Digital Commons Network^™

The Journey To Becoming An Authentic Leader In A Technical Nursing Institute In Egypt Using Autoethnographic And Descriptive Phenomenological Approaches Through A Three-Article Style Dissertation., Sylvia Basta

Theses and Dissertations--Education Sciences

Authentic leaders in nursing higher education significantly influence the organizational climate, fellow faculty members, and, ultimately, students. They develop in a climate of well-being, allowing them to reflect self-awareness, have a balanced approach to processing self-relevant information, have an internalized moral perspective, and have relational transparency. Positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment are the foundations of this climate. Moreover, authentic leaders grow through their supported Psychological Capacities (PsyCap) of hope, efficacy, resilience, and optimism. Exploring the essence of developing into an authentic leader within an Egyptian nursing higher education context is addressed in this dissertation, which consists of three …

Exploratory Analysis Of Gait Mechanics In Farmers, Mariana V. Jacobs, Kate N. Jochimsen, Jody L. Clasey, Michael A. Samaan

Kinesiology and Health Promotion Faculty Publications

Farmers may be at a higher risk of developing hip osteoarthritis (OA) due to the high demands of their occupation. To the authors’ knowledge, the gait patterns of farmers that may be associated with hip joint degeneration have yet to be analyzed. Therefore, this study compares gait mechanics between farmers and non-farmers (controls). It is hypothesized that farmers would exhibit altered lower extremity joint mechanics during walking when compared to matched controls. This exploratory study included five farmers and five sex-, age-, and body mass index (BMI)-matched controls. A 3D gait analysis was performed while study participants walked at a …

A Comprehensive Evaluation Of Thigh Mineral-Free Lean Mass Measures Using Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (Dxa) In Young Children, Trey R. Naylor, Mariana V. Jacobs, Michael A. Samaan, Laura C. Murphy, Douglas J. Schneider, Margaret O. Murphy, Hong Huang, John A. Bauer, Jody L. Clasey

Kinesiology and Health Promotion Faculty Publications

This study aimed to (1) demonstrate the intra- and interrater reliability of quadriceps (QUADS) and hamstring (HAMS) mineral-free lean (MFL) mass measures using DXA scanning, (2) determine the association of total thigh MFL mass measures with MFL mass measures of the hamstrings and quadriceps combined and (3) analyze the association between total thigh MFL mass and total body MFL mass measures. A total of 80 young children (aged 5 to 11 yrs) participated and unique regions of interest were created using custom analysis software with manual tracing of the QUADS, HAMS, and total thigh MFL mass measures. Repeated-measure analysis of …

The Curious Case Of The Law Review Editor: A Study Of Higher Education's Peculiarly Powerful Students, David R. Wright

Theses and Dissertations--Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation

Many law students in their second or third year enroll in student-led, high-impact co-curricular programs such as law journals, moot court teams, and trial competition teams. Law journals particularly demand significant portions of students’ time and energy, especially for students holding Editor-in-Chief positions on a journal. Much has been written about law journals as institutions or about their utility in modern legal education; but little is known about the actual expectations and experiences of the students leading them. Few, if any, studies exist examining the student experience in law journal leadership. How student editors spend their time running their journal …

Investigating The Psychometric Properties Of A Set Of Local Stem Literacy Instruments In Rasch Model, Lijun Shen

Theses and Dissertations--Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation

This study investigates the psychometric features of the See Blue STEM literacy inventories (SBSTEMs, including the elementary version SB-E and the middle school version SB-M) to determine their validity in measuring STEM literacy. Using data from elementary and middle school students participating in the See Blue STEM camp in 2019 and 2021-22, this research employed the Rasch Partial Credit Model (PCM) to analyze item-level performance and identify DIF items across various demographic subgroups (race, gender, free-lunch status, and potential first-generation status) and camp delivery modes (online versus in-person). Results indicated that both the elementary (SB-E) and middle school (SB-M) versions …

Competent Readers’ Online Multimodal Reading Strategies Use, Hyoju Ahn

Faculty Articles, Papers, and Other Scholarship

As reading spaces evolve, it is imperative to identify and describe the strategies and skills used in constructing meaning. I examined online multimodal reading strategies, those used in constructing meaning from multimodal information sources (e.g., images, audio, written words) on the Internet. Participants read online multimodal texts from a laptop screen and provided verbal reports as they read to learn a scientific topic. Through verbal protocol analysis, I cataloged and described their multimodal reading comprehension strategies. Complementing retrospective interviews, reader-computer interaction videos, and written pre- and post-knowledge reports accounted for how they read strategically. Strategies were coded to provide insights …

Knee Health Is A Major Determinant Of Mobility Across The Healthspan, Brandon M. Peoples, Kenneth Harrison, Michael A. Samaan, Christopher B. Mobley, David T. Redden, Jaimie A. Roper

