Digital Commons Network^™

Evaluation Of The Physical And Mechanical Properties Of Hardwoods And Softwood Cross Laminated Timber, Richard Olakunle Omotayo

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis is focused on the evaluation of cross laminated timber made from southern pine lumber and low-grade hardwood species (which included red oak, sweetgum, and yellow poplar) growing in the southeastern part of the United States. The properties of interest were density, modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR) and dynamic modulus of elasticity (dMOE). Mechanical testing using static bending technique was used to determine MOE and MOR and non-destructive technique (NDT) was used to predict dMOE. The results from mechanical testing showed that over 98% of low-grade hardwood CLT samples exceeded 8300 MPa. This proved the suitability …

Deep Learning - Based Automated Detection And Classification Of Foreign Materials In Poultry Using Color And Hyperspectral Imaging, Rohini Maram

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis explores the use of Deep learning for detection and classification of small foreign materials (FMs) in poultry meat using color and hyperspectral imagery (HSI). The study employs You only look once (YOLO) object detection models on color images for precise localization, and one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D CNN), two-dimensional convolutional neural network (2D CNN) was used on HSI (600 – 1700 nm) for classification. Twelve different FMs commonly known as polymers including PVC, PET, LDPE and HDPE, were examined using 52 color and 52 hyperspectral images. Four YOLO models (v5x, v7x, v8x, v10x) were implemented, trained, tested and …

Innovative Methyl Bromide Alternatives: Efficacy Of Acetic Acid Coated Ham Nets And Carboxymethyl Cellulose Films In Inhibiting Mite Infestations On Dry-Cured Ham, Sawyer Wyatt Smith

Theses and Dissertations

Dry-cured hams may become infested with Tyrophagus putrescentiae (ham mites) during the aging process. Traditionally, methyl bromide (MB) fumigation has been used to control these infestations, but its phase-out due to environmental concerns has prompted the need for alternative methods. This study evaluated the effectiveness of acetic acid-coated ham nets and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)-based edible films with propylene glycol (PG) in mitigating mite infestations. Laboratory trials assessed the impact of these treatments on mite orientation, reproduction, infestation rates, and sensory quality. Results indicate that CMC films were effective at controlling mite growth and reproduction with minimal sensory impact. In contrast, …

On Topological Measures And Network Vulnerability Patterns: A Review And Comparative Analysis, Saviz Saei

Theses and Dissertations

Despite much hope for climate change to slow down or even reverse, younger generations face a future overshadowed by extreme events. The indisputable reality is that unless the United Nations establishes comprehensive and sustained climate justice policies, children today will experience five times more extreme events than those that took place a century ago. On Monday, July 3rd of 2023, an unprecedented peak in global temperatures was documented, marking the highest global temperature ever recorded, as the U.S. National Centers for Environmental Prediction reported. These increasing temperatures indicate the ongoing and intensifying phenomenon of climate change, which amplifies the frequency …

Evaluation And Characterization Of Two Capacitive Sensors For Cotton Moisture Measurement In Static And Dynamic Modes For Real-Time Use In Cotton Gin, Sushma Perati

Theses and Dissertations

Two capacitive sensors, a commercial FP-32C and a custom design capacitor plate were evaluated for real-time cotton moisture content (MC%) measurement in ginning environment. The sensors were able to measure MC ranges of 3.56%–19.7% and 4.56%–21.04% MC for FP-32C and custom capacitor pate, respectively. In dynamic mode, the ranges were 4.9%–14.5% and 4.9%–14.7% respectively. Results showed that measurements of both sensors had strong correlations with results obtained from oven method. A comparison of moisture content measurement methods using a moisture balance (M5 Thermo 163M,) and oven method was conducted with the result showing that Lint-Only samples were the most closely …

Improved Vector Pruning For Partially Observable Markov Decision Processes, Thomas Jonathan Bowman

