Digital Commons Network^™

Dynamic Discounted Satisficing Based Driver Decision Prediction In Sequential Taxi Requests, Sree Pooja Akula

Masters Theses

"Ridesharing platforms rely on connecting available taxi drivers to potential passengers to maximize their revenue. However, predicting the stopping decision made by every driver, i.e., the final task performed during a given day, is crucial to achieving this goal. Unfortunately, little research has been done on predicting drivers’ stopping decisions, especially when they deviate from expected utility maximization behavior. This research proposes a Dynamic Discounted Satisficing (DDS) heuristic to model and learn the task at which human agents will stop working for that day, assuming that the human agents are taking sequential decisions based on their preference order. We apply …

Selecting Consolidation Procedures For Making Concrete Specimens, Paige Marie Toebben

Masters Theses

"The goal of this research was to reevaluate ASTM C31 Standard Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field, as well as deepen our understanding of the relationship between the consolidation process, concrete composition, and workability. An improved understanding of this area will help to reduce variability in concrete quality. The project involved evaluating the effect of different consolidation methods on concrete specimens with changing levels of workability. To do this, concrete cylinders were created with varying viscosities by adjusting the water-to-cement ratio (w/c) and water-reducing agent. More cylinders were created with varying paste volumes while keeping …

Area Average Surface Transfer Coefficient In Unit Cell Geometries, Benjamin Gabriel Mackey

Masters Theses

"Honeycombs, metal foams, and lattice structures all provide a way to increase heat transfer due to better fluid mixing and larger surface area. Specifically, lattice structures can be a great way to provide heat transfer enhancement due to the ability to customize and optimize the unit cell geometry. In this research, a novel yet simple unit cell geometry is chosen for study. Four different configurations are tested in a lower Reynolds number range, 300–1800: single unit cell, two-unit cells in series, three-unit cells in series, and a 3x3 unit cell array. The Sherwood number of each configuration is found by …

Assessing A Byproduct Of The Cbd Ethanol Extraction Process For Potential As A Wood Finishing Product, Avani M. Flanagan

Masters Theses

Developments in regulations concerning the use of CBD products as therapeutic remedies have allowed the global cannabidiol (CBD) market to take off within the past five years. Despite producers of CBD oil wanting to optimize their methods and increase product yields, several waste streams still exist. During the winterization phase of the ethanol extraction process, CBD oil is cooled and filtered so the fats, waxes, and lipids from the Cannabis sativa plant can coagulate and be removed, creating a purer oil with higher potency but contributing to the 58% (crude weight) total loss that occurs throughout the process. The removed …

The Role Of Time Perspective In The College Major Selection Process, Anders C. Voss

Masters Theses

This phenomenological study examined the experiences of formerly undeclared college sophomores as they navigated major selection and how their time perspective influenced their decision-making process. This study applied time perspective theory to the issue of major selection for college students, an undertaking that offers a new perspective on the professional practices of academic advising and career services on college campuses. This study utilized semi-structured interviews of four female-identifying formerly undeclared students. Participant responses revealed that negative future time attitudes and a lack of future orientation can both contribute to behaviors that defer career decision-making. In contrast, professional staff and faculty …

Predictors Of Attitudes About Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asd), Claire Sullivan

Masters Theses

Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are far less likely to enroll in secondary education than neurotypical students and students with disabilities (White et al., 2016). There is little research on the factors contributing to the reluctance of young adults on the autism spectrum to seek higher education. This study aims to answer two research questions. The first research question aims to determine if there is a predominance of negative attitudes towards ASD amongst present undergraduate college students. The second research question explores whether this could be a determining factor in a college determination for students with ASD. This current …

Tropospheric Correction For Insar Using Machine Learning, Ngo Hi Kenny Yue

Masters Theses

"Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) is a popular technique for studying Earth's surface deformation caused by phenomena like earthquakes and subsidence. However, its accuracy is limited by tropospheric delays caused by water vapor in the atmosphere. This limitation can be overcome by using methods that correct for tropospheric noise, such as statistical, empirical, and predictive approaches. This study explores the potential of using machine learning algorithms to predict the zenith total delay caused by tropospheric effects in InSAR measurements. The study employs two different machine learning algorithms, random forest and neural networks, to learn the relationship between numerical weather prediction …

Suppressing Aluminum/Silica Exchange Reaction Between High Aluminum Steel And Mold Flux During Continuous Casting Process, Kuanysh Nurbekuly Yermukhanbetov

Masters Theses

"Mold flux plays one of the critical roles in continuous casting of steel. It performs five primary functions: thermal and chemical insulation, lubrication between the steel strand and mold, absorption of inclusions, and promotion of even heat flux. The aluminum/silica exchange reaction occurring between steel and mold flux during the continuous casting process poses significant challenges in the steel industry. This reaction can lead to various defects in the cast product and adversely affect its surface quality, as well as downstream processing.

