Digital Commons Network^™

Stem Cell Potency: Automated Vs. Manual Segmentation In Adipogenic Differentiation, Zachary Armstrong

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

Important cell processes can be captured and analyzed with live-cell imaging followed by computational analysis. Current methods of microscopy image analysis involve manually segmenting cells, often done by multiple researchers, which is time-consuming and can limit the accuracy and throughput of the desired data. By implementing deep learning algorithms, captured images can be automatically segmented which greatly reduces the time required to do so and can possibly improve the accuracy of desired data. A newly developed deep learning algorithm pipeline, Lipid Locator, will be utilized to automatically segment acquired images of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC). More specifically, ADSC with fluorescently …

The Impact Of Covid-19 On Consumer Tastes, Preferences, And Purchasing Behavior, Abbey Jin Beeck

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented changes in the global consumer landscape, particularly in the realm of apparel. This project delves into the crucial importance of understanding the multifaceted effects of COVID-19 on consumer behavior within the apparel industry. The research explores the dynamic shifts in consumer tastes, preferences, and purchasing habits in response to the pandemic, shedding light on their far-reaching consequences. In addition, the pandemic has disrupted traditional retail formats, leading to store closures and reduced foot traffic. This has pushed retailers to innovate by integrating technology and providing unique in-store experiences to attract customers back to …

Investigation Of The Impact Of Neighborhood Environments On Alzheimer’S Disease And Alzheimer’S Disease-Related Dementias (Ad/Adrd), Darashagam Nahal

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

There is an increased interest in understanding the impact of neighborhood environments on cognitive functioning, cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease-related dementias (AD/ADRD). Surprisingly, there has yet to be a comprehensive review that consolidates the findings from studies conducted in this specific field. The purpose of this study is to comprehensively investigate the influence of eight neighborhood environments on AD/ADRD. The seven key neighborhood environments that are investigated in this study include: i) socioeconomic status, ii) food environments, iii) physical activity resources, iv) social cohesion, v) crime, vi) non-crime safety, and vii) healthcare services. This research conducts a …

Phenotypic Plasticity In Pigmentation: Investigating Coloration Patterns In Anablepsoides Hartii Population Responses To Environmental Variation, Jasdeep Kaur

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

In this study, we investigated the color-changing capabilities of Trinidadian killifish, Anablepsoides hartii, through exposure to varied color conditions over defined periods of time. Our experiment aims to understand adaptive responses when killifish are subjected to different color backgrounds, exploring their mechanisms to change color. By subjecting the species to different environmental color variations, we sought to discern color change patterns, which could indicate adaptive responses related to camouflage, stress, behavior clues, and physiological adjustments. Carefully controlling environmental factors, we monitored and documented the fishes’ color changes, aiming to provide insights into the interplay between fish’s developmental plasticity and its …

Queering The Beginning: A Poetic Exploration Of Genesis And Creation, Bradford C. Huddleston

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

The Bible is one of the most influential texts in Western literature, shaping literature, politics, and culture since its introduction. The book of Genesis contains some of the most iconic stories from the Bible, such as the Garden of Eden, Noah’s Flood, and the Tower of Babel. This project will break down the text through literary analysis and the creation of a poetry collection to reveal how the text understands and explores the concept of queerness. The Book of Genesis contains a variety of queer concepts that are often neglected by traditional Biblical scholarship. This poetry collection aims to queer …

Latinas In A Hispanic Serving Institution: A Social, Political, And Economic Landscape, Cyntia Lopez Lara

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

The purpose of this study is to explore the progress of Latinas in the United States by focusing on first-generation female students in a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) who self-identify as Hispanic and/or Latin American. Furthermore, this study considers the contributing factors to their change and development, primarily through education. This study focuses on the shared and unique experiences of being first generation Mexican-America through the Latina experience in higher education. The research questions are: (1) What career fields do Latin American and Hispanic women pursue? (2) What impact do role models, gender roles, and culture have on their career …

Anxious Scrolling: Prosocial Behavior Social Media Content Implications, Brianda P. Rocha Hernandez

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

This study explores the effects of exposure to prosocial social media videos on anxiety. In this modern age of social media, many people have reported that their mental health is negatively influenced by social media. Many social media videos that millions of people are exposed to could contain hateful or dangerous content that can negatively impact a person’s mental state. Past research has not mentioned the effects of prosocial social media videos on anxiety, but related papers have been published. Prosocial behavior is behavior that is described as helpful, and positive, and promotes a welcoming social community. In related research, …

Balancing Perspectives: Assessing The Integration Of Ai In Academic Support Within Higher Education, Sami Ali

