AUETD (Auburn University)
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Imaging and Analysis of Geological Porous Media
No full textGeological carbon sequestration (GCS) is a promising technology to remove CO2 from the atmosphere. GCS is the process of capturing CO2 from large point-sources or directly from the atmosphere, transporting the captured CO2 to a storage site, and injecting it underground in geological formations for long-term storage. In this study, a calcareous dolomite sample obtained from Bartow County, Georgia was analyzed as a potential geological carbon sequestration site. Understanding carbonate rich minerals and their complex structures is crucial for predicting the impacts of dissolution and precipitation reactions when carbon dioxide is sequestered during carbon capture and storage. Here, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging is utilized to obtain high resolution backscattered electron (BSE) images and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) images of the sample’s thin section. These images were used to create mineral maps. The mineral maps were then used to evaluate 2D sample characteristics such as porosity, pore connectivity, mineral abundances, and mineral accessibilities. Following mineral map analysis 3D x-ray computed tomography (XCT) images were obtained of the core sample. XCT images were used to extract larger 3D pore networks of the sample; however, XCT imaging cannot account for small-scale surface features. The BSE and EDS images used for analysis were then applied to the XCT images to allow for 2D and 3D image analysis of the core sample. This study aims to evaluate the mineral concentrations present around pore grain interfaces in carbonates by correlating 2D images with 3D images of two regions of a highly heterogeneous carbonate sample. In addition to imaging and analysis of mineral concentrations around pore structures in carbonates, this study also includes the development of an aqueous barium chloride contrast agent for enhanced XCT imaging of core samples. Two sets of XCT images were obtained to assess the viability of the contrast agent: one for a dry Bentheimer sandstone core, and one for the Bentheimer sandstone core saturated with the aqueous barium chloride contrast agent. The captured XCT images were qualitatively processed, compared, and discussed
Developing a broccoli crop model to guide growers with sustainable decision-making
Get PDFBroccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) has emerged as a key crop for diversification in
southeastern U.S. vegetable systems, driven by regional market demand and strategic efforts to
reduce reliance on imports. However, its sensitivity to climatic conditions, particularly air
temperature leads to significant challenges in its production. This dissertation addressed two
complementary approaches to optimizing broccoli cultivation in the region: cultivar evaluation
and climate-resilient crop modeling. Field trial using commercial cultivars (Castle Dome, Eastern
Crown, Emerald Crown, Green Magic, Gipsy, Imperial, and Belstar) were conducted over two
consecutive years (2022 and 2023) during spring and fall seasons in Alabama. Cultivars were
assessed for yield performance, canopy development, and biomass accumulation. Results showed
consistent yield advantages among early-maturing cultivars under warmer conditions, while late maturing were more susceptible to seasonal variability. An air temperature-driven broccoli crop
model was adapted from the SIMPLE crop model and was calibrated using field data from the
cultivar trial. The model simulated daily biomass accumulation and final yield based on air
temperature, incorporating cultivar-specific coefficients for radiation use efficiency (RUE),
harvest index (HI), and LAI dynamics. A seasonal sensitivity analysis was performed using 20
years of historical weather data adjusted under seven air temperature scenarios (−6°C to +6°C),
with outputs generated through bootstrap simulation. The model successfully captured genotype by-environment interactions, simulated yield responses under varying air temperature conditions,
and identified critical thresholds for reduction in yield. Validation against 2023 field data
demonstrated high simulated accuracy across cultivars. The results presented here offered practical
tools for broccoli production planning in the southeastern U.S
Assessing Spoilage Risks in Raw Chicken Breast: A Convergence Approach Using Microbiological Analysis, Volatile Profiling, Metagenomics, and Data Analytics for Microbial Growth and Shelf-Life Prediction
Get PDFDisruptions in the cold chain at various stages, from poultry processing to storage, distribution, and retail, can significantly impact the shelf life and quality of raw chicken, particularly during less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation, where cyclic temperature abuse (TA) fluctuations may occur. This study evaluates the effects of short-term TA on the microbiome of fresh chicken breast and its implications for retail shelf life. To simulate real-world conditions, cyclic temperature abuse (30 minutes at 4°C followed by 1 hour at either 30°C or 37°C, repeated over 7.5 hours) was applied. While traditional spoilage studies primarily rely on standard microbiological techniques, this research integrates a novel, non-invasive electronic nose (e-nose) technology to analyze the volatile profile of raw chicken, providing an alternative approach for spoilage detection. Additionally, metagenomic analysis was conducted to characterize shifts in the spoilage microbiome. Furthermore, microbial data were used to develop a predictive feedforward neural network (FNN) model capable of estimating spoilage bacterial growth under TA conditions. This research bridges the fields of food microbiology and computational modeling, integrating advanced analytical techniques to enhance food safety and optimize supply chain management for perishable products
A Theoretical Framework for the Systematic Pathway of Early Intervention Relational OUTcomes (SPROUT) Development and Application of SPROUT
No full textPrioritizing methods to enhance infants and toddlers’ quality of life becomes imperative
due to the profound impact during the critical phase that will shape their adolescence and adult
years. The purpose of this study was to develop and apply a new theoretical framework, the
Systematic Pathway of Early Intervention Relational OUTcomes (SPROUT), to evaluate the
factors related to accessibility and usability within Early Intervention Services (EIS). This
framework captures an array of individualized aspects, through a comprehensive approach, based
