“Electrical and Chemical Stimulation Through Ionically Conductive Scaffolds for Large-Gap Nerve Repair and Regeneration”
Skeletal Biology and Regeneration Doctoral Defense
Major advisor: Dr. Sangamesh Kumbar

Doctoral field of study: Electrical Engineering

Dissertation title: Utilization of Memristor Analytical Model for Device Emulation in Neural Networks: Exploring Degradation Dynamics and Performance Mitigation Strategies

Students who may benefit from attending a Let’s Talk: Mental Health Office Hours session include:

• Students who want help connecting to resources but are unsure where to begin
• Students who are looking for advice on a non-clinical issue
• Students who are unsure about therapy and are curious about what it is like to talk to a therapist
• Students who may have concerns about the mental health of a friend and seek advice on how to support their friend
  • If a student is not an imminent risk, and is refusing your support in contacting our office, you may also consider contacting the UConn Student CARE Team.

This session is held by Fumi Sowah, LCSW

Electrical and Electrochemical Investigation of Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion: Study of the Moisture-Induced Degradation of Halide Perovskite Thin Films; Investigation of Li⁺ Storage Properties of Sodium Tantalate
PhD in Materials Science

Introduction to Mindfulness

Barbershop

The “Barbershop Group” is a therapy group for men who have had past traumatic experiences and would like to learn new ways of coping and managing the effects of that trauma. The group recognizes the need for men to develop different skills that will effectively improve how we express our emotions and build relationships in a safe space. What better place to do that than the barbershop? The Barbershop model is derived from the “Men’s Trauma Recovery and Empowerment Model”- (M-TREM.) The Barbershop Group uses a Psycho-educational and skills-oriented approach that is person-centered. Over the years The Barbershop has provided men with a safe, non-judgmental setting where they can speak freely and be themselves. Unfortunately, we will not be providing haircuts, but we will be providing open discussion where honest responses in group discussions are encouraged, and we will engage in several exercises that are used to introduce you to and try new coping skills. I look forward to seeing you all at “The Shop”.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4705.

This session is held by Greg Davis, LPC

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

Dungeon’s and Therapy

Role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and Quest allow participants to take on the persona of fictional characters and to complete daring adventures across mysterious worlds. This therapy group takes the core elements of these games but also challenges you to set goals that will help change your behavior, attitude, and mindset in the real world.

In Dungeons & Therapy, you will work with a mental health clinician to create a fantasy character that is personalized to you and your goals. This character might excel at something with which you struggle, be the complete opposite of who you are, or be designed to help you emphasize any given attribute. Within sessions of Dungeons & Therapy, you will interact with other players not only to find treasures, solve puzzles, and converse with enigmatic individuals - but also to express meaningful parts of yourself.

No previous experience with Dungeons & Dragons or any other RPG is required.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4705.

This session is held by Alyson Faires, Psy.D

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

MIND AND BODY: SUPPORT AND EMPOWERMENT FOR STUDENTS WITH CHRONIC HEALTH CONDITIONS.

This weekly group is for students adjusting to coping with chronic health conditions in a university setting. This is a safe space for students to share their experiences and support each other in managing their health while also managing the challenges of college life. This group is a joint effort between medical and mental health services to ensure that students are cared for in a complete and holistic manner.’

This session is held by Jennifer Fox, PhD & Ryan Grade BSN, RN

For many concerns that students face- like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by SHaW counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

Introduction to Mindfulness

Students who may benefit from attending a Let’s Talk: Mental Health Office Hours session include:

• Students who want help connecting to resources but are unsure where to begin
• Students who are looking for advice on a non-clinical issue
• Students who are unsure about therapy and are curious about what it is like to talk to a therapist
• Students who may have concerns about the mental health of a friend and seek advice on how to support their friend
  • If a student is not an imminent risk, and is refusing your support in contacting our office, you may also consider contacting the UConn Student CARE Team.

This session is held by Sijia (Michelle) Chen, M.S.Ed

Students who may benefit from attending a Let’s Talk: Mental Health Office Hours session include:

• Students who want help connecting to resources but are unsure where to begin
• Students who are looking for advice on a non-clinical issue
• Students who are unsure about therapy and are curious about what it is like to talk to a therapist
• Students who may have concerns about the mental health of a friend and seek advice on how to support their friend
  • If a student is not an imminent risk, and is refusing your support in contacting our office, you may also consider contacting the UConn Student CARE Team.

