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- Title
- ANTON CHEKHOV:THE CHARACTERIZATION AND INTERPRETATIONOF A HISTORICAL FIGURE FOR THE STAGE.
- Creator
-
gALLANT, Alan, Seay, Donald, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
ABSTRACT This thesis will explore the execution of the monograph role of "Anton Chekhov" in the original one-act play, An Evening with Anton Chekhov. The play script, rehearsal and public performances of the piece are all self- generated by the candidate, with the proper assistance of the thesis committee. This written thesis serves as the completion of the thesis project, and includes analysis of several key areas of the development of the script and thesis role. This document includes the...
Show moreABSTRACT This thesis will explore the execution of the monograph role of "Anton Chekhov" in the original one-act play, An Evening with Anton Chekhov. The play script, rehearsal and public performances of the piece are all self- generated by the candidate, with the proper assistance of the thesis committee. This written thesis serves as the completion of the thesis project, and includes analysis of several key areas of the development of the script and thesis role. This document includes the original script with endnotes and a structural analysis. Social and historical background of the character, Anton Chekhov, a real person, is presented. This background includes the history as it pertains to Anton Chekhov and the national mindset in pre-revolutionary Russia. This background is integral in not only the development of the character, but also of the script which supports the character. Much of what is contained in the script is from correspondences, anecdotes, and written material from and about Anton Chekhov. These materials will be used as interpretive tools in the development of the character, and includes clues to physical appearance and personality. The character analysis contained herein is, in part, a reflection of these historical and environmental concerns. In addition, external and internal portrayal and the means used to achieve them are discussed. These means include physical and vocal techniques for the stage in conjunction with the use of emotional recall, behaving "as if," and being emotionally and energetically present for the acting partner. Since this is a "one man show," the acting partner will take the form of the audience as other or confidante. This phenomenon, and its effect on the performance, is included in the written thesis. The acting approach in execution of the monograph will also be reflected in a journal, which will contain a record of the successes, challenges, choices and adjustments made in the rehearsal/performance process. Included among these will be the various adjustments made in order to achieve a higher level of spontaneity in movement and transition, and how this semi-improvisational approach aided in adjusting to each unique audience in performance. Analysis will be provided by members of the committee. Dr. Julia Listengarten and Mark Brotherton will submit performance analysis, while the committee chair, Dr. Donald Seay will also provide rehearsal reports. Script work on An Evening with Anton Chekhov will begin in October of 2005, with rehearsals commencing on February 6, 2006. Two performances will be given at the Black Box theatre on the campus of UCF on Monday, February 27, and Tuesday February 28, 2006.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0000961, ucf:46722
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000961
- Title
- PHYSICAL AND BEHAVIORAL COMPLAINTS IN CHILDREN WITH ATTENTION-DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD): PARADOXICAL EFFECTS OF METHYLPHENIDATE.
- Creator
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Coiro, Maria, Rapport, Mark, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Hypotheses concerning paradoxical, psychostimulant-related side effects experienced by ADHD children were examined in the context of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, within subject (crossover) experimental design. Results revealed that behavioral and physical complaints were significantly higher under baseline relative to placebo and the four methylphenidate (MPH) conditions (5-mg, 10-mg, 15-mg, 20-mg) across three symptom categories: ADHD core/secondary symptoms, symptoms common to all...
Show moreHypotheses concerning paradoxical, psychostimulant-related side effects experienced by ADHD children were examined in the context of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, within subject (crossover) experimental design. Results revealed that behavioral and physical complaints were significantly higher under baseline relative to placebo and the four methylphenidate (MPH) conditions (5-mg, 10-mg, 15-mg, 20-mg) across three symptom categories: ADHD core/secondary symptoms, symptoms common to all children, and symptoms highly specific to MPH. No significant differences were found among active drug conditions. Implications of these findings for assessing and monitoring potential treatment emergent symptoms in children are discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000708, ucf:46604
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000708
- Title
- EXPLORING DIET, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, AND SELF-REPORTED HEALTH STATUS AMONG INDIVIDUALS IN THE MEDICALLY UNDERSERVED POPULATION.
- Creator
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Devoe, Kelley R, Valdes, Anna, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The primary purpose of this study is to determine if certain lifestyle and health behaviors (e.g. smoking, physical activity, diet) in the medically underserved population have any influence on particular health statuses. This study also looked to determine if these health behaviors resulted in particular medical aliments being more prevalent or specific to this community. The secondary purpose of this study aims to gain information that may help health care providers practicing in this...
Show moreThe primary purpose of this study is to determine if certain lifestyle and health behaviors (e.g. smoking, physical activity, diet) in the medically underserved population have any influence on particular health statuses. This study also looked to determine if these health behaviors resulted in particular medical aliments being more prevalent or specific to this community. The secondary purpose of this study aims to gain information that may help health care providers practicing in this community to earlier identify risk factors in patients before a medical problem becomes more severe, difficult and expensive to treat. A survey, adapted from the CDC's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), was created to allow for the collection of descriptive statistical data. The survey contains questions on the various topics of diet, physical activity, chronic diseases, and self-perception of overall health status. The survey was distributed to 20 older adult participants at Hebni Nutrition, LLC, all from disadvantaged backgrounds. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Of the 20 surveys collected, about half of the respondents reported consuming close to the recommended fruit and vegetable servings and participating in regular physical activity. Furthermore, the participants reported rates of diabetes and hypertension well above average. This study's results were inconclusive as to whether any specific health behaviors among medically underserved individuals influence the prevalence of chronic diseases in this population; more likely a combination of many factors and overall poorer health habits that persist over a lifetime are contributors to chronic diseases among the medically underserved population.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000292, ucf:45892
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000292
- Title
- THE EFFECT OF IMPURITIES ON THE SUPERCONDUCTIVITY OF BSCCO-2212.
