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Breaking Down Data Science: A Low-Code Machine Learning Platform
No full textWith the rising popularity of data science and digital data storage, companies of many scales are looking to harness their data for decision making. Bentley Ave Data Labs, a data consultancy group, has sought to capitalize on this rising popularity by commissioning a low code machine learning platform. This thesis will explore the creation of a low code machine learning platform, intended to allow non-technical audiences to experience the power of data science.
The application will use Streamlit to allow for a user-friendly user interface and Python for the backend coding. The application will allow the user to clean, visualize, model, and interpret data from any CSV or Excel file. The models will be classification and regression based to accommodate a number of data types and include classification models such as Random Forest and Logistic Regression and regression models such as Polynomial Regression, Random Forest Regression, and Lasso Regression. The application detailed in this thesis will allow non-technical audiences to harness the power of data science and help push them towards data driven decisions
Analysis of the Mechanical, Microstructural, and Biocompatibility Properties of Novel Magnesium-based Hybrid Nanocomposite Materials for Orthopedic Applications
No full textBone fractures and complete joint replacements are becoming more common, primarily because of accidents and age-related issues. Conventional solutions to treat these orthopedic injuries involve inert metal alloys to correct bone fractures until the healing process is complete, where a secondary revision surgery is then required to remove the implant. Issues regularly associated with these solutions include stress shielding, bone resorption, infection, inflammation, and implant loosening. Magnesium (Mg)-based nanocomposites offer promising potential as an alternative to commonly used metal alloys because of their favorable mechanical properties and biocompatibility. A particularly advantageous property of Mg is its natural biodegradation in vivo, meaning the implant will dissolve once healing has been completed, eliminating the need for revision surgeries. However, Mg’s naturally high corrosion rate presents significant challenges for these applications, including compromised mechanical stability and biocompatibility. This research investigates the effects of boron nitride (BN) and silicon carbide (SiC) nanoparticle reinforcement on the degradation behavior, mechanical strength, microstructural properties, and biocompatibility of Mg-based nanocomposites. The influence of adding each nanoparticle individually showed a significantly positive effect on mechanical and corrosion properties in current literature. However, further investigation into the effect of adding these two nanoparticles together into the magnesium matrix has yet to be conducted. Therefore, this study investigates the influence of adding these two nanoparticles in equal volume percentages to create hybrid Mg-based nanocomposites to more comprehensively assess their combined influence on mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. Characterization techniques included porosity measurements, Vickers microhardness testing, contact angle analysis, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Biocompatibility was assessed through cell viability assays and a PFA cell fixation study, while corrosion performance was evaluated via SEM imaging, electrochemical corrosion tests, and immersion testing in complete αMEM, followed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The Zk60-0.5%BN-0.5%SiC nanocomposite exhibited improved hardness, refined grain structure, and strong interparticle bonding with minimal porosity. SEM and EDX analyses confirmed uniform nanoparticle dispersion and grain boundary reinforcement. However, the same composite also showed increased corrosion susceptibility, as indicated by higher pH shifts, greater Mg ion release, and more pronounced Mg(OH)₂ surface deposits during SEM characterization. Biocompatibility assays revealed moderate cytotoxicity in both the Pure Zk60 and Zk60-0.5%BN-0.5%SiC groups, with reduced cell adhesion linked to elevated corrosion rates in the latter. Despite these challenges, the mechanical benefits and early-stage cell attachment suggest strong potential for orthopedic use. Future work should focus on optimizing nanoparticle volume fractions and applying corrosion-resistant coatings to enhance the long-term viability of Mg-based nanocomposites in clinical settings. Overall, the Mg nanocomposites reinforced with BN and SiC nanoparticles demonstrated enhanced mechanical and microstructural properties suitable for orthopedic implants, but the increased corrosion rate needs to be addressed before clinical applications
Subjective Acoustics
