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- Title
- THE EFFECTS OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE.
- Creator
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Mentor, Marly, Roberts, Robin, Gatchev, Vladimir, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Companies have taken the initiative to be socially responsible over the years. In the past, the focus for companies has been on maximizing wealth. With the growth of corporate social responsibility (CSR), there has been many debates regarding its benefits. More companies are beginning to realize the value of being socially responsible and how critical it is to business function. This paper researches past studies on the relationship between corporate social responsibility and financial...
Show moreCompanies have taken the initiative to be socially responsible over the years. In the past, the focus for companies has been on maximizing wealth. With the growth of corporate social responsibility (CSR), there has been many debates regarding its benefits. More companies are beginning to realize the value of being socially responsible and how critical it is to business function. This paper researches past studies on the relationship between corporate social responsibility and financial performance. This relationship is then tested using a reliable source of data on corporate social responsibility performance. This study uniquely looks at the accounting and market-based measurements of financial performance. The dataset includes most of the S&P 500 firms and covers years 2005-2014. An empirical model is constructed which includes factors that were found significant in the works of Capon, Farley, and Hoenig (1990). The relationships are tested using cross-sector/panel data time-series regressions. Results indicate that CSR and the accounting measurements of financial performance are positively related. CSR and the market-based measurements of financial performance are negatively related. This suggests that CSR positively affects a company�s profits and negatively affects future stock returns. One interpretation of this result is that socially responsible stocks have a lower required rates of return. The results indicate that since investors are more willing to invest in CSR stocks, these firms end up experiencing lower future stock returns. The results are consistent with past studies and support the hypotheses.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000047, ucf:45506
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000047
- Title
- A SURVEY OF PRESERVICE TEACHERS' ATTITUDES ON INTEGRATING STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES IN INCLUSIVE EDUCATION CLASSROOMS.
- Creator
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McNamee, Kelsey K, Marrett, Caroline Pratt, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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There are more than 2.4 million American public school students identified with learning disabilities who are served under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). General education preservice teachers are expected to effectively teach all students, including those with disabilities. However, most teacher preparation programs only require a single course in teaching students with disabilities. Research shows that that teachers� attitudes regarding inclusion are the greatest...
Show moreThere are more than 2.4 million American public school students identified with learning disabilities who are served under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). General education preservice teachers are expected to effectively teach all students, including those with disabilities. However, most teacher preparation programs only require a single course in teaching students with disabilities. Research shows that that teachers� attitudes regarding inclusion are the greatest predictor of a successful inclusion classroom. This study explored the attitudes of preservice elementary and preservice secondary teachers regarding integrating students with disabilities into general education classrooms. A quantitative research design with a survey method was used in this study. The survey method included a questionnaire via Qualtrics, an online survey system used at the University of Central Florida. Findings of this study revealed that 40% of preservice teachers indicated that integrating students with disabilities in the general education class was a burden. However, due to information limitations the results for preservice elementary and preservice secondary teachers� attitudes regarding the integration of students with disabilities in the general education classroom and the number of hours of service learning completed was inconclusive.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000072, ucf:45507
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000072
- Title
- AN EXAMINATION OF THE EXTENT TO WHICH WORD WORK WITH ELEMENTARY STUDENTS TRANSFERS TO AUTHENTIC READING AND WRITING PRACTICES.
- Creator
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Chappell, Rebecca A, Gelfuso, Andrea, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The intent of this thesis is to seek understanding of how word work lessons with children can transfer to their authentic reading and writing practices. Research has shown that when word work is embedded into a balanced approach to teach literacy, it works well and quickly. However, other research shows that word work did not transfer into the students� authentic writing because the connection between word work and writing was not made explicit to the students. The gap in the literature is...
Show moreThe intent of this thesis is to seek understanding of how word work lessons with children can transfer to their authentic reading and writing practices. Research has shown that when word work is embedded into a balanced approach to teach literacy, it works well and quickly. However, other research shows that word work did not transfer into the students� authentic writing because the connection between word work and writing was not made explicit to the students. The gap in the literature is that far less is known about how word work transfers to authentic reading and writing. In my study, I engaged in word work lessons, guided reading lessons, and reading response lessons with four second grade students over the course of three weeks. All lessons were video recorded and became data for this study. Data were analyzed deductively by locating critical teaching moments that were taken advantage of. Findings include three different types of prompts being used by the teacher to take advantage of critical teaching moments. Results from this study have implications for educators, namely how they can be more intentional with their phonics and guided reading instruction, so that word work instruction can transfer to authentic reading and writing practices.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000063, ucf:45508
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000063
- Title
- THE EFFECT OF ALTERNATIVE LABOR POSITIONS VERSUS THE LITHOTOMY POSITION ON BIRTHING OUTCOMES: AN INTEGRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW.
