Digital Commons Network^™

Continual Learning For An Ever Evolving And Intelligent Malware Classification System, Mohammad Saidur Rahman

Theses

Malware classification poses unique challenges for continual learning (CL) systems, driven by the daily influx of new samples and the evolving nature of malware threats that exploit new vulnerabilities. Antivirus vendors encounter hundreds of thousands of unique software pieces daily, encompassing both malicious and benign files. Over its operational life, a malware classifier can accumulate more than a billion samples. Training malware classification system with only new samples and classes leads to catastrophic forgetting (CF), where the system forgets previously learned data distribution. While retraining with all old and new samples effectively combats CF, it is computationally expensive and necessitates …

A Study Of The Impact Education Level Has On Unemployment Rates For Youths In Emerging Market Countries, Alia Aldhaheri

Theses

Economic stress endured by countries globally can be due to numerous socioeconomic factors, including unemployment, measured by the unemployment rate expressed in percentage (%). Various micro and macro socioeconomic variables, including the quality of education and vocational training in the countries and the availability of it, cause high unemployment rates. This study assesses the impact education has on unemployment rates and focuses on youths in emerging market countries to determine the nature of the relationship between the two variables. In addition, the study aims to predict which continents will have increasing unemployment rates for youths in the next five years …

Leveraging Machine Learning For Enhanced Lead Quality Prediction: A Case Study Of Vam Consulting, Huthayfa Nawafleh

Theses

In today's data-driven business landscape, companies are increasingly leveraging data analytics and machine learning to optimize their lead management processes and enhance customer acquisition strategies. This research focuses on the application of data analytics and the CRISP-DM methodology to improve lead quality prediction and streamline the sales funnel for VAM Consulting, a company specializing in marketing and business technology solutions. VAM Consulting has been developing customer acquisition processes and digital marketing strategies since 2016, amassing a diverse portfolio of over 300 client projects. Despite their extensive experience and utilization of various technologies, the company faces challenges in optimizing lead generation …

Predicting Student Attrition In Higher Education Institutions In The Uae Using Machine Learning, Dezzil M. Castelino

Theses

UAE has made significant progress in the field of education, including Higher Education, by attracting students from all around the world to various colleges and universities. Student dropout or attrition is a major issue that is faced by Higher Education Institutions (HEI). Hence, we need effective techniques to identify student data that affects attrition. This research aims to explore the use of machine learning algorithms to predict student attrition at Rochester Institute of Technology- Dubai (RIT Dubai). In this research, the CRISP-DM (Cross-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining) methodology was used as it is widely used in projects based on …

An Analysis Of Machine Learning Hardware From Tenstorrent, Matthew Stephen Doerner

Theses

Machine learning is growing at an exponential rate in industry today, with contemporary machine learning models having parameter counts in the high hundred millions to trillions paired with a huge computing requirement. As the field continues to grow and the models get larger and more computationally expensive, there is a greater need for specialized hardware that can accelerate the inference and training computations that are required of these machine learning models. The design of a custom hardware device specifically made to accelerate machine learning models is very intricate, with software and hardware development that needs to work together at the …

Pipecolic Acid And Novel Insights Into Cerebral Malaria, Akua E. Mensah

Theses

Cerebral malaria (CM), a severe manifestation of Plasmodium infection, prompts our investigation into the nuanced role of pipecolic acid in its pathophysiology. To unravel the molecular intricacies, we conducted in vitro lysine labeling techniques of mice infected with P. berghei ANKA parasites, and human P. falciparum grown in vitro, aiming to discern the impact of Plasmodium on pipecolic acid production. Previous observations indicated an elevation in pipecolic acid levels correlating with neurological decline in children with CM. In our study, confirming elevated pipecolic acid presence in the plasma and brain tissues of CM patients and the animal model of CM, …

Mechelle’S Bridal Palace Business Plan, Lakendra Montgomery

Theses

This project aims to develop a comprehensive business plan for a one-of-a-kind bridal store called Mechelle's Bridal Palace, which offers an innovative and unique bridal shopping experience. The plan goes beyond the traditional bridal store concept and includes a café, which will provide customers with additional relaxation and convenience. This business plan focuses on redefining the traditional bridal shopping experience and making it more enjoyable for customers. Moreover, this project aims to address the issue of diversity, representation, and inclusion in bridal fashion. The bridal industry has historically been exclusive, and it aims to address this by creating a more …

The Impact Of Ai On Ux: Challenges And Opportunities, Susan Stephanie Wells

Theses

Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in user experience (UX) design is reshaping the field of UX, offering new opportunities and challenges for designers. This thesis project explores the multifaceted relationship between AI and UX design, focusing on the challenges, opportunities, and skills demanded of UX designers in the age of AI. Through a review of academic research and real-world experiences, this project studies the impact of AI on web design processes, UX testing, and data analysis. Key findings highlight the transformative potential of AI in enhancing user experiences, from suggesting website structures to facilitating UX testing and data analysis.

