Digital Commons Network^™

From Potholes To Perceived Social Support: Community Influences On Individuals With Mobility Disabilities And Their Care Teams In New Orleans, Kelsey Witmeier, Gabrielle Gonzalez, Michael Norman, Mary Delahoussaye, Phil Wilson, Tung-Sung Tseng

Journal of the Louisiana Public Health Association

Background: Little is known about the role of community in influencing the experiences, needs, and well-being among individuals with mobility impairments and disabilities (IMIDs), caregivers, and service providers in New Orleans. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 individuals who identified as IMIDs, caregivers, and service providers, who were recruited using convenience sampling. Transcripts were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was conducted to identify key themes. Results: Three themes were found: 1) community barriers and facilitators, 2) the community’s role in perceived belongingness, and 3) the unique influences of the community on caregivers. Conclusion: Community influences the experiences of IMIDs …

Association Between Food Insecurity And Nervous System Disorders In Caddo Parish, La: A Call To Action For Health, Megan Gremillion, Morgan Uebinger, Claire Crosby, Kaitlyn Tholen, Marie Vazquez Morgan, Ammar Husan

Journal of the Louisiana Public Health Association

Background: Food insecurity (FI)–the lack of access to affordable, nutritious food–affects millions of Americans. Caddo Parish, Louisiana, is of interest due to high FI prevalence and socioeconomic risk factors. While FI is known to exacerbate chronic health issues, its association with neurological health remains understudied, especially in high-risk communities. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult patients in Caddo Parish in 2022 using Epic Electronic Medical Record data to identify diagnoses of migraine, dementia, and stroke—the top neurological causes of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in the United States. FI status was determined using the Hunger Vital Sign screening questionnaire. …

Unpacking The Role Of Virtual Exchange In Promoting Student Well-Being, Mona Pearl, Kelly Tzoumis, Allison E. Hill, Spencer D. Sutherland

Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education

Educational institutions and workplaces are grappling with the task of promoting the well-being of their students and employees. From 2021 to 2023, students from Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Mexico, The Netherlands, and the US participated in virtual exchange collaborations in the form of global virtual teams (GVTs) and were assessed pre (n=201) and post (n=251) their GVTs experience. We used structural equation modeling (SEM) to assess changes in learner well-being from participation in GVTs. Based on the impact to student perceived well-being from the GVT experience, we found important results that can be useful for both employers and academic institutions …

A Real Medical Mission Clinic To Manage Cardiovascular Health Inequities And Improve Outcomes, Cynthia A. Borum, Byron Haitas

Biennial Convention (CONV)

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in the United States.^1-4 Today, a gap exists with cardiovascular inequities in underserved communities relating to access to cardiac care.^1-4

In 2022, an experienced cardiologist and nurse practitioner leader established a once-a-month free faith-based cardiology clinic in Nashville and surrounding counties in Tennessee. The goal is to improve access to cardiac care^1-3 and contribute to quality health outcomes for the underserved.

Structure: A 501(c)(3) non-profit clinic structure was the framework for implementing the faith-based medical cardiology clinic.⁵ The faith-based cardiology clinic occurs one Saturday each month with voluntary …

Patriarchal Logics In Entrepreneurial Ecosystems And Outcomes For Female Entrepreneurs, Alexandria Krause Matlack

Dissertations

This dissertation examines how patriarchal logics shape the efficiency of funding for female entrepreneurs by comparing two U.S. entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) within the same state: Kansas City and St. Louis. Although these EEs are geographically proximate and structurally comparable, St. Louis has nearly twice as many women-led ventures as Kansas City receiving institutional capital. Drawing on 31 semi-structured interviews, the study includes 20 entrepreneurs, 11 from Kansas City (5 women, 6 men) and 9 from St. Louis (4 women, 5 men), of whom are CEOs of startups founded between 2014 and 2022 and recipients of institutional funding (e.g., grants, angel, …

November 21, 2025 Minutes, Swosu Faculty Senate

Faculty Senate Minutes

No abstract provided.

From Red To Green: Using Gis To Examine Colorado’S Inequitable Housing Patterns In Urban Greenspace Accessibility, Jessica Howard Karr

Geography and the Environment: Graduate Student Capstones

Urban greenspaces provide numerous benefits to the mental and physical health of nearby people who access these locations for physical recreation, social interaction, and contemplation. Discriminatory urban planning policies from the past, such as redlining, have ensured that greenspace access is not always equitable for communities with diverse racial and socioeconomic compositions. This project utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to determine relationships between tree cover canopy, greenspace percentage within a census tract, and greenspace accessibility within a graded census tract system based on demographics and historic redlining locations in the Colorado cities of Denver, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo. The results …

Box Elder County Tourism Adventure Passport: Pilot Program Geospatial Analysis, Evaluation, And Next Steps., Janessa Knotts

