Digital Commons Network^™

On The Colorability Of The Sphere Complex, Bennett Haffner

Master's Theses

One of the most prominently studied groups in geometric group theory is the outer automorphism group of the free group Out(F). The sphere complex provides a topological model for Out(F). We demonstrate the chromatic number of the sphere complex is finite.

Observations Of Currents, Waves, And Turbulence Within A Giant Kelp Forest In Stillwater Cove, Carmel, California, Logan A. Grady

Master's Theses

Nutrient distribution and propagule dispersal within Giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) forests are significantly influenced by turbulence. In-situ measurements of turbulence within giant kelp forests are limited and driving mechanisms are primarily informed by controlled-flume experiments. This study investigates relationships between currents, surface gravity waves, and turbulence within a kelp forest through deployment of moored instrumentation and kelp surveys in Stillwater Cove, California during summer of 2022. Oceanographic conditions were primarily driven by coastal upwelling and a semi-diurnal internal tide, which was associated with cooling events and enhanced onshore velocity within the kelp forest during rising tides. Estimates of gradient Richardson …

Online Trolling, Harassment, Misinformation: The Psychological Predictors Of Dark Participation, Randy Kim

Master's Theses

This study aims to examine the reasons why certain individuals engage in “dark participation”, antisocial social participation online involving behavior such as trolling, hate speech, harassment, and spreading disinformation. Online toxicity has increasingly destabilized our ability to engage in socially important discourse online, and trolling has such a strong effect on our environment to the point where the 2016 presidential election was, in part, influenced by online trolls. We theorize that dark participation (DP) will be predicted by high levels of moral disengagement (MD), need for chaos (NFC), and meaninglessness in life (MLN) and self concept clarity (SCC). A series …

Flora And Fauna Lexical Indicators Of Prehistoric Movement Of Yuman Peoples, Adam Ingwerson

Master's Theses

Amyloid fibrils are locally ordered protein aggregates characterized by a filamentous morphology held together by a hydrogen bonding motif known as cross-β structure whereby hydrogen bonds form between backbone amide bond moieties across separate protein segments. The most notable medical significance of amyloid fibrils is their central role in the etiology of Alzheimer’s disease, type 2 diabetes, and other human diseases. Although amyloid fibrils have been studied extensively, the mechanism of their formation is still not fully understood. X-ray crystallography is a leading experimental technique for resolving amyloid fibril structures from crystallized proteins; however, inherent limitations leave open the possibility …

Remote Work And The Desire For Meaningful Work: The Unexpected Moderating Effects Of Age And Childrearing, Adriana Rae Meredith

Master's Theses

The COVID-19 pandemic sent the world into lock down. Since then, organizations have been wrestling with how to navigate the many opinions, as well as research-backed advantages and disadvantages of in-office work, hybrid work, and remote work. In addition to shaking up the ways in which work is done, the pandemic shutdowns caused some to re-evaluate why they do the work they do. The current study aimed to examine the relationship between remote work and an employee’s desire for meaningful work to increase understanding of how remote work can be used as a strategic element of job design rather than …

Deep-Learning Approaches To Predict Remaining Useful Life Of Hard Disks, Rohan Mohapatra

Master's Theses

On a daily basis, data centers process huge volumes of data using inexpensive hard disks. Data stored in these disks serve a range of critical functional needs from financial, and healthcare to aerospace. As such, premature disk failure and consequent loss of data can be catastrophic. To mitigate the risk of failures, cloud storage providers perform condition-based monitoring and replace hard disks before they fail. By estimating the remaining useful life (RUL) of hard disk drives, one can predict the time-to-failure of a particular device and replace it at the right time, ensuring maximum utilization whilst reducing operational costs. We …

Controllable Physics-Informed Latent Space For Acoustic Wave Manipulation, Tristan Shah

