Digital Commons Network^™

A Dual-Core Risc-V Processor With A Two-Level Programmable Cache Emulation And Test System, Marcus Figorito

Theses

The Compiler Lease of Cache Memory (CLAM) project has previously explored the effects of lease-based replacement policies for benchmarks (programs) run on single-core with single-level and single-core with two-level cache architectural config- urations. This work builds and expands on this prior work by continuing the same line of inquiry for a dual-core with two-level cache architectural configuration. The lease-based replacement policies studied are: Compiler Assigned Reference Leasing (CARL), Phased Reference Leasing (PRL), Scope Hooked Eviction Leasing (SHEL), and Cross-Scope Hooked Eviction Leasing (C-SHEL). These are compared to the per- formance of the traditional Pseudo Least Recently Used (PLRU) replacement policy. …

Physical Properties Of Bulk Carbon Nanotube Conductors Impacting Radio Frequency Waveguide Measurements, Samuel J. Boyd

Theses

Recent developments in radio frequency (RF) electronics motivate the interest in developing multi-functional materials which have effective electrical properties with increasing frequency that minimize the conventional skin effect. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are emerging as a candidate material due to high direct current (DC) electrical conductivity, flexure tolerance, corrosion resistance, and low density. The DC electrical conductivity of CNT networks is affected by the high resistance junctions between individual or bundled CNTs. Strategies to modify the properties of these junctions have included chemical doping, nano-metal deposition, and physical densification. Alternating current (AC) conductivity measurements of bulk CNT materials to date have …

Virtual Vortex, Yiling Jiang

Theses

This project examines the pervasive negative impacts of social media through the lens of 3D abstract motion in Virtual Vortex. While social media offers unparalleled convenience and connectivity, it also brings significant, often hidden, adverse effects on psychosocial health, personal privacy, and relationships. These consequences, although intangible, have profound implications that necessitate deeper scrutiny. In Virtual Vortex, I translate these abstract issues into concrete visuals, using 3D animation to make the invisible visible. By employing Cinema 4D (C4D) dynamics and mograph, I create a narrative where a yellow ball represents individuals, and various forms of social media icons symbolize the …

Bhasha: An Interactive Experience Learning Indian Languages, Charmy Patel

Theses

BHASHA is an interactive online platform that focuses on the linguistic diversity of India, specifically targeting languages from the Nagari (Hindi, Gujarati, Bengali) and Dravidian (Tamil) families. The name "BHASHA," meaning "language" in many Indian dialects, reflects the platform's inclusive approach to language learning. BHASHA addresses the challenge of learning complex scripts by offering an engaging experience that showcases the unique beauty and distinctiveness of Indian language typography, characters, type anatomy, and writing systems. By combining technology, design, and linguistics, the platform provides a user-centric solution for individuals and typographers interested in learning Indian languages by making these complex scripts …

The Enigmatic Taoist Relic: A Fusion Of Chinese Traditional Culture And Futuristic Imagination, Zhuoran Yang

Theses

The Eight Immortals is one of the representative mythological stories in traditional Chinese culture. Being a cultural creation that incorporates the ideas of local Chinese Taoism, these eight immortals and their iconic instruments, the Eight Treasures, have become symbols and emblems that have appeared as decorations on artifacts throughout the ages. This story has been rewritten into various novels, plays, movies, and even games throughout history. However, they have never broken away from a classical oriental narrative, and its dissemination has been limited to the Chinese-speaking world. And in this age of globalization, this story should have a wider audience …

It's There, Seojung Kang

Theses

This thesis explores the true value of normalcy through repetitive production in order to redefine the importance of ordinary that is taken for granted.

Unbound: An Analog Tapestry Of Reading Experiences, Ipek Koprululu

Theses

This project explores the transformative potential of typography in visual communication, focusing on how typographic treatments can shape and expand the perception of text. Centered on Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar, the research investigates how different typographic approaches – employing both analog and digital methods – can alter emotional impact, narrative significance, and universal accessibility. Through a systematic approach encompassing research, design decisions, and presentation, the study reveals how typography can transcend the literal meaning of words, enriching them with diverse emotional and visual interpretations. The project utilizes various formats, including posters, an accordion-style book, a stop-motion video, and interactive …

A Domain-Specific Language For Accounting, Janhavi Doshi

Theses

Accounting can be loosely described as a set of rules and best practices for recording and reporting financial transactions. Despite the seemingly straightforward nature of these principles, implementing them through programming has proven to be complex. Currently, over 550 accounting software solutions exist, developed using more than 17 programming languages. These diverse and often fragmented solutions have led to numerous instances of fraud and errors that elude early detection due to inadequate validity checks. This study investigates the need for a unified approach by developing a Domain-Specific Language (DSL) for Accounting. The proposed DSL aims to standardize accounting practices, enhance …