- Creator
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Gaffka, Kelsey, Bushy, Angeline, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Traditionally, the lithotomy position is the most commonly used birthing position in western cultures. The purpose of this literature review was to examine the differences in maternal and neonatal outcomes when alternative labor positions are used. Implications for future use of alternative labor positions were explored. Peer reviewed, English-language research articles published from 2009 to 2015 were included for synthesis. Study results revealed that the lithotomy position is linked to...
Show moreTraditionally, the lithotomy position is the most commonly used birthing position in western cultures. The purpose of this literature review was to examine the differences in maternal and neonatal outcomes when alternative labor positions are used. Implications for future use of alternative labor positions were explored. Peer reviewed, English-language research articles published from 2009 to 2015 were included for synthesis. Study results revealed that the lithotomy position is linked to multiple negative maternal outcomes. Birthing in a water pool or in a lateral position has been linked to more optimal maternal and neonatal outcomes compared to other positions. Health care providers, and nurses in particular, should be educated on the benefits and consequences of both the lithotomy position and alternative labor positions. Using this evidenced based research, health care professionals can educate women and families as they encounter the birthing process. Further research is needed to identify additional birthing outcomes of labor positions, specifically neonatal outcomes of the lithotomy position. In addition, research on innovative obstetric monitoring techniques will expand the opportunity to use alternative labor positions while protecting the mother and fetus.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000094, ucf:45509
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000094
- Title
- AN EXPLORATION OF TEACHER CANDIDATE PERCEPTIONS CONCERNING THEIR POLITICAL ROLE IN SOCIAL STUDIES EDUCATION.
- Creator
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Zagrocki, Brian, Russell, William, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This study argued that the purpose of social studies education is intimately connected with civic engagement. The function of civic engagement shifts in accordance with the political roles a teacher plays in the classroom (Westhaimer & Kahne, 2004). The literature review defined the possible parameters of these political roles. The research then explored how secondary social science and elementary teacher candidates, if at all, planned to address the political issue of civic engagement in...
Show moreThis study argued that the purpose of social studies education is intimately connected with civic engagement. The function of civic engagement shifts in accordance with the political roles a teacher plays in the classroom (Westhaimer & Kahne, 2004). The literature review defined the possible parameters of these political roles. The research then explored how secondary social science and elementary teacher candidates, if at all, planned to address the political issue of civic engagement in education and their self-awareness as political actors. This research study aimed to expand the available body of research on this topic by exploring the perceptions of social studies teacher candidates concerning their roles in promoting civic engagement. This study conducted a survey of social science and elementary teacher candidates to qualitatively measure these perceptions. The study found that teacher candidates possessed entrenched conceptions of good citizenry but fail to connect social studies� primary purpose of civic engagement with the promotion of good citizenry. The study also indicated teacher candidates lack sufficient civic engagement conceptual understanding and corresponding pedagogy to adequately perform their political roles as democratic gatekeepers. Consequently, the study�s educational implications were that social studies teachers� and teacher candidates� awareness of civic engagement in the social studies classroom is necessary to facilitate an effective, ethical, and objective education. Additionally, more attention must be given in teacher candidate education to address the political reality of the social science education profession.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000056, ucf:45510
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000056
- Title
- ROLE OF ADRENERGIC NEURONS IN MOTOR CONTROL: EXAMINATION OF CEREBELLAR PURKINJE NEURONS IN MICE FOLLOWING SELECTIVE ADRENERGIC CELL ABLATION IN VIVO.
- Creator
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Mansour, Monica, Ebert, Steven, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Phenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase (Pnmt) is the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of noradrenaline to adrenaline. These catecholamines are synthesized in the medulla of the adrenal gland and by some neurons of the central nervous system. The precise location of Pnmt action in the brain and its physiological significance are unknown. Prior studies led by Aaron Owji, a graduate student in Dr. Ebert�s laboratory, showed that mice with selectively ablated Pnmt cells show signs of...
Show morePhenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase (Pnmt) is the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of noradrenaline to adrenaline. These catecholamines are synthesized in the medulla of the adrenal gland and by some neurons of the central nervous system. The precise location of Pnmt action in the brain and its physiological significance are unknown. Prior studies led by Aaron Owji, a graduate student in Dr. Ebert�s laboratory, showed that mice with selectively ablated Pnmt cells show signs of neurological defects such as abnormal gait, weakened grip strength, lack of balance, reduced movement, and defective reflexes during tail suspension tests. The cerebellum is a small section of the brain that is responsible for fine-tuning motor commands. Since the Purkinje cells of the cerebellum act as the sole source of output from the cerebellar cortex, impairment of these cells could possibly account for the motor deficits seen in the mice models. The purpose of this project is to determine if there is indeed a change in Purkinje cells between wild type mice and Pnmt-ablated mice. The first aim is to identify quantitative differences in cell count between both genotypes. The second aim is to determine any morphological changes in the Purkinje cells. The main technique used in this project is immunohistochemistry in which cerebellum tissue from mice models are stained with Calbindin (a cellular marker for Purkinje neurons) and imaged with a confocal microscope. Results showed a slight reduction in the Purkinje cells of the ablated mice compared to the control genotype, accompanied with observable differences in cell structure. Understanding catecholamine pathway mechanisms in the nervous system is imperative for elucidating and targeting key players in neurodegenerative disorders.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000053, ucf:45511
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000053
- Title
- CARDIAC CONSEQUENCES OF SELECTIVE ADRENERGIC CELL ABLATION IN MICE.