on the interconnection of access and use implied by policy. Examining disparities can offer
perspective from service providers and families/caregivers with infants and toddlers with
developmental delay to highlight areas of improvement. The clinical application of SPROUT
evaluated and assessed EIS through the lens of EIS Seeking and EIS Enrollment. This analysis
examined the accessibility and usability of EIS at the national, state, and local levels specifically
for the United States, Alabama, and Georgia. Data extracted from external sources emphasized
significant variances amongst the state and local levels that highlighted disparities such as
systemic and service provider inconsistencies, lack of family and caregiver involvement, and
geographical challenges. Potential strategies for improving EIS consist of addressing
inconsistencies with data collection and advocacy for policy change that could standardized
criteria
Rural Health Perspectives: Knowledge and Accessibility of Speech-Language Pathology in Alabama
Get PDFThis study aims to evaluate the level of knowledge about speech-language pathology and communication disorders in rural and urban counties in the state of Alabama, in addition to accessibility of Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) services. A survey was developed to measure knowledge of and accessibility of speech pathology in Alabama and was distributed through social media. One hundred and fifteen responses were included in analysis. The results indicated that most participants had moderate knowledge about speech-language pathology and communication disorders, as well as moderate access to Speech-Language Pathology services. Additionally, no significant differences were found for knowledge and accessibility outcomes between rural and urban counties. There were several individuals who reported low knowledge and low accessibility, indicating a need for more education about speech pathology and communication disorders in the state of Alabama. Finally, descriptive analysis of the sample uncovered the importance of referrals to speech-language pathologists, as more referral experience was correlated with higher knowledge and access scores. Overall, these findings suggest that many individuals living in Alabama have some knowledge of and access to SLP services; however, there is room to grow to ensure adequate awareness and access to SLP’s across the state
The Strong Black Woman Schema at Work: Implications for Burnout and Engagement in the Workplace
Get PDFBurnout is a persistent threat to employee well-being and organizational effectiveness, yet little research has examined how culturally rooted identity schemas contribute to this outcome. This study extends the Strong Black Woman (SBW) schema into workplace research, using a multidimensional framework to explore its relationship with burnout and engagement. The SBW schema was assessed through three components—Affect Regulation (AR), Caretaking (CT), and Self-Reliance (SR)—to better understand its psychological costs and benefits in occupational settings. In Study 1, AR and CT were positively associated with burnout, while SR appeared protective. Study 2 expanded this work by examining the moderating role of Well-Being Human Resource Management (WBHRM) practices. Results showed that WBHRM reduced burnout and enhanced engagement overall, buffered the impact of AR on burnout. WBHRM also emerged as the strongest predictor of engagement, highlighting the power of structural supports over individual coping strategies. These findings underscore the importance of culturally responsive HR policies and call for moving beyond unidimensional models to capture how intersectional identities shape workplace well-being. Practical recommendations include flexible scheduling, mentorship opportunities, and inclusive leadership training to reduce identity-based stressors and improve long-term employee outcomes
Evaluation of the effects of photonic decontamination on reduction of Salmonella and Campylobacter and a comparative transcriptomics analysis following its application on Salmonella Infantis
Get PDFRecently, there has been an increase in research into new methods responding to the unsuccessful efforts in reducing foodborne pathogen infections associated with poultry products such as Salmonella and Campylobacter. With the looming concern of antibiotic-resistant bacteria surviving past the current antimicrobial interventions used in poultry processing along with consumer concerns and environmental impacts of the overuse of chemicals on poultry products, novel antimicrobial intervention methods have become an increasingly popular topic of conversation. The first chapter reviews published literature on these topics. Developing an effective method for reducing foodborne pathogens in animal products while preserving meat quality and application efficiency is an important topic of research. To address this, in the second chapter, we evaluated the efficacy of photonic decontamination on whole chicken wings and tenders inoculated with Salmonella and Campylobacter. Treatments included evaluating photonic decontamination alone, the inclusion of chemical antimicrobial dips with and without photonic decontamination treatment, and photonic decontamination on multiple parts simultaneously. Photonic decontamination alone and in combination with chemical dips was able to significantly reduce Salmonella and Campylobacter on both wings and tenders. Additionally, in the third chapter, we focused on elucidating the molecular basis of photonic decontamination using comparative transcriptomics analysis of Salmonella Infantis. Comparisons were made between a 100-voltage treatment and no treatment, a 200-voltage treatment and no treatment, and between a 100-voltage treatment and a 200-voltage treatment. Our results identified the list of differentially expressed genes with identified roles relating to response to light-induced cell damage, oxidative stress response, transcriptional regulation following pulsed light exposure, and stress resistance
Connections of Pipe Piles to Bridge Bent Caps: Full-Scale Tests
No full textDue to their durability, strength, and adaptability to challenging conditions, large
diameter steel pipe piles are a promising solution for multi-span bridges. However,
guidance on practical and effective connections between steel pipe piles and concrete
members is limited. An ongoing study is focused on steel pipe pile to concrete bent cap
connections in substructures, including full-scale tests of five connection types: (1)
headed-bars, (2) hooked-bars, (3) straight-bars, (4) welded shear studs, and (4) an
annular ring welded at the pile end, which are documented in this thesis.
