Digital Commons Network^™

Mapping And Examining Recreation In Indian Creek, Bears Ears National Monument, Elisabeth Currit, Neil Hansen, Brigham Daniels, Alex Long, Katy Merritt, Mary Proteau, Sam Spackman

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Recreation is growing in desert areas of the western United States, and mapping the expansion of these activities is vital to management and conservation efforts. Desert ecosystems provide many critical ecosystem services, including carbon storage, and the growing popularity of outdoor recreation in Western US desert regions poses a threat to these ecosystems. Unregulated recreational activities can harm desert plant and soil health, including the functioning of biological soil crusts. This research project focuses on mapping several types of popular recreational activities in order to monitor and evaluate the impact of these activities within the Indian Creek areas of Bears …

Multi-Point Fabrication Of Terahertz Metal Mesh Filters, Jared E. Payne, Brad Ferguson, Christian Chinh, Gregory N. Nielson, Stephen M. Schultz

Utah Space Grant Consortium

A metal mesh filter is fabricated by creating metallic squares on a dielectric substrate. This capacitive metallic filter is fabricated using direct write laser ablation consisting of a femtosecond laser in combination with a high numerical aperture objective. A multipoint fabrication approach is employed by using a holographic beam splitter element to split the beams into several identical gaussian beams. The transmission and reflection characteristics are discussed.

Surface Impact Dissociation Of Neutralized Ions: Studying Unimolecular Gas-Phase Reactions In The Context Of Cassini Inms Data, Dallin Tyger, Brandon Judd, Elijah Pehrson, Noah Durst, Daniel E. Austin

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Analysis of spaceborne analytes using mass spectrometers is complicated by hypervelocity impacts (v > 6 km s^-1), which induce dissociative scattering of analyte molecules and obscure compositional signatures. However, neutral dissociative scattering remains poorly understood due to the lack of controlled experimental data. To address this gap, we are developing the Surface Impact Neutralization Dissociation Instrument (SINDI), a laboratory platform that reproduced and analyzes these processes under controlled conditions. SINDI implements a two-stage experiment. First, mass-selected ions are accelerated onto a gold-plated surface to induce neutralization and dissociation. Second, following dissociation, the resulting neutral fragments are adsorbed onto …

The Impact Of Fellowship Training On Peer-Reviewed Publication Productivity In Academic Anesthesiologists As Evaluated By The H-Index, Acsa M. Zavala, Jagtar Singh Heir, Juan P. Cata, Lei Feng, Jose M. Soliz

Advances in Cancer Education and Quality Improvement

Background: The effect of anesthesiology fellowships on scholarly contributions has been minimally studied. In this study we analyzed differences in h-index between fellowship-trained and non–fellowship-trained anesthesiologists, as well as by type of fellowship, academic rank, and years in practice.

Methods: All anesthesiologists on staff between September 1, 2021, and August 31, 2022, were included in this study. The variables collected were fellowship training status, h-index, total number of publications, years in practice, academic rank, and years at the institution. For analysis, the anesthesiologists were divided into 2 groups: those with fellowship training and those without.

Results: Among 78 anesthesiologists, 40 …

Ultra-Low Power Adcs For Charge Detection Mass Spectrometry Of Martian Dust, Eric Christie, Wood Chiang

Utah Space Grant Consortium

This paper presents a complete system integration strategy for a proven Charge Detection Mass Spectrometry (CDMS) instrument designed to analyze charged dust particles on Mars. To enable deployment in a power-constrained rover environment, an ultra-low supply voltage (ULV) analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is required. ADC architectures operating below 0.21 V are compared to identify candidates that meet the system's stringent power and performance demands. A voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO)-based ADC is proposed and for ULV operation. Circuit-level implementations of VCO topologies are designed and evaluated in the TSMC 28 nm CMOS process using Cadence simulations. Based on simulation results, a VCO-CDAC topology …

A Pressure-Based Estimate Of Multi-Orifice Synthetic Jet Performance, Rhett T. Parry, Tim Berk

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Multiphase turbulence is a ubiquitous mechanism that drives the motion of fluid and particulate. In order to understand the behavior of this complex mechanism, it is critical to build facilities where driving parameters can be studies. Various flow actuators are used to drive turbulence, but we use synthetic jets for their geometric customizability and wide range operating parameters. Many studies based on synthetic jets focus on characterizing velocity while omitting the connection to turbulence. Additionally, most work in the existing literature is tied to the non-dimensional numbers but can obscure the limitations regarding both size and allowable driving conditions of …