Master's Theses

Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) are foundational descriptive tools in scientific and engineering disciplines, enabling the exploration of phenomena from material design to climate dynamics and the propagation of pandemics and wildfires. Establishing control of PDEs, especially when the underlying phenomena are only partially observable, holds great potential for fostering technological innovations. This ambition faces considerable obstacles, as a robust sample-based solution remains elusive. Addressing this challenge, this thesis introduces a framework leveraging physics-informed machine learning (ML) to enable control of PDEs. Central to this framework is an agent, equipped with sensors to perceive its environment, that generates a low-dimensional physics-informed …

Extraction, Preparation, And Characterization Of Alginate Biopolymer Films From Natural Seaweed, David Ly

Master's Theses

This study evaluates the use of naturally harvested seaweed from the Monterey Bay to produce a biodegradable film for food packaging applications. Two different film-forming methods were evaluated: solution casting and compression molding. The solution casting method using an alginate biopolymer produced the most consistent results. The seaweed biopolymer was extracted from the seaweed biomass using a modified method, resulting in a yield of 11-25 %. The highest yield was observed when using the lowest biomass concentration of 10 wt. %. The extracted alginate was then cast into films at different levels of glycerol plasticization (15-35 wt.%). The addition of …

Self-Efficacy’S Mediating Role On The Relationship Between Personality And Depression In The Unemployed, Christina Tran

Master's Theses

Depression affects 1 in 5 unemployed individuals, holding rank as one of the most prevalent negative effects of unemployment in the United States. Personality is often considered a predictor of the development of depressive symptoms during unemployment however, there is little research to explain the relationship between personality and depression. The purpose of this study was to expand on the relationship between personality and depressive symptoms in the American unemployed population by testing self-efficacy’s mediating effect between personality and depressive symptoms in the American unemployed population. A sample of 121 participants, who were either currently or recently unemployed, completed an …

Overnight Rice Fermentation: An Analysis Of The Physicochemical Changes In White, Brown, And Enriched Rice Varieties, Kavin Sivakumar

Master's Theses

Fermentation refers to the activity of microorganisms breaking down substrates, resulting in changes to a food product. One fermented food practice from the Indian subcontinent is overnight fermented rice. The traditional preparation consists of covering cooled cooked rice in water and leaving it at room temperature to ferment overnight. The objective of this project was to investigate overnight rice fermentation through quantifying its physicochemical changes. The study utilized three types of rice: white, enriched white, and brown. Mixtures of cooked rice and water at a 1 gram: 2 milliliter ratio were fermented at 29 degrees Celsius and 60% humidity for …

A Simulation Framework To Understand The Error Generation And Propagation Of Quantum Algorithms, Anika Zaman

Master's Theses

In this work, we present a Python framework designed to demonstrate various error types within quantum circuits through the utilization of probabilistic data obtained from quantum computers. The framework serves as a valuable tool for monitoring and mitigating errors across all stages of quantum circuits involving multiple qubits and gates. Leveraging the Harrow-Hassidim-Lloyd (HHL) quantum circuit, we conduct an analysis of errors on an IBM quantum computer and subsequently optimize the circuit. The paper introduces an automated methodology for computing single bit-flip errors and propagation errors, and gate errors offering insights into opportunities for mitigating errors in the context of …

Structure Of The South-Central Skagit Gneiss Complex: Implications For Rheological Response To Magmatic Flare-Ups, Jeffery Wegener

Master's Theses

The Skagit Gneiss Complex in the North Cascades magmatic arc consists of Late Cretaceous to Eocene orthogneiss and partially migmatitic paragneiss. Orthogneiss protoliths intruded during two magmatic flare-ups, making the Skagit Gneiss an ideal location to study the relationship between flare-ups and deformation. Geologic mapping, microstructural analysis, and U-Pb dating of zircon were used to construct a timeline of magmatism, metamorphism and deformation in a portion of the Skagit Gneiss. A tonalitic gneiss intruded between ~79-73 at the beginning of the older flare-up and an ~60 Ma, tonalitic to granodioritic, leucocratic orthogneiss intruded at the end of this flare-up. NW-SE …

