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- Title
- TO CATCH A TERRORIST: THE IMPROPER USE OF PROFILING IN U.S. POST-9/11 COUNTERTERRORISM.
- Creator
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Crawford, Kamillia, Ravich, Timothy M., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The attacks of September 11, 2001 (9/11) caused thousands of deaths, national and global panic, and immediate action by the federal government to protect the borders of the United States of America (USA) from terrorism. In response to these attacks, the United States (U.S.) government enacted laws for law enforcement agencies to protect against terrorist activities. Law enforcement agencies are effective in combating terrorism, but their measures contain a major flaw - the improper use of...
Show moreThe attacks of September 11, 2001 (9/11) caused thousands of deaths, national and global panic, and immediate action by the federal government to protect the borders of the United States of America (USA) from terrorism. In response to these attacks, the United States (U.S.) government enacted laws for law enforcement agencies to protect against terrorist activities. Law enforcement agencies are effective in combating terrorism, but their measures contain a major flaw - the improper use of race in profiling to address national security and public safety concerns. Racial profiling is an ineffective measure for preventing terrorism. There are solutions to correct this flaw through reconstructing training and implementing policies for all law enforcement agencies. The intent of this thesis is to discuss the history and the effectiveness of profiling in U.S. post-9/11 counterterrorism through theoretical research of peer-reviewed journals and articles, relevant laws, and United States Supreme Court cases to offer solutions to the problems racial profiling presents. The discussion will generate a search for new ways law enforcement agencies could conduct daily counterterrorism operations.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000057, ucf:45534
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000057
- Title
- MICROENVIRONMENT CHANGES IN THE PANCREATIC STROMA INDUCED BY INFLAMMATION.
- Creator
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Cline, Kathryn, Altomare, Deborah A., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Pancreatic cancer is the product of microenvironment alterations which emerge from inflammatory signaling and progress to more devastating cases such as Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC). PDAC is extremely aggressive with a statistical five-year survival rate of merely 3%-5%, and is more than relevant to cancer research being that it is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US. Unfortunately pancreatic cancer is often unnoticed until reaching its hardly treatable end...
Show morePancreatic cancer is the product of microenvironment alterations which emerge from inflammatory signaling and progress to more devastating cases such as Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC). PDAC is extremely aggressive with a statistical five-year survival rate of merely 3%-5%, and is more than relevant to cancer research being that it is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US. Unfortunately pancreatic cancer is often unnoticed until reaching its hardly treatable end stages, which perpetuates the low survival rate. The onset of PDAC may be facilitated by the activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), which secrete collagen and markedly contribute to tissue fibrosis. Inflammatory factors and activation of PSCs are hallmarks of pancreatitis and could increase occurrence rates of pancreatic cancer. The purpose of this thesis is to elucidate inflammatory signaling patterns starting with the onset of acute pancreatitis and through future studies of the more damaging states of chronic pancreatitis and cancer progression. Through the induction of acute pancreatitis in oncogenic and wild type mouse models and evaluating cytokine expression levels via RT-PCR a link between inflammatory signaling and disease state progression will be delineated. This model utilizes mice with mutant KRas, a gene activated in nearly all PDAC incidences, and constitutively active Akt, an oncogene activated in nearly all cancers. Preliminary results indicate that when experimentally inducing pancreatitis in mice predisposed to pancreatic cancer tissue remodeling and leukocyte infiltration is observed as a result of cytokine expression. Furthermore, macrophage and neutrophil stains are positive with one round of cerulein injections proving that acute inflammation is induced by these methods. Pancreatitis is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer which can be caused by environmental factors including smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity. By understanding the mechanism by which inflammation occurs and the cytokine signaling involved we can attempt inhibit tumor-promoting signaling pathways in the pancreas stroma.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000104, ucf:45535
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000104
- Title
- VITAMIN D CLINICAL RELEVANCE IN THE RECOVERY FROM TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY AMONG THE MILITARY POPULATION.
- Creator
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Colon, Yuisa M., Chase, Susan K., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) still remains a difficult disorder to treat. TBI has been associated to chronic neuroinflammation and a high risk for neurodegenerative disorders. Since 2001 between ten to twenty percent of all deployed military members have suffered a combat-related TBI. Nearly twenty to thirty percent of those will experience chronic cognitive, behavioral and somatic symptoms after suffering a TBI. Methods: The objective of this review is to evaluate current...
