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Towards Machine Learning-Based Control Of Autonomous Vehicles In Solar Panel Cleaning Systems, Farima Hajiahmadi Jan 2024

Towards Machine Learning-Based Control Of Autonomous Vehicles In Solar Panel Cleaning Systems, Farima Hajiahmadi

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis presents a machine learning (ML)-based approach for the intelligent control of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) utilized in solar panel cleaning systems, aiming to mitigate challenges arising from uncertainties, disturbances, and dynamic environments. Solar panels, predominantly situated in dedicated lands for solar energy production (e.g., agricultural solar farms), are susceptible to dust and debris accumulation, leading to diminished energy absorption. Instead of labor-intensive manual cleaning, robotic cleaners offer a viable solution. AVs equipped to transport and precisely position these cleaning robots are indispensable for efficient navigation among solar panel arrays. However, environmental obstacles (e.g., rough terrain), variations in solar panel …


The Parasocial Experiences Of Twitch Streamers, Ashley Adamian Jan 2024

The Parasocial Experiences Of Twitch Streamers, Ashley Adamian

Theses and Dissertations

The literature surrounding parasocial relationships (PSRs) has been expansive but lacks the perspective of how parasocial relationships can impact the media figure in certain contexts, specifically in regard to Twitch livestreamers and their communities. Previous research has examined how PSRs fulfill certain roles in the individual’s life, as well as some aspects that affect the relationship, such as the strength and development of the relationship. Previous research has concluded that stronger PSRs can develop from livestreaming platforms such as Twitch. This study investigates the relationship between Twitch livestreamers and PSRs. Through semi-structured interviews with seven participants, this study finds the …


Investigating Ammonium Toxicity In The Performance Of Recirculating Periphytic Algal Wastewater Treatment Systems, Oluchuku Richie Ochonogor Jan 2024

Investigating Ammonium Toxicity In The Performance Of Recirculating Periphytic Algal Wastewater Treatment Systems, Oluchuku Richie Ochonogor

Theses and Dissertations

Freshwater nutrient enrichment from wastewater facilities and other sources can lead to freshwater eutrophication, a threat to global aquatic ecosystems. Mechanical and chemical ways to curb this threat are either too expensive or not sustainable, and thus, not feasible. Compared to mechanical and other methods, sustainable, inexpensive biological methods (for example, algal treatment systems) have therefore been developed for the removal of excess nutrients from wastewater. By design, secondary waste treatment facilities (WWTF) remove organics and solids and lower oxygen demanding substances; however, they may not remove enough nutrients to protect freshwater ecosystems in all cases. While algae-based biological methods …


Examining The Perspectives Of Rural Secondary Students Who Are And Are Not Considering Music Education As A Collegiate Major, Eugene Talmadge Butler Ii Jan 2024

Examining The Perspectives Of Rural Secondary Students Who Are And Are Not Considering Music Education As A Collegiate Major, Eugene Talmadge Butler Ii

Theses and Dissertations

A problem exists in recruiting new music educators to the teaching profession. This problem is impacting the quality of instruction students are receiving from teachers in music education. The shortage of music teachers in music education is continuing to grow. This teacher shortage includes both core classes and specialized classes including music education. Many possible factors contribute to this problem, including teacher recruitment at the secondary level. This mixed methods research study attempts to provide in-depth answers to the problem through examining the perspectives of secondary students who are and are not considering music education as a major in college. …


Teacher Perceptions Of Social-Emotional Learning Program Implementation In Rural Georgia Middle Schools, John Kraig Howell Jan 2024

Teacher Perceptions Of Social-Emotional Learning Program Implementation In Rural Georgia Middle Schools, John Kraig Howell

Theses and Dissertations

Social emotional learning (SEL) refers to a set of skills and competencies that allow students to effectively establish, develop and maintain interpersonal relationships with others, as well as to manage their intrapersonal feelings, emotions and responses to social situations. Students who receive SEL instruction have shown higher academic achievement levels and improved behavioral and social competence. Though an increasing demand is being placed on schools and teachers to address the social emotional needs of students, little guidance exists regarding implementation. Research indicates that teacher perceptions of SEL have a direct impact on the implementation of and outcomes associated with SEL. …


