Digital Commons Network^™

But Their Emails! Investigating Ideological Language Signatures In Presidential Campaign Emails And Text Messages, Jordan L. Thompson

Electronic Theses and Dissertations 2020 - Present

Although emails and text messages are important means of connecting voters with political candidates, the content of political campaign emails and text messages is understudied. The purpose of these studies is to identify linguistic patterns in candidate emails and texts from the 2024 US presidential election (Study 1) and to determine which linguistic styles are most convincing to readers (Study 2). I examined the linguistic trends in campaign emails and text messages using Linguistic Inquiry Word Count, random forests, and Structural Topic Modeling. Democratic messages had higher LIWC dictionary scores for cognitive processes and word count, providing potential evidence for …

Discordance Between Actual And Perceived Balance Ability Relates To Quality Of Life And Global Cognition In A Clinical Sample Of Parkinson Patients, Daniel S. Peterson, Jason K. Longhurst, Franziska Albrecht, Joanna Weller, Jennifer Vasquez, Myassar Zarif, Mark Gudesblatt, Andrew Hooyman

Physical Therapy Faculty Articles and Research

Background

Objective

Methods

Beyond The Loop: Accountability And The Legal Abyss Of Autonomous Weapon Systems, Ahmad Khalil, Anandha Krishna Raj S

Indonesian Journal of International Law

The emergence of autonomous weapon systems (AWS) poses unprecedented challenges to international humanitarian law (IHL), particularly in relation to criminal responsibility. This article critically examines the existing legal vacuum concerning accountability for violations committed by AWS in the context of armed conflict. By analyzing the fluid and evolving nature of military autonomy and the consequences of removing human oversight from lethal decision-making processes, the article undertakes an in-depth assessment of international criminal law (ICL) mechanisms, including direct and command responsibility. It demonstrates the inadequacy of established legal doctrines to attribute criminal liability to designers, programmers, operators, or commanders when AWS …

Navigating Reintegration: A Qualitative Exploration Of The Challenges And Success Factors For Women Offenders In Society, Arabella Grace A. Velasquez, Beatrice Gabrielle Z. Dyquiangco, Vylet Xummer E. Pimpinio, Tamachi Agnesia Varent, Lander James Luke T. Villanueva, Alfonso B. Astudillo Iii

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

This study explores the different challenges and success factors women ex-offenders face during their reintegration into society after being incarcerated. With the help of 11 women on parole and probation in Baguio City from interviews, the researchers were able to examine their experiences and perspectives. A qualitative research design with descriptive phenomenology was used to gather in-depth insights through face-to-face interviews. Participants were selected through purposive sampling with the assistance of the local Chief Probation and Parole Officer. Data were collected through voice recordings and observations, then transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Superordinate themes emerged, namely Reintegration Struggles and …

Shades And Shapes: Intersectional Perspectives On Filipino Women’S Skin Color And Body Build, Aliah Jazz G. Alonte, Kelly Nyle M. Baligod, Mi Tang, Yuzhu Zhao, Liezl R. Astudillo

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

This study examines how Filipino women evaluate physical attractiveness, likeability, and social competence based on variations in skin color and body build, traits shaped by colonial legacies and reinforced by contemporary media. A 2×2 factorial experimental design was used, involving 180 female college students (ages 18–24), who rated target images that varied by skin color (light vs. dark) and body build (slim vs. large). While neither skin color nor body build alone had a significant main effect on perceptions of attractiveness, a significant interaction emerged: slim, dark-skinned individuals were rated more attractive than their light-skinned counterparts, whereas light-skinned individuals were …

Navigating Ambiguity: An In-Depth Exploration Of Situationships In Contemporary Romantic Relationships, Shiywonee Khanalee D.J. Delizo, Yonah Adamae R. Dapliyan, Hildebrand Tridant A. Ban-Eg, Calvine Audric F. Canlas, Eliecea Red Yusingco, Neil Ivan D. Tong, Alfonso B. Astudillo Iii

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

This qualitative study examined the phenomenon of situationships, which is defined as a romantic involvement that lacks clear commitment, boundaries, and labels. Situationships have surfaced in the context of modern dating culture with the rise of dating apps, in which people may display behaviors typical of couples but are contradictory to their traditional definitions of romantic relationships. This study explored the characteristics that define situationships, how people manage their inherent ambiguity, and why individuals prefer situationships over traditional established relationships. The data was gathered through in-depth interviews with 12 participants and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis of their experiences. The …

