Current Search: combat (x)
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Title
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Design of a Framework for Sharing and Generating Combat Damage Assessment(CDA) of a HLA/RTI Federation.
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Creator
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Park, Hongseon, Lee, Gene, Rabelo, Luis, Elshennawy, Ahmad, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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In this paper, a new framework for sharing Combat Damage Assessment(CDA) is proposed to find out the differences of each CDA system between military combat units belonging to their own federate in a HLA/RTI federation. When there are engagements in a battle among combat units belonging to their own federate in the HLA/RTI federation, each result of damage assessments is very different. This affects the HLA/RTI federation's confidence and needed to be overcome because it is also one of the...
Show moreIn this paper, a new framework for sharing Combat Damage Assessment(CDA) is proposed to find out the differences of each CDA system between military combat units belonging to their own federate in a HLA/RTI federation. When there are engagements in a battle among combat units belonging to their own federate in the HLA/RTI federation, each result of damage assessments is very different. This affects the HLA/RTI federation's confidence and needed to be overcome because it is also one of the major issues to generate reliable engagement data. Also, a RTI can generate only qualitative data about combat damage while quantitative data can be useful.Therefore, the new framework for sharing CDA and generating quantitative CDA data is proposed to solve the problems with a CDA Module of one federate which is considered to have a standard engagement logic. The new framework is also tested through two case studies by using two federates of a HLA 1516 / M(&)#196;K RTI federation. This new framework will be helpful to increase the interoperability in a HLA/RTI federation, provide an environment in which all developers can reuse the proposed new framework, and generate quantitative engagement data through this new framework.
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Date Issued
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2017
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Identifier
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CFE0006775, ucf:51843
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006775
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Title
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Odorants, memory, and presence in warfighters: Do the scents of war matter?.
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Creator
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Munyan, Benson, Neer, Sandra, Beidel, Deborah, Jentsch, Florian, Joseph, Dana, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Background: Exposure therapy (EXP) is a first-line intervention for combat-related PTSD. EXP works by repeatedly exposing the patient to the feared stimuli, situation, or physical sensations in the absence of actual danger until the stimuli no longer evoke maladaptive responses. Over the past decade, multiple technologies have been introduced to augment the EXP process by presenting multi-sensory cues (e.g., sights, smells, sounds) to increase patients' sense of presence. Exploratory research...
Show moreBackground: Exposure therapy (EXP) is a first-line intervention for combat-related PTSD. EXP works by repeatedly exposing the patient to the feared stimuli, situation, or physical sensations in the absence of actual danger until the stimuli no longer evoke maladaptive responses. Over the past decade, multiple technologies have been introduced to augment the EXP process by presenting multi-sensory cues (e.g., sights, smells, sounds) to increase patients' sense of presence. Exploratory research has only broadly examined the effect of odorants on the patient's sense of presence during simulated exposure tasks. This study hypothesized that those with autobiographical memories similar to the virtual environment (VE) and those who received odorants would report experiencing more presence than experimental controls. Methods: 61 veterans and civilian subjects were randomized and asked to participate in a virtual environment simulating a routine OIF/OEF/OND convoy. The effects of odorants and autobiographical memory on presence were assessed via electrodermal activity, respiration, heart rate variability, and self-report measures. Results: Odorants did not significantly influence presence. A relationship between military experience and presence, HRV, and realism was observed. Conclusion: Odorants did not have a statistically significant effect on presence while engaged in a simulated exposure task, which was inconsistent with previous research. The rationale for these findings and recommendations for future research are made.
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Date Issued
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2018
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Identifier
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CFE0007060, ucf:51999
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007060
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Title
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Neurological Reactivity to Personalized Odors and Sounds in Combat-related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.
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Creator
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Gramlich, Michael, Neer, Sandra, Beidel, Deborah, Bohil, Corey, Batien, Bryan, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a neurophysiological procedure that offers immense clinical utility due to its cost effectiveness, ease of use, and mobile application. Using fNIRS to measure neurological reactions to personalized trauma-related cues might strengthen diagnostic screening, tailor treatment planning, and improve detection of remission among individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Odors elicit strong emotional responses but remain underutilized in...
Show moreFunctional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a neurophysiological procedure that offers immense clinical utility due to its cost effectiveness, ease of use, and mobile application. Using fNIRS to measure neurological reactions to personalized trauma-related cues might strengthen diagnostic screening, tailor treatment planning, and improve detection of remission among individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Odors elicit strong emotional responses but remain underutilized in clinical research. This fNIRS study examined whether personalizing combat-related odors and sounds to have a higher or lower match to distressing combat experiences increased the observed neurological effect among combat veterans with and without combat-related PTSD. This study gathered data from 58 male, right-handed combat veterans of Iraq or Afghanistan, ages 26 to 68, recruited from the community. The results indicated a significant increase in activation at the left ventral lateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC) following an interaction between higher PTSD severity and higher match ratings for the combat-related odors (R2 = .20, p = .003; f2 = .25). Furthermore, the left VLPFC showed a significant increase in activation following an interaction between having a PTSD diagnosis and higher match ratings for the combat-related odors (R2 = .25, p = .005; f2 = .33). The findings for the combat-related sounds were less clear. The left VLPFC is associated with facilitating regulation of memory and emotional processes. Overall, the presentation of odors with higher similarity to distressing combat experiences altered the neurological response of the prefrontal cortex and may contribute to better understanding of the neurophysiological mechanisms of combat-related PTSD.