Photonic Integrated Circuit Data Acquisition And Tunable Laser Control For Biomedical Point Of Care Systems, Maximilian Thoburn

Theses

In the world of healthcare, it has always been desirable to have a single test that can screen for multiple different patient ailments at once. Toward this end, a silicon photonics platform has been developed that uses photonic integrated circuits in combination with lasers to simultaneously perform various biological assays, i.e., to screen for biological markers in a patient’s sample. This system uses inexpensive passive flow cards with inexpensive photonic integrated circuits to create a disposable test platform that can be used in point of care environments. However, the necessary bench-top equipment to run an assay with these cards is …

Effects Of Urban Borders On Synanthropic Mesopredator Movement And Risk Of Toxoplasma Gondii Infection In The Protected Lands Of Key Largo, Florida Usa, Kelly A. Crandall

Theses

Protected lands are an important source of food, shelter, and reproductive opportunities for wildlife, especially in urbanizing landscapes. When urban development abuts the edges of protected lands, synanthropic species can alter their foraging behaviors and movement to utilize human-supplemented resources throughout the urban-wild interface. Therefore, urban edges on protected lands can have pronounced effects on animal movement and ecosystem function. There is also increased risk of disease transmission where high densities of wild animals exist, or where domestic animals and wild species are interacting. In particular, members of the family Felidae, including domestic cats (Felis catus), can transmit the pathogenic …

Energetics And Passivation Of Surface Defects In Hgte Colloidal Quantum Dots, Jacob D. Eisensmith

Theses

Colloidal quantum dots (CQDs), and especially HgTe CQDs, have the potential to disrupt traditional solid-state manufacturing of sensitive infrared photodetectors. Here we produce a surface model for (111) HgTe surfaces present in tetrahedral CQDs and attempt to use density functional theory (DFT) to explore various issues in the fabrication and performance of HgTe CQD photodetectors. One such concern is the presence of mid-gap trap states that can hurt device performance. In this work, we demonstrate that an abundant source of these trap states is unpassivated mercury at the surface of the nanocrystal, which can be corrected with passivation procedures. Furthermore, …

Development And Testing Of A Far Infrared Fourier Transform Spectrometer For The Calibration Of On-Chip Spectrometers, Dale Mercado

Theses

Astrophysical measurements in the far-infrared (FIR) wavelengths are crucial for a variety of astrophysical applications. These include probing the fuel for cosmic star formation, understanding the developmental cycles of protoplanetary disks, and investigating the role and composition of dust in the interstellar medium. Our collaboration is currently developing a FIR on-chip spectrometer that is operable in the range of 100-200µm, utilizing low-noise kinetic inductance detectors (KIDs). As these devices incorporate new technology, their spectral response must be measured and compared with traditional FIR optical dispersion methods. To this end, we have designed a cryogenic Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS) that operates …

Pins, Inhwan Jeon

Theses

Pins aims to portray the societal landscape observed and experienced by me as an international student, highlighting sociological concerns like hatred and hate crimes instead of focusing on surface-level metrics such as the risk and fatality rates of COVID-19. Through this work, I want to remind the audience of the multifaceted nature of society and the emotions evoked by COVID-19, prompting reflection on the role of art during times of crisis. While transforming my original medium of metal objects into an installation art format, I explored concepts such as spacing, installation, cognition, narrative, and multiple senses. I integrated these elements …

Fruiting Bodies, Abigail Weber

Theses

"Fruiting Bodies" is a motion graphic installation that visually interprets the stages of fungi development through imaginative imagery and dynamic typography. Exploring themes of decay and rebirth, it prompts viewers to reflect on the transient nature of existence and the cyclical patterns of life and death. In its original form, "Fruiting Bodies" is projected onto a large-scale 'petri dish' in a continuous loop format and fosters a visceral engagement with its subject, creating a sense of intimacy and connection with the ever-changing life around us. Its visuals guide viewers through the key phases of fungal growth, redefining fungi as symbols …

The Logical Reasoning Dilemma Of Llms: A Mapping Deficit In Representation Acquisition, Yiling Wu

Theses

Currently, Large Language Models (LLMs) based on the Generative Pre-trained Transformer architecture have made breakthroughs in multilingual language processing tasks and performed similar language processing capabilities to humans. However, their performance in dealing with tasks involving reasoning, especially logical reasoning, show significant shortcomings. In this paper, we argue that logical reasoning competence requires a certain type of representation acquisition capability. Based on this, in order to assess whether LLMs have the potential to overcome the shortcomings of their logical reasoning competence in their subsequent development, this work compares the representation acquisition processes of humans and LLMs. This comparison reveals that …