Show moreBackground: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) still remains a difficult disorder to treat. TBI has been associated to chronic neuroinflammation and a high risk for neurodegenerative disorders. Since 2001 between ten to twenty percent of all deployed military members have suffered a combat-related TBI. Nearly twenty to thirty percent of those will experience chronic cognitive, behavioral and somatic symptoms after suffering a TBI. Methods: The objective of this review is to evaluate current literature examining vitamin D as a neurosteroid with protective properties and its clinical relevance after traumatic brain injury. Vitamin D is known to participate in neurobiological processes and genomic regulation in the brain. Clinical and laboratory findings support that vitamin D modulates the immune responses to trauma, diminishes oxidative and toxic damage, and inhibiting activation and progression of the neuroinflammation. Inadequate levels of vitamin D have been identified as a common risk factor for many neurological disorders and have been linked to poorer recovery. Results: This review found compelling evidence to support that the pathology of TBI is closely associated with neuroprotective mechanisms of vitamin D. Low vitamin D levels are common among US active duty military and veterans. The findings strongly suggest that optimizing vitamin D prior to injury could improve the recovery for military members after experiencing a TBI. Vitamin D ameliorates brain damage by modulating neuroinflammation, improving cell survival and down-regulating mechanisms involved in the progression of cell damage following a TBI. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the effects of vitamin D optimization in TBI outcomes.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000097, ucf:45536
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000097
- Title
- EFFECTS OF PROBIOTICS ON THE REDUCTION IN INCIDENCE OF NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS IN PREMATURE ([less than]37 WEEKS GESTATION) NEONATES.
- Creator
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Cox, Makenzie, Covelli, Maureen, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Problem: Necrotizing Enerocolitis (NEC) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in neonatal intensive care units (NICU), affecting 7% to 14% of premature neonates weighing less than 1500g (Lin et al., 2008). Healthcare costs for the treatment of NEC account for roughly 20% of the 5 billion dollars spent on infants in the NICU annually (Gephart, McGrath, Effken and Halpern, 2012). Nutritional supplements, such as probiotics, may be used prophylactically to prevent NEC in this...
Show moreProblem: Necrotizing Enerocolitis (NEC) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in neonatal intensive care units (NICU), affecting 7% to 14% of premature neonates weighing less than 1500g (Lin et al., 2008). Healthcare costs for the treatment of NEC account for roughly 20% of the 5 billion dollars spent on infants in the NICU annually (Gephart, McGrath, Effken and Halpern, 2012). Nutritional supplements, such as probiotics, may be used prophylactically to prevent NEC in this high-risk population. Objective: A literature review was performed to examine which strains of probiotics show the most potential in reducing the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis. Method: A literature review was performed using CINAHL, Science Citation Index, Science Direct, Medline, Academic One file, PsychINFO, and PUBMED databases. Key words included enterocolitis, Necrotizing*/PC OR NEC* AND probiotics*. After applying exclusion criteria, 9 articles remained for this review. Results: A variety of probiotic strains used to reduce the incidence of NEC were identified, along with inconsistent times of initiation, number of colony forming units and length of treatment. The most commonly studied probiotic strains include Lactobacillus species, Bifidobacterium species, and Saccharomyces species. After detailed analysis, it appears that a combination of Bifidobacterium species and Lactobacillus species reduce the incidence of NEC from an 8% (Fern�ndez-Carrocera et. al, 2013) reduction up to 100% reduction in the incidence of NEC (Braga, Pontes da Silva, Cabral de Lira, and Lima, 2011). These two species, when combined, were more successful when compared to Saccharomyces species or Lactobacillus species alone. Conclusion: Although there is positive support for the proactive use of probiotics for the reduction of the incidence of NEC in premature neonates, the inconsistencies between studies are a barrier for determination of a specific treatment recommendation. Although the combination of Bifidobacterium species and Lactobacillus species has been shown to have an impact on the reduction of NEC incidence, the research inconsistencies provide a barrier to generalizations for treatment. Additional research that focus on Bifidobactrium species in combination with Lactobacillus species is needed. Furthermore, the use of probiotics as a preventative treatment for NEC has not been thoroughly researched in extremely premature infant populations (gestation). Therefore, although the results are promising, further research is needed before this can be determined as a safe preventative method. The current questions remaining include: when prophylactic treatment should be initiated, how long prophylactic treatment should last, the number of colony forming units to be administered, and what is the long-term impact of probiotic administration on the normal gut flora, if any.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000055, ucf:45537
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000055
- Title
- DETERMINING FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE SMOOTH CORDGRASS (SPARTINA ALTERNIFLORA LOISEL) TRANSPLANT SUCCESS IN COMMUNITY-BASED LIVING SHORELINE PROJECTS.
