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Title: Capital Design: The Role of Design in Institutional Capital Allocation
Creator: Ostapchuk, Jordan
Date: 2024
Description: There is a paradox within the $100 trillion institutional investment industry: the more choices an institutional investor has, the more...
Show moreThere is a paradox within the $100 trillion institutional investment industry: the more choices an institutional investor has, the more challenging it becomes to make investment decisions. This paradox is significant because capital is one of the most transformational elements of the 21st century, driven by financialization, universal ownership, and increasing systemic risks. The direction of capital flows significantly influences the approach to addressing climate change, aging populations, and the transition to sustainable energy, in addition to supporting the essential physical and social infrastructure supported by institutional capital. This research proposes and substantiates a novel hypothesis: design can significantly influence capital allocation in institutional investment contexts. Through an institutional case study, expert interviews, workshops with master’s level design students, and systems-informed reflective practice, this research identifies asset classes as an important and changeable lens through which institutions engage with the future. It explores how these asset classes shape choices in the capital allocation process and identifies eight design capabilities particularly suited for institutional investment contexts. In doing so, it introduces a framework termed Capital Design. This framework illustrates how design can influence institutional capital allocation by integrating these design capabilities with investment tools through informational lenses within a choice/knowledge map. As a result, Capital Design offers an innovative approach for investors and investees to reorient toward emergent asset categories that directly meet the most urgent societal needs.
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Title: Utilizing Image Processing in Evaluation of Fibroblast Stimulation for Collagen Remodeling
Creator: Yoon, Shin Hae
Date: 2023
Description: This research delves into the realm of image processing as a pivotal component in the evaluation of fibroblast stimulation for collagen...
Show moreThis research delves into the realm of image processing as a pivotal component in the evaluation of fibroblast stimulation for collagen remodeling. The study focuses on unraveling the intricate synergy between electrospun silk fibroin-carbon nanotube (SF-CNT) fibers and electrical stimulation, working in harmony to enhance tissue regeneration. Building upon our previous work, we successfully engineered SF-CNT fibers through the electrospinning process, yielding highly aligned structures reminiscent of natural extracellular matrix proteins. These fibers were fortified with water stability through post-treatment with ethanol vapor, while subtle additions of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) significantly improved fiber alignment, strength, and conductivity without compromising biocompatibility. This innovative platform served as a cell culture matrix for fibroblasts harvested from pelvic organ prolapse (POP) patients, facilitating electrical stimulation that triggered a substantial increase in collagen production. In this study, we harnessed the power of various image-processing software tools, including ImageJ and Python, to analyze immunostained images of fibroblasts obtained from POP patients. Under carefully tailored electrical stimulation conditions, the stimulated cells exhibited an astonishing up to 11.97-fold increase in alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression, unequivocally signifying the successful activation of myofibroblasts. Additionally, in an animal model employing LOX-knockout mice to mimic collagen disorders associated with POP, the application of optimized electrical stimulation conditions for patient 003 led to a remarkable surge in collagen production and structural enhancement, underlining the potential of electrical stimulation in expediting tissue remodeling. Intriguingly, fibroblasts from patient 005 and patient 006 exhibited a distinct response, shedding light on the influence of POP severity on cellular behavior. This study firmly reinforces the imperative of personalized therapeutic approaches, emphasizing the need to customize treatment strategies to align with individual patient characteristics through innovative biological image analysis techniques.
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Title: Empowering Visually Impaired Individuals With Holistic Assistance Using Real-Time Spatial Awareness System
Creator: Yu, Xinrui
Date: 2024
Description: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into daily life opens unprecedented avenues for enhancing the experiences of visually impaired...
Show moreThe integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into daily life opens unprecedented avenues for enhancing the experiences of visually impaired individuals, offering them greater autonomy and quality of life. This thesis introduces a Visually Impaired Spatial Awareness (VISA) system designed to assist visually impaired individuals holistically through a structured approach. At the foundational level, the VISA system incorporates several key technologies to interpret the surroundings and assist in basic navigation tasks. It utilizes Augmented Reality (AR) markers to facilitate recognition of places and aid in navigation, employs neural network models for advanced object detection and tracking, and leverages depth information for accurate object localization. Progressing to the intermediate level, the VISA system integrates the data obtained from object detection and depth sensing to assist in more complex navigational tasks such as obstacle avoidance and pathfinding toward a desired destination. At the advanced level, the VISA system synthesizes the capabilities developed at the foundational and intermediate levels to enhance the spatial awareness of visually impaired users, allowing them to undertake complex tasks, such as navigating complex environments and locating specific items. The VISA system also emphasizes efficient human-machine interaction, incorporating text-to-speech and speech-to-text technologies to facilitate natural and intuitive communication between the user and the system. The VISA system's performance was evaluated in different environments simulating real-world scenarios. The experimental results show that the user can interact with our system intuitively with minimal effort, and affirm that the VISA system can effectively assist the visually impaired user in locating and reaching for objects, navigating indoors, identifying merchandise, and recognizing both handwritten and printed texts.
