113588 research outputs found
Sort by
The Ethnolinguistic Vitality of A'ingae in Ecuador
No full textEthnolinguistic vitality (EV) refers to the ability of an ethnolinguistic group to maintain its collective identity in intercultural contexts in the long term. EV is typically evaluated using psychological, demographic, political, economic and geographic factors tied to language domains and intergeneration transmission, and by directly examining trends in language use. In its simplest form, EV places a language on a continuum from “vital” to “endangered” based on how often, widely and diversely it is spoken. The recent attention paid to EV owes to increasing pressures on minority languages which have put thousands of Indigenous languages — including 400 in Amazonia — potentially at risk. A'ingae (Cofán, Kofán; ISO: con) is a language isolate spoken by around 1,500 A’i (“people”) whose ancestral territory lies at the crossroads of the Andean foothills and Amazon basin in northeastern Ecuador and southwestern Colombia. The relative vitality of A’ingae in Ecuador differentiates it from Colombia where it is endangered, although the EV of A’ingae has never been systematically evaluated. I combine subjective data from a sociolinguistic survey conducted by A’ingae Language Documentation Project (ALDP) team members in the communities of Sinangoe, Dureno, and Duvuno in 2020 with “objective” data that includes government policies, legal texts, census data, language documentation and teaching materials to evaluate A’ingae vitality using 18 variables that combine UNESCO’s Language Endangerment and Vitality (LVE) Index, Fishman’s Graded Intergenerational Disruption Scale (GIDS), Lewis and Simons’ Extended GIDS (EGIDS), Landweer’s Indicators of Ethnolinguistic Vitality (IEV), ELDIA’s European Language Vitality Barometer (EuLaViBar) and ELCat’s Language Endangerment Index (LEI), adding one additional factor — land base and geography. To my knowledge, this is the first study that synthesizes the aforementioned EV models and applies them to an Indigenous language. The results of this study indicate that Ecuadorian A’ingae remains relatively vital, with roughly five out of six A’i children and youth being L1 speakers. This implies that even under a worst case scenario, critical endangerment of A’ingae remains two to three generations away. Still, intergenerational transmission, arguably the most critical EV factor, is assessed as “unsafe” because A’ingae has been displaced (by Spanish) in some homes. Proportion of speakers and speakers’ attitudes about their own language are the highest scoring (i.e., most vital) factors as assessed based on UNESCO’s framework, while response to new domains and media, quantity, quality and accessibility of documentation, and government attitudes and policies are the lowest scoring (i.e., least vital). One unique aspect of A’ingae is its high variance in EV between communities, with Dureno displaying high vitality, Sinangoe intermediate-high vitality and Duvuno intermediate-low vitality. This study did not extend to the Ecuadorian A’i communities of Zábalo and Chandia Na'en where the language is believed to remain quite vital. One objective of this study is to signal processes that favor, threaten, or somehow effect the EV of A'ingae in the long term. Applying insights from research on global drivers of language endangerment to critically examine the A’ingae case study, there are a number of factors that emerge as potentially relevant to language shift (A’ingae > Spanish) patterns observed in A’ingae communities. These include: pressure from extractive industries, transition to a cash economy, road access, formal education and intermarriage. On the other hand, the maintenance of A'ingae as a vibrant living language in Ecuador to the present day represents an impressive act of resilience on the part of the A'i, with the following factors thought to be linked to A’ingae vitality: traditional livelihoods, territorial control, strict immigration policies, multi-generational households and identity function. With A’ingae remaining relatively vital in Ecuador, now is an ideal time to undertake language planning efforts. The following are proposed interventions that could help secure A'ingae into the future, though in reality any action that increases A’i sovereignty will support the vitality of the language: speaking A’ingae “from the home” (i.e., maintaining high use of the language in the home domain), teaching through A’ingae in schools, promoting A’ingae in local, regional and national policies, developing A’ingae media and technology, undertaking A’ingae maintenance and revitalization projects and expanding the lands and waters under A’i control. The ALDP and associated researchers are committed to supporting A'i communities with their ongoing language documentation and planning efforts
