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Indigenous Led Ecological Restoration Project
Get PDFOur project explores Indigenous-led ecological restoration through the case of the Blackfoot Nation’s buffalo restoration efforts. We examine how this work reflects broader themes of social geography, cultural revitalization, biodiversity conservation, and theoretical approaches parallel to or stemming from Indigenous research. The ILER project is designed to support Blackfoot-led buffalo restoration by answering core questions using qualitative and geospatial data, led by team of environmental social scientists at Boise State University in partnership with Blackfeet Community College and guided by an advisory board of Blackfoot Elders. Each group member brings a unique lens, ranging from research reciprocity and ethical collaboration with Indigenous communities to governance fragmentation and the intersections of biodiversity and climate policy. Rather than presenting a single argument, our goal is to foster a conversation across disciplines and perspectives. Through this project, we examine how Indigenous-led restoration projects confront the institutional and environmental legacies of colonialism to restore ecologically and culturally significant species like buffalo. Together, we highlight how buffalo restoration offers a powerful model for ecological healing, governance relations, and the future of collaborative research
Investigating Whether Big Basin Sagebrush (\u3cem\u3eArtemisia tridentata\u3c/em\u3e) Facilitates Native Plant Diversity via Soil Conditioning
No full textBiodiversity shapes ecosystems’ functions, including many that humans rely upon [1]. Some species can increase local biodiversity by creating niches that would be otherwise unavailable in their absence, facilitating the presence of other species [2]. In the western, U.S. big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) is a foundational shrub species in arid desert ecosystems. A survey of sagebrush steppe plant species at several experimental plots in Southwest Idaho found higher diversity of plant species beneath sagebrush canopies compared to adjacent areas without sagebrush plants (interspace areas) [3]. This indicates that sagebrush may facilitate plant species diversity, possibly by altering soil properties. To investigate whether sagebrush facilitates native plant diversity by altering local soil properties, I will conduct a manipulative greenhouse experiment. Seed mixes created utilizing eight native forb species will be planted in soil collected from underneath sagebrush plants and in soil from interspace areas at two different sites in Southwest Idaho. I predict that greater richness of the planted species will be observed when grown in sagebrush soils compared to interspace soils. This result would suggest that sagebrush facilitates plant diversity by conditioning soils, and prompt further questions about the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon.
References Cardinale, B. J., Duffy, J. E., Gonzalez, A., Hooper, D. U., Perrings, C., Venail, P., Narwani, A., Mace, G. M., Tilman, D., Wardle, D. A., Kinzig, A. P., Daily, G. C., Loreau, M., Grace, J. B., Larigauderie, A., Srivastava, D. S., & Naeem, S. (2012). Biodiversity loss and its impact on humanity. Nature, 486(7401), 59–67. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature11148 McIntire, E. J. B., & Fajardo, A. (2014). Facilitation as a ubiquitous driver of biodiversity. New Phytologist, 201(2), 403–416. https://doi.org/10.1111/nph.12478 Fox, S., Addams, R., Levy, H., deGraff, M., Caughlin, T., Bittleston, L., Simler-Williamson, A. (2024). Interactions between plant community diversity and soil biotic and abiotic properties in sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) steppe ecosystems. Idaho Conference on Undergraduate Research. Poster
From Lasers to Ignition: How Indirect-Drive Makes Fusion Possible
Get PDFThe indirect-drive laser fusion serves as a vital method for developing clean, sustainable energy. The laser beams direct their energy at the internal surface of the small metal cylinder known as a hohlraum. The hohlraum converts laser light into X-rays that produce symmetrical compression of the tiny fuel capsule for fusion ignition. The system requires absolute symmetry for operation because fuel compression irregularities decrease energy output and prevent ignition from happening. The method requires exact laser timing together with high-density carbon capsules and carefully designed energy pulses. Scientists use this advanced fusion technique to study practical fusion power generation in current research projects
Born Russian, Die Ukrainian (Detail 3)
No full texthttps://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/mfa_images_2025/1017/thumbnail.jp
Beyond the Screen: How Social Media Shapes Mental Health, Physical Health, and Academics
No full textObjective: The purpose of this research study was to find the correlation between social media and 18-25 year olds. Methodology: We collected survey data using Qualtrics online survey tool. We posted the survey to our social media utilizing our social media network. Sample: We received completed surveys from 182 respondents out of the 245 respondents who either did not qualify or did not finish. The average age of respondents in our sample was 21 and varied from 18 - 25. We had 121 females and 61 males for the majority of the sample. Analysis: We analyzed the data using SPSS statistical software and primarily conducted T - tests. We also used cross tabulations to see correlation between the variables. Key Findings: The pattern of our results suggest that females compare themselves to others more than males Females have poorer mental health than males because of this Females rate themselves lower for physical health too Social media promotes negative comparison Social media reduces sleep, is a distraction before bed and during exercise