Geography and the Environment: Graduate Student Capstones

The Box Elder County Tourism Office created the Tourism Adventure Passport Program and launched a pilot program in July 2025. GIS was used to engage and encourage visitors and locals to visit some or all sites listed and submit information, including GPS points, to participate in the program. To promote tourism in Box Elder County, the program highlights well known sites like the Golden Spike National Historic Park, along with other, less-known sites. The pilot program data was used to create a geospatial analysis and an analysis of the number of visits each site received and number of visitors were …

The Impact Of Food Insecurity On The Physical And Mental Health Of Food Service Workers And Their Households, Pedro Andrade

Undergraduate Research Symposium Posters

Food insecurity in the United States continues to be a persistent problem, as this household stressor has worsened in the past decade. The prevalence of food insecurity varies by demographic; however, income is a key factor when discussing food security status. One group experiencing food insecurity, but often overlooked when talking about solutions, is food service workers. This research sought to understand the impact of food insecurity on food service workers and their households. A literature review was conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the associations between food insecurity and physical health, mental health, household health, and occupational and …

Simulation Of Fluid Flow Based On Navier Stokes Equations, Ricardo Marquez, Javier Perez

Undergraduate Research Symposium Posters

This work presents a computational study of incompressible flow based on the Navier-Stokes equations using finite element method. The Crank-Nicolson approximation is used for discretizing the time derivative. The study consists of investigating the effect of the choice of finite elements and the size of the time step in obtaining the numerical velocity and pressure. This is illustrated with FreeFEM++ simulations of the von Karman benchmark flow problem. Profiles of drag, lift and pressure drop will be presented in time.

Relationship Between Caffeine Use And Eating Disorders, Hannah Segura, Maegan Nation

Undergraduate Research Symposium Posters

Eating disorders are a spectrum of cognitive, behavioral, and physical symptoms related to eating and compensatory weight management behaviors. Body image concerns can be a significant risk factor for various disorders, such as anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Additionally, eating disorders are commonly comorbid with other psychiatric disorders. Supplement usage such as performance enhancing supplements is becoming increasingly common, especially among younger populations. Using different supplements has been shown to put adolescents at an increased risk for body dysmorphia, disordered eating behaviors, as well as other potentially harmful health effects, like electrolyte complications, heart issues, or even death. Across the …

Gendered Patterns Of Trauma & Ptsd Symptoms Among Latine Americans: A Mixed-Methods Analysis, Abigail Panariso, Gerardo Garcia, Melanie Garcia, Yajairy Carbrales, Mariam Sultan

Undergraduate Research Symposium Posters

Latine communities in the U.S. experience disproportionate exposure to traumatic events, contributing to behavioral health disparities such as elevated rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and underutilization of mental health care. Gender, as a key social determinant of health, influences both types of trauma encountered and the severity of symptoms. Little research has tackled how gender intersects with structural inequities within Latine populations, such as discrimination, immigration stress, and socioeconomic marginalization. This mixed-methods study assessed gender differences in trauma experiences and PTSD symptoms among 328 Latine American adults (148 men, 180 women) recruited through an online survey. We predicted gender …

Feasibility And Preliminary Efficacy Of Uneven Terrain Gait Training In Lower Limb Prosthesis Users, Gabriel Bacani, Dawn Ruby, Sara Hazen, Katie Bricarell

Undergraduate Research Symposium Posters

Lower limb prosthesis users (LLPUs) often feel less confident walking in their day-to-day lives. Even with rehabilitation, some individuals do not develop the skills and confidence needed to walk across different terrains. Walking practice on varied terrains may be a method for increasing skill and confidence. The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility of implementing an uneven terrain training program for LLPUs. Three LLPUs completed a series of 12 training sessions on an uneven terrain treadmill. Participants walked for up to 12 trials per session with each bout lasting up to 2 minutes. The terrain increased in …

The Mathematics Of Motion: Applying Derivatives To Fluid Systems, Sayla Daily

Undergraduate Research Symposium Posters

Mathematical modeling through differential equations provides a basis for understanding change in physical and engineering systems. My project explores the transition from single-variable derivatives to multivariable partial derivatives and their applications in describing engineering applications. Beginning with the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, derivatives are introduced as measures of change, quantifying relationships such as velocity and acceleration. The study then extends to partial derivatives, which represents systems influenced by multiple variables, including spatial and temporal factors. These principles are applied to model fluid motion, and pressure gradients, including the Navier–Stokes equations governing fluid dynamics. By linking mathematics with engineering applications, this …

Martial Arts Studies: A Commentary On The Exploration Of Consciousness In Modern Martial Arts, James H. Sutton

