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Ua 64/2 The Challenge: Magazine For The Center For Gifted Studies (No. 59 Fall 2025), Elizabeth Joyce Editor

Gifted Studies Publications

Magazine created by and about the WKU Center for Gifted Studies.

Instilling Primary-Source Research Confidence In Undergraduate History Majors: Insight Into Instructional Impact And Student Preferences, Matthew J. Gorzalski

Articles

Information literacy and critical thinking are arguably the most important and transferable skills undergraduate history majors develop in the course of their studies. A primary-source-based research paper is often an undergraduate history major’s capstone assignment toward graduation. Yet they often face these assignments having little or no prior experience with archival research and lack confidence in finding and using primary sources. This article reports on a study conducted during the 2022 and 2023 spring semesters at Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) involving archival literacy instruction for undergraduate history majors enrolled in HIST 392 Historical Research and Writing. It examined the …

Csbs Kudos, Fall 2025, University Of Northern Iowa. College Of Social And Behavioral Sciences.

CSBS Kudos

Contents:

--- Faculty Accolades
--- New Faculty & Staff
--- In Memoriam - Carole Edginton
--- In Memoriam - Clemens Bartollas
--- UNI names Allison Rank as inaugural director of the Center for Civic Education
--- Tradition meets tomorrow, one historic image at a time
--- Historian Serena Zabin delivered 52nd annual UNI Becker Lecture on Boston Massacre
--- UNI ROTC program to remain on campus under new U.S. Army structure
--- UNI professor starts first-of-its-kind health initiative in Iowa for retired men
--- UNI hosts third White Coat Ceremony for nursing students
--- UNI welcomes students and community to …

Out From The Shadows: Party Documents In Chinese Courts, Benjamin L. Liebman, Eva Gao, Xiaohan Wu, Rachel E. Stern, Margaret Roberts

Faculty Scholarship

The Communist Party’s influence over the Chinese legal system is generally assumed to be behind the scenes, largely invisible to outside observers. Since General Secretary Xi Jinping came to power in 2012, there has been renewed attention within and outside of China to the relationship between the Communist Party and the legal system. Much of this recent writing has emphasized the degree to which Xi’s efforts to affirm Party superiority and break down barriers between the Party and the State reflects a profound shift in governance and a reversal of a decades-long effort to distinguish between Party roles and those …

The Trump Administration Reverses U.S. Position On Unrwa Immunities, Lori Fisler Damrosch

Faculty Scholarship

On April 24, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice submitted a letter in a civil lawsuit that maintains for the first time that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is not immune from U.S. civil litigation. The letter reverses the position taken by the previous administration in the same lawsuitFootnote 2 and alters nearly eight decades of U.S. practice concerning the immunities of UN entities that are considered subsidiary organs of UN principal organs and thus part of the United Nations itself. Heretofore, the government stated that such organs are entitled …

Twenty-Four Year Record Reveals Increasing Discharge In Tributaries To A Key Drinking Water Resource, Shannon Speir, Ireyra G. Tamayo, Alana G. Strauss

Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences Faculty Publications and Presentations

Climate change is altering precipitation patterns worldwide, yielding changes in streamflow and water availability. Increases in storm frequency and intensity, as well as prolonged droughts, may alter the timing and magnitude of flow and nutrient delivery to downstream systems, many of which serve as key drinking water resources. Thus, we must understand long-term changes in streamflow to protect drinking water supplies. Here, we document changes in streamflow delivery to Beaver Lake Reservoir, the key drinking water source in rapidly urbanising Northwest Arkansas. We used publicly available data to analyse flow records in four key tributaries to Beaver Lake from 2000 …

(Si15-022) Five Efficient Cryptography Authentication Schemes With Functional Relation On General Spaces, L. Sreenivasulu Reddy, S. Lakshmisri

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

This work addresses the growing demand for diversification in cryptographic schemes to secure communication. This work proposes a novel suite of algorithms, including two block ciphers (TPBlock and TAP-Block), two stream ciphers (TP-Stream and TAP-Stream), and a zero-knowledge proof scheme (F-zero knowledge proof). All schemes leverage functional relations defined over the real number space with a dimension greater than one for encryption, decryption, and key generation, offering an alternative to the number-theoretical aspects and algebraic structures commonly used in existing schemes. The main goal of this work is to introduce and propose these five novel cryptographic schemes to provide authentication …

(Si15-140) Designing Bayesian Double Sampling Plans Based On Zero Inflated Poisson Distribution, Priyadharshini R., Shalini K., Hemalatha R., Sangeetha S.