School-Based Educators’ Perceptions Of Professional Development And Its Impact On Their Ability To Improve Literacy Instruction For Underperforming K-2 Students, Monica Mcdaniel Jan 2024

School-Based Educators’ Perceptions Of Professional Development And Its Impact On Their Ability To Improve Literacy Instruction For Underperforming K-2 Students, Monica Mcdaniel

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative exploratory case study was to examine school-based educators’ perceptions of professional learning and its impact on their ability to improve literacy instruction. The perceived role of the principal in the implementation, monitoring, and sustaining professional learning was also explored. A total of eight teachers, two media specialists, two instructional coaches, and five school leaders at two elementary schools in the Southeast United States participated in the study. Findings include the importance of quality, ongoing professional development, the leader’s role in planning, participation in, and supporting teachers through the professional development process, and everyone’s role in …


"But Why Facebook?" Why And How Local Nonprofit Organizations Use Facebook Compared To Other Social Media, Tyisha S. Landers Jan 2024

"But Why Facebook?" Why And How Local Nonprofit Organizations Use Facebook Compared To Other Social Media, Tyisha S. Landers

Theses and Dissertations

Social media marketing has proven to be immensely beneficial in providing a mostly free, accessible way to inform people and carry out campaigns. For nonprofits, social media platforms provide a channel to reach large audiences quickly, efficiently, and engagingly. How social media is used by nonprofit organizations – especially medium to small-scale organizations – plays a huge factor in their social media success. This factor can affect followers’ attitudes, perceptions, knowledge, and behavior toward the brand, which consequently affects the engagement level. To better understand how nonprofits use social media, in this study, the researcher will interview social media managers …


An Exploratory Study Of The Effects Of Bis-Substituted Triazolium Bromide Salts On The Proliferation Of Wi-38 Lung Cells And H-1299 Lung Cancer Cells, Rakaiya Martin Jan 2024

An Exploratory Study Of The Effects Of Bis-Substituted Triazolium Bromide Salts On The Proliferation Of Wi-38 Lung Cells And H-1299 Lung Cancer Cells, Rakaiya Martin

Theses and Dissertations

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The battle against this disease continues to challenge physicians and scientists daily, due to its various forms, treatments, and responses. Depending on the grade and stage of the disease, treatments can be extensive, encompassing surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Though these therapeutics can prolong a patient’s life, they often have significant ramifications. For instance, radiation therapy has an extensive list of side effects, from organ damage to loss of fertility. These outcomes have driven scientists to explore the applicability of novel cancer treatments. Imidazolium and benzimidazolium salts have been shown …


Reducing Mortality Among African American Mothers Related To Postpartum Hemorrhage By Implementing Early Education And Risk Assessments, Don'ya Truesdale Jan 2024

Reducing Mortality Among African American Mothers Related To Postpartum Hemorrhage By Implementing Early Education And Risk Assessments, Don'ya Truesdale

Theses and Dissertations

African American women are at the highest risk for hemorrhaging during childbirth (Okunlola, 2022). A hemorrhage can occur among postpartum mothers for many reasons, with the main causes being uterine atony, tissue trauma, and clotting issues. However, risks for Black mothers differ. The comorbid and social factors within the Black community greatly influence the likelihood of Black mothers experiencing postpartum hemorrhage. Additionally, the lack of assessment and attention catered towards those risk factors lead to an increased mortality among African American (AA) mothers compared to Caucasian mothers and all other ethnicities. Nonetheless, as maternal risk assessments and education increase, mortality …


The Courage To Perform: Stand-Up Comedy And Personal Growth, Grayson Turner Jan 2024

The Courage To Perform: Stand-Up Comedy And Personal Growth, Grayson Turner

Theses and Dissertations

Stand-up comedy, traditionally perceived as a means of entertainment and laughter, holds the power to showcase personal struggle, resilience, and transformative potential. This project delves into how stand-up comedy can be a tool for individuals to confront and conquer their fears by creating a documentary following individuals rehearsing and performing stand-up comedy for the first time. The analysis is grounded in the perspective that comedy and mental health are intricately linked.


