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- Title
- THE RHETORIC OF INMATES: IDENTIFICATION PROCESSES IN THE SAN QUENTIN NEWS.
- Creator
-
Stepanov, Alexandra, Wheeler, Stephanie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The intent of this thesis is to create a new heuristic for processes of identification. Currently, Burke's identification theory only accounts for his definition of successful identification. This thesis explores how Burke's initial identification theory interacts with other theories that contribute to identity formation. Specifically, Fernheimer's identification half-steps, Reynold's ethos as location theory, and Kerschbaum's commodification of difference will be used to build on Burke's...
Show moreThe intent of this thesis is to create a new heuristic for processes of identification. Currently, Burke's identification theory only accounts for his definition of successful identification. This thesis explores how Burke's initial identification theory interacts with other theories that contribute to identity formation. Specifically, Fernheimer's identification half-steps, Reynold's ethos as location theory, and Kerschbaum's commodification of difference will be used to build on Burke's theory and develop a new heuristic. The new heuristic will be applied to the San Quentin State Prison's inmate-run newspaper, the San Quentin News, to explore how inmates are utilizing rhetorical identification strategies to change the dominant conversations surrounding their identity.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000220, ucf:46049
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000220
- Title
- THE EFFECT OF BIOFEEDBACK ON COPING FOR PATIENTS WITH DEPRESSION.
- Creator
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Atkinson, Amber L, Stockmann, Cherrill, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Background: Individuals with depression have a higher incidence of comorbidity which significantly decreases their ability to function and increases their utilization of health care. Due to the severity of the economic burden resulting with depression, research is needed to further examine the most effective treatments for depression. Biofeedback is a therapy that teaches patients how to control the physical affects that manifest during depression. Aim: The purpose of this review of...
Show moreBackground: Individuals with depression have a higher incidence of comorbidity which significantly decreases their ability to function and increases their utilization of health care. Due to the severity of the economic burden resulting with depression, research is needed to further examine the most effective treatments for depression. Biofeedback is a therapy that teaches patients how to control the physical affects that manifest during depression. Aim: The purpose of this review of literature is to discover the benefits of biofeedback for patients diagnosed with depression. Method: An electronic literature search was conducted using various databases to retrieve articles examining biofeedback as an intervention for patients with depression or depressive symptoms. Results: Studies that used biofeedback as an intervention for depression reported significant physical benefits for patients, including decreased heart rate variability and respiratory rate, as well as improved function. Conclusion: Research indicates that treatments need to have the potential to empower individuals, relieve them of their negative symptoms, relieve their financial burden, and allow them the quality of life they deserve.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000167, ucf:46050
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000167
- Title
- CONFLICT RECURRENCE IN RWANDA AND BURUNDI.
- Creator
-
Ritter, Kellan H, Powell, Jonathan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This thesis argues that the different reactions of the population and rival elites to executive attempts to extend term limits in Rwanda and Burundi reflect the different ways civil wars ended in these two countries. In Rwanda, a military victory resulted in institutions that placed less constraint on the ruling party, while in Burundi, a negotiated settlement placed comparatively greater constraints on the ruling party. As a result, the major party in Rwanda was more powerful than the major...
Show moreThis thesis argues that the different reactions of the population and rival elites to executive attempts to extend term limits in Rwanda and Burundi reflect the different ways civil wars ended in these two countries. In Rwanda, a military victory resulted in institutions that placed less constraint on the ruling party, while in Burundi, a negotiated settlement placed comparatively greater constraints on the ruling party. As a result, the major party in Rwanda was more powerful than the major power in Burundi, and thus more capable to co-opt or coerce the opposition. This paper uses a most-similar case design to test the hypothesis that civil wars that end in negotiated settlements are more likely to become unstable than a civil war that ends in a military victory when executives attempt to extend their term limits and finds that the civil war outcome was instrumental in explaining the divergent reactions in both countries. This paper has important implications for those interested in post-conflict situations and executive term-limit extensions.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000247, ucf:46051
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000247
- Title
- AN RNAI SCREEN TO IDENTIFY COMPONENTS OF A POLYAMINE TRANSPORT SYSTEM.
- Creator
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Foley, Adam J, Von Kalm, Laurence, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Polyamines, specifically putrescine, spermidine, and spermine, are small cationic molecules found in all organisms. Cells can biosynthetically make these molecules, or alternatively, they can be transported from the extracellular environment. Malignant cells have been shown to require relatively high amounts of polyamines. There is a chemotherapeutic agent, DFMO, used to block the biosynthesis of polyamines. Many malignant cells can circumvent DFMO therapy by activating their transport system...
