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ENGINEERING INFORMED BY RESEARCH: PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS FOR STORMWATER MANAGEMENT DESIGN AND EDUCATION
No full textThis three-paper dissertation attempts to address research gaps amongst stormwater management design and engineering education research. The common linkage between the three papers was to conduct research that meets academic standards and results in research findings that could be applied by practitioners to develop practical design and educational solutions to practical problems. In addition, each study incorporated a collaborative approach with different communities to assist with developing and conducting studies that result in recommendations for practical applications. The abstract for each paper is included in this section. Chapter 2 Abstract Paper Title: Culturally Relevant Engineering Education (CR-EE): Exploring the Impact on Native American Elementary Students Native Americans were the original engineers in the United States; however, they are now the most underrepresented ethnic group in the engineering profession. Recommendations for increasing their representation start with the ability to deliver culturally relevant K12 engineering education. However, relevant research is limited to theoretical strategies that lack empirical evidence. This paper describes a case study that involves the collaborative development and implementation of culturally relevant engineering educational (CR-EE) curricular activities with a Tribal Community, Tribal Teachers, and University Researchers. The following research questions guided this study: What factors engage students in the activity? How are Native American students’ perceptions of engineering influenced by participating in a culturally relevant engineering design activity? How did the Tribal community and other group’s involvement influence the students’ responses? The case study includes two separate 3-hour events with 122 elementary students from a public school located on a Tribal reservation. Both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods were employed to evaluate questionnaires completed by students after the first event and before and after the second event. The results indicate the students’ were most engaged in learning about cultural traditions from the Tribal community, the “building and testing” portion of the engineering activity, and collaborative learning. After participating in the CR-EE activities students were more likely to perceive engineering as relevant to their Tribe and the degree of Tribal community involvement had a significant influence on the students' responses. Findings from this study provide the preliminary steps in understanding and validating theoretical strategies, which can support approaches for representing CR-EE in K12 classrooms that serve Native American students. Chapter 3 Abstract Paper Title: Identifying the Essential Properties of Biochar for Stormwater Treatment The goal of this research was to provide a comprehensive evaluation of two different biochars for providing treatment of stormwater pollutants and to develop recommendations for the field application of a bioretention soil media (BSM) amended with biochar (BSM-Biochar mix). The pollutants include total suspended solids (TSS), dissolved Copper (Cu) and Zinc (Zn), Total Phosphorus (TP), Total Nitrogen (TN), Ammonia (NH3), and Nitrate-Nitrite (NO3-NO2). These goals were achieved by conducting an extensive literature search to identify a list of proposed Essential Properties. Specifically, those biochar physiochemical properties that indicate if a biochar is suitable for stormwater applications and may be useful in stormwater treatment design. Two biochars were selected for this study, one derived from wood (W) and the other from Kentucky blue grass feedstocks (KB), because they provide a range of Essential Properties to evaluate and compare. A laboratory study was conducted to evaluate the treatment performance of the biochars, which included: 1) jar testing and 2) flow through column testing. The results from the laboratory testing indicate: both biochars reduced TSS, Zn and Pb by >90%; the Cu removal efficiency was significantly higher for the W biochar (88% to 96%) compared to the KB biochar (47% to 78%); the NH3 removal efficiency (56% to 77%) was statistically insignificant between the biochars; the NO3-NO2 effluent concentration was only significantly higher than the influent for the columns with a larger quantity of biochar in which the NO3-NO2 was reduced by 3% to 12%; and the W biochar reduced (24.2%) significantly more TN compared to the KB biochar (14%). Neither biochar reduced TP. The KB biochar leached TP (-150% to -341%) compared to the W biochar in which the effluent concentration was statistically insignificant compared to the influent concentration. The results from this study may have been influenced by the stormwater influent hardness concentration (277 mg/L total and 227 mg/L dissolved) as well as hydrophobic characteristics observed by the biochars. Results from the laboratory testing were used to refine the list of Essential Properties, which include organic carbon, hydrogen to organic carbon ratio, cation exchange capacity, total surface area, calcium, pH, phosphorus, and nitrogen. Chapter 4 Abstract Paper Title: Development a Specification for Bioretention Soil Media Amended with Biochar for Stormwater Treatment The goal of this research was to develop a specification for a bioretention soil media (BSM) amended with biochar (BSM-Biochar) that provides treatment of regional pollutants of concern (POC) and could be used by practitioners to design and construct bioretention best management practices (BMPs) in the field. The POCs evaluated in this study include total suspended solids (TSS), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN), ammonia (NH3), and nitrate-nitrite (NO3-NO2). This study is an extension of the previous study, where the key finding from the study detailed in Chapter 3 were combined with frequent citations from bioretention literature, and the Washington State Department of Ecology requirements for custom BSM to develop a draft BSM-Biochar specification. The two biochars selected for this study were developed from wood (W) and Kentucky blue grass (KB) source materials. A flow through column testing method