Digital Commons Network^™

Time Series Anomaly Detection Using Generative Adversarial Networks, Shyam Sundar Saravanan

Masters Theses

"Anomaly detection is widely used in network intrusion detection, autonomous driving, medical diagnosis, credit card frauds, etc. However, several key challenges remain open, such as lack of ground truth labels, presence of complex temporal patterns, and generalizing over different datasets. In this work, we propose TSI-GAN, an unsupervised anomaly detection model for time-series that can learn complex temporal patterns automatically and generalize well, i.e., no need for choosing dataset-specific parameters, making statistical assumptions about underlying data, or changing model architectures. To achieve these goals, we convert each input time-series into a sequence of 2D images using two encoding techniques with …

Evaluating The Influence Of Operator Practices On Hydraulic Shovel Productivity And Energy Consumption Using Telemetry Data, Noah Adekunle Aluko

Masters Theses

"Hydraulic shovels are increasingly being adopted in the mining industry, which is known for its significant energy consumption and carbon emissions. Technological improvements in hydraulic shovels aim at bolstering energy efficiency and productivity because of the drive to curb energy consumption and enhance energy efficiency. However, one aspect that is often overlooked is the vital role of operators. Although the influence of operators’ practices on excavators’ energy efficiency has been acknowledged in past studies, there is a paucity of quantitative research assessing this influence in the context of hydraulic shovels.

The main objectives of this study are to 1) develop …

Does Health Oriented Leadership And Access To On-Demand Mental Health Therapists Via Employee Assistance Programs Improve Employee Well-Being And Engagement?, Amber Rachelle Davis

Masters Theses

"Employee mental health effects are informally relevant in all facets of working adults’ lives. Considering the life-altering effects of the 2019 pandemic on work and society, mental health and work share applicability in conversations related to organizational outcomes. Based on the job demands-resource theory, personal demands are high in organizations where workers must adjust to returning to onsite work, in settings occupied by varying personalities, and ever-present political tension. These adjustments can be stressful for people and add new workplace challenges.

Work stress was found to be an antecedent for burnout (Tummers & Bakker, 2021), and leaders play an essential …

Enabling Smart Healthcare Applications Through Visible Light Communication Networks, Jack Manhardt

Masters Theses

"Future smart healthcare operations are envisioned to require the support of high-performance wireless networks. Researchers are presented with a problem, however, as the hospital environment brings unique challenges to the application of traditional radio-frequency wireless communication networks due to health concerns and electromagnetic compatibility standards. To meet these challenges and support the advancement of high-quality healthcare, we propose the use of an alternative wireless technology in visible light communication (VLC). Contributing to the growing interest in VLC amongst researchers, we construct both a VLC network simulation testbed as well as real-world testbed to serve as a platform for the development …

Fiber Assisted Re-Assembly Preformed Particle Gel For Conformance Control, Zhe Sun

Masters Theses

"In Enhanced Oil Recovery technology today, gel treatments have been implemented as a cost-effective method to improve the oil sweep efficiency in reservoirs by plugging the high permeability zones. This study presents a novel gel composition to be used in conformance control in order to improve oil recovery for mature oilfields.

The product is a fiber-assist re-assembly preformed particle gel which could be generalized to the preformed particle gels (PPG). The product developed in this study could be injected into the reservoir act as a conformance control agent by plugging water thief zones and channels in the beginning process. Due …

Alienation In Life And Film, Chase A. Hawkins

Masters Theses

The thesis begins by detailing the philosophy motivating the plot of the screenplay, which is the majority of the work. A short critical paper explores the way Wes Anderson uses dialogue to create or avoid emotional moments in some of his more complicated works.

Usage Of The Chinese Notation System Versus The Western Notation System Among Elementary Students, Yohei Sparks

Masters Theses

This research project uses the Chinese music notation system, Jianpu, in a modern elementary classroom setting in the United States to see if it is a usable asset. As Reilly Elementary School is already a bilingual school within a multicultural community with various talents, this idea could bring benefits to the students at this school. This paper examines what the Chinese notation system includes and how it could be used both as a classroom tool and as a suggestion for future researchers. The methodology used here was a lecture and an assessment of understanding followed by a survey to determine …

Empowher: Creating Digital Pathways To Funding And Cultivating Community For Women Entrepreneurs, Nicole Riojas

Masters Theses

”EmpowHER: Creating Digital Pathways to Funding and Cultivating Community for Women Entrepreneurs” embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the dynamic world of women entrepreneurship, deciphering the intricate dynamics that influence their journey to success. With a focus on fostering gender diversity and promoting innovation, this thesis delves into the profound impact of accessible funding mechanisms and community engagement on women entrepreneurs’ trajectories while in the growth stage of their business. As women-owned enterprises continue to rise, this project dissects their economic potential and explores how innovative practices can dismantle the barriers that hinder their progress. By employing various research methods …

