Digital Commons Network^™

Borates As Infrared Drying Agents And Bulking Agents In Paper Coatings, Balarama K. Morla

Masters Theses

In the paper industry, the drying process is the second most energy consuming process after the pulping process; it accounts for around 35% of the total energy consumption. If energy consumption in the drying process can be reduced, the cost of paper production would be decreased considerably. The more recent and wide acceptance of the use of infrared energy for the drying of coated grades has led to many developments and improvements in materials and controls, making IR a practical and safe method for the paper industry. This process is mainly based on the absorption of infrared radiation by paper …

A Spatial Temporal Analysis Of Infant Mortality In The Midwest Industrial Belt: 1940 And 2000, Julie Macarthur

Masters Theses

This study compares and analyzes the spatial patterns of infant mortality (IM) for 1940 and 2000 using county-level socio-economic variables in the Industrial Belt, assesses the changes in IM as an indicator of the living standards for the population over time and space, and explains the changes. The region was delineated using 1940 employment data. OLS, spatial regression, and exploratory spatial data analysis were used on IM (the dependent variable) and socio-economic variables to study the standard of living in the region. Some important factors were statistically significant in the various models including: minority population, levels of industrialization, and urbanization …

Bridging Oceans: An Occupational Therapist's Journey Toward Client-Centeredness, Anna Liedberg Miron

Masters Theses

This study blends an autobiographical approach with a person's own narrative about her recovery experience to create an analytic framework for exploring how narratives of clients and practitioners can be used to inform occupational therapy practice. Beth and I shared 12 hours of audio-taped conversations about her recovery/rehabilitation experience one year after she had experienced a stroke. Beth was intimately involved in the process of editing her story during the research process. Narrative analysis that takes into account the flow of time was used in addition to identification of key stories that Beth felt were important in her recovery-process. Congruence …

Athletic Trainers' Perceptions Of Competence In Therapeutic Exercise, Christopher J. Jones

Masters Theses

As the athletic training profession continues to expand, it is necessary to evaluate the preparedness of the entry-level certified athletic trainer (ATC). The purpose of this research is to determine if entry-level certified athletic trainers perceive that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform specific tasks related to therapeutic exercise.

An online questionnaire was sent out to 450 entry-level certified athletic trainers in District Four. A total of 69 subjects returned the survey for a response rate of 15.3%. The questionnaire utilized a Likert-type scale consisting of questions derived in the area of therapeutic exercise of the NATA …

Stratigraphy Of Lake Michigan Lobe Deposits In Van Buren County, Michigan, Steven P. Beukema

Masters Theses

The surficial glacial deposits and landforms of Van Buren County were recently mapped at a 1:24,000 scale as part of a STATEMAP project. Several borings were drilled to supplement the surface data. Six of these borings were characterized in detail by means of gamma ray logging, textural analysis, and X-ray diffraction of the clay-sized fraction of the diamicton units.

Results from this study reveal two diamicton units at stratigraphically distinct positions that can be correlated across the county and that are separated by a thick sequence of lacustrine sediments. Correlation of diamicton and lacustrine units was accomplished by analyzing several …

In-Group Disparaging Humor: Conditions Of Amusement And Consequences For Social Identity, Mark Allen Ferguson

Masters Theses

The present research develops and empirically tests a theoretical model of ingroup disparaging humor. In an experiment, one hundred and seventy-five undergraduates were exposed to a comedy routine that disparaged an in- group, an outgroup, or did not contain disparaging content. Subjects then completed measures of amusement and social identity. Results suggest that in-group disparaging humor can simultaneously elicit amusement and threaten social identity. The implications of these results for understanding the effects of in-group disparaging humor on amusement and social identity are discussed.

Steamboat Passenger Ferries In Nineteenth Century London: A Cultural Survey, Jennifer Wohlberg

Masters Theses

Traditionally, steamboats and their history have belonged to the area of antiquarians. Many sources in my bibliography focus on the design and use of the boats and neglect the social and cultural impact the boats had on mid-Victorian London life. Steamboats, however, were an important transportation system in mid-Victorian London, so that a study of steamboats can provide an insight into mid-Victorian times. In this thesis, I will place steamboat design construction and use in the context of the social and cultural worlds of mid-Victorian London and the River Thames.

