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- Title
- NOVEL FACIAL IMAGE RECOGNITION TECHNIQUES EMPLOYINGPRINCIPAL COMPONENT ANALYSIS.
- Creator
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ABDELWAHAB, MOATAZ, Mikhael, Wasfy, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Recently, pattern recognition/classification has received considerable attention in diverse engineering fields such as biomedical imaging, speaker identification, fingerprint recognition, and face recognition, etc. This study contributes novel techniques for facial image recognition based on the Two dimensional principal component analysis in the transform domain. These algorithms reduce the storage requirements by an order of magnitude and the computational complexity by a factor of 2 while...
Show moreRecently, pattern recognition/classification has received considerable attention in diverse engineering fields such as biomedical imaging, speaker identification, fingerprint recognition, and face recognition, etc. This study contributes novel techniques for facial image recognition based on the Two dimensional principal component analysis in the transform domain. These algorithms reduce the storage requirements by an order of magnitude and the computational complexity by a factor of 2 while maintaining the excellent recognition accuracy of the recently reported methods. The proposed recognition systems employ different structures, multicriteria and multitransform. In addition, principal component analysis in the transform domain in conjunction with vector quantization is developed which result in further improvement in the recognition accuracy and dimensionality reduction. Experimental results confirm the excellent properties of the proposed algorithms.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001977, ucf:47465
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001977
- Title
- EVALUATION OF IMMUNOGENICITY OF TRANSGENIC CHLOROPLAST DERIVED PROTECTIVE ANTIGEN OF BACILLUS ANTHRACIS.
- Creator
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Koya, Vijay, Daniell, Henry, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Anthrax, a fatal bacterial infection is caused by Bacillus anthracis, a gram-positive, spore forming, capsulated, rod shaped organism. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) lists anthrax as Category A biological agent due to its severity of impact on human health, high mortality rate, acuteness of the disease and potential for delivery as a biological weapon. The currently available human vaccine in the United States (AVA anthrax vaccine adsorbed) is prepared from Alum adsorbed formalin treated...
Show moreAnthrax, a fatal bacterial infection is caused by Bacillus anthracis, a gram-positive, spore forming, capsulated, rod shaped organism. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) lists anthrax as Category A biological agent due to its severity of impact on human health, high mortality rate, acuteness of the disease and potential for delivery as a biological weapon. The currently available human vaccine in the United States (AVA anthrax vaccine adsorbed) is prepared from Alum adsorbed formalin treated supernatant culture of toxigenic, non-encapsulated strain of Bacillus anthracis with the principle component being protective antigen (PA83). Evaluation of anthrax vaccine given to nearly 400,000 US military personnel by Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) showed adverse effects such as flu-like symptoms, local pain, large degree of inflammation, edema, malaise, rash, arthralgia, and headache following vaccination. All the adverse reactions are attributed to the composition of vaccine components. These vaccine preparations contain trace contaminants of lethal and edema factors that contribute to the adverse side effects. Also, the current method of vaccine manufacture has limited production capacity.The production of PA83, in plants through chloroplast genetic engineering might eliminate the concerns of adverse side effects and the levels of expression would ensure the availability of vaccine for the human population in an environmentally friendly approach. The primary concern is whether the PA83 purified from transgenic chloroplasts is as immunogenic as the PA83 in the AVA. For this, PA83 has been expressed in transgenic chloroplasts of Nicotiana tabacum var. petit Havana, by inserting the pag (2205 bp) with the N-terminal 6X histidine tag, into the chloroplast genome by homologous recombination. Chloroplast integration of the pag was confirmed by PCR and Southern analysis. The PA83 protein was detected in transgenic chloroplasts by immunoblot analysis using anti-PA83 antibodies. Maximum expression levels of PA83 (14.17% TSP) were observed in mature leaves upon continuous illumination, due to the presence psbA 5'UTR, a light and developmentally regulated translation enhancer sequence. The PA83 has been purified by affinity chromatography using Ni resin columns. Chloroplast derived PA83 was functional in vitro and was able to lyse the mouse macrophages when combined with the lethal factor. The in vitro assays showed that the crude extracts contained up to 20ug/ml of functional PA83.The immunization studies of PA83 on Balb/c mice, revealed highly immunogenic IgG titers. Subcutaneous immunization with purified chloroplast derived PA83 with adjuvant yielded IgG titers up to 1:320,000, similar to that of the group immunized with PA83 derived from Bacillus anthracis. Immunization of groups with PA83 combined with alhydrogel adjuvant showed four - eight times higher immune response than the groups without adjuvant. The higher expression levels of PA83 in transgenic chloroplasts might ensure the availability of anthrax vaccine to the general public and the high immune response observed in the mouse model would enable the replacement of the current AVA with a cleaner and safer vaccine.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000298, ucf:46213
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000298
- Title
- EXAMINING FACULTY SOCIALIZATION THROUGH THE LENS OF TRANSFORMATIVE LEARNING.
- Creator
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Plant, Jennifer, King, Kathy (Kathleen), Cox, Thomas, Campbell, Laurie, Marshall, Nancy, Mazerolle, Stephanie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Socialization may be described as a process in which an individual learns and takes on the knowledge, values, attitudes, and expectations of a group within an organization (Corcoran (&) Clark 1984; Staton (&) Darling, 1989), ultimately leading to the development of a professional identity that includes attributes of the group (Merton, Reader, (&) Kendall, 1957). Much of the literature regarding professional and organizational socialization experiences of new faculty focus solely on either...