- Creator
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Carrion, Steven A, Walters, Linda J., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Efforts to mitigate shoreline erosion through living shoreline methods along the USA Atlantic seaboard have often incorporated the cultivation and transplantation of smooth cordgrass, Spartina alterniflora. Assessments of these transplants at several sites in the Indian River Lagoon have shown that survival is variable after a year (survival: 10-93%). Lower survival has been attributed to environmental variables such as dislodgement by wave energy, and transplant shock due to salinity changes...
Show moreEfforts to mitigate shoreline erosion through living shoreline methods along the USA Atlantic seaboard have often incorporated the cultivation and transplantation of smooth cordgrass, Spartina alterniflora. Assessments of these transplants at several sites in the Indian River Lagoon have shown that survival is variable after a year (survival: 10-93%). Lower survival has been attributed to environmental variables such as dislodgement by wave energy, and transplant shock due to salinity changes from cultivation to estuarine conditions. To improve living shoreline projects, we examined the effects of cultivation salinity (0 ppt, 15ppt) on transplantation success, and the success of anchoring plants to biodegradable mats (Jute mesh, 5 individuals per 50 cm2) and utilizing oyster bags as breakwaters in facilitating reestablishment of new transplants. Spartina alterniflora individuals were grown under salinity treatments for 20 weeks; plants grown in 15 ppt produced new shoots with significantly greater heights than those grown in freshwater. The plants were then transplanted to two sites in the IRL, and monitored after four weeks. After four weeks there was a greater net increase in stem density and larger decrease in plant height for plants grown in 15 ppt. Jute-mesh mats and oyster bags did not impact growth or survival of transplants. Low-saline (15 ppt) conditions increased shoot growth of the project by 50% in four weeks at a cost of 30 cents per additional shoot produced by an individual. Longer-term monitoring will determine if benefits persist or decrease over time, and if the cost is justified by the benefits.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000068, ucf:45538
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000068
- Title
- EXPLORING THE ART OF NURSING AND ITS INFLUENCE ON PATIENT SATISFACTION IN ACUTE CARE SETTINGS.
- Creator
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Tirado, Enid, Andrews, Diane, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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?Nursing is a trusted profession aimed at delivering quality, patient-centered care perceived by patients as caring and satisfactory. While empiric care components are measurable as associated with clinical outcomes, patients' perceptions of care are increasingly important in determining satisfaction with the patient care experience. Not clearly defined, nor empirically measurable, the "art" of nursing is taking on increasing importance as a component of satisfaction with the patient...
Show more?Nursing is a trusted profession aimed at delivering quality, patient-centered care perceived by patients as caring and satisfactory. While empiric care components are measurable as associated with clinical outcomes, patients' perceptions of care are increasingly important in determining satisfaction with the patient care experience. Not clearly defined, nor empirically measurable, the "art" of nursing is taking on increasing importance as a component of satisfaction with the patient experience. The purpose of this integrative literature review was to review the literature in order to find common themes influencing determination of the art of nursing on patient satisfaction in acute care settings. Fourteen studies were selected and reviewed after a search of CINAHL Plus with Full Text, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, ERIC, MEDLINE, PsycARTICLES, and PsycINFOCINAHL databases. Four themes that emerged: building a relationship with the patient; conducting a thorough assessment of the patient; meaningful communication with the patient, and availability of nurses for their patients. The findings suggest that the art of nursing, as grounded in the demonstration of nursing care behaviors, is a component of patients' satisfaction with the provision of care. This evidence-based knowledge is transferable to efforts in modifying nursing practices that exemplify patient-centered care.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000092, ucf:45539
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000092
- Title
- IDENTITY DEVELOPMENT AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION PREJUDICE.