Biblical Literacy Among Millennial Christians, Benjamin Rivera Necochea

Masters Theses

The modern Christian has more access to scripture today than in any previous generation. The Bible can be accessed through mobile apps, computers, and the internet as well as by printed copies (Wycliffe.net). Yet, biblical literacy is declining at an alarming rate, especially among the millennial generation (Fulks 9). This thesis will examine why biblical disengagement is occurring and what implications it has on the faith of Christian millennials. To better understand the impact on this generation, research was conducted through a series of research questions: 1. What defines a millennial Christian? 2. Why are they actively leaving the church? …

The Return Of A Voice: Implementing Smart Technology To Provide An Outlet That Aids In Communication For Non-Verbal Children With Autism, Timothy Kirk Arquitt

Masters Theses

The Current state of communication based software designed to aid those with non-verbal autism is extremely limited or overly complex. The purpose of this research is to look into the world of communication based software aids that provide accessibility options for those with non-verbal autism. This paper looks to assess what is currently availability draw conclusions regarding gaps within the research and technology in order to derive a solution in the form of a mobile phone application that can serve to fill in the aforementioned gaps. The major focus of this study is to pinpoint exactly what elements of design …

Sustainable Solution For Plastic Waste Management And Education Campaigns To Mitigate Plastic Consumption And Foster Behavior Change, Mayowa Akande

Masters Theses

The issue of plastic waste has become a significant environmental concern in contemporary times. Given the escalating rates of plastic production and consumption worldwide, an urgent need is to implement effective strategies to manage plastic waste. This article aims to investigate sustainable strategies for managing plastic waste through an analysis of existing research and exemplary approaches in the domain. This research assesses diverse methodologies, such as recycling, waste minimization, biodegradable substitutes, and policy interventions, and appraises their efficacy, obstacles, and prospects for enduring sustainability. The results of this research emphasize the significance of inclusive and cohesive approaches that engage various …

Visualizing The Risks: The Significance Of Graphic Design In Educating Women About The Risks Of Prescription Opioids & Pre-Existing Mental Health Conditions, Natascha Foret Truong

Masters Theses

This thesis explores the critical issue of educating women about the increased risks of prescription opioid use and misuse relating to a co-occurring mental health illness. The research-based graphic design solutions proposed in the thesis aim to create awareness and provide knowledge to women on this matter. It is imperative to address this issue as it has severe consequences for women, their families, and society. This thesis utilizes research and best practices from scholarly articles, case studies, visual analysis, personas, and mind mapping to present graphic design solutions based on evidence. These solutions aim to educate women about the gender-specific …

A Comparative Analysis Of The Doctrine Of Bodily Resurrection In Jehovah's Witnesses Versus Traditional Christianity, Carey A. Murphy

Masters Theses

The present thesis aims to provide a critical analysis of the immaterial resurrection proposed by the Governing Body of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society and, in doing so, demonstrates the superiority of the orthodox Christian position on the bodily resurrection because of its consideration of key aspects such as Christology, the resurrection, gospel, and eschatology. The first chapter explains how the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society became a global religious organization. In chapter two, Jehovah's Witness documentation on the immaterial resurrection of Christ is presented, with occasional commentary on issues. Chapter three delves into the historical perspective of the …

"Ear Training For Worship Musicians:" An Applied Curriculum Project, Lauren Elizabeth Dillon

Masters Theses

The purpose of this applied research curriculum project is to assess the effectiveness of the curriculum “Ear Training for Worship Musicians” for non-traditionally trained college students using contemporary musical examples, introducing basic piano skills, and applying the Nashville number system. Current curriculum trends in aural skills training have not addressed the issue of teaching harmonic dictation for worship music to college students who are not traditionally trained. This study applies a quasi-experimental research design with identical pre- and post- implementation quantitative tests and a qualitative online survey once the curriculum is complete. Twenty participants were recruited for the online curriculum …

The Problem Of Deification Within The Church Context In India: An Implausible Deification, Sadananda Rao Matangi

Masters Theses

The self-deification has been the main point on which several related issues have been discussed. No humans are equal with God but are only the servants of God. Even Jesus Christ agreed that the Father is greater than He. The concept of self-deification cannot be used overtly or covertly for self-elevation, Sacro-egoism, Sacro-egotism, self-advantage, or self-probability. On accepting Jesus as one’s personal Lord and Savior, a person may get the blessing of forgiveness of sins, sanctification, salvation, filling of the Holy Spirit, assurance of resurrection, and being with the Lord (on the Second Coming). That does not mean they are …