In this work, effectiveness of two approaches, namely slag dopant additions and electrochemical techniques, in suppressing the exchange …

Scalable And Continuous Fabrication Of Dendrimer Based Gene And Protein Delivery Systems, Joseph Johnston

Masters Theses

"Gene and protein therapeutics play critical roles in the drug market and represent the future of biopharmaceuticals. Polymeric nanoparticle-based gene/protein delivery systems are promising owing to their ability to protect the cargo from degradation, improving intracellular delivery and transfection efficiency as well as abundant sources and flexibility to be modified. Yet the successful industrialized production and clinical application of polymeric nanoparticle-based delivery systems have long been limited by unsatisfied delivery efficiency and the lack of reproducible and scalable methods for the preparation of uniform nanoparticles with good batch to batch consistency. To address the unsatisfied efficacy and difficulty in scale-up …

Development And Testing Of A Hyperbaric Aerodynamic Levitator For Containerless Materials Research, Sydney Elizabeth Boland

Masters Theses

"This research focused on the development and testing of a hyperbaric aerodynamic levitator for container less materials research of specimens at temperatures greater than 2000°C and pressures up to 10.3 MPa (1500 psi). The effect of specimen size, specimen density, pressure, and flow rate on the levitation behavior was studied. Lightweight specimens demonstrated two stable levitation regimes that were speculated to be associated with a change in the turbulent wake structure. The hyperbaric aerodynamic levitator was also used to determine the effect of pressure on the heat transfer by studying the melting behavior of a levitated 3.0 mm diameter alumina …

Tailoring A System Engineering And Management Plan For A University Satellite Team, Jacob D. Anderson

Masters Theses

"A Systems Engineering and Management Plan (SEMP) helps enable a successful engineering project or team. All university teams working on satellite development encounter similar obstacles that are not commonly seen in industry. As a result, university teams must determine new approaches to solve these unique and difficult problems. A SEMP can mitigate risks, solve problems, and provide streamlined solutions. A modified SEMP is proposed along with guidance for implementing it into a new team and an existing team.

The adopted SEMP provides a road map for the technical execution and program management of a university team. The SEMP should be …

Computer Vision In Adverse Conditions: Small Objects, Low-Resoltuion Images, And Edge Deployment, Raja Sunkara

Masters Theses

"Computer vision based on deep learning is an essential field that plays a significant role in object detection, image classification, semantic segmentation, instance segmentation, and other applications. However, these models face significant challenges in adverse conditions, such as small objects, low-resolution images, and edge deployment. These challenges limit the accuracy and efficiency of computer vision algorithms, making it difficult to obtain reliable results.

The primary objective of this thesis is to assess the performance of deep learning- based computer vision models in challenging conditions and provide viable solutions to overcome the obstacles. The study will specifically address three key challenges, …

Static I-V Curve And Aging Test For Pim Characterization In Metallic Contacts, Kalkidan Anjajo

Masters Theses

"Spring clips and fabric-over-foams (FOFs) are widely used in mobile devices for electrical connection purposes. However, the imperfect metallic connections tend to induce passive intermodulation (PIM), resulting in a receiver sensitivity degradation, known as RF desensitization. Due to the complexity of the PIM characterization, there is not yet a way to evaluate PIM performance using a simple setup for environments like factories. In this study, a current-voltage (I-V) behavior-based PIM evaluation method is proposed and validated with various metallic contacts and contact forces. The test results demonstrated the feasibility of the PIM performance evaluation based on the measured static I-V …

The Importance Of Art In Cross Discipline Education, Shaye E. Beeman

Masters Theses

For years, art has been pushed under the rug. Especially in education, art is seen as less advantageous than other courses such as math, English, and science. This thesis explores the advantages of utilizing art in cross-discipline classrooms to help students learn and develop skills that will improve their physical, mental, and spiritual health. This thesis will bring into account other sources of information and data including research, case studies, and visual analyses to show: How will art improve the physical health of students? How does art increase the mental health of students? How does art improve the spiritual health …

Hey Girl, Feel My Thesis. Know What It's Made Of? Research Material., Mya Lynn Pritts