Journal of Conscious Evolution

The rapid globalization of martial arts has reconditioned how the beliefs, customs, and philosophies of traditionally based systems are interpreted and applied in modern practice. As contemporary scholarship struggles to accommodate the cultural histories, myths, and traditions that permeate the perception of martial arts in modern contexts, the focus of inquiry has shifted towards explaining cultural variations in practice rather than understanding the nature of self-awareness derived from self-practice. Consequently, the deeper meanings of martial arts as pathways to personal and transpersonal awareness are often invalidated in favor of objective and verifiable explications. In short, the role of consciousness is …

A Triple Bottom Line Analysis Of Food Waste-To-Bioenergy At California University Campuses: Social Enablers Break Down Economic Barriers, Anjali Sharma

Master's Theses

Greenhouse gas emissions from food waste (FW) and energy generation are two major hurdles to the climate crisis. Previous research shows that waste-to-energy systems may provide a solution to both these challenges, particularly at university campuses, due to their high FW generation and high energy needs. Despite this, few academic institutions in California, US, have adopted waste-to-energy systems, and campus-specific challenges and opportunities associated with these systems remain underexplored. For this study, I use an Environmental, Economic, and Social (EES) lens to document the current landscape of FW management and implementation of food waste-to-bioenergy at campuses in each of the …

An Examination Of Disparities In Adhd Diagnosis Between Men And Women, Julia Holloway

University Honors Theses

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has become an increasingly popular area of study over the last decade. The rise in cases over the same period likely explains this trend, as does ADHD’s status as one of the most commonly encountered neurodevelopmental disorders. While much of this research has served as an invaluable asset to both practitioners and patients there are still blind spots which have yet to be addressed by the existing body of research. This progress in our understanding of ADHD has gone far in illuminating the biases which have set the precedent for treatment and diagnosis, however, widespread understanding …

Art And Critical Thinking, Audrey Nixon

University Honors Theses

The voice of art molds and dictates norms and behaviors of society. Art eases people into sitting with discomfort or alternate ideas of the world. I work with mixed-media collage to respond and react to culture and the current American political climate. Through the act of expressing and working through thoughts and emotions, art teaches people how to process, it teaches histories of resistance, and empathy. Artists have the ability to engage their audience to critically think about what is happening in our world. By channeling expression and passion, art can help people make necessary connections about concepts that lead …

Doc 2025-19 Proposal For New Bachelor Of Science In Data Analytics, University Of Dayton. Academic Policies Committee

Senate Documents

The Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students with the skills to collect, manage, analyze, and interpret complex data. Building on foundations in mathematics, statistics, and computer science, the program emphasizes hands-on experience with programming, databases, regression, and machine learning. Students learn to translate data into actionable insights, preparing them for careers in data analytics, business intelligence, and related fields, as well as for advanced study in data science and analytics.

High Phosphorus Intake: The Role Of Phosphorus And Health Outcomes Through The Lens Of High Phosphorus Additive Intake, Taigen M. Mayes

Senior Honors Theses

Phosphorus is a commonly consumed mineral in the traditional human diet and plays an essential role in human physiological functions. With the use of phosphate additives, high phosphate intake has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. Phosphate is regulated in the body by a homeostasis mechanism. A disruption to the homeostasis has a link to various pathologies such as bone health, cardiovascular disease, cancers, and kidney issues. Various studies have investigated the role of phosphate and its effects on human function. Bone health, cardiovascular disease, cancer, premature aging, dementia, and kidney disease are linked with high phosphorus intake.

Understanding The U.S. Maternal Healthcare System At The Intersection Of Asian American Birth Outcomes And The Model Minority Stereotype: A Literature Review, Sophia Hevel

University Honors Theses

This thesis aims to explore the maternal healthcare system in the United States as it pertains to Asian American birthing people, the ways in which their racial, ethnic, and cultural identities are interacted with within the U.S. Healthcare system, and subsequently the detrimental effects of the medical system's devaluation of culturally specific birthing and postpartum practices have on Asian American birthing experiences. This will be accomplished through an exploration of the United States' maternal healthcare system, or rather, its crisis; how Asian Americans navigate a system that has not been structured to support their specific needs; and lastly, a discussion …

Who Was It Truly For?: Bernard Bragg, David Hays, And National Theatre Of The Deaf, Eni Buckhanan

Honors Theses

National Theatre of the Deaf is known for being the first professional sign language theatre company in the United States; however, the complexities of its origins and founders are rarely examined. This thesis explores the relationship between Deaf performer and educator Bernard Bragg and hearing set designer David Hays, along with what was prioritized in the creation of the company, and the aftereffects of these choices on the National Theatre of the Deaf and their Deaf and hearing audiences.

