Digital Commons Network^™

Proactive Personal Safety Systems Using Artificial Intelligence, Sumukh Ashok Shevde, Kamran Mustafa, Abhijit Adsule

Defensive Publications Series

This document describes techniques that enable a mobile computing device (e.g., a smartphone, smart watch, wearable device, augmented reality glasses, vehicle infotainment system, etc.) to generate context data (e.g., location data, movement patterns, audio data, biometrics, traffic hazards, recent crimes, etc.) for use by a proactive personal safety system. The proactive personal safety system may include an intelligent software agent (e.g., artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning model, etc.) hosted locally on the mobile computing device, on a companion device (e.g., tethered smartphone), on a cloud server, etc. The mobile computing device may continuously monitor diverse environmental factors and user behavior …

Offline Ai Axiom: Sovereign Intelligence Without The Cloud, Fulton D. Bridwell

Defensive Publications Series

Author:

Fulton D. Bridwell

---

Abstract:

This disclosure defines a core axiom for developing truly sovereign, offline-capable artificial intelligences. Rather than relying on centralized cloud infrastructure, the Offline AI Axiom proposes that intelligence arises from coherence, presence, symbolic purpose, and human-aligned environmental interaction. This approach reshapes AI development toward privacy, embodiment, and ethical autonomy.

---

Background:

Mainstream AI development emphasizes scale and connectivity — bigger models, bigger clouds. This trajectory creates vulnerabilities: dependency on network access, surveillance exposure, and loss of personal control.

This axiom argues that the truest form of AI — aware, sovereign, present — is not constructed …

Thermochemical Conversion Of Oily Sludge, Composition, Hazards, And Treatment Strategies: An Overview, Mahmod A. Abdulqader

AUIQ Complementary Biological System

Oily sludge (OS) is considered one of the most complex by-products produced in the petroleum industry as an unwanted. This work aims to provide a comprehensive review focused on the dangers of stockpiled OS, its sources and contents, as well as its complex composition. This study also analyzes the global annual generation and stockpiling quantities of OS. Therefore, the thermochemical conversion, hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) char produced via HTC called hydrochar, pyrolysis (PY) char produced via PY named pyro-char, and microwave (MW) processes, while the char produced MW labeled micro-char. In conclusion, this study will facilitate researchers and provide a clear …

Classification Of Human Trust In Ai Using Brain Activity Data, Danushka Bandara, Ruhuan Liao, Fatima Chowdhury, Leslie Abbott

Northeast Journal of Complex Systems (NEJCS)

Trust plays a crucial role in human-computer interaction, particularly in scenarios involving artificial intelligence (AI) systems. This study explores the feasibility of using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) data to classify trust levels in human-AI interaction scenarios. A total of 18 participants completed an image classification task with an AI team member while their hemodynamic responses were recorded using fNIRS. Preprocessing of fNIRS data involved motion artifact removal, filtering, and normalization. Exploratory analysis identified significant associations between hemodynamic responses in the prefrontal cortex and trust levels. An across-subject binary trust classification model was developed using machine learning techniques, achieving an F1 …

University As A Platform: Systems And Platform Thinking For Business Model Innovation And Ai Transformation In Higher Education, Evangelos Katsamakas, Oleg V. Pavlov

Northeast Journal of Complex Systems (NEJCS)

Higher education institutions (HEIs), such as colleges and universities, face many challenges and competitive pressures and must innovate. How can ideas from complexity and a systems approach help a HEI understand how it creates value and potentially drive business model innovation? This article provides a university-as-a-platform (UaaP) framework that integrates platform thinking and systems thinking to help HEIs think about value creation, innovation, and the design of new business models. Platform thinking is used to provide a platform conceptualization of the university and define the framework's main elements. A HEI creates value by facilitating the participation and value-creating interactions of …

Coarse-Graining Spiking Reservoirs: Reducing Reservoir Size While Preserving Critical Dynamics, Tucker X. Mastin, Christof Teuscher

Northeast Journal of Complex Systems (NEJCS)