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

The implementation of attribute-based sampling inspection serves as a quality control technique used across numerous industries to evaluate items or workflow processes. When the data exhibits a substantial number of zero counts, the zero-inflated Poisson (ZIP) distribution serves as an effective model for accommodating this zero-inflation. Double sampling plan (DSP) is a quality check method where the decision to approve or decline a batch comes after examining two samples, providing more conclusive information compared to a single sample plan (SSP). In practice, effective decision-making regarding submitted lots considers both within-lot and between-lot variations, which can be addressed through the use …

(Si15-121) Analyzing Seitr Tuberculosis Transmission Model Using Caputo–Fabrizio Fractional Derivative With Diverse Contact Rates, S. S. Sumaiya Banu, T. Gunasekar, S. Manikandan, Kamalendra Kumar, M. Suba

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

In the modern age, tuberculosis remains a pressing global health concern. Our study introduces and evaluates the SEITR pandemic TB transmission model, dividing the population into five compartments to explore distinct characteristics relevant to our investigation. Additionally, we delve into the application of fractional calculus. Through the Laplace transform method, we derive series solutions for all compartments, ensuring their existence and uniqueness. We also investigate the reproduction number of the tuberculosis epidemic model, examining how varying contact rates impact disease spread. We apply the predictor-corrector method for the Caputo-Fabrizio fractional derivative to verify the accuracy of our approach. This accurately …

(Si15-093) Dynamics Of The Generalized Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation With A Source Using An Analytical Method, Manish Raghav, Manoj .

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

In the present article, an analytical method is used to obtain hyperbolic, trigonometric, and rational solutions of the generalized nonlinear Schrödinger (GNLS) equation with a source. The ability of solitons to preserve their shapes during propagation makes them suitable for optical fiber communication. Solutions to the generalized nonlinear Schrödinger equation with a source can also describe solitons, and understanding their dynamics helps to design communication systems based on solitons. The analytical method used is compelling and effective for finding exact solutions to various nonlinear evolution equations (NLEEs). To further understand the phenomena, we create 3−D, contour, and 2−D graphs of …

(Si15-107) Mathematical Modeling Of Cancer Dynamics Stability Analysis Of Post Therapy Protection, Rajendran Swetha, Tharmalingam Gunasekar, Kamalendra Kumar, Krishnasamy Sakthivel

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

The study of PSITPS mathematical model is developed to analyze cancer dynamics, focusing on post-therapy protection. The model’s solution is rigorously examined for boundedness and positivity of solutions. Equilibrium points are identified, and numerical methods are employed to study stability. Simulations using accurate cancer data demonstrate the effectiveness of post-treatment protection in controlling cancer spread and minimizing recurrence. Stability analysis confirms the model’s predictive capability, offering valuable insights into long-term patient outcomes. The results highlight the importance of continuous post-treatment care in improving survival rates and reducing disease prevalence. This study provides a framework for optimizing cancer treatment strategies by …

(Si15-064) Permutation Pentanomials Over Finite Fields With Even Characteristic, Shalini Gupta, Sushil Kumar, Ashima .

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

Permutation polynomials over finite fields constitute an active area of research and play an important role in diverse domains, including finite geometry, combinatorial design, coding theory, and cryptography. The study of these polynomials has a long history, and many results have been obtained in recent years. This paper presents new classes of permutation pentanomials based on permutation over the unit circle of finite fields with even characteristic that contribute to the theoretical development of permutation polynomials.

(Si15-120) Exploring Fractional Difference Equations And Their Applications With Mahgoub-Transform, Tharmalingam Gunasekar, Periyasamy Udhayasankar, Prabakaran Raghavendran, Kamalendra Kumar

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

We discuss the introduction and study of the nabla discrete Mahgoub transform along with its defining properties. The transform of fractional sums and fractional differences are derived, demonstrating the applicability of the transform from the computational viewpoint. Employing the transform, fractional difference equations with initial value problems are solved, thereby enhancing the knowledge of their closed forms. As a side-effect of the Mahgoub-transforms, an attractive connection is established, showing that the discrete Mittag-Leffler function acts as the eigenfunction for the Caputo-type fractional difference operator nabla. These results strengthen the core basis for fractional calculus and herald industrial applications in various …

Building A Cohort Of Mentor Teachers To Support Novice Teachers’ Implementation Of Positive Behavior Support, Trauma-Informed, And Culturally-Sustaining Practices, Janet Vanlone, Grace J. Kim (Education Department), Carolyn Dipietro, Hasan Spencer

Faculty Journal Articles

A university was awarded a "Teacher Prep to Practice" grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education for a project titled "Developing Culturally-Relevant Aspiring Teachers." The university collaborated with local school districts to host 2, 3-day "summer institute" professional development sessions, focusing on culturally relevant education, positive behavior support, trauma-informed practices, and effective coaching for novice teachers. The intention was to build a cohort of trained, veteran teachers equipped to serve as mentors for pre-service and early career educators. This paper provides an overview of the summer institute and shares the results of a related mixed-methods research study.