This session is held by Ashley Smith, M.A.

Interpersonal Group for Graduate Students

Graduate Students Interpersonal Groups focuses on promoting emotional wellbeing as you balance academics, relationships, family, and personal responsibilities. Groups offer a supportive confidential space to share your concerns, practice skills and get feedback.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4700

This session is held by Carlos- Gonzalez- Martinez, LCSW

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

UConn Sexpert Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a new, free service offered by peer health educators, the UConn Sexperts, on the UConn Storrs campus!

Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a great option for students who have questions about sex and sexual health, are looking for a non-judgmental, laid-back environment to discuss a sex related concern or issue, or are interested in improving their sexual health and personal well-being. Our UConn Sexperts are trained to provide education, support, and connection to resources on and off-campus on a wide variety of topics pertaining to sex, sexual health, and relationships.

Mondays: 11:00am-4:00pm                                                                                    Tuesdays: 3:00pm-6:30pm                                                                              Wednesdays: 10:30am-6:30pm                                                                                  Thursdays: 3:30pm-6:30pm                                                                                        Fridays: 10:30am-5:00pm

UConn Sexperts (and supervising staff) are designated confidential employees under UConn’s Title IX Reporting Obligations. Peer support sessions are for educational and support purposes only. Peer support visits are not on-call or emergency services, and are not for individualized medical advice, nor are they counseling or therapy.

For more information, visit www.studenthealth.uconn.edu/sexperts 

Interpersonal Group for Undergraduate Students

Undergraduate Students Interpersonal Groups focuses on promoting emotional wellbeing as you balance academics, relationships, family, and personal responsibilities.
Groups offer a supportive confidential space to share your concerns, practice skills and get feedback.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4700.

This session is held by Maritza Lugo-Stalker, 

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

Dissertation Defense:

Educational Psychology, Learning Sciences Program (formerly Cognition, Instruction & Learning Technology)

Social Cognitive System of Feedback after an Oral Performance Task: A Study of the Impact of Web-based Video Annotated and Threaded Feedback on Oral Speaking Proficiency and Speaking Self-efficacy for English Language Acquisition Students

Defense of the thesis “Bone growth driven design of patient-specific porous implant”.

School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Manufacturing Engineering

Covers the computational optimization of porous structures such as scaffolds and implants for the maximization of bone growth.

UConn Sexpert Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a new, free service offered by peer health educators, the UConn Sexperts, on the UConn Storrs campus!

Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a great option for students who have questions about sex and sexual health, are looking for a non-judgmental, laid-back environment to discuss a sex related concern or issue, or are interested in improving their sexual health and personal well-being. Our UConn Sexperts are trained to provide education, support, and connection to resources on and off-campus on a wide variety of topics pertaining to sex, sexual health, and relationships.

Mondays: 11:00am-4:00pm                                                                                        Tuesdays: 3:00pm-6:30pm                                                                                    Wednesdays: 10:30am-6:30pm                                                                                Thursdays: 3:30pm-6:30pm                                                                                        Fridays: 10:30am-5:00pm

UConn Sexperts (and supervising staff) are designated confidential employees under UConn’s Title IX Reporting Obligations. Peer support sessions are for educational and support purposes only. Peer support visits are not on-call or emergency services, and are not for individualized medical advice, nor are they counseling or therapy.

For more information, visit www.studenthealth.uconn.edu/sexperts 

Pet Therapy

Pause for Paws! Pet therapy benefits include reducing stress, anxiety, & building empathy. Stop by to meet the dogs & to de-stress!

December 4 at noon at the student center

Please note: Pet therapy relies on volunteers & their ability to attend the events.

Introduction to Mindfulness

Interpersonal Group for Graduate Students

Graduate Students Interpersonal Groups focuses on promoting emotional wellbeing as you balance academics, relationships, family, and personal responsibilities. Groups offer a supportive confidential space to share your concerns, practice skills and get feedback.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4700

This session is held by Carlos- Gonzalez- Martinez, LCSW

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

Interpersonal Group for Undergraduate Students

Undergraduate Students Interpersonal Groups focuses on promoting emotional wellbeing as you balance academics, relationships, family, and personal responsibilities.
Groups offer a supportive confidential space to share your concerns, practice skills and get feedback.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4700.

