overcoming, while shifting perceptions of what disabled adventure looks like. These narratives simultaneously have the potential to challenge stereotypes or reinforce unrealistic expectations of disabled bodies. This paper explores the value of adventure and its portrayal as a means of asserting independence, pushing limits, and reclaiming agency in an ableist world.

Conceptual Framework: Emotional Intelligence And Social Media For Health And Medical Tourism, David L. Groves, Katey A. Price, Fang Wang

Visions in Leisure and Business

Social media technologies have played a significant role in most people's lives in recent years. It has significantly changed the way we do business, form relationships, etc. The health and tourism industry has been significantly changed with the new technologies. It is not only from a client perspective, but also from infrastructural relationships among administrators, doctors, nurses, etc. This is also greatly reflected from a cultural perspective. It is obvious that two of the outstanding elements in helping to understand the impacts of social media are cognitive and emotional factors. Emotional factors play a significant role in social media, and …

A Comparative Subnational Policy Analysis Of State Covid-19 Vaccine Policies And Application Of The Political Determinants Of Health Model, Demetrius Cianci Chapman

Nursing ETDs

A COMPARATIVE SUBNATIONAL POLICY ANALYSIS OF STATE COVID-19 VACCINE POLICIES AND APPLICATION OF THE POLITICAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH MODEL

By

Demetrius Cianci Chapman

Associate of Science Nursing, Jewish Hospital College of Nursing and Allied Health, 1998

Bachelor of Science of Nursing, Saint Louis University, 2000

Master of Public Health, Saint Louis University, 2004

Master of Science Nursing (Research), Saint Louis University, 2004

Doctor of Philosophy, Nursing, University of New Mexico, 2025

ABSTRACT

This study uses the political determinants of health (PDoH) framework to analyze state-level COVID-19 vaccine policies and their impact on population health. The PDoH model examines how structured …

Evaluating Nfl Quarterback Decision Making Through Tracking Data, Jesse N. Melville

Theses and Dissertations

Quarterback decision-making is one of the most critical determinants of success in the National Football League (NFL), yet traditional statistics fail to account for the spatial, temporal, and contextual factors influencing each play. This thesis proposes a data-driven methodology for evaluating quarterback decisions using NFL player tracking data from the 2022 season. We replicate and extend the DeepQB framework by training deep learning models to estimate expected completion probabilities and expected yards gained for each receiver at the moment of the throw. Our extension applies the approach to a newer dataset with additional contextual features, enabling a more detailed evaluation …

La Emboscada Postpoética De Agustín Fernández Mallo: Física, Cognición, Contemporaneidad, Entropía, Candelas Gala

Purdue Studies in Romance Literatures

La emboscada postpoética de Agustín Fernández Mallo: física, cognición, contemporaneidad, entropía analyzes the poet’s proposal to rescue, with his Postpoetry, official poetry from its sclerotic stagnation due to its fidelity to worn-out premises, to recover a language connected with matter, and to renew its cognitive value. By means of byways (or drifting) through different disciplines, Postpoetry shares space with television, pop music, videos, the Internet, cinema, the arts, publicity, and the sciences, physics in particular. Postpoetry illuminates the intersection between the tranquility that tradition provides and the disquiet that comes with novelty. There is an ambush because, like Odysseus with …

Flowing Progress: Transforming The Danube Through Infrastructure, Stefan Dorondel, Luminita Gatejel

Central European Studies

Flowing Progress: Transforming the Danube Through Infrastructure focuses on how different political regimes and forms of governance have imagined and technologically transformed the most international river in the world. Multidisciplinary and drawing on methodologies of history, anthropology of infrastructure, and science, technology, and society, this collection explores the tensions between the river and its natural pulses, the humans that populate its floodplains, state agencies, and infrastructure. The book engages the concept of disturbance to point out the circular and spiraling dynamics between hydrological processes and technopolitical and economic practices. Disturbance denotes a specific type of long-term dynamic between human attempts …

Empowering Science With The World's First High Accuracy And High Throughput Functional Assay, Christopher Giacoletto

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Understanding the functional consequences of genetic mutations remains a central challenge in modern biology, with far-reaching implications for human health and disease. While early systematic methods like alanine scanning and phage display provided foundational insights into protein structure and function, the emergence of high-throughput approaches—such as Multiplexed Assays of Variant Effect (MAVEs)—and predictive tools powered by artificial intelligence have vastly expanded our ability to profile mutational landscapes. However, these methods are often constrained by trade-offs between accuracy, scalability, and biological relevance.This dissertation presents the development and application of the GigaAssay, the world’s first high-throughput functional assay capable of delivering both …

Internalized Weight Stigma As A Mediator Between Past Weight Stigma And Current Healthcare Avoidance/Comfort In Seeking Medical Care, Shannon Joyel Sagert