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Title: Two Essays on Mergers and Acquisitions
Creator: Xu, Yang
Date: 2024
Description: This dissertation is composed of two self-contained chapters that both relate to mergers and acquisitions (M&A). In the first essay, we...
Show moreThis dissertation is composed of two self-contained chapters that both relate to mergers and acquisitions (M&A). In the first essay, we examine the Delaware (DE) reincorporation effect on firms’ post-IPO behaviors on mergers and acquisitions. We find that firms’ DE reincorporation decisions enhance the likelihood of engaging in M&A as targets. However, as a tradeoff, DE reincorporated firms get lower takeover valuations compared to stay-at-home-state firms, and the acquisition of reincorporated firms is less likely to be successful. Our second essay aims to explore the role of the options market in price discovery for M&A. We find that the predictive power of the changes in implied volatility of the target firm stock for the takeover outcome is statistically and economically significant. The risk arbitrage portfolios incorporating filters derived from the options on stocks of the target firms generate annualized risk-adjusted abnormal returns between 2.6% and 5%, depending on the portfolio weighting method, the threshold of filters for the implied volatility change, and the asset pricing models applied for abnormal returns. The results are robust to different empirical setups and are not explained by traditional factors.
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Title: Effect of organic acid treatment in reducing Salmonella on six types of sprout seeds
Creator: Yang, Dachuan
Date: 2023
Description: Fresh sprouts present a special food safety concern as their growing conditions also favor the growth of pathogens such as Salmonella....
Show moreFresh sprouts present a special food safety concern as their growing conditions also favor the growth of pathogens such as Salmonella. Contamination in sprouts often originates from the seeds used for sprouting. The Produce Safety Rule requires that seeds used to grow sprouts be treated to reduce pathogens. The treatments may be applied by sprout growers or by seed suppliers. Although 20,000 ppm calcium hypochlorite is the most used seed treatment method, the high chlorine level can be hazardous to workers and the environment. Alternative seed treatment methods that are safe and environmentally friendly are needed. In addition, a post-treatment drying step is needed when seed suppliers are using chemical seed treatment methods. This study evaluated the efficacy of an organic acid solution for reducing Salmonella on six types of seeds (alfalfa, clover, radish, mung bean, onion, and broccoli). The impact of treatment on seed germination and sprout yield was also examined. Ten grams of seeds inoculated with a five-serotype cocktail of Salmonella were pre-rinsed with 40 ml of water twice and treated with 75.7 ml of the organic acid solution for 1 hour. The treated seeds were either not rinsed or rinsed with 40 ml of water twice before being dried in the biological safety cabinet for 24 hours. The Salmonella level, germination percentage, and sprout yield of seeds treated with water, seeds treated with the organic acid solution, seeds treated with organic acid, dried, and rinsed, and seeds treated with organic acids, dried, and not rinsed were compared. Salmonella reductions that could be achieved with this organic acid solution treatment were less than 0.5 log CFU/g without drying, 0.6-2.0 log CFU/g with drying and rinse, or 1.6-2.9 log CFU/g with drying and no rinse. Drying significantly enhanced the treatment efficacy (p < 0.05 ) on alfalfa, radish, mung bean, and onion seeds. If seeds were not rinsed after treatment, the log reductions achieved on mung bean and onion seeds were significantly higher (p < 0.05). If seeds were treated and rinsed, the germination rates of six types of seeds were not affected (p > 0.05) regardless of whether the seeds were dried or not. All treatments significantly decreased the sprout yield of clover seeds by 13% (p < 0.05 ). If seeds were not rinsed after treatment, the germination rates of clover and broccoli seeds were reduced by 7 and 9%, respectively, and the sprout yield of alfalfa seeds was reduced by 35%. Overall, the organic acid solution was ineffective when compared with 20,000 ppm calcium hypochlorite in reducing Salmonella on sprout seeds, although the drying step after treatment could improve the treatment efficacy.
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Title: Translational Research to Advance Remediation and Label-Free Detection
Creator: Rathnayake, Rathnayake A. Chathurika
Date: 2024
Description: Translational research acts as a vital link between fundamental scientific discoveries and their real-world applications, especially within...
