Digital Commons Network^™

Benefits Washing, Samantha Prince

Faculty Scholarly Works

Employee benefits often comprise between 24% and 26% of an employee’s total compensation. As such, it is important that people know what benefits companies actually offer. Unfortunately, instead of being transparent, numerous companies engage in what this author calls “benefits washing.” Benefits washing occurs when companies provide vague or misleading information about their employee benefits in an effort to make their benefits appear better than they are. The practice occurs in three primary ways: detail omission, attention deflection, and deceptive manipulation.

This Essay elaborates on what constitutes benefits washing. It presents numerous examples of America’s largest employers engaging in benefits …

Sex Crimes And Progressive Prosecution: Reimagining Sex Offenses And Sorn Laws As An Opportunity For Criminal Justice Reform, Kana Turley

Journal of Criminal Law and Criminology

As progressive efforts to reform the U.S. criminal legal system continue to take form, one category of crime has been consistently overlooked: sex offenses. While the carceral system is often condemned for its excessive punitiveness, severe punishments for sex offenders remain largely unchallenged and even popular. A primary example of these punishments is sex offender registration and notification (SORN) laws, which significantly constrain the lives of sex offenders after they have served their time in prison. Though subject to decades of empirical criticism from scholars, much of which has found that SORN laws have no significant impact on sex offender …

Ijns–Nsw 2024 Special Issue Title Pages, Rachel Brooks

International Journal of Nuclear Security

This document displays the title page and publishing information for the IJNS–NSW 2024 special issue.

Investigation Of Radiation Absorption Behavior Of Banana Leaves And Onion: A Cost-Effective Way Of Radiation Protection, Arpita Datta, Alpana Goel, Shreya Singh

International Journal of Nuclear Security

Shielding of nuclear radiation is an important component of radiation safety aiming to reduce the exposure of ionizing radiation to radiation workers. In the present work, beta and gamma radiation absorption properties of various environmentally friendly natural materials such as onion, banana leaf, and banana stem were investigated with a view to understand their radiation shielding capability. Pure beta source ⁹⁰Sr–⁹⁰Y and gamma sources such as ²⁴¹Am, ¹³⁷Cs and ⁶⁰Co were used to study the attenuation of beta and gamma radiation using these natural materials. Intensity of the emitted radiation was measured by placing …

Acknowledgments, Rachel Brooks

International Journal of Nuclear Security

This document contains the acknowledgments from Nuclear Security Women and IJNS.

Liberalizing The Nuclear Energy Sector: Small Modular Reactors, Net-Zeros, And Perceptions In India, Hely Desai

International Journal of Nuclear Security

The experimental small modular reactors (SMRs) have come to gain immense attention and importance given the global quest to quickly achieve net-zero goals. The Indian Government, too, has been pushing for SMRs to aid its industrial decarbonization targets and eventually wield the supply mediation in the race to acquire this novel technology. However, one of the key debates driving SMR discourse in India is the dilemma of allowing the involvement of the private sector into the nuclear energy realm. Although this idea seems to be an exciting solution to India’s energy woes, the reevaluation of a 60-year-old energy law comes …

Statement Of Diversity And Inclusion, Rachel Brooks

International Journal of Nuclear Security

This document includes the special issue's statement of diversity and inclusion.

Letter From The Ijns Editors, Rachel Brooks, Ashley A. Humphrey

International Journal of Nuclear Security

This document contains the letter from the IJNS publications and outreach managers.

Strengthening Guardrails Against Attacks On Nuclear Facilities, Ashley Christ

International Journal of Nuclear Security

Military events at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine have forced the world to confront an unprecedented element of nuclear risk in conventional war fighting. Although this is the first time kinetic military hostilities have threatened the security of an active nuclear power plant, it is unlikely to be the last. At a time when countries in the Middle East are pursuing nuclear power, the international community must urgently build strong norms against military activities that threaten nuclear power plants. This article analyzes existing instruments designed to reduce the risk of attacks on nuclear facilities as well as political …

Fortifying Nuclear Security: Cultivating Vigilance Culture Among Personnel For Enhanced Prevention And Response, Sabariah Kader Ibrahim, Sonia Naz

International Journal of Nuclear Security

A vigorous nuclear security culture is crucial in preventing the theft and sabotage of nuclear material. It requires vigilance from all employees because relying solely on closed-circuit television systems and security personnel is insufficient to deter potential threats. Employee attentiveness plays a vital role in recognizing and preventing suspicious activities. However, achieving a strong security culture is challenging because of the lack of incidents in some facilities, leading to employee complacency.