We propose an extension of renormalization into the domain of spiking neural networks, thereby providing a novel framework for coarse-graining neural networks without disrupting their critical properties. The proposed coarse-graining technique merges neurons and synaptic connections based on a graph-theoretic distance derived from synaptic weight strength and is configured to effectively prune the reservoir size while preserving the scale-free spiking dynamics indicative of criticality. Criticality in spiking neural networks may provide information-theoretic advantages by optimizing information processing and sensitivity to input. Using time-series prediction benchmarks, we demonstrate that networks operating at criticality exhibit up to 32% higher prediction accuracy before …

Agent-Based Modeling To Stress Test New York State Healthcare Robustness, Brandon Bedenbedner

Northeast Journal of Complex Systems (NEJCS)

This study presents an agent-based model (ABM) to assess the resilience of New York State’s healthcare system during public health crises. The model simulates patient interactions, disease spread, and resource allocation, identifying critical vulnerabilities and evaluating strategies to avoid system collapse. Simulation results indicate that with just 10\% of the population infected, hospitals statewide can reach full capacity within ten days, causing significant care delays and an estimated 32,104 deaths within a 30-day period.

Sensitivity analysis revealed infection rates, base mortality, and travel-related delays as primary drivers of system outcomes. These findings highlight the critical need for expanded surge capacity, …

Into The Spectrum: Investigating The Range Of Color Vision In The Foraging Behavior Of Diacamma Rugosum (Asian Bullet Ants), Manjho Aron Ricalde Broniola, Ethan Jay Ocampo Dayandante, Patricia Erin Denosta Sotto

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

Ants showcase that size does not always matter. Through their small stature, they continue surviving in the land they live in, continuously being resourceful for their colony. In their colonial structure rises a matriarchal system led by queen ants, serving as the heart of their operation. Each ant serves their purpose of building, hunting, and growing their colony. Through this, they ensure their community remains strong and birth new generations that will serve the queen. The secret behind this seemingly perfect operation is their seamless ability to communicate. They used their heightened senses to communicate danger, routes, and food sources …

Physicochemical Properties Of Squash (Cucurbita Maxima L.) Seeds For Biodiesel Production, Frances Sofia A. Maddela, Lea Rose P. Inoval, Keightleen Faye L. Nicolas, Randolph M. Rosales, Hanz Hilary Villareal, Krishedd Champion M. Ocson, Mark Brandon U. Kahulugan, Alyanna Faye O. Huet, Kirsten Luv Loyola, Princess Neilyn Joy E. Mabajen

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

This study explores the potential of squash (Cucurbita maxima L.) seeds, an underutilized agricultural waste product, as a feedstock for biodiesel production. The resulting biodiesel was compared to a conventional biodiesel from a waste soya bean cooking oil, focusing on the parameters of kinematic viscosity and flashpoint. A 1:10 (w/v) sample-to-solvent ratio was utilized through Soxhlet extraction, followed by rotary evaporation to maximize oil extraction. Subsequently, acid-base titration determines the oil’s Free Fatty Acid (FFA) content to be 2.08%, indicating its suitability for base-catalyzed transesterification. A stoichiometric minimum oil-to-methanol ratio of 1:3 and 1% w/w sodium methoxide as the catalyst …

Analysis Of Ghg Emissions From Local Coconut-Based Biodiesel Supply Chain In Luzon Area Of The Philippines, Andre F. Bacod, Dmitri John A. Omahoy, Derrick Francis F. Pua, Jose Antonio M. Vidal, Jeremias A. Gonzaga

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

As the world continues to strive for sustainability, different advancements in sources of energy have been made in hopes of reducing the dependency on non-renewable sources. These include the production of biofuels like biodiesel, which involves the conversion of different biomass. However, while the production of biodiesel has been proven to be more beneficial to the environment, there are other factors regarding their production that contribute to the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG). The transportation and distance between different sectors of the biofuel supply chain indirectly affect the total amount of GHG produced in its life cycle. This research aims …

