Digital Commons Network^™

Factors Motivating Clothing Choice: Environmental Impact Of T-Shirts, Lauren Hunt

DePaul Discoveries

Second only to oil, the fashion industry is one of the most pollutive industries globally. Due to the rise of fast fashion, this environmental issue is continually growing. The level of production has dramatically increased while quality of apparel has decreased, causing shorter garment lifespans. This research utilizes life cycle assessment to identify the environmental impacts of various textiles used in the production of t-shirts, including cotton, polyester, viscose, and elastane. The research scope focuses from material extraction through garment disposal. The life cycle assessment research is paired with a community survey to determine consumer behavioral patterns surrounding clothing consumption …

Environmental Justice And Soil Lead Contamination: Spatial Analysis Across Seven Community Areas, Arsene Lionel Apabaga

DePaul Discoveries

Pb is a pervasive metal with toxicity linked to numerous human health issues. Urban soil is a well-documented environmental sink for Pb, persisting as a legacy pollutant decades after the phaseout of leaded gasoline. This study measured, mapped, and analyzed the spatial distribution of total soil Pb concentrations across seven Chicago Community Areas (CCAs). The objectives were to: (1) assess the relationship between mean soil Pb concentration and mean Community Environmental Justice Index (CEJI) score per CCA, (2) determine the relationship between soil Pb levels and the percentage of industrial land use, and (3) quantify and compare the percentage of …

Values And Barriers: A Multidimensional View Of College Students’ Motivations To Volunteer, Gavin Warner, Quang Anh Nguyen, Ansuk Jeong

DePaul Discoveries

University students tend to have ample access to many resources for volunteering and so are in a unique position among Americans. With all the benefits of volunteering outlined in past research, the students training to become leaders in their fields may have the most to gain from volunteerism. It is surprising, then, to note that young people are less likely to volunteer than other age groups. Why is it that college students tend to volunteer at such low rates? The current study seeks to answer this question through a mixed-methods survey. A qualitative section clarified which specific barriers students felt …

The Role Of Maternal Attachment In The Relation Between Acculturative Stress And Mental Health Among Latinx Youth, Melisa Dangles, Evelin Regalado, Antonio Polo

DePaul Discoveries

Acculturative stress is a significant psychological challenge faced by Latinx youth as they navigate cultural adaptation, often leading to negative mental health outcomes. Research has shown that acculturative stress is positively associated with major depression, anxiety, and high-risk behaviors, including delinquency and impulse control problems (Lerias et al., 2024). This study examines the role of maternal attachment as a mediator in the relation between acculturative stress and both depressive symptoms and externalizing problems among Latinx youth. The sample consisted of 281 Latinx students (ages 10-14, M = 11.4, SD = 0.95) from several Chicago Public Schools. Results indicate that acculturative …

“Put Me In Coach!”: The Impact Of College Sport Team’S Mentorship In Chronically Ill And Disabled Children And Adolescents Adherence To Medical Regimen, Jameela Askira

DePaul Discoveries

The purpose of this study was to see if participation in TeamIMPACT, a program which matches ill children with college sports teams, aided chronically ill children and adolescents in adhering to their treatment regimen. This research is a part of a larger study where 25 child participants were interviewed via Zoom to answer questions regarding their time in the program, peer and family relationships, coping and resilience and other factors. The current study solely analyzed answers to questions regarding adherence to medical treatments. There were three measures: Child vs Parent Response, Treatment Regimen Components and Care Responsibility. Through a descriptive …

Frustrated, But Motivated: Insights From People With Me/Cfs, Aiden Rathmann, Suvetha Ravichandran, Leonard A. Jason

DePaul Discoveries

Qualitative research can amplify and clarify the perspectives of people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The current study analyzed responses to an open-ended survey question regarding the experiences of people with ME/CFS, especially in relation to ME/CFS case definitions. Although many people with ME/CFS are frustrated with their interactions with healthcare workers and researchers, people with this illness want these individuals to listen to them about their experiences with health care and research.