- Creator
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Smith, Cassandra, Berman, Steven L., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This study examined the relationships among psychological variables of sexual prejudice, psychological adjustment, and identity development. It was hypothesized that sexual orientation prejudice would be negatively related to psychological adjustment. It was further hypothesized that identity formation would moderate the relationship between sexual orientation prejudice and psychological adjustment. Participants were 200 college students, ages ranged from 18-48 (M = 21.96, SD = 4.87). Sexual...
Show moreThis study examined the relationships among psychological variables of sexual prejudice, psychological adjustment, and identity development. It was hypothesized that sexual orientation prejudice would be negatively related to psychological adjustment. It was further hypothesized that identity formation would moderate the relationship between sexual orientation prejudice and psychological adjustment. Participants were 200 college students, ages ranged from 18-48 (M = 21.96, SD = 4.87). Sexual orientation for the participants included self-identified labels of Heterosexual (88.5%), Homosexual (6.5%), Bisexual (3.5%), Pansexual (1%), and Demisexual (0.5%). Survey data were collected through a Psychology Research Experience website (SONA). Results revealed a negative correlation between Heterophobia, and Life Satisfaction. However, no statistically significant correlation was found between Homophobia and Life Satisfaction. Heterophobia (but not Homophobia) was significantly correlated with identity Exploration in Depth and Identification with Commitment. The measure of sexual adjustment revealed both Heterophobia and Homophobia positively correlated with Sexual Anxiety and Sexual Fear. The identity variables (Sexual Exploration and Sexual Commitment) were found to be related to sexual orientation prejudice. The moderator hypothesis was partially supported in that two moderator variables significantly interacted with sexual orientation prejudice (Heterophobia) and psychological adjustment (Sexual Anxiety and Sexual Fear). However, more research is needed to further elucidate the intricate relationships among psychological variables of sexual orientation prejudice, psychological adjustment, and identity development.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000099, ucf:45540
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000099
- 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
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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
- GENERATION RATED X: PERSONALITY TRAITS, SEXUAL ATTITUDES, AND THE EFFECTS OF SEXUALLY EXPLICIT MEDIA ON ATTRACTION AMONG MEN.
- Creator
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Eckstein, H. Christopher, White, Grace, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Previous research has indicated that exposure to pornography, or sexually explicit media (SEM), can lead married men to express a stronger desire for sexual intimacy (Staley & Prause, 2013). However, SEM exposure has also resulted in decreased physical attractiveness ratings among men evaluating their spouses (Kenrick, et al., 1989). Only a small amount of research has investigated the effects of SEM on attraction among unmarried males. The current study examined the effects of SEM in a...
Show morePrevious research has indicated that exposure to pornography, or sexually explicit media (SEM), can lead married men to express a stronger desire for sexual intimacy (Staley & Prause, 2013). However, SEM exposure has also resulted in decreased physical attractiveness ratings among men evaluating their spouses (Kenrick, et al., 1989). Only a small amount of research has investigated the effects of SEM on attraction among unmarried males. The current study examined the effects of SEM in a sample of 108 heterosexual, undergraduate males. Participants evaluated pictures of 15 unknown women�s faces for physical attractiveness. They were then exposed to five minutes of SEM, after which they re-evaluated the same 15 faces for attractiveness. This study also examined the association between Big Five personality traits and self-reported sexual attitudes. The relations between sexual attitudes and the effects of SEM exposure were also explored. Counter to the expected hypothesis, results indicated an increase in attractiveness ratings after SEM exposure, demonstrating a sensitization rather than a desensitization effect on attraction. The Big Five Extraversion trait significantly predicted increases in attractiveness ratings after SEM exposure. Personality was also a significant predictor of sexual attitudes in relation to the socio-sexual orientation facets of behavior and attitude, which constitute the number of casual and changing sex partners and attitudes towards uncommitted sex, respectively. Additional research is necessary to replicate and confirm novel findings in this study.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000071, ucf:45542
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000071
- Title
- THE STUDY OF THE ADVERSE EFFECTS OF CHILDHOOD MALTREATMENT.
