Digital Commons Network^™

Strontium Isotope Movement Modeling Of Modern And Ancient Megafauna In Alaska, Audrey Rowe

Biological Sciences

Strontium isotope analysis is a technique that can be used to infer the geographic origin of biological materials. The strontium isotope ratios (87Sr/86Sr) of biological tissues can be matched to locations on a modeled strontium geographic distribution (“isoscape”) with similar 87Sr/86Sr. In this dissertation, I measured 87Sr/86Sr and other stable isotopes along the length of a mammoth tusk to model its lifetime movement and infer details about its food sources and nutritional status. I then adapted this modeling method to caribou tooth enamel to compare modern and premodern caribou space use in interior Alaska and built a new 87Sr/86Sr isoscape …

An Analysis Of Vulnerable Road User Crashes In Alaska Using Spatio-Temporal Methods, Santosh Adhikari

Engineering

This study presents a two-part investigation into the spatial patterns of crashes and safety of vulnerable road users (VRUs). VRUs, cyclists and pedestrians in this context, represent approximately 18% of traffic fatalities in Alaska annually. However, existing studies on VRU safety in Alaska are limited and causal factors and effects of safety projects are not well understood making it difficult to implement targeted and strategic approaches to improve VRU safety. To that end, the objectives of this research are two-fold: 1) analyze spatial interactions of VRU crashes involving risk tolerant behaviors; and 2) evaluate the effectiveness of Highway Safety Improvement …

Development Of Low-Profile Wideband Microstrip Antennas For Cubesat Phased-Array Applications, Mitchell R. Hay

Engineering

CubeSat missions rely heavily on effective communication systems in order to transmit and receive large amounts of data quickly and efficiently. The total throughput is limited by the capacity of the channel - a quantity dependent upon the signal quality and bandwidth of the link. Volume and power constraints on a CubeSat impede overall capacity in a fixed bandwidth channel. Phased-array antennas provide a more power efficient solution to improving signal quality by optimizing the spatial properties of the link, rather than broadcasting higher signal power over a broader area through power amplification alone. In order to take advantage of …

Effects Of Vertical Earthquake Component On Columns Of Reinforced Concrete Moment Frames Across Different Seismic Zones, Sujata Neupane

Engineering

This thesis investigates the impact of vertical earthquake ground motion on the seismic performance of reinforced concrete (RC) moment-resisting frames. A 12-story RC moment­ resisting frame, designed in accordance with the NEHRP 2015 seismic provisions for Honolulu, Hawaii, was selected. The building was analyzed using nonlinear time history analysis in OpenSees to capture its seismic response under realistic loading conditions. Earthquake records from four seismically active regions—Kathmandu (Nepal), Anchorage (Alaska), El Centro (California), and Honolulu (Hawaii)—were applied to evaluate the influence of vertical ground motion across different seismic zones. Site-specific amplification and scaling factors were implemented to ensure uniformity in …

Design And Assembly Of A Low-Cost Active Vacuum Insulation Automatic Control System, Micah Vanderhart

Engineering

Vacuum insulated panels (VIPs) are a developing type of insulation that use an airtight volume evacuated of air to achieve thermal resistivity values as high as ten times that of traditional insulation. One of the areas of use for VIPs is the building industry, but adoption is slow due to issues such as air leaks causing panel degradation over time, panel fragility, and the inability to customize VIP dimensions on-site. These issues have the potential to be solved by utilizing active VIPs, which have a vacuum pump permanently connected to them, allowing them to be periodically evacuated. The purpose of …

Hazard Identification And Analysis For Equipment-Related Fatal Incidents In The Us Underground Coal Mining, Ebenezer Kofi Anthony

Engineering

This study investigates equipment-related fatal incidents in U.S. underground coal mining from 1993 to 2023, analyzing trends, causes, and the effectiveness of safety measures. Using data from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), this study examined 205 fatalities linked to continuous miners, shuttle cars, roof bolters, load-haul-dump (LHD) vehicles, longwall systems, and hoisting equipment. A mixed-methods approach combines the quantitative analysis of accident trends with qualitative models, such as Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Bowtie Analysis. The findings revealed that powered haulage and machinery accidents were the leading causes of fatalities, with mechanical failures (40%), human errors …

Genomic Surveillance Of Indian Klebsiella Pneumoniae And Exploration Of Resistance Inhibitors, Abhirami Ks Ms

Theses and Dissertations

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an important ESKAPE pathogen that causes life threatening infections. The strains exhibiting multidrug-resistance (MDR) and hypervirulence are the priority pathogens for which immediate treatment and dissemination prevention strategies are required. To address this, genome profiling was performed to understand the AMR patterns, role of episomes, phages, virulence determinants and its association with sequence types.