Show morePolyamines, specifically putrescine, spermidine, and spermine, are small cationic molecules found in all organisms. Cells can biosynthetically make these molecules, or alternatively, they can be transported from the extracellular environment. Malignant cells have been shown to require relatively high amounts of polyamines. There is a chemotherapeutic agent, DFMO, used to block the biosynthesis of polyamines. Many malignant cells can circumvent DFMO therapy by activating their transport system. A potential solution is to simultaneously block biosynthesis and transport of polyamines. However, little is known about the polyamine transport system in higher eukaryotes. This thesis aims to add to the basic biological understanding of the polyamine transport system, as well as contribute to our understanding of the way in which malignant cells are able to sustain rapid growth. This was done by screening six candidate genes believed to be involved in the polyamine transport system. These six genes were identified using various bioinformatics databases. They were screened using RNAi to knock down each gene of interest and by using an assay developed in our lab. One of the genes, RabX6, may play a possible role in the transport of putrescine.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000187, ucf:46043
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000187
- Title
- EXPLORING SUPPORTED CONVERSATION WITH FAMILIAL CAREGIVERS OF PERSONS WITH MEMORY IMPAIRMENT: A PILOT STUDY.
- Creator
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Willis, Arielle, Whiteside, Janet, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Teaching conversational strategies has been effective for a wide array of clients with acquired neurologic disorders and their caregivers. Research indicates positive results for Supported Conversation in adults with Aphasia (SCA) secondary to stroke. Applying this method to work with caregivers of persons with memory impairment could prove to be a valid intervention tool. This investigation will examine the applicability of SCA with persons with memory impairment and their familial...
Show moreTeaching conversational strategies has been effective for a wide array of clients with acquired neurologic disorders and their caregivers. Research indicates positive results for Supported Conversation in adults with Aphasia (SCA) secondary to stroke. Applying this method to work with caregivers of persons with memory impairment could prove to be a valid intervention tool. This investigation will examine the applicability of SCA with persons with memory impairment and their familial caregivers. This pilot study is intended to create a conversation regarding SCA and its implementation with persons with memory impairment who still live in the community with their caregivers. Analysis between the pre-training and post-training scores showed a trend to wards significance for Time (F(1, 9) = 0.064), no significance for Measure (F(3, 9) = 0.558), and no significance for the interaction of Time*Measure (F(3, 9) = 0.276). The effect size for Time was 0.732, for Measure was 0.494 and for Time*Measure was 0.956.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000139, ucf:46044
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000139
- Title
- USE OF A MUSIC AND MEMORY PROGRAM BY CAREGIVERS OF PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA.
- Creator
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Mendez Campos, Barbara, Gammonley, Denise, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Although use of personal music devices by persons with dementia and their caregivers is now widespread, there is limited literature concerning music and memory's effects on caregivers for persons with dementia. Caregivers were provided an iPod by two respite agencies and were encouraged to use it with their care recipient. A mailed survey of 50 caregivers who received an IPod explored: (a) associations between use of an iPod and caregiver self-efficacy, burden, and care recipient functional...
Show moreAlthough use of personal music devices by persons with dementia and their caregivers is now widespread, there is limited literature concerning music and memory's effects on caregivers for persons with dementia. Caregivers were provided an iPod by two respite agencies and were encouraged to use it with their care recipient. A mailed survey of 50 caregivers who received an IPod explored: (a) associations between use of an iPod and caregiver self-efficacy, burden, and care recipient functional abilities, and; (b) if the method of presenting the music playlist was associated with use of the iPod. Associations were examined for 10 complete surveys returned by caregiver respondents using non-parametric methods. There was no relationship between self-efficacy, burden, functional abilities and use of the iPod. A content analysis was conducted of caregiver open-ended responses to questions about factors associated with use of the device. Mean caregiver age in this study was 75 years of age, care recipient mean was 79 years of age. On average caregivers used the IPods 2-3 times per month. Scores on caregiver burden measured by the 12-item Zarit Burden Interview had a mean of 12.5 which suggests a moderate level of burden. Emergent themes from caregiver open-ended responses about using the device revealed care recipients as primary users, use mostly in the evening, and in response to caregiving tasks or difficult care recipient behaviors. Keywords: Music and memory, dementia caregiver burden, self-efficacy
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000181, ucf:46046
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000181
- Title
- INVESTIGATING THE QUANTITY AND TYPES OF MICROPLASTICS IN THE ORGANIC TISSUE OF OYSTERS AND CRABS IN THE INDIAN RIVER LAGOON.
- Creator
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Waite, Heidi, Walters, Linda J., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Microplastics are widespread and abundant. Few studies have examined the diversity and abundance of microplastics in wild organisms. This study determined the microplastic quantity and types in the organic tissues of the eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica and Atlantic mud crab Panopeus herbstii from the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). This study also investigated whether location affected the microplastic abundance and variety. Organisms were collected from three sites across Mosquito Lagoon in...