Show moreTranslational research acts as a vital link between fundamental scientific discoveries and their real-world applications, especially within biotechnology and medical diagnostics. This interdisciplinary approach integrates knowledge from biology, chemistry, engineering, and medicine to create inventive solutions for urgent health challenges. Tissue remediation, essential in modern healthcare, seeks to restore the function and vitality of damaged tissues by imitating natural regenerative processes and employing biomaterials and scaffolds. Effective collaboration among academia, industry, and healthcare providers is essential for translating tissue remediation strategies into patient care, offering hope to those with injuries and chronic diseases.One project focuses on crafting biocompatible scaffolds resembling the body's extracellular matrix to facilitate tissue regeneration. This study focuses on enhancing collagen production, particularly for patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP), using a combination of silk fibers functionalized with carbon nanotubes (SF-CNT) and electrical stimulation (ES). Key findings include superior alignment of SF-CNT fibers compared to pure silk fibers, with SF-CNT 0.1% showing optimal alignment. Higher CNT concentrations led to distorted fibers. SF-CNT 0.1% fibers displayed improved properties and minimal cytotoxicity, while ES increased collagen production, especially with SF-CNT 0.1% fibers. Customized ES conditions based on patient characteristics and tissue locations were crucial for optimal collagen enhancement. In vivo studies showed increased collagen content and improved fiber alignment with ES-treated fibroblast cells. Personalized ES conditions are essential for optimizing collagen enhancement, considering individual patient attributes and tissue-specific factors. The combination of SF-CNT fibers and ES offers promise for improving collagen production, particularly for POP patients. The study highlights the importance of personalized treatment strategies and tissue-specific considerations to maximize the effectiveness of electrical stimulation for collagen enhancement. Another promising avenue is the shift toward label-free detection methods in medical diagnostics, particularly for conditions like periodontitis. This project introduces an innovative method for rapid, label-free detection of bacterial species linked to periodontitis using Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) combined with machine learning. Key advancements include optimizing saliva processing techniques, and establishing a reliable RT-qPCR method. SERS is utilized for bacterial detection with high accuracy, enhanced by incorporating a cell-free saliva matrix. These methods enable non-invasive, real-time characterization of biomolecular interactions and disease biomarkers, streamlining diagnostic processes and improving accessibility by eliminating the need for labeling agents. In the pursuit of translational research, collaboration and innovation are paramount. By translating scientific insights into practical solutions, researchers endeavor to advance tissue remediation and label-free detection, thereby contributing to a more sustainable, healthier, and safer future for all.
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Title: Monitoring Safety of Railway Tank Cars (Fall 1999) IPRO 013
Creator: Gupta, Kapil, Zukauskas, Elena, Patel, Jayesh, Lin, Shan
Date: 1999, 1999-12
Description: Railroad tank cars are efficient vehicles for the transport of large quantities of liquid commodities in North America. These commodities...
Show moreRailroad tank cars are efficient vehicles for the transport of large quantities of liquid commodities in North America. These commodities include foodstuffs as well as a wide range of chemicals use in the process industries. Transport Canada and the U.S. Department of Transportation collaborate in the formulation of rules and regulations for the transportation of hazardous commodities. While the incidence of non-accident release (NARs) is very small there is nevertheless a further collaborative effort by shippers and car owners alike to reduce the incidence of NARs to zero. One approach in reducing NARs is to develop a means to identify small leaks immediately, while the vehicle is in transit. The IPRO team will identify and evaluate methods for detecting small leaks using car mounted sensors and alerting the shipper of the leak automatically form remote locations. This includes consideration of how to mount sensors and telemetry devices, log data, predict unacceptable trends and incidents, and report them in a timely, reliable and cost-effective fashion. The technologies involved in the development of such a system would include characterization of target chemicals, sensors and date transmission, mounting to the tank car, evaluation of the econ0omic viability of the concepts, and identification of potential legal implications.
Sponsorship: Union Tank Car Company
Project Plan for IPRO 013: Monitoring Safety of Railway Tank Cars for the Fall 1999 semester
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Title: Web Portal that Creates about Engineering Careers for High School Students, Teachers and Counselors (Spring 2002) IPRO 309: Web_Portal_that_Creates_Awareness_about_Engineering_Careers_for_High_School_Students, Teachers_and_Counselors_IPRO309_Spring2002_Final_Presentation
Creator: Ilagan, Ryan, Lomeli, Victor, Oey, Mulyadi, Mardia, Aditya, Howard, Allan, Raic, Gordan, Sawhney, Vaibhav, Fan, Ping, Ostapczuk, Alex
Date: 2002, 2002-05
Description: There is a continuing need to provide information and motivational materials to high school students to interest them in engineering. These...