This paper highlights the pivotal role of personnel in the success of nuclear security measures, emphasizing the need for a proactive and vigilant mindset among staff. Through the analysis …

Enhancing Nuclear And Radiological Security In Polarized Times: Safeguarding Against Extremist Insider Threats, Jessica Baweja, Madelyn Dunning, Keithan Rogers

International Journal of Nuclear Security

Domestic violent extremism has been on the rise in recent years, fueled by growing political polarization, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the spread of misinformation online. This concerning trend raises an important question: has this increase in extremist violence manifested in more incidents involving radioactive or nuclear (RN) materials and a corresponding security concern? To explore this question, we analyzed existing data on events involving chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear materials over time. Specifically, we examined the rate of RN-related incidents, the targets of these events, and the ideologies motivating the perpetrators by using the Violent Non-State Actor Chemical, Biological, Radiological, …

Women In Nuclear Security: The United Arab Emirates Story, Mohamad Z. Zineddin

International Journal of Nuclear Security

Historically in the United Arab Emirates, security personnel stationed at nuclear sites were typically men with military or policing backgrounds. Although these groups bring important, transferrable skills and experience to the nuclear security mission, some Emirati stakeholders recognize the increased benefit of a greater diversity of voices and backgrounds within the nuclear security team hierarchy. By recruiting from a wider range of disciplines and encouraging gender diversity, the security team could develop broader insight into security challenges, and a greater variety of perspectives could bring forth more innovative solutions.

When aligning a diverse, multinational workforce with a common mission, all …

Empowering Voices: The Unsung Role Of Women In Establishing And Sustaining The Pelindaba Treaty For An African Nuclear Weapon–Free Zone, Heba Fathy Elkomey, Alejandra Loreto Alfaro, Dennis Balami, Adeline Yuego, Miriam Yartey, Geraldine Okoye

International Journal of Nuclear Security

The Pelindaba Treaty, officially known as the African Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (NWFZ) Treaty, stands as proof of Africa’s collective commitment to a nuclear-weapon-free continent. It was opened for signature in 1996 in Cairo, Egypt, and entered into force in 2009. Its main aim is to prevent the development, acquisition, possession, or stationing of nuclear weapons within the zone, thereby promoting peace and security for all African nations. The treaty outlines an array of comprehensive measures to achieve this goal. State parties are prohibited from engaging in any nuclear weapon–related activities. Also, the treaty requires parties to maintain the highest standards of …

The Role Of Human Security In Addressing The Inclusion Of Women: Nuclear Security And The Women, Peace And Security Agenda In Jordan And Egypt, Yara Shaban, Jasmine Auda

International Journal of Nuclear Security

This paper argues for a human security approach to women’s participation in nuclear security that stems from the larger Women, Peace and Security framework. This approach incorporates a gender perspective and a feminist lens that argues that women’s participation should extend beyond the diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to include an understanding of the centrality of women’s role from a human security approach in peacebuilding participation, negotiation, and conflict prevention. The paper explores this nexus by reviewing Egypt and Jordan’s approach to Women, Peace and Security and argues for framing women’s inclusion within a human security perspective. The review revealed …

Letter From The Nuclear Security Women Editors, Kathleen Doty, Lindsey K. Gehrig

International Journal of Nuclear Security

This document contains the letter written by the Nuclear Security Women guest editors for this special issue.