Combined Virtual Reality And Mechanical Balance Platform System With Induced Visual Roll, Shkenca Demiri

Theses

Balance impairments are a common and widespread concern in human health. Acquired through genetics, aging, illness, or prolonged exposure to different environments such as travel by sea or travel in outer space; balance impairments pose significant challenges to those affected. Traditionally, balance studies have been largely qualitative. However, technological advancements have allowed for new methodologies to be developed for analyzing postural sway in a quantitative manner. In this thesis, custom force plate technology, an advanced inertial motion unit (IMU) motion capture system, and a mechanical motion platform, in tandem with a gamification system, were integrated to collect and analyze quantitative …

A Systematic Review Of Trauma-Informed Care In Applied Behavior Analysis, Staci Archibald

Theses

Although the use of trauma-informed care (TIC) has been featured in the delivery of different human services fields, its integration in applied behavior analysis (ABA) is scarce. The purpose of this research was to determine how many empirical studies include both principles of behavior analysis as well as TIC. The findings imply that, while research in this area is very limited, including TIC in ABA may improve treatment outcomes, particularly for people with complicated trauma histories and many restrictive measures. This review revealed a significant literature gap regarding specific frameworks and guidelines for effectively integrating TIC into ABA practices. Addressing …

Using The High-Probability Instructional Sequence To Increase Compliance With Vocal Imitation In Children Diagnosed With Developmental Delays, Kimberly Derque

Theses

Previous studies have evaluated the effects of the high-p instructional procedure involving motor imitation on the levels of compliance with vocal imitation in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The current study replicated Hansen et al. (2018) by demonstrating the effectiveness of high-probability (high-p) instructional sequence involving motor imitation to improve compliance with vocal imitation in three preschool age children with developmental delay. A multiple baseline across participants was implemented to show the procedure's effects on compliance with vocal imitation responses. The EESA subtest of the VBMAPP was administered before and after the intervention to determine the level of vocal …

An Investigation Of The Sub-Lethal Impacts To Pollinators From Pesticides, Emily Beahm

Theses

In order to feed a growing global population, agricultural practices must utilize pesticides to maintain high yields. Responsible use of pesticides should be based on literature confirming their efficacy and safety. When pesticides are not adequately investigated prior to their release, there can be severe consequences. Many highly effective pesticides, such as the class neonicotinoids, were allowed to be used commercially prior to thorough assessment of their environmental risks, resulting in consequences that largely have fallen to the exposed pollinator populations. To avoid similar outcomes, I tested the popular biopesticide Botanigard which contains Beauveria bassiana, an entomopathogenic fungus previously exposed …

Using Behavioral Skills Training To Promote Online Safety Skills In Individuals With Developmental Disabilities, Robert Lynn

Theses

Abstract

Children are spending more time online, which is putting them at risk of encountering online predators. There have been attempts to minimize the occurrence of these encounters, but most of these involved instructional training and parent supervision. One alternative intervention for addressing safety skills that has been shown to be effective is behavior skills training (BST), which is a procedure based on behavior analytic literature. BST involves instructions, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of BST on the acquisition of online safety skills in adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities. In-situ …

Evaluating The Effectiveness Of Behavioral Skills Training For Teaching Implementation Of Natural Language Paradigm Program To Staff In An Early Intervention Setting, Abigail Kinnear

Theses

Due to the prevalence of language delays in children with ASD, it is important to provide effective treatment and ensure highly trained staff to implement language programs. Natural Language Paradigm (NLP) is a naturalistic approach that includes individualized motivating variables, natural reinforcers, and direct response to reinforcer contingencies to increase vocal communication and generalization of skills. Behavioral skills training (BST) is an effective strategy that uses instructions, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback to teach staff to implement specific programs. The current study replicated Seiverling et al. (2009) study on evaluating the effectiveness of using BST to train three staff to implement …

Teaching Adults With Developmental Disabilities To Ask "Why?", Mya White

Theses

Mands for information play an important role in language development and are important for successfully acquiring new information from one’s environment. Still, many individuals cannot effectively ask Wh- questions to mand for information, even though they may have extensive tact, intraverbal, and receptive language skills. Recently, Valentino et al. (2019) investigated procedures to teach the MFI “Why?” to children with language delays under the control of the establishing operation and examined the extent to which teaching resulted in generalization. The purpose of this study was to extend Valentino et al. protocol with three adults with developmental disabilities. The procedure involved …

Reach, Rachel Immel

Theses

Reach is a 2D digitally animated short film that is dedicated to exploring the sacrifices that are made to achieve our dreams. The story of my graduate thesis film follows Moe, a subterrestrial bat-like creature that dreams of being able to see the sky for the first time. Feeling suffocated by his dark and cramped surroundings, he rushes toward the surface as soon as a busted rusty pipe provides what appears to be an opening to the surface. What he does not know is that he is venturing into danger that will change him forever. This project is inspired by …

