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Academic Makerspaces: A Case Study in Stem Effectiveness
Get PDFStatement of the Purpose
This study investigates the effectiveness of academic makerspaces in enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. The primary purpose of this study is to explore how these hands-on learning environments contribute to critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ultimately improving STEM learning outcomes. Additionally, the study aims to identify the institutional factors, such as policies and resource allocation, crucial for the successful integration and sustainability of makerspaces within educational institutions.
Methods
The study begins with a preliminary survey distributed to potential respondents, allowing them to express their initial insights and interest in participating. The response of interest from participants required them to give consent for the in-depth interview to take place. In-depth interviews with staff from professional higher education institutions represent the significant data source in this qualitative case study. Social constructivism and connectivism provide a framework for this analysis, underlining the collaborative and experiential learning environment. This framework helps determine how learning within makerspaces develops through social interaction, a collaboration of peers, and digital networks in each STEM subject curriculum.
Findings of the Dissertation Research
Results indicated that makerspaces integrated into formal STEM curricula significantly enhance students' levels of engagement, self-efficacy, and practical problem-solving. Students who use makerspaces have increased their ability to apply theoretical concepts in real-life settings; hence, they improve both their interest and ability in STEM fields. Critical success factors in institutional policies, resource avowal, and staff training all contribute in creating inclusive, resilient, and impactful makerspaces.
This study recommends embedding makerspaces more deeply in STEM curricula, intending to realize the maximum educational benefit, given that access consistently develops interdisciplinary collaboration and experiential learning. It is recommended that further research be undertaken on the long-term impacts of makerspace experiences on students' career paths in STEM and the development of specialist staff training programs for enhanced operational support
Feature Selection with Random Forest for Ransomware Detection
Get PDFRansomware continues to be a significant cybersecurity threat, requiring advanced detection techniques to mitigate its impact. In this study, we investigate the effectiveness of feature selection using the Random Forest machine learning algorithm for ransomware detection. Two datasets were analyzed: a large-scale Android ransomware dataset from Kaggle and the Ransomware Dataset 2024, containing various malware families with a strong focus on ransomware including notorious strains such as Cerber, REvil, and WannaCry. Feature selection was conducted using Random Forest's feature importance ranking, and multiple classification experiments were performed to evaluate model performance
COLORADO TICK FEVER VIRUS-MEDIATED APOPTOSIS IN HUMAN ENDOTHELIAL CELLS
Get PDFColorado tick fever virus (CTFV) is a double-stranded RNA virus that belongs to the genus Coltivirus of the Reoviridae family, and it is the causative agent of Colorado tick fever (CTF). CTF symptoms are characterized by sudden diphasic fever, headache, myalgia, petechial rash, and photophobia. Pediatric patients infected with CTFV can develop serious clinical manifestations such as meningitis or encephalitis. Unfortunately, no drug therapy exists for CTF and there is little information on the mechanisms underlying CTFV-induced pathology during infection. In previous work, we investigated the interactions between endothelial cells and CTFV and show that CTFV induces apoptosis in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1). However, the exact mechanisms of apoptosis initiation remain unknown. In the current study, we sought to characterize the mechanisms of CTFV-induced apoptosis in HMEC-1 cells by investigating the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways. Real-time quantitative PCR and western blot data suggest that both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways are activated during CTFV infection in HMEC-1 cells. We also sought to evaluate the effect of specific inhibitors on CTFV-induced apoptosis and cell death by measuring caspase-3/7 activity and cell viability following treatment of infected and uninfected HMEC-1 cells with specific caspase inhibitors. This data suggests that while pathway-specific inhibitors, such as caspase-8 or caspase-9 inhibitors, did not reduce CTFV-induced apoptosis and cell death, grouped inhibitors that inhibit both pathways did show a reduction in CTFV-induced apoptosis and cell death. Collectively, the data suggest that both intrinsic and
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extrinsic pathways are initiated during CTFV-induced apoptosis. This is the first study to investigate the mechanisms of CTFV-induced apoptosis in HMEC-1 cells and the results of this study may reveal early infection therapeutic targets, providing a first step for future therapeutic studies and developing better treatments for severe cases of CTF
Building Bridges: African American Culture Should be Integrated into Police Academy Training