A Methodology To Quantify The Shielding Efficiency Of Novel Radiation Shielding Materials, Jenny R. Whiteley, Tyler Heggenes, J.R. Dennison

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Radiation shielding is a common method used to protect spacecraft from the radiation prevalent in the space environment. A current research area of interest is Z-graded shielding, which is radiation shielding composed of various materials layered together based off of the properties associated with the material's atomic number, Z. This approach has the potential to produce new shielding materials that would be lighter and more compact than traditional shielding materials. Utah State University's Material Physics Group developed an experimental setup and analysis methodology to quantify how effectively novel shielding materials blocked beta and gamma radiation. The materials' effectiveness, termed shielding …

The Trgb–Sbf Project: Creating A New Distance Ladder With Surface Brightness Fluctuations, Mikaela Cowles, Joseph B. Jensen, Sydney Holt

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Many current observational methods to measure the expansion rate of the universe (H₀) rely on the same zero-point calibrations. Values of the Hubble constant derived from those local calibrations are in conflict with the predicted value of H₀ from the successful ΛCDM cosmological model, resulting in the "Hubble tension." In order to decrease systematic uncertainties, and to address this tension, we have created a new and independent sequence of distance measurement techniques. We have used James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) tip of the red giant branch (TRGB) distances to 14 giant elliptical galaxies that we used …

Far-Field Uav-Enabled Antenna Radiation Pattern Mapping, Jack Fernald

Utah Space Grant Consortium

This paper presents an overview of an research project at Weber State University (WSU) focused on developing a UAV-based system for measuring far-field radiation patterns of physically large antennas operating in the High-Frequency (HF, 3–30 MHz) and Very-High-Frequency (VHF, 30–300 MHz) ranges. Leveraging commercially available unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) components, software-defined radios (SDRs), open-source software tools, and advanced simulation environments, this project aims to create a cost-effective, scalable measurement solution that addresses the logistical challenges of traditional methods. By enabling autonomous three-dimensional radiation mapping of operational antennas in open-field environments, the proposed system refines industry practices and expands our understanding …

High-Frequency Satellite Imagery Reveals Spatial And Temporal Dynamics Of Algal Blooms On Utah Lake, Kaylee B. Tanner

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Utah Lake is a large, shallow freshwater lake in Utah Valley, Utah, USA. It faces a number of water quality issues, with one of the most significant being the occurrence of harmful algal blooms (HABS) that impair its ecological health and economic value. We use data from the Sentinel 2 mission to investigate spatial and temporal bloom dynamics in four different regions of the lake. We leverage the frequent, spatially comprehensive satellite data to analyze the frequency, intensity, and duration of algal blooms on Utah Lake, and find that the southern end of the lake typically experiences the most intense …

Reconstruction Of Cad Models Into Analysis-Ready Single Trimmed Surfaces With Aerospace Applications, Rebecca Rasmussen, Royce Pablo Harline, Kendrick Shepherd

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Classical methods by which computer-aided design (CAD) geometries are represented for both design and analysis involve meshing. However, the current process of converting a CAD model into an analysis-suitable surface mesh takes a significant amount of time and labor [23, 4, 18], results in a faceted representation of the original smooth geometry, and generates representations that are prohibitively expensive for use in high-order explicit dynamics computations [35, 9].

This research focuses on accurately and efficiently rebuilding given CAD surfaces or meshes, such as shell-like components of aeronautical structures or automotive vehicles, into smooth, single trimmed spline surface approximations (rather than …

Production Of Iron Powder From Lunar Regolith By Carbonyl Iron Refining, Jason Sheets

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Carbonyl Iron Refining (CIR) is a promising method of iron production to be used in a lunar environment. Commercially, CIR operates at pressures > 200 bar, which is a challenge in a lunar landscape due to vessel weight constraints. Here we explore the feasibility of CIR operations at pressures < 60 bar in order to optimize the process for largescale lunar iron production. Many different forms of tests were conducted, and it was concluded that it is possible for CIR to perform at a lower pressure maximum. However, further experimentation and development needs to be perused in order to optimize the parameters to justify the processes usage.