Effects Of Simulated Climate Change On Native Southeastern Grassland Vegetation Using Open Top Chambers, Makaila Carpenter

Theses

The southeastern United States is a critical biodiversity hotspot once covered in prairie grassland ecosystems and now facing significant threats due to urbanization, habitat destruction, over-exploitation, biological invasions, pollution, and climate change. This study analyzes the response of Alabama’s native prairie ecosystem to climate change. We used open top chambers (OTCs) to simulate climate change-induced warming. We assessed the response of ecosystem function and structure to higher temperatures (1-3^oC). The indicators of ecosystem function included phenology, leaf surface area (LSA), specific leaf area (SLA), and aboveground and below net primary productivity (ANPP and BNPP respectively). Ecosystem structure was …

Effects Of Vitis Vinifera L. Seed Extract On Short-Term Memory Of Amyloid-Beta-Mediated Neurodegeneration In Transgenic Caenorhabditis Elegans, Elise Patrick

Theses

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition that is a common cause of dementia and a growing concern worldwide with no effective treatment or cure. Two pathological AD hallmarks include buildup of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain. Recent attention has turned to exploring natural products and compounds for AD symptom relief and treatment. Vitis vinifera grape seed extract (GSE) contains many beneficial substances. GSE has been tested in several animal models and has shown to improve memory and is even being examined in an AD treatment human clinical trial. In this study, the aim was …

Generation Z’S Perspective On Work-Life Balance: Case Of Kosovo, Lorine Bajrami

Theses

This capstone project examines the perspective of Generation Z in Kosovo toward work-life balance by specifically looking at their preferences regarding flexibility, remote work, and the compromise of work-life balance with other work-related factors. People who are born between 1996 and 2010 belong to the Generation Z cohort, which is characterized by profound digital savviness, mental health awareness, preference for flexibility in workplace, and strong desire to balance work and personal life. The data for analyzing the Gen Z’s perspectives on life work-balance is collected through an online survey (n=174) and two focus group discussions. Global reports and existing research …

Digital Transformation Of The Accounting And Audit Industry In Kosovo, Lis Musa

Theses

This capstone project analyzes how Kosovo's audit and accounting industry is being affected by digital transformation. Its aim is to explore how digitalization affects skills gaps, job accuracy, company costs, and productivity in different sectors at a time when technological breakthroughs are drastically changing industry. Professionals from Big 10 accounting and audit firms as well as a local Kosovo accounting business were interviewed to gather insights on the potential and difficulties brought about by digital tools and technologies. Research findings show that digital transformation is considerably bridging the skills gap in the industry, imposing constant professional development and adjustment to …

Music Education In The Urban Classroom: Issues Of Equity And Access, Lakeisha Walker

Theses

Music education in urban classrooms plays a crucial role in shaping students' overall development and academic success. The field of music education is not immune to the challenges of equity and access that exist in urban settings. It is essential to address these issues to ensure that all students have equal opportunities to participate in music programs and reap the countless benefits that come with them.

The importance of this topic in the field of music education cannot be overstated. Research has shown that students who participate in music programs demonstrate improved academic performance, enhanced cognitive skills, and increased creativity. …

Three Zafimaniry Carvings From The Southern Highlands Of Madagascar And Their Symbolic Meaning, Emily Krupp

Theses

The Zafimaniry people are a community living in the southern highlands of Madagascar, most known for their geometric, low-relief works of art that they carve onto wooden surfaces throughout their villages. The shapes that make up the designs signify the Zafimaniry people's ideologies, but motifs carved into the homes specifically represent their beliefs about marriage and societal structure. Three metaphorical symbols have been translated within the motifs by the Zafimaniry people as the patriarch, the family, and the community. A comparative cultural study between the motifs on Zafimaniry window shutters and Swahili doorways reveal similarities in material culture, visual elements …

The Relationship Between Changing Land Cover And Benthic Macroinvertebrate Diversity In Choccolocco Creek, Northeast Alabama, Kindall Brown

Theses

Land cover changes, driven by urbanization, agriculture, and deforestation, significantly affect the physical and chemical characteristics of water bodies at both the watershed and riparian levels. At the larger spatial scale, a stream’s surrounding watershed facilitates lateral inputs into the stream that are essential for biodiversity support, hydrological stability, and water quality. When a stream becomes disconnected from the lateral inputs due to urban or agricultural development, the morphology of the stream is significantly altered. On a smaller spatial scale, the riparian zone can act as a buffer to pollutants. The vegetation surrounding the stream bank promotes stability to the …