- Creator
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Kennie, Katie A, Saunders, Steven, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This study explores the link between the presence of childhood trauma and adult criminal behavior. In this study, four distinct categories of childhood trauma (physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, and neglect) were examined. In addition, this study conducts a comparative analysis of the United States crime rate with that of Switzerland and Japan. This study examines and compares the policies utilized in ensuring the protection of child welfare. The ultimate goal is to provide...
Show moreThis study explores the link between the presence of childhood trauma and adult criminal behavior. In this study, four distinct categories of childhood trauma (physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, and neglect) were examined. In addition, this study conducts a comparative analysis of the United States crime rate with that of Switzerland and Japan. This study examines and compares the policies utilized in ensuring the protection of child welfare. The ultimate goal is to provide research which may build a foundation that will assist in creating and improving policies which will ensure a child's psychological health.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000081, ucf:45543
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000081
- Title
- PHARMACOGENOMIC MANAGEMENT OF FAMILIAL HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE.
- Creator
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Skibo, Brian V., Bushy, Angeline, Kubiet, Leslee, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this thesis is to examine familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and emerging pharmacogenomics therapies that propose to lower serum low density lipid (LDL) levels. The search of various data bases resulted in nine research articles being selected for review. Syntheses of the articles suggest emerging phamacogenomic drug therapy can improve treatment outcomes for individuals with a diagnosis of FH. The Human Genome Project (HGP) has had far reaching applications for genomic...
Show moreThe purpose of this thesis is to examine familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and emerging pharmacogenomics therapies that propose to lower serum low density lipid (LDL) levels. The search of various data bases resulted in nine research articles being selected for review. Syntheses of the articles suggest emerging phamacogenomic drug therapy can improve treatment outcomes for individuals with a diagnosis of FH. The Human Genome Project (HGP) has had far reaching applications for genomic technologies and pharmacagenomic interventions, tailored to human conditions associated with select genomic traits. Synthesis of nine research articles demonstrate that little is known on the topic and reveals extensive gaps in the evidence. This thesis concludes with implications for nursing education, practice, policy and research along with limitations are noted.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000076, ucf:45544
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000076
- Title
- DOSING ACCURACY WHEN ADMINISTERING ORAL MEDICATIONS.
- Creator
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Hughes, Chelsea, Allred, Kelly, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Inaccurate dosing of children's liquid medication is a major problem that causes adverse effects for children every year. In order to prevent these errors, education for at risk parents is essential. A survey and observational study was done in order to identify parents/caregivers who make dosing errors when measuring out liquid medication for their children. A total of 25 parents/caregivers with children admitted to Arnold Palmer Hospital were included in this study. Study participants...
Show moreInaccurate dosing of children's liquid medication is a major problem that causes adverse effects for children every year. In order to prevent these errors, education for at risk parents is essential. A survey and observational study was done in order to identify parents/caregivers who make dosing errors when measuring out liquid medication for their children. A total of 25 parents/caregivers with children admitted to Arnold Palmer Hospital were included in this study. Study participants completed a survey that included demographic data as well as parenting experience. The parents were directly observed measuring a dose of corn syrup using Children's liquid Tylenol� dosing instructions. The research participants were offered a variety of common measuring devices and they chose the one they most often used at home. Data indicated a high incidence of dosing errors made by a variety of participants. Of the 25 research participants, 13 (52%) made an error greater than 20% when measuring out the dose based on the provided instructions and their child's weight. This data suggests nurses need to include dosing education for all parents at discharge. This study has shown that many parents are at risk for making errors when measuring medication. Effective discharge education on the importance of measuring medication accurately can prevent these errors and the adverse effects they cause.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000102, ucf:45545
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000102
- Title
- PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF BIRTHMOTHERS OF ADOPTED CHILDREN.
- Creator
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Wedlund, Bethany I, Carter, Shannon, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
A woman who has experienced an unintended pregnancy and chooses to place the child for adoption is known as a birthmother. When faced with an unintended pregnancy, women typically have three courses of action. They may choose to parent the child, terminate the pregnancy, or place the child for adoption. There is limited research on birthmothers themselves or societal perceptions of them. When it comes to societal perceptions of abortion, religiosity is a significant factor. Contrary to...