- Creator
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Vastola, John, Klemm, Richard, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
BSCCO-2212 is a high-temperature cuprate superconductor whose microscopic behavior is currently poorly understood. In particular, it is unclear whether its order parameter is consistent with s-wave or d-wave symmetry. It has been suggested that its order parameter might take one of several forms that are consistent with d-wave behavior. We present some calculations using the many-body theory approach to superconductivity that suggest that such order parameters would lead to a suppression of...
Show moreBSCCO-2212 is a high-temperature cuprate superconductor whose microscopic behavior is currently poorly understood. In particular, it is unclear whether its order parameter is consistent with s-wave or d-wave symmetry. It has been suggested that its order parameter might take one of several forms that are consistent with d-wave behavior. We present some calculations using the many-body theory approach to superconductivity that suggest that such order parameters would lead to a suppression of the critical temperature in the presence of impurities. Because some experiments have suggested the critical temperature of BSCCO-2212 is relatively independent of the concentration of impurities, this lends support to the hypothesis that its order parameter has s-wave symmetry.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000073, ucf:45541
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000073
- Title
- THE ROLE OF FACIAL APPEARANCE IN GENDER CATEGORIZATION.
- Creator
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Simpkins, Joshua, Carter, Shannon, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Of the many systems of social organization which members of US society use to categorize other members, gender is one of the most important. The gender system operates to place members of US society into categories, and then allocate labor and resources to those members on the basis of their category membership. In order to better understand the gender system, this study examines the methods by which members of US society use the gender system to place other members into a gender category....
Show moreOf the many systems of social organization which members of US society use to categorize other members, gender is one of the most important. The gender system operates to place members of US society into categories, and then allocate labor and resources to those members on the basis of their category membership. In order to better understand the gender system, this study examines the methods by which members of US society use the gender system to place other members into a gender category. First, full facial photographs were taken of a group of participants of varying gender, race, ethnicity, and age. Then, parts of each participant's face were isolated digitally and shown to a second group of participants. This second group was asked to identify the sex and/or gender of the individual in the image, indicate how confident they were in this identification, and then write a brief explanation for why they identified the individual in the image as they did. The analysis conducted by this study supports three findings. First, though the gender categories "male" and "female" are still widely predominant, other categories such as "genderqueer" are seeing use as well. Second, the mouth and lips tend to be seen as more important indicators of gender than other facial features. Finally, while the race and gender category membership of the member doing the categorizing has little or no interaction with the gender categorization process, the race and gender category membership of the member being categorized does have a significant interaction.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFH0003690, ucf:44750
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0003690
- Title
- GENDER ROLE PERSONALITIES AND PHYSICAL ATTRACTIVENESS.
- Creator
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Bailly, Laura, Murdoch, Erin, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of the current study was to explore whether personality dispositions can influence perceived physical appearance. Past research demonstrates that gendered and non-gendered characteristics lead to differential preferences for potential romantic interests among males and females (e.g., Cash & Smith, 1982). These previous studies have not, however, measured direct influence on pulchritude. In the present study, gendered and non-gendered personality descriptions were paired with...
Show moreThe purpose of the current study was to explore whether personality dispositions can influence perceived physical appearance. Past research demonstrates that gendered and non-gendered characteristics lead to differential preferences for potential romantic interests among males and females (e.g., Cash & Smith, 1982). These previous studies have not, however, measured direct influence on pulchritude. In the present study, gendered and non-gendered personality descriptions were paired with pictures of average-looking individuals of both sexes to determine the influence of gender roles on perceived physical attractiveness. I hypothesized that males would find androgynous females more physically attractive than gender-typed and non-gender typed females. Similarly, females would find androgynous males more physically attractive than gender-typed and non-gender typed males. Findings indicated that feminine and androgynous personalities significantly increased perceived physical attractiveness of target females for the male participants, whereas undifferentiated and masculine roles significantly decreased perceived physical attractiveness of target males for female participants. Target photographs accompanied by feminine personality descriptions were rated the highest in overall desirability by both sexes.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFH0004302, ucf:45051
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004302
- Title
- THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CONSCIOUSNESS AND INTENTIONALITY.
- Creator
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Bell, Jordan, Cash, Mason, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Within the Philosophy of Mind two features of our mental life have been acknowledged as the most perplexing - consciousness, the phenomenal "what it is likeness" of our mental states, and intentionality, the aboutness or directedness of our mental states. As such, it has become commonplace to develop theories about these phenomena which seek to explain them naturalistically, that is, without resort to magic or miracles. Traditionally this has been done by analyzing consciousness and...
