Digital Commons Network^™

Unfolding Remembrance: Folding Islamic Principles Into Pondering Machines, Hind Al Saad Al-Kuwari

Theses and Dissertations

Principles of early Islamic art can be surveyed as a precursor to Western computational art. Though produced in different historical and cultural contexts, Islamic art and computational art are connected by underlying structures—arithmetic, harmony, and the concept of the Infinite.

Islamic developments in knowledge, like algebra, contributed to mathematics and mechanics—the building blocks of contemporary technology. Returning to Islam’s traditional harmony between religion and science, my creative practice constructs machines as an act of worship (ʿibadah), folding Islamic principles into the medium of computation.

Selected verses from the Quran are used as the core of each automaton (self-operating machine). Their …

A Free-Boundary Successive Over-Relaxation Grad-Shafranov Equation Solver, Alec J. Damsell

Honors Theses and Capstones

Fusion has long been considered the “Holy Grail” of renewable energy, but has not yet seen viability as a commercial power source. With tokamaks like SPARC, NSTX-U, and ITER coming online over the next ten years, there is growing investment in fusion technology by both the public and private sector. If these tokamaks reach or exceed their scientific aims, further investment in fusion and new tokamak designs are expected. The first step in designing a tokamak is choosing a good plasma equilibrium, which is described by the Grad-Shafranov equation. This work presents a successive over-relaxation routine to solve the Grad-Shafranov …

Circularly-Shifted Chirps For Triple Functionality: Communications, Radar, And Computation, Safi Shams Muhtasimul Hoque

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation presents circularly-shifted chirps (CSCs), synthesized within orthogonal frequency domain multiplexing (OFDM) framework, as a novel solution for integrating radar, communication, and computation functionalities to a wireless network. Firstly, {index modulation (IM)} with circularly-shifted chirps (CSCs) (CSC-IM) for dual-function radar and communication (DFRC) system is discussed. The proposed scheme encodes the information bits with the CSC indices and the phase-shift keying (PSK) symbols. It allows the receiver to exploit the frequency selectivity naturally in fading channels by combining IM and wideband CSCs. It also leverages the fact that a CSC is a constant-envelope signal to achieve a controllable peak-to-mean …

Input / Output, Zach Scheinfeld

Masters Theses

Input/Output emphasizes the processes and systems that create engagement, narrative, and meaning in graphic design, as opposed to singular inputs and outputs. In a series of experimental frameworks, ranging in form from 3D printed objects to browser-based painting tools, variables are put into the hands of the audience and user, creating conditions that are prime for retooling, repurposing, world-building, and play. Throughout, an open dialogue and feedback loop is formed between interface and user, author and reader, and teacher and student, where power, agency, and structure are in constant circulation, resulting in the emergence of unexpected forms, speculative technologies, and …

Crossover Logics, Serena Ho

Masters Theses

As more and more of modern life is measured and calculated by computational machines, our realities are flattened into streams of data, bits, and binary. As a graphic designer operating under societal and technological systems that unrelentingly speed up, simplify, and reduce the individual into a digital form legible to machines, my response to these conditions is to search for moments of imagination, poetry, and play within these structures. In my practice, I pair machined forms with human gestures to bridge the duality between computer and human logics, the rational and the emotional, and the measurable and unmeasurable aspects of …

Neural Tabula Rasa: Foundations For Realistic Memories And Learning, Patrick R. Perrine

Master's Theses

Understanding how neural systems perform memorization and inductive learning tasks are of key interest in the field of computational neuroscience. Similarly, inductive learning tasks are the focus within the field of machine learning, which has seen rapid growth and innovation utilizing feedforward neural networks. However, there have also been concerns regarding the precipitous nature of such efforts, specifically in the area of deep learning. As a result, we revisit the foundation of the artificial neural network to better incorporate current knowledge of the brain from computational neuroscience. More specifically, a random graph was chosen to model a neural system. This …

Computation As A Planetary Scale Phenomenon, Payoshini Pandey

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

The concept of the ‘technosphere’ was advanced in the field of Earth Systems Science to capture technology as a geological phenomenon in the Anthropocene. What precisely, I ask, drives the technosphere to be so novel and unprecedented a planetary force? Part of the answer, I venture, lies in the nature of computation as a generative force that drives the expansion of the technosphere. To build an account of computation as a generative force of a planetary scale, I engage with and parse through various debates regarding its historical and ontological predispositions. To address computation in its full potential, I argue, …

Theoretical Foundations Of Quantum Computing And The Implementation Of The Quantum Fourier Transform, Natalia Dziubelski