Show moreThere is a continuing need to provide information and motivational materials to high school students to interest them in engineering. These students would also benefit by learning about the various educational programs offered to help them meet their goals. Finally, information on the application process, especially the varying student aid packages from universities, government and industry would benefit high school students. There may be other services that would interest and benefit high school students that this project team could identify. There is also a wide variety of information already available to high school students and guidance counselors from individual universities as well as commercial and government organizations, associations and various publications that rank institutions. The sheer number of sources and volume of information about colleges and careers can be quite daunting to navigate. Everyone who has been through this process knows how frustrating and stressful it can be for students, parents and counselors in not having confidence that the best information was identified in a timely way to consider alternatives and make intelligent decisions. It is envisioned that this project would seek information from IIT engineering freshmen as well as high school students and counselors about current practices and trends in how the web and other resources are used in this process. Based on survey data, the project team will develop a web site or portal that can organize and provide information and services regarded as most valuable to high school students and counselors in their decision making process -- and do so in an integrated way, with appropriate planning and selection tools to support the process. It is envisioned that this could ultimately become part of a seamless service from the earliest consideration of career direction and college selection by high school students, through to specific career and employer selection by college students, and finally extending to support for alumni as they maintain their competitive edge in their professional practice. This project is a continuation of the Fall IPRO project. The team will continue to work closely with the admissions office to learn about university practices at IIT and elsewhere that relate to this web-based services concept
Project Plan for IPRO 309: Web Portal that Creates about Engineering Careers for High School Students, Teachers and Counselors for the Spring 2002 semester
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Title: Monitoring Safety of Railway Tank Cars (Fall 1999) IPRO 013: Monitoring Safety of Railway Tank Cars IPRO013 Fall1999 Final Presentation
Creator: Gupta, Kapil, Zukauskas, Elena, Patel, Jayesh, Lin, Shan
Date: 1999, 1999-12
Description: Railroad tank cars are efficient vehicles for the transport of large quantities of liquid commodities in North America. These commodities...
Show moreRailroad tank cars are efficient vehicles for the transport of large quantities of liquid commodities in North America. These commodities include foodstuffs as well as a wide range of chemicals use in the process industries. Transport Canada and the U.S. Department of Transportation collaborate in the formulation of rules and regulations for the transportation of hazardous commodities. While the incidence of non-accident release (NARs) is very small there is nevertheless a further collaborative effort by shippers and car owners alike to reduce the incidence of NARs to zero. One approach in reducing NARs is to develop a means to identify small leaks immediately, while the vehicle is in transit. The IPRO team will identify and evaluate methods for detecting small leaks using car mounted sensors and alerting the shipper of the leak automatically form remote locations. This includes consideration of how to mount sensors and telemetry devices, log data, predict unacceptable trends and incidents, and report them in a timely, reliable and cost-effective fashion. The technologies involved in the development of such a system would include characterization of target chemicals, sensors and date transmission, mounting to the tank car, evaluation of the econ0omic viability of the concepts, and identification of potential legal implications.
Sponsorship: Union Tank Car Company
Project Plan for IPRO 013: Monitoring Safety of Railway Tank Cars for the Fall 1999 semester
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Title: Monitoring Safety of Railway Tank Cars (Fall 1999) IPRO 013: Monitoring Safety of Railway Tank Cars IPRO013 Fall1999 Final Report
Creator: Gupta, Kapil, Zukauskas, Elena, Patel, Jayesh, Lin, Shan
Date: 1999, 1999-12
Description: Railroad tank cars are efficient vehicles for the transport of large quantities of liquid commodities in North America. These commodities...
Show moreRailroad tank cars are efficient vehicles for the transport of large quantities of liquid commodities in North America. These commodities include foodstuffs as well as a wide range of chemicals use in the process industries. Transport Canada and the U.S. Department of Transportation collaborate in the formulation of rules and regulations for the transportation of hazardous commodities. While the incidence of non-accident release (NARs) is very small there is nevertheless a further collaborative effort by shippers and car owners alike to reduce the incidence of NARs to zero. One approach in reducing NARs is to develop a means to identify small leaks immediately, while the vehicle is in transit. The IPRO team will identify and evaluate methods for detecting small leaks using car mounted sensors and alerting the shipper of the leak automatically form remote locations. This includes consideration of how to mount sensors and telemetry devices, log data, predict unacceptable trends and incidents, and report them in a timely, reliable and cost-effective fashion. The technologies involved in the development of such a system would include characterization of target chemicals, sensors and date transmission, mounting to the tank car, evaluation of the econ0omic viability of the concepts, and identification of potential legal implications.