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

The rapid advancement of A The rapid proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various sectors highlights its transformative potential, yet its integration into educational settings raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding its misuse by students. This study conducts a detailed sentiment analysis and systematic literature review to examine the diverse perspectives on AI within education, from both academic and non-academic viewpoints. Utilizing advanced data mining tools to analyze sentiments and trends, this research reveals a complex landscape where optimism about AI’s capabilities is tempered by concerns over ethical implications and potential misuse. The findings contribute to the dialogue on leveraging AI …

Biophilic Design On The University Of Texas At Arlington Campus: Comparison Of 1999-2024, Makayla Lynn Thompson

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is home for many students and the care of this college campus environment is essential. Over the years many improvements have been made to help students have a higher quality experience at UTA. This study addresses a historical pursuit of the development of UTA’s campus environmental features, also known as biophilia, between the years of 1999-2024. Biophilia is the environmental features containing natural elements within an architecturally designed space. Biophilic environmental features on UTA’s campus and the resulting student experience enhancement are the purpose behind the research. This research examines the historical establishment …

The Effect Of Field-Related Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy On Skeletal Muscle Regeneration: Initial Experiments, Leah Angelica De Leon

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

Muscle trauma requires prompt recovery mechanisms, particularly in locations lacking specialized medical facilities. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy at 2.5 atmospheres absolute (ATA) positively impacts muscle recovery but necessitates specialized facilities. This study assessed the effectiveness of HBO2 therapy at a more accessible pressure level, 1.5 ATA, on muscle regeneration. Crush-injured muscle of 11 male and 8 female C57BL/6 mice were treated with mild HBO2 (100% oxygen at 1.5 ATA) or hyperoxia (100% oxygen at room atmospheric pressure). Regenerating myofiber properties were examined at 4- and 8-days post-injury, including the expression of a myosin-specific protein, developmental myosin heavy chain, myofiber cross-sectional …

Enhanced Magnetic Hyperthermia In Iron Carbide Nanorods, Noman Ali Molwani

2024 Spring Honors Capstone Projects - Archive

No abstract provided.

Resonant Perceptions: Exploring Autistic Aesthetics Through Embodied Cognition, James Hutson, Piper Hutson

Faculty Scholarship

No abstract provided.

The Costs Of Convenience: A Case For Regulating Online Food Marketplaces In The Public Interest, Angela Lee

Journal of Food Law & Policy

As digital platforms have become more popular, including those relating to food ordering and delivery, the range of both their positive and negative impacts have become more apparent. In response, governments in various jurisdictions have made efforts at regulating such platforms, as part of their mandate of balancing complex and often competing goals in the public interest. Unfortunately, attempts at governing digital platforms to date have largely proven ineffective at checking the power of the large corporations that are behind their growth and expansion. I argue that a critical assessment of these new forms of online food marketplace further supports …

Misinformation In U.S. Food And Agriculture: A Policy Analysis Of Impacts And Recommended Solutions, Jamie Woodside

Journal of Food Law & Policy

This paper aims to review the current state of play of misinformation in the U.S. food and agriculture sectors—delving into the roots of misinformation, its propagation through social media and traditional channels, and its consequences for the agricultural sector and society at large. Additionally, through an examination of existing laws, regulations, and potential legal remedies, this paper aims to shed light on the challenges posed by misinformation and offers recommendations for mitigating its harmful effects.

I’M Not Lovin’ It: Re-Thinking Fast Food Advertising, Brody Shea, Michael S. Sinha

Journal of Food Law & Policy

In 1971, the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) and the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) agreed to prevent injury and deception to the consumer in advertising, detailing their respective roles in a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”). The MOU has been amended and an addendum added since 1971, but the material provisions have remained consistent for over a half-century. The FTC has regulatory authority over fast food advertising while the FDA regulates fast food, which creates a proverbial fork in the road. The fork in the road widens when considering the FDA has an active role in curbing the obesity epidemic through …

The Dark Side Of The Balloon: Restrictions On Foreign Investment In U.S. Farmland, Sarah Everhart

Journal of Food Law & Policy

This Article argues that if legislators truly want to strengthen our food system, they should shift their focus from preventing foreign investment in farmland to supporting domestic investment in farmland. According to the National Young Farmer Survey, finding affordable land to buy is the top challenge for young farmers. This Article begins with examining the history of restricting foreign ownership of U.S. farmland. This Article also explores the current landscape of foreign investment in U.S. farmland and the perceived threat associated with this investment. The Article also examines the current renewed interest in preventing foreign landholding and what has happened …

Developing An Efficient Regulatory Framework For Safe Street Food In Bangladesh: Lessons From Comparative Analyses With India, Thailand, And New York City, Usa., Abu Noman Mohammad Atahar Ali