Theses and Dissertations

Exact dynamic programming algorithms for planning problems that are represented as partially observable Markov decision processes rely on a subroutine that removes, or ``prunes", dominated vectors from sets of vectors that represent piecewise-linear and convex value functions. The classic vector pruning subroutine solves one linear program per vector, where the number of variables is equal to the size of the state space and the number of constraints is equal to the number of vectors shown so far to be undominated. Thus, its scalability is limited not only by the number of linear programs it solves, but especially by their size. …

Investigation Of Coupled Fluid-Structure Interactions In Supersonic Flows, Seshendra Palakurthy

Theses and Dissertations

The skin panels used in high-speed flights are exposed to various types of loads, such as inertial, elastic, and aerodynamic loads. In addition, oblique shock impingement can cause flow separation and unsteady aerodynamic loading, which can reduce vehicle performance and result in acoustic noise and viscous heating. These loads, when combined, can result in a complex dynamic response, such as flutter. Flutter is characterized by sustained unsteadiness or structural vibrations. Although flutter might not be immediately harmful, it can lead to fatigue failure of the structural components. A vast amount of literature already exists on the panel flutter induced by …

Review Of Inverter Functionality Requirements In Ieee 1547 For Voltage Fault Ride-Through, Tyler Coby Jonathan May

Theses and Dissertations

The introduction of Distributed Energy Resources such as energy storage systems, solar, and wind create system dynamics which modern electric grids cannot reliably handle in such large quantities without properly coordinated protections. One such tool is the concept of Fault Ride Through, which allows a system to continue operation during a long-term minor or short-term major disturbance. Standards are in place to control and monitor the operation and recovery of this capability but are meant to be minimum or maximum requirements. Since these standards must be used nationally, or sometimes internationally, they tend to be left very flexible. The rise …

Discrete Particle Dynamics Models: Computational Aspects And Applications, Yuxuan Wu

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

Particle dynamics considers discrete particles as Newtonian point masses in diverse domains such as, pedestrian particles in pedestrian movement modeling and molecules in material science modeling. These dynamic modeling approaches share a commonality in computational approach where a series of ordinary differential equations are solved for the particle’s motion and equilibrium under active interactions and boundary conditions. In general, particle dynamics approaches are computationally intensive and address problems that require a vast parameter design space. In this dissertation, a computational paradigm is developed for large-scale particle dynamics modeling and demonstrated by three process design applications, (a) infection risk modeling for …

Decision Making And Performance Optimization In Distributed Cyber Physical Networks, Md Sahabul Hossain

Electrical and Computer Engineering ETDs

Cyber-Physical Systems (CPSs) integrate computation, networking, and physical processes, while Cyber-Physical Networks (CPNs) enable communication and coordination among components. With advances in IoT and smart devices, CPSs are increasingly vital for applications such as smart grids, industrial automation, and autonomous vehicles. This dissertation explores decision making and performance optimization in Distributed Cyber-Physical Networks (DCPNs), focusing on efficiency, reliability, decentralization, and security. Using network economic theories (e.g., game theory, contract theory) and machine learning (e.g., Reinforcement Learning, Federated Learning), it addresses key problems: 1) a cost-effective positioning system with Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs) and RL, 2) energy-efficient task offloading in Multi-access …

Eco-Friendly Polyester Vitrimer: Enhanced Stretchability, Self-Healing, And Reprocessability Through Dynamic Covalent Crosslinks Via Melt-Polycondensation, Saiprasanna Neerukonda

Electronic Theses & Dissertations

Dynamic covalent polymer networks offer new possibilities for designing sustainable polyester vitrimers owing to their excellent reprocessability and malleability; however, maintaining the high performance of the adaptable network with amazing healing properties remains a challenge. Therefore, the proposed approach considers the one-pot synthetic strategy to fabricate highly stretchable polyester vitrimer networks via condensation polymerization of different aliphatic diacids which are glutaric acid, pimelic acid, azelaic acid with 1,4-butanediol in the presence of glycerol and dithiodicarboxylic acids as the curing agent and dynamic covalent crosslinkers. The synthesized polyester network with simultaneous disulfide metathesis and carboxylate transesterification exhibited vitrimeric behavior which can …