Sponsorship: Union Tank Car Company
Project Plan for IPRO 013: Monitoring Safety of Railway Tank Cars for the Fall 1999 semester
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Title: re|build
Creator: Clithero, Katherine
Date: 2012-05-02, 2012-05
Description: On May 22, 2011, Joplin, Missouri was struck by a powerful EF-5 tornado. The nearly one-mile wide tornado cut a path almost 22 miles in length...
Show moreOn May 22, 2011, Joplin, Missouri was struck by a powerful EF-5 tornado. The nearly one-mile wide tornado cut a path almost 22 miles in length, destroying over 7,000 homes and about 2,000 other structures. Among the buildings completely destroyed during the storm was Joplin High School. The rebuilding of the school is an important step for the community to heal and grow from the devastation. The intent of the design is to improve the quality of education by incorporating collaborative learning spaces, integrating technology and promoting environmental responsibility.
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Title: Monitoring Safety of Railway Tank Cars (Fall 1999) IPRO 013
Creator: Gupta, Kapil, Zukauskas, Elena, Patel, Jayesh, Lin, Shan
Date: 1999, 1999-12
Description: Railroad tank cars are efficient vehicles for the transport of large quantities of liquid commodities in North America. These commodities...
Show moreRailroad tank cars are efficient vehicles for the transport of large quantities of liquid commodities in North America. These commodities include foodstuffs as well as a wide range of chemicals use in the process industries. Transport Canada and the U.S. Department of Transportation collaborate in the formulation of rules and regulations for the transportation of hazardous commodities. While the incidence of non-accident release (NARs) is very small there is nevertheless a further collaborative effort by shippers and car owners alike to reduce the incidence of NARs to zero. One approach in reducing NARs is to develop a means to identify small leaks immediately, while the vehicle is in transit. The IPRO team will identify and evaluate methods for detecting small leaks using car mounted sensors and alerting the shipper of the leak automatically form remote locations. This includes consideration of how to mount sensors and telemetry devices, log data, predict unacceptable trends and incidents, and report them in a timely, reliable and cost-effective fashion. The technologies involved in the development of such a system would include characterization of target chemicals, sensors and date transmission, mounting to the tank car, evaluation of the econ0omic viability of the concepts, and identification of potential legal implications.
Sponsorship: Union Tank Car Company
Project Plan for IPRO 013: Monitoring Safety of Railway Tank Cars for the Fall 1999 semester
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Title: PRFA-LIKE TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR, LMO0753, CONTRIBUTES TO VIRULENCE, L-RHAMNOSE UTILIZATION, AND PERSISTENCE OF LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES HUMAN FOODBORNE OUTBREAK LINEAGES
Creator: Salazar, Joelle Krieger
Date: 2013, 2013-12
Description: Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne bacterial pathogen and the causative agent of a human and animal disease, listeriosis. Among the three...
Show moreListeria monocytogenes is a foodborne bacterial pathogen and the causative agent of a human and animal disease, listeriosis. Among the three major genetic lineages of L. monocytogenes (i.e. LI, LII, and LIII), LI and LII are predominantly associated with foodborne listeriosis outbreaks, whereas LIII is rarely implicated in human infections. In a previous study, we identified a Crp/Fnr family transcription factor lmo0753 that was highly specific to outbreak-associated LI and LII but absent from LIII. Lmo0753 shares two conserved functional domains including a DNA-binding domain with the well-characterized master virulence regulator PrfA in L. monocytogenes. In this study, lmo0753 deletion and complementation mutants were constructed in two fully sequenced L. monocytogenes LII strains 10403S and EGDe, and compared virulence-associated mechanisms of flagellar motility, phospholipase C production, hemolysis, and intracellular growth of the mutants and their respective wild types. Persistence-associated mechanisms of growth, biofilm production, attachment and soil survival were also assayed. Results suggested that lmo0753 plays a role in some virulence- and persistence-associated mechanisms in both EGDe and 10403S. More importantly, it was found that deletion of lmo0753 led to the loss of L-rhamnose utilization in EGDe but not in 10403S. Transcriptomic comparison of the EGDe lmo0753 deletion mutant and the wild type incubated in Phenol-red medium containing L-rhamnose as the sole carbon source revealed 126 (4.5%) and 546 (19.5%) out of 2,798 genes in the EGDe genome that were up- and down-regulated for more than 2-fold, respectively. Genes involved in biotin biosynthesis, general stress response and rhamnose metabolism were shown to be differentially regulated by Lmo0753. Findings from this study may partially explain why xvi LIII of L. monocytogenes is underrepresented in the environment and rarely associated with human listeriosis outbreaks due to the inability of rhamnose utilization.
