Digital Commons Network^™

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 …

Two Chinese Festivals, Peng (Pamela) Chen

Masters Theses

Two Chinese Festivals is a music piece written for a chamber-sized orchestra. The first movement Kite Festival is a traditional Chinese celebration in which people give thanks that the spring is coming. The second movement Lantern Festival is an event run on the fifteenth day of Chinese New Year. People make many varieties of Lanterns that represent different ancient Chinese tales. Then the lanterns are displayed on all the city streets.

The Avifauna Of Bawwab Al-Ghazal: A Zooarchaeological Analysis, Elissa A. Kinzelman

Masters Theses

In 1998 the Neolithic archaeological site of Bawwab al-Ghazal (ca. 11,500- 7,500 BP) was excavated by a team of researchers from the University of California, Riverside and Whitman College. Among the many artifacts recovered from the site, ranging from stone and shell beads to stone tools and related debitage, were an abundant sample of bird bones. Excavators shipped the sample, consisting of some 407 specimens, to the Anthropology Department of Western Michigan University for a faunal analysis.

This study seeks to illustrate the importance of bird remains in the archaeological record. The avifaunal analysis of Bawwab al-Ghazal began with identifying …

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 …

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 …

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.

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 …

Determine The Effect Of Pulp And Paper Properties Such As Basis Weight, Degree Of Refining On The Drying Proportions Of Both Hardwood And Softwood, Vidit Kumar

Masters Theses

Paper drying is a very important unit operation and a highly energy intensive operation in the paper industry. Various studies have been made to discuss the effect of various variables on the drying behavior of the paper. Extensive efforts have been made to reduce the energy requirement in this operation.

This study tries to find the effect of basis weight, refining level on the drying behavior of the paper of both hardwood and softwood. The basis weight, the degree of refining and type of wood affects significantly the drying rate, the drying time and the contact coefficient between the paper …

The Relationship Between Single-Disk Refining Energy, Strength Properties, And Freeness For Softwood, Hardwood, And Recycled Stock, Ken Marker

Masters Theses

Statistical and graphical analysis techniques were applied to disc refining operations in order to understand the relationship between strength and drainage properties for a given stock. Two refining variables of refining energy and revolutionary velocity were varied during the experiment. The calculated variable of refining intensity was used to represent these refining variables. The relationship between the refining energy, strength, and drainage properties for northern softwood, northern hardwood, and printing grade recycled stock was explored. Experimental pulp was obtained on a Beloit Jones Single-Disc refiner, and a handsheet study was used to develop the relationship with strength properties. Several empirical …

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 …

Development Of Kohonen Neural Network Application As A Pattern Recognition System For An Electronic Nose, Lori Lynn Evesque

Masters Theses

Electronic noses are used to identify and characterize unknown odors in industry. Chemometrics and neural network algorithms are used as pattern recognition systems for these devices. Experimentation with Kohonen clustering as the pattern recognition system for electronic noses was not noted prior to 1997. [BEG] This thesis investigated the use of a Kohonen neural network algorithm as a clustering algorithm for electronic nose data using the chemometrics algorithms built into the electronic nose as a performance standard. A secondary aim was to improve the clustering and identification capabilities of the Kohonen network.

The unsupervised Kohonen network was not able to …

Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Of Gull Lake Water Quality Summer Of 1998, Jill Downing

Masters Theses

Suspended sediments derived from surface runoff can cause deterioration in aquatic ecosystems by reducing sunlight penetrating through suspended solids to reach subsurface biological organisms. It can also have an adverse effect on recreational, agricultural, and industrial uses. Monitoring the spatial distribution of suspended sediments is important in resource management of surface waters. Field spectrometry has been applied successfully toward establishing relationships between spectral response and water quality parameters including suspended sediment concentrations. The objective of this research was to develop possible correlations between hyperspectrum and water quality attributes of depth, turbidity, and nutrients of an inland freshwater lake in southwest …

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 …

A Geochemical Survey Of The Natural Waters Of Belize, Central America, Anthony D. Marfia

Masters Theses

A geochemical survey of the natural waters in Belize, Central America was carried out to compliment routine water quality analysis and to identify processes affecting water quality. The objective of this research was to provide a geochemical assessment of natural waters throughout Belize by examining select major ions (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺ , SO₄^2-), and stable isotopes of carbon (¹³C), oxygen (¹⁸O) and hydrogen (²H).