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Date Issued
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2019
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Identifier
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CFE0007809, ucf:52357
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007809
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Title
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THE EFFECT OF COMBAT EXERCISES ON CARDIOVASCULAR RESPONSE: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY.
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Creator
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Gantt, MeLisa, Sole, Mary Lou, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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PURPOSE: Hypertension (HTN) affects one in every three adults in the United States. Often associated with the older population, this silent killer has emerged in an unsuspecting group, young military soldiers. With the rapid succession of multiple deployments, long intervals between blood pressure (BP) assessments, and the absence of cardiovascular (CV) measures during the pre and post deployment health screenings; soldiers may be at higher risk for HTN than their civilian counterparts of the...
Show morePURPOSE: Hypertension (HTN) affects one in every three adults in the United States. Often associated with the older population, this silent killer has emerged in an unsuspecting group, young military soldiers. With the rapid succession of multiple deployments, long intervals between blood pressure (BP) assessments, and the absence of cardiovascular (CV) measures during the pre and post deployment health screenings; soldiers may be at higher risk for HTN than their civilian counterparts of the same age. The purpose of this study was to explore real-time continuous CV measures of soldiers before, during, and after exposure to a simulated combat stressor as well as to assess which personal characteristics played a significant role. METHODS: Applying the Allostasis/Allostatic Load theoretical framework, a repeated measure quasi-experimental design was used to compare the CV measures of two groups: one exposed to a physical combat stressor (experimental) and the other exposed to a psychological combat stressor (control). A convenience sample of 60 college Army Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets were fitted with Tiba Medical Ambulo 2400 ambulatory BP monitors for 48 continuous hours. Several CV indices were analyzed using one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), paired t-test, and independent sample t-test. Four instruments (Participant Information Sheet, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Paintball Perceived Stress Questionnaire, and Army Physical Fitness Test) were used to assess which characteristics played the most significant role in the CV response. RESULTS: Demographic characteristics between the two 30-cadet groups were not statistically different, with the exception of deployment history (experimental = 4, control= 0). Hours after the stress exposure, subjects in the experimental group had a higher mean awake systolic blood pressure (SBP) when compared to the control group (113.76 mm Hg vs 102.98 mm Hg, p= 009). When assessing pre and post stressor morning BP surge and evening BP decline, the control group showed the biggest change. Significant bivariate correlations (p < .05) found that: Females consistently had higher pulse rates (PR) throughout each of the phases. Age positively correlated with elevated BP during the stressor, and increased morning BP surge post stressor. African Americans had higher sleep BPs pre stressor, and decreased SBP recovery post stressor; Hispanics had higher PRs during and after the stressor. Waist circumference positively correlated with elevated BP morning surge pre stressor but, body mass index (BMI) positively correlated with elevated BP morning surge post stressor as well as elevated BP during the stressor. Family history of HTN played no significant role; however, deployment history correlated with mean awake SBP post stressor. Trait anxiety scores negatively correlated with SBP recovery while state anxiety scores positively correlated with post stressor awake mean arterial pressure and evening SPB decline. Perceived stress during the stressor negatively correlated with post stressor SBP morning surge with females reporting higher anxiety and stress. Finally, Army Physical Fitness (APFT) total scores as well as APFT run scores negatively correlated with pre and post stressor sleep PRs. DISCUSSION/IMPLICATIONS: Age, female gender, African American descent, Hispanic ethnicity, waist circumference, BMI, previous deployment history, level of fitness and the psychological stress state during and after a stressor played significant roles in soldiersÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂ' CV response. SBP was the most dynamic and informative of the CV indices and a psychological stressor was comparable to a physical stressor when observing the residual effect of stress. If a combat exercise was enough of a stressor to produce residual CV effects that lasted well into following morning, the residual effect of a lengthy strenuous deployment may be alarming. This study not only provided a snapshot of the CV health of incoming young soldiers, but also provided evidence to support policy change regarding the implementation of regular CV health assessments before and after deployment.
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Date Issued
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2010
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Identifier
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CFE0003390, ucf:48458
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003390
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Title
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THE ANATOMY OF A FIGHT SCENE: CHARACTERIZATION THROUGH STAGE COMBAT AND MOVEMENT.
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Creator
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Davis, Nona, Boyd, Belinda, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The study of stage combat is designed to fabricate the illusion of physical combat without causing harm to the performers. Most research in this field does not take into account the characterization of the actor during the training of a fight scene. An actor primarily learns the stunt choreography of the scene and often times the subtleties of the character is often forgotten. Scenes that involve physical contact are an essential aspect of the dramatic action. My aim is to eventually devise a...