PH.D in Biology, December 2013
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Title: BAX EXON 2 CONTAINS A CRITICAL ACCEPTOR SITE FOR ALTERNATIVE SPLICING OF THE BAXΔ2 ISOFORM BY SAMUEL KISSINGER Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for
Creator: Kissinger, Samuel
Date: 2013-04-17, 2013-05
Description: Previous studies have revealed that BAXΔ2, an alternatively spliced form of BAX with a microsatellite mutation (G8 to G7) on BAX exon 3, is a...
Show morePrevious studies have revealed that BAXΔ2, an alternatively spliced form of BAX with a microsatellite mutation (G8 to G7) on BAX exon 3, is a more potent inducer of cell death and a potential means of treatment for cancers with microsatellite instability (MSI). To define the critical splicing points for the splicing of the BAXΔ2 isoform, BAX mini-gene constructs with GFP reporter genes were used for site directed mutagenesis based disruption of predicted critical splicing points. The mutant constructs were transfected into mammalian cells, and expression of BAX-GFP fusion proteins were examined by both fluorescence microscopy and Western blot analysis. Our results indicate that the BAX exon 2 A667T mutation could completely abolish generation of the BAXΔ2 isoform. These results suggest that the acceptor site AG in BAX exon 2 position 667 is critical for alternative splicing to the BAXΔ2 isoform in microsatellite unstable BAX G7 tumor cells.
M.S. in Biology, May 2013
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Title: PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL COMMUNICATIONS CONTRIBUTIONS TO STUDENT AFFAIRS WRITING COMPETENCIES
Creator: Schaefer, Kelly
Date: 2016, 2016-05
Description: Student affairs practitioners in mid-level positions write in the workplace daily, but in many cases they do not formally or intentionally...
Show moreStudent affairs practitioners in mid-level positions write in the workplace daily, but in many cases they do not formally or intentionally train themselves or their staff members to write. I used qualitative methods of semi-structured interviews, observations, and document analysis to investigate how and to what extent mid-level managers are competent writers. And in terms of their organizations, I investigated the value placed on writing and how and to what extent writing training happens. The investigation of writing practices of professionals working in campus centers in the field of student affairs shows that mid-level campus center professionals write extensively in their positions, including writing across many document types (letters, memos, reports, financial documents), and for multiple audiences in and outside of the university setting (students, staff, peers, supervisors, community members, alumni). Mid-level managers value writing ability and the ability of their staff members to be able to write, and could improve writing knowledge and ability through competency training and development by connecting with work in the field of professional communication. Professional associations can and should support professionals using competency language that supports writing and writing training to develop writing skill and ability competencies. Mid-level managers, as both writers and supervisors, could join associations in employing intentional strategies for writing and writing training suggested by professional communication research.
Ph.D. in Technical Communication, May 2016
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Title: SEISMIC STUDY OF HYBRID SHEAR WALL SYSTEM
Creator: Xu, Lifeng
Date: 2013, 2013-07
Description: This thesis represents the seismic behavior of new hybrid shear wall system, which consists of two exterior precast wall layers and one...
Show moreThis thesis represents the seismic behavior of new hybrid shear wall system, which consists of two exterior precast wall layers and one interior cast-in-place concrete layer. The “sandwich” shaped shear walls were already tested as a full scale specimen subjecting to vertical pressure and cyclic horizontal load in Anhui University of Architecture, China (2010). A series of 3D non-linear finite element models which include all significant details and specifications were then created in ABAQUS to simulate the experiments. The pushover analyses method was employed to reproduce the test procedures. The response of the structure was computed both at macro and micro level at the result in order to validate the correctness of the analytical model. After verifying the good agreement between the experimental observations and simulation results, an extended parametric study was conducted towards this hybrid shear wall system to explore its damage mechanism and design optimization. Based on hybrid shear wall's specific seismic resisting capacity which derived from the previous simulation, a series of 2D models were created in SAP2000 to evaluate the seismic performance of hybrid shear wall structure. What's more, in order to precisely represent the 3D model effect into 2D model in SAP2000,3D model was created in ABAQUS to account for the influence of semi-rigid connection between the concrete diaphragm and hybrid shear wall. After applying the ability of semi-rigid connection and hybrid shear wall, pushover method and time history analysis were conducted towards this 18 story structure model. The global seismic performance factor is finally evaluated according to the FEMA-P695.