Beyond The Swipe: Understanding Observers’ Perceptions Of The Motivations And Behaviors Of Online Dating Users, Sarah Maxine A. Lucero, Maria Nicole C. Moreno, Calvine Felice T. Santiago, Liezl Astudillo

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

This study explores how observers—individuals who observe but do not engage in online dating—perceive the motivations and behaviors of dating app users. While research has extensively explored the experiences of active users, a notable gap exists in understanding the perspectives of those who remain outside these digital spaces. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), it captured how observers constructed meaning around online relationships within the Philippine cultural context. Interviews with 11 young adults elicited that observers generally perceive online dating as convenience-driven and less genuine than conventional relationships. Notably, participants compared app-based connections to culturally established rituals such as “panliligaw,” or …

Beyond The Dark Hours: A Qualitative Exploration Of The Experiences And Coping Strategies Of Graveyard Shift Workers, Jerelie Robert Muyalde Alcause, Rhuss Maico Mangahas Bartolome, Jayvee Ysulan Bagaporo, Salvador Franz Niño Vargas Aquino, Ian Patrick P. Aquino, Arbee Ray Tokyas Akit, Alfonso B. Astudillo Iii

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

Graveyard shifts are often correlated with poor working hours and may lead to a reduced level of cognitive and emotional function. Current studies focus on the physical effects of this schedule but often overlook the unique challenges of maintaining a work-life balance under such conditions. Through in-depth interviews, this study explores the psychological and emotional impact of long-term graveyard shifts, along with the coping mechanisms workers use to balance their work and personal lives. The findings of this study reveal that graveyard shift workers commonly experience social isolation, often distancing themselves from friends and family. Emotionally, they report feelings of …

Civil Status, Single: The Emotional Experiences And Transformations Of Single Teenage Filipino Mothers Across Generations In Their Transition To Adulthood, Ana Sofia V. Collado, Gabrielle Lumongsod, Ramona Motos, Ysabel Ronquillo, Susan Grace Tana Neri

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

Single teenage mothers in the Philippines face unique emotional and psychological challenges as they transition from adolescence to adulthood. These challenges often stem from societal stigma, guilt, and the loss of personal aspirations, which negatively affect their mental health and self-identity. Guided by Intersectionality theory, this study explores the emotional experiences of single teenage Filipino mothers, aiming to understand how early motherhood influences their emotional well-being, identity formation, and personal growth. Six Filipino women, aged 18 to 55, were purposively selected to provide a diverse range of generational perspectives. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed using Braun …

Exploring The Intersection Of Faith, Empathy, And Healthcare Trust In The Experience Of Informal Caregivers, Dr. Julie Yonker, Elizabeth Yuniwo, Jamie Lee, Mesalenuo Tsurho, Meral Moawad, Toluwani Adekunle

University Faculty Publications and Creative Works

• Informal caregivers—adults providing unpaid medical or physical care to family or friends with adult-onset conditions—are essential yet often unrecognized contributors to U.S. health care. 
• One in four adults serve as caregivers, providing care valued at over $600 billion (AARP 2025). 
• Despite their vital role, many lack training, social support, and connection to professional care networks. 
• Public health professionals can promote sustainable, whole-person care by integrating caregiver training and referral systems into practice.

To Ban Or Not To Ban? Should Youth Social Media Use Be Regulated?, Leena Hilaly

Opinion Matters: Student Analyses of World News

This piece discusses Australia's recent social media youth ban and the negative implications of implementing sweeping government legislation on privacy, personal liberties, and state power.

How Tip Geometry Controls Fracture In Ductile Polymer Glasses And Brittle Elastomers, Shi-Qing Wang, Zehao Fan, Asal Y. Siavoshani

University Research

Based on spatially-temporally resolved polarized optical microscopy (str-POM) measurements, we studied the fracture behavior of ductile and brittle glassy polymers as well as highly crosslinked rubbers to draw the following conclusions: (1) there is no tip plasticity below a threshold load in ductile plastics such as polyethylene terephthalate. (2) In ductile polymer glasses, before tip yielding at a common tip stress, the remote load scales with notch length a as a−1/2, in agreement with the Inglis solution. (3) A finite stress saturation zone is observed in elastomers at loading levels even well below fatigue threshold due to significant crack tip …

Pediatric Simulation And Emergency Nurse Confidence, Katherine E. Wright

Student Scholarly Projects

Practice Problem: Nurses working in a general emergency department (GED) with a low (3.3%) pediatric patient volume expressed a lack of confidence caring for complex pediatric patients.

PICOT: In general emergency department nurses (P), how does participating in a pediatric simulation event (I), compared to current practice (C), affect nurse confidence scores caring for pediatric patients (O) over 6 weeks (T)?