Show moreThe study of stage combat is designed to fabricate the illusion of physical combat without causing harm to the performers. Most research in this field does not take into account the characterization of the actor during the training of a fight scene. An actor primarily learns the stunt choreography of the scene and often times the subtleties of the character is often forgotten. Scenes that involve physical contact are an essential aspect of the dramatic action. My aim is to eventually devise a process that will consistently create fight scenes that maintain the integrity of the fight director's work as well as the mastery of the actor's character composition. I am aware this is an ambitious project therefore will I approach this endeavor in two stages. This document will cover the first stage of this project: the investigation of the current process of several professionals who have varying experiences with fight choreography. I will propose and explore the significance of a series of questions a director, actor and fight choreographer should answer before embarking upon a fight sequence successfully. Questions such as: How important is the stunt physiologically and psychologically on the character? Does gender play a role in a fight sequence? Do size, age, and race play a role on character choice in a sequence? Why did the character choose that weapon? Where did that character learn to fight and why in that style?
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Date Issued
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2011
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Identifier
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CFE0003627, ucf:48862
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003627
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Title
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Posttraumatic Stress Disorder or Combat Experience? A Functional Near-infrared Spectroscopy Study of Trauma-related Auditory and Olfactory Cues.
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Creator
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Gramlich, Michael, Neer, Sandra, Bowers, Clint, Beidel, Deborah, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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While the clinical communities are aware of the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among OEF/OIF/OND veterans, further efforts are necessary to bolster comprehensive strategies for assessment and treatment. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a combat-related PTSD symptom provocation paradigm would elicit unique neurological responses via functional near-infrared spectroscopy across three groups (-) combat veterans with PTSD, combat veterans without PTSD, and...
Show moreWhile the clinical communities are aware of the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among OEF/OIF/OND veterans, further efforts are necessary to bolster comprehensive strategies for assessment and treatment. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a combat-related PTSD symptom provocation paradigm would elicit unique neurological responses via functional near-infrared spectroscopy across three groups (-) combat veterans with PTSD, combat veterans without PTSD, and nonmilitary participants without PTSD. Results indicated that combat veterans with PTSD demonstrated significant activation during exposure to a trauma-related sound compared to nonmilitary personnel at channels 14 (d = 1.03) and 15 (d = 1.30) and combat veterans without PTSD at channel 14 (d = 0.87). Specifically, this increased neural activation was approximately located in the right superior/medial prefrontal cortex (BA 9/10), associated with evaluating cue-familiarity and emotional detachment. Results were less clear with respect to a combat-related odor. These results suggest a specific neurophysiological response to trauma-related cues and if replicated, may offer a biomarker for combat-related PTSD. Such a response could provide incremental validity over diagnostic assessments alone and assist in planning and monitoring of treatment outcome.
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Date Issued
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2017
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Identifier
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CFE0006596, ucf:51297
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006596
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Title
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Effects of a 10-Week Introductory Judo Course on Postural Control During Reactionary Bilateral Gripping Task With Varied Stances and Lower Body Power Performance.
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Creator
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Muddle, Tyler, Fukuda, David, Hoffman, Jay, Stout, Jeffrey, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study is twofold: 1.) Examine the effects of 10-weeks of an introductory judo course on postural control during maximal bilateral isometric handgrip testing using different stance conditions and lower body power performance, and 2.) To analyze the relationship between maximal bilateral handgrip exertions on postural control during varied stance conditions. METHODS: Twenty recreationally active men and women divided into two an experimental group, (JDO) (n =...
Show morePURPOSE: The purpose of the present study is twofold: 1.) Examine the effects of 10-weeks of an introductory judo course on postural control during maximal bilateral isometric handgrip testing using different stance conditions and lower body power performance, and 2.) To analyze the relationship between maximal bilateral handgrip exertions on postural control during varied stance conditions. METHODS: Twenty recreationally active men and women divided into two an experimental group, (JDO) (n = 10; 21.70 (&)#177; 3.83 y; 169.91 (&)#177; 6.01 cm; 73.89 (&)#177; 12.10 kg; 19.01 (&)#177; 8.06% BF), and a control group, (CON) (n = 10; 21.50 (&)#177; 2.84 y; 170.06 (&)#177; 8.28 cm; 76.62 (&)#177; 12.03 kg; 22.41 (&)#177; 6.64% BF), participated in this study. Both groups completed pre-testing, performing nine randomly assigned experimental trials measuring center of pressure (COP) variables during the performance of a bilateral reactionary gripping task using varied stance conditions. Each trial consisted of bilateral maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) measured simultaneously with a handgrip dynamometer, three times with a neutral (N), dominant foot forward (D), and non-dominant (ND) foot forward stance. Furthermore, participants performed three bilateral countermovement jumps (CMJ) trials. All trials were completed while standing on a portable force platform, which was used, in conjunction with corresponding software, to track COP amplitude in the mediolateral (COPML) and anteroposterior (COPAP) directions, COP mean velocity (MV), and COP area (AREA) while gripping the dynamometer, and ground reaction forces, peak force (CMJPKF), peak power (CMJPP), and rate of power development (CMJRPD), during CMJ performance. Subjects were instructed to grasp the dynamometers as forcefully as possible for ?5-sec during each trial. All trials were separated by a recovery period of 60-sec. A Waterloo Handedness and Footedness Questionnaire was used to determine subject upper and lower body laterality. Participants repeated the testing protocol following the conclusion of the 10-week course. RESULTS: No significant interactions were observed in MVC strength of the DOM and NON hands during any of the three stance conditions following the 10-week judo course. Furthermore, no significant interactions were observed for any of the COP variables. However, a significant main effect of stance was observed for COPML, MV, and AREA. Results did reveal that CMJPP significantly improved in the JDO group (PRE: 3584.70 (&)#177; 716.59W - POST: 3750.10 (&)#177; 699.61W) following the 10-week judo course, while no change was observed in the CON group (PRE: 3693.10 (&)#177; 1083.77W (-) POST: 3654.40 (&)#177; 1023.94W). However, no change was seen in CMJPKF or CMJRPD. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this investigation indicate that 10-weeks of an introductory judo course may increase CMJPP, however, has no effect on postural control or bilateral MVC strength of the DOM and NON hand during varied stance conditions. Furthermore, results reveal that bilateral MVC exertion has no influence on postural control performed during varied stance conditions.
