Digital Commons Network^™

Understanding Healthcare Experiences Of Individuals With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities (Idd): A Mixed-Methods Research Proposal, Cristine Jan Catina

Master's Projects and Capstones

Background: Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often face persistent barriers to healthcare, which include complex health conditions, persistent health disparities driven by social determinants, insufficient provider training, widespread stigma, and significant communication barriers. While previous studies highlight systemic issues, they often overlook the lived experiences of both patients and providers. Purpose: This paper outlines a mixed-methods study, guided by the theory of planned behavior (TPB) to examine how attitudes, social norms, perceived behavioral control, and past healthcare experiences relate to behavioral intentions—specifically, the intention to attend future healthcare visits among adults with IDD and the intention to provide …

Msw Portfolio, Jennifer Lynn Barnhill

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

The Master of Social Work (MSW) Portfolio is a sample of the essays, presentations, projects, and experiences completed as part of my online MSW curriculum at the University of Montana (UM) School of Social Work (SSW) from 2022-2025. Throughout this narrative, I’ll describe the skills, values, theories, and frameworks I’ve learned during my three years working toward my master's degree in social work. Each of the appendices will demonstrate an understanding of the nine Council on Social Work Education, or CSWE, competencies (Texas College, n.d.) that all social workers are expected to meet, along with a tenth competency added by …

Msw Portfolio 2025, Lacie R. Ranieri

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

MSW Portfolio - 2025

Professional Portfolio, Grace E. Lowder

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Normal And Reverse Flow Injection- Spectrophotometric Determination Of Doxycycline Hyclate In Bulk And Pharmaceutical Samples, Tabarak Mohammed, Hind Hadi

Baghdad Science Journal

The present paper reports the development and validation of an analytical method for doxycycline hyclate (DOX) quantification in pure and dosage forms by normal and reverse flow injection analysis (FIA) techniques. Two types of FIA approaches were employed to automate a diazotization coupling reaction of DOX with diazotized benzidine dihydrochloride. Red azo dye was formed rapidly and measured at maximum wavelength of 488 nm. Calibration curves were prepared over different DOX concentrations with linearity ranges of 10-250 and 1-180 µg/mL for normal and reverse FIA systems respectively with the limits of detection of 2.95 and 0.46 µg/mL and limits of …

Hydrothermal Synthesis Of High Surface Area Mesoporous Silica As An Efficient Adsorbent For Removal Of Crystal Violet Dye From Aqueous Solution, Inaam H. Ali, Ameera Hassan Hamed, Ennas Abdul Hussein, Saadiyah A. Dhahir

Baghdad Science Journal

In this work, a sample of mesoporous silica (MPS) with a high surface area was prepared by hydrothermal synthesis procedure. To investigate the properties of the prepared sample, it was characterized using different techniques like N₂ Adsorption-desorption, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Atomic Force microscopy (AFM). In order to evaluate the efficiency of the prepared MPS, adsorption study was carried to examine the ability of MPS to remove crystal violet dye (CV) from aqueous solution. The study was done in different conditions of initial concentration (25-60 mg/L) of dye, dosage of MPS (0.01-0.05 g) and temperature …

Synthesis, Characterization, Biological Activity And Antioxidant Studies Of New Metal Ion Complexes Based On (E)-4-((Benzo[D]Thiazol-2-Ylimino)Methyl)-1,5-Dimethyl-2-Phenylpyrazolidin-3-One, Rafah Saad Talib, Naser Shaalan

Baghdad Science Journal

The study involved synthesis of four new complexes involving bidentate ligand [(E)-4-((benzo[d]thiazol-2-ylimino) methyl)-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenylpyrazolidin-3-one] with the general formula [M(L)₂Cl₂].xH₂O or [MLCl₂]. xH₂O, where M represents Mn²⁺, Co²⁺, Ni²⁺ and Cu²⁺. The ligand was synthesized by treating the 4-Antipyrinecarboxaldehyde and 2-aminobenzothiazoles in an alcoholic solution. The structural characteristics of ligand and complexes were characterized quantitatively and qualitatively by using various techniques including elemental analyses, magnetic susceptibility measurement, molar conductivity, infrared, ultraviolet absorption, Gc-Mass, and ¹H-NMR spectroscopy studies. The physical measurements indicated that the prepared …