Flourine Free, Bio-Based Antismudge Polyurethane Coating With Enhanced Flame-Retardancy, Rutu Patel

Electronic Theses & Dissertations

Antismudge coating materials are generally synthesized using petroleum-based polyols and fluorinated compounds, which are harmful to the environment and human health. Thus, researchers are more inclined to develop polyurethane (PU) coating from bio-based polyols and fluorine-free materials. Here, silicone-containing diol was used with soybean oil polyol (SOP) to produce PU coating. The chemical inertness to acid, base, and salt, along with the non-stick properties of silicone, would help achieve the desired properties of the anti-smudge PU coating. Metal (stainless steel) and wood coupons (oak wood) were coated with this synthesized coating material and tested to study chemical resistance along with …

Effect Of Nitrogen And Phosphorus In Rigid Polyurethane Foams Synthesized From Bio Derived Polyol, Jonsi Patel

Electronic Theses & Dissertations

Rigid polyurethane foams (PUFs) are widely used as thermal insulators due to their excellent mechanical properties and low thermal conductivity. However, their dependence on petrochemical-derived polyols and inherent flammability poses environmental and safety challenges. This study investigates the synthesis of bio-based rigid PUFs using canola oil polyol (COP), a sustainable alternative to petrochemical polyols. The research explores the incorporation of nitrogen and phosphorus-based reactive flame retardants, including diethyl phosphate (DEP), melamine (MA), and a novel compound (TDHTPP) synthesized from cyanuric chloride, diethyl phosphate, and vanillin, to enhance both flame retardancy and mechanical properties. Preliminary results demonstrate that PUFs containing 15gm …

Fictional And Historical Narratives Of African American Soldiers Of Wwii, Abigail Rae Stewart

Honors Theses

This thesis examines the experiences of African American soldiers during World War II through the dual lenses of oral histories and fictionalized accounts, arguing that both are essential to fully understanding their multifaceted journeys at home and abroad. Oral histories provide direct, personal narratives from veterans themselves, capturing their voices, emotions, and reflections on the discrimination, camaraderie, and resilience that defined their wartime and postwar lives. These firsthand accounts offer invaluable insights into the structural realities of systemic racism within the military and society, as well as the personal sacrifices these soldiers made in the name of a country that …

Study The Effects Of Temperature On Laser Cladding Process With Two Different Geometries Using Comsol Multiphysics, Luban Hamdy Hameed Al-Qudsy

AUIQ Technical Engineering Science

Due to the advancement of laser material processing and the high-demand of high-quality processing, COMSOL Multiphyiscs emerges as a powerful solution to the problem, offering multiple simulation in virtual environment with both 2D and 3D geometries. In this work, we aim to study the effects of thermal properties on the laser cladding using both 2D and 3D geometries with Nickle and Copper as promising candidates for rapid processing of materials. The work was done on a personal computer using commercially-available package of COMSOL Multiphysics 5.0. Results shows a notable increment of heat affected zone when the laser power increased. Additionally, …

Disturbance Observer-Based Control Schemes For Off-Grid Renewable Energy-Based Distributed Generation Systems Feeding Unbalanced And Nonlinear Loads, Samantha Sasi Stephen

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

This thesis addresses two critical issues in Renewable Energy-based Distributed Generation (REDG) systems that operate autonomously to supply unbalanced and nonlinear loads. The first issue concerns voltage regulation in grid-forming three-phase Pulse Width Modulation Voltage Source Inverters (PWM VSIs), which convert DC power generated by Distributed Generators (DGs) into three-phase AC power. These inverters often face challenges when feeding unbalanced and nonlinear loads, leading to poor voltage quality. To address this, a voltage controller was developed for grid-forming three-phase PWM VSIs to deliver symmetrical and high-quality voltage to such loads. The proposed controller integrates a Disturbance Observer (DO) into a …

Adding In Commentary: One Word-Hoard, Two Periods, Three Clusters, Four Dimensions: A Yeats Knowledge Site, Warwick Gould

International Yeats Studies

No abstract provided.