was used to evaluate the treatment performance of the draft specifications using different BSM-Biochar mixes. The evaluation consisted of comparing the change in pollutant concentrations between influent and effluent samples as well as comparing changes in the pollutant concentrations in the BSM-Biochar mix from the top, middle, and base layer of the columns. The experimental design consisted of creating conditions that are representative of those expected in the field including using a natural stormwater solution to simulate rainfall conditions that are expected in eastern Washington where the study was conducted. The results from the water quality testing indicate: a reduction in TSS, Zn and Pb by >96% in all BSM-Biochar mixes; a reduction of Cu and NH3 concentration by >86%; NO3-NO2 leached from all the columns ranging from -53% to -48% and -48% to -33% for the columns that contained the KB and W biochars respectively. The columns that contained only the W biochar reduced TP concentrations by 21% to 26% compared the columns that contained only the KB biochar which leached TP by -77% to -110%. The trend in the treatment performances indicate that TP leaching from the KB columns declines over time while the efficacy of the W columns to reduce TP also declines over time. Results from the BSM-Biochar testing indicate that Ca and Mg cations are preferentially sorbed by the W biochar whereas Na cations are preferentially sorbed by the KB biochar. Overall, the majority of the heavy metals were retained in the top 6-inches of the BSM-Biochar mixes that contained both the W and KB biochar. The results of the column testing evaluation were used to confirm and refine the proposed specification and develop recommendations for field applications. A proposed BSM-Biochar specification is included in the Appendix.doctoral, Ph.D., Civil Engineering -- University of Idaho - College of Graduate Studies, 2018-0
Effect of Sperm Insemination Dose on Fertility and Use of in vitro Sperm Analyses to Explain Fertility Differences of Angus Sires in Brazilian Beef Cattle
No full textThe objectives of the first study were, primarily, to determine if beef bull fertility varied by number of sperm inseminated and, secondarily, to characterize the potential impact of random variation through the use of two identical sperm per dose treatments, which differed only by straw color. In the second (in vitro) study, the primary objective was to identify sperm characteristics associated with fertility differences between bulls from the field fertility trial. A secondary objective was to investigate the pattern and variability of in vitro sperm characteristics using principal component analysis. In the first study, although fertility differences between bulls were detected, fertility following timed artificial insemination with 10, 20, 20 or 40 × 106 sperm per dose resulted in a similar proportion of cows pregnant per timed artificial insemination (P/TAI) at first service in synchronized beef cattle. Although the overall P/TAI between the two control groups (20 × 106 sperm per dose) were not different, the numerical variation within bull ranged from 0.5 to 4.9 percentage points, providing evidence that variation in reproductive field trials should not be ignored. In the second study, morphologic evaluation, computer-assisted sperm analysis and flow cytometry were not able to explain the difference in field fertility between bulls. Principal component analysis simplified the complexity of data from computer-assisted sperm analysis and flow cytometry and allowed for the identification of key sperm characteristic variables. The use of principal component analysis should be investigated further, as it allows for the grouping and identification of key sperm characteristics, and provides a visual aspect to understanding variability.masters, M.S., Animal and Veterinary Science -- University of Idaho - College of Graduate Studies, 2018-0
Chatcolab 2018 - Traditions & Transitions: It's About Time
No full textCamp Packet for Chatcolab Northwest Leadership lab that contains program planning, activities, stories, and menus/recipes. Only bound materials have been scanned; this digital collection does not contain any associated ephemera from the donors notebook
Design of a Separation Process for Recycling Tritium and Helium-3 Mixed Gas
No full textTritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, and its decay product, helium-3, have enormous market value. Both gases are used in multiple applications which require these gases to be periodically replaced. Often, tritium-containing mixed gases are treated as nuclear waste when replaced rather than recycled, requiring the costly production of new gas. This work investigates an economical, scalable approach to recycling a gas stream containing mixed tritium/helium-3. Separation methods are discussed generally, followed by an examination of specific methods effective for separating tritium. An apparatus and process for conducting this separation is detailed, and the results of testing that apparatus are presented. A discussion of how to avoid the problems encountered using the apparatus leads to an improved, new separation system design. Simulation shows that this new system will be capable of economical, scalable recycling of tritium and helium-3.masters, M.S., Nuclear Engineering -- University of Idaho - College of Graduate Studies, 2018-1
The Role of Saliva and Hydrocolloids in Texture Perception of Semisolid Foods: Using Rheological, Tribological and Sensory Evaluation Techniques