Using Synchrotron Wide-Angle X-Ray Scattering To Study Collagen Degradation In Second Metacarpal Bones, Zeel Sheth, Misha Romanov, Ruby Schwieger

DePaul Discoveries

The study examines female human second metacarpal (mc2) bones from early medieval cemetery at Greding, Germany, using high-energy Wide-Angle X-ray Scattering (WAXS) at beamline 1-ID of the Advanced Photon Source (APS) at Argonne National Laboratory. Rietveld refinement showed that carbonated apatite lattice parameters did not correlate with estimated age-at-death. For six of the mc2, widths of 00.2 and 00.4 diffraction peaks were substantially narrower than those of a modern (non-diagenetically altered) mc2 and of the other four ancient mc2. The peak width results are interpreted as indicating that four of the ten ancient mc2 retain substantial collagen and six of …

Conical Radon Transform For Medical Imaging, Olivia Medina

DePaul Discoveries

The 2D Conical Radon transform is an alternate approach to medical imaging that is more efficient than the conventional method used in the PET Scan. Here, a 2D Conical Radon transform is used to reconstruct a function or image from a line integral on a 2-dimensional cone with a fixed angle and axis of symmetry at each data point. Implemented in MATLAB, this method uses a single Reimann Sum to produce images in a faster and less computationally expensive way. The V-Line transform is an alternative understanding of the 2D Conical Radon transform in which it is theoretically proven that …

Modifications To The Spiral Array: A Computational Approach To Music Analysis, Rose Bittle

DePaul Discoveries

The Spiral Array is a geometric model of musical tonality and exists as a tool in computer-aided music analysis. The model was first published in 2000 by Elaine Chew, PhD, in her thesis, Towards a Mathematical Model of Tonality. This project aimed to restructure the Spiral Array, limiting user ambiguity and optimizing the application of musical key finding. The existing model defines pitch, chord, and key location to form a series of spirals dependent on a set of flexible weights. In our research we were able to identify potential issues with the pitch definitions themselves and experiment with methods …

Exact Sampling Of The Six-Vertex Model Using Coupling From The Past, Malaeka Amir

DePaul Discoveries

This paper aims to explore the six-vertex model through simulations designed to investigate the behavior of configurations under specific domain wall boundary conditions. To generate random configurations, we employ the Markov Chain Monte Carlo method while addressing the challenge of mixing times by utilizing the Coupling from the Past (CFTP) algorithm. Implemented in Python, our approach leverages CFTP to ensure exact sampling, avoiding the uncertainty of convergence in traditional Monte Carlo methods. We explore the monotonicity property within this framework and prove that it is only maintained by the steps of this algorithm for very particular values of the parameters.

Modified 2-Quinolinones For Photocatalysis: The Fluorescence Quantum Yield (Φf) Of Novel 2-Quinolinone Derivatives, Reggina Moreno Trevino, Graham Griffin

DePaul Discoveries

The photophysical properties of novel 2-quinolinone derivatives were examined to evaluate their potential as photocatalysts using fluorescence and UV-Vis absorbance spectroscopy. The fluorescence quantum yields were determined via the relative comparative method, using target absorbance values at a specific wavelength to prepare solutions and comparing these measurements to the reference molecule carbostyril-124. Molar absorptivity values were also calculated to assess the light absorption properties for each compound. Among the derivatives, PAV-3 presented with the highest molar absorptivity and fluorescence quantum yield values (ε= 15297.3 M-1 cm-1, ΦF= 17.1%), while PAV-5 showed the lowest (ε= 4796.2 M-1 cm-1, ΦF= 2.3%). The …

Race/Ethnicity, Living Arrangements, And Access To Healthcare Among Older Adults With Alzheimer’S Disease In The United States: Multiple Systematic Reviews In Relation To Health Outcomes, Chela Reiss, Grace Vethacke

DePaul Discoveries

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition primarily affecting older adults. It is a growing public health crisis that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. The number of adults aged 65 and older is projected to reach 98.2 million by 2060, leading to a continued rise in the prevalence of AD. Understanding the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes in patients with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) is essential in addressing the disparities within patient care and quality of life. This systematic review examined three socioeconomic factors - race/ethnicity, living arrangements, and access to healthcare - and their related health …

Depaul Discoveries Volume 14 Cover Art, Reggina Moreno Trevino

DePaul Discoveries

No abstract provided.

