This honors thesis explores using machine learning technology to assist a patient's return to activity following a significant injury, specifically an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. The goal of the project was to determine if a machine learning model trained with ACL reconstruction (ACLR) applicable injury data would be able to correctly predict which phase of return to sport a patient would be classified in when introduced to a new data set.

The objective goal of this research is to maximize the speed of the end effector of a three link R-R-R mechanical system with constrained torque input control. The project utilizes MATLAB optimization tools to determine the optimal throwing motion of a simulated mechanical system, while mirroring the physical parameters and constraints of a human arm wherever possible. The analysis of this final result determines if the kinetic chain effect is present in the theoretically optimized solution. This is done by comparing it with an intuitively optimized system based on throwing motion derived from the forehand throw in Ultimate frisbee.

The following paper builds upon version one of The Women’s Power and Influence Index (WPI). The WPI Index is a product created by The Difference Engine, a center at ASU, to address gender inequality in the workplace. The WPI Index ranks Fortune 500 companies on various criteria and releases the information to the public in an easy-to-understand manner. Following the first release in 2021, we aim to help the WPI Index continue to grow by researching social movements that can inspire the Index, suggesting additional criteria for version 1.5, and raising awareness through events and social media. Part I of the paper details how social movements have utilized social pressure and social media to create broad change, setting the stage for the WPI Index’s public rankings to incentivize change. Part II provides research on new criteria we propose to be added to the Index for the next release. Lastly, part III covers how we used Tik Tok, events, and partnerships to help the Index gain notoriety. Altogether the paper suggests new directions and provides scientific research to further the goals of the WPI Index.

Malaria affects 229 million people annually, causing 410,000 deaths, with children being the most vulnerable. Insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) are the primary protection against mosquito bites, but 96% of nets become torn within two years of use. Our team developed a one-dollar repair kit that can be shipped alongside ITNs, including patching materials recycled from ITN manufacturing and simple-to-follow instructions. Our patching material, made from recycled high-density polyester anti-insect nets, is more than twice as strong as standard mosquito netting. During our first distribution in Uganda, 77% of families used our kits to repair their bed nets and experienced a 28.3% increase in their perceived importance of patching. Our primary target customers are nonprofits, governments, and governmental agencies. Our immediate market goal is to collaborate with major international malaria prevention nonprofits. With limited competition, our repair kits offer a superior, sustainable, and cost-effective solution. Our direct impact includes lives saved and cost savings for nonprofits. Our value proposition focuses on impact and outreach, as our kits increase net lifespan and organizations' reach.