Show moreMicroplastics are widespread and abundant. Few studies have examined the diversity and abundance of microplastics in wild organisms. This study determined the microplastic quantity and types in the organic tissues of the eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica and Atlantic mud crab Panopeus herbstii from the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). This study also investigated whether location affected the microplastic abundance and variety. Organisms were collected from three sites across Mosquito Lagoon in the northern IRL. Oysters were frozen after collection. Crabs were placed in containers for 5 days before freezing. The soft organic tissue was chemically digested using hydrogen peroxide, filtered, and examined for microplastics. Water samples collected from each study site had an average of 23.1 microplastic pieces per liter and fibers were the most common type. There was a significant interaction for microplastic type and site for both oysters and crabs (p
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000157, ucf:46042
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000157
- Title
- A MEASUREMENT OF CAMPUS PRESENCE: THE COGNITIVE LINK BETWEEN CAMPUS ENGAGEMENT AND POSITIVE OUTCOMES IN COLLEGE STUDENTS.
- Creator
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Kleiman, Daniel M, McConnell, Daniel, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Prior research has shown that positive psychological states and attitudes are known outcomes in students who are engaged on their college campus. Although many studies prove this to be evident, literature lacks examination between these two variables. The purpose of the current study was to find a cognitive link between student engagement and the measured outcomes of self-esteem, college self-efficacy, college affiliation, and levels of optimism/pessimism. The study proposed that there is a...
Show morePrior research has shown that positive psychological states and attitudes are known outcomes in students who are engaged on their college campus. Although many studies prove this to be evident, literature lacks examination between these two variables. The purpose of the current study was to find a cognitive link between student engagement and the measured outcomes of self-esteem, college self-efficacy, college affiliation, and levels of optimism/pessimism. The study proposed that there is a process of developing an internal sense of presence on campus, which occurs in those students that are actively engaged in activities outside of the classroom. Individual personality traits are additionally measured as a variable for tendencies of involvement. Measurements of presence level in students were analyzed by administering a Campus Presence Scale, modified from the Witmer & Singer Presence Scale. The study subscales that examine levels of student engagement and its outcomes were measured in an online questionnaire format via Qualtrics. A total of 371 students at the University of Central Florida participated in the study. This study hypothesized that students who spend more time on campus engaged in co-curricular activities would display higher levels of presence development. The study also sought a flow of development in these processes, hypothesizing that campus presence mediates the actions in which students engage and their psychological well-being and attitudes towards their institution. Analyses in SPSS were used to examine these relationships. Results indicated that presence is significantly correlated with higher student self-esteem, self-efficacy, college affiliation, and optimism. Results also showed that those involved with student organizations and those who regularly attend campus events are significantly more extroverted and have higher levels of presence, college affiliation and self-efficacy
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000164, ucf:46047
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000164
- Title
- A SOFTWARE-BASED KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USING NARRATIVE TEXTS.
- Creator
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McDaniel, Thomas Rudy, Dombrowski, Paul, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Technical and professional communicators have in recent research been challenged to make significant contributions to the field of knowledge management, and to learn or create the new technologies allowing them to do so. The purpose of this dissertation is to make such a combined theoretical and applied contribution from the context of the emerging discipline of Texts and Technology. This dissertation explores the field of knowledge management (KM), particularly its relationship to the...
Show moreTechnical and professional communicators have in recent research been challenged to make significant contributions to the field of knowledge management, and to learn or create the new technologies allowing them to do so. The purpose of this dissertation is to make such a combined theoretical and applied contribution from the context of the emerging discipline of Texts and Technology. This dissertation explores the field of knowledge management (KM), particularly its relationship to the related study of artificial intelligence (AI), and then recommends a KM software application based on the principles of narratology and narrative information exchange. The focus of knowledge is shifted from the reductive approach of data and information to a holistic approach of meaning and the way people make sense of complex events as experiences expressed in stories. Such an analysis requires a discussion of the evolution of intelligent systems and narrative theory as well as an examination of existing computerized and non-computerized storytelling systems. After a thorough discussion of these issues, an original software program that is used to collect, analyze, and distribute thematic stories within any hierarchical organization is modeled, exemplified, and explained in detail.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000012, ucf:46117
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000012
- Title
- WATER QUALITY VARIATIONS DURING NITRIFICATION IN DRINKING WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS.
- Creator
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Webb, David W, Taylor, James S., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This thesis documents the relationship among the major water quality parametersduring a nitrification episode. Nitrification unexpectedly occurred in a chloraminated pilotdrinking water distribution system practicing with a 4.0 mg/L as Cl2 residual dosed at 4.5:1Cl2:NH3-N. Surface, ground and sea water were treated and disinfected withmonochloramines to produce finished water quality similar to regional utility water quality.PVC, galvanized, unlined cast iron and lined iron pipes were...