Blockchain For Computational Integrity And Privacy, Rahul Raj Jan 2024

Blockchain For Computational Integrity And Privacy, Rahul Raj

Theses and Dissertations

This study proposes a blockchain based system that utilizes fully homomorphic encryption to provide security of data in use as well as computational integrity. This is achieved by leveraging the attributes of blockchain which provides availability and data integrity combined with homomorphic encryption that provides confidentiality. The proposed system is designed to perform statistical operations, including mean, median and variance, on encrypted data, thus providing confidentiality of data while in use. The computations are performed on the smart contract, residing on the blockchain which provides computational integrity. The results indicate that it is possible to perform fully homomorphic computations on …


Teachers’ Conceptions Of Students’ Data Literacy In Life Science And Physical Science Classes, Bridget Nicole Smith Jan 2024

Teachers’ Conceptions Of Students’ Data Literacy In Life Science And Physical Science Classes, Bridget Nicole Smith

Theses and Dissertations

Data literacy in science is an evolving field of study as students need to be able to collect, analyze, interpret, and make inferences from different sources of data. Much research centers on teachers' use of data to improve instructional practices, but less focus on teachers' conceptions of student data literacy and strategies used to foster data literacy in life and physical science high school classes. Thus, there is a need to address this area as recent Georgia assessments reveal that over 50% of students are performing below proficiency level in science. Consequently, this research sought to understand teachers’ conceptions of …


Branding & Marketing Strategies For Silver Linings Personal Care Home Llc., Kalicia R. Thomas Jan 2024

Branding & Marketing Strategies For Silver Linings Personal Care Home Llc., Kalicia R. Thomas

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.


Factors That Influence The Use Of Culturally Relevant And Responsive Pedagogies For Elementary School Leaders, Stephanie Lindstrom Jan 2024

Factors That Influence The Use Of Culturally Relevant And Responsive Pedagogies For Elementary School Leaders, Stephanie Lindstrom

Theses and Dissertations

The presence of minority students in public schools has highlighted the need for teachers and school leaders to seek and implement exclusive instructional strategies that will foster cultural diversity. The climate, culture, and vision of a school are a direct reflection of the school’s leadership. The purpose of this study was to explore the cultural readiness of elementary school leaders, as measured by the cultural readiness leadership scale (CRLS), and their beliefs and perceptions of culturally relevant and responsive practices. The foundational philosophy used to support this research was the transformational leadership theory. The research methodology entailed a mixed-method approach …


From Victorian Doubt To American Deconstruction: Exploring Faith Crises Across Time And Geography, Bailey Anne Melton Jan 2024

From Victorian Doubt To American Deconstruction: Exploring Faith Crises Across Time And Geography, Bailey Anne Melton

Theses and Dissertations

This research consists of a comparative analysis of faith crises in two distinct historical periods: the Victorian era (1830s-1914) and modern America. Through examining the Victorian crisis of faith and the contemporary American deconstruction movement within Protestant Evangelicalism, this study explores the common themes, diverse responses, and enduring relevance of faith doubt within Christianity. The Victorian crisis emerged amidst scientific advancements, theological debates, and shifting societal norms, prompting intellectuals to grapple with doubts about traditional Christian beliefs. Prominent figures publicly challenged religious orthodoxy, while evolving scientific theories, particularly evolution, further fueled skepticism. In contrast, the American crisis of Evangelicalism is …


A Phytochemical Analysis Of Secondary Metabolites In Eupatorium Serotinum, Elise Snow Jan 2024

A Phytochemical Analysis Of Secondary Metabolites In Eupatorium Serotinum, Elise Snow