Show moreWithin the Philosophy of Mind two features of our mental life have been acknowledged as the most perplexing - consciousness, the phenomenal "what it is likeness" of our mental states, and intentionality, the aboutness or directedness of our mental states. As such, it has become commonplace to develop theories about these phenomena which seek to explain them naturalistically, that is, without resort to magic or miracles. Traditionally this has been done by analyzing consciousness and intentionality apart from one another. However, in more recent years the tide has turned. In contemporary theories these phenomena are typically analyzed in terms of the other. This results in two competing views: Representationalism, which seeks to ground consciousness in intentionality, and Phenomenalism, which seeks to ground intentionality in consciousness. David Chalmers has proposed an alternative view to these which takes consciousness and intentionality as essentially interdependent, neither more fundamental than the other. This thesis explores the motivations for Representationalism and Phenomenalism, outlines their extraneous commitments, and analyzes their merits - as well as assessing whether Chalmers' view is a defensible middle ground. This involves an analysis of the metaphysical doctrine of physicalism, phenomenal consciousness, intentionality, and the nature of mental content. I argue that the view which Chalmers advocates is the best supported. Yet, I argue, it could benefit by adopting a thoroughgoing externalism of mental content.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFH0004381, ucf:44988
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004381
- Title
- Undergraduate Student Agreement With Reformed Introductory Physics Classes.
- Creator
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Wilcox, Matthew, Chini, Jackie, Del Barco, Enrique, Saitta, Erin, Sivo, Stephen, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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In this study, I investigate student (")buy-in("), defined as students' proper understanding of and agreement with the class format, for introductory studio physics classes that incorporate lectures, labs, and group problem-solving activities into one interactive environment. I also investigate the ways in which instructors try to gain student buy-in to their class. Research has shown that student resistance to reformed instruction is a barrier to an instructor's use of research-based...
Show moreIn this study, I investigate student (")buy-in("), defined as students' proper understanding of and agreement with the class format, for introductory studio physics classes that incorporate lectures, labs, and group problem-solving activities into one interactive environment. I also investigate the ways in which instructors try to gain student buy-in to their class. Research has shown that student resistance to reformed instruction is a barrier to an instructor's use of research-based instructional strategies that are common to the studio class. Expectancy value theory suggests that by gaining student buy-in to the reformed class format, student resistance will decrease thus allowing a more effective class. I created a survey to measure student agreement with their class and another survey to determine the strategies that instructors use to gain student buy-in. I describe the responses to the surveys and use hierarchical models to determine if student agreement predicts their performance in the class and if the instructor strategies have an effect on student agreement. To triangulate these findings, I also interviewed instructors and students. From the surveys, I found that students disagree with the time spent lecturing and the importance and time spent reading outside of class. This is important because student agreement with the time spent in class predicts favorable attitudes about physics and their agreement with the time spent outside of class predicts a higher expected final grade. From the interviews, I discovered that both instructors and students believe that using evidence to justify the class format would be an effective strategy to gain agreement. However, few instructors used evidence due to a lack of prepared materials. Future work should develop materials to support instructors in presenting evidence about studio's effectiveness and investigate the impact on student buy-in and other outcomes.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007265, ucf:52197
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007265
- Title
- Persistence of Physical Activity Among Veterans.
- Creator
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Davis, Jean, Edwards, Joellen, Loerzel, Victoria, Weiss, Josie, Kehinde, Julius, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The global burden of disease is staggering in terms of financial costs and human suffering. The general public is aware that physical activity is healthy, although the fact that physical activity can treat and reverse diseases, reduce the risk of cancers, prevent many chronic diseases, stave off cognitive decline, and contribute to quality longevity is less well known. Healthcare practitioners and policymakers are impeded in efforts to support physical activity due to the lack of knowledge of...
Show moreThe global burden of disease is staggering in terms of financial costs and human suffering. The general public is aware that physical activity is healthy, although the fact that physical activity can treat and reverse diseases, reduce the risk of cancers, prevent many chronic diseases, stave off cognitive decline, and contribute to quality longevity is less well known. Healthcare practitioners and policymakers are impeded in efforts to support physical activity due to the lack of knowledge of factors associated with physical activity persistence. The purpose of this dissertation was to determine these factors and identify which predict persistent physical activity among veterans to inform future programs and policies to support physical activity for health. The theorized influence of physical activity habit is addressed in the initial dissertation manuscript. Habits being more difficult to lapse from than to continue made them suitable for investigation to address the knowledge gap identified when no reports of long-term physical activity habits were found. Veterans provided an ideal population to study long-term physical activity habits with, as research indicates that veterans likely formed physical activity habits through recurrent physical activity required to meet the fitness requirements of active duty service. This led to the research reported in the second manuscript. The research was based on theory, literature review, and input from veterans. The integrated theory of health behavior change informed the predictor variables investigated. The explanatory and predictive cross-sectional study of community-dwelling veterans used the web survey method to answer questions of which factors were associated with sufficient or insufficient physical activity among veterans, and which factors were predictive. Recruitment of veterans occurred through Amazon's Mechanical Turk (MTurk(&)#174;) and linked veterans to the survey on Qualtrics(&)#174;. Findings revealed direct associations of exercise self-regulation, social support for exercise, and some service-related and other demographic factors with sufficient or insufficient physical activity. Qualtrics(&)#174; allowed for the presentation of survey questions in a variety of formats. To determine the best format for survey items, a state of the knowledge review was conducted. This review is presented in the final dissertation manuscript. Implications for future research, health education, clinical practice, and health policy are identified. It is expected that the knowledge gained in this study will inform future Veterans Affairs programs, provider practices, public health initiatives, and health care policies to support physical activity practices for healthy longevity.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007886, ucf:52783
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007886
- Title
- Sparse signal recovery under sensing and physical hardware constraints.
