Digital Commons Network^™

Effective Communication Strategy During Crisis: A Case Of The 2010 Toyota Recall Crisis, Masud Mensah

Masters Theses

Crisis communication is an integral part of public relations and organizational management at large involving the timely and strategic sharing of information during a crisis or emergency. Its primary purpose is to ensure that organizations effectively manage and minimize the negative impact of the crisis on their operations and stakeholders, which invariably helps to maintain trust, credibility and restore their reputation. Based on an interpretivist standpoint, the study utilizes qualitative approaches and takes the form of a case study. It offers a comprehensive account of the crisis, including key occurrences, media representation, and public responses, showcasing its international impact via …

Student Perceptions Of Inclusive And Culturally Responsive Teaching In The Elementary Classroom, Emma Larson

Masters Theses

The purpose of this research is to explore student perspectives, as it relates to inclusive and culturally responsive teaching practices. In order to uplift student voices in the elementary classroom, observations and interviews were conducted to collect data on student perceptions. This study found that students believe the teacher’s job is to help everyone, students want a sense of belonging, and students love when their teacher celebrates them. As this research followed students in a bilingual kindergarten classroom, further research is needed in order to grasp a deeper understanding of students, their view, and perception of inclusive and culturally responsive …

Influence Of Attack Performance On The Ovc Volleyball Regular Seasons 2022 & 2023, Ignacio Valdemoros

Masters Theses

Understanding the outcome of volleyball games is necessary for coaches before, after, and during a season. There are several ways to gain this understanding, but statistical analysis is fundamental to see the minimum patterns of behavior that influence wins and losses in Volleyball. Furthermore, this analysis helps identify the optimal approach to achieving a goal and determining the most effective alternative to success. Scoring points in Volleyball involves three key skills: serving, blocking, and attacking. Among these skills, attacking plays the most relevant role in determining the outcome of a match. The position on the court (e.g. Outside Hitter, Middle …

Centering Linguistic Justice In The First Year Writing Classroom: An Argument For The Incorporation Of Code-Meshing And Narrative In Academic Writing, Traci Salazar

Masters Theses

The author addresses several questions across three chapters in relation to linguistic identity and standard language ideology in academic writing, particularly as it pertains to the First Year Writing classroom. Firstly, what is standard language ideology, and what are the detriments of its effects on students in the writing classroom? This answer is considered with an emphasis on the implications for students whose home languages are not in close proximity to Standard English (SE) and boils down to a homogenous language that is deemed ideal and is imposed upon others by dominant institutions, such as academic institutions. Within a literature …

Validation Of Athlet With Purdue University Multi-Dimensional Integral Test Assembly (Puma) Test, Emin Fatih Ozdem

Masters Theses

"Following the Three Mile Island Unit 2 (TMI-2) disaster, the development of a diagnostic system for emergency situations in a nuclear power plant was identified as an essential research area to strengthen the safety of nuclear power plants. A real-time estimation system of vital safety parameters on the main side of a PWR (Pressurized Water Reactor) facility was investigated since precise post-event scenario estimations are thought to be a crucial component of the diagnostic system. The alarm system of the plant can detect an SB-LOCA (Small Break Loss-Of-Coolant-Accident), but there were a couple of potential long-term transient occurrences. The accident …

The Deep Bsde Method, Daniel Kovach

Masters Theses

"The curse of dimensionality is the non-linear growth in computing time as the dimension of a problem increases. Using the Deep Backwards Stochastic Differential Equation (Deep BSDE) method developed in [HJE18], I approximate the solution at an initial time to a one-dimensional diffusion equation. Although we only approximate a one-dimensional equation, this method extends well to higher dimensions because it overcomes the curse of dimensionality by evaluating the given partial differential equation along "random characteristics''. In addition to the implementation, I also present most of the mathematical theory needed to understand this method"-- Abstract, p. iii

Open-Ended Hollow Coaxial Cable Resonance Sensing Via Permittivity Fluctuations For Applications To Exhaled Breath Health Monitoring, Peter Henry Holtmann

Masters Theses

"We report a pre-diagnostics breath analyzer based on the open-ended hollow coaxial cable resonator (OE-HCCR) to achieve real-time differentiation of healthy and compromised lung function through electromagnetic analysis of exhaled breath matter. A two-phase amplification scheme of electromagnetic signatures metered via the S11 phase curve offers high sensitivity to permittivity fluctuations in exposed airflow. The mathematical model of the breath analyzer is explained, followed by experimental validation of numerical findings from previous work. The collection of breath transient signals is performed through monitoring the reflected power magnitude and phase of the scattering parameter (S11) at the resonance frequency. Material fluctuations …

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 …

Radiofrequency Interference Detection Using Lstmand Statistical Analysis Discriminator, Luke Smith

Masters Theses

"Wireless devices are becoming increasingly pervasive across all aspects of society. Examples of such devices include radios, routers, mobile phones, tablets, and more. As the number of radio frequency (RF) devices continues to rise, so does the amount of interference and noise increase. This is why an efficient approach to interference detection is explored. Most research within this area has been done strictly within the frequency domain as viewing a signal within this domain provides many insights into what makes the signal. This has, however, led to the time domain being underutilized for this area of research.

To explore the …

Development Of A Particulate Matter Sensor Network For Air Quality Monitoring In Indoor Settings And In Mines, Abdulrahman Bani

Masters Theses

"The importance of indoor air quality (IAQ), especially concerning particulate matter (PM), has become increasingly recognized due to its substantial impact on public health. Individuals spend a significant portion of their time indoors, where PM concentrations can exceed that of outdoors, leading to potential adverse health effects ranging from immediate irritation to long-term respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The dynamic nature of indoor environments, combined with the diversity of PM sources, presents considerable challenges for effective IAQ monitoring and management. Traditional approaches to IAQ assessment often fall short, lacking the granularity and immediacy required to address these challenges adequately.