Senior Projects Spring 2023

Quantum computing is a growing field with the potential to revolutionize computation. This thesis explores the foundations of quantum computing with specific focus on the efficacy of the Quantum Fourier Transform (QFT). The fundamentals of quantum computing were described through an explanation of quantum mechanics and the mathematics needed to understand the quantum computing model and its operations. Using IBM’s simulators and quantum processors, the QFT was implemented on a classical data set, and the results were compared to the predicted output values. It was found that the QFT simulator was able to produce results consistent with Discrete Fourier Transform, …

A Defense Of Algorithmic Homuncularism, Spencer Kinsey

Philosophy Theses

In this thesis, I defend the explanatory force of algorithmic information processing models in cognitive neuroscience. I describe the algorithmic approach to cognitive explanation, its relation to Shea’s theory of cognitive representation, and challenges stemming from neuronal population analysis and dimensionality reduction. I then consider competing interpretations of some neuroscientific data that have been central to the debate. I argue in favor of a sequenced computational explanation of the phenomenon, contra Burnston. Finally, I argue that insights from theoretical neuroscience allow us to understand why dimensionality reduction does not militate against localizing distinct contents to distinct components of functioning brain …

Computational Approaches To Understanding Subduction Zone Geodynamics, Surface Heat Flow, And The Metamorphic Rock Record, Buchanan C. Kerswell

Boise State University Theses and Dissertations

Pressure-temperature (PT) estimates from exhumed high-pressure (HP) metamorphic rocks and global surface heat flow observations evidently encode information about subduction zone thermal structure and the nature of mechanical and chemical processing of subducted materials along the interface between converging plates. Previous work demonstrates the possibility of decoding such geodynamic information by comparing numerical geodynamic models with empirical observations of surface heat flow and the metamorphic rock record. However, ambiguous interpretations can arise from this line of inquiry with respect to thermal gradients, plate coupling, and detachment and recovery of subducted materials. This dissertation applies a variety of computational techniques to …

A Conservative Numerical Scheme For The Multilayer Shallow Water Equations, Evan Butterworth

All Theses

An energy-conserving numerical scheme is developed for the multilayer shallow water equations (SWE’s). The scheme is derived through the Hamiltonian formulation of the inviscid shallow water flows related to the vorticity-divergence variables. Through the employment of the skew-symmetric Poisson bracket, the continuous system for the multilayer SWE’s is shown to preserve an infinite number of quantities, most notably the energy and enstrophy. An energy-preserving numerical scheme is then developed through the careful discretization of the Hamiltonian and the Poisson bracket, ensuring the skew-symmetry of the latter. This serves as the groundwork for developing additional schemes that preserve other conservation properties …

Parental Perceptions Of Elementary Aged Children Learning To Code, David Daniel

Theses and Dissertations

Little research has been conducted to understand the role that parents play in children learning to code even though coding has become a necessary skill for students to successfully study STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) subjects. After identifying five factors that would influence parental perceptions, we developed a survey and administered it to parents of elementary aged children. We validated the survey using a confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. To be considered valid, factors needed to meet three of the following four fit statistics: RSMEA < 0.08, SRMR < 0.08, CFI > 0.9, TLI > 0.9. Items needed to have a factor loading > 0.3 with a …

Spatiotemporal Pattern Detection With Neuromorphic Circuits, Robert C. Ivans

Boise State University Theses and Dissertations

In this dissertation, neuromorphic circuits are used to implement spiking neural networks in order to detect spatiotemporal patterns. Unsupervised training and detection-by-design techniques were used to attain the appropriate connectomes and perform pattern detection.

Unsupervised training was performed by feeding random digital spikes with a repeating embedded spatiotemporal pattern to a spiking neural network composed of leaky integrate-and-fire neurons and memristor-R(t) element circuits which implement spike-timing-dependent plasticity learning rules.

Detection-by-design was achieved using neuromporphic circuits and digital logic gates. When detection-by-design was achieved using both neuromorphic circuits and digital logic gates, a network was created of spatiotemporal pattern detector circuits, …

Parametric Study Of Orthogonal Pantographic Lattice With Non-Linear Torsional Resistance At Pivots, Mahendra Singh Bisht

All Theses

Pantographic lattices are cellular solids comprised of continuous beam fibers intersecting at periodically spaced pivots. The pivots are simulated in the discrete finite element beam model as torsional springs with varied torsional stiffness across orders of magnitude. An important functional performance feature of pantographic lattices is their ability to undergo large deformation without inducing large stresses at the pivots. There is a need for predictive models of this nonlinear behavior. In this study, parameter studies on the order of magnitude and nonlinear material behavior of the torsional stiffness at the pivots, combined with and without nonlinear geometric beam kinematic behavior …

Ctrl Shift, Kit Son Lee

Masters Theses

CTRL SHIFT makes a case for design under contemporary computation. The abstractions of reading, writing, metaphors, mythology, code, cryptography, interfaces, and other such symbolic languages are leveraged as tools for understanding. Alternative modes of knowledge become access points through which users can subvert the control structures of software. By challenging the singular expertise of programmers, the work presented within advocates for the examination of internalized beliefs, the redistribution of networked power, and the collective sabotage of computational authority.