- Creator
-
Mardaninajafabadi, Davood, Atia, George, Mikhael, Wasfy, Vosoughi, Azadeh, Rahnavard, Nazanin, Abouraddy, Ayman, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This dissertation focuses on information recovery under two general types of sensing constraints and hardware limitations that arise in practical data acquisition systems. We study the effects of these practical limitations in the context of signal recovery problems from interferometric measurements such as for optical mode analysis.The first constraint stems from the limited number of degrees of freedom of an information gathering system, which gives rise to highly constrained sensing...
Show moreThis dissertation focuses on information recovery under two general types of sensing constraints and hardware limitations that arise in practical data acquisition systems. We study the effects of these practical limitations in the context of signal recovery problems from interferometric measurements such as for optical mode analysis.The first constraint stems from the limited number of degrees of freedom of an information gathering system, which gives rise to highly constrained sensing structures. In contrast to prior work on compressive signal recovery which relies for the most part on introducing additional hardware components to emulate randomization, we establish performance guarantees for successful signal recovery from a reduced number of measurements even with the constrained interferometer structure obviating the need for non-native components. Also, we propose control policies to guide the collection of informative measurements given prior knowledge about the constrained sensing structure. In addition, we devise a sequential implementation with a stopping rule, shown to reduce the sample complexity for a target performance in reconstruction.The second limitation considered is due to physical hardware constraints, such as the finite spatial resolution of the used components and their finite aperture size. Such limitations introduce non-linearities in the underlying measurement model. We first develop a more accurate measurement model with structured noise representing a known non-linear function of the input signal, obtained by leveraging side information about the sampling structure. Then, we devise iterative denoising algorithms shown to enhance the quality of sparse recovery in the presence of physical constraints by iteratively estimating and eliminating the non-linear term from the measurements. We also develop a class of clipping-cognizant reconstruction algorithms for modal reconstruction from interferometric measurements that compensate for clipping effects due to the finite aperture size of the used components and show they yield significant gains over schemes oblivious to such effects.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007675, ucf:52467
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007675
- Title
- A NOVEL EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH USING A RECONFIGURABLE TEST SETUP FOR COMPLEX NONLINEAR DYNAMIC SYSTEMS.
- Creator
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Rank, Aaron, Yun, Hae-Bum, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Experimental nonlinear dynamics is an important area of study in the modern engineering field, with engineering applications in structural dynamics, structural control, and structural health monitoring. As a result, the discipline has experienced a great influx of research efforts to develop a versatile and reliable experimental methodology. A technical challenge in many experimental studies is the procurement of a device that exhibits the desired nonlinear behavior. As a result, many...
Show moreExperimental nonlinear dynamics is an important area of study in the modern engineering field, with engineering applications in structural dynamics, structural control, and structural health monitoring. As a result, the discipline has experienced a great influx of research efforts to develop a versatile and reliable experimental methodology. A technical challenge in many experimental studies is the procurement of a device that exhibits the desired nonlinear behavior. As a result, many researchers have longed for a versatile, but accurate, testing methodology that has complete freedom to simulate a wide range of nonlinearities and stochastic behaviors. The objective of this study is to develop a reconfigurable test setup as a tool to be used in a wide range of nonlinear dynamic studies. The main components include a moving mass whose restoring force can accurately be controlled and reprogrammed (with software) based upon measured displacement and velocity readings at each time step. The device offers control over nonlinear characteristics and the equation of dynamic motion. The advantage of having such an experimental setup is the ability to simulate various types of nonlinearities with the same test setup. As a result, the data collected can be used to help validate nonlinear modeling, system identification, and stochastic analysis studies. A physical test apparatus was developed, and various mechanical, electrical, and programming calibrations were performed for reliable experimental studies. To display potential uses for the reconfigurable approach, examples are presented where the device has been used to create physical data for use in change detection and deterioration studies. In addition, a demonstration is presented of the device's ability to physically simulate a large-scale orifice viscous damper, devices commonly used for vibration mitigation in bridges and buildings. For a large-scale viscous damper, physical testing is required to ensure structural design properties. However, due to the large scale of the dampers, expensive dynamic loading tests can be carried out at a very limited number of facilities. Using the reconfigurable test setup, the dynamic signature of the large-scale viscous damper can accurately be simulated with pre-collected data. The development of a system capable of emulating the restoring force of a nonlinear device with software is a novel approach and requires further calibration for increased reliability and accuracy. A discussion regarding the challenges faced when developing the methodology is presented and possible solutions are recommended. The methodology introduced by this apparatus is very promising. The device is a valuable experimental tool for researchers and designers, allowing for physical data collection, modeling, analysis, and validation of a wide class of nonlinear phenomena that commonly occur in a wide variety of engineering applications.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0003982, ucf:48654
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003982
- Title
- Investigating the Predictive Power of Student Characteristics on Success in Studio-mode, Algebra-based Introductory Physics Courses.
- Creator
-
Pond, Jarrad, Rahman, Talat, Chini, Jacquelyn, Mucciolo, Eduardo, Butler, Malcolm, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
As part of a project to explore the differential success of similar implementations of the studio-mode of physics instruction, the objective of this work is to investigate the characteristics of students enrolled in algebra-based, studio-mode introductory physics courses at various universities in order to evaluate what effects these characteristics have on different measures of student success, such as gains in conceptual knowledge, shifts to more favorable attitudes toward physics, and...