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk: The First Gender Champion, Muhammed Ali Alkış, Océane Van Geluwe

International Journal of Nuclear Security

The founder of the modern, secular nation-state of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, transformed the Ottoman Empire into the nation-state of Türkiye. His visionary approach focused on secularization and nation-state building, which established him as a true “gender champion” long before such a term had meaning in the current global agenda. With the support of Turkish women during and after the War of Independence, he committed himself to increasing all citizens’ welfare, focusing on gender equality and breaking the traditional gender barriers. His reforms resulted in the rapid modernization of the Turkish Republic, and Turkish women took a leading …

Foreword

International Journal of Nuclear Security

This document contains the foreword for the IJNS–NSW 2024 special issue.

Confined To Being Defined, Hope A. Reyes

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

No abstract provided.

Rooted In Resistance, Growing In Boriken: The Fight For Climate And Agricultural Justice In Puerto Rico, Jada Melendez

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

This project examines how Puerto Rico’s agricultural system has been shaped by historical colonization, economic policy, and climate change. Once largely self-sustaining, the island now imports more than 85 percent of its food, creating major vulnerabilities during natural disasters and economic disruptions. My research analyzes four key systems of injustice political, economic, social, and environmental and how they intersect to impact food sovereignty. The project also highlights grassroots solutions such as agroecology education, land protection, and investment in sustainable infrastructure. Through this work, I developed a deeper understanding of how colonial legacies continue to affect food systems today and how …

The Adversities Of Latinx/Hispanic Youth In The Foster Care System, Juan Escobar

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

Minorities in the foster care system experience an adverse childhood due to the systemic issues present within foster care. The adversities faced by Latinx and Hispanic youth in the foster care system is a continuous problem causing significant disparities within the foster care system. The problems Latinx/Hispanic youth face are unique to this population in the areas of culture and policy. Disparities show that the current system does not utilize equitable practices and there is progress to be made with child welfare policies. The problem contributes to the social strains on Latinx/Hispanic youth, particularly immigrant youth, who face challenges related …

Health Disparities Among Hispanic/Latino Community, Meriam F. Naguib

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

This research project is about health disparities among the largest minority group in the United States, which is the Hispanic/Latino community. This ethnic community offers a rich and deep culture that impacts the United States through new experiences and so much more. However, many individuals suffer from health disparities due to lack of documentation status. Through lack of documentation status, many are not able to receive insurance coverage. This is an issue because the United states healthcare field is very costly and require individuals receiving that care to have insurance to help cover the cost. This research will dive deeper …

The Lack Of Mental Health Support In Caribbean Households, Arnoudly Bossicot

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

Growing up in a Caribbean household, mental health, amongst other topics, was something no one dared to speak about. Seeking therapy or talking to a trusted family member is not an option since you will look weak. When mental health issues are left untreated, long-term adverse effects on the emotional, social, physical, and behavioral aspects of life. In some instances, it may result in suicide. This research will explore the different elements that affect a person’s willingness to receive mental health treatment in Caribbean households. Would teenagers and young adults seek mental help if given the right resources and support? …

Beyond Equality: Systemic Barriers And Equity Solutions For Latina Workers, Leismarie Alicea Estrada

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

This study examines the systemic barriers facing Latina workers in the U.S., with a focus on wage gaps, occupational segregation, and policy failures. Drawing from national datasets (EPI, NWLC). The purpose of the research poster is to explore and depict a picture of how gender, ethnicity, and immigration status compound to exploit Latinas across industries—particularly in domestic work, agriculture, and healthcare.

Its Not A “Conflict” When Its Colonization; The Continued Oppression Of The Palestinians, Safia K. Alkhub, Safia K. Alkhub

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

This project aims to educate and shed light into the colonization and oppression of Palestinians that has been happening long before October 7th of 2023 as something more than a conflict. What Palestine is facing is injustice, ongoing settler colonialism and systemic oppression under a military occupation. Since the Nakba of 1948, the displacement, land theft, and violence that the Palestinians face continues while the world continue to be silent and complacent because of the aid of western forces like the United States to the Israeli military both by arms deals and monetary aid to the Israeli military. Many human …