The study includes 267 publicly available Indian K. pneumoniae genomes over a period of ten years and four sequenced isolates. Whole genome analysis revealed the widespread presence of diverse β-lactamase genes, with β-lactam resistance being predominant. Genes such as blaCTX-M-15, blaTEM-1B and blaOXA-232 …

An Investigation Of Ichthyophonus Infection Related In-River Mortality In Yukon River Chinook Salmon From Multiple Knowledge Systems: Indigenous, Local, And Western Science, Keith D. Herron

Fisheries

The recent historic low salmon returns in the Yukon River contribute to an ongoing humanitarian crisis for subsistence users and Indigenous Peoples with cultural and well-being ties to salmon. After over a decade of relative calm, the marine parasite Ichthyophonus has undergone a resurgence and is once again infecting Yukon River Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha; king; Taryaqvak; Ggaal; Gath; Łuk choo, hereafter referred to as king salmon) at high rates, with currently unknown consequences for survival of migrating adults. This thesis pairs multiple knowledge systems to assess the prevalence, severity, and impact of Ichthyophonus on adult Yukon River king salmon …

Seasonal Predictability Of Sea Ice And Boreal Fire In Alaska, Cecilia Borries-Strigle

Atmospheric Sciences

Attribution studies have shown that warming Arctic temperatures have led to a substantial loss of sea ice and an increase in large wildfire seasons. With wildfire and sea ice decline impacting everyday life by disrupting transportation or damaging infrastructure, for example, a clear need for skillful forecasts at seasonal timescales has emerged. This dissertation addresses critical challenges in seasonal prediction for wildfire and sea ice in Alaska. The first study evaluates outlooks of Buildup Index derived from three seasonal forecasts to assess their skill in predicting fire conditions. Forecast skill is greatest during the wind (April 1-June 10) and drought …

Social Thought From The Ruins: Quixote’S Dinner Party, David A. Westbrook

Books

Through stories, conversations, and essays, this book pursues interwoven critical and philosophical inquiries into the nature of the contemporary in the North Atlantic, asking how are we to live as intellectuals, individually and in community? Social Thought From the Ruins: Quixote’s Dinner Party is the product of informal discussion and academic work done over the last two decades among an international group of social scientists. An extended critique of academic life today and the context of our own thinking, this book interrogates aspects of our modernity, with its pervasive sense of crisis and uncertainty, and the difficulty of thinking clearly …

Exploring Longitudinal Stability Of Spatiotemporal Sequential Patterns By Means Of Autoencoder Schemes For Eeg Based Personal Identification, Muhammed E. Oztemel

LSU Doctoral Dissertations

Robust personal identification remains a critical and challenging task in the digital era. Electroencephalography (EEG) offers a unique biometric modality that captures individual brain dynamics through complex neural signals. This dissertation proposes autoencoder (AE) based feature extraction and subject identification through these features. EEG recordings are first transformed into topographic maps to represent spatial brain activity. Consecutive topomaps are then concatenated to capture temporal transitions across frames. Convolutional autoencoders (CAEs) are used to learn spatial and temporal patterns, while domain-adaptive AEs are designed to model evoked potential based responses. Additionally, self-attention mechanism is incorporated to enhance feature representation. To analyze …

Performance Analysis Of Pem Fuel Cells Via Puma Optimizer With The Aid Of Practical Verifications, Hossamm Ashraf, Sameh O. Abdellatif, Mahmoud M. Elkholy \, Attia A. El-Fergany

Electrical Engineering

This manuscript presents a novel application of the recently developed Puma Optimizer (PO) for identifying the unknown parameters in Mann’s model, which is widely used for characterizing the behavior of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs). The proposed PO-based methodology is rigorously evaluated using three test cases. One test case involves experimental I–V measurements under various operating conditions from a commercial PEMFC stack, the Horizon H-100 (100 W), which was assembled and tested in the laboratory. The other two cases are established benchmark PEMFC systems, the Ballard Mark V 5 kW and BCS 500 W units. Comprehensive statistical analyses over …

Multi-Layered Framework For Llm Hallucination Mitigation In High-Stakes Applications: A Tutorial, Sachin Hiriyanna, Wenbing Zhao

Electrical and Computer Engineering Faculty Publications

Large language models (LLMs) now match or exceed human performance on many open-ended language tasks, yet they continue to produce fluent but incorrect statements, which is a failure mode widely referred to as hallucination. In low-stakes settings this may be tolerable; in regulated or safety-critical domains such as financial services, compliance review, and client decision support, it is not. Motivated by these realities, we develop an integrated mitigation framework that layers complementary controls rather than relying on any single technique. The framework combines structured prompt design, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) with verifiable evidence sources, and targeted fine-tuning aligned with domain truth …

Receiver Function Imaging Of The Mantle Transition Zone Beneath The East Sayan Mountains And Adjacent Area In Central Asia: Implications For Lithospheric Drip And Intraplate Cenozoic Volcanism, Yangyang Liao, Kelly H. Liu, Stephen S. Gao