Show moreThis thesis documents the relationship among the major water quality parametersduring a nitrification episode. Nitrification unexpectedly occurred in a chloraminated pilotdrinking water distribution system practicing with a 4.0 mg/L as Cl2 residual dosed at 4.5:1Cl2:NH3-N. Surface, ground and sea water were treated and disinfected withmonochloramines to produce finished water quality similar to regional utility water quality.PVC, galvanized, unlined cast iron and lined iron pipes were harvested from regionaldistribution systems and used to build eighteen pilot distribution systems (PDSs). The PDSswere operated at a 5-day hydraulic residence time (HRT) and ambient temperatures.As seasonal temperatures increased the rate of monochloramine dissipation increaseduntil effluent PDS residuals were zero. PDSs effluent water quality parameters chloraminesresidual, dissolved oxygen, heterotrophic plate counts (HPCs), pH, alkalinity, and nitrogenspecies were monitored and found to vary as expected by stoichiometry associated withtheoretical biological reactions excepting alkalinity. Nitrification was confirmed in thePDSs. The occurrence in the PDSs was not isolated to any particular source water.Ammonia for nitrification came from degraded chloramines, which was common among allfinished waters. Consistent with nitrification trends of dissolved oxygen consumption,ammonia consumption, nitrite and nitrate production were clearly observed in the PDSs bulkwater quality profiles. Trends of pH and alkalinity were less apparent. To controlnitrification: residual was increased to 4.5 mg/L as Cl2 at 5:1 Cl2:NH3-N dosing ratio, and theHRT was reduced from 5 to 2 days. Elimination of the nitrification episode was achievedafter a 1 week free chlorine burn.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000063, ucf:46118
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000063
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF THE LIBRARIES IN THE VANGUARD LEARNING COLLEGES.
- Creator
-
Swaine, Linda G, Magann, Doug, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study was conducted to determine the characteristics of a learning-centered library from the perspective of the libraries in the 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges which were participants in the Learning College Project sponsored by the League for Innovation in the Community College. The 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges were: Cascadia Community College (WA), Community College of Baltimore County (MD), Community College of Denver (CO), Humber College, (Ontario), Kirkwood Community College (IA),...
Show moreThis study was conducted to determine the characteristics of a learning-centered library from the perspective of the libraries in the 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges which were participants in the Learning College Project sponsored by the League for Innovation in the Community College. The 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges were: Cascadia Community College (WA), Community College of Baltimore County (MD), Community College of Denver (CO), Humber College, (Ontario), Kirkwood Community College (IA), Lane Community College, OR), Madison Area Technical College (WI), Moraine Valley Community College (IL), Palomar College (CA), Richland College (TX), Sinclair Community College (OH), and Valencia Community College (FL).Furthermore, the researcher was interested in discovering the extent to which the learning-centered concept had been implemented in these libraries as it related to the objectives of the Learning College Project and to chronicle the journeys of the libraries to become more learning-centered. The case study methodology was selected as the most appropriate method for collecting data from the libraries. The researcher interviewed the library administrators or their designees using a semi-structured telephone interview format. The interview questions were open-ended in nature and were developed based on the objectives of the Learning College Project under the guidance of a panel of experts from the fields of information studies and qualitative research. An analysis of the data derived from the telephone interviews and archival documents was analyzed using qualitative analysis strategies. The researcher sought to identify recurring patterns. Findings indicated that a learning-centered library: (a) supports the teaching and learning processes of the college, (b) empowers library staff to be facilitators of learning, (c) conducts strategic planning and assessment, (d) markets its services and resources to its learning community, (e) has facilities that are welcoming and conducive to the learning needs of its users, and (f) uses benchmarking with peer libraries and other organizations to improve its resources and services. When the library administrators or their designees rated the level of learning-centeredness attained by their libraries on a scale of one to ten with one being lowest and ten being highest, the most frequently reported level was 7 and the mean was 6.75. Findings on the implementation of the objectives of the Learning College Project suggested that while the libraries had made tremendous strides in this endeavor, their journeys were not yet completed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000045, ucf:46123
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000045
- Title
- SINBAD AUTOMATION OF SCIENTIFIC PROCESS: FROM HIDDEN FACTOR ANALYSIS TO THEORY SYNTHESIS.
- Creator
-
KURSUN, OLCAY, Favorov, Oleg V., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Modern science is turning to progressively more complex and data-rich subjects, which challenges the existing methods of data analysis and interpretation. Consequently, there is a pressing need for development of ever more powerful methods of extracting order from complex data and for automation of all steps of the scientific process. Virtual Scientist is a set of computational procedures that automate the method of inductive inference to derive a theory from observational data dominated by...