Theses and Dissertations

Phytochemistry, a subset of Natural Products Chemistry, studies chemically derived products from natural substances. Advances in this field have important applications in medicinal research due to the distinctive and unique properties of natural compounds. All metabolites are produced from the metabolic cycle, which is a pathway that provides energy for the organism. These metabolic compounds vary greatly and are classified based on their function within the organism. Primary metabolites are abundant and contribute to organism growth, development, and maintenance of energy. Secondary metabolites are found in lesser quantity and correlate to natural defense mechanisms. For example, salicylic acid is a …


Optimizing Z/R Relationship For Radar-Based Precipitation Estimates, Jalon Gary Jan 2024

Optimizing Z/R Relationship For Radar-Based Precipitation Estimates, Jalon Gary

Theses and Dissertations

Z/R relationship is a power law relationship between radar reflectivity (Z) and rainfall rate (R). The relationship is expressed as Z = aRb where a and b are correlated with drop size distribution (DSD) and vary across locations. Using a Z/R relationship to translate radar reflectivity to rainfall rate can allow for real-time precipitation monitoring with a high temporal and spatial resolution. A dataset of 12 cases in Georgia from December 2021 to November 2022 was examined using the Georgia Weather Network rain gauge system and the KFFC radar to optimize the best Z/R relationship for each case. Radar-based precipitation …


Towards Energy-Efficient Edge Computing For Tiny Ai Applications, Vamsi Krishna Bhagavathula Jan 2024

Towards Energy-Efficient Edge Computing For Tiny Ai Applications, Vamsi Krishna Bhagavathula

Theses and Dissertations

As artificial intelligence (AI) applications become more common on the edge of networks, like Raspberry Pi servers, it is crucial to optimize their energy use. This research project investigates how AI algorithms affect energy efficiency and resource usage on Raspberry Pi servers. Two models were created: one predicts resource usage, and the other predicts power consumption of AI algorithms on Raspberry Pi. Several factors are considered like CPU and memory use, algorithm speed, dataset size, and types of algorithms and datasets. Using regression-based methods, we model how these factors affect energy use. By converting categorical factors into numerical ones, we …


3ddp Engineering Design Intervention Impacts On Student Perceptions, Attitudes, And Interest Towards Engineering, James Robert Kane Jan 2024

3ddp Engineering Design Intervention Impacts On Student Perceptions, Attitudes, And Interest Towards Engineering, James Robert Kane

Theses and Dissertations

The study, “3DDP Engineering Design Intervention Impacts on Student Perceptions, Attitudes, and Interest Towards Engineering” explored the impact of a culturally responsive, semi-formal 3D printing (3DDP) intervention on middle school students' perceptions, attitudes, and interest in engineering. The intervention aimed to broaden access to engineering education by providing formative experiences outside traditional classroom settings within the regular school day. A multifaceted approach was employed, utilizing quantitative analysis of assessments and surveys, qualitative analysis of written responses, follow-up interviews, and student-produced artifacts. The intervention functioned as a student-driven engineering club, integrating culturally relevant themes and hands-on activities spanning diverse engineering domains. …


What Does It Mean To Be A Human In The Age Of Artificial Intelligence?, Campbell R. Eubanks Jan 2024

What Does It Mean To Be A Human In The Age Of Artificial Intelligence?, Campbell R. Eubanks

Theses and Dissertations

Campbell Eubanks’ artwork reflects ideas surrounding the ever-growing complexities of human nature in the context of our growing world. She uses ceramics to investigate human purpose in a digital world by employing artificial intelligence along with her own skills and craft. Her work aims to challenge viewers to contemplate the intricate relationship between humans and artificial intelligence. During her research, Eubanks has looked towards other artists who invite AI into their traditional practices. Sougwen Chung is one example of this. Chung has trained AI robots to learn her style and works alongside them in performances to create collaborative gestural drawings. …


Viewers' Attitudes Towards Analytical And Traditional Commentary Styles In Baseball Broadcasts: A Quasi-Experimental Study, Michael Menhart Jan 2024

Viewers' Attitudes Towards Analytical And Traditional Commentary Styles In Baseball Broadcasts: A Quasi-Experimental Study, Michael Menhart