Scalable Compliant Louvres Manufactured Via Sheet Lamination, Tyler R. Stevens, Benjamin Allen, Garrett Graham, Nathan B. Crane

Utah Space Grant Consortium

As space missions increase, relying on Earth-based supply chains for spacecraft components becomes increasingly unsustainable. In-Space Manufacturing (ISM) offers an alternative, yet many fabrication methods depend on gravity, utilize hazardous materials, require large amounts of energy, or introduce thermal challenges in spacecraft environments. Sheet materials show strong potential for ISM because they store and transport efficiently, offer functionalization options, and provide robust in-plane properties. However, most sheet-based manufacturing techniques require bulky equipment ill-suited for on-orbit deployment. Sheet Lamination (ShL), an underutilized additive manufacturing process that bonds and cuts thin sheets to create near-net-shape parts, presents a compact and scalable alternative, …

Challenges And Opportunities Of Agricultural Research In The Sudan, Allam Ahmed

Journal of African Policy Studies

National research institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are under increasing governmental pressure to make direct and visible contributions to national research and development strategies. Although Sudan is a predominately agricultural economy, crop productivity is extremely low and does not exceed thirty percent of the level attained in research farms. The aim of this paper is to develop a framework for analyzing problems and identifying opportunities to strengthen African research institutions' role in development-oriented research. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to critically evaluate the implementation capacity constraints, which exist in formal agricultural research, and the impact this has on …

Book Reviews, Ogwo Jombo Umeh, Abraham Mbachirin

Journal of African Policy Studies

No abstract provided.

Sustainable Agricultural Development In Nigeria: A Question Of Biotechnology, Environmental Conservation, Or Indigenous Knowledge?, Emmanuel O. Oritsejafor

Journal of African Policy Studies

Nigeria, like most developing countries, depends on agriculture primarily for subsistence and export revenues. However, Nigeria is confronted with food security challenges. Several factors have contributed to this problem, such as demographic trends, crude farming methods, deforestation, the oil boom and public policies that are not consistent with the socio-economic and political realities of the state.

Given these challenges, this inquiry will examine the socio-economic and environmental implications of recent recommendations by development agencies such as the United Nations Development Agency (UNDP), which has prescribed the use of biotechnology to address Africa's food security problems. This recommendation appears to be …

Solvent Variability With Gold And Silver Nanoparticle Production Using Reverse Micelles, Cameron Ashton, Wendy E. Schatzberg, Samuel Tobler

Utah Space Grant Consortium

The synthesis of nanoparticle using reverse micelles is increasing in versatility, popularity, and effectivity. Nanoparticles have unique characteristics including a strong antimicrobial trait that can be effective and sterilizations and decomposition of microbes. Gold and silver have been effective as the ions used in the synthesis of such nanoparticles and have been successful for testing different solvent concentrations and production. Research has shown that different structures and sizes of nanoparticles are efficient at accomplishing different objective, however, trends show that the smaller the nanoparticle, the more efficient a nanoparticle is at fighting microbes.

Predicting Residual Stress Of High Entropy Allow Si-Hf-Cr-Ta-Zr For Directed Energy Deposition 3d Printing, J. Barton, Davin Stevens, Yanqing Su

Utah Space Grant Consortium

• Directed energy deposition (DED) is a developing additive manufacturing branch finding applications in aerospace, nuclear, and automotive industries.

Working On An Incubator To Image Cancer Cells: Development Of A Custom 3d-Printed Imaging Incubator For Refractive Index-Based Cell Classification, Spencer Brown, Vincent M. Rossi

Utah Space Grant Consortium

This project aims to develop a compact, 3D-printed incubation chamber for live-cell imaging using Quantitative Phase Imaging (QPI), a technique that can distinguish cancerous cells from healthy ones based on refractive index. The chamber was designed in OnShape and built using FDM 3D printing, offering rapid prototyping, customizability, and cost efficiency.

While print failures and material limitations present challenges, the current design provides a stable, optically clear environment compatible with digital holography. The system is intended for 24–48 hour imaging experiments, with future work focusing on capturing differences in refractive index between healthy and cancerous cells.

This approach could support …

Astrometric Measurements Of Wds 12281-4448 Stf 1645 Ab, Millie Christensen, Elizabeth Willden

Utah Space Grant Consortium

This project focuses on a binary star system which has been observed for over 200 years, however, inconsistencies in older data make it of interest for further study.

Understanding The Barriers To Hybrid Control, Jared Coen, Stephen Whitmore

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Hybrid rockets combine a solid fuel with a liquid or gaseous oxidizer, offering a balance of safety, simplicity, and throttleability not found in solid or liquid systems. Their modular design and low cost make them attractive for academic, commercial, and small-space applications. However, challenges in dynamic control—such as O/F shift, delayed system response, and variable injector behavior—limit their precision and practical use in responsive missions.