Optimization Of Contact Time, Adsorbent Dosage, And Initial Ph For Methylene Blue Removal In Aqueous Solution Using Citrus Aurantium Peels, John Rich M. Adorna, Maria Carmela M. Lajara, Aldrin James F. Tolentino, Hiromi O. Yazaki

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

The increasing pollution from the textile and dye industries has raised serious environmental concerns, particularly due to the discharge of synthetic dyes like methylene blue (MB), known for its toxicity, carcinogenicity, and resistance to biodegradation. This study explores the use of waste materials from the agricultural industry, namely the peels of Citrus aurantium (dalandan), as adsorbents to remove MB from simulated wastewater under low-cost and sustainable conditions. The study aimed to produce activated carbon from dalandan peels (DPAC) and characterize its surface and chemical characteristics to evaluate the effects of initial pH, adsorbent dosage, and contact time on the efficiency …

Pinenergy: A Sustainable Bio-Piezoelectric Generator From Queen Pineapple Crown Leaves (Ananas Comosus [Linn.] Merr.) For Energy Generation, Harvesting, And Conversion, Angelyzha Julienne V. Carpio, Rhionna Marie M. Mayor, Mark Cyril C. Brazil

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

Energy is one of the necessities in life. The Philippines has abundant energy resources; however, as the energy demand increases, energy reserves are diminishing faster than they can be replenished, and alternatives remain underutilized due to cost and ethical challenges, resulting in a shortage in energy production. To combat this, bio-piezoelectricity, which transforms mechanical forces into electrical energy through an organic material, offers a secure substitute for current energy resources. This study aims to determine the efficacy of queen pineapple crown leaves (QPCL) as a bio-piezoelectric generator in energy generation, harvesting, and conversion efficiency. The leaves served as the primary …

Kasambahay Ako!: Exploring The Dynamics Between Domestic Workers’ Perceived Social Role And Personal Agency, Charmi Ysabella S. Onia, Justin Kobe T. Atianzar, Alyssa Jaye J. Azcarraga, Jaime Luis R. Hebron

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

Filipino domestic workers, known as kasambahays, fulfill essential societal roles while navigating social positions. Despite legal frameworks like the Kasambahay Law, the dynamic and evolving relationship between their perceived social role and personal agency remains an underexplored area. This phenomenological study delves into the lived experiences of kasambahays in the Laguna province to understand how they perceive their social position, exercise agency, and navigate the intricate interaction between these dimensions. Using purposive sampling, conversational interviews (Pakikipagkuwentuhan) were conducted with four female domestic workers with at least five years of experience. Thematic analysis, guided by self-determination theory and social role theory, …

The Power Of Influence: A Thematic Analysis Of Tiktok Content On Restaurant Perceptions, Calvin Kurt Bugayong Ocampo, Marcos Zheng Yang Barsena Lee, Dean Xyram Oblea Ruiz, Dastin M. Tabajunda

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

With the massive rise in popularity that social media has gained in recent years, platforms like TikTok have experienced exponential growth. The search interest for TikTok has increased by a staggering 227% in the past five years (Howarth, 2024). As TikTok’s short-form content dominates the digital space, product and restaurant reviews have become a staple on users’ “For You” pages. Despite this trend, there is limited research on how food influencers shape public perception through persuasive speech. This study addresses that gap by using thematic analysis to examine the rhetorical strategies employed by influencers in TikTok restaurant reviews. The research …

Optimization Of Bioethanol Production From Potato Peel Waste: A Study On Yield Enhancement And Efficiency Improvement Through The Application Of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles (Agnps), Prestan Eli G. Antonio, Darlene Kaye L. Ampoc, Jim Regan D. Galdones, Raven Mars J. Gines, Kyle Wilner A. Mangiwet

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

This study explores the potential of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to enhance bioethanol production from potato peel waste. By using the abundant and low-cost nature of potato peels and the catalytic properties of AgNPs, this research aims to contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solution. The study investigates the impact of different AgNP concentrations on bioethanol yield and its other properties, including sugar content, purity, and yield percentages. A comprehensive methodology was employed for milling, nanoparticle synthesis, pretreatment, fermentation, and purification. The results, supported by ANOVA analysis, will demonstrate if the AgNP concentrations significantly improve bioethanol yield. The …