Show moreSocialization may be described as a process in which an individual learns and takes on the knowledge, values, attitudes, and expectations of a group within an organization (Corcoran (&) Clark 1984; Staton (&) Darling, 1989), ultimately leading to the development of a professional identity that includes attributes of the group (Merton, Reader, (&) Kendall, 1957). Much of the literature regarding professional and organizational socialization experiences of new faculty focus solely on either clinically trained faculty or academically trained faculty, with minimal research comparing the professional and organizational socialization experiences of both degree types. Therefore, this research study explored the professional and organizational socialization experiences of new clinically trained and academically trained faculty. A qualitative phenomenological research design was implemented to explore these experiences and emergent themes revealed from the research study. During the data analysis process, there were ten clinically trained and academically trained faculty themes that emerged from the interviews and represented similarities and differences in professional and organizational socialization experiences of the faculty groups. Those themes included: self-awareness, clinician to academic, how to be an academic, mentoring, orientation, research preparation, lack of andragogy, graduate student experience, role balancing, and learn as you go. The participants' professional and organizational socialization experiences within each degree type reflected different, yet similar findings, as both groups encountered difficulties socializing into their respective faculty roles. The information gained through this research may lead to practices and program development that may improve the efficacy of professional and organizational tactics used to prepare future faculty members and for those already active in faculty member roles.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007075, ucf:51995
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007075
- Title
- Digital Image Processing by the Two-Dimensional Discrete Fourier Transform Method.
- Creator
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Joels, Lyman F., null, null, Engineering
- Abstract / Description
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Florida Technological University College of Engineering Thesis; The present study was conducted to ascertain undergraduate views about the effectiveness of International Teaching Assistants (ITAs) in the American classroom. The study was administered to a stratified cluster sampling by college of the target population, undergraduate students at the University of Central Florida, in Orlando, Florida. The instrument used, Questionnaire of Undergraduates about International Teaching Assistants ...
Show moreFlorida Technological University College of Engineering Thesis; The present study was conducted to ascertain undergraduate views about the effectiveness of International Teaching Assistants (ITAs) in the American classroom. The study was administered to a stratified cluster sampling by college of the target population, undergraduate students at the University of Central Florida, in Orlando, Florida. The instrument used, Questionnaire of Undergraduates about International Teaching Assistants (QUITA) as developed by Wanda Fox (1990), is composed of a total of 40 items regarding personal and academic background, cultural exposure to and views about non-native speakers of English, and ITA-classroom effectiveness and problem-solving strategies. On the basis of data from the Fall 1998 semester, approximately 15% of the total number of ITA-taught course sections per college were surveyed. The subjects responded anonymously using computerized answer sheets. Upon completion of the data collection phase, all surveys were analyzed for response frequencies. In addition, background and demographic information regarding the participants and information regarding undergraduate exposure to IT As and IT A instruction were also summarized. The Likert-type items were combined to reveal an overall ATITA (Attitude toward International Teaching Assistants) score. The results of the ATITA portion of the study indicate that undergraduate student views toward IT As and IT A instruction are between neutral and mildly positive. Furthermore, survey responses indicated that undergraduates resolve conflicts involving IT As through personal means. The closing recommendations suggest maintaining open lines of communication between undergraduates, ITAs, and administrators alike.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1973
- Identifier
- CFR0004782, ucf:52960
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFR0004782
- Title
- High Performance Techniques for Face Recognition.
- Creator
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Aldhahab, Ahmed, Mikhael, Wasfy, Atia, George, Jones, W Linwood, Wei, Lei, Elshennawy, Ahmad, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The identification of individuals using face recognition techniques is a challenging task. This is due to the variations resulting from facial expressions, makeup, rotations, illuminations, gestures, etc. Also, facial images contain a great deal of redundant information, which negatively affects the performance of the recognition system. The dimensionality and the redundancy of the facial features have a direct effect on the face recognition accuracy. Not all the features in the feature...
Show moreThe identification of individuals using face recognition techniques is a challenging task. This is due to the variations resulting from facial expressions, makeup, rotations, illuminations, gestures, etc. Also, facial images contain a great deal of redundant information, which negatively affects the performance of the recognition system. The dimensionality and the redundancy of the facial features have a direct effect on the face recognition accuracy. Not all the features in the feature vector space are useful. For example, non-discriminating features in the feature vector space not only degrade the recognition accuracy but also increase the computational complexity.In the field of computer vision, pattern recognition, and image processing, face recognition has become a popular research topic. This is due to its wide spread applications in security and control, which allow the identified individual to access secure areas, personal information, etc. The performance of any recognition system depends on three factors: 1) the storage requirements, 2) the computational complexity, and 3) the recognition rates.Two different recognition system families are presented and developed in this dissertation. Each family consists of several face recognition systems. Each system contains three main steps, namely, preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification. Several preprocessing steps, such as cropping, facial detection, dividing the facial image into sub-images, etc. are applied to the facial images. This reduces the effect of the irrelevant information (background) and improves the system performance. In this dissertation, either a Neural Network (NN) based classifier or Euclidean distance is used