Digital Commons Network^™

Multi-Scale Modeling Of Dna-Templated Aggregates For Excitonic Applications, German Barcenas Moncada

Boise State University Theses and Dissertations

Quantum entanglement occupies a central role in the application of quantum mechanics towards emerging technologies of quantum information systems. Meanwhile, quantum entanglement is believed to be observed at room temperature in photosynthetic complexes in plants and algae through the energy transfer of dye molecules. The goal of this project is to engineer dye properties and their arrangement when dyes and aggregates are covalently attached to DNA so that the emergent property of exciton delocalization is as coherent, predictable, detectable and controllable. The creation of such a platform would enable the continued study of near room-temperature quantum entanglement and the more …

Consistent Vmt Mapping And Modeling In California: How Can We Better Assess The Vmt Impacts Of State And Local Transportation Projects?, Serena E. Alexander, Shams Tanvir, Syed Tanvir Ahmed, Annie Jones

Mineta Transportation Institute

Despite California’s ambitious target to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, the state is not reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from personal vehicle travel, and per capita Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and GHG emissions continue to increase. One central challenge of climate planning facing California is the lack of consistent methods to measure the VMT impacts of transportation projects. Using both qualitative and quantitative data, this research answers the question: “What are the advantages and limitations of existing VMT calculators to determine the climate impacts of transportation projects to help meet California’s climate goals?” Research methods included: (1) a quantitative analysis …

Learning To Accelerate Globally Optimal Solutions: Applications In The Ac Optimal Power Flow Problem, Muhammet Fatih Cengil

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The Alternating Current Optimal Power Flow (AC-OPF) problem is a fundamental optimization challenge critical to ensuring the economical and reliable operation of power grids. While fast heuristic methods provide upper-bound solutions, assessing their quality requires lower bounds obtained from relaxations of the AC-OPF problem. This dissertation focuses on finding globally optimal solutions to the AC-OPF problem by enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of Quadratic Convex (QC) relaxations. Leveraging machine learning techniques, we aim to achieve tighter relaxations faster and improve computational performance, enabling practical scalability for real-time applications.

In Chapter 2, we propose a machine learning-based method to accelerate the …

Graphene-Based Antennas Utilizing Polyvinylidene Fluoride (Pvdf) Substrates For Attenuation, Josef Frankhouse

Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

In this study, a Terahertz (THz) band antenna which can regulate its own resonant frequency without the requirement of manual adjustment is simulated. A polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) substrate is applied onto a rectangular graphene patch antenna. With a voltage potential applied onto the PVDF, the patch antenna can attenuate its frequency by physically changing the shape of the antenna, and in turn its resonant frequency. These antennas are within a 0.1 THz band between 1.32 THz to 1.22 THz measured from a radial bend of a flat surface to r = 75 , fitting into a return loss (S_{11 …}

Synthesis, Characterization And Testing Of Graphene-Based Materials For Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Catalysts, Hassan Shirzadi Jahromi

Dissertations

The requirement for low cost and efficient catalysts for fuel cells motivated the proposed research on Nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (N-rGO) integrated with transition metal zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs). Synthesis, characterization and performance evaluation of the newly synthesized nitrogen-doped graphene oxide-based catalysts for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) constitutes the main objective of this thesis.

The synthesis of N-rGO combined with cobalt, nickel, or iron ZIFs was carried out using wet chemical methods followed by one step pyrolysis at 900°C, resulting in catalysts with highly porous structures and uniform metal nanoparticle distribution. These were characterized for structure, microstructure, composition …

Faulty Perception Correction Of Autonomous Vehicles In Real-Life Driving Scenarios, Mark Omwansa

Dissertations

Driving is one of the most popular modes of transportation in the world. The United States Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reported 2.8 trillion vehicle-miles traveled (VMT) in 2020, and the National Highway Traffic Association (NHTSA) recorded 3.2 trillion VMT in 2019. Also recorded in the NHTSA report were 39,096 fatalities and 2.7 million injuries due to traffic accidents, costing the economy an estimated $242 billion. Most of these recorded accidents can be attributed to human error or misjudgment. It is for this reason that governments and the automotive industry are looking at autonomous vehicle (AV) technologies …

Public Health Implications Of State-Level Public Health Organizational And System Structures, Cameron Ferguson Hays

Dissertations

Public health thought leaders such as the Institute of Medicine and National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine have long been concerned about the lack of standardization among state-level public health systems (IOM, 1988; NASEM, 2023). However, little research studies these systems, their structures, and whether structural constructs affect population health outcomes.