No full textThe most common way to optimize the texture attributes of semisolid foods is to use hydrocolloids as texture modifiers. However, addition of hydrocolloids to a food system may cause adverse texture effects. These unpleasant effects can be avoided by selecting the right type and concentration of hydrocolloid for the food system. Rheometry and tribometry are popular techniques that can be beneficial in characterizing texture-related attributes. However, prediction of texture attributes by instrumental testing has its own restrictions, e.g. the lack of saliva effects on semisolid food. As a result, addition of saliva to semisolid foods during instrumental testing has been used for better clarification of oral texture perception. Combining different techniques for mimicking oral processing can frame a more realistic picture of how hydrocolloids and saliva application may affect texture perception of semisolid foods. Therefore, the objectives of this work were to 1) determine the structural, rheological, tribological, and sensory properties of semisolid foods that incorporated hydrocolloids as texture modifiers, 2) evaluate the effect of human whole saliva (HWS) on these properties, and 3) determine correlations among the different properties. For this project, twenty-four acid milk gels were used as a model system. Additionally, formulations for twelve yogurts were selected as a representative sample of the acid milk gel formulations. Acid milk gels and yogurts were prepared by mixing skim milk with different milkfat contents and dry powders including skim milk powder (SMP), sweet whey protein isolate (WPI), and non-based protein hydrocolloids (locust bean gum, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), potato starch, and corn starch). In addition to providing functional properties, SMP and WPI were also used to adjust protein and solids non-fat. For all samples, shear rate, strain, and frequency sweeps were carried out at 8˚C and 25˚C to evaluate rheological behaviors. Tribometry was also performed at 25˚C to measure frictional behaviors. All samples were tested with and without HWS (1:6 ratio of HWS: sample). Sensory evaluation was performed using descriptive analysis. Subsequently, confocal imaging was used to determine sample microstructural differences for different formulations and upon addition of water and HWS. ANOVA, principal component analysis (PCA), and partial least squares (PLS) were used to analyze the results. Overall, the viscosity, viscoelastic, frictional, microstructural, and sensory profiles of the formulations were significantly different for different formulations and with addition of HWS. Combinations of hydrocolloids in yogurts, including CMC and PS individually and all hydrocolloids together, were correlated with desirable textural attributes i.e. viscosity, firmness, smoothness, and spoon viscosity. These samples also showed negative correlations with grittiness, chalkiness, astringency, and graininess. These correlations also were found in acid milk gels made with all hydrocolloids, as well as samples including CMC individually or in combination with a gum (e.g. PS) or with WPI. Acid milk gel and yogurt formulas made with either CMC alone or with all hydrocolloids showed similar rheological, tribological, and microstructural properties. Samples with PS had the most drastic structural changes after addition of HWS. Rheological, tribological, and sensory properties showed significant correlations for multiple parameters. Mouthfeel attributes from sensory results correlated well with acid milk gel friction behaviors, viscoelastic parameters, and viscosity parameters. Undesirable sensory attributes, i.e. grittiness, graininess, chalkiness, and astringency, were positively correlated with friction coefficients within sliding speeds of 15-30 mm/s and negatively correlated with positive sensory attributes such as smoothness, firmness, and viscosity related attributes. Friction coefficient at 30 mm/s was correlated with all textural attributes except spoon lumpiness. G* was positively correlated with viscosity and friction coefficients; c was negatively correlated with friction coefficients. Thus, friction increased with increased resistance to permanent deformation and less stiff microstructure. The results of this work highlighted the beneficial role of rheological and tribological techniques in studying texture perception of semisolid foods. Therefore, they can be used to assist in design of reduced or non-fat semisolid foods with an acceptable texture to provide healthier options to meet consumer demands.doctoral, Ph.D., Food Science -- University of Idaho - College of Graduate Studies, 2018-1
Authorization to Submit Learning Through Work and Play: Using Virtual Design Discovery to Facilitate Virtual Environments as a Medium for Active Learning Through Design
No full textThere is a divide between how virtual environments are designed and utilized between different academia and industries. This divide is most prevalent when looking at the comparisons between data visualization and video games. Virtual design discovery could become a means to bridge this gap and gives us an opportunity to explore something new. VDD could help us create a new social design process and environment, update outdated teaching mediums, minimize the misuse of new technologies, and prevent misrepresentation of data sets. This paper will look at how simplification and access to developing virtual environments could give way to many opportunities and improvements for current design practices. Virtual design discovery can be used as a medium to facilitate better social design practices and broaden learning opportunities as well. These opportunities stem from the inclusion of access to larger social groups, online communities, incorporation of active learning, and virtual environmental design.masters, M.S., Architecture -- University of Idaho - College of Graduate Studies, 2018-0
A Chronostratigraphic Assessment of the Pronghorn Member of the Bakken Petroleum System
No full textChronostratigraphic definition of the Pronghorn Member of the Bakken Petroleum System facilitates correlation both within the Williston Basin and to coeval formations in adjacent basins. Palynological analysis of the Pronghorn Member reveals parasequences, depositional environments, and relative age. The Pronghorn Member consists of a discrete depositional sequence, variably preserved throughout the basin although locally complete. Three palynofacies were established within the Pronghorn Member, corresponding to an open marine Lowstand Systems Tract, an intermediate marine Transgressive Systems Tract to Highstand Systems Tract, and a restricted marine Falling Stage Systems Tract. This palynological assemblage corresponds to the palynozone VCo. Pronghorn Member microfossil and macrofossil assemblages are similar to those of the Trident Member of the Three Forks Formation in Western Montana and suggest synchronous deposition of the two formations. Considering that the Bakken Formation occurs only in the subsurface, establishing an outcropping analog improves reservoir characterization.masters, M.S., Geology -- University of Idaho - College of Graduate Studies, 2018-0