Show moreModern science is turning to progressively more complex and data-rich subjects, which challenges the existing methods of data analysis and interpretation. Consequently, there is a pressing need for development of ever more powerful methods of extracting order from complex data and for automation of all steps of the scientific process. Virtual Scientist is a set of computational procedures that automate the method of inductive inference to derive a theory from observational data dominated by nonlinear regularities. The procedures utilize SINBAD a novel computational method of nonlinear factor analysis that is based on the principle of maximization of mutual information among non-overlapping sources (Imax), yielding higher-order features of the data that reveal hidden causal factors controlling the observed phenomena. One major advantage of this approach is that it is not dependent on a particular choice of learning algorithm to use for the computations. The procedures build a theory of the studied subject by finding inferentially useful hidden factors, learning interdependencies among its variables, reconstructing its functional organization, and describing it by a concise graph of inferential relations among its variables. The graph is a quantitative model of the studied subject, capable of performing elaborate deductive inferences and explaining behaviors of the observed variables by behaviors of other such variables and discovered hidden factors. The set of Virtual Scientist procedures is a powerful analytical and theory-building tool designed to be used in research of complex scientific problems characterized by multivariate and nonlinear relations.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000043, ucf:46124
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000043
- Title
- APPLICATION OF ABSORPTIVE TREATMENTS ON TRAFFIC NOISE BARRIERS IN FLORIDA.
- Creator
-
Chua, Chin Boon, Wayson, Roger, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
In this thesis, the parallel barrier analysis feature in the Federal Highway Administration Traffic Noise Model (FHWA TNM), which is based on RAYVERB was used to explore the effects of multiple reflections due to single and parallel barriers and the use of absorptive treatment. Database was developed from the data collected from previous research efforts was used to generate a best fit equation model that can be used as a predetermining tool to determine the magnitude of parallel barrier...
Show moreIn this thesis, the parallel barrier analysis feature in the Federal Highway Administration Traffic Noise Model (FHWA TNM), which is based on RAYVERB was used to explore the effects of multiple reflections due to single and parallel barriers and the use of absorptive treatment. Database was developed from the data collected from previous research efforts was used to generate a best fit equation model that can be used as a predetermining tool to determine the magnitude of parallel barrier insertion loss. The best fit equation model was then used to test against measured/model result and TNM prediction results for its validity. Absorptive materials were also studied such that 3 top of them were selected and recommended for Florida highway barrier use. It was found that the top three absorptive treatments for use on Florida highway barriers have been determined to be cementitous material, metal wool and glass fiber. These materials can be used to reduce the sound reflections for single and parallel barriers. The developed best fit equation model from this research is Deg = -2.17NRC - CW0.42 + 1.97eln(BH) + RH0.29 + DBB0.27; the prediction results give moderately high R2 value of 0.55 if compared to the results from database. Prediction results from best fit equation model was also found to be consistent with the results from the measure/modeled results, providing further proof of the validity of the model. However, if compared results from equation model, TNM and measured/model (measured and model compared results using ANSI method), TNM was shown to provide higher insertion loss degradation. It was found that the most effective placement of absorptive material was the pattern which covers the barrier from the bottom up; it was also found that only about 60% from the bottom of the barrier area requires covering with high NRC absorptive treatment (NRC greater than 0.8) without sacrificing insertion loss. Also, if the barrier area near the top includes an easily obtainable NRC value of 0.4, only 40% to 50% of the bottom barrier needs absorptive treatment with a higher, more expensive NRC rating. These findings can substantially reduce the cost of conventional absorptive barrier which have full coverage of high NRC absorptive treatment. This research has begun important improvements in noise barrier design, additional work can be continued to further verify all the findings in this thesis such that easier and better equation model can be developed to calculate insertion loss degradation and cheaper absorptive barrier with less absorptive material usage can be built.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000008, ucf:46127
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000008
- Title
- A JOURNEY OF TEACHING AND LEARNING IN SCIENCE EDUCATION: THE MICROCULTURE OF EMERGING INQUIRY-BASED SCIENCE INSTRUCTION IN AN URBAN, LOW SOCIOECONOMIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SCIENCE LAB.
- Creator
-
Dahl, Kimberly, Holt, Larry, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This ethnographic study of emerging inquiry-based science instruction in an urban, low socioeconomic elementary school science lab was designed to gain insight into the perspectives of the teacher and students. The study involved a Central Florida elementary school whose population was over 80 percent African-American. In this six month study, the researcher examined the classroom setting of a science lab teacher and her fourth and fifth grade students during a six month period of time. Data...