Geosciences and Geological and Petroleum Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

To provide constraints on the formation mechanisms of intracontinental volcanisms and intriguing lithospheric thickness variations in the East Sayan Mountains and surrounding areas, we stack P-to-s receiver functions to image the 410-km and 660-km discontinuities. Mantle transition zone (MTZ) thickening observed in a continuous area is attributable to ancient slab remnants, and Cenozoic volcanisms in the peripheral area can be explained by slab dehydration. The thinning of the MTZ in the Tuva-Mongolian Massif can be explained by mantle upwelling branches induced by slab subduction. Our results reveal an approximately circular area in the MTZ that is significantly thicker than usual, …

The Silent Epidemic: Equipment Maintenance Failures And Patient Outcomes In Ghana's Healthcare System, Ramseyer Adekorang Asamoah, Celene Dzreke, Evans Dzreke, David Kanzin

Health & Biomedical Sciences Faculty Publications

Broken tools indicate a broken system. This new study reveals how medical equipment failures destroy Ghana's public hospitals, turning life-saving technologies into silent murderers that disproportionately affect rural areas. Moving beyond technical diagnostics, we study the cascading systemic failures, chronic underfunding, critical staff shortages, and fragmented supply chains that leave 40% of vital equipment, such as ventilators, MRI scanners, and dialysis machines, inoperable at any given time. We quantify the devastating human toll through rigorous mixed-methods analysis of equipment downtime records across ten regional hospitals (2018-2023) and profound narratives from 50 frontline stakeholders, doctors forced to improvise without working incubators, …

Understanding Salt Stress In Watermelon: Impacts On Plant Performance, Adaptive Solutions, And Future Prospects, Sukhmanjot Kaur, Milena Maria Tomaz De Oliveira, Amita Kaundal

Plants, Soils and Climate Student Research

Soil salinity stress, intensified by extreme weather patterns, significantly threatens global watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum & Nakai] production. Watermelon, a moderately salt-sensitive crop, exhibits reduced germination, stunted growth, and impaired fruit yield and quality under saline conditions. As freshwater resources decline and agriculture’s dependency on irrigation leads to soil salinization, we need sustainable mitigation strategies for food security. Recent advances highlight the potential of using salt-tolerant rootstocks and breeding salt-resistant watermelon varieties as long-term genetic solutions for salinity. Conversely, agronomic interventions such as drip irrigation and soil amendments provide practical, short-term strategies to mitigate the impact of salt …

Small Meat Processor Needs Are Similar Across Region, Jordan C. Wicks, Alexis Wivell, Thomas Archibald, David Gerrard

Journal of Extension

This needs-based assessment provides insight into the challenges of small meat processors in two regions of the US. On-line surveys were provided to processors and despite regional differences, data show approximately 70% of processors in each state find retention of skilled labor the greatest challenge in maintaining current levels of operation and impede future growth. These findings suggest educational and certification programing may help improve small processor viability and mitigate local food security concerns. Given the disparity in animal production and livestock availability between these diverse states but similarity in responses, we posit this information is translatable across the US.

Transforming Text To Images: Prompt Engineering Principles For Generative Ai Use In Extension, Paul Hill, Xue A. Dong, Aubree L. Miller

Journal of Extension

Generative AI (GenAI) systems facilitate the creation of visual images by utilizing extensive datasets to interpret text-based instructions. Effective prompt engineering is essential for optimizing the output of AI-generated images. This article examines various GenAI systems and their functionalities, explores text-to-image prompt engineering principles and their application in Extension work, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of visual content creation with respect to educational materials, data visualization, and promotional content. The article also provides guidance and examples to assist Extension professionals in leveraging GenAI for improved communication and engagement. Recommendations include crafting detailed prompts and continuously refining them for desired results, …

Unlocking Professional Success: The Power Of Workforce Resilience & Cooperative Extension, Rachel Brauner, Andrew Bronson Crocker, Lakshmi Mahadevan, L. Chris Plein

Journal of Extension

OneOp, a virtual professional development platform dedicated to bolstering the Department of Defense Military Family Readiness System, offers valuable insights into strategies that Cooperative Extension can adopt to enhance workforce resilience. Workforce resilience refers to the capacity of employees to effectively navigate challenging circumstances, cope with stress, adapt to new conditions, and sustain motivation within their work environment. An assessment based on the OneOp webinar series on resiliency delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic identifies best practices that Cooperative Extension can employ to impart essential resilience skills to both individuals and service providers, contributing to a more resilient and adaptable workforce.