Genetic Analysis Of Spp1 Polymorphism In Samples Of Iraqi Colon Cancer Patients, Ghufran Kadhim Talal, Ahmed Younus Abed

Baghdad Science Journal

Cancer is a multistage defect and very complex disease. It is distinguished by particular genetic mutations that lead to a loss of management of cellular functions during uncontrolled growth of normal cells leading to malignant cells. CA18 occurs by the abnormal growth of cells in colon. SPP1 is multifunctional protein. The aim of this study is to study genetic polymorphism of SPP1gene in CA18 patients along with healthy individuals to find the relationship with CA18 and compare both globally. DNA was extracted and the genetic polymorphism of the SPP1gene was determined. Genetic analysis of SPP1 (in rs11730582 T/C region) polymorphism …

Ability Of Staphylococcus Epidermidis And Escherichia Coli To Eliminate Cadmium, Lead And Copper From Tigris River In Mosul City, May A. Abdul Kader, Ghada A. Mohammad

Baghdad Science Journal

The heavy metals are non-biodegradable and could be toxic and carcinogenic, thus, their improper concentration in water could result in critical health issues for living organisms. Therefore, this study aimed to remove three heavy metals (Cadmium, lead and copper) by biological treatment especially using environmental nonpathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli. Eight samples were collected from Tigris River from different regions of Mosul city. Two containers were used for each sample to measure the concentration of minerals before and after treatment by bacteria. The results showed that E. coli was more efficient in removing two heavy …

Nitrogen Fertilizer Equivalence Of Red Clover When Inter-Seeded Into Corn, Hannah R. Francis, Ting Fung Ma, Rodrigo Werle, Chelsea H. Zegler, Daniel H. Smith, Douglas J. Soldat, Erika Marin-Spiotta, Matthew D. Ruark

Faculty Publications

Inter-seeding red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) provides an alternative method toincorporate cover crops into continuous corn (Zea mays L.) in the Upper US Midwest. Red clover is a leguminous cover crop that can grow in low-radiation environments and is winter hardy. Systems with red clover have demonstrated improved corn yield and a fertilizer N equivalence but understanding these effects with inter-seeding war-rants further investigation. The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of inter-seeding red clover on (i) plant-available N during and after red clover decomposition, (ii) optimum N rates for corn, and (iii) corn yields. The …

Nitrogen Fertilizer Equivalence Of Red Clover When Inter-Seeded Into Corn, Hannah R. Francis, Ting Fung Ma, Rodrigo Werle, Chelsea H. Zegler, Daniel H. Smith, Douglas J. Soldat, Erika Marin-Spiotta, Matthew D. Ruark

Faculty Publications

Inter-seeding red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) provides an alternative method to incorporate cover crops into continuous corn (Zea mays L.) in the Upper US Midwest. Red clover is a leguminous cover crop that can grow in low-radiation environments and is winter hardy. Systems with red clover have demonstrated improved corn yield and a fertilizer N equivalence but understanding these effects with inter-seeding warrants further investigation. The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of inter-seeding red clover on (i) plant-available N during and after red clover decomposition, (ii) optimum N rates for corn, and (iii) corn …

Msw Portfolio, Karri Cossabone

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio provides a reflective account of the knowledge and skills I developed throughout my graduate social work education. Drawing from academic coursework, practicum placements, and professional experiences, I explore my growth in core areas such as ethical practice, cultural humility, clinical assessment and engagement, advocacy, and evidence-based interventions. I also cover my skills utilizing theory in practice, trauma-informed care, social justice frameworks, and the importance of self-awareness in effective client relationships. This paper also discusses challenges and learning opportunities and how they shaped my professional identity and prepared me to grow into a competent, compassionate, and culturally responsive practitioner.

Msw Portfolio, Andrea C. Lawrence

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Master Of Social Work, Tanner J. Bailey

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio documents my academic and professional development throughout the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the University of Montana. Using my practicum experiences in juvenile probation and anonymous crisis intervention work, this paper integrates critical reflection, theory-informed application, and evidence-based practice to demonstrate my readiness as an advanced integrated social work practitioner.