Show moreAs part of a project to explore the differential success of similar implementations of the studio-mode of physics instruction, the objective of this work is to investigate the characteristics of students enrolled in algebra-based, studio-mode introductory physics courses at various universities in order to evaluate what effects these characteristics have on different measures of student success, such as gains in conceptual knowledge, shifts to more favorable attitudes toward physics, and final course grades. In my analysis, I explore the strategic self-regulatory, motivational, and demographic characteristics of students in algebra-based, studio-mode physics courses at three universities: the University of Central Florida (UCF), Georgia State University (GSU), and George Washington University (GW). Each of these institutions possesses varying student populations and differing levels of success in their studio-mode physics courses, as measured by students' overall average conceptual learning gains. In order to collect information about the students at each institution, I compiled questions from several existing questionnaires designed to measure student characteristics such as study strategies and motivations for learning physics, and organization of scientific knowledge. I also gathered student demographic information. This compiled survey, named the Student Characteristics Survey (SCS) was given at all three institutions. Using similar information collected from students, other studies (J. A. Chen, 2012; Nelson, Shell, Husman, Fishman, (&) Soh, 2015; Schwinger, Steinmayr, (&) Spinath, 2012; Shell (&) Husman, 2008; Shell (&) Soh, 2013; Tuominen-Soini, Salmela-Aro, (&) Niemivirta, 2011; Vansteenkiste, Soenens, Sierens, Luyckx, (&) Lens, 2009) have identified distinct learning profiles across varying student populations. Using a person-centered approach, I used model-based cluster analysis methods (Gan, Ma, (&) Wu, 2007) to organize students into distinct groups. From this analysis, I identified five distinct learning profiles in the population of physics students, similar to those found in previous research. In addition, student outcome information was gathered from both UCF and GSU. Conceptual inventory responses were gathered at both institutions, and attitudinal survey results and course grades were gathered at UCF. No student outcome data was gathered at GW; thus, GW is represented in analyses involving information compiled solely from the SCS, but GW is not represented in analyses involving student outcome information. Then, I use Automatic Linear Modeling, an application of multiple linear regression modeling (IBM, 2012, 2013), to identify which demographic variables (including the identified learning profiles) are the most influential in predicting student outcomes, such as scores on the Force Concept Inventory (FCI), the Conceptual Survey of Electricity and Magnetism (CSEM), and the Colorado Learning Attitudes about Sciences Survey (CLASS), both pre- and post-instruction. Modeling is conducted on the entire available dataset as a whole and is also conducted with the data disaggregated by institution in order to identify any differential effects that student characteristics may have at predicting student success at the different institutions. In addition, instructors teaching algebra-based, studio-mode introductory physics courses are interviewed about what makes students successful in order to better understand what instructors perceive is important for students to excel in their physics courses. Furthermore, student survey takers were interviewed to help verify their study strategies and motivations as measured by the SCS.The above analysis provides evidence that, on average, gaps in student understanding exist based on several demographic characteristics, such a gender, ethnicity, high school physics experience, and SAT Math score, and these results are generally consistent with those found in the literature. Disaggregation by institution reveals that differential effects from demographic variables exist; thus, similar groups of students at separate institutions attain different student outcomes. Overall, this is an undesirable observation, as the physics education research community strives to reduce such inequity in physics classrooms; however, identification of specific inequities and gaps in learning will help to inform further research investigations. Research should continue in the form of in-depth investigations into how individual instructors teach algebra-based studio-mode introductory physics courses, focusing on instructors' approaches to the studio-mode of instruction and uses of active learning techniques. Also, investigation of instructor awareness of demographic-driven gaps in student understanding would give insight into if and how instructors may be attempting to better understand the needs of different students. In addition, where a wide range of demographic data are available, I encourage institutions to conduct similar analyses as those presented here in order to identify any gaps in student understanding and place them in their institutional contexts for comparisons to other universities. Furthermore, as a result of my work, I find the identified learning profiles to have a significant association with students' attitudes toward physics, as measured by the CLASS questionnaire, both pre- and post-instruction. This relationship between learning profile and CLASS Pre-score is one that can help give instructors practical insight into students' study strategies and motivations at the very beginning of the physics course. By possessing knowledge of which students do and do not possess adaptive learning strategies early on, instructors can better optimize initial student groups by considering results of student outcome measures, adjust lesson plans, and assess students' needs accordingly.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFE0006376, ucf:51515
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006376
- Title
- Internal Degrees of Freedom and Spin Transitions in Single Molecule Magnets.
- Creator
-
Atkinson, James, Del Barco, Enrique, Chen, Bo, Mucciolo, Eduardo, Luis, Fernando, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This thesis covers a range of work detailing the transitions between spin eigenstates in molecular magnet systems. Broadly speaking, these transitions can be divided into two kinds: Those that involve a the tunneling of spin through a potential barrier to a resonant state on the other side, a phenomenon known as quantum tunneling of magnetization, and those that occur through the absorption or emission of a photon. In this latter case, the energy of the photon must match the difference...