An Exploration Of Dimensionality Reduction Of Dynamics On Lie Groups Via Structure-Aware Canonical Correlation Analysis, Wooyoung Chung

Master's Theses

Incorporating prior knowledge into a data-driven modeling problem can drastically improve performance, reliability, and generalization outside of the training sample. The stronger the structural properties, the more effective these improvements become. Manifolds are a powerful nonlinear generalization of Euclidean space for modeling finite dimensions. When additionally assuming that the manifold carries (Lie) group structure, this imposes a drastically stricter global constraint. The range of their applications is very wide and includes the important case of robotic tasks. We apply this idea to Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA). In traditional CCA one constructs a hierarchical sequence of maximal correlations of up to …

“It Makes Me Wonder, How I Keep From Goin’ Under:” Deconstructing Cultural Strengths In The Stories Of Black College And University Students, Sikeza C. Fowlks

Master's Theses

To deconstruct conceptualizations of Black cultural resiliency outside of the perception of the current dominant culture, the present study interviewed Black university and college students for their narratives about their perceptions of Black culture and how they navigate systemic oppression. To create a full conceptualization of Black issues and cultural resilience this study explored the current literature around Black experiences of racism and its relationship to Race-Based Trauma. Additionally, the researcher expanded upon current interventions used to mitigate Race-Based Trauma and how Black culture is currently defined within systemic oppression. To answer the study’s research question framework around Black cultural …

Assessing The Role Of Steam Explosivity In Shallow And Deep Marine Environments, Frederick Ede

Master's Theses

Volcaniclastic deposits formed in shallow and deep marine environments show strikingly different characteristics resulting from the ability of steam to assist in lava fragmentation. Deep marine deposits come from recent lava flows at Axial Seamount, formed around 1,500 m water depth, while shallow marine samples come from Miocene Columbia River Basalt Group (CRBG) lava flows that were emplaced in a shallow marine to subaerial environment and are now exposed on the Oregon coast. Volcaniclastic material from these two environments was compared using granulometry, componentry, and mapping. Lithofacies from the CRBG contained abundant ash and lapilli sized clasts with a high …

Seasonal Dynamics Of The Introduced Sponge Hymeniacidon Perlevis In The Elkhorn Slough, California, Usa, Jackson Hoeke

Master's Theses

Hymeniacidon perlevis is a cosmopolitan sponge with a seasonal life cycle We investigated seasonal and interannual dynamics of H. perlevis in Elkhorn Slough estuary, where it is an introduced species, and explored correlations between sponge cover and environmental conditions. We used sponge cover to estimate the potential effects H. perlevis on its environment and how those could vary across its seasonal life cycle. We found that successful recruitment is currently restricted to the upper estuary and while it varies annually, the frequency and density of sponge recruits have generally increased from 2007 to 2023. A seasonal life cycle was confirmed …

“Lovely Is The Hillside” An Ecocritical Analysis Of The Narrative Function Of Setting Elements In Njal’S Saga, Michelle Fae Jones

Master's Theses

This paper uses an ecocritical lens to examine the portrayal of Iceland’s physical environment in Njal’s Saga. Drawing on historical and scientific context, this paper applies the ecocritical lens using an interdisciplinary approach to explore how the author crafted a narrative that idealizes Iceland’s Saga Age, selectively highlighting aspects of the environment that align with a vision of the land’s fertility and the people’s honor. This paper seeks to uncover the nuances of the author’s portrayal through a comparative analysis of four English translations of the saga. Applying the ecocritical lens allows for a deeper discussion of the implications for …

History Education: Learning History From Community College Students’ Perspectives, Mylinh V. Pham

Dissertations

Given the current political climate of division, the study of history is important now more than ever, but the value of the study of history has been marginalized. This study used student focus groups to understand ways in which history could be taught in such a way that its importance is emphasized through relevance and connection to current social and political issues and through student-centered learning. This study also determined how history could help students evaluate and think critically about historical content. This study drew on the experiences of community college students who have taken a higher education history course …