Guided by the five elements of advanced integrated practice, the portfolio is structured around the ten core competencies outlined by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Key theoretical frameworks such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and trauma-informed care are discussed in relation …

Courtroom To Clinic: Where I Found The Work I Love, Christina Fay Bucarey

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio reflects my journey through the Master of Social Work program, highlighting my growth in clinical practice, policy advocacy, and cultural responsiveness. Drawing from experiences in treatment court, addiction counseling, tribal and non-tribal community contracts, and my generalist- and specialist-year practicum, it demonstrates my application of trauma-informed, evidence-based interventions, including adapted DBT groups within Indigenous communities. Through the lens of the Five Elements of Advanced Integrated Practice, I connect coursework, practicum learning, and professional development, such as my involvement with the NASW board, to show how I’ve developed the competencies required for ethical, effective, and community-centered social work practice.

Master Of Social Work Portfolio, Payten Thistlewaite

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Advocacy, Equity, And Impact: My Journey Through Social Work Practice, Stephanie L. Shaw

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio presents a comprehensive overview of my graduate-level social work education and field experiences, demonstrating mastery of the core competencies outlined by the Council on Social Work Education and the University of Montana School of Social Work. Through rigorous coursework, evidence-based interventions, and direct practice in both clinical and community-based settings, I developed and applied critical skills in ethical practice, cultural humility, policy advocacy, and research-informed service delivery. This work reflects a strong integration of theory and practice, commitment to advancing social justice, and a readiness to enter the field as a competent, reflective, and ethical social worker.

Msw Portfolio: Becoming Political, Stephanie Herther

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio captures my transformation through the University of Montana’s Master of Social Work program, shaped by both academic study and years of living and working abroad in under-resourced communities. Over three years, I have come to see the personal as inseparable from the political, grounding my practice in trauma-informed care, culturally responsive engagement, and the power of narrative-therapy. Guided by systems theory, attachment theory, and Critical Race Theory, I have woven together direct practice, community work, and policy advocacy to challenge inequities and honor the dignity of those most impacted by them. Each competency reflects not only skill development …

Master Of Social Work Portfolio, Julia Volner

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Msw Professional Portfolio-Glue Players, Chelsea Lucille Solberg

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Msw Portfolio, Julia Marie Sweeney

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio reflects my personal and professional growth throughout the University of Montana’s MSW program. Grounded in lived experience, child advocacy work, and academic learning, it highlights my development across core competencies and advanced integrated practice.

Becoming A Social Justice Worker, Laura Curry

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Sox2 Regulates Foregut Squamous Epithelial Homeostasis And Is Lost During Barrett’S Esophagus Development, Ramon U Jin, Yuanwei Xu, T Mamie Lih, Yang-Zhe Huang, Toni M Nittolo, Blake E Sells, Olivia M Dres, Jean S Wang, Qing K Li, Hui Zhang, Jason C Mills

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Esophageal adenocarcinoma is increasingly prevalent and is thought to arise from Barrett's esophagus (BE), a metaplastic condition in which chronic acid and bile reflux transforms the esophageal squamous epithelium into a gastric-intestinal glandular mucosa. The molecular determinants driving this metaplasia are poorly understood. We developed a human BE organoid biobank that recapitulates BE's molecular heterogeneity. Bulk and single-cell transcriptomics, supported by patient tissue analysis, revealed that BE differentiation reflects a balance between SOX2 (foregut/esophageal) and CDX2 (hindgut/intestinal) transcription factors. Using squamous-specific inducible Sox2-KO (Krt5CreER/+ Sox2Δ/Δ ROSA26tdTomato/+) mice, we observed increased basal proliferation, reduced squamous differentiation, and expanded metaplastic glands at …

Optimizing Inventory Management To Reduce Medication Waste At A Low-Resource Clinic, Maqadus A. Khan

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract

Introduction

This project implemented standard operating procedures for inventory management in a low-resource clinic, incorporating First Expired, First Out (FEFO), Just-in-Time (JIT) ordering, and barcode scanning to reduce medication waste and optimize inventory processes. The aim was to reduce medication waste and optimize inventory processes.