Show moreThis thesis covers a range of work detailing the transitions between spin eigenstates in molecular magnet systems. Broadly speaking, these transitions can be divided into two kinds: Those that involve a the tunneling of spin through a potential barrier to a resonant state on the other side, a phenomenon known as quantum tunneling of magnetization, and those that occur through the absorption or emission of a photon. In this latter case, the energy of the photon must match the difference between two eigenstates with a difference in angular momentum of ?. We will detail research performed on single molecule magnets, a class of systems that has established itself as an exemplar of higher-order spin interaction. Specifically, we will present the results of studies focused on two Manganese based systems, both of which represent good examples of single molecule magnet behavior. By performing magnetization measurements below the temperature threshold where these systems' polarizations become hysteretic, we find that the precise form of the observed resonant tunneling features (which includes evidence for strong interference of geometric phase a.k.a. Berry phase) can be related to the specifics of the intramolecular interaction. We have analyzed our results using the (")giant spin(") model (which approximates the system as a single spin) as well as with a (")multi-spin(") method which considers all interactions between the ions in the molecular core. We will also discuss the results of measurements performed on a crystalline sample under stress (uniaxial pressure). The data has been analyzed in a framework in which a physical distortion is modelled as a modification of the molecular anisotropy, with different directions of applied stress represented as changes to different parameters governing the molecular energy landscape. This analysis includes simulation of the magnetic relaxation through a master equation approach to the spin-phonon interaction.Finally, our discussion will outline efforts toward understanding the coherent behavior of spin systems. The (")weak(") and (")strong(") coupling between a photon and spin represent two regimes of an interaction by which the information within a spin can be accessed and manipulated. We will discuss the challenges involved in exploring these regimes, both from a theoretical and experimental standpoint. The purpose of this experiment dovetails with those outlined above in attempting to form an intimate basis of knowledge describing the universal relationships to spin at the most fundamental level.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFE0006524, ucf:51381
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006524
- Title
- Examining the role of cardiovascular and cognitive fitness in goal-directed aiming across the lifespan.
- Creator
-
Rupp, Michael, Smither, Janan, Mouloua, Mustapha, Mcconnell, Daniel, Kincaid, John, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Older adults experience more difficulties completing goal directed movements than younger adults. The reasons for this have not been completely elucidated within the research lit-erature; however, it is thought that age related movement differences are due to at least one of three possible reasons. The current study investigated the influence of these three hypotheses: (1) biomechanical changes (limbs, joints, or muscles), (2) sensory feedback processing ability, or (3) differences in overall...
Show moreOlder adults experience more difficulties completing goal directed movements than younger adults. The reasons for this have not been completely elucidated within the research lit-erature; however, it is thought that age related movement differences are due to at least one of three possible reasons. The current study investigated the influence of these three hypotheses: (1) biomechanical changes (limbs, joints, or muscles), (2) sensory feedback processing ability, or (3) differences in overall movement strategy on movement kinematics. Additionally, physical activi-ty is known to improve both physical and cognitive functioning and staying cognitively active may also attenuate age-related declines in cognitive ability; thus the current study also examined the impact of physical and mental fitness on movement performance across the lifespan. Both active and sedentary young and old adults completed different experimental conditions to de-termine how biomechanical ability, sensory processing ability, and individual differences impact different kinematic aspects of movement performance. Participants completed two different Fitts' pointing tasks where difficulty was manipulated by either increasing biomechanical effort and/or amount of feedback processing needed to complete each movement. Results indicated that distance impacted movement more than width for all participants indicated by a greater ID-MT slope. While increasing age was associated with an increases slope, the larger finding was that age increased the overall time. Thus, it was concluded that distance and width constraints are processed by similar processes regardless of age, but these processes slow with age. Cardio-vascular fitness attenuated declines in the distance condition while mental fitness attenuated those in the width condition. Further supporting a theory of differential movement constraints.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006787, ucf:51827
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006787
- Title
- High flux isolated attosecond pulse generation.
- Creator
-
Wu, Yi, Chang, Zenghu, Richardson, Martin, Christodoulides, Demetrios, Rahman, Talat, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This thesis outlines the high intensity tabletop attosecond extreme ultraviolet laser source at the Institute for the Frontier of Attosecond Science and Technology Laboratory.First, a unique Ti:Sapphire chirped pulse amplifier laser system that delivers 14 fs pulses with 300 mJ energy at a 10 Hz repetition rate was designed and built. The broadband spectrum extending from 700 nm to 900 nm was obtained by seeding a two stage Ti:Sapphire chirped pulse power amplifier with mJ-level white light...
Show moreThis thesis outlines the high intensity tabletop attosecond extreme ultraviolet laser source at the Institute for the Frontier of Attosecond Science and Technology Laboratory.First, a unique Ti:Sapphire chirped pulse amplifier laser system that delivers 14 fs pulses with 300 mJ energy at a 10 Hz repetition rate was designed and built. The broadband spectrum extending from 700 nm to 900 nm was obtained by seeding a two stage Ti:Sapphire chirped pulse power amplifier with mJ-level white light pulses from a gas filled hollow core fiber. It is the highest energy level ever achieved by a broadband pulse in a chirped pulse amplifier up to the current date.Second, using this laser as a driving laser source, the generalized double optical gating method is employed to generate isolated attosecond pulses. Detailed gate width analysis of the ellipticity dependent pulse were performed. Calculation of electron light interaction dynamics on the atomic level was carried out to demonstrate the mechanism of isolated pulse generation.Third, a complete diagnostic apparatus was built to extract and analyze the generated attosecond pulse in spectral domain. The result confirms that an extreme ultraviolet super continuum supporting 230 as isolated attosecond pulses at 35 eV was generated using the generalized double optical gating technique. The extreme ultraviolet pulse energy was ~100 nJ at the exit of the argon gas target.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0005075, ucf:49949
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005075
- Title
- The Effects of 6-weeks of Resistance Training on the Neuromuscular Fatigue Threshold in Older Adults.