This abstract …

The Graduation Walk: Pareto Optimization Of Degree Paths, Arianna Gail Sy Chaves

Masters Theses

"A student’s academic history, course availability at their institution, and the overall degree of difficulty of the schedule for each semester are all critical factors in their academic success and experience. This thesis proposes an advanced recommendation algorithm that considers these real and conflicting factors that are involved in identifying a prudent degree path - a semester-by-semester course schedule to graduation - for each student. The original contribution of this work is the use of weighted-sum multi-objective constraint programming to minimize an increased number of optimization criteria and identify Pareto-optimal degree paths to be recommended to the student. The conflicting …

Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis Of Thermal-Hydraulic Phenomena In Nuclear Reactor Systems, Mehedi Hasan Tusar

Masters Theses

"A computational analysis of thermal-hydraulic processes in nuclear reactor systems is performed, leveraging Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to advance the design and ensure the safety of nuclear reactors. Divided into two primary sections, the initial part examines thermal-hydraulic behavior in the Replacement Research Reactor (RRR) operating at 20 megawatts and evaluates potential enhancements for the Missouri University of Science and Technology Reactor (MSTR) to operate at an increased capacity of 2 megawatts from the existing 0.2 megawatts. Detailed simulations reveal insights into flow characteristics, temperature distributions, and pressure drops, highlighting the effective use of realistic and porous media modeling techniques …

Iterative Power Flow Control Architecture For Dc-Ac-Ac Triple Active Bridge Converters: Design, Simulation, And Hardware Testing, Jonathan Henri Saelens

Masters Theses

Driven by widespread electrification and escalating energy demands, efficient and cost-effective converter systems are necessary to maintain and improve our nation's electrical grid. Facilitating this necessity are power electronic converters in applications such as smart grids, renewable energy integration, and electric vehicles. Guided by the demand for improved converter topologies and conversion efficiency, much research has been conducted on varying designs, development, and control implementations. One such topology gaining significant research attention is the triple active bridge (TAB) converter. The TAB is a three-port power converter enabling both bidirectional power flow on each port and galvanic isolation for safety and …

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 …

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 …

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 …

American Nationalistic Music: Dvorak's Influence, Matthew D. Shinsky

Masters Theses

This study is conducted to determine the influence Antonin Dvořák had on the creation of American musical nationalism. Prior literature on the topic coupled with analysis of the musical scores are used to gain understanding of the musical elements that can be seen as a precursor to a uniquely American sound. To illustrate this further, Czech nationalistic pieces by Dvořák and Smetana are used to show a distinct difference in style utilized by Dvořák in his pieces written during his time in America. Dvořák’s use of American folk music, African American spirituals, and Native American music are fused together in …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

Development Of S.T.E.A.M. Daises In Formal And Informal Environments For Educating Primary I Learners, Frances Neville

Masters Theses

The federal government has made education a competition among ourselves. Learning is not a rivalry to be imposed on our physical and cognitive development as humans. Escalating beliefs recognize education is more encompassing than CCSS, assessments and the grade level time frames in which standards are to be taught. On the precipice of anti-intellect, low expectations, and what has been termed “The Dumbing of America” an investigation into what it would take to close the achievement gap and increase student learning is overdue.

The goal for my Michigan based project, S.T.E.A.M. Daises, was to develop a program focusing on the …

Process Improvement Of Cu(Ii)-Trymethylamine-Based Active Clay Measurement Test And Total Clay Measurement Test, Christopher Michael Remily

Masters Theses

Foundry work requires a mold made of a mixture of sand, “active clay” to absorb gas, and binders to combine the two and hold the molds shape. When the metal is melted to be poured into the mold, the solubility dramatically increases, causing gas to be temporarily dissolved in the metal. This gas causes small surface pits to form once the metal cools, causing part failure. This causes the need to absorb the gas. Since the clay is used in the process, there needs to be a way to determine how much remains active, which is done with a dye …

Advancing Winter Weather Adas: Tire Track Identification And Road Snow Coverage Estimation Using Deep Learning And Sensor Integration, Parth Kadav

Masters Theses

No abstract provided.

Trends Of Autumn Phenology In Response To Environmental And Meteorological Variables, Meagan Renee Maguire

Masters Theses

Previous studies have identified that changes in plant phenology are most likely induced by climate variability. One such change is the end of season (EOS) for deciduous forests in the United States. In essence, the EOS represents the end of plant productivity for a given year; the phase in which plant dormancy is reached. However, our wealth of knowledge on plant phenology largely overlooks the phases that occur in autumn, especially the EOS, with many previous studies focusing on spring phenology. This study uses remote sensing MODIS aerial imagery data and historical meteorological data to analyze any relationships that may …

Nonlinear Finite Element Model For Functionally Graded Porous Circular/Annular Micro-Plates Under Thermal And Mechanical Load, Enrique Nava Munoz

Masters Theses

A nonlinear finite element model for micro circular/annular plates under thermal and mechanical loading is developed using a third order shear deformation theory. In the kinematic assumptions, the change of plate thickness is allowed and no transverse shear strains are considered on the top and bottom surfaces. A power-law distribution is utilized to account for variations of two constituents through the thickness of the plate. Three different types of porosity distributions are considered. The strain gradient effect in micro scale structures is considered using the modified couple stress theory. The dynamic version of the principle of virtual displacements is used …