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Research has found that medical providers such as physicians, nurses, and medical support staff may contribute to externalized weight stigma directed toward youth (Garcia et al., 2016; Gorlick et al., 2021). Individuals who have encountered weight stigmatization may internalize those experiences, leading to psychological, physical, and behavioral changes that reduce their quality of life (Palad et al., 2019; Romano et al., 2023; Tanas et al., 2022; Zancu & Diaconu-Gherasim, 2023). However, little is known about how historical externalized weight stigma from medical providers relates to future healthcare access behaviors. This study examined whether internalized weight stigma mediated two relationships: First, …

Understanding The Role Of Drug Offenses And The Death Penalty In Iran, Cyrus Zarganj

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Since the 1979 revolution, the Islamic Republic of Iran has been governed by Islamic laws devised by Shia Muslim clerics, significantly influencing the nation's legal framework in both criminal and civil contexts. The death penalty in Iran covers a broad spectrum of offenses, many of which would not be considered capital crimes or even crimes globally. This extensive application of the death penalty is an instrument of social control during periods of political tension, indicating a direct relationship between the regime's stability and the enforcement of extreme punitive measures. Despite some reduction in the visibility of executions due to international …

Factors Associated With Discrimination-Related Distress Among Sexual And Gender Minority Individuals: A Predictive Analysis, Emylia Terry

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals face disparate rates of mental health outcomes, such as psychological distress, which contributes to suicidality. This may be attributable to minority stress, which posits that health inequities impacting this community are driven by increased exposure to stigma- and discrimination-related stressors. The negative physical and psychological health impacts of psychological distress and discrimination are well-documented in the literature. Structural stigma – in the form of harmful anti-LGBTQIA+ laws and policies – is associated with increased suicidality. However, little is known about factors associated with perceived discrimination occurrences and discrimination-related distress. First, a systematic review was …

Little Cigar And Cigarillo Graphic Health Warnings And Quitting Behaviors A Randomized Clinical Trial, Adam O. Goldstein, Kristen L. Jarman, Leah M. Ranney, Jennifer Cornacchione Ross, Sarah D. Kowitt, Chineme Enyioha, Sonia A. Clark, Paschal Sheeran, James F. Thrasher Ph.D., Ma, Ms, Desmond Jenson, Nadja A. Vielot

Faculty Publications

IMPORTANCE Although little cigars and cigarillos (LCCs) are common combustible tobacco products, the effects of LCC warning labels on behavioral outcomes remain untested.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of LCC graphic health warnings (GHWs) on promoting LCC quitting intentions and behaviors.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This randomized clinical trial included 1029 adult LCC users from a Qualtrics online panel who were randomized to (1) LCC GHWs (n = 339), (2) existing US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) text-only warnings (n = 346), or (3) no stimulus control (n = 344). Participants accessed messages via email from May 1 to August …

Msw Portfolio, Jennifer Lynn Barnhill

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

The Master of Social Work (MSW) Portfolio is a sample of the essays, presentations, projects, and experiences completed as part of my online MSW curriculum at the University of Montana (UM) School of Social Work (SSW) from 2022-2025. Throughout this narrative, I’ll describe the skills, values, theories, and frameworks I’ve learned during my three years working toward my master's degree in social work. Each of the appendices will demonstrate an understanding of the nine Council on Social Work Education, or CSWE, competencies (Texas College, n.d.) that all social workers are expected to meet, along with a tenth competency added by …

Msw Portfolio 2025, Lacie R. Ranieri

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

MSW Portfolio - 2025

Professional Portfolio, Grace E. Lowder

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Hydrothermal Synthesis Of High Surface Area Mesoporous Silica As An Efficient Adsorbent For Removal Of Crystal Violet Dye From Aqueous Solution, Inaam H. Ali, Ameera Hassan Hamed, Ennas Abdul Hussein, Saadiyah A. Dhahir

Baghdad Science Journal

In this work, a sample of mesoporous silica (MPS) with a high surface area was prepared by hydrothermal synthesis procedure. To investigate the properties of the prepared sample, it was characterized using different techniques like N₂ Adsorption-desorption, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Atomic Force microscopy (AFM). In order to evaluate the efficiency of the prepared MPS, adsorption study was carried to examine the ability of MPS to remove crystal violet dye (CV) from aqueous solution. The study was done in different conditions of initial concentration (25-60 mg/L) of dye, dosage of MPS (0.01-0.05 g) and temperature …

Genetic Analysis Of Spp1 Polymorphism In Samples Of Iraqi Colon Cancer Patients, Ghufran Kadhim Talal, Ahmed Younus Abed