for classification purposes. Five widely used databases, namely, ORL, YALE, FERET, FEI, and LFW, each containing different facial variations, such as light condition, rotations, facial expressions, facial details, etc., are used to evaluate the proposed systems. The experimental results of the proposed systems are analyzed using K-folds Cross Validation (CV).In the family-1, Several systems are proposed for face recognition. Each system employs different integrated tools in the feature extraction step. These tools, Two Dimensional Discrete Multiwavelet Transform (2D DMWT), 2D Radon Transform (2D RT), 2D or 3D DWT, and Fast Independent Component Analysis (FastICA), are applied to the processed facial images to reduce the dimensionality and to obtain discriminating features. Each proposed system produces a unique representation, and achieves less storage requirements and better performance than the existing methods.For further facial compression, there are three face recognition systems in the second family. Each system uses different integrated tools to obtain better facial representation. The integrated tools, Vector Quantization (VQ), Discrete cosine Transform (DCT), and 2D DWT, are applied to the facial images for further facial compression and better facial representation. In the systems using the tools VQ/2D DCT and VQ/ 2D DWT, each pose in the databases is represented by one centroid with 4*4*16 dimensions. In the third system, VQ/ Facial Part Detection (FPD), each person in the databases is represented by four centroids with 4*Centroids (4*4*16) dimensions. The systems in the family-2 are proposed to further reduce the dimensions of the data compared to the systems in the family-1 while attaining comparable results. For example, in family-1, the integrated tools, FastICA/ 2D DMWT, applied to different combinations of sub-images in the FERET database with K-fold=5 (9 different poses used in the training mode), reduce the dimensions of the database by 97.22% and achieve 99% accuracy. In contrast, the integrated tools, VQ/ FPD, in the family-2 reduce the dimensions of the data by 99.31% and achieve 97.98% accuracy. In this example, the integrated tools, VQ/ FPD, accomplished further data compression and less accuracy compared to those reported by FastICA/ 2D DMWT tools. Various experiments and simulations using MATLAB are applied. The experimental results of both families confirm the improvements in the storage requirements, as well as the recognition rates as compared to some recently reported methods.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006709, ucf:51878
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006709
- Title
- On the range of the Attenuated Radon Transform in strictly convex sets.
- Creator
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Sadiq, Kamran, Tamasan, Alexandru, Nashed, M, Katsevich, Alexander, Dogariu, Aristide, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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In the present dissertation, we characterize the range of the attenuated Radon transform of zero, one, and two tensor fields, supported in strictly convex set. The approach is based on a Hilbert transform associated with A-analytic functions of A. Bukhgeim. We first present new necessary and sufficient conditions for a function to be in the range of the attenuated Radon transform of a sufficiently smooth function supported in the convex set. The approach is based on an explicit Hilbert...
Show moreIn the present dissertation, we characterize the range of the attenuated Radon transform of zero, one, and two tensor fields, supported in strictly convex set. The approach is based on a Hilbert transform associated with A-analytic functions of A. Bukhgeim. We first present new necessary and sufficient conditions for a function to be in the range of the attenuated Radon transform of a sufficiently smooth function supported in the convex set. The approach is based on an explicit Hilbert transform associated with traces of the boundary of A-analytic functions in the sense of A. Bukhgeim. We then uses the range characterization of the Radon transform of functions to characterize the range of the attenuated Radon transform of vector fields as they appear in the medical diagnostic techniques of Doppler tomography. As an application we determine necessary and sufficient conditions for the Doppler and X-ray data to be mistaken for each other. We also characterize the range of real symmetric second order tensor field using the range characterization of the Radon transform of zero tensor field.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005408, ucf:50437
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005408
- Title
- THE TRANSFORMATION AND DEMISE OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATIONS: CAUSES AND CATEGORIES.
- Creator
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Mehta, Devyani M, Turcu, Anca, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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In the recent years, the world has experienced devastating losses due to terrorist attacks. Research in the fields of causes of terrorism is abundant, but the amount of research on the end of terrorism does not equally measure up. This paper aims to add to the research focused on analyzing the factors which cause terrorist groups to transition away from violence. This paper introduces an original categorization of the factors which generate this transition. Factors belong to two categories:...
Show moreIn the recent years, the world has experienced devastating losses due to terrorist attacks. Research in the fields of causes of terrorism is abundant, but the amount of research on the end of terrorism does not equally measure up. This paper aims to add to the research focused on analyzing the factors which cause terrorist groups to transition away from violence. This paper introduces an original categorization of the factors which generate this transition. Factors belong to two categories: internal --decisions made by the terrorist organization, and external--actions or features pertaining to organization outside of non-terrorist organizations. These factors will be illustrated through examples of terrorist organizations and their activity. The purpose of this paper is to provide an original, comparative overview of those factors that may best illustrate the study of counterterrorism.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000026, ucf:45570
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000026
- Title
- PLANT-MADE ORAL VACCINES: EVALUATION OF CAPSULES.
- Creator
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New, James, Daniell, Henry, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Antigen expression through the Chloroplast Transformation Technology (CTT) produces bioencapsulated subunit-vaccines, capable of eliciting immune responses when delivered orally. Considerable challenges to effective plant-based vaccines are the normalization of dosage and preservation of accumulated antigen, which is complicated by variable high water content and protease activity. This study critically examines the efficacy of lyophilization in dehydrating plant-tissues and preserving plant...