Six Steps To A Successful Study Abroad Program: Case Study In Stockholm, Sweden, Bryan R. Burton

csuglobalaction

This article is meant to serve as a guide for developing a short-term (typically 2 to 3 weeks long) faculty-led study abroad program. I will focus solely on my work in Stockholm, Sweden during summer 2023. This article will be particularly helpful to faculty members who are new to developing their own study abroad programs. I have six suggested steps for developing a successful faculty-led program. These six steps include:

1. thinking about what you want for students and your own career;

2. building on-campus partnerships;

3. Recruiting and supporting students as early as possible;

4. making the program itinerary interactive and rewarding for …

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Va Dent J July, August And September 2025

Virginia Dental Journal

The July–September 2025 issue of the Virginia Dental Journal highlights the continued dedication of the Virginia Dental Association (VDA) to advocacy, education, and professional development. In his message, President Dr. Justin Norbo reflects on his visits across the state, underscoring the importance of peer-to-peer engagement and unity within the tripartite (ADA, VDA, and local components) to protect and strengthen the profession. Editor Dr. Sarah Friend shares a candid narrative of workforce challenges, burnout, and mismanagement in dental practices, calling for proactive involvement in both private practice and organized dentistry to prevent decline. ADA Trustee Dr. James Mercer provides updates on …

Cleanings And Conundrums, Sarah Friend Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The document highlights the challenges faced by an associate dentist in a poorly managed dental practice, including workforce shortages, unprofessional behavior, and lack of support from management. It emphasizes the importance of proactive engagement in solving systemic issues within dentistry and introduces the SafeHaven program as a resource for addressing burnout and mental health concerns among healthcare professionals.

Unboxing Accessibility: Evaluating The Out-Of-Box Experience Of The Playstation Access™ Controller, Carmen Van Ommen, Isabella Curtorillo, Olivia Honan, Gretchen Wilson, Joshua Frankenfield, Barbara Chaparro

Discovery Day - Daytona Beach

Many video gamers with mobility disabilities face significant barriers when using video game controllers, creating a demand for assistive technology within the gaming industry. The PlayStation Access™ Controller (PAC) is an adaptive gaming device designed to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities through customizable controls. Due to the diverse experiences people with disabilities face, it is important to evaluate a variety of users, from no mobility impairment experiences to caregivers, and those experiencing a mobility disability, to ensure that a range of groups have the ability to set-up and use the PAC. A key aspect of this Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) …

Marketing The Library: Using Business Students To Increase Library Patronage After The Covid-19 Pandemic, Sandra L. Teft

Midwest Business Librarian Summit (MBLS)

No abstract provided.

Life Of Moo Deng, The Internet Sensation Pygmy Hippopotamus: An Overview Of The Biology And Conservation Breeding Program In Thailand, Ampika Thongphakdee, Atthapon Nundee, Umaporn Maikeaw, Narongwit Chodchoy, Chainarong Punkong, Kaywalee Chatdarong

The Thai Journal of Veterinary Medicine

The hippopotamus, commonly known as the hippo, is classified into two extant species: the common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) and the pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis). Pygmy hippos are fascinating creatures native to the forests and swamps of West Africa. Their survival is increasingly threatened by habitat loss resulting from agricultural expansion and urban development. As the population declines, zoological institutions play a crucial role in conservation by acting as genetic reservoirs and promoting public awareness of wildlife and environmental protection. “Moo Deng”, a pygmy hippo, whose name in Thai has gained international recognition, represents a notable success …

Stars: System Lifecycle Perspective Of An Autonomous Robotic Swarm Test Arena, Rasika Ravindra Kale, James Hand, Jonah Kohlmeyer, Dawson Jones, Nathan Geroge

Discovery Day - Daytona Beach

Swarm robotics presents a robust platform for investigating distributed control, adaptive behavior, and autonomous coordination within a system of systems framework. The Roving Swarm comprises 24 low-computation robots, emulating eusocial insect behavior through vision-sensing and decentralized decision-making. A key subsystem, the motion-sensing and interaction module, integrates real-time object detection, swarm coordination, and environmental responsiveness, employing Pixy2 vision sensors and Arduino 33 IoT controllers. The robots use DC motors for actuation, enabling structured rotational and translational motion, and demonstrate dynamic adaptability to environmental cues such as light intensity and peer movements. Designed for modularity and scalability, the system lifecycle of the …

Tax Trends, E. S. Linett

Tax Adviser

No abstract provided.

Qualified Plans For Partnerships Of Professional Corporations: After Garland What?, Thomas G. Tracy

Tax Adviser

No abstract provided.

Tax Trends, E. S. Linett

Tax Adviser

No abstract provided.