Mosquito-Borne Disease Prevention: Building Resilient Communities in the US-Mexico Border
No full textBackground: Mosquito-borne diseases are increasingly contributing to epidemic threats, particularly in regions like the US-Mexico border where the Aedes aegypti mosquito is expanding due to climate and socioeconomic changes. Recent outbreaks, such as the 2014 dengue surge in Yuma, Arizona, and Sonora, Mexico, and the first locally acquired dengue case in Maricopa County in 2022, highlight the growing risk beyond border areas. Prevention remains difficult due to limited community awareness and a lack of tailored strategies, underscoring the need for community-engaged interventions. Objectives: Aim 1 assesses understanding the level of understanding and engagement community health workers have had globally with mosquito-borne diseases. Aim 2 analyzes the mosquito borne prevention behaviors and barriers US-Mexico border residents experience. Aim 3 assesses the level of understanding and knowledge gaps of US-Mexico border residents. This dissertation aims to address the barriers and facilitators of mosquito-borne disease prevention and provide recommendations on how to support the development of resources that mobilize communities impacted by mosquito-borne diseases. Methods: First, a scoping review on global engagement of Community Health Workers’ (CHWs) knowledge, attitudes, and practices in administration of mosquito-borne disease health campaigns was conducted. Second, a quantitative analysis of data collected on mosquito-borne disease prevention behaviors of Arizona-Texas residents. Lastly, a qualitative analysis of open-question responses was conducted to assess mosquito borne disease information gaps and needs of border residents. Results: Findings show that CHWs play a vital role in mosquito-borne disease control, especially in underserved communities, but face gaps in disease-specific knowledge and require ongoing training and resources. Responses to the quantitative analysis showcase that border residents have general awareness and knowledge on mosquito disease prevention tactics, but English-speaking respondents are concerned with cost and safety at higher rates as compared to Spanish-speaking respondents. While qualitative responses show that most participants could name a mosquito-borne disease there is significant gaps with accurately understanding how to prevent infection and require timely and specific information to increase levels of awareness. Conclusion: Community insights and empowerment are critical for effective, sustainable mosquito-borne disease prevention. Further qualitative research is needed to dive into the gaps identified in this dissertation. Findings from this dissertation show that there are opportunities to strengthen vector-borne disease programs and overcome barriers identified by involving local trusted community members in decision-making, creating tailored educational resources that lead to mobilization to ultimately achieve reductions in mosquito borne disease risk.Release after 01/13/203
Implementing Screening for Social Determinants of Health
No full textBackground: Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), including food insecurity, housing instability, transportation barriers, utility difficulties, and interpersonal safety concerns, significantly influence health outcomes and health equity. Despite growing recognition of their impact, routine SDOH screening remains inconsistent in Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs). The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) introduced the ASC-22 measure to encourage standardized SDOH screening and referral practices. Integrating SDOH screening in ASCs may enhance early identification of unmet social needs, improve care coordination, and promote equitable health outcomes. Purpose: The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) quality improvement project was to evaluate the implementation of routine SDOH screening using the Core 5 Screening Tool within an ASC in Arizona. The project aimed to enhance staff knowledge and readiness, assess the feasibility of screening, and improve identification and referral processes for patients with health-related social needs (HRSNs). Methods: Guided by Lewin’s Change Theory, this project incorporated staff education, implementation of the Core 5 Screening Tool during pre-operative intake, and follow-up surveys to evaluate outcomes. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected using Qualtrics to assess staff knowledge, confidence, satisfaction, and perceived ease of use. Descriptive statistics analyzed screening rates, staff feedback, and workflow integration.