The dominant geology relevant to this investigation comprises a varied landscape of carbonates and elastic sediments in a subtropical rainforest/savannah climate. Stable oxygen and hydrogen …

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 …

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 …

Reconfigurable Vibration Table (Rvt), Muhammad Ali

Masters Theses

A system was designed and manufactured to determine the modal, harmonic and transient behaviors of vibrating masses. The initial design was optimized by design for manufacture and assembly, and dynamic behaviors of the system were verified with finite element analysis. Small rods were used to reconfigure the table from one degree of freedom to two degrees of freedom and vice versa to provide data comparison for forced and free responses. Aluminum base plates containing oblong boles were used to allow the table to work with the two different types of existing vibration test systems.

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 …

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 …

Development Of A Redesign Plan For Moore Hall Using Architectural Principles Of Green Building And Sustainable Design, Alkhaziam Saad

Masters Theses

An existing in-use office and classroom building on Western Michigan University's main campus was chosen for a redesign project which incorporated study of architectural principles of green building and sustainable design. The study emphasized the central importance of buildings themselves in modem life, their effects on building users and their work, their effects on user relationships with one another and the surrounding environment, and the need to enhance the building's positive, natural, and life-supporting relationship with the total environment including the users.

The redesign problem statement reflected issues and ideas from recent architectural and building construction literature, which emphasized green …

The Nonprofit Sector In Saudi Arabia: A Descriptive Study, Abdulrahman Al-Othaimeen

Masters Theses

As Saudi Arabia's economic and social environments have become more complex, the role of the nonprofit sector has grown in importance. At the same time, the sector faces the challenges of technology changes, shifting demographics, global influences, and increasing connectedness to the private and government sectors. In past decades, charitable services depended on individuals. It has, however, moved from individual services to charitable organizations. This study describes the work of hundreds of private and community organizations and agencies that practice the charitable work. They provide similar service and programs: human service, childcare, education, health care, and consulting. Philanthropic agencies influence …

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 …

Particle Size Analysis Of Commercial Printing Inks And Their Press Stability And Printability, Andrea Frimova

Masters Theses

The particle size of commercially produced printing inks available for each of the printing processes, such as letterpress, lithography, flexography, rotogravure and screen-printing was completed. The study of their stability on the press, as well as the examination of the effect of particle size on printability and color balance was investigated. This was demonstrated on several gravure and flexo printing trials lasting for several hours.

Decrease of rotogravure inks particle size was most obvious in black, while the decrease of particle size in all other colors was rather similar. Differences in color, print density, and specular gloss measured on printed …

Influence Of Infrared Absorbing Anions On Paper Coating Structure, Sachitanand Karnakote

Masters Theses

Infrared units are widely used in paper coating drying to initiate evaporation and quickly reach solids immobilization point. Thermal efficiency of IR units can be improved by increasing absorption of coating color. Borate compounds have shown good IR absorption at wavelengths typical to commercial IR units.

The objective of this research was to evaluate the compatibility of selected borate-containing compounds with the primary components of the paper coatings like clays, carbonates, and some binders.

Coatings were prepared at 60% solids and viscosity and pH were adjusted to 900-1200 cp and 8.5-9.5 respectively. Dynamic stress and frequency sweeps were carried out …

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 …

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 …

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 …

Assessing The Acceptance Of The New Environmental Paradigm In Kalamazoo County, Michigan, Jaclyn Rose Burke

Masters Theses

Since the first Earth Day in 1970, there has been an expanding popular movement to protect the environment and a growing consciousness that humans are an integral part of nature. The New Environmental Paradigm (NEP) is a worldview that emphasizes the relationship that exists between humans and the environment. The purpose of this Master's Thesis is to assess Kalamazoo County, Michigan residents' attitudes on the environment based on their acceptance of the NEP. The acceptance of the NEP by Kalamazoo County residents was evaluated by residents' responses on a survey developed to measure their environmental attitudes. Kalamazoo County was found …

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 …

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 …