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Date Issued
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2016
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Identifier
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CFE0006148, ucf:51157
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006148
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Title
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The Effects of Social Support and Working Alliance on Latino-American Male Combat Veterans.
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Creator
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Duran, Lloyd, Leon, Ana, Steen, Julie, Molina, Olga, Wan, Thomas, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The negative effects of traumatic combat experiences on combatants' psychological functioning is well documented in the literature. The Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) has resulted in many veterans returning from deployments with mental health conditions related to trauma exposure, such as posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, general anxiety, and suicidality. Past researchers found significant ethnic differences in psychological functioning, with Latino-American veterans reporting more...
Show moreThe negative effects of traumatic combat experiences on combatants' psychological functioning is well documented in the literature. The Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) has resulted in many veterans returning from deployments with mental health conditions related to trauma exposure, such as posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, general anxiety, and suicidality. Past researchers found significant ethnic differences in psychological functioning, with Latino-American veterans reporting more symptoms of PTSD. Furthermore, Latino-American cultural values place importance on collective orientation and secrecy of mental health concerns which may affect treatment. Thus, this study built on limited research about Latino-American male combat veterans by focusing on the effects of social support and working therapeutic alliance during mental health treatment. Using a cross-sectional design, a sample of 42 GWOT Latino-American Veterans undergoing mental health treatment at a VA Medical Center in the Southeastern U.S. was recruited and surveyed. Participants completed a set of nine questionnaires (Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation, PTSD Checklist (-) Military Version, Beck Depression Inventory (-) 2nd Edition, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Postdeployment Social Support Scale, Combat Exposure Scale, Working Alliance Inventory (-) Short Form. Network Orientation Scale, and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support). Descriptive and bivariate statistics were calculated, and regression models were tested. The results indicate that social support improved overall PTSD and intrusive symptoms, separately, but working therapeutic alliance had a marginal effect on avoidance symptoms. Working alliance was found to exert a negative effect on depressive symptoms. The study did not yield evidence to support significant effects of social support or working alliance on suicidality and generalized anxiety. These results have implications for mental health service systems and for future research. Therapists serving veterans with PTSD should work with the patient/client to increase perceived social support. When serving veterans with depressive symptoms, therapists should place special effort on developing a strong working alliance.?
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Date Issued
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2017
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Identifier
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CFE0006872, ucf:51749
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006872
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Title
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Sleep Disturbances Among Combat Military Veterans: A Comparative Study.
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Creator
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Stout, Jeremy, Beidel, Deborah, Neer, Sandra, Bowers, Clint, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The sleep characteristics of 37 military combat veterans (17 with PTSD and 20 without PTSD) of recent wars were analyzed to determine if combat deployment, with its resultant wartime sleep restriction, may be an alternative explanation for the sleep duration complaints found among combat veterans with PTSD (as determined by PCL-M scores). Participants completed sleep actigraphy and a self-report measure of sleep duration over a 1-week period. Although strongly correlated, a comparison of...
Show moreThe sleep characteristics of 37 military combat veterans (17 with PTSD and 20 without PTSD) of recent wars were analyzed to determine if combat deployment, with its resultant wartime sleep restriction, may be an alternative explanation for the sleep duration complaints found among combat veterans with PTSD (as determined by PCL-M scores). Participants completed sleep actigraphy and a self-report measure of sleep duration over a 1-week period. Although strongly correlated, a comparison of subjective (e.g., self-report) and objective (e.g., actigraphy) sleep duration revealed a significant difference in sleep duration based on method of assessment. With respect to group differences, actigraphy data did not reveal a significant difference in sleep duration based on the presence of PTSD, whereas there was a significant difference based on self-report. Veterans without PTSD self- reported a significantly longer sleep duration than what was recorded by actigraphy; a difference of one hour and 11 minutes (p = 0.000); the difference was one hour and nine minutes. In an effort to determine why veterans without PTSD perceived that they slept longer than they actually did, factors related to sleep quality were examined. The results indicated that measures of hyper arousal (anger, anxiety, nightmares) were significantly correlated with sleep duration, suggesting a pattern of autonomic arousal that is known to interfere with restful sleep. Further research is necessary to determine if the sleep of veteran with PTSD is actually different from that of combat veterans without PTSD, and if such differences are actually amenable to treatment for PTSD.