Show moreAntigen expression through the Chloroplast Transformation Technology (CTT) produces bioencapsulated subunit-vaccines, capable of eliciting immune responses when delivered orally. Considerable challenges to effective plant-based vaccines are the normalization of dosage and preservation of accumulated antigen, which is complicated by variable high water content and protease activity. This study critically examines the efficacy of lyophilization in dehydrating plant-tissues and preserving plant-derived antigens with vaccine potential. Lyophilization was optimized through gravimetric analysis using lettuce expressing Protective Antigen (PA) of Bacillus anthracis (LS-HPAG) and the human autoantigen Proinsulin (Pins) fused to Cholera toxin subunit B (LS-CTB-Pins). Lyophilization for 48-hours was sufficient treatment to reduce lettuce to 4.57% of its original weight, which retained .058% water content in the bound state; these levels corresponded with oven-dried controls while antigen was stabilized for over a year of storage at room temperature. A simulated gastric fluid assay was applied to evaluate stability of plant derived antigens during digestion. It was observed that lettuce plant cells conferred protection through antigen bioencapsulation for up to an hour under enzymatic digestive conditions. LS-HPAG immunogenicity was then demonstrated through the induction of a PA-specific IgG response by through oral boosting of C57/BL6 test mice. Survival during toxin challenge demonstrated a protective immune response if 40% of animal immunized by plant-derived PA. Lastly, the inclusion of excipient and adjuvant additives will be considered and utilized for the development of prototype vaccine capsule formulations.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFH0003861, ucf:44689
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0003861
- Title
- Different Facial Recognition Techniques in Transform Domains.
- Creator
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Al Obaidi, Taif, Mikhael, Wasfy, Atia, George, Jones, W Linwood, Myers, Brent, Moslehy, Faissal, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The human face is frequently used as the biometric signal presented to a machine for identificationpurposes. Several challenges are encountered while designing face identification systems.The challenges are either caused by the process of capturing the face image itself, or occur whileprocessing the face poses. Since the face image not only contains the face, this adds to the datadimensionality, and thus degrades the performance of the recognition system. Face Recognition(FR) has been a major...
Show moreThe human face is frequently used as the biometric signal presented to a machine for identificationpurposes. Several challenges are encountered while designing face identification systems.The challenges are either caused by the process of capturing the face image itself, or occur whileprocessing the face poses. Since the face image not only contains the face, this adds to the datadimensionality, and thus degrades the performance of the recognition system. Face Recognition(FR) has been a major signal processing topic of interest in the last few decades. Most commonapplications of the FR include, forensics, access authorization to facilities, or simply unlockingof a smart phone. The three factors governing the performance of a FR system are: the storagerequirements, the computational complexity, and the recognition accuracy. The typical FR systemconsists of the following main modules in each of the Training and Testing phases: Preprocessing,Feature Extraction, and Classification. The ORL, YALE, FERET, FEI, Cropped AR, and GeorgiaTech datasets are used to evaluate the performance of the proposed systems. The proposed systemsare categorized into Single-Transform and Two-Transform systems. In the first category, the featuresare extracted from a single domain, that of the Two-Dimensional Discrete Cosine Transform(2D DCT). In the latter category, the Two-Dimensional Discrete Wavelet Transform (2D DWT)coefficients are combined with those of the 2D DCT to form one feature vector. The feature vectorsare either used directly or further processed to obtain the persons' final models. The PrincipleComponent Analysis (PCA), the Sparse Representation, Vector Quantization (VQ) are employedas a second step in the Feature Extraction Module. Additionally, a technique is proposed in whichthe feature vector is composed of appropriately selected 2D DCT and 2D DWT coefficients basedon a residual minimization algorithm.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007146, ucf:52295
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007146
- Title
- Phase transformation and growth kinetics in reaction zone between uranium alloy and zirconium diffusion barrier.
- Creator
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Park, Young Joo, Sohn, Yongho, Coffey, Kevin, Fang, Jiyu, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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U-10wt.%Mo (U10Mo) alloy as a part of monolithic fuel system is being developed under Material Management and Minimization Reactor Conversion (MMMRC) program, tasked with replacing high-enriched uranium (HEU) fuel with low-enriched uranium (LEU) fuel in civilian research and test reactors. Use of U10Mo fuel alloy entails a Zr diffusion barrier to avoid the undesirable interdiffusion and reactions between the U10Mo and Al-alloy cladding. To better understand the interaction between these fuel...
Show moreU-10wt.%Mo (U10Mo) alloy as a part of monolithic fuel system is being developed under Material Management and Minimization Reactor Conversion (MMMRC) program, tasked with replacing high-enriched uranium (HEU) fuel with low-enriched uranium (LEU) fuel in civilian research and test reactors. Use of U10Mo fuel alloy entails a Zr diffusion barrier to avoid the undesirable interdiffusion and reactions between the U10Mo and Al-alloy cladding. To better understand the interaction between these fuel system constituents, microstructural development and diffusion kinetics in U-Mo-Zr, U-Zr and fuel plate assembly processed by co-rolling and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) were investigated using a variety of analytical techniques accompanying scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy.Phase constituents, microstructure and diffusion kinetics between U10Mo and Zr were examined using solid-to-solid diffusion couples annealed at 650 (&)deg;C for 240, 480 and 720 hours. Concentration profiles were mapped as diffusion paths on the isothermal ternary phase diagram. Within the diffusion zone, single-phase layers of (?U,?Zr) were observed along with a discontinuous layer of Mo2Zr between the ?Zr and ?U layers. In the vicinity of Mo2Zr phase, islands of ?Zr phase were also found. In addition, acicular ?Zr and U6Zr3Mo phases were observed within the ?U(Mo). Growth rate of the interdiffusion-reaction zone was determined to be 1.81 (&)#215; 10-15 m2/sec at 650 (&)deg;C, however with an assumption of a certain incubation period.Investigation for interdiffusion and reaction between U and Zr were carried out using solid-to-solid diffusion couples annealed at 580, 650, 680 and 710 (&)deg;C. The interdiffusion and reaction layer consisted of ?U containing Zr acicular precipitate, ?' (oC4-variant) and (?U,?Zr) solid solution at 650, 680 and 710 (&)deg;C. The ?