This study attempted to examine the structural constructs that make up these systems and the impact of those constructs using an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design. Variables from management science were qualitatively extracted from materials describing all 50 state-level public health systems. Those variables were then analyzed using a …

Intelligent Health Monitoring Systems Via Flexible Hybrid Electronics And Machine Learning, Masoud Panahi

Dissertations

Advanced data analytics approaches, such as artificial intelligence (AI), are increasingly being integrated into all aspects of patient care. This integration is paving the way for minimally invasive or non-invasive treatment modalities. By combining recent advancements in fabrication technology and computing ingenuity, wearable devices now enable continuous health monitoring and provide data for AI-driven analysis. These intelligent devices seamlessly integrate with the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling remote or “at-home” patient monitoring.

This dissertation study investigates the integration of recent advancements in flexible hybrid electronics (FHE) and machine learning (ML) to develop intelligent health monitoring systems. The developed FHE-based health …

Preschool Teachers’ Self-Efficacy In Teaching Mathematics: A Multiple Holistic Case Study Approach, Farhana Afroz

All Dissertations

Teachers’ self-efficacy in teaching mathematics plays a significant role in students’ success in mathematics (Levine et al., 2010; MacDonald, 2020). Introducing high-quality mathematics instruction in preschool is crucial, as this practice impacts children’s future mathematics achievement (Claessens & Engel, 2013; Braak et al., 2021). Despite having this benefit, children at the preschool level get inadequate mathematics lessons due to the preschool teachers’ uneasiness or discomfort with teaching mathematics (Gerde et al., 2018; Bates et al., 2013). However, this discomfort or uneasiness may arise from teachers’ self-efficacy in teaching mathematics (Copley, 2004). This study investigated the perceived self-efficacy of preschool teachers …

University Of Nebraska At Omaha Commencement: December 2024, University Of Nebraska At Omaha

Commencement Programs

No abstract provided.

Workplace Ai And Human Flourishing, E. Gary Spitko

Connecticut Law Review

This Article explores the important but largely unexplored relationship between workplace artificial intelligence (AI) and human flourishing. More specifically, the Article examines the potential impact of workplace AI decision tools on such critical matters as workers’ human dignity, workplace and personal autonomy, and the opportunity for upward mobility. AI can analyze data far more quickly and efficiently than humans. Moreover, AI computer models are far superior to people in uncovering subtle correlations in large amounts of data and learning from those correlations. Thus, workplace AI decision tools teach themselves to choose the criteria for recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, and termination …

Imperfect Protection Against Perfect Enforcement: When Procedure Is Not Enough, William S. Fallon

Connecticut Law Review

Government technology that exclusively detects illegal conduct is per se constitutional. Today, the Fourth Amendment provides no protection—zero—against government technology that identifies illegality without also revealing private, innocent behavior.

Meanwhile, alarmingly, government is rapidly developing—and deploying— technology that bypasses the need to examine private, innocent behavior in its detection of wrongdoing. Government can know there is contraband in your bedroom drawer without the need to rummage through that drawer, your home, or any of your private information and possessions. Government can know there is illegal content on your phone without the need to search through that phone or any of …

Artificial Authorship On The Big Screen: Regulating Ai In Scriptwriting, Cassie Larson

UC Law SF Communications and Entertainment Journal

While the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) offers exciting, new creative possibilities for the entertainment industry, it also threatens to replace or undercompensate the humans who have been at the backbone of the industry since its inception. AI’s increasing ability to generate human-quality content raises concerns about job displacement and copyright ownership for scriptwriters. While the recent Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike secured several protections, the unique and rapidly evolving nature of AI requires that further legal safeguards be created. This Note argues for additional regulations to ensure that AI remains a collaborative tool for scriptwriters and not a …

Impossibility Of Artificial Inventors, Matt Blaszczyk

UC Law Science and Technology Journal

Recently, the United Kingdom Supreme Court decided that only natural persons can be considered inventors. A year before, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit issued a similar decision. In fact, so have many of the courts all over the world. This Article analyzes these decisions, argues that the courts got it right, and finds that artificial inventorship is at odds with patent law doctrine, theory, and philosophy. This Article challenges the intellectual property (IP) post-humanists, exposing the analytical and normative perils of their argumentation, and recommends against getting rid of the nominally central place of humans …

Facial Recognition Technology In The Market: What Consumers Need To Know To Protect Their Rights, Liubov Kirzhakova