Baghdad Science Journal

Cancer is a multistage defect and very complex disease. It is distinguished by particular genetic mutations that lead to a loss of management of cellular functions during uncontrolled growth of normal cells leading to malignant cells. CA18 occurs by the abnormal growth of cells in colon. SPP1 is multifunctional protein. The aim of this study is to study genetic polymorphism of SPP1gene in CA18 patients along with healthy individuals to find the relationship with CA18 and compare both globally. DNA was extracted and the genetic polymorphism of the SPP1gene was determined. Genetic analysis of SPP1 (in rs11730582 T/C region) polymorphism …

Ability Of Staphylococcus Epidermidis And Escherichia Coli To Eliminate Cadmium, Lead And Copper From Tigris River In Mosul City, May A. Abdul Kader, Ghada A. Mohammad

Baghdad Science Journal

The heavy metals are non-biodegradable and could be toxic and carcinogenic, thus, their improper concentration in water could result in critical health issues for living organisms. Therefore, this study aimed to remove three heavy metals (Cadmium, lead and copper) by biological treatment especially using environmental nonpathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli. Eight samples were collected from Tigris River from different regions of Mosul city. Two containers were used for each sample to measure the concentration of minerals before and after treatment by bacteria. The results showed that E. coli was more efficient in removing two heavy …

Nitrogen Fertilizer Equivalence Of Red Clover When Inter-Seeded Into Corn, Hannah R. Francis, Ting Fung Ma, Rodrigo Werle, Chelsea H. Zegler, Daniel H. Smith, Douglas J. Soldat, Erika Marin-Spiotta, Matthew D. Ruark

Faculty Publications

Inter-seeding red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) provides an alternative method toincorporate cover crops into continuous corn (Zea mays L.) in the Upper US Midwest. Red clover is a leguminous cover crop that can grow in low-radiation environments and is winter hardy. Systems with red clover have demonstrated improved corn yield and a fertilizer N equivalence but understanding these effects with inter-seeding war-rants further investigation. The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of inter-seeding red clover on (i) plant-available N during and after red clover decomposition, (ii) optimum N rates for corn, and (iii) corn yields. The …

Nitrogen Fertilizer Equivalence Of Red Clover When Inter-Seeded Into Corn, Hannah R. Francis, Ting Fung Ma, Rodrigo Werle, Chelsea H. Zegler, Daniel H. Smith, Douglas J. Soldat, Erika Marin-Spiotta, Matthew D. Ruark

Faculty Publications

Inter-seeding red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) provides an alternative method to incorporate cover crops into continuous corn (Zea mays L.) in the Upper US Midwest. Red clover is a leguminous cover crop that can grow in low-radiation environments and is winter hardy. Systems with red clover have demonstrated improved corn yield and a fertilizer N equivalence but understanding these effects with inter-seeding warrants further investigation. The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of inter-seeding red clover on (i) plant-available N during and after red clover decomposition, (ii) optimum N rates for corn, and (iii) corn …

Msw Portfolio, Andrea C. Lawrence

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Master Of Social Work, Tanner J. Bailey

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio documents my academic and professional development throughout the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the University of Montana. Using my practicum experiences in juvenile probation and anonymous crisis intervention work, this paper integrates critical reflection, theory-informed application, and evidence-based practice to demonstrate my readiness as an advanced integrated social work practitioner.

Guided by the five elements of advanced integrated practice, the portfolio is structured around the ten core competencies outlined by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Key theoretical frameworks such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and trauma-informed care are discussed in relation …

Courtroom To Clinic: Where I Found The Work I Love, Christina Fay Bucarey

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio reflects my journey through the Master of Social Work program, highlighting my growth in clinical practice, policy advocacy, and cultural responsiveness. Drawing from experiences in treatment court, addiction counseling, tribal and non-tribal community contracts, and my generalist- and specialist-year practicum, it demonstrates my application of trauma-informed, evidence-based interventions, including adapted DBT groups within Indigenous communities. Through the lens of the Five Elements of Advanced Integrated Practice, I connect coursework, practicum learning, and professional development, such as my involvement with the NASW board, to show how I’ve developed the competencies required for ethical, effective, and community-centered social work practice.

Master Of Social Work Portfolio, Payten Thistlewaite

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Msw Portfolio: Becoming Political, Stephanie Herther

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio captures my transformation through the University of Montana’s Master of Social Work program, shaped by both academic study and years of living and working abroad in under-resourced communities. Over three years, I have come to see the personal as inseparable from the political, grounding my practice in trauma-informed care, culturally responsive engagement, and the power of narrative-therapy. Guided by systems theory, attachment theory, and Critical Race Theory, I have woven together direct practice, community work, and policy advocacy to challenge inequities and honor the dignity of those most impacted by them. Each competency reflects not only skill development …

Msw Professional Portfolio-Glue Players, Chelsea Lucille Solberg

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.