Faith Journey - A Collection Of Devotions And Memoirs To Encourage, Anita V. Presnell

Masters Theses

Faith Journey: A Collection of Devotions and Memoirs to Encourage contains relevant personal stories and devotionals, including short and longer devotions accompanied by poetry. My writing aims to pen devotions to encourage others in their walk of faith. The thesis takes the reader on a journey, touching pieces of my life and reflecting on the devotions that I have written. The critical paper is a rhetorical analysis of seminal authors who have written devotions and the way many have touched and shaped my life. The conclusion is that nothing takes the place of time spent with God and in His …

Traditional Vietnamese Music And Its Incorporation Into Christian Worship, Elijah Khang Chau

Masters Theses

The thesis addresses the concern of incorporating traditional Vietnamese instruments into Christian worship. Most worship done in Vietnamese churches in the US is primarily westernized, and it lacks cultural elements to reflect the Vietnamese culture. Another concern is that the younger generation does not know much about Vietnamese culture; this is an issue because many Vietnamese descents do not know which culture they belong to. The idea behind traditional Vietnamese instruments incorporated into Christian worship will encourage Vietnamese churches to use Vietnamese traditions to further God’s Kingdom so that the Vietnamese congregation can worship and glorify God in their native …

Healing Artists Through Art, Corey Aaron Cundiff

Masters Theses

Men die by suicide nearly four times more than women, with higher rates among artists. There has been an increase in the rate of suicide over the years, primarily linked to depression and mounting societal expectations imposed upon men. The prevalence of social media and the awareness that comes with indicates that the issue of suicide may never disappear unless action is taken. This paper examines the need for art therapy to counter depression among male artists. No longer do we need to rely strictly on medication and talk therapy to treat depression. Many art therapy techniques have proven quite …

Conscious Consumers: Understanding The Roles And Impacts Patrons Can Have To Make Ethically Minded Purchases That Affect Society, Mallory Sallstrom

Masters Theses

This thesis will examine the issue that patrons of large corporations are often unaware of how their patronage funds divisive corporate philanthropy resulting in an ethical dilemma for the patron. To better understand this issue, research was conducted through a series of research questions. After completing this research, a literature review was conducted in addition to case studies and visual analyses. Based upon the research, a visual solution was created to serve as a resource and tool to educate consumers about the philanthropic efforts of large corporations as it relates to their values and missions. The thesis visual deliverables include …

Extending Public Accessibility To The Mind: Designing Airports For People With Aphasia, Savannah Eloise Garzon

Masters Theses

Imagine traveling in an airport in another country. The language is entirely foreign, and all signs are written in text you cannot understand. You have ten minutes to make your connection. How do you find your gate? How do you ask questions? This hypothetical generation of panic is the reality for many travelers every day who suffer from aphasia. Aphasia is a language disorder often caused by stroke or other brain injury that makes it difficult to communicate, read, and process numbers, especially in stressful environments like an airport. More than two million people in America suffer from aphasia and …

Musical Style In Selected Easter Cantatas By John W. Peterson, Youn Song Han

Masters Theses

John W. Peterson is one of the most celebrated American Christian songwriters between 1950s and 1970. He is the best-known for church cantatas such as Christimas, Easter, General, and Choral collections. Peterson's life, music style, and success will be addressed. Next, four Easter cantatas of his cantatas will be analyzed and compared: No Greater Love, The Glory of Easter, Hallelujah for the Cross, and It Took a Miracle. Specifically, there are introduction, his biographical information, historical and musical background in 1950s and 1960s, introduction of four Easter cantatas, analysis of four Easter cantatas, that is, music styles of four Easter …

Strategic Morphology Interventions For Vocabulary Knowledge In Reading Comprehension, Danielle Marie Sharpe

Masters Theses

Many adolescent students have been shown to fall behind gradually as they reach

secondary grade levels. This has been researched as the effect of socioeconomic factors,

lack of immersive vocabulary backgrounds, and gaps in elementary years. Extensive

research has shown the benefits of morphology instruction in secondary students in

bridging vocabulary gaps, yet many schools have yet to provide them with the support to

comprehend difficult texts across content areas. This project explores the possible benefits

of offering adolescents the extra support and resources that can leverage reading

comprehension across content areas within secondary education. Through the use of

implementing …

Living In Untranslatability--Performance Art In China And Usa, Ziyun Ma

Masters Theses

This thesis embodies discontinuities in performance art and its non-equivalent Chinese term “行 为艺术” between language and cultural context into a migrating journey. A comparative analysis on the disciplinary history of performance art studies in the US and China laid a foundation in exploring the dynamics of marginality in two contexts. Extracting from the narrative mechanism and body view of Chinese performance art, I demonstrate how the philosophy of living (生) inspired many artistic creation, which also echoes my research journey. And from our mutual living experience, I pose the concept of constructive untranslatability that applies positionality and situated knowledge …