-UZr2 phase, instead of (?U,?Zr) solid solution phase, was observed in the couple annealed at 580 (&)deg;C. The interdiffusion fluxes and coefficients were determined for the ?U, (?U,?Zr) and ?-UZr2 (580 ?C only) phases using both Sauer-Freise and Boltzmann-Matano analyses. For the ?'-phase with negligible concentration gradient, integrated interdiffusion coefficients were determined via Wagner method. Marker plane was found in (?U,?Zr) (cI2) solid solution from the couples annealed at 650, 680 and 710 (&)deg;C and ?-UZr2 from the couple at 580 (&)deg;C. Intrinsic diffusion coefficients at the compositions corresponding to the marker plane were determined based on Heumann analysis: U intrinsically diffused an order magnitude faster than Zr. Arrhenius temperature-dependence, Darken relation, and comparison to existing literature data demonstrated consistency in results.Monolithic fuel plate assembly was fabricated by sequential process of (1) co-rolling to laminate the Zr barrier onto the U10Mo fuel alloy and (2) HIP to encase the fuel laminated with Zr, within the Al-alloy 6061 (AA6061). In this study, HIP process was carried out as functions of temperature (520, 540, 560 and 580 (&)deg;C for 90 minutes), time (45, 60, 90, 180 and 345 minutes at 560 (&)deg;C) with ramp-cool rate (35, 70 and 280 (&)deg;C/hour). At the interface between the U10Mo and Zr, following the co-rolling, the UZr2 phase was observed to develop adjacent to Zr, and the ?U phase was found between the UZr2 and U10Mo. Mo2Zr was found as precipitates mostly within the ?U phase. Observable growth due to HIP was only observed for the (Al,Si)3Zr phase found at the Zr/AA6061 interface, however, with a large activation energy of 457 kJ/mol. Decomposition of ?U into ?U and ?' was observed in the U10Mo alloy. The volume fraction of ? and ?' increased as the HIP temperature and ramp-cool rate decreased. The UC-UO2 inclusions within the U10Mo fuel alloy were observed, but the volume percent of the UC-UO2 inclusions within the U10Mo alloy, ranging from approximately 0.5 to 1.8, did not change as functions of HIP temperature and holding time. However, the inclusions located near the surface of the U10Mo alloy, were frequently observed to interfere the uniformity of interdiffusion and reaction between the U10Mo alloy and Zr diffusion barrier. The regions of limited interaction between the U10Mo and Zr barrier associated with UC-UO2 inclusions decreased with an increase in HIP temperature, however no significant trend was observed with an increase in HIP duration at 560 (&)deg;C.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFE0006371, ucf:51499
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006371
- Title
- Curvelets and the Radon Transform.
- Creator
-
Dickerson, Jill, Katsevich, Alexander, Tamasan, Alexandru, Moore, Brian, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Computed Tomography (CT) is the standard in medical imaging field. In this study, we look at the curvelet transform in an attempt to use it as a basis for representing a function. In doing so, we seek a way to reconstruct a function from the Radon data that may produce clearer results. Using curvelet decomposition, any known function can be represented as a sum of curvelets with corresponding coefficients. It can be shown that these corresponding coefficients can be found using the Radon data...
Show moreComputed Tomography (CT) is the standard in medical imaging field. In this study, we look at the curvelet transform in an attempt to use it as a basis for representing a function. In doing so, we seek a way to reconstruct a function from the Radon data that may produce clearer results. Using curvelet decomposition, any known function can be represented as a sum of curvelets with corresponding coefficients. It can be shown that these corresponding coefficients can be found using the Radon data, even if the function is unknown. The use of curvelets has the potential to solve partial or truncated Radon data problems. As a result, using a curvelet representation to invert radon data allows the chance of higher quality images to be produced. This paper examines this method of reconstruction for computed tomography (CT). A brief history of CT, an introduction to the theory behind the method, and implementation details will be provided.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004674, ucf:49852
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004674
- Title
- EFFICIENT LARGE SCALE TRANSIENT HEAT CONDUCTION ANALYSIS USING A PARALLELIZED BOUNDARY ELEMENT METHOD.
- Creator
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Erhart, Kevin, Divo, Eduardo, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
A parallel domain decomposition Laplace transform Boundary Element Method, BEM, algorithm for the solution of large-scale transient heat conduction problems will be developed. This is accomplished by building on previous work by the author and including several new additions (most note-worthy is the extension to 3-D) aimed at extending the scope and improving the efficiency of this technique for large-scale problems. A Laplace transform method is utilized to avoid time marching and a Proper...
Show moreA parallel domain decomposition Laplace transform Boundary Element Method, BEM, algorithm for the solution of large-scale transient heat conduction problems will be developed. This is accomplished by building on previous work by the author and including several new additions (most note-worthy is the extension to 3-D) aimed at extending the scope and improving the efficiency of this technique for large-scale problems. A Laplace transform method is utilized to avoid time marching and a Proper Orthogonal Decomposition, POD, interpolation scheme is used to improve the efficiency of the numerical Laplace inversion process. A detailed analysis of the Stehfest Transform (numerical Laplace inversion) is performed to help optimize the procedure for heat transfer problems. A domain decomposition process is described in detail and is used to significantly reduce the size of any single problem for the BEM, which greatly reduces the storage and computational burden of the BEM. The procedure is readily implemented in parallel and renders the BEM applicable to large-scale transient conduction problems on even modest computational platforms. A major benefit of the Laplace space approach described herein, is that it readily allows adaptation and integration of traditional BEM codes, as the resulting governing equations are time independent. This work includes the adaptation of two such traditional BEM codes for steady-state heat conduction, in both two and three dimensions. Verification and validation example problems are presented which show the accuracy and efficiency of the techniques. Additionally, comparisons to commercial Finite Volume Method results are shown to further prove the effectiveness.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0001291, ucf:46881
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001291
- Title
- MODELING AND ANALYSIS OF THE EDS MAGLEV SYSTEM WITH THE HALBACH MAGNET ARRAY.