Masters Theses

As Generation Z becomes the newest generation to enter adulthood, it is valuable to understand their thought processes and communication patterns. Individuals of Generation Z are known to be digital natives, as they were born into a world of technology with the internet at their fingertips. Understanding Generation Z's use of memes is an area where little research has been done so far. The purpose of this study was to determine how Generation Z interprets and communicates with memes on the internet and social media platforms. Unlike previous research, this study analyzed the participants' perceptions, which further contributes to an …

The Effect Of Video Recording On Self-Assessment Of High School Vocal Music Students, Julia Christine Sterba

Masters Theses

This research project is designed to examine the effects that video recording and evaluation have on the high school choral music students' skill development of tone, dynamics, rhythm, and pitch and provide information about self-assessment as a directional learning tool for singers to increase student achievement through self-regulated learning. Research indicates the power of self-assessment as an evaluation in the classroom. It has provided educators with tools to implement effective self-assessment practices that promote performance and self-efficacy. This research project will define self-assessment, address what skills are being assessed, and specify the methods of assessment that will be implemented. Models …

Agatha Christie: Poisons And Prose, A Critical And Creative Consideration, Laurie Kay Wolf

Masters Theses

This Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing thesis submission focuses on the literary approach and research processes of Agatha Christie. It includes an impetus and vision for the thesis project, a scientific inquiry into a sampling of the poisons Ms. Christie incorporated as murder weapons, and an analysis of texts from a variety of her published works. The creative manuscript portion incorporates the detective genre, the poison research, and this student’s interpretation of Ms. Christie’s writing style and distinction.

The Need And Value Of Adding A Gifted Music Curriculum To Education Using Music Technology, Haven K. Clippinger

Masters Theses

Research in music education has increased drastically since its emergence in the 20th century. Philosophers developed detailed music education philosophies, and music education changed in American education. In addition, the 20th century also brought an increased awareness of gifted students in the school system. Musical talent has been considered a gifted quality, yet there appears to be minimal research on gifted students in music classes. Initial research was conducted to examine literature on gifted music. This research served to provide a greater link between music and gifted education by utilizing a music technology curriculum for gifted music students. This project …

Post-Covid-19 Teaching With Technology Support In Higher Education, Landon Nalepinski

Masters Theses

Using a mixed methods approach, this case study focuses on how technological support in higher education can encourage educators to continue using and developing their teaching with technology practices post-COVID-19. Data and information were gathered via an anonymous survey from faculty members at Grand Valley State University to gain a better understanding of what support is being provided to them and how we can expand on that in the future.

The Design And Development Of A Miniature Gridded Ecr Ion Thruster, Nicholas Nuzzo

Masters Theses

Plasma propulsion, a specific subset of electric propulsion (EP), is a class of space propulsion that produces plasma by excitation of a propellant at or above its ionization energy. This ionized propellant is then accelerated by an externally applied field (magnetic and/or electric) and produces thrust. There is an increasing need for miniaturization in spacecraft technology and the use of plasma EP devices in space propulsion. These systems provide an advantage over traditional chemical propulsion solutions which are less efficient and have more mass. Miniaturization of EP devices allows missions to have more space and mass available for their payloads …

“This Isn't Working For Me. Can We Do It A Different Way?" The Lived Experiences Of Geoscience Students With Learning Disabilities, Nina Morris

Masters Theses

The purpose of this exploratory qualitative study is to better understand the lived experiences of geoscience students with learning disabilities in their geoscience classes. Students with learning disabilities bring a unique perspective while also facing unique challenges in post-secondary education. In the literature, there is limited information on what support and teaching strategies are beneficial to this population. Undergraduate and graduate geoscience students who identify as having a learning disability from colleges and universities in the United States were recruited. Six students consented to participate in the study, and each completed a semi-structured interview. Semi-structured interviews were designed to prompt …

Implementation Of The Plan For Every Part (Pfep) Tool And Additional Methodologies For Operational Improvement., Bernardo Luis Borges Pedroso

Masters Theses

The work focused on the inventory management of Dimplex Thermal Solutions, which had a profoundly overstocked warehouse and was suffering from significant operating expenses, due to the absence of a grounded ordering policy and the need to rent external storage space, respectively.

The main objective of the thesis was to solve the primarily mentioned problems, by constructing a Plan For Every Part (PFEP) tool, followed by the application of an inventory policy and the proposal of a redesigned warehouse layout, to compute ideal stock values and calculate the footprint requirements for Dimplex’s updated inventory levels, respectively. The execution step concerned …

Measurement Of Low-Speed Impinging Jet Structure Using Temperature Sensitive Paint, Arthur Dean Woodworth

Masters Theses

Temperature sensitive paint (TSP) is used to analyze surface flow structures driven by a jet impinging on a heated steel sheet. Temperature and Nusselt number images are calculated from CCD images of the TSP surface. TSP calibration is discussed. Skin friction data is obtained from the temperature images.