“Little Old Wales”: Expressions Of Nationalism, Language And Pride In Welsh Football, Abigail Mathieson

Masters Theses

Welsh football, through its use of material culture, language, and acknowledgements of history, has become a major force in representing Welsh national identities locally and globally. This thesis expands on Benedict Anderson’s idea of the “imagined community” through contemporary research from academic sources and from voices throughout the Welsh footballing community. It highlights the significance of the sport in national identity, especially within smaller nations such as Wales with histories of post-colonialism. Along with this, football shows the role cultural nationalism plays in the nation of Wales and in its independence movements.

A Comparative Study Of The Effects Of Lessons From Music Theory Websites On The Engagement Levels Of Fifth Grade Students, Casey Artis

Masters Theses

The purpose of this correlative research study is to determine if a significant difference exists between fifth grade students learning from musictheory.net and those who learn from 8notes.com. Student engagement and achievement will be measured after they have finished interacting with their assigned music website. The study will explore the relationship between music technology and student engagement and achievement in the music classroom. The results of the study will help music educators add to their list of tools for teaching music with technology and provide them with more data about technologically enhanced student achievement and engagement. It is important for …

Evaluation Of A Cue Associated With Alternative Reinforcement To Mitigate Resurgence, Hayley Brown

Masters Theses

Treatment relapse due to the extinction of a previously reinforced alternative behavior is known as resurgence. Understanding the conditions under which resurgence is mitigated may be important for improving the maintenance of the effects of interventions. One method that has been found to effectively mitigate resurgence is pairing a cue or stimulus with alternative reinforcement and then continuing to present that cue when alternative reinforcement is terminated. Animal studies have found that cues must be paired with alternative reinforcement and target extinction to be effective. However, this finding has not yet been replicated with humans. Demonstration of a similar effect …

Wake Up America: Conceptualizing The Social Determinants Of Sleep, Nicole Eve Bray

Masters Theses

This paper is an attempt to understand racial, ethnic and gender disparities in sleep as a sociological problem. Public health and sociological researchers have looked at the connection between sleep disparities among minorities and the impact it has on health. However, they haven’t explained and applied the social structural factors that cause these disparities, as well as address how stress can serve as a moderator. In my investigation, I found that sleep troubles differ across race, ethnicity and gender. These differences relate to the distinguishable life situations of women and minorities in American society, such as stressful life circumstances that …

The Effects Of Social Comparison On Immediate Mood And Reaction Time Performance, Jane K. Wolterink, Elizabeth A. Weizeorick, Meghan Fox

Masters Theses

Context: Being compared to others in social situations is commonplace, whether at work, school, or sport. For example, athletes typically receive feedback on performance from a coach in front of their teammates. Likewise, during lab experiences, students often receive feedback from their instructors in front of their peers. While feedback has been shown to affect mental health, mood, and self-confidence both positively and negatively, the effects of feedback given as a social comparison have not been studied. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess how both positive and negative social comparison affects individuals’ immediate mood and reaction time …

Truth From Fiction: The Apologetic Use Of Christian Allegorical Literature In The 21st Century, Terri Nicole Boutte

Masters Theses

Christian allegorical literature is a genre that explores apologetic claims in a unique and creative way. Although this genre has attracted many readers over the years, there is hesitation and reluctancy to accept Christian allegorical literature as a genre that should be used as an apologetic method. Namely, the didactic intent of this genre has caused some critics to question whether Christian allegorical literature promotes critical reading and thinking skills in a way that leads readers to make their own spiritual decisions. Some skeptics believe that sharing theistic truths that are disguised by fictional storylines is a creative way to …

The Clinical Experience Of Occupational Therapy And A Young Adult With Cerebral Palsy: A Case Report, Paige Flickinger, Allyssa Grant, Renee Olsen, Madielyn Knaggs, Jonathan Newby

Masters Theses

The purpose of this case report is to explore the clinical experience of an occupational therapist working with a young adult with Cerebral Palsy with non-cognitive disabilities in order to determine appropriate interventions for improved occupational performance and participation. Goals for this study, and for future research, include establishing resources for occupational therapists and occupational therapy interventions that improve the occupational performance, social participation and the occupational experience of young adults with Cerebral Palsy, without intellectual disabilities.