This session is held by Maritza Lugo-Stalker, 

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

Students who may benefit from attending a Let’s Talk: Mental Health Office Hours session include:

• Students who want help connecting to resources but are unsure where to begin
• Students who are looking for advice on a non-clinical issue
• Students who are unsure about therapy and are curious about what it is like to talk to a therapist
• Students who may have concerns about the mental health of a friend and seek advice on how to support their friend
  • If a student is not an imminent risk, and is refusing your support in contacting our office, you may also consider contacting the UConn Student CARE Team.

This session is held by Heather Kocum, LPC

Pet Therapy 

Pause for Paws! Pet therapy benefits include reducing stress, anxiety, & building empathy based on research. Stop by to meet the dogs & to de-stress!

Please note: Pet therapy relies on volunteers & their ability to attend the events.

3D Printing Food with Targeted Nutrition and Tunable Texture

3D printing, or additive manufacturing, has seen an explosion of methods and use cases. 3D printing is well suited for mass customization of food products with targeted nutrition and tunable texture. This work focuses on leveraging BJT (Binder jet 3D Printing) to produce personalized foods with varying texture and micro-nutrient amounts.

Mitigating Climate Change: Cross-National Variation in Policy Ambitions

Field of Study: Political Science

Introduction to Mindfulness

UConn Sexpert Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a new, free service offered by peer health educators, the UConn Sexperts, on the UConn Storrs campus!

Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a great option for students who have questions about sex and sexual health, are looking for a non-judgmental, laid-back environment to discuss a sex related concern or issue, or are interested in improving their sexual health and personal well-being. Our UConn Sexperts are trained to provide education, support, and connection to resources on and off-campus on a wide variety of topics pertaining to sex, sexual health, and relationships.

Mondays: 11:00am-4:00pm                                                                                        Tuesdays: 3:00pm-6:30pm                                                                                Wednesdays: 10:30am-6:30pm                                                                              Thursdays: 3:30pm-6:30pm                                                                                        Fridays: 10:30am-5:00pm

UConn Sexperts (and supervising staff) are designated confidential employees under UConn’s Title IX Reporting Obligations. Peer support sessions are for educational and support purposes only. Peer support visits are not on-call or emergency services, and are not for individualized medical advice, nor are they counseling or therapy.

For more information, visit www.studenthealth.uconn.edu/sexperts 

BLOOM: Undergraduate Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)

This group is a space created for female Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) - identifying students to cultivate vulnerability, safety, trust, connection, and growth. Bloom provides a place for group members to discuss issues unique to their experience at a predominantly white institution (PWI), including academic stress, relationships, race/ethnicity related stress, familial pressures and navigating cultural expectations. There will be an emphasis on healing, maintaining healthy relationships and setting boundaries. Bloom means to be open, blossom and to maintain flourishing conditions that help us grow. It’s time to Bloom.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4700

This session is held by Chantaul Smith, LMFT

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

Growth Through Grief

This weekly clinical group supports students grieving the death of a loved one and students coming together to support and empower each other during times of grief.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4700

This session is held by Jennifer Fox, PhD

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

Functionalization of Gold Nanoparticles for Applications in Chemical and Biological Sensors

UConn Sexpert Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a new, free service offered by peer health educators, the UConn Sexperts, on the UConn Storrs campus!

Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a great option for students who have questions about sex and sexual health, are looking for a non-judgmental, laid-back environment to discuss a sex related concern or issue, or are interested in improving their sexual health and personal well-being. Our UConn Sexperts are trained to provide education, support, and connection to resources on and off-campus on a wide variety of topics pertaining to sex, sexual health, and relationships.

Mondays: 11:00am-4:00pm                                                                                 Tuesdays: 3:00pm-6:30pm                                                                              Wednesdays: 10:30am-6:30pm                                                                              Thursdays: 3:30pm-6:30pm                                                                                        Fridays: 10:30am-5:00pm

UConn Sexperts (and supervising staff) are designated confidential employees under UConn’s Title IX Reporting Obligations. Peer support sessions are for educational and support purposes only. Peer support visits are not on-call or emergency services, and are not for individualized medical advice, nor are they counseling or therapy.