Leading With An Intercultural Mindset: Leadership Development Programs For International Students, Keri A. Toma Loehrer

Dissertations

This mixed methods study explored co-curricular student leadership development programs that included intercultural learning and were designed for international students studying at higher education institutions in the United States. The study aimed to better understand: (a) common program characteristics; (b) program administrator perceptions; and (c) the international student experience. Data was collected in a two-phase explanatory sequential design, involving surveys and semi-structured interviews. Six main content areas across all programs were identified: (a) diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI); (b) global engagement; (c) intercultural learning; (d) leadership development; (e) personal and professional development; and (f) supporting the international community. Administrators generally …

Teacher And Student Perspectives Of Technology Use In Elementary School Classrooms, Anthony Oskar Alvarado

Dissertations

This study explored student and teacher perspectives of technology use at Franklin Elementary School in South San José, CA, using qualitative, quantitative, and observational methods, including interviews, observations, and surveys. Thirteen teachers responded to a survey on educational technology use. Among this group, eleven provided interviews, and nine invited classroom observations from 1st through 6th grades. Additionally, sixty-nine 3rd to 6th-grade students were surveyed about their views on technology use. The study found that technology use in teaching is widespread and integral, not just an add-on. Observations and teacher interviews showed high engagement and interest in technology tools, primarily supporting …

Con Respeto Y Dignidad: Transforming Educational Experiences For Students Of Color By Addressing Disproportionate Discipline Practices, Selene Munoz

Dissertations

Discipline practices wield significant influence over the social dynamics within educational settings and profoundly impact students’ ability to attain academic and social gains crucial for their success. The racialization of school discipline has been linked to negative effects on student’s academic trajectories and life outcomes. Consequently, school administrators can play a crucial role in effecting cultural change within their organizations to support disciplinary practices that uphold students’ educational dignity. This study looked at the strategies employed by secondary level administrators to shift their school cultures aimed at addressing disproportionate disciplinary practices. Using a mixed methods approach, this study draws upon …

Furman, Burford J., San Jose State University

Emeritus and Retired Faculty Biographies

Stanford University, Mechanical Engineering, Ph.D. 1991

University of California, Davis ‐ Mechanical Engineering, M.S. 1982

University of California, Davis ‐ Mechanical Engineering, B.S. 1980

Lindholm-Leary, Kathryn J., San Jose State University

Emeritus and Retired Faculty Biographies

University of California, Los Angeles ,Psychology, Ph.D. 1981

University of California, Los Angeles, Psychology, M.A. 1977

University of California, Santa Barbara, Psychology, B.A, 1976

Automated Fuel Vending Machine, Kush Desai

Student RSCA

This paper introduced an Automated Fuel Vending Machine system meticulously designed to address fuel dispensing challenges in developing countries. Traditional vending machines entail significant yearly installation costs and substantially burden economies with limited resources. This system emerged as a practical solution to alleviate long queues at petrol pumps, particularly in densely populated regions such as India. The system reduced labor costs and simplified fuel dispensing by eliminating the need for a salesperson. The design focused on creating a cost-effective and easily installable solution, meeting the modern demand for efficient and rapid service. The automated system proved a feasible alternative, offering …

Assessing Gtfs Accuracy, Gregory L. Newmark

Mineta Transportation Institute

The promised benefits of the General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) Schedule and Realtime standards are dependent on the underlying quality of the data. Despite this fundamental reliance, there has been relatively little research on techniques and strategies to assess GTFS accuracy. The need for such assessment is growing as federal and state governments increasingly require transit agencies to make these data available to the public. This research fills this gap by presenting a suite of methods and metrics to assess the temporal accuracy of GTFS Realtime and the spatial accuracy of GTFS Schedule feeds. The temporal assessment demonstrates an approach …

Time-To-Failure Prediction Of Fine-Grained Soil Slopes Subject To Weather-Driven Deterioration, Arm M. Morsy