Comparative analysis …

The Space That Tell Stories, Asia Gonzalez

Theses

This project focuses on visual storytelling in game design. The primary focus of this project is to create an environment that tells a story through visual exposition and very minimal dialogue or written words. Furthermore, the project studies the ways in which a story can be both a visual and interactive experience.

White Cell Support Application For Expo Ops Tactical Wargame System, Zackery Joseph Milder

Theses

The purpose of this project was to create a support application for a tabletop wargame currently used for training and scenario simulation by the United States Marine Corps. The EXPO OPS Companion is meant to enhance the capabilities of the White Cell/table director, the unbiased third party responsible for running adjudication for the EXPO OPS Tactical Wargames System. EXPO OPS TWS is “…a table top wargame covering contemporary and future conflict at the platoon, company and battalion level. It is a wargame toolkit that enables wargaming scenarios in the 2020 to 2030 timeframe. The design centers on plans and decisions …

The Use Of A Token Economy To Decrease Problem Behaviors And Increase Task Completion For A Pre-Schooler With Autism, Dyana Schneider, Robbie Hanson

Theses

The execution of a token economy has been shown to be effective to decrease problem behaviors and increase task completion, communication, and other skills for individuals with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (Matson & Boisjoli, 2009). Although previous research has shown token economies to be effective, there remains criticisms regarding existing research, such as low experimental rigor, among others (Maggin et al., 2011). Additionally, although token economies embed evidence-based behavior-analytic strategies (Wong et al., 2015) there appears to be a disconnect between basic and applied research and implementation of token economies in a clinical context (e.g., relying on fixed …

The Effects Of Social Media In The Fashion Industry, Kirsten Leigh Whitaker

Theses

This project focuses on how social media is impacting the fashion industry. The primary focus is on the inner workings of social media within the fashion industry, and how it has changed the industry. The project aims to study problems found within fashion marketing, which are causing negative effects in the industry. The negative effects can be defined as environmental and unethical working environments, which are common topics of discussion within the fashion industry as a whole, but never discussed in tandem with the influence of marketing and social media. Furthermore, the project studies how these can be solved by …

Evolutionary Neural Network For Optimized Clock Tree Synthesis, Patrick Jeffery

Theses

Clock Tree Synthesis (CTS) is a complex and in depth process that, in modern designs, would take an individual months if not years to get a working design. Tools such as Cadence Innovus and Synopsys ICC provide excellent support for CTS and can be used to create well optimized trees; allowing the user to edit the tree’s generation down to a single buffer. However, even these tools can fall short of a perfectly optimized route and oftentimes need a capable user to direct them in the right direction just to get a functioning clock tree. The aim of this work …

Investigation On The Synthesis And Characterization Of Novel Phase Change Materials For Packaging Application, Sriram Srinivasan

Theses

Phase change material (PCM) is one of the majorly growing techniques used for thermal heat storage in various fields including construction for insulation and packaging industry. PCMs are widely used to increase the shelf life of the produce and prevent from harsh climatic conditions during transportation. In this present investigation, a PCM system was developed in the form of microcapsules using lauric acid (LA) and capric acid (CA) emulsions in melamine formaldehyde (MF) solution and polyurethane foam (PUF) using polytetrahydrofuran, isoprene diisocyanate, and polyethylene glycol (PEG). Acetic acid and triethylamine were used to control the pH during microcapsule preparation. The …

Comparative Analysis Of International Gold Prices: The Case Of The Uae And Five Major Economies, Hend Ahmad Bintouq Almarri

Theses

This study identifies the complex interrelationships of gold prices with the UAE when assessed against large world economies like United States of America, India, China, and different European countries. Given gold’s critical role in the global economy, the study seeks to analyze the determinants of gold prices, including macroeconomic factors, geopolitical concerns, and market sentiment. The research uses comparative analysis to reveal the interaction of regional and global economic trends and how they influence gold prices. The methodology covers the detail analysis of historical gold price data in addition to other relevant economic indicators like crude oil prices, stock market …