- Creator
-
Emerson, Nadia, Stout, Jeffrey, Hoffman, Jay, Fragala, Maren, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Age-related deficits in muscle mass, strength, and function place an increased burden of work on existing skeletal muscle and may lead to early onset of neuromuscular fatigue (NMF) during activities of daily living. Resistance exercise (RE) is the proven method for improving neuromuscular function in healthy older adults. PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of 6 weeks of RE on the NMF threshold as well as strength and functional performance in older adults. METHODS: Twenty-four older adults...
Show moreAge-related deficits in muscle mass, strength, and function place an increased burden of work on existing skeletal muscle and may lead to early onset of neuromuscular fatigue (NMF) during activities of daily living. Resistance exercise (RE) is the proven method for improving neuromuscular function in healthy older adults. PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of 6 weeks of RE on the NMF threshold as well as strength and functional performance in older adults. METHODS: Twenty-four older adults were randomly assigned to 6 weeks of RE (EXE; n = 12; age 72 (&)#177; 6.3 y; BMI 28.4 kg/m2) or control (CONT; n = 12; age 70.3 (&)#177; 5.6 y; BMI 27.6 kg/m2). Body fat percent (BF%), lean mass (LM), and fat mass (FM) were measured using DEXA and participants performed a discontinuous cycle ergometer test, physical working capacity at fatigue threshold (PWCFT), to determine the onset of NMF. Functional performance was assessed by time to complete 5 chair rises (CHAIR) and walk an 8-foot course (WALK). Lower body strength was assessed by predicted 1-RM leg extension (1RM). Two-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA; time [PRE, POST] x group [EXE and CONT]) and magnitude based inferences were used to compare dependent variables. RESULTS: RE significantly increased 1RM (35%; p = 0.001) and CHAIR (20%; p = 0.047). RE had a likely beneficial effect on WALK (15%) and a possibly beneficial effect on PWCFT (14%). There were no significant changes to LM or FM, however, women in EXE significantly decreased BF% (p = 0.020). CONCLUSION: Results suggest that RE improves measures of strength and functional performance and possibly the onset of NMF in older adults.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004679, ucf:49876
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004679
- Title
- Light Matter Interaction in Single Molecule Magnets.
- Creator
-
Cebulka, Rebecca, Del Barco, Enrique, Klemm, Richard, Mucciolo, Eduardo, Luis, Fernando, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This dissertation includes a series of experimental realizations which focus on studying the coupling between photons and single-molecule magnets (SMMs) in both the weak and strong coupling regimes. In the weak coupling regime, the aim is to achieve coherent control over the time evolution of the spin of SMMs while applying rapid microwave pulses at sub-Kelvin temperatures, where polarization of the spin bath may be achieved without large magnetic fields, allowing the suppression of dipolar...
Show moreThis dissertation includes a series of experimental realizations which focus on studying the coupling between photons and single-molecule magnets (SMMs) in both the weak and strong coupling regimes. In the weak coupling regime, the aim is to achieve coherent control over the time evolution of the spin of SMMs while applying rapid microwave pulses at sub-Kelvin temperatures, where polarization of the spin bath may be achieved without large magnetic fields, allowing the suppression of dipolar dephasing. The continuing results of this experiment will be to provide a window into fundamental sources of decoherence in single-crystal SMMs in an energy range not thoroughly investigated. We expect that these conditions would allow us to study the quantum dynamics of the spins as governed by the intrinsic molecular magnetic anisotropy, which should give rise to non-well-defined Rabi oscillations of the spin state, including metastable precessional spin states. In the strong coupling regime, high quality factor superconducting CPW resonators have been designed and fabricated to investigate the vacuum Rabi splitting between a photon and the SMM spin. The proposed setup will permit measurements of coherent collective coupling between molecular spins and a low number of photons, ideally down to a single photon. This experiment may ultimately provide the opportunity for reaching the strong coupling regime with a single spin. Finally, this thesis also documents a research study into the impact of service-learning methodology on students' depth of learning and critical thinking skills during a novel nanoscale science and technology course offered in the UCF Physics Dept. The overall learning of students was assessed and results clearly showed improvement in both multiple choice pre/post-tests and critical reflection papers. We associate this improvement at least partially to the service-learning experience.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007442, ucf:52728
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007442
- Title
- Growing Health: Community Gardens and their Effects on Diet, Physical and Mental Health and Community.
- Creator
-
Hanson, Brittany, Wright, James, Gay, David, Jasinski, Jana, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Recently, research on community gardens and their benefits to health and community has become very popular. However, this influx of research has failed to investigate challenges to successful community gardening. Some articles examine issues between community gardeners and the land owners, but other than these conflicts community garden challenges, like lack of participation and quality leadership, have not been discussed in the literature (Draper and Freedman, 2010). To allow future gardens...