Experimental And Numerical Investigation Of Shock Wave Propagation In An Advanced Blast Simulator, Edward Chern Jinn Gan

University of Wollongong Thesis Collection 2017+

The current state of blast resistant design methods is largely reliant on empirical observations of field explosive testing or numerical simulations. While both methods are undoubtedly vital and necessary, they both have inherent limitations. Field trials for performing systematic experimental studies are exceedingly expensive, produce inconsistent results, and are slow in the rate of testing. Conventional blast simulators (shock tubes) enable blast testing to be performed in a safe and controlled laboratory environment but usually do not correctly replicate free-field blast conditions which could lead to deceptive outcomes in regard to target loading and response. The National Facility of Physical …

Usability Of Structured Lattices For A Post-Quantum Cryptography: Practical Computations, And A Study Of Some Real Kummer Extensions, Andrea Lesavourey

University of Wollongong Thesis Collection 2017+

Lattice-based cryptography is an excellent candidate for post-quantum cryptography, i.e. cryptosystems which are resistant to attacks run on quantum computers. For efficiency reason, most of the constructions explored nowadays are based on structured lattices, such as module lattices or ideal lattices. The security of most constructions can be related to the hardness of retrieving a short element in such lattices, and one does not know yet to what extent these additional structures weaken the cryptosystems. A related problem – which is an extension of a classical problem in computational number theory – called the Short Principal Ideal Problem (or SPIP), …

Qwasi: The Quantum Walk Simulator, Warren V. Wilson

Theses and Dissertations

As quantum computing continues to evolve, the ability to design and analyze novel quantum algorithms becomes a necessary focus for research. In many instances, the virtues of quantum algorithms only become evident when compared to their classical counterparts, so a study of the former often begins with a consideration of the latter. This is very much the case with quantum walk algorithms, as the success of random walks and their many, varied applications have inspired much interest in quantum correlates. Unfortunately, finding purely algebraic solutions for quantum walks is an elusive endeavor. At best, and when solvable, they require simple …

In Silico Investigation For The Conversion Of Methyl Oleate To Gasoline, Arkanil Roy

MSU Graduate Theses

Petroleum products are found in all walks of life. From the plastic casing on a cell phone to the gasoline that runs most vehicles, a lot is derived from petroleum. Ubiquitous use of petroleum has adversely affected the environment. Toxic substances such as SOx and NOx are released into the atmosphere during the processing and usage of petroleum products, which contributes to global warming. Inevitable oil spills cause devastating effects to marine ecosystems. The rate of regeneration of petroleum is much slower than the rate of usage that would lead to it being exhausted in the recent future. Hence, a …

Investigating New Methods To Develop Perovskite Solar Cells, Amani Hussain Alfaifi

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Discovering the potential of organic-inorganic metal halide perovskites (MHP) as a harvesting material in solar cells has strongly affected the research direction in solar energy. The fascinating optical and electronic properties offered by MHP combined with tremendous effort from scientists around the world have improved the efficiency to about 25% in a decade.

In the first part of the dissertation, we studied the lamination process as a new fabrication method for producing self-encapsulated perovskite solar cells based on laminating half stacks,as opposed to the conventional layer-by-layer method. Our work focused on optimizing the lamination process of complex triple cations perovskite …

Computational Methods To Quantify Human Lens Shape And Optical Properties Using Laser Ray Tracing And Optical Coherence Tomography, Siobhan Adeana Williams

Open Access Dissertations

Vision is worsening on a global scale. Myopia, a visual condition where distant objects appear blurry, is increasing in prevalence at an alarming rate. This condition typically starts during childhood and progressively worsens, potentially leading to more severe visual conditions if left unchecked. Currently, the best treatment method to slow myopic progression is heavily debated as the etiology of myopia is not fully understood. The development of effective long-term solutions require a better understanding of how vision changes with age. The cornea and lens, the length of the human eye, and the surrounding ocular media dictate visual quality. Extensive studies …

A Hott Approach To Computational Effects, Phillip A. Wells

Senior Independent Study Theses

A computational effect is any mutation of real-world state that occurs as the result of a computation. We develop a model for describing computational effects within homotopy type theory, a branch of mathematics separate from other foundations such as set theory. Such a model allows us to describe programs as total functions over values while preserving information about the effects those programs induce.

