Digital Commons Network^™

Design Of Waveguide Impedance-Matching Transformers Using Dielectric Blocks With Linear Tapers, Steven R. Van Kirk

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Manufacturing Firms In The Red River Trade Corridor : Measuring Commitment To Employee Training Practices From Internal Organizational Structures, Jeffrey S. Cook

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Mechanistic Model Of Multiphase Heat And Fluid Flow In Geothermal Wells, Peter T. Argument

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Walking Lightly On The Planet: A Curriculum Enrichment For The Pinelands Science Unit Of The Cherry Hill Environmental Education Residency Program On Pinelands Ecology, Elaine Ruth Miller

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis project is designed to produce written curriculum materials in Pinelands ecology. The written curriculum materials produced are intended to be implemented as part of the Pinelands Science Unit of the Cherry Hill Environmental Education Residency Program, also known as CHEER.

The written curriculum materials will include pre-trip, resident trip, and follow up assessment materials and activities that follow the given format for all Cherry Hill science units. The structure of such a program will allow, if desired, interdisciplinary coordination between science, math, English and ecology that correlate with the existing CHEER program. Through this experience it is expected …

Thermal Stresses In End-Heated Layered Media, Jerry R. Couick

Theses and Dissertations

Thermal stresses in semi-infinite layered beams heated on the end are calculated using an extension to simple bimetallic thermostat theory. Recently, researchers have used the concept of interfacial compliance to determine interlaminar stresses in a simple thermostat of finite length subjected to a uniform temperature increase. In the present work, the thermostat theory is extended to apply to the beams of interest. A closed-form solution to the problem is obtained. It is not applicable within about one beam thickness (St Venant boundary region) of the end. Various classes of layered materials are analyzed to determine if significant stresses exist outside …

Decision Support Model To Optimize Site Characterization Activities Taken In Compliance With The Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation And Liability Act, Daniel J. Clairmont

Theses and Dissertations

One of the most frequently cited reasons for the slow and costly progress of Superfund cleanups is the remedial investigation and feasibility study process (RI/FS). After each phase of the RI/FS process there are several possible alternatives that may be chosen. This research developed decision support models to help decision makers choose between the feasible alternatives at five different decision points during site characterization activities. The models make recommendations on how to deal with any particular chemical based on the risk posed by that chemical. The models assume that the value of characterizing the site further is a reduction in …

The Relationship Between Environmental Attitudes And Environmental Behaviors Among Air Force Members, Daniel T. Holt

Theses and Dissertations

A questionnaire was distributed to nearly 2,000 randomly selected active duty Air Force members assigned to locations throughout the continental United States. The survey was designed to determine the extent to which Air Force members expressed support for environmental issues. In addition, the survey measured how frequently Air Force members engaged in specific behaviors that were deemed environmentally protective. Although the Air Force members expressed relatively strong support for environmental issues, they only occasionally engaged in activities that contribute to the preservation or protection of the environment. Correlation analysis revealed that the pro-environmental attitudes were positively linked to the environmentally …

A Comparison Of Remediation Priorities Developed By The Defense Priority Model, The Relative Risk Evaluation Method, And A Quantitative Risk Assessment Approach, David M. Hunter

Theses and Dissertations

The Superfund, established by the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980, seriously underestimated both the number of severely contaminated sites and the associated cleanup cost. The magnitude of projected cleanup costs, coupled with shrinking federal budgets, necessitated the development and use of risk-based prioritization models among some federal agencies. Among these tools, the DOD prioritization models are meant to give priority to sites posing the greatest threat to human health. Their failure to properly rank sites could incorrectly shift the focus from those that pose substantial risk to sites of lesser risk. The DOD site ranking …

Design, Fabrication And Characterization Of Micro Opto-Electro-Mechanical Systems, Darren E. Sene