Results: A total of 121 patients were screened, representing 97% of eligible patients. All screenings were completed successfully, with no positive SDOH findings reported. Thirteen nurses participated in the pre-implementation surveys, and seven participated in the post-implementation surveys. Staff knowledge and confidence significantly improved, and 100% of participants reported the screening tool was easy to use and appropriate for the clinical setting. Conclusions: Implementing routine SDOH screening in ASCs is both feasible and well-accepted by staff. Education increased awareness of social factors influencing health, while the Core 5 Tool proved efficient for workflow integration. Continued refinement, such as developing referral systems and designating care coordinators, will enhance sustainability and ensure patients with unmet social needs receive timely support
Advanced Photography Training for the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner: A Feasibility Study
No full textBackground: Sexual assault is a widespread issue affecting many women both globally and locally. Evidence shows that medical forensic exams conducted by Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) improve the likelihood that survivors will access necessary services. However, gaps in the care provided by SANEs have been identified; in particular, variability and quality of photography during examinations are significant issues that impact the overall quality of care. Purpose: The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project is to improve the quality of photographs taken by SANEs who practice or plan to practice in Arizona, as measured by the Photographic Documentation Integrity and Quality Scoring System (PDIQSS, Fenton, 2022) adapted for this project. Methods: A convenience self-selection sample of SANEs who meet the inclusion criteria will be provided with advanced photography training to improve their knowledge base and the quality of their photographs. Results will be measured using pre- and post-test scores, as well as evaluations of pre- and post-training photographs for quality using the adapted PDIQSS. Participant comfort level with photography will be assessed using a Likert scale, and open-ended questions will be utilized to improve training quality in future iterations. Results will be analyzed using average score comparisons. Results: Four SANEs participated in this project, one novice and three experienced. All participants reported increased competency and recommended incorporating the training into future SANE education. Quantitative outcomes showed improvements in quiz scores, Likert self-assessments, and photo quality scores (PDIQSS), with the novice participant demonstrating the most significant gains. Additionally, adherence to the “rule of four” in injury photo series improved post-training. Conclusions: Data analysis from this project showed improvements across all criteria for all participants, with notable gains in photograph quality and practitioner knowledge among novice SANEs. This suggests training is most effective when implemented during onboarding or initial SANE instruction
APPLYING POST-QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY BASED ON QUASI-CYCLIC CODES TO AERONAUTICAL MOBILE TELEMETRY
No full textThe vulnerability of asymmetric cryptosystems to sufficiently-powerful quantum computers has propelled the rise of post-quantum cryptography (PQC). Several cryptographic algorithms have proven promising candidates for replacing the current algorithms that are susceptible to quantum attacks. Among these candidates are public-key cryptosystems (PKCs) that are based on error correcting codes. PKCs can be wrapped in key encapsulation mechanisms (KEMs), which are recommended for post-quantum applications. We provide necessary background and explore two code-based KEMs based on quasi-cyclic codes: Bit Flipping Key Encapsulation and Hamming Quasi-Cyclic. Both KEMs were submitted to the fourth round of the National Institute of Stan dards and Technology’s PQC standardization process. For each KEM, we discuss the included algorithms, key sizes, and known attacks. We also show how these KEMs can be used in aeronau tical mobile telemetry to distribute symmetric Advanced Encryption Standard keys.International Foundation for TelemeteringProceedings from the International Telemetering Conference are made available by the International Foundation for Telemetering and the University of Arizona Libraries. Visit https://telemetry.org/contact/ if you have questions about items in this collection
UNSUPERVISED CLUSTERING OF ANOMALOUS SAMPLES OF TIME-SERIES DATA USING ANOMALY-DETECTION-CAPABLE STATISTICAL FEATURES
No full textDependable data quality in satellite telemetry is critical for the reliability of space missions. CubeSats such as the University of Kansas’ KUbeSat-1 encounter various anomalies from harsh space environments and hardware degradation. Traditional threshold-based anomaly detection models fail to differentiate error sources within telemetry data. Despite existing methods, there remains a need for a machine learning based model that systematically categorizes telemetry anomalies. This study proposes an unsupervised learning approach that leverages historical telemetry data to recognize characteristic anomaly signatures. The model clusters segments into distinct behavioral groups using a KMeans algorithm, which are assessed through dimensionally reduced visualizations and silhouette scores. This pipeline enhances CubeSat reliability by supporting scalable, telemetry monitoring frameworks that enable smarter design choices and resource allocation for future small satellite missions.International Foundation for TelemeteringProceedings from the International Telemetering Conference are made available by the International Foundation for Telemetering and the University of Arizona Libraries. Visit https://telemetry.org/contact/ if you have questions about items in this collection