Characterization Of The Fatigue Threshold Behavior Of Uhmwpe, Bethany B. Smith, Anurag Roy, Robert O. Ritchie, Lisa A. Pruitt

Faculty Journal Articles

Ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been the material of choice for bearings in total joint replacements (TJRs) for decades as a result of its excellent wear resistance, chemical inertness, energetic toughness, low friction, and biocompatibility. Utilization of this polymer in orthopedic devices requires oxidation, wear, and fatigue resistance. Balancing these important properties by tailoring processing techniques and modulating microstructural features has been an ongoing endeavor in the field. Research into the clinical applications of UHMWPE has primarily focused on the challenges of wear and oxidation while studies into the realm of fatigue have been more limited. Literature gaps exist in fully understanding …

A Scoping Review Of Oral Feeding Skill Development In Typically Developing Children Part Ii: Exploring Variability In Oral Feeding Skill Descriptions, Amy Delaney, Anna Flatt, Hannah Koepp, Alissa Fial, Katherine C. Hustad

Speech Pathology and Audiology Faculty Research and Publications

Purpose:

This scoping review is the second in a two-part series that aims to synthesize the literature on oral feeding skills development and to create a classification system of observable skills. Building on the findings from Part 1, this article compiles and analyzes the types of feeding skills reported across studies and proposes a framework for standardizing terminology.

Method:

The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. Of the 14 studies identified in Part 1 that focused on feeding skill development, 11 included unique skill descriptions. These skills were coded and …

Trichome Density And Herbivore Behaviour On Tomato Is Influenced By Herbivory, Plant Age, And Leaf Surface, Sunil Aryal, Manish Gautam, Justin George, Gadi V.P. Reddy, Rupesh Kariyat

Entomology and Plant Pathology Faculty Publications and Presentations

Leaf trichomes in plants act as the first line of physical defence against herbivory, in addition to many other reported functions. Although trichomes have been found to vary intraspecifically and can be induced by herbivory, their interactive effects under additional factors, such as plant age and abaxial vs. adaxial leaf surfaces, are less understood. Here, using five common tomato varieties, we explored the effects of these factors and their interactions on trichome type and density. We quantified the densities of Type VI glandular trichomes, non-glandular trichomes, and total trichomes on abaxial and adaxial leaf surfaces, and total leaf trichomes with …

Humanizing Teacher Residencies: Moving At The Speed Of Trust To Advance Professionalism, Advocacy, And Innovation In Educator Preparation, Meghan Cosier, Cynthia Goin, Sally Hawkins, Taylor Stratz

Education Faculty Books and Book Chapters

In response to teacher shortages and inequities in teacher diversity and retention, Saint Mary’s College of California (SMC) launched three equity-centered residencies in partnership with local school districts. These residencies provide paid, yearlong co-teaching experiences with mentor teachers engaged in ongoing professional learning with a focus on building trust-based partnerships while advancing professionalism and innovation. The model prioritized recruiting local candidates in critical need areas, addressing barriers to entry, and ensuring high-quality, LEA-connected coursework. This presentation shared examples and tools from Saint Mary’s College of California’s sustainable, humanizing, and equity-centered teacher residencies and detailed enactment strategies, mentor supports, and practices …

Social Determinants And Stage At Presentation Of Oral Cancer: Insights From The Rio Grande Valley, Texas, Taha Al Hassan, Yamama Al Sammarraie, Noah Alhassan, Michael Machiorlatti, Adam Bender-Heine, Rachel Giese

School of Medicine Publications

Background: This study aims to explore the social determinants of health and stage at presentation of oral cavity cancer in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), a region with significant socioeconomic and healthcare disparities. There has been no comprehensive research conducted to understand the oral cancer burden in the RGV. By filling this critical gap, the study seeks to shed light on regional challenges and inform targeted interventions to improve outcomes.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted using data from University of Texas RGV otolaryngology clinics between January 2019 and June 2022. Of 1,609 patient records reviewed, 64 cases met …

The Article Processing Charge (Apc) Costs How Much?, Tracy M. Cole

Open Access Week 2025

Ways to work with USA Libraries to avoid expensive APC charges and publish Gold Open Access.

USA Libraries, Acquisitions Librarian, Tracy M. Cole, shares how university faculty can publish journal articles and avoid expensive article processing charges, or APC’s. The session will explore the USA Libraries three different transformative agreements that will make your article immediately Gold Open Access, all while avoiding the APC cost barrier. In addition, the session will include a general primer on the types of Open Access, as well as why it matters for research impact, teaching, and access to knowledge.