The results of my research yielded a thesis describing the …

African American Single Mother - An In-Depth Study, Donna Jean Russau

Masters Theses

This thesis investigates the life and role of the African American Single Mother (AASM) in America as the topic of this study. The AASM in this study will voice her experiences. The point of view of this thesis is that the AASM is in the unique position of being the only person able to convey facts about her life from her personal perspective. Through the voice of the AASM, this researcher will develop a written document which describes her life experiences and roles in which she operates in her family. This study will give the view of life of AASM's …

Optical Solitons In A Three-State Medium, Talal Ghannam

Masters Theses

When a beam of light propagates within a typical medium, absorption is a common phenomenon. This happens when the frequency of the light is close to a resonant frequency of the atoms composing the medium. But in the past few decades, it has been shown that in certain circumstances, carefully chosen pulse shapes are able to propagate without significant absorption even when the frequency of the light is close to an atomic resonant frequency. It was called Self Induced Transparency (SIT).

This phenomenon was intensively studied in the two-state systems. On the other hand, the three-state systems seems not to …

Investigation Of Parental/Caregiver Concerns Of Children With Spasticity, Lynda Johnson-Cross

Masters Theses

Although there is capacious documentation on the concerns associated with parenting/care giving the disabled child, the concerns of parents/caregiver of children with the specific condition of spasticity is lacking. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to begin to determine the concerns of parents/caregivers of children with spasticity as they specifically relate to care giving. An extensive qualitative based survey interview was utilized to gather information from three informants. Analysis revealed clusters of concerns in the Nature of Caregiving, Spasticity Encounters, and Parental/Caregiver Comments.

The Qualitative Investigation Of The Social Construction Of Female Sexuality Within A Sexualized Work Environment, Christi L. Young

Masters Theses

This qualitative investigation seeks to identify the sociocultural determinants and psychoemotional ramifications of essentialist gender role socialization on female employees in a sexualized work environment (SWE). Sexualized work environments incorporate work and sexuality and exist on a continuum according to the frequency and intensity of the sexual economic exchange that takes place within them. In this study, in-depth interviews were conducted with ten female employees at a comedy club to explore the social construction of female sexuality in such an environment. Subjects commented on the various advantages and disadvantages of working in a SWE as well as on general issues …

Evaluating Violence In Slasher Films: Similarity And Social Identification With The Final Girl, Felicia L. Sanders

Masters Theses

Prior research has shown that the media can have an impact on behavior, perception, and gender roles. This study examines violence against women in slasher films through the lenses of similarity theory and social identity theory. Both theories suggest we are attracted to others who are similar to ourselves. In slasher films, the final girl is depicted as a strong character that exemplifies many qualities viewers may see in themselves. Thus, it was hypothesized that as viewers' perceived similarity with the final girl the more they would like her character and the film. Results suggest that viewers perceived similarity the …

Evaluating Task-Interspersal Outcomes With Children Diagnosed With Autism: Systematic And Direct Replications, Ivy M. Chong

Masters Theses

This study sought to replicate findings by Charlop et al. (1992) in which presenting the same consequences for maintenance (previously learned tasks) and nonacquired tasks was found to stagnate learning on nonacquired tasks during task interspersal. Initially, we conducted a systematic replication (Study I). However, presenting the same consequences for maintenance and nonacquired tasks did not appear to stagnate learning for our participants. All participants reached mastery criterion for the nonacquired vocal task during baseline and two of three participants reached mastery criterion for the nonacquired motor task during baseline. Subsequently, we conducted a direct replication (Study 2). Again, all …

From Snakes To Meaning: Interpretation And Explanation Of Traditional Sub-Saharan African Religious Ethnographic Data, Joel Mort

Masters Theses

Concerns about accepted approaches to ethnographic data have arisen in terms of how scholars attempt to explain and interpret the formation, transmission, and persistence of seemingly bizarre religious ideas and practices. I would like to suggest a new way to make sense of ethnographic data regarding religious thought and action.

My contention is that the explanatory and interpretive methods employed by the majority of religion scholars are mistakenly and unknowingly informed by intuitive background theories. As a result of using intuitive assumptions rather than an established scientific theoretical tradition as the basis for interpretive inference the conclusions offered by these …

Crt Versus Lcd Monitors For Soft Proofing: Quantitative And Visual Considerations, Veronika Chovancova

Masters Theses

Quantitative and visual considerations of accuracy of colors in images displayed on two types of monitors employing a soft proofing system were accomplished in this research work. Soft proofing proposes possible savings in material and time, which are essential issues of current digital and quick turn around workflow. The investigation focuses on the quantitative evaluation process of color monitor profiles along with the color quality of software used to achieve the created profiles. Specific tests are provided to look at the color quality of the monitors and output profiles in greater details. Also, a general comparison of the CRT and …