Show moreThis ethnographic study of emerging inquiry-based science instruction in an urban, low socioeconomic elementary school science lab was designed to gain insight into the perspectives of the teacher and students. The study involved a Central Florida elementary school whose population was over 80 percent African-American. In this six month study, the researcher examined the classroom setting of a science lab teacher and her fourth and fifth grade students during a six month period of time. Data sources included interviews, field notes, reflections, and student work , which were used to identify the emerging themes and patterns in the study. The emergent themes were grouped into two categories: the perspective of the teacher and students in the inquiry environment and the microculture of the teacher and students in that environment. The teacher's perspectives on instructional strategies, standard based instructional guidelines, and the realities of teaching in an urban low socioeconomic setting were the major emergent themes. The students' perspectives into environment and sense-making of elementary school students were the other major emergent themes. Chapter I provides background and the significance of the study. Chapter II provides a research of the literature surrounding inquiry-based instruction in science education. Chapter III describes the methodology, specifically the ethnographic approach to this study. A metaphoric journey down the river of perspectives in science lab classroom sets the tone for Chapter IV. This chapter provides a "view from the shore," an introduction to the general background of the elementary school. Chapter V explores the teacher perspectives, and uses vignettes to analyze instructional strategies, questioning, assessment, standards state and district guideline and the realities of teaching. Chapter VI discusses the student perspectives, and uses vignettes to analyze behaviors and actions, responsibility of learners, assessment, and ways of knowing. Chapter VII pulls together conclusions, implications, and recommendations for further research.This study contributes to the total body of research of science education in two ways: 1. It provides student and teacher perspectives on science in an urban, low socioeconomic elementary school. 2. It provides research with a teacher and student perspective of inquiry-based science instruction.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000064, ucf:46128
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000064
- Title
- MOLECULAR TYPING OF MYCOBACTERIAL ISOLATES CULTURED FROM THE TISSUE OF INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (CROHN'S DISEASE) PATIENTS.
- Creator
-
Adams, Leanne M, Naser, Saleh, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The role of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis (MAP) in the etiology and pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) including Crohn's Disease (CD), has been investigated. The fastidious characteristics and cross reactivity of MAP with other members in Mycobacteria have produced significant challenges in their detection and identification. In this two year pilot study, an array of three PCR molecular assays based on the detection of sequences from the16S rRNA, IS1245, and IS900...
Show moreThe role of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis (MAP) in the etiology and pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) including Crohn's Disease (CD), has been investigated. The fastidious characteristics and cross reactivity of MAP with other members in Mycobacteria have produced significant challenges in their detection and identification. In this two year pilot study, an array of three PCR molecular assays based on the detection of sequences from the16S rRNA, IS1245, and IS900 genes, belonging to members of the MAC, have been developed and optimized into a common protocol to be used as a rapid and accurate diagnostic tool regarding M. avium complex (MAC) infection. The PCR protocol time was reduced by half, and the sensitivity and specificity of the molecular assays has been significantly improved barring the need for southern hybridization. This improved methodology was employed for the molecular typing of MAC in 100 resected, full-thickness tissue samples removed from IBD patients. The tissue samples were homogenized, decontaminated, and inoculated into two mycobacterial culture media systems. A total of 328 Bactec and Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube (MIGT) cultures were evaluated for positive MAC growth. Harvested cells were then subjected to genomic DNA extraction and subsequent PCR typing. The I6 S rRNA-based PCR resulted in detection of 26/28 (93%) MAC in Bactec cultures. Specifically, 25/28 (89%) of positive MAC indicated the presence of IS1245 specific to M. avium subsp avium (MAV), and 6/28 (21%) produced results consistent with the presence of IS900 following nested PCR. Moreover, 20/100 (20%) of MGIT cultures were positive for MAP. Sequence analysis was performed on amplified regions of the IS900 element from seven isolates. A nucleotide alignment revealed that 2/7 isolates demonstrated 100% homology to Bovine MAP and 5/7 isolates showed 96-99% homology to sequenced Bovine MAP published in GenBank. The detection of at least two Bovine derived MAP in IBD tissue will have great impact on the epidemiology and reclassification of IBD. The significant homology of the other five isolates to Bovine derived MAP suggests a diversity in the geographical distribution of MAP regarding Johne's disease and CD. Ultimately, the etiology, diagnosis, and the treatment of IBD as well as control and prevention measures may be enhanced with better tools for investigating emerging infectious diseases.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000031, ucf:46125
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000031
- Title
- MOTIVATIONS FOR ENTERPRISE RESOURCE PLANNING (ERP) SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION IN PUBLIC VERSUS PRIVATE SECTOR ORGANIZATIONS.
- Creator
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Harrison, Joycelyn Lorraine, Bozeman, William, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The goal of this research was to increase the knowledge base regarding Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software implementation, particularly in the public sector. To this end, factors regarding benefits sought through ERP system implementation and critical factors surrounding successful ERP implementation were identified. In addition, the perception of project team members' satisfaction with modules implemented and their concerns about implementing ERP software were identified in this...
Show moreThe goal of this research was to increase the knowledge base regarding Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software implementation, particularly in the public sector. To this end, factors regarding benefits sought through ERP system implementation and critical factors surrounding successful ERP implementation were identified. In addition, the perception of project team members' satisfaction with modules implemented and their concerns about implementing ERP software were identified in this study. The results of this study provided recommendations for public and private sector organizations in order to increase their opportunity for successful ERP system implementation.The literature review and results of this study found suggested that the benefits sought during ERP system implementation were consistent among public and private-sector organizations. Benefits such as increased standardization, better reporting, and reduced operational costs were recognized as goals of ERP implementation. Factors that attributed to successful ERP system implementations were top management support, and knowledgeable project managers and team members. The t-test analyses found differences among the two groups, public and private sector organizations, regarding some benefits sought and the level of satisfaction with some modules.The study included recommendations for organizations to fully research ERP functionality prior to implementation, implement strong change management, use other means of measuring return on investment, ensure employee buy in and top management involvement, and avoid scope creep.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000093, ucf:46126
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000093
- Title
- AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE APPARENT OVER-REPRESENTATION OF BLACKS IN EDUCABLE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED PROGRAMS IN K-12 SCHOOLS WITHIN THE 67 FLORIDA PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS.