No full textThe relationship between law enforcement and the African American community has been marred by a long history of mistrust, discrimination, and violence. High-profile incidents of police brutality and racial profiling have further strained this relationship, highlighting the urgent need for reform in policing practices. This paper argues that integrating African American culture into police academy training is essential for improving community trust, reducing bias, and promoting effective policing. The paper begins by examining the historical context of racism and discrimination in policing and its impact on African American communities. It then explores the key aspects of African American culture and the importance of cultural competency in policing. The benefits of incorporating African American culture into police training are discussed, including enhanced cultural awareness, reduced implicit bias, improved communication, and better conflict resolution skills. The paper also addresses the challenges in police training, such as the lack of diversity, insufficient emphasis on cultural competency, and resistance to change. Strategies for integrating African American culture into police academies are presented, including recruiting and retaining African American officers, collaborating with community leaders, implementing immersive cultural training programs, and incorporating African American history and perspectives into the curriculum. Finally, the paper addresses potential objections to cultural training and emphasizes the importance of ongoing commitment and support for these initiatives. The conclusion underscores the critical role of cultural competency and why police academies should integrate mandatory cultural awareness programs that educate officers about African American history, culture, and community dynamics.LEMI
Reduce Recidivism
No full textThis proposal addresses recidivism by establishing partnerships with non-profit and faith-based organizations with county jails. For many years, the focus on incarceration has been mainly punitive, with little focus on rehabilitation. It certainly appears the majority of those incarcerated were successfully punished, however, the punishment did little to address, or reduce, recidivism across the board. It is important to learn from the past to make positive changes to the incarceration system. Hopefully, the past has shed light on the fact that there should be a balance between punitive justice and rehabilitative justice. Meaning while someone is being incarcerated and punished for the crime(s) they committed, they should also be offered and given rehabilitative options so that when released back to society, they have training and skills to help them thrive. Many inmate programs can help reduce the cycle of recidivism. The objective is to implement inmate programs that focus on rehabilitation, skill-building, and support services, and focus on building relationships with the inmates before they are released. By leveraging the resources of community organizations, these programs should create a comprehensive approach to reduce reoffending rates and promote successful reintegration into society. If we can encourage more county jails to partner with their local non-profit and faith-based organizations, it will encourage a holistic approach to inmate rehabilitation. This approach would then begin to break down the negative barriers of the many who do not believe in the positive impact that community and faith-based support can have on breaking the cycle of incarceration. Therefore, county jails should partner with non-profit and faith-based organizations within their communities to reduce recidivism.LEMI
Nighttime Use of Emergency Vehicle Lighting and Retroreflective Equipment
No full textEmergency vehicles used by law enforcement and other responders are routinely outfitted with modern LED lighting and retroreflective materials. The purpose of this equipment is to provide warning to motorists of the presence of an emergency incident and potentially roadside workers. Through the use of sophisticated lighting control modules, agencies can enhance nighttime roadside safety and assist motorists with making appropriate decisions to avoid collisions. With the belief that “more is better” many agencies have installed large amounts of high-intensity LED lights and highly retro reflective graphic materials, believing they are doing more to provide as much warning as possible. The unfortunate truth is that when used at night the intention of providing as much warning as possible may make the roadways less safe. As there is no governing body requiring or mandating specific uses of this equipment for law enforcement, these decisions have been left to the individual agency. Every contact that a law enforcement officer makes can be dangerous. Law enforcement agencies should do all they can to ensure a safe workplace for those officers whose duties include the roadside. Whether making a traffic stop, conducting a collision investigation, or working a DWI, the thoughtful use and programming of emergency vehicle equipment can be an integral part of ensuring nighttime roadside safety.LEMI
Riot Response
No full textLaw enforcement agencies across the nation have experienced civil unrest while responding to multiple protests in the name of justice. This unrest often occurs after a major change in society with public disapproval, or a natural disaster occurs. Most protests and demonstrations remain peaceful, allowing for unity and voices to be heard. However, emotionally charged large crowds engaging in frenzy-type environments may sometimes become violent, and can soon be classified as a riot. When law enforcement officials attempt to take action, and local government leaders favor the popular atmosphere, stand-down orders often result, and criminal actions are sure to follow. As responding law enforcement actions become harnessed, allowing unruly crowds to engage in riotous activities, serious crimes are inadvertently going to prevail. Law enforcement personnel trained in special tactics to deal with riots, and utilize specialized weapons designed for crowd control, have proven successful time and time again when allowed to perform within the scope of their duty. While responding to riotous situations without stand-down orders, law enforcement personnel can successfully maintain peace, protect life and property, and drive out any criminals insinuating a riot. Law enforcement agencies should respond to riots. Local government officials rely on their prospected law enforcement agencies to carry out day-to-day police-related tasks. They should continue to rely on law enforcement agencies to respond accordingly to such riots while giving their full support and offering resources.LEMI