Evidence: A review of over 17 evidence-based resources found good quality evidence that suggested participating in a simulation event can improve nurse confidence.

Intervention: Over six weeks, GED staff members participated in a pediatric simulation event. The simulation utilized …

Hybrid Diabetes Coaching Model: Integrating In-Person And Telemedicine Strategies To Improve Glycemic Outcomes, Sandis A. Mundackal

Student Scholarly Projects

Practice Problem: In patients with type 2 diabetes, poor glycemic control among adults remains a significant challenge in primary care settings, particularly within federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) that serve underserved populations. At the FQHC practice site, patients were managed using standard care with quarterly follow- up visits, without a structured hybrid coaching approach. This inconsistency contributed to a high number of patients with hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1c) levels ≥ 9%, placing them at increased risk for diabetes-related complications.

PICOT Question: In adults with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes (HgbA1c ≥ 9%) (P), does monthly hybrid coaching delivered through in-person and/or …

How British Toy Company Jellycat Should Manage Demand And Supply-Chain Volatility In An Uncertain Economic Landscape, Ava Heckmann

SPARK Symposium Presentations

Jellycat is a London-based toy company established in 1999 that gained traction during the pandemic as a result of a viral social media craze driven by nostalgia and renewed focus on mental well-being among adults and Generation Z in particular. Jellycat toys became an international sensation–sold in 77 countries worldwide with majority of sales from the United States, China, EU, and the UK (Jellycat, n.d.). Their plush toys are produced primarily in China and Vietnam (Jellycat, n.d.). This unanticipated social media trend caused a spike in demand that the company struggled to match as supply was constrained due to recent …

Adapting A Behavioral Intervention For Caregivers Of Children With Down Syndrome Or Fragile X Syndrome: A Pilot Study Of Rubi-Dd., Allison D. Blackburn, Walker S. Mckinney Ph.D., Allison M. Birnschein, Anna J. Esbensen, Shelley Mckinley, Hilary Rosselot, Emily K. Hoffman, Craig Erickson, Rebecca Shaffer

Manuscripts, Articles, Book Chapters and Other Papers

Challenging behaviors, including noncompliance, aggression, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, are common among individuals with Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) and Down Syndrome (DS). To identify treatment needs specific to these populations, we conducted focus groups with caregivers and educators and used their input to adapt an evidence-based caregiver training program originally designed for caregivers of autistic children (i.e., The Research Units in Behavioral Intervention; RUBI). We then completed a feasibility trial in which five families of children with FXS and four families of children with DS completed a nine-session caregiver training program targeting behavioral principles, syndrome-specific information, and visual supports tailored to …

Advancing Environmental Justice Through Chemical Education: Perspective From New Orleans’ Water And Air Quality Challenges, Ja’Lynn Keller, Sita Aggarwal, Rami A. Al-Horani, Morewell Gasseller, Navneet Goyal

Faculty and Staff Publications

New Orleans, Louisiana, faces profound environmental vulnerabilities arising from the convergence of industrial pollution, urban runoff, and climate change–driven weather events. This paper examines systemic challenges affecting water and air quality in the region, with particular focus on low-income and marginalized communities disproportionately burdened by environmental degradation. Drawing on educational and community-based monitoring initiatives at Xavier University of Louisiana and Southeastern Louisiana University, we highlight the integration of student learning with real-time data collection of contaminants such as fecal coliforms, heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina revealed significant fecal contamination in sediment layers, …

Henri Nouwen: Theologian, Caregiver - How Do His Writings Support Informal Caregivers?, Dr. Julie Yonker

University Faculty Publications and Creative Works

•Analyze the Impact and Visibility of Informal Caregivers   •Evaluate Henri Nouwen’s Theological Framework for Caregiving   •Develop Practical Support Strategies for Faith Communities

Spiritual Scaffolding: Integrating Acute Care Nursing Empathy And Caregiver Religiosity To Enhance Well-Being For The Work Of The Informal Caregiver, Dr. Julie Yonker, Alyssa Pokharel

University Faculty Publications and Creative Works

Informal caregivers—adults providing unpaid medical or physical care to family or friends with adult-onset conditions— are essential yet often unrecognized contributors to U.S. health care. • One in four adults serve as caregivers, providing care valued at over $600 billion (AARP 2025). • Despite their vital role, many lack training, social support, and connection to professional care networks. • Health professionals can promote sustainable, whole-person care by integrating caregiver training and referral systems into acute care practice.