No full textHistorically, concert venues, such as large cathedrals and expansive Greek theaters have used heuristic methods for optimizing the experience of sound in accordance with the architectural essence of space. A shift in this design stratagem emerged in the late 19th century when Wallace Clement Sabine invented formal definitions for reverberation time and employed quantitative measurements to design Boston\u27s Symphony Hall. This departure from iterative, qualitatively measured sound led to a counter-culture in the 20th century called subjective acoustics. Using generally agreed upon variables such as brilliance, warmth, spaciousness, intimacy, clarity, and liveliness, researchers began surveying audiences to see if quantitative sound could match the qualitative experience of an audience member. The purpose of this inquiry is to answer the question: how does sound interact with architecture and space from the perspective of a musician and an audience member
Exploring Full-time Female Faculty Members’ Experiences with Institutional Climate in Rural Arkansas Community Colleges: A Preregistered Study
Get PDFThe current literature implies that female faculty in community colleges often endure a chilly organizational climate of marginalization. This marginalization makes female faculty more likely to leave higher education than male colleagues because of a lack of appreciation and recognition. This qualitative exploratory multiple-case study (preregistered study) uses the Job Embeddedness Theory as its conceptual framework. It explores full-time female faculty members’ (F-TFFMs) experiences with institutional climate in rural Arkansas community colleges to understand their motivations to teach in the setting and the reasons they choose to stay in their position. Findings from this study will show F-TFFMs motivations to teach and reasons for staying in rural Arkansas community colleges and can help institutions understand F-TFFMs experiences with institutional climate. Keywords: history of community colleges, women’s educational history, community college missions, organizational climate, rural communities, Arkansas community colleges, and female faculty, higher education, retention, turnover, attritio
Testing of a Novel Piezoelectric Material and Its Implementation in a Non-Invasive Contractile Force Measuring Heart-on-Chip Device
No full textHeart on chip devices are an emerging technology that is used to mimic the physical, cellular, and signaling environment of the heart on a benchtop model. This technology allows researchers to study heart diseases and new drug therapeutic strategies with more physiological relevance to the human heart than animal models and simple cell culture systems. These heart on chip devices are incredibly useful in directly measuring the contractility of beating cardiomyocytes. However, these devices are either lacking the ability to easily and continuously measure the contractility of cardiomyocytes seeded onto their platform or have relied on stiff materials to build sensors on their device, preventing the cardiomyocytes seeded on these devices to move and flex dynamically as they would in the human body. This research has produced a novel piezoelectric material that allows cardiomyocytes to contract on a flexible material while being able to continuously measure the contractility of the cardiomyocytes. This material was studied for its electrical sensitivity, material strength, electrical fatigue, and biocompatibility. It was found that the material was not significantly different when comparing biocompatibility and material strength to other established soft cell culture substrates but was significantly improved when studying electrical sensitivity and electrical fatigue resistance of the material. These results were used to design a heart on chip device which allows cardiomyocyte cells to contract on a flexible cantilever while allowing for continuous, non-invasive contractility measurements. Studies were done to determine ideal manufacturing and processing parameters for the novel piezoelectric material. Further studies will expand on determining the ideal electrode design for collecting the non-invasive contractility measurement and using this heart on chip device, also referred to as the co-cultured cardiomyocytes on chip device (coco chip) to study disease models and new pharmaceutical drugs
The Wavering Future of Democracy in Latin America
Get PDFThe erosion of democratic governance in Latin America has emerged as a critical area of concern for political scientists, policymakers, and international organizations. Historically, the region has experienced fluctuating political landscapes marked by periods of democratic consolidation followed by authoritarian regression. Throughout the 20th century, countries such as Chile, Argentina, and Brazil witnessed military dictatorships resulting from socio-economic crises and political instability. Despite widespread democratic transitions throughout the 1980s and 1990s, contemporary Latin America faces new challenges that threaten its democratic integrity. The resurgence of authoritarian tendencies within the region coincides with escalating homicide and assault rates in many countries, while the lingering impact of the pandemic has led to higher inflation and often-weak economic growth. In some places, notably Venezuela and Nicaragua, we’ve seen a simultaneous collapse of the economic, security, and democratic structures so severe that some observers