Methodology

The Lean Six Sigma framework guided this project. Root causes of waste included inaccurate demand forecasting, lack of expiration tracking, insufficient staff training, poor stock rotation, and absence of standardized procedures. Baseline waste and practices were recorded. Medications were organized with nearing expirations upfront (FEFO), PAR levels were set, and JIT ordering implemented. Waste …

A Study Of Wear Measurement And Life Prediction Of Insert Chute Liner On Gold Ore Processing, Ferry Ardika Natanael, Nony Maulidya, Dedi Priadi

Journal of Materials Exploration and Findings

Chutes are critical materials handling assets to transport solid particles from one process step to another in mineral processing, coal mining and cement industries. The material transport, because of material characteristics, cause severe wear on internal lining of chutes or bins’ structure. The wear problem on internal lining of bins or chutes needs to be checked to keep production efficiency. Therefore, not checked wear rate causes liner replacement schedule becomes unpredictable. It leads to production loss and highly cost maintenance in industry. This study shows that condition-based maintenance through regular thickness measurement using Ultrasonic Transducer (UT) to predict life service …

Autonomous Uav Swarm Formation Utilizing Gradient-Driven Contour Mapping For Radiation Source Localization, Edgar Amalyan

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This thesis presents a drone swarm for radiation mapping to aid source localization. The Department of Energy advocates employing UAVs for this task, but existing approaches remain inefficient and impractical in real-world scenarios. Three custom drones are built and flight-tested. A control algorithm to follow a contour, a constant-intensity path, is designed using a gradient fit. By knowing the source’s direction, the drone swarm can fly in the optimal trajectory at every step, leaving nothing to assumption. A program is created that implements formation flight and autonomous navigation. It is tested via a software-in-the-loop simulation utilizing radiation sources and detectors …

Rna’S Symphony: Harmonizing Splice Junctions And Exon Counts For A Novel Approach To Differential Splicing Analysis, Jelard Aquino

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Alternative Splicing (AS) plays a critical role in transcriptome complexity and cell-type-specific gene regulation, yet its analysis remains methodologically fragmented, especially in the context of noisy and sparse single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. This dissertation addresses key computational challenges in AS detection by evaluating existing tools, developing integrative frameworks, and proposing new strategies for improving analysis accuracy in both bulk and single-cell contexts. In chapter 1, I present a comprehensive literature review of computational tools designed for detecting and quantifying AS from bulk and scRNA-seq data. This review outlines major methodological paradigms, including exon-based and splice junction-based approaches, and evaluates …

An Examination Of The Purity Culture Beliefs Scale And The Interaction Of Religiosity, Purity Culture Beliefs, And Pornography Use In A Census-Matched United States Sample, Kaelyn R. Griffin

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The impacts of purity culture have been documented in the prevalence of abstinence-only sex education, perception of personal value tied to virginity, and shame and guilt related to sexual behavior. Similarly, models of moral incongruence often examine religiosity as a contributor of distress related to sexual behavior and pornography use, likely tapping into the influence of purity culture without directly naming its presence. This distinction is crucial due to the variety of religious beliefs and practices, some including purity culture and those without sexually restrictive beliefs and practices. Despite this, standardized measures for researching purity culture are limited. Ortiz (2018) …

Ecological Momentary Assessment Of Mood, Affect, And Perceived Criticism: Investigation Of Daily Patterns And Family Impact, Kayla Mcginty

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Perceived criticism (PC) is a component of expressed emotion (EE) that assesses an individual’s perceptions of the criticism that they are exposed to within their interpersonal relationships. PC is elevated among individuals with mood disorders, and mood and mood symptoms act as both a predictor and an outcome of PC. However, few studies have examined the relationship between PC and affect, a more momentary measure of emotion that can serve as a guide to underlying mood. Additionally, limited research has examined how PC within family relationships compares to other interpersonal interactions. Understanding the relationship between momentary affect and PC and …

Error Processing In Psychopathy: An Analysis Of Event Related Brain Potentials And Post-Error Task Behavior, Ananda Liz Peixoto Couto

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Performance monitoring and error processing are crucial for learning from mistakes, adjusting responses, and adapting to the environment. Individuals with psychopathy present with failures in performance monitoring, particularly a failure to learn from experience, and error processing deficits have been reported in this population. Error processing literature has investigated its underlying mechanisms via two prongs, namely behavioral measures and electroencephalography (EEG) indicators. Behaviorally, error processing literature has focused on post-error slowing (PES) and post-error accuracy (PEA). Meanwhile, EEG research has identified two components of error-related brain potentials (ERPs) in error processing: error-related negativity (ERN) and error positivity (Pe). This study …