Show moreA woman who has experienced an unintended pregnancy and chooses to place the child for adoption is known as a birthmother. When faced with an unintended pregnancy, women typically have three courses of action. They may choose to parent the child, terminate the pregnancy, or place the child for adoption. There is limited research on birthmothers themselves or societal perceptions of them. When it comes to societal perceptions of abortion, religiosity is a significant factor. Contrary to popular belief, many of the women who choose to abort do so in order to preserve the lives of their families. Single mothers are judged as poor workers due to their devotion to their children, a viewpoint that is compounded if the mother is black. This indicates that race may also play a role in perceptions of birthmothers. This research aimed to discover public perceptions of birthmothers and test factors that might contribute to those perceptions namely, abortion opinions. This study utilized data collected from a previous study with an online survey of 501 students from a university population conducted in the spring of 2015. Survey questions were open ended, multiple choice, and Likert scale. This study discovered that opinions of birthmothers are largely positive and that opinions on abortion may have a link with opinions of birthmothers. The findings of this study are important because there is minimal research on birthmothers and it helps shed light on public perceptions of this marginalized group. Research has shown that many birthmothers experience a lack of social support that could be remedied from programming that helps these women cope within society and efforts to educate the public about them.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000060, ucf:45546
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000060
- Title
- EXPLORING ATTACHMENT BEHAVIORS IN URBAN MOTHERS AND THEIR INFANTS.
- Creator
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Rusoff, Brooke G., Culp, Anne, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Infants enter this world relying on caregivers to nurture and protect them. Through this reliance, infants develop an attachment to their caregivers, thus setting the stage for how a child comes to view the world and the people in it. This study sought to further explore attachment behaviors through observation of a voluntary parent education course offered through the Early Learning Coalition of Orange County. Data were collected three times over the course of the nine week program on four...
Show moreInfants enter this world relying on caregivers to nurture and protect them. Through this reliance, infants develop an attachment to their caregivers, thus setting the stage for how a child comes to view the world and the people in it. This study sought to further explore attachment behaviors through observation of a voluntary parent education course offered through the Early Learning Coalition of Orange County. Data were collected three times over the course of the nine week program on four mother-infant dyads. Across the three mothers who were present for at least two observations, negative behaviors decreased between the first and final observations; however, positive behaviors were observed, but less conclusive. The results of this study can be used to improve the current early intervention program, as well as those in the future.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000088, ucf:45547
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000088
- Title
- CORRECTING MEDICAID ENROLLMENT UNDERREPORTING BY THE CURRENT POPULATION SURVEY: A STOCHASTIC FRONTIER ANALYSIS.
- Creator
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Champion, Brachel R, Hofler, Richard A., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The Current Population Survey (CPS) is the most widely cited source for estimates on Medicaid enrollment. However, previous literature has shown the CPS underreports enrollment by 30-40% in comparison to state-level records. The question then is how to correct the Medicaid enrollment gap brought on by the CPS. Gross adjustments for the discrepancy may be made, but only if the true amount of enrollees is known. In years when administrative records are delayed or incomplete this is not possible...
Show moreThe Current Population Survey (CPS) is the most widely cited source for estimates on Medicaid enrollment. However, previous literature has shown the CPS underreports enrollment by 30-40% in comparison to state-level records. The question then is how to correct the Medicaid enrollment gap brought on by the CPS. Gross adjustments for the discrepancy may be made, but only if the true amount of enrollees is known. In years when administrative records are delayed or incomplete this is not possible. To date, the methods for correcting underreporting require access to the state-level data which is usually infeasible or unpublishable due to privacy issues. Redesigning the CPS questionnaire itself might alleviate a good part of the undercount but doing so is well beyond the scope of most researchers. A better correction would rely only on the CPS count of Medicaid enrollees so as to avoid privacy concerns and time delays. We propose using stochastic frontier analysis to shrink the gap between the CPS count of Medicaid enrollees and the state records by adjusting the CPS counts to be closer to the state records.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000046, ucf:45548
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000046
- Title
- SCREENING FOR ANTICANCER AGENTS TO INHIBIT MITOTIC KINASES AND PROLIFERATION OF METASTATIC PROSTATE CANCER CELLS.