have classified the two countries as ‘failed states’ (De la Cruz 2023; Hatab, 2023). While each nation’s decline follows a unique trajectory, common underlying factors raise pressing questions about the durability of democracy in Latin America as a whole. Economic instability is a particularly relevant dimension of this analysis, given the region\u27s recurring struggles with hyperinflation, recession, and financial mismanagement (Claassen, 2022). For example, Venezuela’s rapid descent into authoritarianism was closely tied to its economic collapse, driven by declining oil revenues, widespread corruption, and disastrous policy decisions that eroded public trust in democratic governance (Cyr, 2014). Similarly, countries like Argentina and Brazil have faced economic crises that have undermined political stability and contributed to the erosion of institutional legitimacy (Can, 2021). Latin America\u27s economic volatility often intersects with political corruption and crime, creating a vicious cycle that further degrades democratic institutions. When governments fail to address fundamental economic issues such as inflation, unemployment, and inequality, public frustration grows, paving the way for populist leaders to exploit economic grievances for political gain. These leaders often promise swift solutions to economic woes, sometimes at the expense of democratic norms and institutional checks. The central issue of this study concerns the extent to which public perceptions of insecurity—particularly in relation to rising physical and economic insecurity—contribute to weakening democratic norms and institutions. Security concerns have historically been instrumentalized by leaders to justify authoritarian measures, often with popular support. However, economic distress can be just as influential in shaping public perceptions of governance efficacy. The combination of economic instability, crime, and corruption creates a fertile ground for citizens to grow disillusioned with democracy and increasingly consider authoritarian governance as a viable alternative. As Latin America continues to grapple with entrenched organized crime, rampant homicide rates, ineffective governance, and economic decline, the relationship between these factors and democratic resilience requires deeper investigation. Understanding whether public fears surrounding crime and economic insecurity are driving citizens to support authoritarian governance models is essential for assessing the region’s political future. The purpose of this research is to determine whether deteriorating security conditions and economic instability are contributing to democratic backsliding within the region. By examining crime trends, public perception of insecurity, economic performance indicators, and support for democracy, this study aims to identify patterns that may indicate a broader shift towards authoritarianism. Utilizing data from sources such as the regional polling corporation Latinobarómetro, the World Bank, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and elsewhere, this study will assess whether public fears surrounding crime and economic distress are driving citizens to support authoritarian governance models as a perceived remedy to ineffective democratic institutions. This thesis seeks to contribute to the growing body of literature on democratic erosion by specifically focusing on the interconnectedness of security, economic stability, and democratic governance within Latin America. Understanding the factors that influence democratic stability is essential for developing effective policy responses aimed at safeguarding democracy in the region
Effects of intradermal injections of lipopolysaccharide on the local and systemic acute inflammatory responses in turkeys
Get PDFIn chickens, the growing feather (GF) pulp has been established as a cutaneous bioassay to monitor and assess tissue/cellular immune activities in response to intradermal (i.d.) injections of test materials. The objective of this pilot study was to determine the suitability of the GF bioassay in turkeys by examining the acute inflammatory responses initiated by i.d. GF-pulp injections of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). For this, three, 5-wk-old turkey poults were used. Two poults had 8 GFs injected (10 μL/GF) with low (L)-LPS (0.1 μg/GF) and 8 GFs with high (H)-LPS (1 μg/GF), while a third poult had 8 GFs injected with endotoxin-free PBS and 9 GFs with H-LPS. Heparinized blood and GFs were collected before (0h) and at 3h and 6h post GF-pulp injection. Blood and pulp cell suspensions were stained with a panel of chicken leukocyte-specific fluorescence-conjugated antibodies with cross-reactivity for turkey cells to identify total leukocytes, heterophils, MHC II+ cells, B cells, and T cell subsets by flow cytometry analysis. Two-way ANOVA was used to test the effects of LPS dose, time, and their interactions on leukocyte profiles in GFs, and one-way repeated measures ANOVA to test the effect of LPS on blood leukocyte (WBC) profiles over time. Tukey’s HSD test was conducted when appropriate. Significance was set at P ≤ 0.05. In GFs, both L-LPS and H-LPS stimulated leukocyte-infiltration, primarily