UC Law Science and Technology Journal

Facial recognition technology (FRT) has rapidly expanded in consumer products over the last decade, offering convenience, but raising significant privacy concerns. This article examines the implications of FRT on consumer privacy, emphasizing the unique risks associated with biometric data. Unlike other personal data, biometrics are biologically unique and irreplaceable, making unauthorized access and misuse particularly harmful. Despite the growing consumer awareness and concern about data privacy, current legal protections are fragmented and insufficient. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of how FRT is integrated into products and services and highlights the privacy risks associated with each. It reviews existing federal …

Phenology And Resource Allocation Strategies Of Diploid Flowering Rush (Butomus Umbellatus) In Ohio And New York, Maxwell G. Gebhart, Ryan M. Wersal, Andrew R. Hannes, Nathan E. Harms, Bradley T. Sartain, William L. Wolanske, Mia Yeager

Biological Sciences Department Publications

Flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus L.) is an emergent perennial monocot that has invaded aquatic systems along the U.S.–Canadian border. Currently, there are two known cytotypes of flowering rush, diploid and triploid, within the invaded range. Although most studies have focused on the triploid cytotype, little information is known about diploid plants. Therefore, phenology and resource allocation were studied on the diploid cytotype of flowering rush in three study sites (Mentor Marsh, OH; Tonawanda Wildlife Management Area, NY; and Unity Island, NY) to understand seasonal resource allocation and environmental influences on growth, and to optimize management strategies. Samples were harvested once …

Designing A System-Level Architecture Of A Wireless User Terminal Using Pdsch, Auruba Islam

2024 Fall Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

With the ever-growing demand for faster and cleaner wireless communication systems, designs for such systems are becoming more and more complex as they account for hardware limitations, modulation techniques, and Rician fading. This project is aimed at developing a system-level architecture for specifically a mobile-wireless user, focusing on the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH). With requirements and constraints already specified by the advising faculty, a simulation reference system has been implemented on MATLAB for PDSCH subject to Rician flat fading, while a demodulator with QPSK modulation has been designed. Existing designs of considerably similar focuses were referred to setting it …

Designing An Advanced Gui For A Laser Harp, Matthew Moran

2024 Fall Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

This project presents the design and development of a laser harp, an innovative digital instrument that combines music and technology to inspire interest in STEM education. The harp uses laser beams and phototransistors to simulate the strings of a traditional harp, producing sound when the beams are interrupted. The primary focus of the honors section of this work is a custom-built software interface developed with a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows users to easily adjust settings like note range, volume, and the central part of the show, looping notes. The GUI is designed to be intuitive, making it easy …

Life-Cycle Cost Analysis Of Fm4 Txdot Roadway Alternatives In Cleburne, Texas, Ethan A. Bright

2024 Fall Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

The Engineering senior design group proposed a three-span concrete bridge, merged lane intersection, and a single storm conduit system. The Honors contribution to this project was analyzing the design’s alternative’s life-cycle costs to compare the most economic design. The project’s cost consists of initial construction, maintenance, and decommission. Utilizing Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) bid code unit prices, each design alternative is calculated by multiplying each material amount by the unit price then summed. Although the parallel conduit system has a cheaper initial cost, it requires more maintenance during its lifetime, therefore the single conduit system was recommended. Notably, cost …

Propulsion Patterns And Joint Kinematics In Experienced And Inexperienced Wheelchair Users, Alexander J. Ginter

2024 Fall Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

There are many ways to propel a wheelchair, including four main propulsion patterns. However, there are no definitive criteria for a “correct” form. This study investigated differences in wheelchair propulsion between experienced and inexperienced wheelchair users to determine any differences in propulsion patterns, joint kinematics, or speed between the two groups, indicating what contributes to a more mature form. Subjects were recorded pushing a wheelchair for twenty feet, then each video was analyzed using Kinovea, a software for tracking body movements. There will be differences in the propulsion patterns between the two groups, and inexperienced users will push more frequently …

Determining Evolutionary Conservation Of Mhc-E And Vista Interaction, Julia Glenn

2024 Fall Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

Research in the Weidanz laboratory is focused on cellular molecules which inhibit immune activation, known as immune checkpoints. One example is HLA-E, which can modulate immune responses at homeostasis or in the context of cancer. HLA-E typically acts by presenting short canonical peptides (VL9s) and binding to CD94/NKG2A receptors on NK cells and T cells. The Weidanz laboratory’s research has found that in the absence of these VL9 peptides, HLA-E binds to another immune checkpoint, VISTA, instead of CD94/NKG2A. Therefore, the HLA-E/VISTA interaction is peptide-dependent. The current study aims to determine if this peptide-dependent interaction is evolutionarily conserved using the …