- Creator
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Tumuluri, Lahari, Ebert, Steven, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Phenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase (Pnmt), is the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of noradrenaline to adrenaline. It has been found in the embryonic heart and in certain adult heart cells, including intrinsic cardiac adrenergic cells, intracardiac neurons, and cardiomyocytes, but their physiological role in the heart is not well understood. To determine the function of Pnmt-expressing cells in the developing heart, a novel genetically-targeted mouse model that causes selective...
Show morePhenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase (Pnmt), is the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of noradrenaline to adrenaline. It has been found in the embryonic heart and in certain adult heart cells, including intrinsic cardiac adrenergic cells, intracardiac neurons, and cardiomyocytes, but their physiological role in the heart is not well understood. To determine the function of Pnmt-expressing cells in the developing heart, a novel genetically-targeted mouse model that causes selective cellular suicide of Pnmt-expressing cells was created by mating Pnmt-Cre Recombinase knock-in mice (Pnmt Cre/Cre) with ROSA26-eGFP-DTA (R26R+/DTA). The �cellular suicide� allele is the Diptheria Toxin A (DTA) gene fragment. Activation of the DTA suicide allele is dependent upon Cre expression, which is under the control of the endogenous Pnmt gene locus (i.e., expression is restricted to adrenaline-producing �adrenergic� cells). Ongoing studies in Dr. Ebert�s laboratory have shown that Pnmt-Cre/DTA mice have a loss of adrenergic cells in the adrenal gland and begin developing serious cardiac and neurological deficits within one month after birth. The purpose of my project is to examine the potential cardiac consequences of selective adrenergic cell ablation in this model. Aim 1 of this study is to analyze echocardiography data from mice with genetic ablation of adrenergic cells compared to age-matched (littermate) controls over the first 6-months after birth. Preliminary evidence indicates that there is substantial loss of function that progressively worsens with age in the ablation group compared to controls. Aim 2 of this study seeks to uncover evidence of adrenergic cell ablation in the heart using histological and immunofluorescence staining techniques. We predict that these experiments will provide physiological and anatomical evidence showing that Pnmt-expressing cells in the heart make significant contributions to cardiac development and function. This knowledge is expected to increase our basic understanding about the specific roles adrenergic cells play during heart, and could lead to the development of novel treatment strategies for certain types of cardiac defects in the future.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000045, ucf:45512
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000045
- Title
- GLOBALIZATION AND THE 'FOURTH WAVE': CONTEMPORARY INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM IN A COMPARATIVE-HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE.
- Creator
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Martinez, Erika M, Turcu, Anca, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Terrorist activity has come to the forefront of political thought in recent years, especially since the attacks on the World Trade Center and Washington D.C on September 11, 2001. President George W. Bush declared a �war on terror� and governments all around the world have taken steps to enhance national security in efforts to prevent terrorist activity. The steps taken are not unwarranted, and in some cases have been successful. The nature of terrorism modernizes just as the world around it...
Show moreTerrorist activity has come to the forefront of political thought in recent years, especially since the attacks on the World Trade Center and Washington D.C on September 11, 2001. President George W. Bush declared a �war on terror� and governments all around the world have taken steps to enhance national security in efforts to prevent terrorist activity. The steps taken are not unwarranted, and in some cases have been successful. The nature of terrorism modernizes just as the world around it does, and as the global community has benefited from globalization and modernization, so have terrorist organizations. This study analyzes the history of modern terrorism through the comparison of four separate waves: the Anarchist Wave, the Nationalist-Separatist Wave, the Revolutionary Wave, and the Religious Wave. This paper compares each wave�s roots, desired outcomes and goals, strategies and modus operandi, destructive impact, and outcomes. The study identifies a move away from hierarchal organization, modernization in communications and weapon choice, and a significant rise in the lethality of terrorist activity in recent years. Furthermore, there is a connection between globalization and modernization and the increase in terrorist activity and lethality. Economic interconnection has provided opportunities through which terrorists can act by providing them with a shield of anonymity, while cultural interconnection has created situations through which anger and frustration can fester to provide motives and justifications for terrorist activity. Meanwhile, modernization has created new technologies that provide more effective means through which terrorists can act on their motives. Although the Religious Wave has been nicknamed the "jihadist wave" to reflect the prevalence of Islamic groups, this study analyzes social, economic, and historic impacts that have led to this wave rather than assume that Islam is inherently violent.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000042, ucf:45513
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000042
- Title
- STRUCTURAL HEALTH MONITORING OF COMPOSITE OVERWRAPPED PRESSURE VESSELS.