heterophils, by 3h p.i., reaching maximal levels (% pulp cells) at 6h (P ≤ 0.05), but did not affect levels of MHCII+-, CD4+-, and CD8+--cells. However, L-LPS triggered a marginally higher αβ T cell recruitment (P = 0.052) than H-LPS. PBS also recruited heterophils but at lower levels than LPS. In the blood, i.d. LPS injection resulted in a doubling (P ≤ 0.05) of heterophil concentrations by 6h p.i., caused a transient drop in concentrations of WBC, CD4+ T cells and αβ T cells at 3h (P ≤ 0.05), but did not affect those of CD8+ T cells. For the proportions among blood leukocytes, i.d. GF-pulp injection of LPS caused an increase in % heterophils (P = 0.037), and a drop in % monocytes (P = 0.032) and % lymphocytes (P = 0.013) by 3 h and remained near these levels by 6 h p.i. There was not an effect of time on the percentage of eosinophils and basophils, however, a marginal effect of time (P = 0.090) was observed on the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio characterized by an increase at 3 h and 6 h p.i. This pilot study highlights the similarities in the inflammatory responses initiated by LPS in turkeys and chickens and demonstrates the applicability of the two-window (GF and blood) approach to study local and systemic immune system responses in turkeys. A study is underway to further assess the inflammatory response to LPS from its initiation to resolution in turkeys
Survey of a Paired Gravity Anomaly within the Benton Uplift of the Ouachita Mountains
Get PDFThe Benton Uplift west of Hot Springs, AR is underlain by a paired gravity anomaly on the order of 80 mGal. Nicholas & Rozendal (1975) have theorized that the gravitational low is caused by a “downwarp of the crust into the mantle”1 however the cause of the gravitational high is still debated. This paired gravity anomaly within the Benton Uplift follows the Ouachita orogenic belt southwest for 500 miles where it meets the Marathon uplift in southwest Texas. We conducted a gravity survey along a 108-km-long transect east of two previous gravity surveys.2,3 We corrected the data from this transect using Oasis Montaj and, alongside magnetic data from the United States Geological Survey, we built a model within Geosoft GM-SYS of the cross section of our study area.4 The topography of the upper crust within our cross section is consistent with the cross section from Mickus & Keller (1992), Figure 5, however the mafic intrusion under the Ouachita accretionary wedge was absent within our data, likely because our transect did not go south enough. Previous research has theorized the gravity maximum to be caused by a combination of basement uplifts and mafic intrusions produced during aborted Precambrian rifting along the Ouachita orogenic belt.5 Additional seismic and magnetic surveys south of the study area and across the Ouachita orogenic belt are needed to further test the hypothesis that a combination of basement uplifts and dense deep crustal mafic intrusions are the most likely cause of the paired gravity anomalies
Latino Voter Turnout in the Nuevo South
Get PDFLatinos have had a growing presence in the South for years, leading it to be referred to as the “Nuevo South.” This thesis will examine Latino voter turnout in the South and the factors that influence them to show up at the polls. This study uses data from the Collaborative Multi-racial Post-Election Survey (CMPS) for 2016 and 2020. Through this data, I seek to understand why turnout is low and which factors impact turnout the most. I use rational choice theory to further understand how Latinos choose whether or not which considers the advantages and disadvantages of voting. Throughout this research, I found that factors such as electoral laws, voter education, and candidate representation all impact voter turnout among Latinos in the South. I also found that further research needs to be conducted to continue to understand the complexities of Latino voter behavior and how they can be addressed
Creative Brief for North Shores Resort & Marina
Get PDFIn today’s experience-driven travel market, destinations that offer authenticity, affordability, and a sense of community stand out. North Shores Resort and Marina, located on the scenic northeast end of Lake Ouachita, has long been a hidden gem offering a strong sense of family and community, prolonged camper stays, and more economical pricing compared to nearby marinas. Despite consistently high occupancy rates for boat slips and campsites, North Shores has an opportunity to expand its visibility and grow its customer base through improved marketing strategies. As a former employee with direct insight into the day-to-day operations, I identified key areas where North Shores can enhance its presence—particularly through a refreshed website design, an on-site reservation system, increased event promotion, and stronger Instagram engagement. This creative brief outlines a comprehensive and strategic approach to elevate North Shores’ marketing efforts, build brand awareness, and attract both returning and new visitors by leveraging its unique location, community atmosphere, and value-driven offerings. I propose my ideas in the form of a creative brief and strategic pitch