The Design Of A Cnc Mill For Product Prototyping, Haasan Rabe

Masters Theses

Rapid prototyping is widely used to reduce time to market in product design and development. Today's systems are used by engineers to better understand and communicate their product designs as well as to make rapid tooling to manufacture those products. Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) milling machines are part of this technology. This project will present the design of a small CNC machine, and production, and analysis of a small CNC machine. This machine has the characteristics demanded by the industrial and academic designers. Studying the existing machines aided in setting specifications for the new design. Comparing the performance of the …

Data Collection System For Putting Analysis, Joel Oostdyk

Masters Theses

A system was designed and built to measure four different physiological variables of a golf putting action. Putters as well as weight pads were outfitted with strain gages while optical sensors were used to detect the golf ball presence. Through the use of this equipment the data relating to weight shift between the golfer’s feet, strain on the putter shaft, and golf ball velocity was recorded. A computer with the Linux operating system was equipped with a data acquisition card and programs were written so the computer could collect data. A graphical user interface was also added to simplify the …

Evaluation Of The Systems Theory Based Interdisciplinary Patient Safety Practice Guideline On Restraint Reduction And Fall Prevention, Steven D. Eberth

Masters Theses

Patient safety remains one of the most profoundly complex and important issues in healthcare systems especially regarding the use of restraint and the prevention of falls. Current topic guidelines suggest a "systems approach." These guidelines, however, oriented toward solution application using analytical problem-based approach. The development of this practice guideline was in response to a desire for theory-based practice that could guide outcomes. This practice guideline transforms systems theory into a guide for use by a leader/manager and a tool for the practitioner to rethink patient safety in a more holistic manner. This study was conducted in critical care, older …

Right Hemisphere Effects On Language Processing: Suppression Or Activation Deficit, Sarah A. Orjada

Masters Theses

This study was designed to add to the body of research that examines the possibility of semantic activation or suppression deficits as underlying right hemisphere communication disorders. Modified treatment techniques for activation and suppression deficits proposed by Myers (1999) were used as stimuli for the experimental tasks. A total of four RHD participants and four control participants matched in age, gender, and level of education were included in the study. The study aimed to answer the following questions. Do RHD or control participants have higher scores on the suppression tasks? Do RHD participants have longer reaction times? Do RHD or …

Social Agency And Dieffenderfer Ware: A Multiscalar Analysis Investigating Current Archaeological Perspectives Concerning Style, Social Dynamics, Chaine Operatoire And Practice Theory, Timothy L. Bober

Masters Theses

Dieffenderfer Ware is a recently defined ceramic type found exclusively at the Dieffenderfer site (20SJ179) in southwest Michigan. This Late Woodland (ca. A.D. 1000-1400) pottery exhibits Iroquoian traits which are atypical in this region, but beyond that, very little is known about this ceramic type and the people that produced it. Research assessing the social agency of the producers of Dieffenderfer Ware was carried out by employing the chaine operatoire model, which examines the life history of artifacts. Dieffenderfer Ware was compared to the locally produced Allegan Ware. Social groups will procure, construct, use, and discard ceramics differently. Significant differences …

Crimes On College Campuses, Angela M. Turner

Masters Theses

A college or university is not a place where crime is expected. Crime was not recognized as a discrete campus problem until recently. Information on this topic is limited and difficult to obtain. The purpose of my research is to measure the amount of crime on the campus of Western Michigan University (WMU). My research is focused on the crimes of rape, sexual assault and theft. The victims I study are students and resident hall assistants. My research method includes a self-report survey from a sample of 300 students and resident hall assistants enrolled at WMU.

I provide statistics from …

The Immediate Effects Of Vestibular Stimulation On The Language Performance Of A Child With Autism, Jennifer L. Sova

Masters Theses

There is a proposed link between sensory processing abilities and language performance in children with autism. Research evaluating such a relationship is limited. This study sought to evaluate the hypothesis that language expression is facilitated by the application of vestibular stimulation in a child with autism. The purpose of the present study was to implement language interaction techniques and measure the outcome of language performance in a 4-year-old child with autism and sensory integration dysfunction. The child was evaluated in regards to vestibular stimulation and its facilitative effect on language production for social communicative purposes. Direct observation was used to …

Evaluation Of The Pediatric Test Of Brain Injury, Heather K. Koole

Masters Theses

This study was designed to evaluate the Pediatric Test of Brain Injury (PTBI), as well as to examine information obtained from informal measures in assessing children and adolescents with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Three students with TBI and three grade- and gender- matched subjects participated in this study. All six students were administered the PTBI, and their performances were given raw scores, rated for level of difficulty in performing the tasks, and compared among and across the two groups. The students with TBI were interviewed by the graduate student researcher regarding self-perceptions of their strengths and weaknesses. In addition, their …