- Creator
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Letizia, Luca, Catbas, F. Necati, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This work is focusing to study the structural behavior of Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPVs). These COPVs are found in many engineering applications. In the aerospace field, they are installed onto spaceships and aid the reorientation of the spacecraft in very far and airless, therefore frictionless, orbits to save energy and fuel. The intent of this research is to analyze the difference in performance of both perfectly intact and purposely damaged tanks. Understanding both the...
Show moreThis work is focusing to study the structural behavior of Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPVs). These COPVs are found in many engineering applications. In the aerospace field, they are installed onto spaceships and aid the reorientation of the spacecraft in very far and airless, therefore frictionless, orbits to save energy and fuel. The intent of this research is to analyze the difference in performance of both perfectly intact and purposely damaged tanks. Understanding both the source and location of a structural fault will help NASA engineers predict the performance of COPVs subject to similar conditions, which could prevent failures of important missions. The structural behavior of six tanks is investigated by means of experimental modal analysis. Knowledge of statistical signal processing methods allows to sort out and extract meaningful features from the data as to gain understanding of the performance of the structures. Structural identification is carried out using Narrow Band and Broad Band algorithms. A comparison through correlation tables and figures presents the differences in natural frequencies, mode shapes and damping ratios of all structures. A careful analysis displays the deviation of these modal parameters in the damaged tanks, highlighting the evident structural defects.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000069, ucf:45514
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000069
- Title
- A COMPARATIVE STUDY: WOMEN'S RIGHTS IN KAZAKHSTAN, UZBEKISTAN, AND TAJIKISTAN.
- Creator
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Ginn, Megan A, Sadri, Houman, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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After 1991 five countries emerged out of the fall of the Soviet Union to create a new region: Central Asia. No longer dominated by Soviet rule these countries fought to overcome barriers to independence and struggled to be seen by the international community as developed countries. However, these countries were far from developed and had to pay the high cost of human rights to get what they desired. This study researches and analyzes how Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan have traded the...
Show moreAfter 1991 five countries emerged out of the fall of the Soviet Union to create a new region: Central Asia. No longer dominated by Soviet rule these countries fought to overcome barriers to independence and struggled to be seen by the international community as developed countries. However, these countries were far from developed and had to pay the high cost of human rights to get what they desired. This study researches and analyzes how Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan have traded the rights of women to achieve a placebo of development. Two of the largest violations of women�s rights that have manifested because of the government�s direct actions are domestic abuse and sex trafficking. The government�s structure and leadership, the economic opportunity for women, and the cultural acceptance have all been orchestrated by the government to create a society where women�s rights are unheard of. The actions taken by the three governments seem extensive on paper and international covenants yet are never implemented to help society. Through this research women�s rights in the Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan are examined through the prevalence and acceptance of both domestic violence and sex trafficking. The international conventions, domestic policies, and actions taken by political leaders are examined to better understand the underlying reasons that contribute to the persistence of these attitudes.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000067, ucf:45515
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000067
- Title
- TWO TERMS OF THE CUBAN COUNTERPOINT: TRANSCULTURATION IN THE POETRY OF NICOLoS GUILLeN.
- Creator
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Fulk, Alanna L, Chelfa, Celestino Alberto Villanueva, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The history of Latin America and the Caribbean was irreversibly altered by the arrival of the conquistadors, destruction of native civilizations and implementation of colonialism for hundreds of years. However, Spain also introduced the high culture of the baroque to Latin America and the Caribbean, which mixed with the cultures of native and African peoples, creating new, distinct forms of literary expression. Subsequent post-colonial cultural movements attempted to explore and reaffirm the...
Show moreThe history of Latin America and the Caribbean was irreversibly altered by the arrival of the conquistadors, destruction of native civilizations and implementation of colonialism for hundreds of years. However, Spain also introduced the high culture of the baroque to Latin America and the Caribbean, which mixed with the cultures of native and African peoples, creating new, distinct forms of literary expression. Subsequent post-colonial cultural movements attempted to explore and reaffirm the variety of cultures that shaped both regions, including the movement of Afrocubanismo in Cuba, which occurred from 1910-1940. Afrocubanismo was a movement intended to incorporate African folklore and music into traditional modes of art. While many authors and artists were instrumental to Afrocubanismo, Nicol�s Guill�n is considered to be the most influential author of the movement, due to his new and inventive style of poetry that incorporated both Spanish and African influences. This study will demonstrate how Guill�n�s use of traditional poetic forms, the son and portrayal of everyday Afro-Cuban life reveal his vision for a post-colonial, transcultured Cuban society, rather than a Cuba subject to colonialism and acculturation.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000061, ucf:45516
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000061
- Title
- IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF INTERACTORS OF PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM PFPK6, AN ATYPICAL PROTEIN KINASE.