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Date Issued
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2015
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Identifier
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CFE0006232, ucf:51055
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006232
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Title
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CRITICAL VELOCITY IS ASSOCIATED WITH COMBAT SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE MEASURES IN A SPECIAL FORCES UNIT.
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Creator
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Hoffman, Mattan, Stout, Jeffrey, Fukuda, David, Fisher, Thomas, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Over recent years, military research has focused on ways of being able to predict operational success and readiness through the development of simulated operational tasks measuring the physical limits of the soldier. Therefore, to properly prepare the tactical athlete for the demands and rigor of combat, accurate assessment of baseline physical abilities and limitations are necessary. Currently, western armies use a basic physical fitness test, which has been heavily argued to have no bearing...
Show moreOver recent years, military research has focused on ways of being able to predict operational success and readiness through the development of simulated operational tasks measuring the physical limits of the soldier. Therefore, to properly prepare the tactical athlete for the demands and rigor of combat, accurate assessment of baseline physical abilities and limitations are necessary. Currently, western armies use a basic physical fitness test, which has been heavily argued to have no bearing on operational readiness, thus they are in the process of transitioning to a more specific combat readiness test. However, specific assessments to predict operational success/readiness are inefficient or lacking. A single test that requires minimal time, but provides simultaneous assessment of the necessary physical characteristics (i.e. aerobic and anaerobic capacities) may provide a unique opportunity to enhance soldier performance assessment. The 3-min all-out run, is a relatively new test that has been recently validated. It provides two performance estimates, critical velocity (CV) and anaerobic distance capacity (ADC). CV provides a measure of the individual's aerobic capacity, while the ADC is an indicator of anaerobic capacity. The purpose of this study, therefore, is to examine the relationship between CV and ADC from the 3-min all-out run and combat specific tasks (2.5-km run, 50-m casualty carry, and repeated sprints with rush shooting) in an elite special force unit. Eighteen male soldiers (age: 19.9 (&)#177; 0.8 years; height: 177.6 (&)#177; 6.6 cm; body mass: 74.1 (&)#177; 5.8 kg; BMI: 23.52 (&)#177; 1.63) from an elite combat special force unit of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) volunteered to complete a 3-min all-out run, while wearing a global positioning system (GPS) unit, and a battery of operational CST (2.5-km run, 50-m casualty carry and 30-m repeated sprints with (")rush(") shooting (RPTDS)). Estimates of CV and ADC from the 3-min all-out run were determined from the downloaded GPS data with CV calculated as the average velocity of the final 30 s of the run and ADC as the velocity-time integral above CV. CV exhibited significant negative correlations with the 2.5-km run time (r = - 0.62, p (<) 0.01), and RPTDS time (r = - 0.71p (<) 0.01). However, CV (r = - 0.31) or ADC (r = 0.16) did not show any correlation with the 50-m casualty carry run. In addition, CV was positively correlated with the average velocity during the 2.5- km run (r = 0.64, p (<) 0.01). Stepwise regression identified CV as the most significant performance measure associated with the 2.5-km run time, and BMI and CV measures as significant predictors of RPTDS time (R2= 0.67, p (<) 0.05). Our main findings indicate that CV was highly related to performance during CST, including the 2.5-km run and RPTDS, but not the 50-m casualty carry. Using the 3-min all-out run as a testing measurement offers a more efficient and simpler way in assessing both aerobic and anaerobic capabilities (CV and ADC) with-in a relatively large sample. In this regard, this method of testing may be conducive to a military type environment whether for selection purposes, to predict combat readiness, to prescribe a training program or just a need analysis for the company commander
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Date Issued
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2015
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Identifier
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CFE0005628, ucf:50227
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005628
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Title
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EFFECTS OF 3D STEREOSCOPY, VISUO-SPATIAL WORKING MEMORY, AND PERCEPTIONS OF SIMULATION EXPERIENCE ON THE MEMORIZATION OF CONFUSABLE OBJECTS.
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Creator
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Keebler, Joseph, Jentsch, Florian, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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This dissertation investigated the impact of active stereoscopic 3-dimensional (3D) imagery equipment and individual differences in visuo-spatial working memory (VSWM) capacity on retention of a set of similar, novel objects (i.e., armored military vehicles). Seventy-one participants were assessed on their visuo-spatial working memory using the Visual Patterns Test (Della Sala, Gray, Baddeley, & Wilson, 1997). They were then assigned to one of four different conditions (3D high VSWM, 3D low...