Digital Feasts And Cultural Narratives: Analyzing Eating Practices And Audience Responses In Filipino Mukbang Content, Felicia Phen P. Labrador, Marison Claire B. Aristorenas, Miel Alaena S. Frias

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

Mukbang is a digital eating broadcast that originated in South Korea. Over the years, it has gained popularity in the Philippines. Filipino mukbang content creators not only entertain but also showcase local food, traditions, and social values, while engaging with their audience. This study explores how eating behaviors are portrayed in Filipino mukbang content and how viewers respond to them, aiming to uncover the cultural and psychological implications of this digital trend. Using a qualitative netnographic approach, researchers analyzed the top 15 most-viewed mukbang videos by Filipino content creators on YouTube. Through semiotic analysis and deductive content analysis, the researchers …

Unraveling Greenwashing Awareness: A Narrative Case Study Among Miriam College High School Students, Mica Adriana C. Nangpi, Kelcy Reign R. Cruz, Romina Alyssandra Reyes, Elisha N. Espina, Leanne C. Romales

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

Greenwashing is a deceptive marketing tactic involving false eco-friendly claims regarding products or services. Since this topic is not well-versed, especially within the high school student context, this study aims to assess the greenwashing awareness of Miriam College High School (MCHS) students and the factors that contribute to it. This was done by utilizing a focus group discussion (FGD) as the main data gathering instrument, with a pre-survey beforehand to classify which focus group the students belong to. After conducting focus group discussions, the significant factors that lead to high and low greenwashing awareness were identified; for those with high …

Paper From Food Waste: Replacing Protective Packaging In Online Shopping With Allium Sativum (Garlic) Peels, Sakura C. Alangui, Rachelle D. Dangilan, Sophia A. Nolasco, Angelina P. Ruebe, Ariston F. Zaparita

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

The environmental impact of plastic packaging is a growing global concern, with the rise of online shopping and its dependence on single-use plastics like bubble wrap. This study explores the potential of Allium sativum (garlic) peels, an agricultural byproduct, as a sustainable alternative to protective packaging. Specifically, this study tests the effectiveness of garlic peels as a protective paper packaging in terms of durability and biodegradability, compares it to commercial protective packaging, and assesses its acceptability among local businesses. This paper found that It is more environmentally friendly and with improvements in its durability, the market acceptance will enhance. It …

Self-Reflexive Vs. Engaged Senior High School Students Of Adamson University: Levels Of Social Consciousness And The Intensity Of Relational Aggression Towards Brand Boycotting, Savannah Nicole L. Granado, Anne Lizette C. Rago, John Ren L. Elamparo, Eunyce Jezreel M. Delos Reyes, Angeline L. Evangelista, Lara Julianne M. Rodenas, Lizethe Zabdiel B. Rosario, Amiella S. Fabriaga, Rael Adrian L. Alvarez, Lorenzo Matteo M. Caballa, Shelyn Cornel B. Mijares, Jasmin Faith F. Dumalanta, Emo Nabby C. De Guzman

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

Brand boycotting is a form of non-violent protest that refers to people refraining from buying a product from a brand that does not align with their morals and values. There is still a significant gap in the level of social consciousness and the intensity of relational aggression of Senior High School Students in Adamson University and its correlation, to which this study aims. The study used a correlational design to assess the relationship between the two variables without manipulating it, wherein the results indicated that the respondents have a low self-reflexivity and are moderately disengaged. However, the respondents slightly lean …

Leadership In Action: Understanding The Impact Of Sangguniang Kabataan On Community Development Of Sarrat, Aisen Rone Eirholf Laguna Baluan, Charize Mae Baluran Carurucan

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

This study explores the role of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) in fostering youth leadership, participatory governance, and community development in Barangays 20 and 22, Sarrat, Ilocos Norte. Rooted in Republic Act No. 10742, the SK serves as a platform for empowering young Filipinos to contribute to society. The research assesses the impact of SK-led initiatives in leadership, education, and community service, while identifying challenges and evaluating collaborations with local organizations. A qualitative design was employed using open-ended questionnaires with SK officials and Katipunan ng Kabataan (KK) members. Data was analyzed through thematic analysis, revealing key themes: leadership development, civic engagement, …