- Creator
-
Nguyen, Khoa, Chakrabarti, Ratna, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Current treatments for prostate cancer (PCa) are marred with high relapse frequency and development of progressively aggressive cancers; developing new treatment options for PCa remains crucial. In this project, a series of synthetic compounds based on natural products will be screened to identify inhibitors for Aurora-A kinase (Aur-A). Aur-A facilitates centrosome separation and bipolar spindle formation during mitosis. Aur-A is overexpressed in metastatic PCa cells, and is a good candidate...
Show moreCurrent treatments for prostate cancer (PCa) are marred with high relapse frequency and development of progressively aggressive cancers; developing new treatment options for PCa remains crucial. In this project, a series of synthetic compounds based on natural products will be screened to identify inhibitors for Aurora-A kinase (Aur-A). Aur-A facilitates centrosome separation and bipolar spindle formation during mitosis. Aur-A is overexpressed in metastatic PCa cells, and is a good candidate for targeted therapies. Compound libraries are designed using natural compounds that contain simple structural elements as starting points for developing drug like libraries. High-throughput screening of these libraries will be used to identify potent antimitotic agents that selectively affect cancer cells but not normal cells. A combination of in vitro protein assays � quantifying protein activity � cell-based assays � measuring cell growth and proliferation � and cell-reporter assays � to determine which metabolic pathway the compound affects � were used to identify potential inhibitors. Through these methods, we have identified several compounds, with special consideration to thiazole piperazine compounds, to successfully inhibit proliferation of metastatic PCa cells.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000103, ucf:45549
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000103
- Title
- SUPERVISOR EXPECTATIONS, EVENT REPORTING, AND PATIENT SAFETY PERCEPTIONS: EXPLORING POTENTIAL MODERATORS AND MEDIATORS.
- Creator
-
Hernandez, Claudia, Burke, Shawn, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Given the high number of errors and negative events committed within medical settings, the emphasis on patient safety culture is becoming more prevalent. Despite this effort, underreporting has been and continues to be an issue in this area. Some research has shown a link between underreporting and lack of management responsiveness, but more work is necessary to identify reasons for underreporting and potential mitigating solutions. The objective of the present research is to answer questions...
Show moreGiven the high number of errors and negative events committed within medical settings, the emphasis on patient safety culture is becoming more prevalent. Despite this effort, underreporting has been and continues to be an issue in this area. Some research has shown a link between underreporting and lack of management responsiveness, but more work is necessary to identify reasons for underreporting and potential mitigating solutions. The objective of the present research is to answer questions regarding the impact supervisors have on staff's patient safety perceptions and event reporting, through the use of archival survey data collected with the AHRQ Hospital Safety Culture Survey (2004). Probable moderators and mediators of key relationships were explored as well. Results are presented and their implications are discussed herein.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000084, ucf:45551
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000084
- Title
- SELF-EFFICACY AND COPING IN TRANSITION OF CARE AFTER REMISSION OF CANCER IN ADOLESCENTS.
- Creator
-
McDonnell, Leah M, D' Amato-Kubiet, Leslee, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The improvement in cancer remission rates in children and adolescents due to advances in cancer treatment and therapy has led to the development of guidelines that address long-term follow up for survivors of childhood cancers. Adolescents often experience negative emotions related to the fear of uncertainty about long-term survival after cancer remission, yet often report feelings of hope and optimism for the future more than adult cancer survivors. The purpose of this study was to...