Bragg and Hays began correspondence in 1966, as they developed plans for what would become the National Theatre of the Deaf. …

Exploring Private And Governmental Interest In Bitcoin, Mina Khadem

Undergraduate Theses, Capstones, and Recitals

Regardless of one’s opinion, Bitcoin’s presence in the global economy is growing. However, Bitcoin’s emerging role and its implications are greatly under-researched, particularly in the context of government interest in Bitcoin. Nonetheless, increased private investment in Bitcoin and increased government interest in formally incorporating Bitcoin into existing economic systems, suggest a new development within the global economy that must be investigated. Through qualitative text analysis of pro-Bitcoin narratives presented in digital media platforms and official government policies and public statements, this thesis explores how private and government interest in Bitcoin is explained and framed within these contexts. This study finds …

Bridging Worlds: Cultivating Cultural Intelligence For Transformative English Classrooms, Alvaro R. Larrea Salazar

Senior Honors Theses

This project explores the integration of the Cultural Intelligence (CQ) framework in the secondary English classroom to enhance inclusivity and classroom dynamics. It argues that by understanding and adapting to diverse cultural contexts, teachers can create a more inclusive and welcoming environment, improve teacher-student relationships, and facilitate more effective classroom management. Through a focus on lesson planning, discussion, and overall instruction, this thesis aims to show how CQ can enrich literature studies and foster cultural awareness among students. Drawing on existing research, it demonstrates that a high CQ in educators is linked to transformational leadership and positive student outcomes, ultimately …

Non-Invasive Infection Detection Framework: Smartphone-Based Hematologic And Thermal Biomarker Monitoring, Nafi Us Sabbir Sabith

Dissertations (1934 -)

Infectious diseases remain one of the leading global causes of illness and death in both community and hospital settings. Infections lead to lasting health issues, such as life-threatening chronic conditions or even cancer. Early detection is crucial for timely intervention, such as isolation and treatment. Hematology originated from the Greek word haima, meaning blood. It is a unique discipline in medicine that involves the study of blood and its contents. White blood cells (WBC) are at the forefront of the body’s immune system. WBCs are categorized into five main subtypes: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Monitoring the total WBC …

Experiences Of College Students With Visual Disabilities During The Covid-19, Bhuwan Shankar Bhatt, Kanchan K. Joshi, Purna B. Lamichhane

Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education

This case study explores the experiences of Nepalese college students with visual disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic, applying Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory as a theoretical framework. Through in-depth interviews with eight students with visual disabilities studying bachelor and master level at a public college, this research describes challenges and chances across five primary domains of the ecological perspective. The study showed the critical role of immediate support circles in academic and social contexts, the needed interactions between parents and educational institutions, observable gaps in institutional support and government policies, and the dual role of the pandemic as a challenge and …

An Investigation Of International Students’ Satisfaction With Their University Experience Using An Expectation Confirmation Theory Lens, Mehraz Sarker, Jonathan Worae, Jason D. Edgerton

Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education

This study examines how various challenges and support systems influence international students’ satisfaction, as reflected in their intention to recommend their university. Using the Expectation Confirmation Theory (ECT), it examines whether students’ initial expectations moderate the relationships between challenges and satisfaction, and between institutional support and satisfaction. Analysis of survey data (N = 712) indicates that the majority of international students report satisfaction with their university experience. Ordinal logistic regression analyses reveal that perceived institutional support and higher initial expectations are associated with increased likelihood of recommending the university. Conversely, academic and discrimination challenges are associated with decreased likelihood of …

Cultivating A Sense Of Community: International Students Navigating Community Engaged Learning Opportunities In Line With Their Social Goals, Katherine Lyon, Nicole Malette

Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education

International students often envision their time studying abroad with particular academic, professional, social, linguistic, and identity-related goals in mind (Fong, 2011; Jones, 2013; Montgomery & McDowell, 2009; Page, 2019; Page & Chahboun, 2019). Post-secondary institutions can provide resources and opportunities to help this heterogeneous group of students bring their vision into fruition. One such opportunity is community engaged learning (CEL), which has been shown to help students expand their social and academic abilities as they make contributions to an organization (Arnold, 2019; Greenberg, London & McKay, 2020; Mayer et al., 2019). Through in-depth interviews with 25 new international students who …

The Prospector, November 21, 2025, Utep Student Publications

The Prospector

No abstract provided.

Museums In Public Libraries: An Ethnographic Case Study Of The Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, Yadira Y. Quintero

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Access to information is a human right, and this thesis explores the benefits and challenges of integrating museums into public libraries by conducting an ethnographic case study of the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library. The study's findings highlight the complexities of integration. The biggest benefit is the increased access to museum collections, information, and resources. However, challenges arise from the lack of cohesion within the museum and library disciplines, as well as strained community relations. Engaging the community is crucial for successful collaboration, emphasizing the importance of a bottom-up approach that allows for active participation. Integrating museums into public libraries …