- Creator
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Ko, Wonsuk, Ham, Chan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The magnetic field analysis based on the wavelet transform is performed. The Halbach array magnetic field analysis has been studied using many methods such as magnetic scalar potential, magnetic vector potential, Fourier analysis and Finite Element Methods. But these analyses cannot identify a transient oscillation at the beginning stage of levitation. The wavelet transform is used for analyzing the transient oscillatory response of an EDS Maglev system. The proposed scheme explains the under...
Show moreThe magnetic field analysis based on the wavelet transform is performed. The Halbach array magnetic field analysis has been studied using many methods such as magnetic scalar potential, magnetic vector potential, Fourier analysis and Finite Element Methods. But these analyses cannot identify a transient oscillation at the beginning stage of levitation. The wavelet transform is used for analyzing the transient oscillatory response of an EDS Maglev system. The proposed scheme explains the under-damped dynamics that results from the cradle's dynamic response to the irregular distribution of the magnetic field. It suggests this EDS Maglev system that responds to a vertical repulsive force could be subject to such instability at the beginning stage of a low levitation height. The proposed method is useful in analyzing instabilities at the beginning stage of levitation height. A controller for the EDS maglev system with the Halbach array magnet is designed for the beginning stage of levitation and after reaching the defined levitation height. To design a controller for the EDS system, two different stages are suggested. Before the object reaches a stable position and after it has reached a stable position. A stable position can be referred to as a nominal height. The former is the stage I and the latter is the stage II. At the stage I, to achieve a nominal height the robust controller is investigated. At the stage II, both translational and rotational motions are considered for the control design. To maintain system stability, damping control as well as LQR control are performed. The proposed method is helpful to understand system dynamics and achieve system stability.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001697, ucf:47196
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001697
- Title
- MAGNETICS DESIGN FOR HIGH CURRENT LOW VOLTAGE DC/DC CONVERTER.
- Creator
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zhou, hua, Wu, Thomas Xinzhang, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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With the increasing demand for small and cost efficient DC/DC converters, the power converters are expected to operate with high efficiency. Magnetics components design is one of the biggest challenges in achieving the higher power density and higher efficiency due to the significant portion of magnetics components volume in the whole power system. At the same time, most of the experimental phenomena are related to the magnetics components. So, good magnetics components design is one of the...
Show moreWith the increasing demand for small and cost efficient DC/DC converters, the power converters are expected to operate with high efficiency. Magnetics components design is one of the biggest challenges in achieving the higher power density and higher efficiency due to the significant portion of magnetics components volume in the whole power system. At the same time, most of the experimental phenomena are related to the magnetics components. So, good magnetics components design is one of the key issues to implement low voltage high current DC/DC converter. Planar technology has many advantages. It has low profile construction, low leakage inductance and inter-winding capacitance, excellent repeatability of parasitic properties, cost efficiency, great reliability, and excellent thermal characteristics. On the other side, however, planar technology also has some disadvantages. Although it improves thermal performance, the planar format increases footprint area. The fact that windings can be placed closer in planar technology to reduce leakage inductance also often has an unwanted effect of increasing parasitic capacitances. In this dissertation, the planar magnetics designs for high current low voltage applications are thoroughly investigated and one CAD design methodology based on FEA numerical analysis is proposed. Because the frequency dependant parasitic parameters of magnetics components are included in the circuit model, the whole circuit analysis is more accurate. When it is implemented correctly, integrated magnetics technique can produce a significant reduction in the magnetic core content number and it can also result in cost efficient designs with less weight and smaller volume. These will increase the whole converter's power density and power efficiency. For high output current and low output voltage applications, half bridge in primary and current doublers in secondary are proved to be a very good solution. Based on this topology, four different integrated magnetics structures are analyzed and compared with each other. One unified model is introduced and implemented in the circuit analysis. A new integrated magnetics component core shape is proposed. All simulation and experimental results verify the integrated magnetics design. There are several new magnetics components applications shown in the dissertation. Active transient voltage compensator is a good solution to the challenging high slew rate load current transient requirement of VRM. The transformer works as an extra voltage source. During the transient periods, the transformer injects or absorbs the extra transient to or from the circuit. A peak current mode controlled integrated magnetics structure is proposed in the dissertation. Two transformers and two inductors are integrated in one core. It can force the two input capacitors of half bridge topology to have the same voltage potential and solve the voltage unbalance issue. The proposed integrated magnetics structure is simple compared with other methods implementing the current mode control to half bridge topology. Circuit analysis, simulation and experimental results verify the feasibility of these applications.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001823, ucf:47341
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001823
- Title
- TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP QUALITIES OF FLORIDA COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENT GOVERNMENT ADVISORS.
- Creator
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Rath, Thomas, House, Jess, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
College student government organizations (SGOs) have the important responsibility for achievement of purposes that serve students and the college community. They are also the student voice in higher education governance. Effective student leadership is vital to the effective fulfillment of these purposes, as is the role of the student government advisor in ensuring the success of student leadership and leadership development. Transformational leadership (Bass, 1985) is seen as a way of...