For more information, visit www.studenthealth.uconn.edu/sexperts 

Maternal Health Group

A support group for pregnant and parenting students designed to provide education and support around the transition to motherhood and navigating the stress of higher education. Group will be co-facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker and an APRN. Specific topics to be discussed include exploring transitions to motherhood, discussing mental health concerns, promoting healthy sleep habits, attachment and bonding, creating healthy work/school/life balance, and many others. Students are encouraged to come as they are and should feel comfortable to bring their babies along!

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4705.

This session is held by Natasha Welz, LCSW and Carly Odesina, APRN

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

Families with Addiction

This group is for students who are or have been deeply affected by having parent(s) or sibling(s) struggling with addictions. May also consider situations where the family member’s primary issue is a severe psychiatric disorder, but that substance use is also present.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4700

This session is held by Jonathan Beazley, LMFT, SW

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

Algorithms for Ancestry Inference using DNA Test.

Computer Science, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics.

Quantile and expectile regression with rare feature aggregations.

All Recovery Meetings are available for UConn students. The meetings are a gathering for all who struggle with substance use and/or other mental and behavioral health disorders. An All Recovery meeting is ‘non-denominational’ meaning all pathways of recovery are embraced here. A universal recovery topic is chosen and then the group discusses it. It is not affiliated with any “Anonymous” program although you are likely to hear comments associated with 12 step fellowships. Meetings are facilitated by a student member of the URC supported by a Recovery Coach and held in person and online for students from all of UConn’s campuses.

Stop by to learn a new safer-sex skill, such as a how to use a condom, or a dental dam, and earn some fun prizes! Condoms, lubrication, and dental dams will also be available for all students. 

For more information about the UConn Sexperts, visit studenthealth.uconn.edu/sexperts

Students who may benefit from attending a Let’s Talk: Mental Health Office Hours session include:

• Students who want help connecting to resources but are unsure where to begin
• Students who are looking for advice on a non-clinical issue
• Students who are unsure about therapy and are curious about what it is like to talk to a therapist
• Students who may have concerns about the mental health of a friend and seek advice on how to support their friend
  • If a student is not an imminent risk, and is refusing your support in contacting our office, you may also consider contacting the UConn Student CARE Team.

This session is held by Fumi Sowah, LCSW

Title: Continuous Glucose Monitoring Calibration and Metabolic Patterning
Field of study: Polymer Science

PhD defense for Olivia Vanegas (Behavioral Neuroscience) on “Evaluating the Pharmacological Effects of Minor Phytocannabinoids on Pain, Inflammation, Emotionality, and Thermoregulation.”

Interpersonal Group for Graduate Students

Graduate Students Interpersonal Groups focuses on promoting emotional wellbeing as you balance academics, relationships, family, and personal responsibilities. Groups offer a supportive confidential space to share your concerns, practice skills and get feedback.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4700

This session is held by Carlos- Gonzalez- Martinez, LCSW

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

UConn Sexpert Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a new, free service offered by peer health educators, the UConn Sexperts, on the UConn Storrs campus!

Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a great option for students who have questions about sex and sexual health, are looking for a non-judgmental, laid-back environment to discuss a sex related concern or issue, or are interested in improving their sexual health and personal well-being. Our UConn Sexperts are trained to provide education, support, and connection to resources on and off-campus on a wide variety of topics pertaining to sex, sexual health, and relationships.

Mondays: 11:00am-4:00pm                                                                                    Tuesdays: 3:00pm-6:30pm                                                                              Wednesdays: 10:30am-6:30pm                                                                                  Thursdays: 3:30pm-6:30pm                                                                                        Fridays: 10:30am-5:00pm

UConn Sexperts (and supervising staff) are designated confidential employees under UConn’s Title IX Reporting Obligations. Peer support sessions are for educational and support purposes only. Peer support visits are not on-call or emergency services, and are not for individualized medical advice, nor are they counseling or therapy.

For more information, visit www.studenthealth.uconn.edu/sexperts 

Interpersonal Group for Undergraduate Students

Undergraduate Students Interpersonal Groups focuses on promoting emotional wellbeing as you balance academics, relationships, family, and personal responsibilities.
Groups offer a supportive confidential space to share your concerns, practice skills and get feedback.

To join this group therapy session, please call SHaW at 860-486-4700.