Water Dynamics And The Effect Of Static And Alternating Electric Fields, Mohammadmahdi Shafiei Alavijeh

Theses and Dissertations

Having a net dipole moment, water molecules tend to align with an external electric field. The re-orientation of water molecules to align with the field direction can result in structural and dynamic changes in liquid water. Studying these changes can help us to understand the role of an E-field in many biological systems, chemical reactions, and many technological advancements.

In short, the application of static electric fields causes molecules to stay aligned with the field, so, fewer hydrogen bonds break, and molecules have slower dynamics. This type of field can be used when the mobility of water molecules needs to …

Generalized Adaptive Variable Bit Truncation Model For Approximate Stochastic Computing, Keerthana Pamidimukkala

Masters Theses

"Stochastic computing as a computing paradigm is currently undergoing revival as the advancements in technology make it applicable especially in the wake of the need for higher computing power for emerging applications. Recent research in stochastic computing exploits the benefits of approximate computing, called Approximate Stochastic Computing (ASC), which further reduces the operational overhead in implementing stochastic circuits. A mathematical model is proposed to analyze the efficiency and error involved in ASC. Using this mathematical model, a new generalized adaptive method improving on ASC is proposed in the current thesis. The proposed method has been discussed with two possible implementation …

Theory, Computation, And Modeling Of Cancerous Systems, Sameed Ahmed

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation focuses on three projects. In Chapter 1, we derive and implement the compact implicit integration factor method for numerically solving partial differential equations. In Chapters 2 and 3, we generalize and analyze a mathematical model for the nonlinear growth kinetics of breast cancer stem cells. And in Chapter 4, we develop a novel mathematical model for the HER2 signaling pathway to understand and predict breast cancer treatment. Due to the high order spatial derivatives and stiff reactions, severe temporal stability constraints on the time step are generally required when developing numerical methods for solving high order partial differential …

The Murine Accessory Olfactory Bulb As A Model Chemosensory System: Experimental And Computational Analysis Of Chemosensory Representations, Gary Francis Hammen

Arts & Sciences Electronic Theses and Dissertations

A common challenge across sensory processing modalities is forming meaningful associations between the neural responses and the outside world. These neural representations of the world must then be integrated across different sensory systems contributing to each individuals perceptual experience. While there has been considerable study of sensory representations in the visual system of humans and multiple model organisms, other sensory domains, including olfaction, are less well understood. In this thesis, I set out to better understand the sensory representations of the mouse accessory olfactory system (AOS), a part of the olfactory system. The mouse AOS, our model chemosensory system, comprises …

Computer Science Education At The Claremont Colleges: The Building Of An Intuition, Lauren Burke

Scripps Senior Theses

In this thesis, I discuss how the undergraduate computer scientist is trained, and how they learn what I am calling computational intuition. Computational intuition describes the methodology in which computer scientists approach their problems and solve them through the use of computers. Computational intuition is a series of skills and a way of thinking or approaching problems that students learn throughout their education. The main way that computational intuition is taught to students is through the experience they gain as they work on homework and classwork problems. To develop computational intuition, students learn explicit knowledge and techniques as well as …

How Can We Build A Moral Robot?, Kristen E. Clark

Capstones

Artificial intelligence is already starting to drive our cars and make choices that affect the world economy. One day soon, we’ll have robots that can take care of our sick and elderly, and even rescue us in rescue us in emergencies. But as robots start to make decisions that matter—it’s raising questions that go far beyond engineering. We’re stating to think about ethics.

Bertram Malle and Matthias Scheutz are part of a team funded by the department of defense. It's their job to answer a question that seems straight out of a sci-fi novel: How can we build a moral …

Geometry And Thermodynamics Of Filament Bundles, Isaac Bruss

Doctoral Dissertations

In this dissertation I present a study of the geometry and energetics of bundles composed of flexible cohesive filaments. This is a general class of materials, both biological and artificial, existing across many length scales. The aim of this thesis is to investigate the interdependence between the 2D organization of filaments in a bundle’s cross section, and the 3D structure, with an emphasis on the twisting mode of deformation. First we present a model of filament contacts and interactions, which we employ in numerical simulations to study the connection between the ground state energies of constant-pitch bundles and their interior …

Using Hadoop To Support Big Data Analysis: Design And Performance Characteristics, Afreen Sultana

Culminating Projects in Information Assurance

Today, the amount of data generated is extremely large and is growing faster than computational speeds can keep up with. Therefore, using the traditional ways or we can say using a single machine to store or process data can no longer be beneficial and can take a huge amount of time. As a result, we need a different and better way to process data such as having data distributed over large computing clusters.

Hadoop is a framework that allows the distributed processing of large data sets. Hadoop is an open source application available under the Apache License. It is designed …