- Creator
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Cummins, Andi J, Chakrabarti, Debopam, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Plasmodium falciparum, the organism that causes the most prevalent and most virulent cases of malaria in humans, poses a major health burden on the developing world, especially in the tropical regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. The burden of the disease is intensified by the fact that the parasite has developed widespread resistance to all current antimalarial therapies, such as chloroquine. This drug resistance underscores the need to develop novel therapeutics...
Show morePlasmodium falciparum, the organism that causes the most prevalent and most virulent cases of malaria in humans, poses a major health burden on the developing world, especially in the tropical regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. The burden of the disease is intensified by the fact that the parasite has developed widespread resistance to all current antimalarial therapies, such as chloroquine. This drug resistance underscores the need to develop novel therapeutics that target the parasite, but show low toxicity in the human host. Protein kinases, because of their integral roles in cell signaling networks, are considered to be attractive drug targets. Cyclin dependent kinases, or CDKs, and Mitogen-Activated Protein kinases, or MAPKs, are common to eukaryotes and regulate cellular processes of growth and proliferation. Plasmodium falciparum Protein Kinase 6, or PfPK6, is an atypical protein kinase that shows similarities to both MAPKs and CDKs. PfPK6 is expected to have an important role in the intraerythrocytic cell cycle progression and growth in the malaria organism, as it has been found to be essential in the parasite. In order to better understand the function of PfPK6 within Plasmodium, we have identified serveral potential substrates and interactors of the kinase using co-immunoprecipitation with an HA epitope-tagged cell line of PfPK6, as well as phosphoproteomic analysis. These methods resulted identification of 15 novel protein interactors, with 4 being studied for further investigation, and 45 putative substrates after strict peptide filtering, five of which are used in this study. In order to verify putative substrates and interactors, both in vitro and in vivo methods were used. In vitro kinase assays using GST-PfPK6 with 5 recombinant substrates confirmed direct phosphorylation of two novel substrates: MAL7P1.38, a regulator of chromosome condensation, and PF10_0047, a putative RNA binding protein. After attempts to generate bacterial constructs of several putative interactors and a global failure of a usable amount of protein to express under IPTG induction conditions, an alternative form of expression using a cell free Transcription and Translation reaction (TNT) with Wheat Germ Extract was used to generate radiolabeled PF11_0154, PFF0625w, and PF11_0305. Pull down analysis using GST-PfPK6 showed the kinase�s ability to �pull� the interactors out of solution, confirming the interactions defined by the initial epitope tagged Co-Immunoprecipitation. Additionally, for in vivo analysis, parasites were transfected with RFP- PFF_0695w, an uncharacterized Plasmodium protein, in order to cellular localization of this interactors. Immunofluorescence assays of transfected lines showed punctate forms of PFF_0695w in the host erythrocyte in the late trophozoite and schizont stages of the parasite development, suggesting this interactor is a previously undiscovered protein in the Plasmodium secretome. The research presented here is an initial step to defining the interactome of PfPK6.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000041, ucf:45517
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000041
- Title
- WHEN PEOPLE WORKING IN AN OFFICE DON'T WANT TO WORKOUT: AN EXPLORATION OF CORPORATE BENEFIT USE AND CORRELATES TO THE BIG FIVE MODEL OF PERSONALITY.
- Creator
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Harris, Dominique T, Fritzsche, Barbara, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Many corporate offices now offer fitness benefits to their employees. Evidence shows that corporate fitness programs are linked to decreased tardiness, absenteeism, and reduced healthcare costs. These programs also help address the growing obesity crisis threatening one in every three American adults. However, many employees do not participate in corporate fitness plans in spite of the convenience many programs offer. Thus, I wished to explore the personality and lifestyle factors that...
Show moreMany corporate offices now offer fitness benefits to their employees. Evidence shows that corporate fitness programs are linked to decreased tardiness, absenteeism, and reduced healthcare costs. These programs also help address the growing obesity crisis threatening one in every three American adults. However, many employees do not participate in corporate fitness plans in spite of the convenience many programs offer. Thus, I wished to explore the personality and lifestyle factors that contribute to older (age 25+) employees' exercise habits, their use of corporate benefits and correlates to the Big Five model of Personality along with other personality measures. I gathered 94 participants aged 25 and above, who work full-time (at least 32+ hours per week).I had my participants report their demographic information and take a survey through Qualtrics and Amazon Mechanical Turk analyzing their exercise habits and use of corporate benefits. Based on my findings, the Big 5 facet that correlated with corporate benefit use the most was immoderation. Other factors that correlated included Externally Controlled Motivation, Autonomous Motivation, and Perceived Competence. Furthermore, participants were able to share tips for how to improve corporate benefit use. The study could have benefitted from a larger sample size and observation-based reporting, however overall it serves as a good indicator of traits that make a person more inclined to participate in exercise programs and poses suggestions for the improvement of said programs.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000101, ucf:45518
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000101
- Title
- ATMOSPHERIC, ORBITAL, AND ECLIPSE-DEPTH ANALYSIS OF THE HOT JUPITER HAT-P-30-WASP-51AB.