Show moreThis dissertation investigated the impact of active stereoscopic 3-dimensional (3D) imagery equipment and individual differences in visuo-spatial working memory (VSWM) capacity on retention of a set of similar, novel objects (i.e., armored military vehicles). Seventy-one participants were assessed on their visuo-spatial working memory using the Visual Patterns Test (Della Sala, Gray, Baddeley, & Wilson, 1997). They were then assigned to one of four different conditions (3D high VSWM, 3D low VSWM, 2D high VSWM, 2D low VSWM) based upon their visuo-spatial working memory. Participants were then trained to identify military vehicles using a simulation that presented the training stimuli in one of two dimensionalities, i.e. two dimensional (2D) or active stereoscopic three-dimensional (3D). Testing consisted of a vehicle memory training assessment, which challenged participants to choose the correct components of each vehicle immediately after studying; a measure of retention for military vehicles which asked participants to categorize the alliance and identify previously studied vehicles; and a transfer measure using video footage of actual military vehicles. The latter measures depicted military vehicles in an array of combat situations, and participants were asked to decide on whether or not to shoot each vehicle, as well as identify the vehicles. Testing occurred immediately after training. The moderating, as well as main effects, of VSWM were assessed. The mediating/moderating effects of several experiential factors were measured as well, including: immersion, presence, engagement, flow state, and technology acceptance. Findings indicate that perceptions of the simulation experience and VSWM are strong positive predictors of performance, while 3D was not predictive, and in some instances, significantly worse than the 2D condition. These findings indicate that individual differences in visual memory and user experiences during the SBT both are predictive factors in memory tasks for confusable objects. The SBT designed in this study also led to robust prediction of training outcomes on the final transfer task.
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Date Issued
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2011
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Identifier
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CFE0003939, ucf:48702
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003939
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Title
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Childhood Predictors in the Severity of Combat Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Veterans with Combat Related Exposure.
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Creator
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Bermes, Michael, Abel, Eileen, Burg, Mary, Steen, Julie, Johnson, Ann, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Emerging research suggests that childhood adversities may increase both the risk and symptomology of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in our veteran population. Over 40% of our reintegrating military veterans return with significant mental health issues led by combat-related PTSD. PTSD impacts veterans in numerous areas including unemployment, increased criminal justice involvement, increased treatment costs, divorce, co-morbid mental illness, greater levels of domestic violence,...
Show moreEmerging research suggests that childhood adversities may increase both the risk and symptomology of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in our veteran population. Over 40% of our reintegrating military veterans return with significant mental health issues led by combat-related PTSD. PTSD impacts veterans in numerous areas including unemployment, increased criminal justice involvement, increased treatment costs, divorce, co-morbid mental illness, greater levels of domestic violence, homelessness, high college dropout rates, suicide, and long term health problems. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of childhood adversities (abuse, neglect, and poverty) upon the severity of combat-related PTSD in veteran populations. Specifically, the researcher examines the direct effects of: (1) childhood trauma; (2) childhood neglect; and (3) childhood poverty (as assessed based on socioeconomic status [SES]) upon the severity of combat-related PTSD. This study of student veterans (n=102) receiving services from a veteran service center at a major metropolitan university in Central Florida is a non-experimental, explanatory, retrospective survey design using structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the relationships among study variables. Findings strongly supported a relationship between childhood trauma and neglect and the severity of combat-related PTSD. Similarly, findings also supported that no relationship existed between childhood SES and the severity of combat-related PTSD. Both childhood trauma and neglect were significantly associated with combat-related PTSD at an even greater effect than that of combat exposure. SES was not found to be significant in the severity of combat-related PTSD. The findings suggest that preventive screening policies to reduce costs and severity of combat-related PTSD might be needed.
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Date Issued
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2013
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Identifier
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CFE0004815, ucf:49739
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004815
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Title
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Appropriate Adjective: Executive Authority and the Classification of Enemy Combatants.
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Creator
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Davis, Taraleigh, Merriam, Eric, Bledsoe, Robert, Edwards, Barry, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Is the term enemy combatant an established legal category of persons under international law? Has the President exceeded his constitutional authority in classifying United States citizens who are suspected terrorists as enemy combatants? In 2018 a U.S. citizen was released after being held for 13 months as an enemy combatant. He was detained without being charged with a crime and without the ability to challenge the legality of his detention. This thesis serves two purposes. First, it will...
Show moreIs the term enemy combatant an established legal category of persons under international law? Has the President exceeded his constitutional authority in classifying United States citizens who are suspected terrorists as enemy combatants? In 2018 a U.S. citizen was released after being held for 13 months as an enemy combatant. He was detained without being charged with a crime and without the ability to challenge the legality of his detention. This thesis serves two purposes. First, it will seek to trace the history of the term enemy combatant and highlight the evolution of its use by the executive branch. This thesis then examines whether the executive has exceeded his constitutional authority to classify a United States citizen as an enemy combatant. While most of the literature focuses on the treatment and detention of enemy combatants, existing scholarship largely overlooks the issue of authority to classify enemy combatants. This thesis will argue that the executive is overstepping the boundaries of its presidential power when the executive branch creates the criteria (a legislative function) for enemy combatants and applies the criteria in the classification of enemy combatants (a judicial function). This qualitative study will use normative legal research focusing on the principles of the law in classifying a suspected terrorist as an enemy combatant as well as the legal history of the term. The analysis of the legal history of the term enemy combatant will be completed by content analysis using Nvivo 12 software of various government documents as well as case studies of enemy combatant cases.