Mineta Transportation Institute

Embankments have been widely used in the construction of transportation and flood defense infrastructure. Embankments constructed from clays experience a suite of weather-driven deterioration processes that lead to a progressive loss of hydromechanical performance, causing potentially severe and costly consequences. This study aimed to predict the time to failure of aging, deteriorating clay embankments supporting transportation infrastructure. A multi-phase numerical modeling approach was developed to replicate the long-term, weather-driven, hydromechanical behavior of clay embankments. This model simulated the behavior of a number of well-documented embankment failure case studies that had sufficient data to derive the necessary soil properties and climate …

Ten Years Forward: An Evaluation Of California’S Active Transportation Program, Bruce Appleyard, Mario Carbajal, Madison Swayne, Nell Ahangarfabrik, Megan Honey

Mineta Transportation Institute

California’s Active Transportation Program (ATP) is a competitive, grant-based program that serves as a major funding stream for active transportation infrastructure in California. The program has six goals based on increasing nonmotorized transportation, safety, equity, sustainability, and health. Evaluation of the ATP’s administrative and scoring processes is crucial to ensure goals are met as equitably and efficiently as possible. Additionally, establishing a methodology for evaluating the safety impacts of active transportation projects is critically important. Through a series of interviews and an extensive review of the documents and rubrics of the program, this report discusses how the Active Transportation Program …

Liu, Mengxiong, San Jose State University

Emeritus and Retired Faculty Biographies

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, School of Informational & Library Studies, Ph.D., 1990

University of Denver, Denver, CO, Graduate School of Librarianship & Information Management, M.L.S., 1983

International Studies University, Shanghai, China, English Department, B.A., 1968

Comparison Of Transport Models In Dense Plasmas, Zachary A. Johnson, Luciano G. Silvestri, George M. Petrov, Liam G. Stanton, Michael S. Murillo

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

We compare a variety of models used for the calculation of transport coefficients in dense plasmas, including average-atom models, models based on kinetic theory, structure matching effective potentials, and pair-potential molecular dynamics. In particular, we focus on the parameter space investigated in the second charged-particle transport coefficient code comparison workshop [Stanek et al., Phys. Plasmas 31, 052104 (2024)]. Each model is based on the self-consistent output of our average-atom calculations. Ionic transport properties are generated from implicit electron pair matched molecular dynamics simulations, bypassing the need for either dynamical electron simulations or on-the-fly electronic structure calculations. These matched pair potentials …

Evolutionary Genomic Analyses Of Canine E. Coli Infections Identify A Relic Capsular Locus Associated With Resistance To Multiple Classes Of Antimicrobials, Kristina Ceres, Jordan D. Zehr, Chloe Murrell, Jean K. Millet, Qi Sun, Holly C. Mcqueary, Alanna Horton, Casey Cazer, Kelly Sams, Guillaume Reboul, William B. Andreopoulos, Patrick K. Mitchell, Renee Anderson, Rebecca Franklin-Guild, Brittany D. Cronk, Bryce J. Stanhope, Claire R. Burbick, Rebecca Wolking, Laura Peak

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli are the leading cause of death attributed to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) worldwide, and the known AMR mechanisms involve a range of functional proteins. Here, we employed a pangenome wide association study (GWAS) approach on over 1,000 E. coli isolates from sick dogs collected across the US and Canada and identified a strong statistical association (empirical P < 0.01) of AMR, involving a range of antibiotics to a group 1 capsular (CPS) gene cluster. This cluster included genes under relaxed selection pressure, had several loci missing, and had pseudogenes for other key loci. Furthermore, this cluster is widespread in E. coli and Klebsiella clinical isolates across multiple host species. Earlier studies demonstrated that the octameric CPS polysaccharide export protein Wza can transmit macrolide antibiotics into the E. coli periplasm. We suggest that the CPS in question, and its highly divergent Wza, functions as an antibiotic trap, preventing antimicrobial penetration. We also highlight the high diversity of lineages circulating in dogs across all regions studied, the overlap with human lineages, and regional prevalence of resistance to multiple antimicrobial classes.