Facilitating Farmer-To-Farmer Elearning: An Evaluation Of Climate And Wildfires Online Courses In California, Natalia Pinzon, Caitlin Brimm

Journal of Extension

This study assesses the effectiveness of two online courses tailored for farmers and ranchers in California, with a particular focus on the role of farmer-to-farmer pedagogies. Utilizing live sessions, a social-learning platform, and multimedia content, we draw insights from engagement metrics, lesson and end-of-course survey evaluations, and course outcomes. Key findings highlight the pivotal role of peer interactions, featuring farmers and completion incentives. Based on the findings, we advocate for the integration of farmer-to-farmer education methods within online learning environments to cultivate regional learning networks, and promote the timely exchange and co-creation of agricultural knowledge amid environmental change.

Evaluation Of South Carolina’S Extension And Outreach Agents’ Knowledge Of Harmful Algal Bloom Management And The Impacts Of One-Day Training, George Strickland, Debabrata Sahoo, Michael Vassalos, Heather Nix, Sarah White

Journal of Extension

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) impact livestock producers. Most Extension agents have limited knowledge about HAB management. Our study goal was to assess agent readiness and training on HABs. We used data from in-person surveys of South Carolina (SC) Extension personnel. We examined how training influenced HAB knowledge using pre/post-tests. Training improved agent knowledge of HAB management, but water resource agents learned more. The results of this study can be used to identify Extension training shortfalls and drive policy to better prepare agents throughout the state. Further research should involve prioritizing additional extension topics and assessing knowledge in a similar manner.

Using Economic Data To Understand Local Childcare Challenges, Andrew J. Van Leuven, Tessa Conroy

Journal of Extension

The childcare sector holds vital implications for community development. Overcoming barriers to access and affordability requires a nuanced understanding of this complex sector, a requirement which is further complicated by limited data availability. This paper reviews key data sources and uses historical business data to explore and analyze trends in childcare establishment availability by region. Supplementing the analysis is a discussion of the implications for community economic development Extension professionals, including the importance of data literacy and the need to support local childcare providers.

The Future Intensification Of Hydrological Extremes And Whiplashes In The Contiguous United States Increase Community Vulnerability, Surendra Maharjan, Wenzhao Li, John D. Bolten, Hesham El-Askary

Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science Faculty Articles and Research

Hydroclimatic whiplash rapid shifts between drought and flood poses growing risks to U.S. communities. Here, we assess historical extremes and future projections using a normalized streamflow metric: the annual mean flow’s deviation from the 1981–2020 average, expressed as a fraction of that average. This metric is applied to United States Geological Survey records and Localized Constructed Analogs downscaled projections under Representative Concentration Pathways 4.5 and 8.5. Results reveal sharp regional disparities, with drought deficits exceeding 300% of normal flow during multi-year droughts. By linking hydrologic outcomes with the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Risk Index, we find that counties facing …

Examining Thermal Comfort In Open Spaces In Higher Education Settings In Hot Climate Regions–Mosul As A Case Study, Hiba Al-Yozbakee, Omar Al-Hafith

School of Art, Design and Architecture

Outdoor spaces play a vital role in enriching students’ academic experiences in higher education. While thermal comfort is key to their usability, research remains limited on university open spaces that consider the full academic year and the combined effects of shading and vegetation. This study addresses this gap in a hot-climate context, using Northern Technical University in Iraq as a case study. From October 2023 to May 2024, 874 thermal sensation votes and microclimatic data were gathered across five open spaces with differing vegetation and shading. Employing the adaptive thermal comfort approach, the study assessed users’ thermal perceptions and microclimatic …

Modeling The Effects Of Cyclical Masticatory Forces In A 3d Oral Mucosal Model In Vitro, Samantha Robins, Vehid Salih, Alastair Lomax, Sian Crow, Zoe Brookes, Andrew Foey, Simon A. Whawell

Peninsula Dental School

This study describes the development of a three-dimensional (3D) oral mucosal model (OMM) to investigate how oral tissues respond to masticatory forces. The OMMs replicated key features of human oral mucosa, such as stratified keratinocyte telomerase-immortalized gingival keratinocytes (TIGK) layers and fibroblast-populated collagen matrices. Cyclical mechanical forces (0-10 N) for 2 h applied to the model caused force-dependent changes in the histological structure, including thinning of the epithelium and collagen matrix and cell displacement at higher forces. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) cytotoxicity assays revealed that 10 N forces led to significant cell damage (about 50% cell death) in TIGK monolayers, whereas …

The Shorthorn: August 14, 1970

The Shorthorn Newspaper Collection: 1970s

No abstract provided.

The Shorthorn: July 31, 1970

The Shorthorn Newspaper Collection: 1970s

No abstract provided.

The Shorthorn: June 19, 1970

The Shorthorn Newspaper Collection: 1970s

No abstract provided.

The Shorthorn: July 3, 1970

The Shorthorn Newspaper Collection: 1970s

No abstract provided.

The Shorthorn: May 8, 1970

The Shorthorn Newspaper Collection: 1970s

No abstract provided.