Searching For Something In Nothing: Density Analysis Of Cosmic Void Fn2, Jace Dixon, James Howick, Taylor Tenbrink, Christian Draper

Utah Space Grant Consortium

We have begun a search for emission line galaxies in the center of the void FN2 using new software developed by our group. We are using images taken in three redshifted narrow-band filters. If a galaxy has strong emission lines and is far enough away the Galaxy will be brighter in one or two of the filters. By comparing the galaxies brightness in the three filters we can find galaxies which are possibly in the center of the void. In our preliminary study, we created a catalogue of any interesting objects that appear in the birhgtness comparison images.

Educational And Engaging Scientific Outreach: A Dinosaur Case Study, Auriana Dunn, Holly Gerber, Brandon Bennett, Sharol Gauthier, Greta Geary

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Clear communication of scientific findings is critical in academic settings. However, it is just as important, if not more so, in settings where researchers are trying to educate the public. Through engaging and entertaining methods, science communication can effectively share advancements from the scientific community with the general public.

Low-Cost Ai-Powered Biometric Monitoring For Astronaut Health: A Feasibility Study Using Open-Source Models, Tawananyasha Dzenga

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Context: Human spaceflight presents unique physiological challenges (microgravity, radiation, isolation) requiring careful health monitoring for mission success. Key systems affected include cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neurovestibular. Continuous monitoring is vital, especially for long -duration missions.

Unlocking Pl Ddr Memory On The Rfsoc 4x2, Isaac Garfield

Utah Space Grant Consortium

CASPER provides open-source tools for FPGA (a configurable integrated circuit) design for radio telescopes worldwide

Experimental Workflow: Assessing Lead (Pb) Cytotoxicity In Vaginal Epithelial Cells, Alex Grimm, Sagan Wilkinson

Utah Space Grant Consortium

The vaginal epithelium is a highly absorptive mucosal barrier that plays a vital role in defending against pathogens and maintaining reproductive health. However, its permeability also raises concern about the bioaccumulation of potentially harmful elements (PHEs), particularly in relation to products designed for intimate use. Recent studies have identified the presence of heavy metals, including lead (Pb), in a wide range of cosmetic and hygiene products such as tampons. Lead is a well-known toxic element that interferes with essential cellular functions, mimicking biologically important metals like zinc, calcium, and iron.

This study investigates the absorption of lead by an immortalized …

Investigation Of Changes In Emission Lines From Galaxies Through Time, Chloe Guerrero, Christian Draper

Utah Space Grant Consortium

We investigate the percentage of galaxies with strong emission lines at increasing redshift. From the Sloan Digital Sky Survey we selected 792,392 galaxies at varying redshifts, z. We grouped the total number of galaxies by absolute magnitude, compared them with those that had strong Hα, OIII, and other relevant emission lines, and looked for the trend of shifting emission lines with z. We found a general trend of a drop in the percentage of galaxies with strong emission lines from z = 0.2 to z = 0.5, spanning from about 2.5 Gyr to 5Gyr ago. We are not sure of …

Computational Analysis Of Molten Salt Eutectics, Sarah Heywood

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs) operate at higher temperatures and lower pressures than traditional Light Water Reactors (LWRs), making them up to 20% more efficient, inherently safer, and more compact. Furthermore, all nuclear waste isotopes are reusable, making them a promising candidate for clean, sustainable energy.

Optimizing Continuous Wave Nd:Yvo4 Laser Performance For Longwave Infrared Generation, Benjamin J. Holt, Micah C. Laing, York E. Young

Utah Space Grant Consortium

The Photonic Fury research group is working to create a nonlinear optical (NLO) system to scan human tissue for early warning signs of disease.

Data Reduction And Photometry For Surface Brightness Fluctuation Measurements, Sydney Holt, Mikaela Cowles, Joseph Jensen

Utah Space Grant Consortium

Among the most pressing issues in modern cosmology is the Hubble tension, in which early-universe measurements of H₀ differ from late-universe measurements by > 5σ. This tension, now verging on crisis, implies continued systematic errors in either early or late universe measurement, or deeper issues with the widely accepted ΛCDM model of cosmology. To reduce systematic uncertainty, we have been developing an independent distance ladder relying on surface brightness fluctuations (SBF) and tip of the red-giant-branch (TRGB) star calibrators with data from the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) and James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Before distance measurements can be …