Analysis Of Novel Cannabis Products Labeled As Containing Thc-Jd, Kaelas R. Munger, Carlton C. B. Bone, Killian M. Anreise, Robert M. Strongin

Chemistry Faculty Publications and Presentations

Objective:

THC-JD (tetrahydrocannabioctyl) is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid with an eight-carbon C3 side chain, present in only trace amounts in hemp, requiring synthesis for commercial use. It has been promoted as potentially 19 times more potent than delta-9-THC, consistent with enhanced CB1 receptor affinities for cannabinoids with 7-8 carbon C3 side chains. While one peer-reviewed report identified THC-JD (tetrahydrocannabioctyl) in Japanese online products, an anecdotal report from the U.S. suggests mislabeling. Method: To inform regulatory efforts and consumer awareness and to address these discrepancies, this study chemically analyzed five U.S. commercial cannabis vape products marketed as containing THC-JD. Results: Utilizing GC-MS …

Key Elements Of Mission-Based Urban Agriculture In The United States Aimed At Addressing The Social Determinants Of Health, Jordan Losavio

LSU Doctoral Dissertations

Urban agriculture (UA) in the United States (U.S.) is increasingly positioned as a multi-domain strategy for addressing social determinants of health (SDOH), yet evidence is fragmented and often focused on participant outcomes rather than the organizational and environmental conditions that determine whether those benefits can be sustained, expanded, or maintained over time. This dissertation uses an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design to clarify (1) what SDOH outcomes are associated with UA in the peer-reviewed literature, (2) which internal and external factors leaders perceive as driving UA organizational success or failure, and (3) which factors predict comparative organizational functioning across a national …

What Holds High-Speed Rail Back: Lessons From Global Systems And California’S Experience, Deepak K. Sharma, Rajnish Lekhi, Scott Parr

Mineta Transportation Institute

This report examines benefits and challenges of integrating California High-Speed Rail (CHSR) with other rail systems and reviews California legislation impacting HSR’s contracting and financing alternatives. The research compares CHSR with high-speed rail systems around the world to identify similarities and differences in costs, speeds, ridership, and operating conditions. It also reviews Japan’s Land Readjustment Act as a model for value capture and land assembly and explores international experiences on rail integration, along with U.S. cases from the East Coast and Los Angeles. A review of California’s transportation legislation highlights how laws for highways and bridges differ from those for …

Archer Snaps By Blessing In These Guys, Varren Coehn L. Gan, Enzel Hansburg S. Khee, Darrion Kyler C. Lim, Paul Ryan L. So, Jeffrey S. Xu, Nerisse Estrada

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

Archer Snaps was established on July 24, 2024, by five (5) senior high school students from De La Salle University-Manila (DLSU) with the goal of capturing meaningful student experiences through a personalized photo booth service. Inspired by the slogan, “You will never realize the value of a moment until it becomes a memory,” Archer Snaps turns everyday campus moments into lasting memorabilia that celebrate Lasallian pride. Launched as a sole proprietorship during the DLSU ABM Bazaar, the business offered photo strips with exclusive DLSU-themed borders explicitly designed for the Lasallian community. Within its first two (2) months, Archer Snaps sold …

Terrapiya, Rein Valerie A. Acuzar, Gabrielle D. Dingalsan, Marian Edilynne G. Lim, Vincent Andre B. Namuag, Xian Iverson A. Tan, Roderick Pangindian

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

Terrapiya was formed in 2024 by a team of ABM students at DLSU-Manila to address the lack of accessible greenery in urban spaces. Specializing in customizable miniature terrariums, Terrapiya has grown from a school project into a promising venture, now entering early commercialization through successful market testing and direct sales. Its advantage lies in customizable designs, locally sourced materials, and a strong sustainability ethos. The business possesses no proprietary rights but operates as a sole proprietorship to streamline decision-making processes under Rein Acuzar. She is supported by a proficient team comprising Ms. Lim, Mr. Tan, Ms. Dingsalsan, and Mr. Namuag, …

South’In, Sa’Tin: Satin-Lined Caps To Counter Hair Thinning, Gian Dormido, Ethan Rafael F. Navarra, Franzin Esra R. Quintana, Sofia Angela M. Ordoña, Generie M. Manuel

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

Founded in May 2024 to address scalp and hair health issues common among Gen Zs, South’In was organized by five De La Salle University SHS ABM students. The group conceptualized and crafted a bull cap brand that innovates traditional headwear through satin-lined caps. With an investment of ₱25,000.00, the venture initially earned ₱5,723.30 in net profit during its initial launch. Operating as a sole proprietorship with a functional structure, South’In offers its distinct fusion of satin’s hair and scalp benefits with everyday cap comfort, making it unique both in purpose and product. The cap design comes with three interchangeable fins …