Kinesiology and Health Promotion Faculty Publications

Knee health constitutes a pivotal determinant of locomotor function and overall mobility throughout the healthspan. Impairments in knee function lead to a series of biomechanical and physiological alterations that pose substantial public health challenges and economic burdens worldwide. This review synthesizes evidence that delineates the complex and multifaceted relationship between knee health and mobility, emphasizing the interplay across various domains in adult populations. Knee health is conceptualized as a dynamic, interconnected system whereby structural integrity, neuromuscular mechanisms, biomechanical adaptations, and functional mobility are intricately interrelated through cascades of mechanistic processes operating across different temporal stages. A comprehensive understanding of these …

Examining The Professional Noticing Skills, Attitudes Toward Mathematics, And Elementary Math Content Knowledge Of Preservice Elementary School Teachers Through The Noticing Numeracy Now Intervention, Johnathan T. Rogers

Theses and Dissertations--Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education

Abstract: This quasi-experimental study examined the impact of the Noticing Numeracy Now intervention, an intervention focused on professional noticing of children’s conceptual development in whole number and arithmetic reasoning, on preservice elementary teachers’ professional noticing skills, attitudes toward mathematics, and elementary math content knowledge. This study was based off of a previous study and intervention created by Molly Fisher, Jonathan Thomas, Edna Schack, Cindy Jong and Janet Tassell. This study used a video-based professional noticing module, consisting of four lessons, situated in the pedagogies of practice framework. Within this study, 10 students (all preservice elementary teachers) at Kentucky State University …

Making Headway On Sports Concussion: Sport-Specific Strategies For Concussion Prevention, Marcus Moore

All Faculty Publications

Concussions in sports are a significant public health concern worldwide. Concussion is a traumatic brain injury (‘TBI’) resulting from biomechanical forces transmitted to the head that disrupt normal neurological function. Globally, an estimated 69 million TBIs occur annually. Concussive effects can persist as long-term syndromes (post-concussion syndrome), or compound themselves into life-threatening emergencies (second-impact syndrome). Chronic, even subconcussive, impacts can ultimately lead to degenerative neurological conditions (chronic traumatic encephalopathy). Troublingly, to date, there remains no medical cure for concussions. Prevention is thus paramount, as well as management, to avoid the compounding of injury or dangerous complications, as noted. Sports and …

The Torch: 2024-2025 In Review, College Of Arts & Sciences Honors Program

Torch Newsletter

No abstract provided.

Cultural Learning Of Metacognition: Evidence From Blind Individuals, Marissa Renee Bamberger, Lindsay N. Harris

CISLL Publications

The cultural origins hypothesis posits conscious metacognitive abilities in humans are acquired through cultural selection facilitated by cultural learning. Interpersonal broadcasting, much of which is nonverbal, is hypothesized to be one conduit of cultural learning. Thus, individuals with no or limited access to nonverbal information, such as blind persons, should have metacognitive abilities different from those of the larger culture. To test this prediction, we asked blind (n = 23) and sighted (n = 20) adults to recall the modality (Spoken or Written) of words whose definitions they had learned, and to indicate their degree of confidence in …

Low Protein Diet Strategy, S. Y. Liu, P. V. Chrystal, M. T. Kidd, M. Toghyani, S. P. Macelline, P. H. Selle

Proceedings of the Arkansas Nutrition Conference

Reduced crude protein (CP) diets can lower nitrogen excretion and improve litter quality, but their effectiveness varies depending on the grain type, with wheat-based diets often showing poorer broiler performance compared to maize or sorghum. The digestive dynamics and synchrony between NBAA and protein-bound amino acids, along with starch-to-protein ratios, influence feed efficiency and fat deposition, which remains a challenge in reduced CP diets. Optimizing amino acid supplementation and exploring alternative protein-rich ingredients may help improve outcomes, especially in regions with limited access to soybean meal.

The Abcs Of Rapport, Sharon K. Ferrett

Trade & Scholarly Monographs

In a world that often talks more than it listens, The ABCs of Rapport is a practical and heartfelt guide to creating meaningful connections, one conversation at a time. This book offers tools, tips, and strategies to help you really listen, communicate effectively, and bridge the distance between yourself and others. More than a communication manual, it’s an invitation to shift how you perceive people, and to see everyone as part of our shared humanity. Whether you’re talking with a child, partner, friend, neighbor, or coworker, The ABCs of Rapport helps you build understanding and connection, even in hard conversations. …

Dean's Report- Winter-Spring 2025, Marina K. Holz

GSBMS Dean’s Report

No abstract provided.