Predictive Analytics: Assessing Air Pollution’S Influence On Real Estate Prices In Dubai, Hani Khalaf

Theses

This study examines the link between air pollution and property prices in Dubai. It aims to find the relationship between environmental and economic factors in Dubai’s rapidly expanding real estate market and concerns about city livability. The research is centered on investigating how differences in air quality between various neighborhoods in Dubai affect property pricing. To achieve this goal, the thesis adopted the Hedonic Pricing Method (HPM) typical for this type of analysis. The Hedonic Pricing Method (HPM) provides insights on the price of a product from its components. The study utilized records of housing transactions and air quality measurements …

A Comprehensive Study Of Gain Characterization In Mosfets, Elaine Greenfield

Theses

The functionality of MOSFETs makes them a crucial component in modern electrical engineering. These devices play a fundamental role in a wide range of applications. Understanding the behavior and characteristics of MOSFETs is essential for their effective utilization in circuit design. One crucial parameter that significantly impacts MOSFET performance is voltage gain. It represents the ratio of output voltage to input voltage and varies depending on the circuit configuration employed. When selecting a MOSFET for a specific circuit, understanding the parameters and characteristics that influence voltage gain becomes crucial. This research project aims to delve into the realm of MOSFETs, …

New Trigger Board Design For An Inductive Adder Topology Circuit, Htet A. Kyaw

Theses

After working at Laboratory for Laser Energetics for about 10 months, I was assigned in doing the research for replacing the obsolete parts on the trigger board of the high voltage and high current system. After studying the system, it was noticed that the circuit topology used was part of the pulse power system. Hence, the pulse power system was studied further to understand how it was used and its advantages. The inductive adder topology was studied thoroughly so that the trigger board design would meet the requirements. The components such as MOSFETs and Gate Drivers were studied and compared …

Defect Detection Of Photovoltaic Panels By Image Processing, Hamad Almarzooqi

Theses

A key component of the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable power sources, driven by the global demand for such energy, has been the fast improvement in the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) plants. Ensuring the dependability of photovoltaic panels becomes crucially important when solar installations develop in scale. Photovoltaic panels have flaws that reduce their effectiveness and shorten their lifespan, but they are durable and long-lasting otherwise. Solar plants need to work as efficiently as possible with low downtime and to want solar energy to be viable in the long run, the issues shall be fined a fixed promptly. …

Prosperity And Quality Of Life: A Comprehensive Analysis Of Economically Liberated Nations, Alia Omar Bin Touq Almarri

Theses

This project aims to employ data exploration, data analysis, visualization tools, and modelling to conduct a comprehensive research study concerning the desirability and impact of residing in economically liberalized nations, strongly focusing on their influence on human development. By leveraging advanced exploratory data analysis techniques such as principal component analysis (PCA) and modelling techniques such as multiple linear regression and random forest, this study aims to offer a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of how economic freedom correlates with and impacts various facets of human development, offering valuable policy suggestions for nations pursuing economic freedom as a development strategy. To ensure …

Revitalizing The Rochester Gorge Strategic Urban Site Planning To Enhance Water Quality In The Lower Genesee River, Stephen Adam Stoker

Theses

The project began with investigating a regional asset of interest: the Genesee River. Initial research into this area revealed that the river suffers from poor water quality. The causes and effects of poor water quality were explored, and it was determined that excess nutrients – namely phosphorus – play a critical role in the water quality of the Genesee River and present downstream risk at the river’s point of outflow in Lake Ontario. An examination of peer-reviewed literature, contemporary examples in the built environment where similar water quality issues were addressed, and existing watershed design frameworks were conducted to understand …

Sonic Space: A Music Visualization And Interaction System Using Particles, Yi Sun

Theses

Along with the rapid development of digital music formats and portable technical products, individuals can rely on technology to have access to new music besides traditional methods like recommendations from the social circle. While music apps provide users with a more convenient and efficient way to enjoy music through a music recommendation system, users are also limited by the music recommendation algorithm based on genres, artists, instruments, acoustic features, context, or moods. People who wear headphones often isolate themselves from the external world and others, passively absorbing content recommended by the system. Music, as an art form, serves more than …