Assessing the Stability and Age of Riverine Islands of the Payette River Using Soil Characteristics, Historic Aerial Photos, and Remote Sensing Techniques
No full textMid-channel islands in rivers, or riverine islands, fulfill numerous different roles from providing habitat heterogeneity to hosting permanent human settlements. Analysis of soils, historic photos, and remote sensing techniques provide insights into the age and stability of riverine islands. Dams placed upstream of riverine islands in the North Fork of the Payette River 1940’s -1950’s starved islands of sediment which could lead to a reduction in island area; however, decreased peak stream flows due to upstream dams could increase island stability. Soil textures on the riverine islands consistently were \u3e 90% sand composition, and nearby floodplains were either loamy sand or sandy-clay loam texture. Soils on both islands and floodplains are fluvent soils, and the riverine islands showed little in terms of soil horizon development. There is little difference in relief between the islands (gradient \u3c 2.0%). Ponderosa pine trees on the riverine islands, willows, and other undergrowth vegetation indicate island stability, likely related to discharge control provided by the dams. Since the dams were constructed, peak annual discharge on the North Fork of the Payette River has never exceeded 2200 cfs. Historical, aerial photographs dating back to the 1990’s reveal an increase in island size and vegetation
Development of a Ferromagnetic Resonance Measurement System for Microwave-Magnetic Interaction Analysis
No full textFerromagnetic resonance (FMR) is a powerful technique for studying the interaction between microwaves and magnetic materials. Microscopic magnetic phenomena, such as FMR, enable the control and manipulation of magnetic materials through external fields. In this research, an FMR measurement system is being developed to analyze how external magnetic fields induce resonance in a material’s magnetic moments. By measuring the resonance frequency, we can determine the material’s ability to absorb specific microwave frequencies and power levels. The system is designed to be highly sensitive to different types of magnetic materials, their thicknesses, magnetic ordering, and chemical composition. These findings are essential for understanding magnetic material behavior in wireless applications, providing insights into their potential for advanced communication technologies
Speb Small Molecule Inhibitor Library Can Be Synthesized Using a Fluorosulfonyl 2,3-Dimethyl Imidazol-3-Ium Triflate Salt in a Sufex Reaction
No full textStreptococcus pyogenes, a group A streptococcus (GAS) bacterium, can cause severe infections such as necrotizing fasciitis, a flesh-eating disease. The only existing treatments for advanced infections are amputation or debridement. The bacteria produce a harmful toxin called Streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin B (SpeB), which helps facilitate the infection\u27s course. Due to this behavior, inhibiting SpeB is a crucial goal in constructing new treatments. Expanding upon prior work by Kitamura et al., we utilized a safer sulfur(VI)-fluoride exchange (SuFEx) click chemistry method, relying on the accessible fluorosulfonyl 2,3-dimethyl imidazole-3-ium triflate salt, to design a series of small molecule inhibitors (SMIs) targeting SpeB. Through an in vitro assay evaluating SpeB activity, we discovered that one SMI, which featured a sulfamate moiety, effectively inhibited SpeB. This study has not only explored SuFEx click chemistry methodology but also offered hope for the development of a novel therapeutic option to combat necrotizing fasciitis and improve patient outcomes
Sustainable Transportation in a Growing City: Implementing a Commuter Rail for the Treasure Valley Area
No full textThe rapid growth of Idaho’s Treasure Valley area requires an innovative solution to address the mounting transportation challenges. This research project explores the implementation of a commuter rail as a sustainable transportation option, focusing on its social, economic, and environmental benefits. By partnering with the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), the project emphasizes social equity, ensuring equal access to affordable and reliable public transit for all community members. This solution aims to foster accessibility and inclusivity of transportation, reducing transportation disparities. Economically, a commuter rail offers a solution to alleviate traffic congestion, significantly reducing the costs associated with time lost in commuting. Improving efficiency for workers and businesses contributes to local economic growth and improved productivity. Furthermore, the project aligns with environmental sustainability goals by lowering carbon emissions, mitigating air pollution, and reducing greenhouse gas outputs. The commuter rail system would promote healthier living conditions and reinforce the Treasure Valley\u27s commitment to environmental stewardship.
This research project highlights the multifaceted impact of sustainable transportation infrastructure, emphasizing its potential to support the growing Treasure Valley area’s needs. By integrating innovative design and effective policy frameworks, the proposed commuter rail system aspires to transform the Treasure Valley into a model of sustainable urban development and infrastructure