PH.D in Civil Engineering, July 2013
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Title: REMOVAL OF BACTERIAL CONTAMINANT FROM MODEL SUBSTRATES USING A MICELLAR NANOFLUID FORMULATION
Creator: Shim, Jiyoung
Date: 2017, 2017-05
Description: The oscillatory structural force (OSF) of a micellar film of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) was monitored with atomic force microscope (AFM)...
Show moreThe oscillatory structural force (OSF) of a micellar film of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) was monitored with atomic force microscope (AFM) using an attached glass microsphere against a smooth flat and energy homogenous solid substrate. The force versus distance measurements for the 0.03M and 0.06 M SDS micellar solutions were monitored. The force versus distance had an oscillatory decay profile with a period of oscillation which was the same as the micellar diameter. The number of periodic oscillations increased with an increase in the micellar concentration. The OSF in the SDS micellar film confinement was also proved by a thinning single foam film formed from a micellar solution. It was observed that, due to micellar layering, the film thinned in a multiple regular stepwise manner promoted by the OSF. The results obtained by the AFM and thinning single foam film were used in the application of the OSF to remove bacteria from a model solid substrate. The experimental data for the OSF was complemented with modeling research. The theoretical OSF curves were obtained using the statistical mechanics approach. The experimental data and theoretical results for OSF for SDS micellar film were analyzed and found to be in fair agreement with each other. Based on the model prediction calculation, the structural film interaction energy barrier for the both the 0.03 M and 0.06 M SDS micellar solutions was calculated; the estimated structural film interaction energy barrier due to the presence of the OSF was about 10 3 kT / 􀝉􀬶 for the 0.03 M SDS micellar solution and about 5 x 10􀬷 kT /􀝉􀬶for the 0.06 M SDS micellar solution in film with micellar layers at about 25 ºC. Understanding the interactions between bacteria and solid surfaces that result in bacterial adsorption and removal is of immense importance for reducing foodborne illness outbreaks. Here, we used fluorescence microscope in conjunction with the concept of the diffusion of bacteria from the bulk suspension to the substrate and the adsorption isotherm to estimate the adsorption energy for E.coli K12; we obtained a value of about 2.5 kT. This value compares favorably with the value of 2.1 kT reported previously for E.coli NCTC 9002 [49]. We also used the dynamic light scattering method to estimate the radius of gyration of E.coli K12, which has a diameter of about 1 m and a length of 2 m to estimate the effective volume. The radius of gyration was also used to estimate the surface area covered by the bacterium and compared it to the surface area measured from the image taken with fluorescence microscope. A nanofluid formulation comprised of a sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) micellar aqueous solution in the presence of an organic acid (as a pH controller) was used to test the E. coli K12 removal from two substrates, polyvinylchloride (PVC) and partially hydrophobic glass. We investigated the bacterial removal efficacy based on the combined effect of the nanofluid’s structural forces and bacterial isoelectric point. We predicted the nanofilm oscillatory structural energy (NOSF) against the E.coli K12 adsorption energy by applying the statistical mechanics approach. Based on the model prediction, the NOSF was estimated at the vertex of three phase contact angle between a bacterium and the substrate (i.e., the wedge film’s interaction energy at one particle layer). The evaluated film’s repulsive energy due to the NOSF was about 15.6  4.4 kT of the 0.02 M SMNF (the SDS micellar nanofluid formulation) and several times higher than the bacterial adsorption energy, 2.5  0.2 kT. These findings suggest that the NOSF is capable of bacteria/microorganism removal from contaminated substrates. Here, we present a methodology based on NOSF to optimize the nanofluid formulation for bacterial substrate removal and bulk inactivation. The results of this study will assist the food industry with the design of proper sanitation and will enhance microbial removal and inactivation strategies.
Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, May 2017
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Title: EXPERIMENTAL METHODS TO DETERMINE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF ALUMINUM FOAM LIGAMENTS
Creator: Mathur, Saurabh
Date: 2013, 2013-07
Description: Metal foams are widely used these days and their applications are far reaching from engineering to medical and beyond. This study is aimed at...