Data is collected for metal and 3D-printed plastic nozzles of varying shape and size at one or two jet airspeeds depending on the nozzle. For the circular nozzles, data is collected for four Reynolds numbers at impinging angles of 90, 70, and 50 degrees. For the elliptical nozzles and the star-shaped nozzle, …

Dress The Mess: An Art Therapy Awareness Social Media Marketing Campaign For Young Adults Dealing With Trauma, Victoria Leigh Alba

Masters Theses

This research analyzes the effects of art therapy on young adults between the ages of 18-29 dealing with emotional trauma. The research includes an in-depth exploration of various types of art therapy: visual art, dance, music, photography, and visual journaling. Furthermore, the study explores the lack of awareness of art therapy and how, through a social media awareness campaign, the narrative can be advanced to promote art therapy awareness. Finally, this paper aims to provide insight and practical strategies through a social marketing guerilla campaign, “Dress the Mess,” by incorporating photography, graphic design, and the social media platform Instagram to …

Wrongfully Accused: Germany And The Origins Of World War I, Jauschua Curtis Stout

Masters Theses

By examining the events that led to the outbreak of the First World War, one can determine whether any one nation was responsible for starting the war or failed to exercise its ability to prevent it. The origins of The First World War have seen no shortage of attention from historians in the hundred-plus years since its conclusion. Nevertheless, none have successfully presented a case that explains how what should have been a relatively minor diplomatic crisis transformed into the First World War. Instead, the traditional stance of blaming Germany for the war has been the de facto argument since …

Effective Environmental Education: The Way To A Greener, Brighter Future, Amber Leanne Bailey

Masters Theses

Green spaces provide many benefits to local communities, including improved mental and physical health and stronger, safer communities. They also provide sustainable ecosystems for wildlife. These benefits provide a better quality of life for the people in the community. However, some communities cannot experience these benefits due to a common issue among green spaces: degradation in the forms of littering and vandalism. Despite efforts in environmental education, this problem persists. The aim of this project is to contribute to keeping green spaces greener. To study potential solutions for the continued degradation, an analysis of relevant literature is conducted on the …

The Advantage Of An Iterative Writing Process For Novels And Short Stories, Annie Jackson

Masters Theses

Many writers struggle with completing a novel when they follow the traditional process of working through plot, character and world building problems in prewriting activities followed by sitting and drafting the story in a linear process scene by scene and chapter by chapter. This thesis proposes an alternate iterative approach. Iterative drafting creates multiple smaller versions of the full story that build to a first draft. By moving several problem solving activities into the draft itself writers can find increased opportunity for quick analysis, low effort corrections and a more efficient drafting method. This thesis lays out the description and …

Study Of Urethane Double-Coated Nylon Membranes For Fluid-Storage Applications, Micah Austin Howell

Masters Theses

Polymer-coated fabrics are used for many fuel and water storage applications, such as in U.S. military field operations. Urethane-double-coated nylon (UDCN) is one such material used in collapsible fluid storage tanks. Research into the mechanical properties of UDCN membranes under different environmental conditions is necessary for substantiating its current operations as well as developing new technologies. Novel modular, closed-loop and scalable pumped-storage hydropower (PSH) systems are one technology that could use UDCN membrane tanks in order to mitigate large costs, risks, environmental impacts, and time-for deployment associated with PSH system construction due to their modular, closed-loop technology. This study focuses …

Making Music Theory Fun, Jordan E. Montana Richards

Masters Theses

This curriculum project will attempt to demonstrate how having fun can facilitate learning music theory. Furthermore, in this project, I also propose that using games, songs, mnemonic devices, and other types of wordplay and edutainment (the marriage of education and entertainment) can combat summer learning loss and other learning gaps or school breaks, in addition to inspiring the motivation, interest, and desire within students to learn. My curriculum project will also claim that by having fun and enjoying their learning, students will be more likely to improve and develop their musicianship skills. Within this curriculum project, I will attempt to …

How The Power Of Film Inspires Christianity, Stephanie Mullins Sellers

Masters Theses

Ruthie’s Game is a screenplay designed to repeat supernatural episodic events, which, according to research, may act as foundations for faith systems because watching films is a prayerful act, and the more it is repeated the longer the brain stores the memory. The thesis explores how Christian messages are received through film with a brief on the science behind the brain’s activities and how it reflexes film’s episodic events for later use. Testimonies, interviews, and personal comments show an audience seeking secular films with intellectual storyline and with no preaching to the choir. Ruthie’s Game shares Christian messages in an …