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigates the attitudes of college and non-college athletes on analytical and traditional commentary styles during baseball broadcasts. The attitudes tested were satisfaction and likelihood to watch again (retention). The experiment had two data collection sessions for the athletes and non-athletes where they were exposed to either analytical or traditional commentary. The exposure came through the reading of a fictional scrip based on each style and then the participants were asked to answer questions to test their satisfaction and retention. Through a comprehensive analysis, including independent sample t-tests and two-way ANOVA, the findings revealed a significant main effect for …


An Investigation Into Splicing Variation And Expression Patterns Of Insulin-Like Peptide 4 (Ilp4) Within The Drosophila Genus, Zachary C. Griffith Jan 2024

An Investigation Into Splicing Variation And Expression Patterns Of Insulin-Like Peptide 4 (Ilp4) Within The Drosophila Genus, Zachary C. Griffith

Theses and Dissertations

The insulin-signaling pathway plays a crucial role in regulating metabolic homeostasis in both humans and insects. Dysregulation or mutation within this pathway can lead to various diseases, such as diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance. The insulin-like peptide 4 (ILP4) in Drosophila is an interesting subject for study due to its similarity to mammalian insulin and its role in regulating sugar metabolism. In this study, we investigate a novel splicing variation within the Drosophila takahashii Insulin-Like Peptide 4 (ILP4) gene. Our investigation identified a splicing variation found in four Drosophila species that introduces an additional codon in one isoform, resulting in …


Sacred Screens: Hinduism, Buddhism, Shintoism And Islam In Popular Culture, Arianna A. Poveda Jan 2024

Sacred Screens: Hinduism, Buddhism, Shintoism And Islam In Popular Culture, Arianna A. Poveda

Theses and Dissertations

Popular media content creators have routinely drawn from religious concepts when seeking inspiration for new material. Developers in the West have traditionally relied heavily on Christian themes to supply new ideas. Now, more artists have begun to look towards Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Shinto religions for inspiration when conceiving many of the storylines we find in mainstream entertainment today. This thesis will study key examples of film, video game, literary, and television media to show how these artists weave their religiously inspired themes into their respective platforms. In using the rich stories and traditions to develop more in-depth landscapes and …


"Maybe I Shouldn't Have Worn Such High Heels" Examining Self-Presentation Expectations For Corporate Women Using Communication Theory Of Identity, Taylor E. Mack Dec 2023

"Maybe I Shouldn't Have Worn Such High Heels" Examining Self-Presentation Expectations For Corporate Women Using Communication Theory Of Identity, Taylor E. Mack

Theses and Dissertations

The present study examines how corporate women use self-presentation in the workplace to communicate professionalism. The study utilizes Communication Theory of Identity (CTI) to consider the self-presentation experiences of corporate women. CTI identifies four identity layers: personal, relational, enacted, and communal, which interact and influence each other as individuals attempt to define themselves. Through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with corporate women, the present study found the following results: women often receive communication regarding self-presentation standards from peers rather than formal policies, self-presentation expectations have become more casual and diverse, women still encounter challenges resulting in the need to (re)negotiate their identity, …


An Analysis Of Paid Agent Contracts Utilized In The Recruitment Of International Students At University System Of Georgia Institutions, Jeremiah Lee Pitts Oct 2023

An Analysis Of Paid Agent Contracts Utilized In The Recruitment Of International Students At University System Of Georgia Institutions, Jeremiah Lee Pitts

Theses and Dissertations

Many colleges and universities view international student recruitment as the solution to their financial pressures, but they lack the ability to effectively reach international markets. While many students desire to study internationally, they lack the knowledge and resources to explore their options. Paid agents bridge the information and opportunity gaps between institutions and prospective international students. However, the use of paid agents is fraught with many dangers. Paid agent contracts govern the relationships between these entities in the absence of regulations. This study explored the paid agent contracts employed by colleges and universities within the University System of Georgia to …


Smart Homes And You: Iot Device Data Risks In An Ever-Changing World, Autumn Person Oct 2023