- Creator
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Thomson, Arlene H., Murray, Barbara, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Placement into educable mentally handicapped (EMH) programs is necessary for some students in order to allow them the opportunity to receive an education appropriate for their special needs. Nonetheless, identification as EMH is often perceived as negative and demeaning. Decades of research have substantiated the over-representation of black students into certain categories of special education, including EMH, in comparison to white and Hispanic students. This disparity has raised questions...
Show morePlacement into educable mentally handicapped (EMH) programs is necessary for some students in order to allow them the opportunity to receive an education appropriate for their special needs. Nonetheless, identification as EMH is often perceived as negative and demeaning. Decades of research have substantiated the over-representation of black students into certain categories of special education, including EMH, in comparison to white and Hispanic students. This disparity has raised questions within schools, academe and research communities, and legislative and governing bodies as to the causes, compelling factors, and related variables impacting the phenomenon. This study investigated the apparent over-representation of blacks identified as EMH in the 67 public school districts in Florida in 2001-2002. It also analyzed the effects certain school district characteristics had on the identification of white, black, and Hispanic students as EMH. Analysis of data derived from the Florida Department of Education database for school year 2001-2002 led to the following findings: (1) there was over-representation of blacks in EMH within the 67 public school districts in Florida, since results showed that blacks were identified as EMH 2.5 times more often than whites and Hispanics; (2) socioeconomic status of school districts had a significant effect on the identification of black students as EMH,for example, when the school district was identified as a high socioeconomic status district, there was a greater likelihood that a larger proportion of black students would be identified as EMH; (3) as the wealth of school districts rose, there was a significant likelihood that the proportion of black students identified as EMH would also rise; (4) black students had a greater likelihood of being identified as EMH in suburban school districts; (5) blacks were over-identified in school districts that had 60,000 to 89,000 students; (6) when there was a high percentage of white, full-time, non-instructional staff (80% or more) in school districts, blacks had a greater likelihood of being over-identified as EMH; (7) blacks were three times more likely to be identified as EMH regardless of the type of degrees teachers had; and, (8) as district expenditure per student (FTE) increased, the tendency for over-identification of blacks as EMH decreased. For every variable analyzed, the proportion of black students identified as EMH was significant when compared to the proportions of white and Hispanic students also identified as EMH.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000004, ucf:46121
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000004
- Title
- INTERACTIVITY AND USER-HETEROGENEITY IN ON DEMAND BROADCAST VIDEO.
- Creator
-
Tantaoui El Araki, Mounir, Hua, Kien A., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Video-On-Demand (VOD) has appeared as an important technology for many multimedia applications such as news on demand, digital libraries, home entertainment, and distance learning. In its simplest form, delivery of a video stream requires a dedicated channel for each video session. This scheme is very expensive and non-scalable. To preserve server bandwidth, many users can share a channel using multicast. Two types of multicast have been considered. In a non-periodic multicast setting, users...
Show moreVideo-On-Demand (VOD) has appeared as an important technology for many multimedia applications such as news on demand, digital libraries, home entertainment, and distance learning. In its simplest form, delivery of a video stream requires a dedicated channel for each video session. This scheme is very expensive and non-scalable. To preserve server bandwidth, many users can share a channel using multicast. Two types of multicast have been considered. In a non-periodic multicast setting, users make video requests to the server; and it serves them according to some scheduling policy. In a periodic broadcast environment, the server does not wait for service requests. It broadcasts a video cyclically, e.g., a new stream of the same video is started every t seconds. Although, this type of approach does not guarantee true VOD, the worst service latency experienced by any client is less than t seconds. A distinct advantage of this approach is that it can serve a very large community of users using minimal server bandwidth. In VOD System it is desirable to provide the user with the video-cassette-recorder-like (VCR) capabilities such as fast-forwarding a video or jumping to a specific frame. This issue in the broadcast framework is addressed, where each video and its interactive version are broadcast repeatedly on the network. Existing techniques rely on data prefetching as the mechanism to provide this functionality. This approach provides limited usability since the prefetching rate cannot keep up with typical fast-forward speeds. In the same environment, end users might have access to different bandwidth capabilities at different times. Current periodic broadcast schemes, do not take advantage of high-bandwidth capabilities, nor do they adapt to the low-bandwidth limitation of the receivers. A heterogeneous technique is presented that can adapt to a range of receiving bandwidth capability. Given a server bandwidth and a range of different client bandwidths, users employing the proposed technique will choose either to use their full reception bandwidth capability and therefore accessing the video at a very short time, or using part or enough reception bandwidth at the expense of a longer access latency.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000085, ucf:46129
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000085
- Title
- THE EFFECTS OF PSUEDO-ALTRUISTIC BEHAVIOR ON THE LIKELIHOOD OF RECIPROCITY AND PERCEPTIONS OF THE SOURCE.