- Creator
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Foster, Andrew SD, Harrington, Joseph, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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HAT-P-30-WASP-51b is a hot-Jupiter exoplanet that orbits an F star every 2.8106 days at a distance of 0.0419 AU. Using the Spitzer Space Telescope in 2012 (Spitzer Program Number 70084) we observed two secondary eclipses at 3.6 and 4.5 ?m. We present eclipse-depth measurements of 0.177 � 0.018 % and 0.247 � 0.024 % and estimate the infrared brightness temperatures to be 1990 � 110 K and 2080 � 130 K for these two channels, respectively, from an analysis using our Photometry for Orbits,...
Show moreHAT-P-30-WASP-51b is a hot-Jupiter exoplanet that orbits an F star every 2.8106 days at a distance of 0.0419 AU. Using the Spitzer Space Telescope in 2012 (Spitzer Program Number 70084) we observed two secondary eclipses at 3.6 and 4.5 ?m. We present eclipse-depth measurements of 0.177 � 0.018 % and 0.247 � 0.024 % and estimate the infrared brightness temperatures to be 1990 � 110 K and 2080 � 130 K for these two channels, respectively, from an analysis using our Photometry for Orbits, Eclipses, and Transits (POET) pipeline. These may be grazing eclipses. We also refine its orbit using our own secondary-eclipse measurements in combination with radial- velocity and transit observations from both professional and amateur observers. Using only the phase of our secondary eclipses, we can constrain e cos(?) where e is the orbital eccentricity and ? is the argument of periastron to 0.0058 � 0.00094. This is the component of eccentricity in the plane of view,. This small but non-zero eccentricity is independent of the effects that stellar tides have on radial-velocity data. When including radial velocity data in our model, our Markov chain finds an e cos(?) of 0.0043 � 0.0007. We constrain the atmospheric temperature profile using our Bayesian Atmospheric Radiative Transfer code (BART), a large lower bound (700 km) for the scale height, and the potential for high quality transit spectroscopy observations.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000074, ucf:45519
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000074
- Title
- THE SYNCHRONICITY OF HOPE AND ENHANCED QUALITY OF LIFE IN TERMINAL CANCER.
- Creator
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Terry, Brianna M, Chase, Susan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of death worldwide. The rate of mortality is currently approximately 171.2 out of every 100,000 individuals with a terminal cancer diagnosis annually. Individuals with terminal cancer diagnoses facing probable mortality utilize various coping mechanisms or internal resources in an attempt to maintain an internal sense of well-being, commonly referred to as quality of life (QOL). The purpose of this literature...
Show moreCancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of death worldwide. The rate of mortality is currently approximately 171.2 out of every 100,000 individuals with a terminal cancer diagnosis annually. Individuals with terminal cancer diagnoses facing probable mortality utilize various coping mechanisms or internal resources in an attempt to maintain an internal sense of well-being, commonly referred to as quality of life (QOL). The purpose of this literature review was to investigate themes prevalent in the literature pertaining to internal coping mechanisms and analyze any correlation or causation linking these resources to a change in QOL in individuals with a terminal cancer diagnosis. The secondary purpose of this review was to interpret and define the healthcare provider's role in supporting this relationship. A systematic review of the literature was conducted from multiple online databases. Multiple studies related to the overarching themes of internal resources and QOL for individuals with a terminal cancer diagnosis were selected for the review. Results revealed major themes pertaining to correlation between hope and QOL. Studies which analyzed the relationship between hope and QOL found a positive correlation. The literature suggests that healthcare providers are capable of facilitating this relationship between hope and QOL. Healthcare provider facilitation of the relationship between hope and QOL is valuable in the clinical setting, and can aid an individual in achieving a desirable QOL.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000075, ucf:45520
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000075
- Title
- IT WILL TURN VICIOUS: AN EXPLORATION OF THE CYCLE OF AUDIENCE RIDICULE IN FRENCH DRAMA.
- Creator
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Elfont, Stephanie C, Thomas, Aaron C., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The intent of this thesis is to investigate the prominence of audience ridicule in the French theatre from the medieval sottie to Ionescan Absurdism of the mid-twentieth century. Throughout the history of French drama, playwrights have exploited this tactic with either the purpose of invoking an emotional or intellectual response or inciting a social or political call to action. This exploration takes particular interest in shaming theatrical audiences during periods of political unrest,...