A Study Of Female Characteristics And Images In Home Video Games, Carl P. Apple

Masters Theses

In the past 30 years, video games have progressed from a technical novelty to a $17 billion industry. However, a majority of players are still male; many blame this on the overwhelming amount of male-oriented images and themes in popular video games. Technological literacy is becoming a prerequisite for employment in many jobs and there is a proven link between interest in video games and increased computer literacy. Studies also show that video games help improve cognitive skills like hand-eye coordination and spatial dexterity. This content analysis examined elements of 63 Sony PlayStation video games, quantifying male and female characters …

The Politics Of Exclusion And Paranoia: The Know Nothing Party As A Case Study In Frustration-Aggression Analysis, Elton W. Weintz

Masters Theses

Historically, American democracy has been based on a policy of exclusion where the empowered have enjoyed the luxury of deciding which groups would be eligible to participate fully in the great American experiment--a flawed system based upon discriminatory notions of class, racism, sexism, and nativism. Richard Hofstadter's paranoia interpretation--that irrational beliefs in conspiracies led to civic participation in exclusionary movements--provides some rationale for this exclusionary behavior.

Taking a multidisciplinary approach, this paper applies the social psychological theory of frustration-aggression analysis in conjunction with Hofstadter's paranoia interpretation in an attempt to further understand exclusionary behavior in American history. In particular, this …

Shoreline Perceptions And Planning Of Five Lakes In Kalamazoo County, Michigan, Jonathan Peter Marsch

Masters Theses

Lakeshore development can have adverse affects on inland lakes. Effective planning and control is necessary to help communities and lakes stay healthy in the future. This paper provides planning for five lakes in Kalamazoo County, Michigan through the examination of lakeshore residents' perceptions of lake issues and the zoning ordinances of their local jurisdictions. Shoreline residents and jurisdictions around Austin, Gull, Long, West, and Woods Lakes are targeted in the survey and ordinance reviews. Evaluation of the survey through various statistical tests provides insight on residents' views of their rationale for living on the lakes, identification of lakeshore problems, and …

Style, Ethnicity, Technology, And Practice: Analysis Of A Material Culture Assemblage From The Paleoindian-Archaic Cultural Transition In The Northwestern Great Lakes, Matthew R. Laidler

Masters Theses

This study examines issues concerning the theoretical basis of style and ethnicity in archaeology through analysis of a material culture (lithic) assemblage from the Late Paleoindian-Archaic cultural transition period In the Northwestern Great Lakes region of the United States. A theoretical framework utilizing practice theory as expounded by Pierre Bourdieu is applied to an interpretation of both the theoretical and concrete issues involved in this analysis. Using the context of an interpreted ritual/mortuary site, a social archaeology concerned with the social, political, and organizational context of production, use, and deposition of technological objects is developed to address style and ethnicity …

The Relationship Among Gender, Gender Orientation, And Class Participation Of Middle School Students, Rebecca M. Fisher

Masters Theses

Middle school students were observed to examine the relationship among gender, gender orientation, and class participation. Instances of volunteering and verbal participation in class were recorded.

In addition to being observed, participants completed Harter et al.'s (1998) Gender Orientation Questionnaire to identify their gender orientation. A student's gender orientation could be masculine, feminine, androgynous, or unclassified.

Results indicated that male students participated more in class than female students. Also, class participation rates did not differ for girls based on gender orientation. There were no differences between male and female students in solicited participation rates. However, male students participated more than …

Personal And Interpersonal Predictors Of Worry In Male And Female High School Students, Barbara Anne Davis

Masters Theses

This study identified which among several factors would best predict the tendency to worry in male and female adolescents. The potential predictors were divided into two different categories: personal and interpersonal factors. Personal factors included perfectionism, self-consciousness, and locus of control. Interpersonal factors included parental attachment, parenting style, and peer attachment.

Participants in the study completed several scales that measured the predictors. The data were then analyzed to determine the relative contribution of each factor in predicting worry, and to specify the factors that best predict worry. Gender differences in worry levels and in how the factors predicted worry were …

Individual Phonological Awareness Training For Speech/Language Impaired First Graders, Sarah Weaver

Masters Theses

The purpose of the present study is to determine the effects of individual phonological awareness and phonics training emphasizing auditory, motoric, and alphabetic properties of phonemes with 3 children who did not make substantial gains following classroom phonological awareness intervention. Subjects were enrolled in the first grade and exhibited speech and/or language impairments. The individual phonological awareness program contained 3 parts: (1) phonological awareness, (2) phoneme-grapheme correspondence, and (3) decoding and spelling and employed a single subject multiple probe baseline across behaviors design. Results indicated that individual treatment was successful for teaching phonological awareness, phoneme-grapheme correspondence, and decoding and spelling. …