Estate Planning: Significant Recent Developments Concerning Estate Planning (Part I), Byrle M. Abbin, David K. Carlson

Tax Adviser

No abstract provided.

An Analysis Of Fast Radio Bursts, Alessandro Tripoli

Discovery Day (formerly Post & Beyond)

Fast radio bursts (FRBs) were recently discovered in 2007 and have been a mystery ever since. The purpose of this study is to analyze progenitor models of possible origin. Despite their large energies, these bursts appear only in the radio band of the electromagnetic spectrum. Out of the 33 measured FRBs, only one has been observed to repeat (FRB 121101). In this work the significance of important properties such as the dispersion measure, Faraday rotation, and magnetic fields is discussed. The most persuasive progenitor models including binary neutron star mergers, soft gamma ray repeaters (SGRs), Gamma ray bursts (GRBs), merging …

Carbon Dioxide Conversion To Value-Added Products Over Fe Based Heterogeneous Catalysts, Alessandro Tripoli

Discovery Day (formerly Post & Beyond)

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a well-known greenhouse gas, which traps heat in the atmosphere causing global warming. The purpose of this study is to develop novel iron (Fe) based catalysts to convert CO₂ to value added chemicals such as carbon monoxide (CO), methane, ethylene, ethane and fuels. In this work, the heterogeneous Fe-based catalysts were synthesized via a wetness incipient impregnation method. The synthesized catalysts were tested for CO₂ hydrogenation through a flow bed reactor with controlled CO₂ and hydrogen (H₂) flow rate and on-line gas chromatography analysis to determine the catalyst performance …

Development Of Iron Based Heterogeneous Catalysts For Methane Conversion, Alessandro Tripoli

Discovery Day (formerly Post & Beyond)

Methane, main component of natural gas, is an abundant, inexpensive, and easily accessible resource due to the recent discoveries of natural gas reservoir in US. The purpose of this work is to convert methane to value-added product such as methanol. Methanol can be directly used as a liquid fuel and as a raw material for other industrial process. In this work, a series of novel iron-based catalysts supported on silicon carbide and zirconium oxide were designed and synthesized via a wetness incipient impregnation method. The synthesized catalysts were tested for CH₄ oxidation with O₂ through a flow bed …

Analog Channel Fault Detection, Anonymous

Defensive Publications Series

The present disclosure relates to analog fault detection in amplified spontaneous emission (ASE)-loaded optical line systems, specifically addressing channel power degradation scenarios that are not detectable by conventional digital methods. The disclosed solution initiates fault detection based on integrated, filtered channel power measurements taken at the line-out location of a section multiplexer (section-mux). These measurements are back-scaled to the corresponding section-mux input and compared against forward-scaled measurements and expected channel input power. By comparing these scaled power values, the solution accurately distinguishes between upstream faults (such as incorrect transmitter frequency tuning, silent pixel failures in wavelength selective switches, or fiber …

Smart Splitter In Passive Optical Network, Anonymous

Defensive Publications Series

A smart splitter system is disclosed for enhancing security, reliability, and remote management capabilities in Passive Optical Networks (PONs). The smart splitter integrates a dedicated controller, controllable mirrors, and internal optical light absorbers, leveraging the ONU Management and Control Interface (OMCI) protocol for dynamic control. The Optical Line Terminal (OLT) utilizes OMCI Managed Entities (MEs) to remotely enable or disable splitter output ports, swiftly isolating rogue Optical Network Units (ONUs) upon detection. This OMCI-driven splitter addresses security vulnerabilities posed by unused splitter ports, rogue ONUs transmitting outside allocated time slots, and malicious upstream optical interference. By automating port isolation via …

Effect Of Adding Nano Carbon On Density, Porosity, And Water Absorption Of Nickel By Powder Metallurgy, Hadeel J. Aziz, Ibrahim K. Salman

Al-Bahir

Powder metallurgy is used to obtain high strength and good toughness pistons as an application in aviation, space, and parts. Carbon nanotube CNTs were used with reinforcement ratios of (0,5,10,15,20) wt.% to nickel base, and the device used for piston is a hydraulic piston. The process was carried out at 5 tons for 3 minutes, and the pistons were processed at variable temperatures of (900,950,1000,1050˚C) for 2 hours. XRD of the composites was examined and it was found that the dominant phase of nickel at Miller parameters (111), and of carbon nanotube at (002) with crystalline stability with different sintering …