Journals@UC (University of Cincinnati)
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Incentivizing the Commercial Recycling of Textiles and E-waste
No full textRecord ID: 126
Award(s): Excellence in Undergraduate Research Mentorship
Program Affiliation: Capstone
Presentation Type: Poster
Abstract: The US alone produces over 20 million tons of electronic and textile waste combined every year. Over 60% of all textile waste and over 80% of all electronic waste end up in landfills each year. With increases in technological advancements in electronics and a growing demand for latest fashion trends, E-waste and textiles are rapidly filling up landfills. E-waste has even become the fastest growing solid waste stream in the world. While there are some existing programs in Cincinnati that serve as recycling centers for textiles and E-waste, they are often hard to access or charge the public for their services causing the recycling of these products to be a less viable option. In order to create easier, more mainstream processes for the people of Cincinnati to recycle their unwanted electronics and textiles, this project aims to incentivize commercial recyclers to allow free curbside pickup for textiles as well as offer conveniently located, free to use, e-waste drop off bins for these unwanted items through local and state government partnership with for-profit recycling companies.  
Community Cats: Monitoring Activity with Camera Traps
Get PDFRecord ID: 230
Program Affiliation: Capstone
Presentation Type: Poster
Abstract: Felis catus, or the domestic housecat, has been named one of the top 100 most destructive invasive species on the planet. Our primary objective in this study was to monitor public parks near urban areas to determine the presence of roaming cats in the Cincinnati and Covington area. We chose these locations because there have been significant reports of roaming cats in Covington, and Hamilton county has a robust TNR (trap, neuter, release) program with multiple locations throughout the area. To test the difference in cat frequency between urban parks in the two counties, motion-sensing cameras baited with cat food were placed at different locations around Covington to establish an interactions/hour metric, which we could then compare to data from various city parks around the Greater Cincinnati area, using the same testing method. The interactions/hour data for testing sites in Hamilton county were considerably lower than sites within the city of Covington. In many testing sites, zero cats were observed per hour, and other animals like squirrels, raccoons and dogs were observed consuming the cat food. We propose that high participation in TNR programs, decreased access to supplemental feeding, and lower abundance of mating opportunities within Hamilton county to be contributing factors in the discrepancy
Impact of Cyanobacteria and Their Associated Toxins on Fish Gut Microbiomes
No full textRecord ID: 312
Program Affiliation: NA
Presentation Type: Poster
Abstract: The field of freshwater fish microbiome is still widely under-studied and is largely focused on marine fish and fish mucous membranes. The gut microbiome of fish is a gateway to understanding the influences of toxins and primary producers in a system. Knowing the impact on the microbiome can give light to the health of the fish in the system or the overall health of the system. It\u27s known that the Central stoneroller fish has a vast diversity of its gut microbiome but also is very immersed in its environment as it consumes algae in the system. Diving into relationships between the environment and fish gut microbiome in a simulation, the goal was to find direct links between toxins and the impacts on the Central Stonerollers. The target species, the Central stonerollers, are native to the Little Miami River; the fish collected from the experiment system were then dissected. The guts were extracted and DNA sequenced by the Environmental Protection Agency. The outcome of this work will help build an understanding of the health of our streams and fish compared to the toxins that are produced by primary producers. 
Empowering Cincinnati\u27s Clean Energy Future: Designing Incentives for Building Electrification
No full textRecord ID: 224
Program Affiliation: Capstone
Presentation Type: Video
Abstract: The urgent need to mitigate climate change and foster sustainable urban development has spurred cities like Cincinnati to embark on ambitious initiatives such as the Green Cincinnati Plan. This project aims to investigate the effectiveness of incentivizing developers to electrify new buildings or integrate adaptable infrastructure for future all-electric conversion. Through a multidisciplinary lens, this research examines the design and implementation of incentives tailored to the local context, considering economic, social, and environmental factors. By analyzing best practices, stakeholder engagement, and policy frameworks, the study seeks to provide actionable insights to policymakers and urban planners. Additionally, this research will include examples of electrification initiatives from other states and countries, offering valuable comparative perspectives. The outcome of this work not only contributes new knowledge on incentivization strategies but also fosters the transition towards a healthier, more equitable, and resilient Cincinnati
Service-Learning Collaboratory: International Education Opportunities
No full textRecord ID: 334
Award(s): Excellence in Undergraduate Research Mentorship
Program Affiliation: Service Learning
Presentation Type: Video
Abstract: This video presentation will display the progress and outcomes of our group\u27s mission to incorporate service learning into the faculty-led study abroad in Vancouver, Canada. The research team worked alongside the College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies and the International Experience Program to bring the University of Cincinnati\u27s service-learning program abroad. At the time of writing, we were working with the client to finalize the budget and itinerary for said trip to Vancouver as well as finding an organization to partner with for experiential learning. We were able to confirm the itinerary and budget with the client; elaborating on the previous itinerary and budget being used for the trip. We also developed marketing materials and strategies to present to students in an effort to gain interest. The client used these materials to plan the upcoming Service-Learning trip to Vancouver, Canada, and the introduction of UC\u27s Service-Learning program abroad.  