Measurement-Based Care For Depression In Youth: Practical Considerations For Selecting Measures To Assess Depression, Associated Features And Functioning, Cynthia Garza, Diana Chapa, Catherine Hernandez, Hayley Aramburu, Taryn L. Mayes, Graham J. Emslie

School of Medicine Publications

Identification and management of major depressive disorder (MDD) in children and adolescents remains a significant area of public health need. The process for identifying depression (e.g. screening) and management (e.g. measurement based care [MBC]) is substantially enhanced by utilization of clinical measures and rating scales. Measures can be self- or caregiver reported or clinician rated. They can aid recognition of at-risk individuals for future assessment and assist in clinical diagnosis and management of depression. In addition to assessing symptoms of depression, rating scales can be used to assess important associated features (e.g. anxiety, trauma) and functional outcomes (e.g. quality of …

Refining The Utility Of Late Amniocentesis In High-Risk Pregnancies, Roni Zemet, Ronald J Wapner, Ignatia B Van Den Veyver

Duncan NRI Faculty and Staff Publications

No abstract provided.

Rats With Wings: The Villainization Of The Pigeon And Its Portrayal In Modern Art And Literature, Emily Dutton

Honors Theses

For millennia, humans have had an increasingly intimate relationship with pigeons. These birds have been called a wide range of names and served a myriad of purposes alongside their human handlers; however, since the populations of feral rock pigeons have increased in American cities, the general public has ascribed a negative connotation to the pigeons that they were once closely associated with. The increasing populations of pigeons along with their decreasing perceived usefulness to humanity has led to a sharp decline in their image. This thesis aims to examine how the pigeon became so loathed after it was coveted for …

From Paper To Pixels: How Covid-19 Changed Teachers’ Perspectives Toward Technology, Nora Knight

Honors Theses

As schools transitioned to virtual education during the COVID-19 pandemic, teachers faced numerous instructional, technological, and emotional challenges. The purpose of this research study is to explore how K-5 elementary school teachers navigated the transition to remote instruction during all stages of the pandemic. Additionally, it examines teachers’ perspectives on technology integration in their classrooms throughout COVID-19, focusing on their preparedness, confidence, and instructional decision-making as they adapted to online teaching. A mixed-methods survey was distributed to 108 elementary school teachers in Madison County, Kentucky. The results revealed educators’ feelings and experiences with educational technology before, during, and after the …

The Trojan Women, Otterbein Theatre And Dance Department

2025-2026 Season Productions

No abstract provided.

Mary Victor And The Monster, Otterbein Theatre And Dance Department

2025-2026 Season Productions

No abstract provided.

Gender And Party Polarization In The Us Congress: Hypervisibility And Invisibility, Rosalyn Cooperman

Political Science & International Affairs Articles

The history and practice of party polarization in Congress is a gendered concept. Men have comprised the overwhelming majority of legislators from both parties, served as their party’s leaders, and dominated the party caucuses. As women and women of color have increased their presence in the institution, particularly among Democrats, gender and race have emerged as important themes in understanding party polarization in contemporary congresses. In an analysis of legislative activity of members in the 104th to the 117th Congresses, I find the two most distinct groups of partisans, Democratic women and Republican men, are prominently featured in the opposing …

Otterbein Towers Fall 2025, Otterbein University

Towers Magazine

Around the 'Bein; Innovative Funds; Committed to Career and Community; Faculty Excellence and Innovation; Two Years of Education for the Common Good; Homecoming and Family Weekend; Philanthropy; Alumni Matters; Class Notes.

Letter From The Editors

Araneum: Richmond Journal of American & Global Affairs

It is our pleasure to present to you the Fall 2025 issue of Araneum: Richmond Journal of American & Global Affairs. The following articles and essays cover an array of domestic and international political issues, with a range of original research, analyses, and social and philosophical commentary. This issue reflects the dedicated work of authors, peer reviewers, and editorial board members alike.

What About Us? The Exclusion Of Individuals With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities In The Disaster Planning Process., Elizabeth Ogorek

Honors Theses

Intellectual/Developmental disabilities, or I/DDs, refers to a wide variety of conditions that can affect a person’s ability to process information and their environment. Individuals with I/DDs have a plethora of unique vulnerabilities before, during, and after major disasters. Some of these include difficulty understanding instructions, a tendency to become more easily overwhelmed by external stimuli, and reliance on 1-1 support. Despite this, very little evidence exists both in the research and the practice of emergency management to demonstrate that they have been included in meaningful ways. Many state Emergency Operations Plans, or EOPs, fail to acknowledge intellectually/developmentally disabled individuals as …