Smart Homes And You: Iot Device Data Risks In An Ever-Changing World, Autumn Person

Theses and Dissertations

Social media applications are increasingly seen as a national security threat and a cause for concern because they can be used to create user profiles on government personnel and on US citizens. These profiles could be used for big data and artificial intelligence purposes of interest to foreign governments. With the rise of big data and AI being used, foreign governments could use this data for a variety of purposes that can affect normal everyday citizens, not just high value personnel. IoT (Internet of Things) devices that the population uses everyday can also pose the same threat. These devices can …


Teachers’ Perceptions Of The Implementation Of Differentiated Instruction With Grade 3 Students In A School District In Central Georgia, Letasha Pope Oct 2023

Teachers’ Perceptions Of The Implementation Of Differentiated Instruction With Grade 3 Students In A School District In Central Georgia, Letasha Pope

Theses and Dissertations

It is a promotional requirement for grade 3 students to pass the Reading Georgia Milestones Assessment. Teachers are also expected to implement Differentiated Instruction (DI) with their students. The problem addressed in the study was to examine third grade teachers’ perceived effectiveness of Differentiated Instruction with students who must pass the Reading Georgia Milestones Assessment. The purpose of this bounded, case study was to describe teachers’ perceptions of implementing DI with grade 3 students in a school district located in central Georgia. The research paradigm that was used in this study was qualitative. This study included semi structured interviews of …


Docker Technology For Small Scenario-Based Excercises In Cybersecurity, Zeinab Ahmed Oct 2023

Docker Technology For Small Scenario-Based Excercises In Cybersecurity, Zeinab Ahmed

Theses and Dissertations

This study aims to better prepare students for cybersecurity roles by providing practical tools that bridge the gap between theory and real-world applications. We investigate the role of small scenario-based exercises for students’ understanding of cybersecurity concepts. In particular, we assess the use of Docker technology to deliver training that includes a simple small scenario on html code injection. The effectiveness of scenario-based learning has long been defined and by using SBL, we are going to create hands-on activity that involves the fundamental topics in cybersecurity using Docker technology, allowing students to see the exploitation of the vulnerabilities and defense …


The Effects Of Inservice Science Teachers’ Self-Efficacy On Science Achievement Using The 5e Model Of Instruction., O'Tessa Nicole Pelham Apr 2023

The Effects Of Inservice Science Teachers’ Self-Efficacy On Science Achievement Using The 5e Model Of Instruction., O'Tessa Nicole Pelham

Theses and Dissertations

Science achievement has been a major focus in our educational system. While several learning models effectively increase science achievement, the nation is still not progressing adequately. A gap in the literature shows the need to find the effects of teachers’ self-efficacy, specifically with in-service science teachers. A pretest-posttest, non-equivalent control group, quasi-experimental research design was used in Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 to find the effects of in-service science teachers’ self-efficacy on science achievement, using the 5E Instructional Model. The study included 38 in-service science teachers who rated items on the pretest/posttest STEBI-A. Teachers in the experimental group consisted of …


A Mixed Methods Study Of Faculty Perceptions And Self Assessments Of Constructivist Teaching Methods At A Regional University In The State Of Georgia, Santha Kumari Jetty Apr 2023

A Mixed Methods Study Of Faculty Perceptions And Self Assessments Of Constructivist Teaching Methods At A Regional University In The State Of Georgia, Santha Kumari Jetty

Theses and Dissertations

The study, "A Mixed Methods Study of Faculty Perceptions and Self-Assessments of Constructivist Teaching Methods at a Regional University in the State of Georgia” examined the self-assessments and perceptions of faculty at a regional university in the State of Georgia. The study followed a sequential mixed-methods study with three phases of the study, namely, a quantitative ‘descriptive’ phase, a qualitative ‘bounded case study’ phase, and a mixed-methods phase in a joint display table. The purpose of this sequential mixed methods study was to examine the understanding and implementation of constructivist teaching practices by faculty in their classrooms at a regional …