Sky Fruit Seed Crush (SFSC): A Potential Source of less Salt Curing of Raw Goatskin
No full textThe curing of raw hides and skins using sodium chloride salt is a widely recognized technique, although it has negative consequences for the environment by elevating water salinity and introducing a significant amount of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). In order to tackle this issue, goat skin was conserved through the utilization of a mixture consisting of crushed sky fruit seeds and sodium chloride salt. Various ratios of mixtures were applied to raw goat skin to determine an optimal outcome. The most favorable result was achieved by utilizing a blend of 10% seed crush and 10% salt, based on the weight of the raw skin. A control specimen was run with the experimental specimen, and preservation-related variables such as odor, hair loss, shrinkage temperature, moisture level, and bacterial population were evaluated. After preservation, the experimental sample and a control sample were subjected to the standard leather processing technique. The liquor from both samples was analyzed to confirm the impact of the environment on preservation. The experimental trial indicated a 59% decrease in total dissolved solids (TDS) and a 44% reduction in chloride (Cl−) content. The processed leather samples were assessed for their quality through an analysis of their physical properties. Besides, the fiber structures were assessed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The comparative evaluation of the physiochemical properties of the introduced preservation showed superb results with the hope of new preservation possibilities
Crafting Superior Dress Shoes: Technical Advancements in Utilizing South African Ostrich Leg Skins in Ethiopia
No full textThis study explores the utilization of African ostrich leg skins, sourced from South Africa, in the production of high-quality leather footwear in Ethiopia. It begins with a thorough analysis of the raw materials, particularly their fat and protein contents, while also evaluating the most effective tanning methods. The research focuses on the impact of chrome and semi-chrome tanning on the leather’s physical and structural qualities, highlighting its unique texture and durability. Through comprehensive trials conducted in Ethiopia, the study examines the leather’s thermal stability, fiber structure, and performance metrics. The results reveal that chrome tanning is better suited for producing footwear, as it enhances leather strength and yields leather with minimal stretch, making it ideal for crafting durable upper shoe components. On the other hand, semi-chrome tanning, as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy, yields softer leather with better fiber separation, suitable for luxury leather bags’ decorative features. The findings demonstrate that specialized tanning techniques can enhance both the aesthetic and functional attributes of ostrich leg leather, promoting its inclusion in high-end leather products. This approach not only broadens the variety of materials for the Ethiopian leather industry but also supports economic growth and market expansion through sustainable practices and product innovation
he Future of Leather Production Based on Chemicals Evaluation in Conjunction with Modern Tools for Higher Performing Processes and Lower Environmental Impact
No full textIn response to rising pressure from both market forces and global institutions, the leather manufacturing sector is actively seeking solutions to minimize its environmental impact. This has triggered an increase in research and development with a particular focus on sustainable chemistry as the pillar for creating a more responsible and future-proof industry. Additionally, there’s a call for transparency and robust assessments of industry practices to empower customers and minimize environmental impact. This study explored the potential of bio-based chemicals in tanning, retanning, and finishing processes. It compared different tanning technologies based on their chemical composition, bio-based content, tanning procedures, and environmental impact using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology. The traditional chromium tanning process served as the benchmark, while the Olive oil Mill Wastewater technology (OMW) received particular attention due to its high bio-based content. The study concludes by comparing the effectiveness, safety, and environmental impact of different tanning technologies. It demonstrates that the OMW process, with its high bio-based content, produces high-quality leather with significantly less environmental impact compared to traditional methods
Influence of Outsole Structures on Foot Loading and Gait Stability: Solution for Comfort and Stability of Leather High Heels
No full textAs the downstream products most relevant to the leather industry, leather shoes perform well in the global market. Consumers have put forward high requirements for the comfort and safety of leather shoes in recent years, especially for high heels, whose unique outsole structure often causes foot overloading. The outsole structure varies in ground-contacted mode and heel base size, and plays a decisive role in its function, affecting gait patterns. This study aimed to investigate differences in foot loading and gait stability induced by different outsole structures, at two typical heel heights. Six pairs of customized high heels (3 outsole structures × 2 heel heights) were tested on eighteen healthy females while walking by the Novel Pedar-X in-shoe plantar pressure system. Taking the thick high heels for the intermediate control group, the main effects of the outsole structures and the heel heights, and their interactions on the plantar pressures were analyzed by Two-way repeated ANOVAs. The center of pressure displacements and velocities were calculated throughout the whole stance phase. The results indicated that the whole ground-contacted mode of the outsole displayed better stability in the medial-lateral direction in the early stance phase but may increase the risk of hallux valgus because of the elevated load there. On the contrary, the smaller heel base size exhibited poorer stability in the medial-lateral direction in the early stance phase and would increase forefoot loading. The response of gait characteristics to heel height change is more prominent, which could cause a more vulnerable gait posture. The results could be relevant to improving high-heel functional design, positively motivating the transformation and upgrading of the leather shoe industry