Skitchi, Kristine Nicole Q. Vila, Julianne Danielle C. Briones Ms, Chester A. Del Rosario, Spyrus A. Garcia, Megan Samantha L. Te, Ma. Louise Gena Crisologo

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

Skitchi is a bag business established in 2024 by five students from De La Salle University-Manila’s Accountancy, Business, and Management strand, namely Kristine Vila, Megan Te, Julianne Briones, Chester Del Rosario, and Spyrus Garcia. Operating under a sole proprietorship, the team shares a unified vision of promoting sustainability through practical, affordable, and stylish canvas bags with patches crafted from “katsa” or recycled sackcloth. In response to the growing issue of fabric waste, Skitchi sources leftover sackcloth from local stores in Marikina. The bags are produced in Bulacan, with patches sewn by Marikina seamstresses, demonstrating the company’s commitment to sustainable practices …

Opulace, Charisse Isabel V. Alagar, Michael Andre M. Mempin, Kristianna N. Naron, Zei Alexa S. Salazar, Christine A. Maranon

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

Opulace is a student-led business founded in October 2024. It responds to the increased demand among Generation Z consumers for stylish, affordable accessories or ‘anik-aniks.’ The brand sells shoe charms, shoe chains, and mesh shoelaces, offering customers jewelry for leveling up their fashion in a unique manner: by adorning their footwear. Operating as a sole proprietorship, Opulace is controlled by four founders: Zei Salazar (General Manager), Andre Mempin (Operations Manager), Kristianna Naron (Finance Manager), and Charisse Alagar (Marketing Manager), whose positions align with their respective strengths. Mentors Chester Lin, Christine Marañon, and Norie Ecija support the team and provide strategic …

Kartera, Arwyn G. Alignay, Julianne Skye Alexandria A. Antonio, Jacob Mark R. Carlos, Lance P. Ercia, Ricardo P. Macatangay Iii, Christine A. Maranon

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

Kartera was formed in July 2024, bridging the gap between physical and digital wallets while combining a convenient form and sustainability. These factors distinguish its product offerings from a recently stagnant set of commercial wallets. The venture is in an early growth stage in the wallet industry, having recently launched its flagship product. The product, a no-fold wallet constructed from Piñatex, a sustainable pineapple leather alternative, was launched in February 2025 during the ABM Bazaar and initiated the framework for design protection for future products. Kartera functions under the sole proprietorship of Lance Ercia, who is supported by four officers: …

Love And Lust: A Philosophical Assessment Of The Morality Of Watching Pornography In Romantic Relationships Through Aristotle’S Function Of Rationality And Virtue Ethics, Missy Gabrielle Magtibay Dimayuga, Kaisser Brent Sanchez Eufemio, Annika Almhyr B. Rivera, Aiyana Chantel Go Tuvilla, Maria Karla Ysabelle Ticzon Vesorio, Naoemi Mikka Ella Weill

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

This study examines the moral acceptability of watching pornography while being in a romantic relationship. It explores the role of consent and intent in determining whether the aforementioned act is morally acceptable or morally unacceptable. Using Aristotle’s Function of Rationality and his Virtue Ethics, the study establishes that the moral acceptability of pornography consumption is subjective, and its acceptability is not dictated by a universal and unconditional moral rule, but is rather dictated by the perspective, situation, and dynamic of the individuals in a relationship themselves. The study argues that the act may be morally acceptable given that there is …

Star Apple (Chrysophyllum Cainito) Leaf & Banana (Musa Acuminata) Peel Extract As A Hydrophobic Coating For Cardboard, Ferdinand F. Begnaen, Missy Noelle C. Velasco, Mary Catherine M. Alfonso, Sharee Mae A. Tamayo, Ashley Irish V. Balneg, Crizanne R. Barsatan, David Isaiah S. Gengania, Rivi N. Wacnisen, Nikah Mei I. James

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress Conference Proceedings

This research aims to find a natural way to make cardboard more water-resistant, increasing its recyclability and lifespan by using banana peels (BP) and star apple leaves (SAL). The inspiration behind this study comes from commercial coatings that are made from synthetic chemicals, such as fluoropolymers and silicone, that can harm the environment. Since cardboard easily absorbs water, the researchers tested different mixtures of BP and SAL to determine which combination works best as a coating. Using ethanol maceration to extract hydrophobic compounds, epicuticular wax was obtained from SAL, while powdered BP was macerated with hexane. The extracts were concentrated …