Show moreThe intent of this thesis is to investigate the prominence of audience ridicule in the French theatre from the medieval sottie to Ionescan Absurdism of the mid-twentieth century. Throughout the history of French drama, playwrights have exploited this tactic with either the purpose of invoking an emotional or intellectual response or inciting a social or political call to action. This exploration takes particular interest in shaming theatrical audiences during periods of political unrest, analyzing the ways in which playwrights employed language, studies of characters, and plot-related content to highlight the prevalent and pervasive ills of society and of humanity. The majority of the literature from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries criticizes the aristocracy, the clergy, and the crown. As we approach revolutionary France, the theatre all but abandons intrigue in favor of the tears that flowed that from the ocean of English Sentimentalism. Melodrama and the well-made play adorned the early-nineteenth century, while the later part of the century brought French theatre Jarry�s pataphysics and his affinity for audience shaming that set the stage for the impending onslaught of twentieth-century ridicule. The avant-garde movement flourished at the beginning of the century with the Dadas and the Surrealists responding to humanity�s response to the War to End All Wars. When Ionesco arrived at the forefront of the French theatre mid-century, he employed the most effective audience ridicule tactics invented by his predecessors and created his Absurdist theatre. Ionesco writes: �take a circle, caress it, and it will turn vicious� (38). From the fifteenth century to the twentieth century, the cycle of audience ridicule was indeed vicious in a theatre that sought to effect positive change in a rapidly changing society.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000040, ucf:45521
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000040
- Title
- INTENSIVE CARE IN ONCOLOGY: ADMISSION AND OUTCOMES IN ADULT PATIENTS WITH CANCER.
- Creator
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John, Surya, Loerzel, Victoria, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Background: Historically, patients with cancer have been perceived as poor candidates for ICU admission. General ICU admission criteria lists cancer patients as low priority in ICU admission depriving them of the care they rightfully deserve. The purpose of this literary synthesis was to examine ICU admission criteria, risk factors, and outcomes of ICU admission in relation to hematological and solid tumor cancers and discuss ways that practitioners and nurses can educate patients with cancer...
Show moreBackground: Historically, patients with cancer have been perceived as poor candidates for ICU admission. General ICU admission criteria lists cancer patients as low priority in ICU admission depriving them of the care they rightfully deserve. The purpose of this literary synthesis was to examine ICU admission criteria, risk factors, and outcomes of ICU admission in relation to hematological and solid tumor cancers and discuss ways that practitioners and nurses can educate patients with cancer and their families on appropriateness of ICU care. Methods: A total of 768 articles were found in a literature search including all literature from 2005 to 2016 from all countries using the databases CINAHL Plus, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Academic Search Premier. These were further narrowed down based on relevancy by topic or reading abstracts. A total of 13 articles utilizing the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the literature search were included in the final literature synthesis. Results: In addition to general ICU admission criteria several other criteria and scores can be helpful in admitting patients with cancer to the ICU including cancer specific criteria, mortality predictor tools, performance status, and ICU trials. Mortality predictors, in combination with other patient characteristics, demonstrated effectiveness to predict outcomes in patients with cancer. Survival rates in hematological and solid tumor cancers have improved from the past, and lower prognostic scores can predict who will have better outcomes. Conclusion: Cancer specific criteria, mortality predictor tools, performance status, and ICU trials in addition to general ICU criteria should be used for admission of cancer patients into ICU. Practitioners and nurses should become familiar with the newest outcomes in patients with cancer to make collaborative informed decisions about ICU admission.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000093, ucf:45522
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000093
- Title
- BUSINESS CASE STUDIES IN SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES.
- Creator
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Lynch, Sheri L, Combs, James G., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Protecting the environment for future generations is crucial. Although businesses are under strong pressure to support sustainability, many leaders find it challenging to meet the environmental needs of the present without negatively impacting their economic goals. This paper describes some methods that businesses have adopted to effectively manage environmental issues and offer an opportunity for competitive advantage. In particular, three case studies show ways that the companies have...
Show moreProtecting the environment for future generations is crucial. Although businesses are under strong pressure to support sustainability, many leaders find it challenging to meet the environmental needs of the present without negatively impacting their economic goals. This paper describes some methods that businesses have adopted to effectively manage environmental issues and offer an opportunity for competitive advantage. In particular, three case studies show ways that the companies have embraced and integrated sustainability into their strategic planning process, which helped them achieve growth and success in the context of social and environmental concerns. The paper shows how these businesses have chosen to embrace sustainability to minimize the negative impact in our environment, society, and economy. The case studies can help managers define and prioritize their sustainability goals, achieve social and economic value, and transform these environmental investments into sources of competitive advantage. This paper can be beneficial to other businesses who desire to move beyond compliance of the law and become proactive in helping our environment for future generations.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000100, ucf:45523
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000100
- Title
- MEDICAL CLAIMS AT NCAA INSTITUTIONS: THE ATHLETIC TRAINER'S ROLE.