Journal of Food Law & Policy

Globally, approximately 2.5 billion individuals consume street food1 daily. Street food is affordable, convenient, and sometimes nutritious, offering diverse and appealing food choices. A World Health Organization (WHO) report in 1996 ascertained that 74% of countries recognized the substantial contribution of street foods to their urban food supply The following parts of the article look into street food's impact on public health and its implications for the lives of people in Bangladesh. Subsequently, it will examine previous initiatives and current endeavors to ensure street food safety and hygiene. Following this literature review, the study will conduct a detailed examination of …

Annual Pasture Quantity And Quality In South West Western Australia, Department Of Primary Industries And Regional Development, Western Australia

Animal production and livestock factsheets

The productivity of sheep is largely governed by the amount of pasture they eat and this is influenced by the quantity of the pasture on offer and its quality. Assessing pasture quantity and quality throughout the growing season gives managers the information they need to manage animal performance and pasture condition.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development provides this information for farmers to help improve the productivity and profitability of the livestock industry in Western Australia.

Livestock Water Requirements And Water Budgeting For South West Western Australia, Department Of Primary Industries And Regional Development, Western Australia

Animal production and livestock factsheets

Adequate supplies of good quality stock water are just as important as feed supplies during summer, a period when feed and water quantity and quality are at their lowest in the agricultural areas of Western Australia.

Information on this page will help livestock owners to calculate a water budget – before problems develop – to complement a feed budget.

Pressured Exit, Jayesh Rathod

Scholarly Articles in Law Reviews & Journals

This Article upends the traditional framing of the United States as a migrant-receiving country by examining a growing category of emigrant outflows: U.S. citizens who have been compelled to depart permanently because of conditions of vulnerability. Eschewing use of the generic term "expatriate," this Article contends that these U.S. citizens are most accurately described as pressured migrants who have exited due to identity-based mistreatment, gaps in the social safety net, or concerns about deteriorating social and political conditions in the United States. By focusing on these departures, this Article aims to further theorize and provide a lexicon for a subtype …

Enhancing Student-Athlete Well-Being Through Effective Leadership In College Athletics, Jake Peavey

All Student Scholarship

For many young adults, the transition from high school to college athletics can be a challenging and intimidating process. It is common knowledge that many student-athletes struggle with finding the balance between their mental health and their academic, athletic, and social responsibilities. In fact, many student-athletes feel that their commitments are greater than a full- time job when you factor in all that is expected of them (Cutler & Dwyer, 2020). Student-athlete life balance is affected by pressures such as demanding training schedules, strict dietary guidelines, expectations on performance, and many other factors that can contribute to commitments totaling over …

Characterizing The Effect Of Field-Relevant Levels Of Imidacloprid On Respiration In The Common Flesh Fly, Sarcophaga Bullata Parker (Diptera: Sarcophagidae), During Low- And High-Energy Activities., Morgan Regnier Ms ' 24

All Student Scholarship

Neonicotinoid pesticides are used worldwide due to their effectiveness in protecting crops from pests like aphids, thrips, moths, flies, and beetles. These insecticides are applied on surfaces or absorbed systemically by plants, where insects encounter them through contact or ingestion. While beneficial for agriculture, they also negatively impact nontarget species. Numerous studies have reported the inhibitory effects of sublethal exposure to neonicotinoid-based insecticides on nontarget insects, especially pollinators such as bees, flies, and beetles. While research has demonstrated the toxicity of neonicotinoids, most studies have focused on low-energy activities such as walking or resting. In this research, I examined the …

Descriptions Of Interglacial Mastodons From Snowmass, Colorado, Connor White

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The Ziegler Reservoir fossil site (ZRFS) in Colorado contains over 4000 mastodon bones that date from 140,000 to 100,000 years ago. At an elevation of ~2705 meters above sea level, ZRFS represents an alpine ecosystem dated to Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 5. Formal descriptions of cheek teeth, mandibles, crania, and femora were completed. Statistical analyses of the upper and lower third molars, including a novel measurement of interloph(id) distances, indicate significant differences between ZRFS mastodons and Mammut pacificus, while falling within the ranges for Mammut americanum. This study agrees with the taxonomic assignment of ZRFS mastodons to Mammut …

Baseline Assessment And Early Effects Of A Network Of Marine Protected Areas, Victor Brun, Laurre Thierry De Ville D'Avray, Ma. May Saludsod, Roger D. Dolorosa, Niño Jess Mar F. Mecha, Kent Olson S. Sorgon, Joachim Claudet