This session is held by Maritza Lugo-Stalker, 

For many concerns that students face – like overwhelming stress, anxiety, difficult relationships, depression, academic difficulties, and more – group therapy is the best option for support and healing. Facilitated by Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) counselors, our therapy groups encourage peer support, promote emotional wellbeing, and increase a felt sense of connection. Participants often find that they feel less alone in their struggles, and walk away with newfound support and ideas for coping.

Ph.D. dissertation defense: Materials Science and Engineering

Doctoral Dissertation Oral Defense, Nimesha Kithmini Wijesiri
B.Sc. (Hons) University of Peradeniya

Title: “Dynamic Models of Retinal Proteins from Hybrid QM/MM Simulations”

Date: Thursday, December 12th, 2024

Time: 11:00 AM

Location: Chemistry building - room A304
& virtual

Teams Link to the meeting:
https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZmZmMDNlZDctMzkzOS00YTI1LTk3N2YtYWI1OWJmNTU3YzIw%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2217f1a87e-2a25-4eaa-b9df-9d439034b080%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22dc3f47b1-f175-43d5-bb7a-86850b539f54%22%7d

From Empirical to Certified Defenses: Adversarial Threats and Defenses in Deep Learning.

*Date changed from 12/17 to December 12th, Thursday, 1:00 PM - 3:00PM

Metal-Oxide-Based Composite Materials for Light-Driven Catalysis: Fabrication, Optimization and Characterization
Field of Study: Inorganic Chemistry

This event will be held via the Microsoft Teams platfrom.

Enhancing Nursing Efficiency Through Optimized Documentation Practices

In situ fabrication of macroporous scaffolds for soft and hard tissue engineering applications

Biomedical Engineering

Road Users and Safety: Integrating Exposure Surrogates, Telematics Data, and Socio-Demographic Analysis
Field of Study: Civil Engineering
Area of Concentration: Transportation and Urban Engineering
This dissertation advances road safety by addressing gaps in understanding the complex interactions among various factors influencing crashes. Using innovative methodologies and data sources, it explores diverse aspects, including driving population exposure, crash surrogates, pedestrian crash disparities, and high-risk crash locations. The findings provide actionable insights for proactive safety management and equitable transportation planning.

Dissertation Title: Contextual Factors Impacting the Use of Medications for Opioid Disorder in Recovery Residences
Department of Social Work

“You’re already Black, so you’re halfway doomed”: Discourses impacting access to care among Black women and Black gender-expansive individuals with disordered eating/eating disorders.

Department of Communication

Utilizing a critical postmodern approach to intersectionality theory, I center experiences of Black women and Black gender-expansive people to interrogate which and by what means societal Discourses around identity, bodies, and health are called upon by health care providers (HCPs), close others (e.g., family, coaches, friends), and the individuals themselves. Further, I outline how these Discourses are reified or resisted, and speak to the role of power and identity—of both patient and provider—that have helped or hindered their experiences to access and quality of care.

Thesis title: Unraveling Host-Microbe Symbiosis Through the Lens of Nutrient Sharing and Antimicrobial Peptides
This work explores the general abundance of metals with three model systems and how an uncharacterized peptide within one of the systems may be key factors in modulating host-microbe symbiosis.

Abstract: In the pursuit of advancing machine learning, this doctoral dissertation defense presents a unified examination of algorithm and system co-design approaches to enhance efficiency and privacy across various computational models. At the core of this thesis is a series of integrated methodologies that transform the landscape of machine learning by addressing the dual challenges of computational performance and data security in an increasingly connected world.

The research encapsulated within this proposal spans transformative solutions such as hardware-friendly sparse attention mechanisms and dynamic resource allocation on FPGA platforms, which streamline processing times for complex Transformer models. It further delves into the realm of private network inference, introducing automated ReLU replacement strategies with polynomial approximations and nonlinear reduction that accelerate inference without sacrificing privacy or accuracy. The thesis also ventures into the optimization of privacy-preserving machine learning with homomorphic encryption, reducing computational overhead while maintaining robust security measures. Lastly, it explores the acceleration of graph neural network training through novel GPU kernel designs that improve computation speeds by orders of magnitude. Collectively, these contributions represent a cohesive strategy toward efficient and secure machine learning, showcasing the potential of co-design to revolutionize both the theory and practice of deep neural networks across various computing paradigms.