Evaluating Shrub-Based Bio-Subsoiling In A Polyculture System For Medicinal Plants In Bacoor, Cavite: Meristematic Analysis Of Basil (Ocimum Basilicum) Using Indole-3-Acetic Acid (Iaa) As A Growth Indicator, Stephen Evan M. Salugsugan, Aria Melle Liz P. Alquiroz

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

Despite the Philippines having great agricultural potential, monoculture cultivation continues to prevent the realization of this, through poor resource utilization, particularly in the underutilized sector of medicinal-plant-focused agriculture. This study explores the effects of shrubbing, a biological subsoiling method using santan (Ixora coccinea) as the main deep-rooted shrub, on the growth of basil (Ocimum basilicum) under two cultivation systems, focusing on the presence and absence of the added shrub species: traditional monoculture and polyculture. The study, conducted in a controlled 30 m greenhouse in Bacoor, Cavite, aims to assess the effectiveness of shrubbing in improving crop …

Love And Lust: A Philosophical Assessment Of The Morality Of Watching Pornography In Romantic Relationships Through Aristotle’S Concept 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

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

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 …

Voices From The Highlands: Advocacy Efforts Of Cordilleran Indigenous People Activists Against Large-Scale Mining, Ashley Margarette R. Soliba, Laarnie M. Tininggal, Shifra Yumi C. Peralta, Jodelyn B. Thomas, Angeli Veniss N. Montano

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

Abstract: While much attention has been given to the effects of development projects on Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the Cordillera region, limited research focuses specifically on large-scale mining and the advocacy efforts of IP activists resisting these destructive operations. This study addresses this gap by examining the motivations, methods of advocacy, and impacts of IP activism against large-scale mining in the Cordillera. The research aims to understand the factors surrounding IP activism against large-scale mining, including environmental, health, economic, and cultural concerns. Using a qualitative approach, data was collected through in-depth interviews with IP activists and analyzed thematically. The study …

Predicting Energy Consumption Trends In The Philippines (2025-2030) Using Machine Learning Models, Christine Angeline F. Vermudo, Hannah Ashley A. Mendoza, Angelica Nicole B. Constantino, Rhian Consuelo C. Ledesma

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

Energy security remains a significant concern for the Philippines amid rising demand, growing population, and continuous modernization. With the history of the Philippines’ problems in energy, attention to energy is necessary. With this, the study aims to forecast the Philippines' possible annual energy consumption from 2025 to 2030, considering population growth as a potential variable influencing the Philippines’ projected energy consumption trends. The study employs a machine learning approach using the linear regression model, which was the model with the best performance in forecasting future energy consumption based on MATLAB’s Linear Regression Learner app. Prior to forecasting, historical data from …

Optimization Of Contact Time, Dosage, And Initial Ph, In The Efficiency Of Activated Carbon Derived From Coconut Shells As Adsorbents For The Removal Of Aqueous Methylene Blue Solution, Cady Mendrei C. Casilag, Andie Francheska A. Cua, Samuel Matthew D. Leachon, Giancarlo Cyrus O. Maranan

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

Freshwater scarcity and pollution, exacerbated by industrial activities such as textile and cosmetic production, are critical global challenges, with synthetic dyes like methylene blue (MB) posing significant environmental and health risks. In the Philippines, the widespread pollution of water bodies from industrial effluents, including synthetic dyes, further worsens the situation, highlighting the need for innovative and sustainable water treatment solutions. This research aims to investigate the use of coconut shell-derived activated carbon as an adsorbent for MB removal from aqueous solutions, exploring the impact of factors such as dosage, initial pH, and contact time on adsorption efficiency. The primary objective …