Connection subassemblages, each consisting of a 36 in. diameter pile and a 54
in. deep bent cap, were fabricated. A 3 ft diameter steel pile was used in all cases.
Specimens were subjected to lateral load cycles of increasing intensity, inducing internal
forces to simulate service conditions and ultimate strength. Different types of sensors
were used to measure the displacement of the specimens, the strains of the steel pile
and reinforcing bars, and the rotation of the pile. Constructability of the connections was
discussed, comparing the ease of construction of each type of connection.
Results and observed behavior of all five specimens were favorable under
service- and strength-level loads. The three reinforcing steel connections vastly
exceeded the capacities estimated using conservative design assumptions and
principles. This demonstrates the significant contribution of the steel pipe pile to the
capacity of the system. The welded mechanical anchorage connections showed a
behavior closer to the estimated capacities that include the contribution of the pile. The
different types of connections presented in this study demonstrated to provide an
alternative to current practices. The annular ring and headed-bar connections represent
a great alternative to reduce the construction time of the connections
Modeling hydrology and water quality in Moore's Mill Creek using the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM)
Get PDFUrban development has long been known to be disruptive of the hydrological cycle and surface water quality. The change from natural vegetation to impervious materials tends to result in larger quantities of stormwater runoff because of lower surface infiltration, leading to flooding and stream bank erosion. Higher pollutant loads are also more likely and can lead to waterbody impairment for drinking water, recreation, and aquatic habitats. One of the most significant pollutants is sediment, which is especially common rapidly developing areas where construction site runoff is a greater issue. One such area is the Moore’s Mill Creek (MMC) watershed in Lee County, Alabama. Population growth in the cities of Auburn and Opelika over the past fifteen years has necessitated a reevaluation of the watershed management plan to address the persistent issue of sedimentation using best management practices (BMPs). Hydrological models are a valuable tool for assessing the effectiveness of BMPs by representing hydrologic and water quality behavior within a watershed. The Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) is one of the oldest and most popular of these models. Though it is ordinarily used for urban stormwater management, SWMM has hydrologic and water quality capabilities that allow it to be applied to a variety of watersheds. Stream flow data and water samples were collected across the northeast portion of the MMC watershed to calibrate hydrographs and total suspended solids pollutographs for several rain events. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to better understand the individual and combined effects of hydrologic and water quality parameters on model results. The results showed the significance of aquifer and surface storage representation to stream hydrograph accuracy and total outflow volume, as well as to pollutograph recession curves. Accounting for groundwater also improved modeled hydrograph recession curves compared to previous research in the watershed
Development of novel molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based sensors for the sensitive and selective detection of analyte
Get PDFThe increasing importance of monitoring environmental changes resulting from chemical stimuli affects various aspects of human life, including daily routines, healthcare, and manufacturing. Addressing this demand necessitates advanced sensor units with specific attributions, such as sensitivity, excellent selectivity, rapid response times, stability, and reusability. Conducting polymers (CPs) have arisen as a promising avenue in the field of sensors due to their advantages, including ease of fabrication, cost-effectiveness, lightweight, and the potential to tailor surface functional groups. However, they face challenges in sensitively detecting target molecules due to their relatively weak interaction, and achieving selectivity is a key objective. In light of these challenges, we conduct research on Molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based CP sensors to achieve sensitive and selective detection of target analytes. MIPs are functional porous materials with high-affinity binding sites that closely match the dimension and functionality of the analyte. By establishing active sensing sites through covalent or non-covalent bonding between the sensing material and target molecules, we aim to mimic the biological antibodies. MIPs offer various advantages compared to antibodies, including ease of production, cost-effectiveness, reusability, and chemical stability, allowing for long-term storage at room temperature, While research on MIPs is actively conducted across various applications such as chemical and biosensors, absorbents, membranes, and catalysts, there remains a need for increased investigation on the bonding formation between functional monomers and target analytes for the construction of binding sites. However, the use of MIPs in electroanalytical methods still presents challenges such as low electrical conductivity, difficulty in immobilizing MIPs on electrode surfaces, and limited accessibility to binding sites. These limitations can be resolved by employing conducting monomers to create MIPs. Recently, molecularly imprinted conducting polymer (MICP)-based electrochemical sensors have gained significant attention due to their advantages, including simplified fabrication and immobilization, intrinsic electrical conductivity, and uniform binding sites. This review describes the advantages and issues of MICPs compared to traditional molecularly imprinted non-conducting polymers (MINPs). Significant challenges, such as reduced sensitivity and selectivity, and potential strategies to overcome these limitations are discussed for high-performance electrochemical devices. Herein, we studied bonding formation for active binding sites between functional monomers and target analytes, utilizing diverse analytes and sensing techniques