- Creator
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Killinger, Tyler P, Schellhase, Kristen C., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Context: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) institutions are required to certify insurance coverage of medical expenses that result from athletically related injuries sustained while partaking in an NCAA event. This means that the student-athlete must be covered either by their parent�s/guardian�s insurance, their own personal insurance coverage, and/or the institution�s insurance program. Institutions assign this role to a variety of employees, including head athletic trainers ...
Show moreContext: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) institutions are required to certify insurance coverage of medical expenses that result from athletically related injuries sustained while partaking in an NCAA event. This means that the student-athlete must be covered either by their parent�s/guardian�s insurance, their own personal insurance coverage, and/or the institution�s insurance program. Institutions assign this role to a variety of employees, including head athletic trainers (ATs), assistant ATs, athletic administrators, business managers, secretaries, or other institution employees. In 1994 Street, Yates, Lavery, and Lavery observed that the head AT was responsible for administering medical insurance/claims payment at 51% of the institutions studied. The tasks necessary to pay athletic medical claims require a lot of paperwork and can be very time consuming. Additionally, insurance rules and regulations are complicated. Anecdotally, ATs do not always feel well suited to perform these tasks. Objective: Investigate the ways that athletic associations/departments coordinate athletic medical claims and how often an AT is assigned to be the administrator who oversees policies and procedures related to athletic medical claims. Design: Cross sectional. Setting: Participants completed a web-based questionnaire. Patients or Other Participants: Responses from 184 (38%) ATs employed in collegiate settings (Division I 26.1%; Division II 28.8%, Division III 45.1%) were analyzed. Intervention: None. Main Outcome Measures: Demographics. Results: The mean number of full-time ATs on staff was 3.8 (n=97). The head AT was primarily responsible for the payment of athletic medical claims at 48.4% (n=89) of institutions and the assistant AT was responsible at 13.6% (n=25) of institutions. A non-AT was responsible at 38% (n=70). The mean hours spent on this task by head ATs (n=86) was 6.17 hours per week and the mean hours spent by assistant ATs (n=22) was 10.32 hours per week. Most respondents (62.0%, n=103) reported no formal training in athletic medical insurance claims payments whereas 20.5% (n=34) reported the individual responsible had had formal, with 17.5% (n=29) stating they were not sure what training the individual had received. When asked where they felt it was most appropriate to learn these concepts, respondents reported: within an accredited AT program curriculum (36% n=56), on the job training (34% n=52), or CEU event (30% n=46). Conclusions: It is clear that ATs at NCAA institutions are responsible for the administration of athletic medical claims. ATs are spending a large amount of time each week on medical claims, although most have no formal training. An AT may not be the most ideal individual to handle these medical claims; but if an AT is going to continue to be responsible for this task, AT programs should increase the emphasis of this content within the curriculum and CEU opportunities should be made available to ensure athletic medical claims are handled effectively.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000048, ucf:45524
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000048
- Title
- PARTICIPANT'S PERCEPTION OF REALISM AND PEDIATRIC PAIN ASSESSMENT UTILIZING A VIRTUAL PATIENT: A PILOT STUDY.
- Creator
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Carson, Alexandra, Anderson, Mindi, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The use of simulation in curriculum affords students with the opportunity to enhance clinical skills in a safe environment. However, certain aspects of patient assessment are difficult to reproduce in current simulators, such as changes in facial expressions. Facial expressions are of particular importance when assessing for the presence and severity of pain in the pediatric population. Inconsistencies found in accurate identification of pain suggest the necessity of improved pain assessment...
Show moreThe use of simulation in curriculum affords students with the opportunity to enhance clinical skills in a safe environment. However, certain aspects of patient assessment are difficult to reproduce in current simulators, such as changes in facial expressions. Facial expressions are of particular importance when assessing for the presence and severity of pain in the pediatric population. Inconsistencies found in accurate identification of pain suggest the necessity of improved pain assessment training. This study evaluated nursing student's perceptions of a virtual patient designed to realistically display varying levels of pain in the pediatric patient. Additional purposes of this study were to evaluate the student's ability to accurately rate pediatric pain using a virtual patient with and without other indicators of pain, explore the students experience learning pediatric pain in nursing school, and explore the use of simulation in curriculum to teach pain. A total of N=11 nursing students participated in this study. Students were presented with a series of virtual patient faces and asked to provide a pain rating from 0-10 utilizing a pediatric pain assessment tool, and to numerically list the facial features used to identify the pain rating they chose. A questionnaire was then completed which included questions regarding the realism of the virtual patient, pain and curriculum, and simulation. Results of the study showed students rated pain lower than the expected rating when presented with virtual patient faces only, and rated pain closer to the expected rating when presented with virtual patient faces and other indicators of pain such as vital signs and verbal cues. A noticeable range of reported pain rating levels existed for all virtual faces in which students rated the pain lower or higher than the true pain rating. The majority of students reported the virtual patient was moderately to extremely realistic, and 90.9% (n=10) reported they would like to have the technology implemented into a simulation scenario.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000085, ucf:45525
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000085