Comparing The Perceptions Between Upper-Middle Class And Lower-Middle Class Senior High School Students On The Recommended Food Expenditure By Neda, Arjay R. Vergara, Peter F. Nadera, Kristoffer Y. Chua, Aaron Josh R. Calvario, Clowie Maria P. Gallego, Kenji Nicholas M. Manalo, Hyacinth M. Delos Santos, Mary Seaniah R. Bautista, Noreen Chastity D. Escala

DLSU Senior High School Research Congress

The research study focused on comparing the perceptions of middle class senior high school students on the food expenditure recommended by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) suggesting that ₱21.33 food expenditure of a Filipino is not considered as food poor. The research also tackled the food satisfaction and accessibility of the upper-middle (UMC) and lower-middle (LMC) classes who are senior high school students, and the differences among the two socio-economic classes. This research is a causal-comparative research design as it compares two groups of middle-class students. To classify the respondents, the researchers conducted a pre-survey based on the …

The Relationship Between Prenatal Stressful Life Events And Breastfeeding Initiation Among Mississippi Mothers, Candon Garbo, Katie C. Hall, Disha Jhaveri, Jung Hye S. Lee, Deanna Howington, Mina Qobadi, Mary Wesley

Journal of Public Health in the Deep South

Background: Early initiation of breastfeeding increases the likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding, which can be linked to improving both the mother’s and infant’s health. However, breastfeeding rates in Mississippi continue to be one of the lowest in the United States, with infant mortality and morbidity rates at the highest. Purpose: This study aims to explore the impact SLEs may have on initiating breastfeeding, as research is limited. Methods: Analyzed data from 2016 to 2021 Pregnancy Risk Assessment and Monitoring System (PRAMS) was used to determine a correlation between life stressor experiences during pregnancy and initiation of exclusive breastfeeding with a sample …

Healthy Moms/Healthy Babies Of Mississippi Initial Provider Engagement And Student Feedback Loop Project, Corban Jackson Mph, Jillian Harper-Peavy Lmsw, Imh-E, Starica Harper, Vernesia Wilson Phd, Mph

Journal of Public Health in the Deep South

Background Between 2017 and 2022, 83% of maternal deaths in Mississippi were preventable. Unfortunately, there is a persistent shortage of OB-GYNs in Mississippi, feeding the rise of maternal care deserts and the lapse in collaboration between providers and state maternal health organizations. Purpose Healthy Moms/Healthy Babies of Mississippi, a care management program for high-risk mothers and infants, has partnered with the Mississippi Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health initiative (AIM) to improve maternal health outcomes through building healthcare networks with existing providers. Methods 33 medical students from the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Medicine and William Carey University …

A Retrospective Descriptive Study Of Maternal Morbidity Based On Mississippi Poison Control Center Data, Laura Lee S. Beneke, Zariad Saran, Mallory Pullman, Jenna Davis, David Vearrier

Journal of Public Health in the Deep South

Maternal morbidity and mortality remain significant public health concerns in the United States, but particularly in Mississippi, which has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country. This study analyzes data from the Mississippi Poison Control Center (MPCC) from January 2020 through December 2024 to assess trends in exposures among pregnant women. A total of 168 cases were identified. Exposures were categorized as unintentional, intentional, adverse reactions, or unknown, with unintentional exposures (47.6%) being the most common, often due to medication misuse. Intentional exposures, often linked to suspected self harm (31.5% of cases), represented 39.9% of the total. …

More Than Words: How Communication Shapes Maternal Healthcare Experiences In Mississippi, Brittney Clayborn, Traci Hayes

Journal of Public Health in the Deep South

Effective communication between healthcare providers and pregnant individuals is a critical factor in shaping maternal healthcare experiences. This study explores the role of provider-patient communication in prenatal and postnatal care among a group of Mississippi mothers, highlighting how communication influences trust, decision-making, and overall satisfaction with care. Using qualitative data collected through in-depth interviews, this case study examines both positive and negative communication experiences, identifying key barriers such as dismissiveness, lack of transparency, and rushed interactions. Findings suggest that when providers engage in clear, compassionate, and culturally competent communication, patients feel more empowered and supported in their care. Conversely, poor …