Show moreMetal foams are widely used these days and their applications are far reaching from engineering to medical and beyond. This study is aimed at characterizing the property of aluminum foam ligaments in terms of their strength and response to loads. The defining characteristic of metal foams is a very high porosity: typically 75– 95% of the volume consists of void spaces which give them high strength to weight ratio. The aluminum foam (Duocell by ERG Aerospace Corp.) that is used in this study is manufactured using the parent material aluminum alloy 6101-T6. Through this work an effort has been made to understand the mechanical properties of aluminum foam ligaments. The elastic modulus was estimated by conducting bending experiments on ligaments. The yield stress was estimated through both bending and tension experiments which are followed by estimation of ultimate tensile stress using tension experiments on ligaments. A comparative study was also done to understand the difference in mechanical properties of ligaments to that of bulk aluminum alloy 6101-T6. This work also laid emphasis on characterization of ligament geometry in order to understand the mechanical properties of material as geometry plays a very crucial role in the mechanical response of ligaments. The elastic modulus of ligaments was estimated as 13.3 GPa. The yield strength from tension experiment was estimated as 140 MPa and the ultimate tensile strength was estimated as 190MPa
M.S. in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, July 2013
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Title: SYNTHESIS AND INVESTIGATION OF NOVEL CATHODE MATERIALS FOR SODIUM ION BATTERIES
Creator: Sawicki, Monica
Date: 2015, 2015-12
Description: Environmental pollution and eventual depletion of fossil fuels and lithium has increased the need for research towards alternative electrical...
Show moreEnvironmental pollution and eventual depletion of fossil fuels and lithium has increased the need for research towards alternative electrical energy storage systems. In this context, research in sodium ion batteries (NIBs) has become more prevalent since the price in lithium has increased due to its demand and reserve location. Sodium is an abundant resource that is low cost, and safe; plus its chemical properties are similar to that of Li which makes the transition into using Na chemistry for ion battery systems feasible. In this study, we report the effects of processing conditions on the electrochemical properties of Na-ion batteries made of the NaCrO2 cathode. NaCrO2 is synthesized via solid state reactions. The as-synthesized powder is then subjected to high-energy ball milling under different conditions which reduces particle size drastically and causes significant degradation of the specific capacity for NaCrO2. X-ray diffraction reveals that the lattice distortion has taken place during high-energy ball milling and in turn affects the electrochemical performance of the cathode material. This study shows that a balance between reducing particle size and maintaining the layered structure is essential to obtain high specific capacity for the NaCrO2 cathode. In light of the requirements for grid scale energy storage: ultra-long cycle life (>20,000 cycles and calendar life of 15 to 20 years), high round trip efficiency (> 90%), low cost, sufficient power capability, and safety; the need for a suitable cathode materials with excellent capacity retention such as Na2MnFe(CN)6 and K2MnFe(CN)6 will be investigated. Prussian blue (A[FeIIIFeII (CN)6]•xH2O, A=Na+ or K+) and its analogues have been investigated as an alkali ion host for use as a cathode material. Their structure (FCC) provides large ionic channels along the <100> direction enabling facile insertion and extraction of alkali ions. This material is also capable of more than one Na ion insertion per unit formula which holds great promise in increasing the energy density of the NIB. The electrochemical performance of the cathode material will be analyzed using cyclic voltammetry, and galvanostatic charge/discharge investigation.
Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, December 2015
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Title: KINETIC STUDY OF BOTRYOCOCCUS BRAUNII AND BACTERIAL STRAIN MASS PRODUCTION
Creator: Ghodsi, Seyed Mohammadreza
Date: 2014, 2014-07
Description: The increase on petroleum-based fuel demand, lack of sufficient petroleum resources, reaching hazardous limits of green house gases and the...
Show moreThe increase on petroleum-based fuel demand, lack of sufficient petroleum resources, reaching hazardous limits of green house gases and the need for energy security are motivating the development of an alternate fuel besides conventional gas. Bio-diesel, as a potential replacement to petrol, is technically feasible, environmentally friendly, produced locally and provides low gallon per Btu. Biodiesel obtained from microalgae is a form of fuel being used recently which gives the opportunity to obtain energy in environmental friendly and sustainable manner without competing on human’s food as biofuel feedstock; growing microalgae and turning it to biodiesel is not cost effecttive yet though. In order to minimize the cost of microalgae production, each step of algal growth should be studied and optimized. The separation of algae cells from their aquatic medium, known as harvesting, is the most challenging and energy consuming step of growth cycle. Different studies have shown more than 30% of algal production energy consumption is dedicated to the harvesting phase. Small size of algae cells, low concentration, small density difference between algae and medium and ionic charge of medium makes it impossible to sediment algae cells by gravity or coagulation. An effective method to separate algae from its medium could be bio-flocculation. In this research Botryococcus Braunii microalgae has been co-cultured with a bacterial flocculant to form clumps of easy-harvesting biomass. The growth kinetics of this novel feedstock has been studied for the very first time, based on literature, and its optimum growth conditions have been derived.
M.S. in Chemical Engineering, July 2014
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