Exploring Smart Thermostat, Don P. Dang

2024 Fall Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

This study examines the security, privacy, and compatibility challenges associated with smart thermostats in smart home systems. Smart thermostats, as part of the growing Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, face vulnerabilities such as unauthorized access, data breaches, and inconsistent security protocols. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research evaluates encryption techniques, communication protocols (Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi Fi), and user behaviors that impact system security and efficiency. Key findings indicate that 35% of users are concerned about hacking risks, while 25% express data privacy concerns. Many users lack awareness of security measures, such as firmware updates and password management, which increases vulnerabilities. …

Forging A Niche: Preparing Models For The Animation Pipeline In A Changing Industry, Grayson Wiles

Master of Fine Arts in Digital Media Culminating Experience

This culminating experience shows a complete and comprehensive skill set in the animation pipeline using three diverse 3D models: Baba Yaga, the Orc, and the Roo Fighter. This work includes reposing, retopology, UV mapping, texturing, and rigging. Each model was selected for its unique attributes and challenges, showing versatility in anatomy, efficiency, and communication. Spurred on by a dubious job market and the improvement of AI tools, this project showcases the author's capabilities to fulfill multiple roles in the animation pipeline, providing an advantage for employment in the digital media industry.

Conceptual Understanding, Engagement, And Optimal Learning Moments With Problem-Oriented Project Learning In High School Physics, Catherine A. Howell

Dissertations

This research explored the effect of Problem-Oriented Problem Based Learning (POPL) on concept attainment and engagement in a high school physics class. While physics education remains a vital component of STEM education, secondary physics enrollment trails chemistry and biology. Issues contributing to physics’ reputation as a complex subject include prior misconceptions and the formulaic nature of pedagogy. Prior research indicated that active learning can challenge misconceptions and mitigate the sameness of instruction. POPL resides firmly in the active learning methodology of Project-Based Learning (PjBL). This study expanded the research by combining Physics, POPL, concept attainment, multiple components of engagement, and …

Enhancing Accessibility: Policy Innovations For Lower Limb Prosthetic Users, Hannah Huggans

McNair Scholars Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Barcelona As A Blueprint: Integrating Architectural And Urban Identity To Future Urbanism, Angela Uribe

2024 Fall Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

Barcelona is one of the largest and most recognized European cities on Spain's Eastern coast. Throughout its history, it has developed a powerful sense of cultural identity through architecture, design, and urban planning. City identity in some modern architectural and urban developments is slowly disintegrating. This is problematic because these historical and cultural aspects help shape the urban and physical environments we live in today. The study focused on Barcelona’s specific planning strategies and design elements to conclude its underlying city identity, which was used as a point of reference for contemporary city development. The results showed that Barcelona’s Cerda …

About The Mcnair Scholars Program, The Mcnair Team

McNair Scholars Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Pixel: Ai Chatbot For Clear And Effective Senior Design Assistance, Asmin Pothula

2024 Fall Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

This research explores the development of an AI-driven chatbot named Pixel, specifically designed to assist Computer Science and Engineering Senior Design students by providing immediate, clear, and accurate responses to project-related queries. While my Senior Design project focuses on developing a "Senior Design Project Management Tool," my honors capstone project centers on developing Pixel and integrating it into both the project management tool and the CSE Senior Design Knowledge Base. Pixel leverages this knowledge base to offer guidance on tasks such as using lab equipment, performing technical procedures, and troubleshooting common issues, ensuring that students have swift access to relevant …

Implementing Down Syndrome Accessibility Features Through Renovations In The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Bailey G. Samide

2024 Fall Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

Down Syndrome is a developmental disability that affects all stages of development. To create accessible spaces, demographic information, such as age, about the users must be considered and the appropriate features should be added to cater to each stage of development. A few of the appropriate features include mobility improvements, setting clear spatial boundaries, and utilizing lighting techniques. This study explores the feasibility of implementing Down Syndrome accessibility features through renovations in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Using existing literature, a 3D mockup of the more optimal alterations was developed. A heatmap was created based on a variety of data, and …

Natural Lighting As A Strategy For Sustainable Design, Grace Holdsworth

2024 Fall Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

Modern buildings are increasingly reliant on artificial light to illuminate interior spaces, decreasing the importance of natural light in architectural design. However, the adverse effects of climate change, catalyzing blackouts and rising energy costs, have made this reliance a significant issue. This study aimed to analyze the benefits of daylighting in architectural design and its ability to improve buildings’ sustainability. To examine the impact of sunlight on the perception of a space, a light box study model was constructed, and the interior was photographed periodically from sunrise to sunset. This study highlighted the dynamic quality of sunlight, and its ability …