Evaluating The Impact Of Post Discharge Callback On Patients With Copd Exacerbation, Stephanie L. Staten

Dissertations

The purpose of this project was to evaluate the impact of a post-discharge callback within 72 hours of discharge on medication adherence, attendance to post discharge follow up clinic visit, and 30-day readmissions in COPD patients. A secondary purpose was to explore reasons why patients who are discharged with a diagnosis of COPD exacerbation, did or did not adhere to their medications and keep their post-discharge follow up clinic visit during the 30-days following hospital discharge.

Nurse Delegation Decision Making: Impact On Nurse Job Satisfaction, Lynn Carol Parsons

Dissertations

The purpose of this experimental study was to ascertain if a structured educational intervention (versus a mimic intervention) was followed by a statistically significant increase in nurse delegation decision making knowledge and nurse job satisfaction.

Assessing The Reach Of Health Access Resources In Indianapolis For Populations With Low Income, Kyler A. Casbon, Kai J. Gatting, Simran Nadig, Isabella K. Peckinpaugh, Alexandre A. Sauquet, Kourtney A. D. Byrd, Megan E. Conklin, Gicella Garcia, Mitchell L. Struewing, Omolola A. Adeoye-Olatunde

Purdue Journal of Service-Learning and International Engagement

Two public health crises that the United States are contending with are diabetes and the prevalence of opioid overdoses, both of which have a significant impact on communities nationwide. Inequities in social conditions contribute to health disparities amidst these diabetes and opioid overdose public health crises nationally and locally. To address these health inequities in Indianapolis, Indiana, the the Purdue University Center for Health Excellence, Quality and Innovation (CHEQI) shaped relationships through their CHAMP (Community Health Access Model Partnerships) services with local food pantries and homeless shelters, providing Indianapolis residents pre-diabetes screening and resources and convenient access to and education …

Wildlife Ambassadors, Carissa Lukac, Ibrahim Bhutta, Sunishka Deshpande, Amogh Jani

Purdue Journal of Service-Learning and International Engagement

Students at Purdue University are largely unaware of conservation efforts and research being done by both their fellow students and local organizations. This is why under the guidance of our mentor and as a part of the HIFI Lab, our group, the Wildlife Ambassadors, has created a website meant to push ecological efforts at Purdue University. This is done through the use of animal ambassadors, including but not limited to a wolf at Wolf Park, a local organization with which this project has been conducted in correspondence. This website will integrate and display the work of over three dozen other …

Promoting Cultural Belonging Through The Arts: Community Partner Snapshot Of Latino Art Midwest, Kayla Vasilko

Purdue Journal of Service-Learning and International Engagement

Kayla Vasilko just completed her Master’s degree in communication with a focus on semiotics and the impact of higher education on positive social change in the Purdue Graduate School and the PNW Department of Communication and Creative Arts. While earning her degree, she had the opportunity to complete a service-learning project to celebrate Spanish culture through the arts and work the community partner Latino Art Midwest. Latino Art Midwest works to promote understanding of the role of arts and creative expression among Midwestern Latina/o communities. Students can explore their site, “view the art, and interpret the unique qualities of Latina/o …

Crafting The Wings Of Tomorrow's Leaders, Anushka Sharma

Purdue Journal of Service-Learning and International Engagement

SOAR is a social impact initiative I founded in partnership with Big Brothers/Big Sisters Lafayette. We provide novel leadership and character development resources for local Lafayette youth. The motto—engage, uplift, and achieve—speaks to my aims for inspiring the next generation of leaders, within Purdue members and local youth. This reflection essay is an opportunity to express the aims of SOAR, the intentionality behind this initiative, and how I hope to contribute to the development of youth in Lafayette and beyond. Mr. Brennan’s visit is a milestone for SOAR, and having the opportunity to converse with a renowned youth development leader …