Show moreCollege student government organizations (SGOs) have the important responsibility for achievement of purposes that serve students and the college community. They are also the student voice in higher education governance. Effective student leadership is vital to the effective fulfillment of these purposes, as is the role of the student government advisor in ensuring the success of student leadership and leadership development. Transformational leadership (Bass, 1985) is seen as a way of reaching higher levels of leadership effectiveness and organizational performance, and it has been advanced for use in SGOs. This study examined the extent to which community college student government advisors who exhibited transformational leadership qualities had an influence on the organizational outcomes of community college student governments. Several research questions were formulated to guide this examination. Surveys which included an instrument to measure the effectiveness of reaching organizational outcomes and the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire for Research (MLQ 5X) (Bass & Avolio, 1995, 2000) were given to Florida community college student government executive board members and their respective student government advisors. Anticipated findings included increased levels of organizational outcomes in those community college SGOs in which advisors exhibit greater levels of transformational leadership qualities. Analysis of the data yielded advisor and student government member demographics, and a strong level of fulfillment of organizational outcomes. Statistically significant positive correlations were found between student reported transformational leadership qualities of advisors and student ratings of achievement and importance of organizational outcomes. A statistically significant correlation was also found between student ratings of importance of organizational outcomes and student ratings of the achievement of organizational outcomes. This indicates the existence of a relationship between the transformational leadership qualities of Florida community college student government advisors and the perceived importance and achievement of student government organizational outcomes. Secondary results were also given. Results of this study suggest that Florida community college student government advisors who exhibited higher levels of transformational leadership qualities engendered higher levels of organizational outcomes in Florida community college student governments. Implications were discussed for the study findings, and recommendations for future research were made.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000771, ucf:46557
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000771
- Title
- THE EFFECT OF GENDER AND LEADERSHIP STYLES ON EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION.
- Creator
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Williams, Brittany, Ciuchta, Michael, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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To ensure the success of a company, it is essential for supervisors to interact effectively with the employees they oversee. Effective interactions between supervisor and employee go hand-in-hand with employee satisfaction, which can impact firm performance. The purpose of this thesis is to examine key drivers of employee satisfaction. Specifically, this thesis tests whether or not employees with supervisors of the same sex as themselves are more satisfied than employees with supervisors of...
Show moreTo ensure the success of a company, it is essential for supervisors to interact effectively with the employees they oversee. Effective interactions between supervisor and employee go hand-in-hand with employee satisfaction, which can impact firm performance. The purpose of this thesis is to examine key drivers of employee satisfaction. Specifically, this thesis tests whether or not employees with supervisors of the same sex as themselves are more satisfied than employees with supervisors of the opposite sex. It also compares and contrasts the level of satisfaction an employee has in correspondence with transformational and transactional leadership styles and whether this relationship is contingent on the employee's level of work experience.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFH0004285, ucf:44968
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004285
- Title
- EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT TECHNIQUES FOR HIGH VOLTAGE CAPACITOR CHARGING METHODS.
- Creator
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Islas, Michael, Batarseh, Issa, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The goal of this thesis is to design and fabricate a DC-to-DC converter for use in high-voltage capacitor charging applications. The primary objectives include increasing the efficiency and reducing the cost of traditional methods used for this application. Traditional methods were not designed specifically for high-voltage capacitor charging and were thus very primitive and exhibited lower efficiency. Prior methods made use of a high voltage power supply and a current limiting resistor or...
Show moreThe goal of this thesis is to design and fabricate a DC-to-DC converter for use in high-voltage capacitor charging applications. The primary objectives include increasing the efficiency and reducing the cost of traditional methods used for this application. Traditional methods were not designed specifically for high-voltage capacitor charging and were thus very primitive and exhibited lower efficiency. Prior methods made use of a high voltage power supply and a current limiting resistor or control scheme. The power supply would often only operate efficiently at a single voltage value and would thus function poorly over a range used in charging a capacitor. The resistor would also dissipate a fair amount of power, also limiting efficiency. This design makes use of a traditional flyback topology utilizing a controller developed specifically for this application, centering the design approach on the LT3750. Hence, taking full advantage of the efficiency improving control scheme it provides. Additionally, through the use of advanced techniques to eliminate noise and power losses, the efficiency may be significantly improved. A detailed theoretical analysis of the charger is also presented. The analysis will then be applied to optimization techniques to select ideal component values to meet specific design specifications. In this research, a specifically designed and developed prototype will be used to experimentally verify the theoretical work and optimization techniques.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- Identifier
- CFE0002899, ucf:48025
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002899
- Title
- Reflectance Transformation Imaging: Documenting Incised Graffiti in the Maya Lowlands.
- Creator
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Gill, Rachel, Kovacevich, Brigitte, Branting, Scott, Callaghan, Michael, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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In the late 19th century, explorers identified graffiti etched in stucco walls of residences, palaces, and temples in the Maya Lowlands. By the mid-20th century, scholars acknowledged that the ancient Maya produced these incised images. Today, archaeologists struggle with documenting these instances of graffiti with precision and accuracy, often relying solely on to-scale line drawings to best represent the graffitied image they see before them. These images can be complex, multilayered, and...