Show moreThe improvement in cancer remission rates in children and adolescents due to advances in cancer treatment and therapy has led to the development of guidelines that address long-term follow up for survivors of childhood cancers. Adolescents often experience negative emotions related to the fear of uncertainty about long-term survival after cancer remission, yet often report feelings of hope and optimism for the future more than adult cancer survivors. The purpose of this study was to understand the role of self-efficacy and coping in adolescents after remission of cancer. A secondary purpose was to analyze which coping strategies supported long-term survival goals after cancer remission in adolescent populations. A systematic literature review was conducted from the following online databases: Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Medical Literature On-line (MEDLINE), Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), and PsycInfo. Selected articles included those published between 2000-2016 that were written in English and were peer-reviewed. The results of the study revealed that most adolescents with cancer remission do not experience long term psychosocial issues related to their cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, a large percentage of adolescent cancer survivors report intermittent depression, suicidal ideation and a lower quality of life due to survival after remission. The literature indicates that multiple, integrative forms of behavioral therapy: cognitive, psychosocial, and family based treatment models, help to enhance long term quality of life in adolescent cancer survivors. Strategies that use positive coping methods and improve self-efficacy related to long term survival after remission have demonstrated improvement in psychosocial behaviors in adolescents and promote a better outlook on planning for the future. Future research that analyzes the most effective coping skills to practice after cancer remission and that optimize self-efficacy related to long term survival can positively influence quality of life for adolescent cancer survivors.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000049, ucf:45552
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000049
- Title
- PROCESS AND MIND: EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PROCESS PHILOSOPHY AND THE NONLINEAR DYNAMICAL SYSTEMS SCIENCE OF COGNITION.
- Creator
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Moralez, Larry A, Favela, Luis H., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This work examines the relationship between Alfred North Whitehead's process philosophy and the nonlinear dynamical systems framework for studying cognition. I argue that the nonlinear dynamical systems approach to cognitive science presupposes many key elements of his process philosophy. The process philosophical interpretation of nature posits events and the dynamic relations between events as the fundamental substrate of reality, as opposed to static physical substances. I present a brief...
Show moreThis work examines the relationship between Alfred North Whitehead's process philosophy and the nonlinear dynamical systems framework for studying cognition. I argue that the nonlinear dynamical systems approach to cognitive science presupposes many key elements of his process philosophy. The process philosophical interpretation of nature posits events and the dynamic relations between events as the fundamental substrate of reality, as opposed to static physical substances. I present a brief history of the development of substance thought before describing Whitehead's characterization of nature as a process. In following, I will examine the both the computational and nonlinear dynamical systems frameworks for investigating cognition. I will show that the computational paradigm is subject to many of the same criticisms as substance. Conversely, I will show that nonlinear dynamical cognitive science avoids these criticisms and is congenial to Whitehead's philosophy insofar as it is suitable for describing emergent processes. To conclude, I suggest that the nonlinear dynamical cognitive science confirms and validates Whitehead's philosophy. Furthermore, I argue that process philosophy is an appropriate characterization of nature for guiding inquiry in cognitive science.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000091, ucf:45553
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000091
- Title
- PERCEPTION OF FACIAL EXPRESSIONS IN SOCIAL ANXIETY AND GAZE ANXIETY.
- Creator
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Necaise, Aaron, Neer, Sandra, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study explored the relationship between gaze anxiety and the perception of facial expressions. The literature suggests that individuals experiencing Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) might have a fear of making direct eye contact, and that these individuals also demonstrate a hypervigilance towards the eye region. It was thought that this increased anxiety concerning eye contact might be related to the tendency of socially anxious individuals to mislabel emotion in the faces of onlookers. A...
Show moreThis study explored the relationship between gaze anxiety and the perception of facial expressions. The literature suggests that individuals experiencing Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) might have a fear of making direct eye contact, and that these individuals also demonstrate a hypervigilance towards the eye region. It was thought that this increased anxiety concerning eye contact might be related to the tendency of socially anxious individuals to mislabel emotion in the faces of onlookers. A better understanding of the cognitive biases common to SAD could lead to more efficient intervention and assessment methods. In the present study, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) and the Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory-23 (SPAI-23) were used to measure social anxiety, depression, and overall distress. These forms allowed us to separate participants who reported high socially anxious and depressive traits from those in the normal range. We then compared anxiety concerning mutual eye contact as measured by the Gaze Anxiety Rating Scale (GARS) to performance on a facial recognition task. Performance was measured as recognition accuracy and average perceived intensity of onlooker expression on a scale of 1-5. A linear regression analysis revealed that higher GARS scores were related to higher perceived intensity of emotion by socially anxious individuals. An exploratory correlation analysis also revealed that higher gaze anxiety was related to lower accuracy at identifying neutral emotions and higher accuracy at identifying angry emotions. While past research has demonstrated these same biases by socially anxious individuals, gaze anxiety had not been explored extensively. Future research should investigate gaze anxiety�s role as a moderating variable.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000039, ucf:45554
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000039