The Statewide Standard, 2025, Illinois State University

The Statewide Standard

Annual newsletter of the Illinois State University College of Education

Does Digital Screen Exposure Have An Impact On The Ocular Health Of Children And Adolescents?, Hannah Brodt

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

The increasing prevalence of digital screens among children and adolescents raises significant concerns regarding their ocular health. This paper reviews current evidence linking screen time to visual health issues, particularly myopia (nearsightedness), dry eye syndrome, and digital eye strain. Through a comprehensive literature review of observational studies, the analysis identifies a strong correlation between excessive screen time and the exacerbation of myopia and dry eye disease, particularly in younger populations. The findings highlight the importance of balanced screen time and suggest that early exposure to screens may significantly increase the risk of developing myopia. Further research is also recommended to …

Mind Over Matter: Do Nootropics Hold The Key To Fighting Alzheimer’S?, Ben Berkowitz

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and impaired daily functioning. Nootropics, a class of cognitive-enhancing compounds, have recently emerged as potential therapeutic agents for mitigating the cognitive impairments associated with AD. This paper reviews the current evidence regarding the efficacy (or lack thereof) of different treatments used in the past for treating Alzheimer’s, including cholinesterase inhibitors and anti-Aβ antibodies. The findings are compared to those using various nootropics, including natural supplements and synthetic compounds, in modulating neurobiological pathways relevant to AD pathology. Mechanisms of action such as neuroprotection, antioxidant activity, acetylcholine modulation, …

Neonatal Immune System Development, Miriam Solomson

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

The immune system is essential for the body’s function and survival, consisting of two main components, the innate and adaptive immune systems. This paper will explore the various components of the neonatal immune system, such as the innate and adaptive or acquired systems, the initial colonization of microbes, and the crucial role of maternal antibodies. Additionally, this paper will delve into the significance of breastfeeding, the influence of different birth methods on gut microbiota, and the success of vaccines on neonates. This research paper’s goal is to provide insight into neonatal immune system development, the various factors that have an …

Implant Alternatives: The Advancements Of Stem Cells In Regenerative Dentistry, Akiva Goldschmidt

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

This research paper explores the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) within the realm of dentistry, focusing particularly on their ability to repair tissues and regenerate entire teeth. MSCs are significant as they can send differentiation signals to nearby cells and release growth factors such as TGF-β and VEGF, which promote cellular activities necessary for dental repair and regeneration. The paper discusses the traditional methods of dental restoration, such as fillings and implants, and their inherent limitations. It then transitions to exploring innovative strategies that utilize MSCs to overcome these challenges and regenerate tooth structures including enamel, dentin, and periodontal …

Retinal Vision Restoration, Aharon S. Galandauer

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Retinal degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide due to the retina’s inability to regenerate specialized cells after injury or stress. This study examines the potential for retinal regeneration by assessing current research on Müller glial cell differentiation and stem cell-based treatments. An analysis of experimental studies and therapeutic advancements highlights the mechanisms observed in regenerative models such as zebrafish and chicks, in contrast to the reactive gliosis and glial scarring observed in humans. Findings suggest that therapies such as optogenetics and stem cell transplantation have partially restored vision; however, their limitations stem from an inability to fully …

Can Cystic Fibrosis Be Treated With Genetic Therapy?, Steve Silverberg

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

This paper discusses the current and prospective treatment options for the fatal genetic disease cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a rare recessive genetic disorder that is caused by a mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which codes for a protein that is on the surface of a cell. This protein allows for the flow of chloride, bicarbonate, and sodium ions to pass through the cell wall, bringing water with it. When this protein doesn’t work, the lack of ions and water in extracellular fluid becomes too thick, causing a multitude of problems. The most common …

Risk Factors Of Covid-19 Mortality, Ellie Wolff

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

This paper investigates the relationship between key health demographics and COVID-19 mortality while focusing on identifying both physiological and genetic factors that contribute to variations in mortality rates. Specifically, it examines how pre-existing conditions—such as sex, autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity—interact with COVID-19 pathophysiology to influence patient outcomes. While previous research has highlighted demographic disparities in hospital mortality rates, this study aims to establish a causal, mechanistic link between these health factors and COVID-19 severity. Methods to extract and analyze data included literature review using existing studies such as peer-reviewed articles and reports from PubMed, CDC, etc. By analyzing …

The Bidirectional Gut-Brain Axis: Impact Of Dysbiosis On Depression Through The Hpa Axis, Matan Shiller

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Emerging research suggests that depression is not solely a brain disorder but is deeply influenced by the gut microbiome. The gut-brain axis (GBA) is a bidirectional communication system linking the gastrointestinal system and the brain, modulating mood, behavior, and mental health. Gut microbiota produce metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and tryptophan catabolites, that influence neurotransmission and the stress response via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, disrupts these pathways, contributing to a major depressive disorder (MDD). Evidence from germ-free animal studies and fecal microbiota transplants (FMT) highlights the role of gut microbiota in emotional regulation and …

Constitutional Law: First Amendment Disequilibrium, Christina Koningisor

The Judges' Book

No abstract provided.