Jovial Family Farm Facilitates Intergenerational Learning Opportunities Through Urban Farming, Maera Williams

Purdue Journal of Service-Learning and International Engagement

Maera Williams is a sophomore in Environmental and Ecological Engineering at Purdue University. She joined the Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS) Urban Farming team as a freshman and now serves as project manager of ten undergraduate students collaborating with Jovial Family Farm to design and develop three indoor hydroponics systems for a laboratory space on their property in Broad Ripple, IN. Jovial Family Farm is a nonprofit organization founded by Drs. Bobbie and Brian Jellison with the mission to provide senior citizens, their families, and their communities with meaningful engagement opportunities on an intergenerational scale through urban agricultural activities. …

Wolf Park, Pawsing For Impactful Beginnings: The Role Of Community Engagement And Education In Service-Learning, John W. Robbins, Deniz Eksioglu, Kaushal Patel

Purdue Journal of Service-Learning and International Engagement

Our team’s endeavor, conducted under the guidance of Dr. Kristen Bellisario, encapsulates a service-learning journey with Wolf Park, a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and research of wolves and wildlife. Through immersive experiences, community outreach, and collaborative partnerships, our team sought to amplify public understanding of wildlife conservation and inspire a sense of responsibility among participants. This essay examines the impact of our initiatives on both the community and ourselves, emphasizing the transformative potential of education, engagement, and community partnerships in effecting positive societal change. Our team advocates for sustained support for wildlife conservation efforts and underscore the necessity of …

Empowering Tech Professionals: Mentorship And Interview Preparation In The Face Of Industry Layoffs, Sakhi Aggrawal

Purdue Journal of Service-Learning and International Engagement

In recent years, the Information Technology (IT) industry has witnessed significant turmoil, marked by waves of mass layoffs that have left numerous skilled professionals grappling with job loss and uncertainty. The year 2023 alone saw over 250,000 tech workers in U.S.-based companies lose their livelihoods due to corporate restructuring, with renowned giants like Amazon, Alphabet, Microsoft, and Meta being forced to trim their workforce. This unsettling trend highligts a pressing need to support those affected and empower them to regain stability in their careers.

Against this backdrop, I, an experienced technical program manager and software engineer with a background at …

Editorial, Elizabeth B. Brite

Purdue Journal of Service-Learning and International Engagement

No abstract provided.

Aboard The Giant Clam: Ramon Muzones's Maritime Historicization Of The Nation, Winton Lou G. Ynion

Kritika Kultura

Philippine literature scholarship is currently interested in decentering the discourse of nation-building from the capital to the periphery, but least often is attention given to the very geography that makes these communities marginalized. Habitually, multiculturalism and multilingualism have been convenient explanations for why it is difficult for the Philippines to come up with a “national literature” and a paradigm for imagining a nation. This essay centers on this neglected aspect, casting a novel written by a marginalized author in a vernacular language – the Margosatubig (1946) by Ramon Muzones. Three prime objectives guided the navigation of this paper: (1) to …

Training For Learner-Centered Pedagogy And Curriculum Design Agendain Staff Development For Problem-Based Learning (Pbl), Peter Freebody

Kritika Kultura

No abstract provided.

"Pedagogic Invasion": The Thomasites In Occupied Philippines, Dinah Roma-Sianturi

Kritika Kultura

The early education of the Philippines by American voluntary teachers (the Thomasites) is often hailed as a laudatory project. However, education can be a deceptive gift. The ethnographic writings of the Thomasite teachers, like Mary Fee’s A Woman’s Impressions of the Philippines, reveal that these well-meaning American teachers had their own colonial opinion of their Filipino students. Perhaps unwittingly, the Thomasite teachers were still part of the American colonial education policy. Most especially, the memoir writings reveal a perception of Filipino males as effeminate and childlike, an opinion that did much to legitimize the American colonial mandate.