Biology Faculty Publications

Marine protected areas (MPAs) can be a useful tool to manage coastal ecosystems, delivering both social and ecological outcomes. However, in many instances, relevant data is missing to conduct proper impact assessments, which is key to identifying ecological and social synergies and potential trade-offs, and to adapting management according to local objectives. The ecological effects of an MPA established in Palawan, Philippines, in 2016, were assessed. The most common species targeted by fisheries were identified by local fishers. Species size and number were collected through underwater visual census with n = 288 belt transects assigned in different sites and locations …

An Investigation Into The Structural Features That Control Factor Xiii Stability And Substrate Specificity., Rameesa Darul Amne Syed Mohammed

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Factor XIII (FXIII) is a transglutaminase enzyme with multiple physiological roles that is found in plasma and cells of bone marrow origin. The catalytic A subunit (FXIII-A) is made of an N-terminal activation peptide (AP), β-sandwich, catalytic core, and two β-barrel domains. FXIII crosslinks the sidechains of glutamine (Q) and lysine (K) residues across plasmatic and cellular substrates. Because of its involvement in clot stabilization and determining fibrin clot size, FXIII-A is regarded as a target for developing new anticoagulants with minimal bleeding risks. However, the FXIII-A structural features that control its stability and substrate specificity largely remain unknown. Plasma …

The Evaluation Of Acute: Chronic Workload Ratios For Integration Into The Injury Mitigation Strategy Of A Sport Organization., Matthew K. Daunis

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The use of the acute:chronic workload ratio (ACWR) is a strategy presented as a means of mitigating the injury risk athletes are exposed to from their regular participation in sport. However, the current literature is inconclusive towards its effectiveness at actually mitigating injuries. The purpose of this dissertation was to determine if ACWR should be integrated into an injury mitigation strategy of a sport organization and, if so, what input, computation, and injury-related methodologies should be used with it. Retrospective injury data and velocity-based distances from training and competition demands from collegiate women’s field hockey athletes were used to investigate …

Preventing The Violent (Re)Victimization Of Sexual Minority Populations: The Role Of Social Support Networks., Bryan Charles Moore

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Every year, interpersonal violence affects an important segment of the world population, having deleterious effects on the victims, their families, and societies. Recent scholarship indicates that sexual and gender minority population groups are overrepresented among those who experience or have experienced verbal, psychological, physical, and/or sexual violence. Using an integrative approach, the current study links the past and the present to identify the contextual factors that may increase or decrease the sexual minorities’ risk of violent victimization during adulthood. This dissertation uses as a theoretical framework Bronfenbrenner’s (1977, 1979, 1994) social ecological model of human development as well as its …

Still I Rise: A Critical Utopian Action Research Study On Black Femme-Identifying And Gender Expansive Emerging Adults In Technology Leadership., Alisia Mcclain

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This Critical Utopian Action Research (CUAR) study delves into the intersection of authentic leadership, Black Feminist Thought (BFT), and technology leadership development, focusing on the perspectives of emerging adult Black femme-identifying or gender-expansive individuals. Addressing two primary research questions, the study investigates their idealized visions for technology leadership programs and discerns key factors differentiating authentic leadership from models incorporating BFT. Through qualitative analysis of Future-Creating Workshop outputs and participant narratives, the study unveils multifaceted themes. Participants articulate a vision of technology leadership development rooted in authenticity, intersectionality, and inclusivity. Their ideal programs prioritize celebrating complex identities, engaging through technology, and …

The Affable Raphael: Milton's Surrogate Instructor In Paradise Lost., Beau Kilpatrick

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

John Milton’s Paradise Lost (1667) is a beautifully written epic that continues to be a stalwart text in the English literary canon, with unlimited potential for interpretation. In this dissertation I propose that Paradise Lost can be read as a pedagogical lesson for Milton’s “fit audience,” where the author implements his views on education in the context of heaven, hell, and Paradise. In the poem, Milton presents three pedagogical methodologies: first, the wrong way to knowledge is presented through Satan’s manipulations of the fallen angels and Eve; second, the divine way to knowledge is illustrated via Michael’s prophecy to Adam …

You Don’T Look Sick: Epistemic Injustice, Ethos, And Embodied Expertise In Narratives Of Chronic Illness., Caitlin Burns Allen

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation project emerges at a cultural moment when diagnoses of chronic illness are increasing, and heightened attention is being paid to gendered medical bias and chronically ill women’s negative experiences both within and outside of the medical system. Analysis of personal narratives written by women and nonbinary people with chronic illnesses revealed deeply entrenched cultural logics related to health and gender and the significant affective and material consequences for the mobilization of those logics. Chapter One of the dissertation describes the exigence of the project in more detail, provides a robust overview of the dissertation’s methods, and reviews related …