Consumption Pressure In Estuaries Peaks At Intermediate Salinities, Catherine E. De Rivera, Amy A. Larson, Benjamin G. Rubinoff, Luna R. Soto, Seth L. Wright, Edwin D. Grosholz, Gregory M. Ruiz, Andrew L. Chang

Environmental Science and Management Faculty Publications and Presentations

The nature and strength of biotic interactions change along stress gradients, but the importance of these interactions across estuarine gradients is under studied. Here, we examined how consumption varies across estuarine salinity gradients by deploying standardized baits (‘squidpops’) to measure consumption pressure along the gradients of five estuaries in Oregon, USA. The relationship between consumption and stress was nonlinear: consumption pressure peaked slightly at mid salinity and decreased at low salinity, especially as temperature increased, in the five estuaries studied. This finding does not support either of two existing models for consumption across gradients, including the Consumer Stress Model and …

Urban Heterogeneity Drives Dissolved Organic Matter Sources, Transport, And Transformation From Local To Macro Scales, Rebecca L. Hale, Kristina G. Hopkins, Krista A. Capps, John S. Kominoski, Jennifer L. Morse, Allison H. Roy, Shuo Chen, Annika Quick, Andrew J. Blinn, Liz Ortiz Muñoz, Gwendolynn Folk

Environmental Science and Management Faculty Publications and Presentations

Urbanization reshapes dissolved organic matter (DOM) sources, transport, and transformations through changes in vegetation, hydrology, and management of waste and water. Yet the impacts of urbanization on DOM are variable within and among cities. Predicting heterogeneous responses to urbanization is challenged by diverse human activities and underlying biophysical variation along stream networks. Using data from the 486 largest urban areas in the continental United States and seven focal cities, we identified macro and local scale urban gradients in social, built, and biophysical factors that are expected to shape DOM. We used these gradients and the literature to develop hypotheses about …

The Fascist Economic Paradox: Countering And Co-Opting Capitalism And Socialism In Interwar Europe, Vicente Pérez Catalán

History Undergraduate Departmental Honors Theses

One of the ambiguities within the study of fascism and political history in the 20th century is defining, in logical terms, the development of a coherent fascist economic identity. Three fascist governments will be examined in this project, Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy, and Vichy France, with the goal of understanding if there is indeed a distinction on their exertion of economic power as opposed to other ideological systems that could aid outlining fascism not merely as a political or philosophical doctrine, but perhaps also an economic one.

This study examines the political background prior to the formation of the three …

Disability In Exile: The "Union Of Russian Invalids" In Interwar Bulgaria And Yugoslavia, Evguenia Davidova

History Faculty Publications and Presentations

This article examines the post-war experience of a specific group of war veterans: the Russian refugees after the October Revolution in 1917. What happened when disabled veterans were stateless and dispersed among several foreign states? The focus is on comparing interwar Bulgaria and Yugoslavia, two countries on opposite sides of the Great War. There the refugees established various societies, mostly dominated by the military. Drawing on unpublished archival sources, this article investigates how the Russian societies for disabled persons functioned at four levels: amid the other Russian associations in Bulgaria and Yugoslavia; among the greater diaspora known as “Russia Abroad”; …

Does Coil Build Social Capital? Trust, Tolerance, And Political Engagement Among Students In The Usa And Uae, Lindsay J. Benstead, Kristina Katsos, Sally S. Mudiamu, Corinne Hughes

Politics and Global Affairs Faculty Publications and Presentations

Despite technological innovation and the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a dearth of experimental research on the effects of virtual instruction. Using an original field experiment conducted among 100 UAE and USA students, we investigate how a Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) project on international development shapes social trust, tolerance, and political engagement. In an experimental design, UAE-based students were randomly assigned to a group with either their classmates or, through online interaction, with USA-based students, while in a quasi-experimental design, USA-based students collaborated online with UAE-based students. UAE-based COIL students developed greater interpersonal trust of others in their society, but …

Will Malaysia Become An Active Middle Power?, Bruce Gilley

Politics and Global Affairs Faculty Publications and Presentations

Malaysia’s economic growth and democratisation since 2003 have vaulted it into the ranks of the middle powers in the international system. However, Malaysia remains hesitant about its middle power status. It has assumed a counterhegemonic or pro-multipolarity role; it has supported some new international rules and institutions; it leads regional governance institutions; and it advocates for small countries on development issues. However, these middle power behaviours are countered by a continuation of traditional Malaysia diplomacy which is inactive in shaping the emergence of superpower China as well as being disruptive and personalistic, most recently because of its embrace of radicalisms. …