Law Enforcement Use of Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing (DTC-GT) Databases for Criminal Investigations
No full textThe use of Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing (DTC-GT) DNA databases in criminal investigations has become both a topic of growing interest and controversy, particularly regarding their potential to solve cold cases involving unsolved homicides, rapes, and missing persons. These databases offer investigators a valuable tool when traditional methods have been exhausted, allowing them to generate new leads through the identification of familial DNA links. A notable example is the identification of the Golden State Killer, whose case remained unsolved for over 40 years. In addition to aiding in the resolution of cold cases, DTC-GT databases serve as a deterrent to crime, as higher detection rates have been shown to reduce recidivism. Critics argue that using these databases infringes on privacy and adds to the cost of investigations. However, users of DTC-GT services voluntarily agree to share their DNA data, acknowledging that it is not private. While cold case investigations are often resource-heavy, DTC-GT databases are essential for solving cases that would otherwise remain open. The public benefits, including providing justice for victims and enhancing public safety, far outweigh the costs. As the need for justice and crime resolution grows, DTC-GT DNA databases are an indispensable tool for law enforcement, helping to solve crimes when traditional methods fail. Despite privacy concerns, the benefits of solving cold cases and preventing further crimes make these databases a necessary resource for modern criminal investigations. Law enforcement should use direct-to-consumer genetic testing DNA databases for criminal investigations.LEMI
Spinel Ferrite, Zinc Sulfide, and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, and Utilization as Extractants for Lead and Arsenic Remediation
No full textThis research focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and application of modified nickel ferrite nanoparticles, as well as zinc sulfide (ZnS) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. These nanoparticles were synthesized using mechanochemical, pressure-assisted, and mild-temperature decomposition techniques. Characterization was done using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for determining phase changes, surface functional groups, particle size, and elemental composition.
The results indicated that stearate-capped and cholate-capped nickel ferrite nanoparticles, with average sizes of 84 nm and 54 nm, exhibited stability, magnetic properties, and promising potential for easy separation from aqueous solutions. The magnetic stearate-capped and cholate-capped nickel ferrite nanoparticles were employed as magnetic extractants for lead and arsenic remediation from water.
The batch adsorption experiments demonstrated that stearate-capped and cholate-capped nickel ferrite nanoparticles effectively removed lead and arsenic, achieving maximum removal efficiencies of 81.9% for lead and 85.6% for arsenic using 40 mg of the adsorbent. The adsorption behavior fitted the Langmuir isotherm model, indicating monolayer adsorption. The cholate-capped nickel ferrite nanoparticles exhibited the highest adsorption capacity, emphasizing the importance of surface modification.
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In conclusion, the synthesis and modification of nickel ferrite nanoparticles present a promising approach to heavy metal remediation, offering an effective solution to address environmental contamination
Enhancing Integrity and Accountability in Law Enforcement Through the Adoption of Civil Service Systems
No full textThis thesis examines the transformative potential of the state civil service system for law enforcement agencies (LEAs) in Texas, arguing for its critical role in establishing equity, fairness, and transparency in hiring, promotion, and disciplinary actions. Originating as a response to the corruption and partisan appointments of the spoils system, the state civil service system has evolved to offer a standardized framework to eliminate biased practices and promote objectivity and fairness within LEAs. Despite its benefits, many Texas police agencies remain outside this system, which can lead to accountability and public trust issues, as exemplified by the Coffee City Police Department's practices that highlight the risks of non-adherence to civil service principles. The thesis details the rules and requirements of the civil service system, including standardized testing for applicants, objective promotion processes, and a fair, transparent system for disciplinary actions. These rules collectively ensure that all applicants and officers are treated equitably, with clear promotion criteria, thus avoiding the pitfalls of biased decision-making. Furthermore, the study addresses counterarguments that criticize the civil service system for potentially delaying hiring processes or hindering the termination of officers due to procedural protections. Through analysis and case studies, these concerns are contextualized and addressed, highlighting the overall benefits of the civil service system in promoting qualified, competent, and ethically sound policing practices. The thesis underscores the importance of standardized, transparent practices in enhancing efficacy, integrity, and public trust in law enforcement.LEMI