International Telemetering Conference Proceedings, Volume 60 (2025)
No full textInternational Foundation for TelemeteringProceedings from the International Telemetering Conference are made available by the International Foundation for Telemetering and the University of Arizona Libraries. Visit https://telemetry.org/contact-us/ if you have questions about items in this collection
Unhoused: Reproductive Health Education for Women and Vulnerable People of Reproductive Age
No full textBackground: Unhoused and vulnerable women face substantial barriers to comprehensive sexual health education, contributing to unintended pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and poor reproductive outcomes. Unstable housing, limited access to care, stigma, and trauma exacerbate these disparities and underscore the need for targeted, evidence-based interventions.Purpose: This quality improvement project evaluated the effectiveness of a single, structured reproductive health education workshop in improving knowledge and confidence/self-efficacy among unhoused and vulnerable women residing at Phoenix Rescue Mission. Methods: Outcomes were assessed using the Reproductive Knowledge & Confidence Survey (RKCS), created for this project by combining items from the Reproductive Health Knowledge Index (RHKI) and the Sexual Communication Self-Efficacy Scale (SCSES). The RKCS included 8 multiple-choice knowledge items (score range 0–8) and 5 Likert confidence items (score range 5–25). Paired-samples t-tests (non-parametric equivalents as needed) compared pre- and post- workshop scores. Results: Across three workshops (N = 29), knowledge increased modestly but did not reach statistical significance. Confidence/self-efficacy improved consistently, with significant gains in Workshop 1 (p = .04) and Workshop 3 (p = .02) and a strong positive trend in Workshop 2 (p = .066). Qualitative feedback was strongly favorable; participants valued clear reproductive health information, condom demonstrations, and a supportive, stigma-free environment, while suggesting more interactive activities and refreshments. Conclusions: This brief, nurse-led, community-based educational intervention meaningfully improved participants’ confidence/self-efficacy and modestly increased knowledge. Confidence gains are clinically significant given their association with protective behaviors (e.g., condom use, timely care-seeking). Findings support the feasibility of low-cost, replicable, nurse-delivered workshops in shelter settings and suggest potential added benefit from multi-session or reinforced formats to strengthen knowledge retention
Theoretical Modeling and Flight Experiments on Glider Dynamics in Non-Uniform Winds
No full textLong endurance flight is challenged by the limited energy resources carried on-board fixed wing aircraft, especially in unmanned aerial vehicles. Nature provides an elegant solution in the form of birds, which have been observed traveling long distances at minimal energy cost. They fly repeating climbs and dives in regions of high wind shears. This is known as dynamic soaring and can lead to extensive increase in flight range or accumulation of kinetic energy.Most existing theoretical and experimental studies of soaring have focused on static soaring, including fully implementing the technique in autonomous flight systems. However, it doesn’t fully harness the available atmospheric energy, for this dynamic soaring needs to be included. Review of existing publications in confirmed that knowledge in this field is still lacking, especially regarding the energetics between an unsteady atmosphere and a glider flying along fundamental paths. Instead, most authors have explored complex optimal path solutions.
The present work partially repeats these results while expanding them to various environments such as Mars and Earth’s high atmosphere, two regions wherein flight similarity is found to be feasible. Then, incremental analysis of a glider exposed to a sudden change in wind magnitude is presented, finding that resulting changes in the orientation of aerodynamic forces can cause energy gains from unsteady atmospheres. Subsequent analysis along fundamental circular paths yielded simplified dynamic soaring maneuvers where kinetic energy can be accumulated, stored, and released in a slingshot like manner. Finally, existing optimal dynamic soaring models are expanded by considering the wind as a random variable. Leading to new stochastic models for optimal dynamic soaring, with solutions and analysis of risk that better represents flight in the naturally unsteady and uncertain wind shear regions
Accessory Dwelling Units and HB 2720 in Arizona
No full textSigned into law on May 21st, 2024, Arizona House Bill 2720 requires that Arizona cities with at least 75,000 residents adopt regulations to legalize construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on residential parcels. The bill aims to provide more flexibility for property owners to develop accessory units, eventually increasing housing options and the number of housing units across the state. This bill provides standard regulations for ADUs in Arizona, which requires the affected cities to update their zoning ordinances to comply with the law. Arizona is following other states that have passed statewide ADU legislation. In addition to Arizona, thirteen states have passed ADU legislation that preempts local ADU regulations, including California, Colorado, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The purpose of this fact sheet is to provide a summary of the HB 2720 requirements and a comparison with preexisting regulations of the Arizona cities impacted by the legislation.This item from the ARCHES collection is made available by the Arizona Research Center for Housing and Economic Solutions at the University of Arizona with support from the University of Arizona Libraries. If you have questions, please visit https://morrisoninstitute.asu.edu/arches