Dilink X Human Machine Interface Design, Tiancheng Si

Theses

In the context of autonomous and electric vehicle advancements, this thesis presents an in-depth exploration into the design and implementation of Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) that transform the traditional vehicle interior into a multifunctional habitat. This pursuit is not merely aesthetic but an ergonomic imperative that demands innovative spatial utilization and interaction within the vehicle. It strives to reconcile human needs with the technical sophistication of autonomous vehicles, seeking to enhance the in-car experience to align with evolving user behaviors and expectations. The thesis proposes a series of design interventions aimed at optimizing the ergonomic layout and aesthetic appeal of vehicle …

Say Hello To Yesterday, Tianyi Zhang

Theses

This project investigates the therapeutic potential of picture books in addressing grief, focusing on a narrative about a woman navigating the aftermath of her husband's death. It integrates traditional artistic techniques with modern digital tools to explore loss's emotional and psychological impacts. The use of dark tones accented with bright colors such as pink, orange, and green symbolizes the transition from sorrow to hope and healing. Key symbols like labyrinths and cameras deepen thematic resonance, with labyrinths depicting the protagonist's confusion and cameras representing fixed memories of the past. This approach highlights the dualities of memory and progress, illustrating the …

Busy World: 3d To-Do Lists App, Zhixiao Shen

Theses

Today, people encounter many arduous tasks every day. Heavy work tasks and tedious tasks always remind people, tormenting people who work hard to live. Life is busy, and there are many things to do every day. Without to-do lists to help us organize the tasks we need to get done each day, our lives would be a mess. Not only that, but unplanned tasks can also trigger procrastination. According to a survey, more than 40% of people suffer from procrastination. Procrastination affects the lives of many people, causing them to be inefficient and waste a lot of time. The central …

M’Ma, Charlotte Rose Eshelman

Theses

As I wrestle with myself, I wrestle with my mother. Both my mother and I survived domestic abuse as children, my mother again as an adult. Our bodies carry our trauma, her body carried mine, and someday, my body will carry my children. M’ma contemplates what we do with what we’re given, how trauma is inherited and passed down to the next generation through the body, and the complex intimacy of the mother-child relationship. I express and project my questions about my future children, my relationship with and understanding of my mother, and of myself in anticipation of being a …

Quantum Lissajous Figures Via Projection, Errico Russo

Theses

We present and investigate a new category of quantum Lissajous states for a two-dimensional Harmonic Oscillator (2DHO) having commensurate angular frequencies. The states themselves result from the projection of ordinary coherent states (i.e. quasi-classical) onto a degenerate subspace of the 2DHO. In this way, new, highly non-classical quantum mechanically stationary states arise “organically” from the highly classical but non-stationary coherent states. The connection to Lissajous figures is evident in the result that our states so defined all have probability densities that are localized along the corresponding classical Lissajous figures. We further emphasize the important interplay between the probability current density …

Atoms And Leaves, Patty Tomanovich

Theses

Atoms and Leaves is a photographic project presented as windows into a utopia. The glass images display a potential time and place where the landscape, photography, and transness intertwine and grow from each other. Photography historically harms the landscape- requiring precious metals, releasing pollution into the atmosphere, and creating hazardous water waste. The traditional photographic canon erases the connection between queerness and ecology. Atoms and Leaves rethreads these connections, creating a world where photography collaborates with the landscape and takes on a transgender perspective by reshaping given material. The photographic printing process developed in this project was inspired by the …

Passing Away, Xin Li

Theses

My paper revolves these wonderful things from our lives, fading away from our world until even ourselves vanish from this world. I am often hijacked by groundless panic, even when I possess something, I dare not think about losing it, just the thought makes me anxious. I would even rather not have had beautiful things to avoid losing them. In my perception, all beautiful things are fragile, brittle. When I realized I was trapped by this fear, unable to move forward towards a new life, I decided to rescue myself. In the society and culture that I grew up in, …

Among Cypress And Sawgrass, Chandler Michael Culotta

Theses

Among Cypress and Sawgrass is a photographic series that explores the region I have come to call home, the Florida Everglades. This series explores the vast diversity of species and the ecosystem as a whole, but also speaks to the threats it has faced and continues to face that could devastate it forever. The series brings attention to the importance of this ecosystem, vocalizing support for its preservation, something we often depict in a phrase regarding the entire state; “Keep Florida Wild”. The series brings together photographs of the natural world and photographs of the ways humankind has influenced and …