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Date Issued
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2019
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Identifier
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CFE0007448, ucf:52703
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007448
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Title
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JUSTICE: THE USE OF FOOD, EDUCATION, AND THE LAW TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA.
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Creator
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Grandchamps, Nicholas, Naccarato-Fromang, Gina, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Human trafficking is an ever-growing crime in this century. It is estimated that there are 29.8 million slaves around the world today�16.36% of which are located in sub-Saharan Africa. The sub-Saharan region is a region in which human trafficking is combatted ineffectively due to a lack of food, lack of access to education, lack of post-education opportunities and lack of proper legislation. This thesis explores the environment in which human trafficking is taking place in sub-Saharan...
Show moreHuman trafficking is an ever-growing crime in this century. It is estimated that there are 29.8 million slaves around the world today�16.36% of which are located in sub-Saharan Africa. The sub-Saharan region is a region in which human trafficking is combatted ineffectively due to a lack of food, lack of access to education, lack of post-education opportunities and lack of proper legislation. This thesis explores the environment in which human trafficking is taking place in sub-Saharan Africa, and proposes potential changes that will theoretically disallow human trafficking to take place in the region. The only way in which an environment conducive to trafficking in persons will ever change is through establishing partnerships amongst governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other international organizations. Through the analysis of case law from the United Nations Human Trafficking Case Law Database, data from the World Bank, the United States State Department Trafficking in Persons Reports, the United Nations Global Reports on Human Trafficking, and various reports from NGOs, this thesis evaluates the approaches taken by various governments in sub-Saharan Africa to change the environment in which human trafficking thrives. Through raising awareness of the environment of sub-Saharan Africa, and by describing three ways in which human trafficking can be combatted effectively, such as the use of food, education, and the law, this thesis contributes not only to the legal discipline, but also to helping combat trafficking in persons effectively throughout the world.
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Date Issued
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2014
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Identifier
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CFH0004584, ucf:45203
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004584
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Title
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A Methodology on Weapon Combat Effectiveness Analytics using Big Data and Live, Virtual, or/and Constructive Simulations.
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Creator
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Jung, Won Il, Lee, Gene, Rabelo, Luis, Elshennawy, Ahmad, Ahmad, Ali, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The Weapon Combat Effectiveness (WCE) analytics is very expensive, time-consuming, and dangerous in the real world because we have to create data from the real operations with a lot of people and weapons in the actual environment. The Modeling and Simulation (M(&)S) of many techniques is used for overcoming these limitations. Although the era of big data has emerged and achieved a great deal of success in a variety of fields, most WCE research using the Defense Modeling and Simulation (DM(&)S...
Show moreThe Weapon Combat Effectiveness (WCE) analytics is very expensive, time-consuming, and dangerous in the real world because we have to create data from the real operations with a lot of people and weapons in the actual environment. The Modeling and Simulation (M(&)S) of many techniques is used for overcoming these limitations. Although the era of big data has emerged and achieved a great deal of success in a variety of fields, most WCE research using the Defense Modeling and Simulation (DM(&)S) techniques were studied without the help of big data technologies and techniques. The existing research has not considered various factors affecting WCE. This is because current research has been restricted by only using constructive simulation, a single weapon system, and limited scenarios. Therefore, the WCE analytics using existing methodologies have also incorporated the same limitations, and therefore, cannot help but get biased results.To solve the above problem, this dissertation is to initially review and compose the basic knowledge for the new WCE analytics methodology using big data and DM(&)S to further serve as the stepping-stone of the future research for the interested researchers. Also, this dissertation presents the new methodology on WCE analytics using big data generated by Live, Virtual, or/and Constructive (LVC) simulations. This methodology can increase the fidelity of WCE analytics results by considering various factors. It can give opportunities for application of weapon acquisition, operations analytics and plan, and objective level development on each training factor for the weapon operators according to the selection of Measures of Effectiveness (MOEs) and Measures of Performance (MOPs), or impact factors, based on the analytics goal.
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Date Issued
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2018
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Identifier
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CFE0007025, ucf:52870
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007025
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Title
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When Oppressed Women Attack: Female-Enacted Violence Through Minority American Female Playwrights' Works.
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Creator
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Busselle, Kate, Boyd, Belinda, Shafer, John, StClaire, Sybil, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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As an Actor Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors, theatrical violence is something that has always captivated me. When a female combat instructor once told me that even though I throw a great punch I will never be able to use it because women are always on the receiving end of violence in theatre, I wondered if this was truly the case. After a thorough exploration of several works with theatrical violence, I am glad to say that it is not the case. When most scholars examine...