Show moreIn the late 19th century, explorers identified graffiti etched in stucco walls of residences, palaces, and temples in the Maya Lowlands. By the mid-20th century, scholars acknowledged that the ancient Maya produced these incised images. Today, archaeologists struggle with documenting these instances of graffiti with precision and accuracy, often relying solely on to-scale line drawings to best represent the graffitied image they see before them. These images can be complex, multilayered, and difficult to see so identifying the sequence of creation of the incisions can be challenging. Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) is a method that uses a moving light source and photography in order to visualize, interact with, and analyze a three-dimensional object in a two-dimensional image. Performed on a series of 20 unique graffiti from the Maya archaeological site of Holtun, RTI showed promise as a viable technique for documenting and preserving graffiti as cultural heritage and for providing new information about an enigmatic aspect of Maya archaeology. Additionally, RTI is compared to other common methods used to document incised graffiti in the Maya lowland area including to-scale line drawing, tracing, photogrammetry, and scanning to show the new and unique information and data that can be gathered from this method. Finally, RTI is a low-cost, low-maintenance alternative data-gathering method for highly remote archaeological projects where other technology is difficult to obtain and use in the field setting.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007005, ucf:52049
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007005
- Title
- Transformative Learning:Improving Teachers' Cultural Competencies Through Knowledge and Practice of Ubuntu Pedagogy.
- Creator
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Blackwood, Alecia, Hopp, Carolyn, Biraimah, Karen, Little, Mary, Boote, David, Washington, Kevin, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The pursuit of this ethnographic study was inspired by my lived experiences as an urban school teacher for 18 years, as well as, the experiences of a group of other urban teachers. The study explored the following question: Does knowledge and practice of Ubuntu pedagogy help to improve teachers' cultural competencies in an urban school? The research documents how knowledge and practice of the three pillars of Ubuntu pedagogy help to transform the perspective of urban teachers. The three...
Show moreThe pursuit of this ethnographic study was inspired by my lived experiences as an urban school teacher for 18 years, as well as, the experiences of a group of other urban teachers. The study explored the following question: Does knowledge and practice of Ubuntu pedagogy help to improve teachers' cultural competencies in an urban school? The research documents how knowledge and practice of the three pillars of Ubuntu pedagogy help to transform the perspective of urban teachers. The three pillars are (1) Humanism and Ubuntu Competency, (2) Collaboration and Partnership, and (3) Relationship and Learning Community. Data were collected using multiple techniques, which included semi-structured interviews, book study, reflective digital journal notes, observations and a focus group. Seven participants, who were interviewed, were selected using convenience sampling (Creswell, 2013). Transformative learning and Ubuntu pedagogy are constructs in the conceptual framework that guided the process of the research design. For the data analysis procedures, the description of the interpretation of the cultural-sharing group provided more insights about teachers' experiences in an urban school. Recommendations were made based on the data collected, which provided evidence of how the knowledge and practice of Ubuntu pedagogy helped to improve teachers' cultural competencies. The teachers' focus group, book study reflections and classroom observations revealed that all the teachers experienced levels of a disorienting dilemma, a shift in frame of reference that was more inclusive and self-reflective.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007157, ucf:52326
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007157
- Title
- THE EFFECTS OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIPON EMPLOYEESÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂ' PERCEIVED LEADERSHIP EFFECTIVENESSIN PUBLIC ORGANIZATIONS: FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY CASE.
- Creator
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KARACA, HASAN, KAPUCU, NAIM, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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As the capacity of public leaders to bring about change is increasingly questioned, public agencies have come under pressure to transform and innovate. More research is needed to identify how leaders who promote innovation, creativity, and adaptability affect the performance of public organizations. Constant improvement of organizations and individuals encourages leaders to innovate, evaluate risks as opportunities, and tackle the status quo. This raises the significance of how...
Show moreAs the capacity of public leaders to bring about change is increasingly questioned, public agencies have come under pressure to transform and innovate. More research is needed to identify how leaders who promote innovation, creativity, and adaptability affect the performance of public organizations. Constant improvement of organizations and individuals encourages leaders to innovate, evaluate risks as opportunities, and tackle the status quo. This raises the significance of how transformational leadership contributes to organizational performance and reacts to public agenciesÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂ' environment, and how it might reorganize them. The present study examines the relationship between transformational leadership behaviors and perceived leadership effectiveness in public organizations, particularly Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The study specifically focuses on FEMA as an independent agency and as an agency under the Department of Homeland Security. It also measures transformational leadership behaviors and explores how they relate to public employeesÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂ' perceptions of leadership effectiveness as reported by the 2002, 2006, and 2008 Federal Human Capital Surveys (FHCS). Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to validate the construct validity for the perceived leadership effectiveness measurement model. Structural equation modeling was conducted to examine the study hypotheses. This study has found that transformational leadership behaviorsÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂ--idealized influence, intellectual stimulation, and inspirational motivationÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂ-- all have a significant relationship with perceived leadership effectiveness. Each dimension of transformational leadership has a positive effect on employeesÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂ' perceptions of leadership effectiveness, with intellectual stimulation having the highest effect. The standardized regression weights of exogenous variables are: .24 for idealized influence, .48 for intellectual stimulation, and .29 for inspirational motivation. Overall, these predictor variables accounted for 86% of the variance in perceived leadership effectiveness. Findings of the study reveals several organizational, managerial, and policy implications relating to increasing the effects of transformational leadership behaviors on employeesÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂ' perceived leadership effectiveness and organizational performance. The study points out the significance of communication and information sharing, and providing sufficient opportunities to do a better job in public organizations. The findings also confirm that the leaders are required to obtain inspirational motivation behaviors and use them to give a feeling of personal empowerment to the employees.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- Identifier
- CFE0003397, ucf:48421
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003397