- Creator
-
Rule, Reagan, Pryor, Burt, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The current study examines the roles of expectancy disconfirmation and pseudo-altruistic behaviors as communication strategies to increase receiver compliance, and their effects on perceptions of the source, including credibility and likeability ratings. While adding to the previous research, this investigation examines the effects on compliance when pseudo-altruistic practices are employed in a sales situation. Additionally, subjects' compliance responses in the treatment groups are analyzed...
Show moreThe current study examines the roles of expectancy disconfirmation and pseudo-altruistic behaviors as communication strategies to increase receiver compliance, and their effects on perceptions of the source, including credibility and likeability ratings. While adding to the previous research, this investigation examines the effects on compliance when pseudo-altruistic practices are employed in a sales situation. Additionally, subjects' compliance responses in the treatment groups are analyzed for relationships between compliance and several possible mediators, including participant's evaluations of the source, and feelings of obligation and guilt. A focus group was held to discuss the face validity of the scenarios. Additionally, a pilot study was conducted to verify the operationalization of the independent variable, and to reveal any items that needed to be modified before the actual study was conducted. 141 undergraduate students were assigned to one of six treatment groups, and responded to the scenario and questionnaire. Five-point Likert type scales were used for the source factor and compliance items, and seven-point semantic differential scales were used for the items which measured source perceptions. Additionally, an optional open-ended item was employed for subjects to explain the motives behind their decisions. Analysis of the data showed that participants in the pseudo-altruistic treatment conditions were more likely to return to Store or Dealership A, or tipped the server more than usual. They also rated the source as more expert and of higher character in the treatment groups that the neutral, control groups.This increase in compliance was consistent across all three scenarios. Regression analyses also revealed that source factors including concern, helpfulness, unexpected behavior, expertise, character, honesty, and likeability predicted 26% of the compliance variance. In conclusion, subjects were more likely to comply in the pseudo-altruistic treatment condition, regardless of the scenario. Their compliance is attributed to feelings of liking and higher ratings of the source, which facilitated reciprocal altruism and benefited the salesperson or server for their selfless behavior.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000067, ucf:46130
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000067
- Title
- PREDICTING LICENSING EXAMINATION PERFORMANCE WITH COGNITIVE STYLE AND REACTIVE BEHAVIOR PATTERN ASSESSMENTS.
- Creator
-
Combs, Daniel Paul, Dziuban, Charles D., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Candidates for Florida real estate sales associate licensure responded to a two-part questionnaire based on William A. Long's Reactive Behavior Patterns Theory and Robert J. Sternberg's Triarchic Theory of Intelligence. Examination scores were converted to a dichotomous pass/fail variable based on the Florida Real Estate Commission-mandated cut-off score of 75 correctly answered questions out of 100. The candidates' responses to the questionnaire comprising the Long-Dziuban Inventory and the...
Show moreCandidates for Florida real estate sales associate licensure responded to a two-part questionnaire based on William A. Long's Reactive Behavior Patterns Theory and Robert J. Sternberg's Triarchic Theory of Intelligence. Examination scores were converted to a dichotomous pass/fail variable based on the Florida Real Estate Commission-mandated cut-off score of 75 correctly answered questions out of 100. The candidates' responses to the questionnaire comprising the Long-Dziuban Inventory and the Cognitive Strengths Task List based on Sternberg's theory, were crosstabulated with pass/fail to identify differential passing proportions, if any, based on reactive behavior pattern and/or cognitive strength. An ANOVA procedure was used with the raw scores to determine whether statistically significant differences in mean exam scores existed between the four Long Types and the three Cognitive Types adapted from Sternberg's theory. The data were subjected to similar analyses to ascertain whether the ancillary traits described by Long were predictive of exam performance. A crosstabulation of Long Type by Cognitive (Sternberg) Type was performed to find out if any significant relationships existed between the several dimensions of the Long-Dziuban Inventory and the Cognitive Strengths Task List. The results revealed a moderate statistically significant relationship between exam performance and cognitive strength, with analytical types and creative types having the greatest exam success. Tenuous relationships were identified between exam performance and the Long types and traits and between the Long-based and the Sternberg-based components of the research instrument. Although the results of this study did not establish definitive relationships between the Long and Sternberg constructs, by combining them into a measure of cognitive style, it forged a framework for future research into the relationship between licensing examination performance and cognitive styles. Within this framework are theiiicomponents of a predictive model potentially useful for identifying not only real estate licensing exam performance but also for identifying persons likely to succeed in the real estate industry
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000036, ucf:46119
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000036