Show moreAs an Actor Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors, theatrical violence is something that has always captivated me. When a female combat instructor once told me that even though I throw a great punch I will never be able to use it because women are always on the receiving end of violence in theatre, I wondered if this was truly the case. After a thorough exploration of several works with theatrical violence, I am glad to say that it is not the case. When most scholars examine violence in theatre, the focus is either male-centric or specifically on domestic violence situations involving a male abusing a female. I will examine theatrical violence through a new lens that has yet to be thoroughly critically explored: violence where the female is the aggressor. Through selected works of three American minority female playwrights: Suzan-Lori Parks' In the Blood, Maria Irene Fornes' Conduct of Life, and Young Jean Lee's Songs of the Dragons Flying to Heaven, I will analyze the female-enacted violence that occurs within these plays using feminist theories and psychology to examine how it happens, why it happens, who the victims are, and what these acts of violence say about minority American women in society today. I will explore the stage directions and dialogue surrounding the violence and analyzing the use or absence of weaponry, the breakdown or build-up of language prior to and after the violent action, and whether or not the violent action occurs before or after a violent action is committed against the female. For comparison, I will also analyze work by an American male playwright with violence in the same way: Tracy Letts' August: Osage County.
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Date Issued
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2015
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Identifier
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CFE0006028, ucf:51018
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006028
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Title
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Exploring 3D User Interface Technologies for Improving the Gaming Experience.
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Creator
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Kulshreshth, Arun, Laviola II, Joseph, Hughes, Charles, Da Vitoria Lobo, Niels, Masuch, Maic, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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3D user interface technologies have the potential to make games more immersive (&) engaging and thus potentially provide a better user experience to gamers. Although 3D user interface technologies are available for games, it is still unclear how their usage affects game play and if there are any user performance benefits. A systematic study of these technologies in game environments is required to understand how game play is affected and how we can optimize the usage in order to achieve...
Show more3D user interface technologies have the potential to make games more immersive (&) engaging and thus potentially provide a better user experience to gamers. Although 3D user interface technologies are available for games, it is still unclear how their usage affects game play and if there are any user performance benefits. A systematic study of these technologies in game environments is required to understand how game play is affected and how we can optimize the usage in order to achieve better game play experience.This dissertation seeks to improve the gaming experience by exploring several 3DUI technologies. In this work, we focused on stereoscopic 3D viewing (to improve viewing experience) coupled with motion based control, head tracking (to make games more engaging), and faster gesture based menu selection (to reduce cognitive burden associated with menu interaction while playing). We first studied each of these technologies in isolation to understand their benefits for games. We present the results of our experiments to evaluate benefits of stereoscopic 3D (when coupled with motion based control) and head tracking in games. We discuss the reasons behind these findings and provide recommendations for game designers who want to make use of these technologies to enhance gaming experiences. We also present the results of our experiments with finger-based menu selection techniques with an aim to find out the fastest technique. Based on these findings, we custom designed an air-combat game prototype which simultaneously uses stereoscopic 3D, head tracking, and finger-count shortcuts to prove that these technologies could be useful for games if the game is designed with these technologies in mind. Additionally, to enhance depth discrimination and minimize visual discomfort, the game dynamically optimizes stereoscopic 3D parameters (convergence and separation) based on the user's look direction. We conducted a within subjects experiment where we examined performance data and self-reported data on users perception of the game. Our results indicate that participants performed significantly better when all the 3DUI technologies (stereoscopic 3D, head-tracking and finger-count gestures) were available simultaneously with head tracking as a dominant factor. We explore the individual contribution of each of these technologies to the overall gaming experience and discuss the reasons behind our findings.Our experiments indicate that 3D user interface technologies could make gaming experience better if used effectively. The games must be designed to make use of the 3D user interface technologies available in order to provide a better gaming experience to the user. We explored a few technologies as part of this work and obtained some design guidelines for future game designers. We hope that our work will serve as the framework for the future explorations of making games better using 3D user interface technologies.
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Date Issued
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2015
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Identifier
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CFE0005643, ucf:50190
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005643
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Title
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Treatment Matching in PTSD: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis Based On Therapeutic Mechanisms of Action.
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Creator
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Trachik, Benjamin, Bowers, Clint, Beidel, Deborah, Jentsch, Florian, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The current study takes an initial step toward deriving a method for empirically based, theory-driven treatment matching in a military population suffering from PTSD. Along with the more overt symptoms of PTSD (e.g., persistent hyperarousal), secondary cognitive symptoms have also been shown to be significantly associated with avoidance and intrusive symptoms, as well as contribute to functional impairment. Based on the factor analytic and treatment literature for PTSD, it appears that there...
Show moreThe current study takes an initial step toward deriving a method for empirically based, theory-driven treatment matching in a military population suffering from PTSD. Along with the more overt symptoms of PTSD (e.g., persistent hyperarousal), secondary cognitive symptoms have also been shown to be significantly associated with avoidance and intrusive symptoms, as well as contribute to functional impairment. Based on the factor analytic and treatment literature for PTSD, it appears that there are two central mechanisms associated with beneficial therapeutic change that underlies both CPT and PE treatments (i.e., habituation, changes in cognitions). Additionally, different traumatic events and peritraumatic responses may be associated with unique symptom profiles and may necessitate targeted treatment. The present study proposes a novel approach to treatment matching based on the factor structure of PTSD and underlying mechanisms of treatment response. More broadly, this paper provides evidence for a broader understanding of peritraumatic responses and the potential implications of these responses for symptom profiles and illness trajectories.
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Date Issued
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2014
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Identifier
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CFE0005727, ucf:50126
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005727