Show moreRecently, research on community gardens and their benefits to health and community has become very popular. However, this influx of research has failed to investigate challenges to successful community gardening. Some articles examine issues between community gardeners and the land owners, but other than these conflicts community garden challenges, like lack of participation and quality leadership, have not been discussed in the literature (Draper and Freedman, 2010). To allow future gardens to be as successful as possible it is important to identify potential obstacles. Additionally, it is just as important to continue to examine possible benefits, for example, physical activity and health benefits of community gardening and the breadth of community issues possibly addressed by community gardeners. Continuing to research on community will allow for more successful gardens and encourage funding for these programs. This study examines how food insecurity, health and community cohesion issues can be affected by community gardens in Central Florida. It also investigates challenges community gardens often face. To do this I conducted structured interviews with community gardeners and semi-structured interviews with community garden leaders at several gardens throughout Orange County, Florida. The results show that community gardens have several benefits including increased consumption of fresh produce, improved physical activity, mental health and community cohesion. However, gardens are not without difficulties. About a third of the gardeners and the majority of the leaders said that lack of participation was a challenge they faced.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFE0004382, ucf:49405
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004382
- Title
- IMPROVED PHYSIOLOGY AND PSYCHOSOCIAL WELL-BEING FOR CHILDREN WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES THROUGH VIRTUAL REALITY IMMERSION.
- Creator
-
Fralish, Bethany D, Nickels, Megan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this case study was to examine the physiological and psychosocial effects of an immersive virtual reality (VR) system in a female, young adult with right side paralysis following a left hemisphere brain bleed in order to determine the usefulness of immersive VR for children with physical disabilities, in particular, cerebral palsy (CP). The current study consisted of six sessions over a span of three weeks, with each session lasting approximately 45 minutes. Physiological...
Show moreThe purpose of this case study was to examine the physiological and psychosocial effects of an immersive virtual reality (VR) system in a female, young adult with right side paralysis following a left hemisphere brain bleed in order to determine the usefulness of immersive VR for children with physical disabilities, in particular, cerebral palsy (CP). The current study consisted of six sessions over a span of three weeks, with each session lasting approximately 45 minutes. Physiological factors (upper body mobility, heart rate variability) were assessed via a hand use questionnaire and a heart rate monitor, while psychosocial factors (e.g. positive mood) were assessed through post-session debriefing discussions with the participant. All measures were completed at each of the six VR sessions, with the exception of the hand use questionnaire, which was administered at baseline, and post-intervention. The VR programs selected were specifically chosen to engage upper body and arm movements. Descriptive analyses and coding of interviews were conducted to examine changes throughout the study sessions. The participant reported an increase in hand mobility and psychosocial well-being, such as improvement in mood, as a result of her participation in the VR sessions. The results of the current study suggest that the use of movement-specific VR programs may be beneficial to children with physical disabilities and CP, although due to the single-subject design of the study, further research is warranted.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000255, ucf:46028
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000255
- Title
- EXPLORING BARRIERS AND CONSEQUENCES RELATED TO NURSES REPORTING CHILD ABUSE.
- Creator
-
Devkota, Asmita, Loerzel, Victoria, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Background: Child abuse is a pervasive and serious problem in the United States. Over 3 million children are the victims of some kind of physical assault by adults. Due to their prolonged contact with children and opportunity to report, nurses should be trained to accurately assess, identify, and manage cases of child abuse. The purpose of this study was to examine student's experiences with Child Protective Services, and explore their confidence and attitudes related to identifying and...
Show moreBackground: Child abuse is a pervasive and serious problem in the United States. Over 3 million children are the victims of some kind of physical assault by adults. Due to their prolonged contact with children and opportunity to report, nurses should be trained to accurately assess, identify, and manage cases of child abuse. The purpose of this study was to examine student's experiences with Child Protective Services, and explore their confidence and attitudes related to identifying and reporting child abuse. Factors associated with non-reporting were identified. Methodology: This was an exploratory, descriptive study. Students enrolled in the online Nursing Research course, NUR 3165, were asked to participate. Forty-four RN to BSN and Concurrent students completed the 27 questions survey on Qualtrics. It included demographic questions, questions regarding the participant's beliefs about child abuse, The Child Abuse Reporting, Attitude and Experience Survey, and two vignettes. Survey data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: There were total of 44 (6 males and 38 females) students who completed the survey; most of them were between the age of 20-24. Fourteen were RN to BSN students who have practiced nursing for more than a year and 30 were concurrent nursing students who are still working on their ASN degree. The results showed that nursing students had positive experiences with CPS and indicated that they had confidence in identifying child abuse. However, students felt that they have not received adequate professional education in this field. Many reported never receiving training regarding child abuse and 84.1% indicated never reporting a suspected case to CPS. When presented with vignettes describing scenarios related to abuse, participants were not able to positively identify cases of abuse versus cases that were ambiguous. Discussion: Nurses are mandatory child abuse reporters in Florida. Many nursing students indicated that they have never reported suspected cases of child abuse to CPS and some of the reasons for this could be the lack of experience, and proper training and education on child abuse. Regardless of the reason, nursing students should be given adequate education to improve their confidence and attitude in identification and reporting of child abuse cases. Nursing schools could focus on including more hands on activity such as case studies and simulation to improve knowledge. Employers could try to utilize protocols to help identify child abuse.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000208, ucf:45966
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000208