Unmasking The Global Crisis Of Misinformation: Its Devastating Impact On Leadership And Public Health, Kazi S. Salsabil

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

With the advancement of information access, the global community faces the growing dilemma of misinformation. The sources we rely on such as news, social media, and other media platforms play a critical role in our daily decisions, particularly in health and politics. Moreover, research has shown that misinformation has contributed to significant events such as election crises and the global pandemic. The purpose of this project is to address the global crisis of misinformation on leadership and Public health. The aim is to understand the causes and effects of this dilemma while determining more effective solutions that can create a …

Spanish-Speaking Parents' Comprehension Of School-Based Speech Therapy Documentation, Daria Hernandez

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

Navigating speech-language therapy in schools can feel overwhelming for many families, and for Hispanic parents, language barriers and limited health literacy (HL) skills may intensify this challenge. There is a significant gap in research on health literacy strategies used by school-based speech-language pathologists (SLPs). This issue becomes more critical when examining how Spanish-speaking parents navigate Spanish translations of essential documents like IEPs. This gap emphasizes the urgent need for research in this area, and my project seeks to help address it.

Teaching Client Counseling In The Shadow Of Homelessness, Gregory Zlotnick

Faculty Articles

Working with clients at risk of or experiencing, homelessness teaches personal and professional humility like few other experiences in law school or the practice of law. Yet such sensitive work also provides an opportunity for law students to develop both a keener understanding of their own professional identity-with its capacities and limitations and critical counseling skills. This essay draws upon experiences gained in three distinct law school projects that work with clients at risk of or experiencing, homelessness.

After providing a brief overview of each project, the essay will explore methods used for training and supervising students during their counseling …

Multimodal Wearable Intelligence For Dementia Care In Healthcare 4.0: A Survey, Po Yang, Gaoshan Bi, Jun Qi, Xulong Wang, Yun Yang, Li Da Xu

Information Technology & Decision Sciences Faculty Publications

As a new revolution of Ubiquitous Computing and Internet of Things, multimodal wearable intelligence technique is rapidly becoming a new research topic in both academic and industrial fields. Owning to the rapid spread of wearable and mobile devices, this technique is evolving healthcare from traditional hub-based systems to more personalised healthcare systems. This trend is well-aligned with recent "Healthcare 4.0" which is a continuous process of transforming the entire healthcare value chain to be preventive, precise, predictive and personalised, with significant benefits to elder care. But empowering the utility of multimodal wearable intelligence technique for elderly care like people with …

Last-Minute Coordination: Adapting To Demand To Support Last-Mile Operations, Kedong Chen, Hung-Chung Su, Kevin Linderman, William Li

Information Technology & Decision Sciences Faculty Publications

In the highly competitive e-commerce industry, customer-facing warehouses are crucial as the “order penetration points” for e-commerce last-mile operations. This research examines how warehouses use last-minute coordination, an unstructured mechanism, to ensure sufficient inventory at the order penetration points. Previous research has focused on structured mechanisms like contracts and inventory management systems to enhance warehouse performance. However, these mechanisms can be ineffective when faced with unforeseen local contingencies. To adjust inventory and adapt to changes in supply and/or demand, warehouses need to engage in unstructured, last-minute coordination with other warehouses. Using coordination and loose coupling theories, we find that coordinating …

A Two-Phase Learning Approach Integrated With Multi-Source Features For Cloud Service Qos Prediction, Fuzan Chen, Jing Yang, Haiyang Feng, Harris Wu, Minqiang Li

Information Technology & Decision Sciences Faculty Publications

Quality of Service (QoS) is a key factor for users when choosing cloud services. However, QoS values are often unavailable due to insufficient user evaluations or provider data. To address this, we propose a new QoS prediction method, Multi-source Feature Two-phase Learning (MFTL). MFTL incorporates multiple sources of features influencing QoS and uses a two-phase learning framework to make effective use of these features. In the first phase, coarse-grained learning is performed using a neighborhood-integrated matrix factorization model, along with a strategy for selecting high-quality neighbors for target users. In the second phase, reinforcement learning through a deep neural network …