Theses and Dissertations

Several micro-opto-electro-mechanical structures were designed using the Multi-User MEMS Process (MUMPS). Specific design techniques were investigated for improving the capabilities of elevating flip up structures. The integration of several flip up microoptical structures into a microoptical system was explored with emphasis on the development of a microinterferometer. The thermal effects on the Modulus of Elasticity were determined by detecting the resonant frequency for a square Flexure Beam Micromirror Device. The resonance of the device was found to match theory to within 0.1 % and the Modulus of Elasticity was found to decrease by 0.041 GPa/K from 290 to 450 K. …

Multimedia And Audience: Implications For Executive Summaries, Donna M. Grudziecki

Theses and Dissertations

In an effort to put technical reports into a multimedia format, this thesis explored audience analysis and multimedia issues related to executive summaries. While multimedia has been shown to be effective at conveying complex information in certain environments, little research has been done to apply this technology to technical reporting. This thesis concentrates on the executive summary audience because the executive summary is the most read and most important section of a report. To analyze the audience, I conducted telephone interviews with report readers using an interview form I developed based on Mathes and Stevenson's guidelines for conducting an audience …

An Investigation Of The Appropriateness Of Computer-Based Instruction To The Royal Australian Air Force Ciscon Mustering, Linda M. New

Theses and Dissertations

Currently, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) uses traditional methods of training for all of its personnel, including the newly formed Communications and Information Systems Controllers (CISCON) mustering. The formation of this mustering and the concurrent formation on every RAAF base of a Base Information Systems Centre (BISC) brought to light training needs that were not being met. Using many different forms of stimulation to activate learning, computer-based instruction (CBI), in particular multimedia, represents an alternative method of presenting training.This research investigated the applicability of CBI to the RAAF by matching its features with the training needs of the CISCONs …

A Solid Surface From Which To Explore: The Executive Summary As The Frontispiece Of A Technical Hyperdocument, Alicia M. Williams

Theses and Dissertations

This research analyzes the purpose and organization of a well-written executive summary, reviews the characteristics of hypermedia, and compares the strengths and weaknesses of a typical executive summary published originally on paper and now under consideration for transition to hypermedia in order to determine which elements of an executive summary are essential before effective transition to hypermedia. The executive summary of a technical report is a stand-alone description of what was done, how it was done, what the results were, why they matter, and where further information is found in the report body. Executive summaries have a wider audience than …

Deaf Theatre And Sign Language: Tools For Theatre Education And Production, Carol Jm Frisch

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Student And Faculty Perceptions Of A Notebook Computer-Based Instructional System: A Case Study, Paula R. Cooke

Theses and Dissertations

Notebook computers are becoming an increasingly prevalent, and sometimes mandatory, accessory in college education. They and other new computer-assisted educational tools can increase dramatically the efficiency of traditional methods of instructional delivery and can provide the technological basis for new innovations in teaching strategy. However, as with any paradigm shift, the changeover in teaching and learning methods is difficult, expensive, and a disruption to the "status quo."

The object of this study was a four year polytechnic institution that recently implemented a mandatory notebook computer program for all students. The purpose of this study was to discover the perceptions of …

The Process Of Technology Transfer: A Case Study Of The National Aero-Space Plane Program, Brett T. Smith

Theses and Dissertations

Due to reduced funding levels and increased pressure towards cooperation with industry, government research and development (R&D) organizations are becoming increasingly involved in the transfer of technology to the commercial sector. However, the process of technology transfer is complex, and transfer activities are being applied inconsistently across the Department of Defense. This research explores the approaches, processes and mechanisms to accomplish technology transfer. A comprehensive literature review documents many of the transfer concepts that have been proposed or are currently in use. A detailed case study then examines the technology transfer efforts of an advanced government research organization: the National …

A Comparative Evaluation Of Voice Versus Keypad Input For Manipulating Electronic Technical Data For Flight Line Maintenance Technicians, David A. Chapman, James R. Simmons

Theses and Dissertations

Interactive Electronic Technical Manuals will soon become a requirement for aircraft maintenance technicians. An important aspect in their development is the selection of an input device that will enhance, rather than impede, technician performance. The purpose of this thesis was to evaluate two types of input devices that can he used: a voice recognition input and a keypad input. Studies to date have evaluated the superiority of digital data over paper data, and advantages of using a Head Mounted Display Device over a flat screen laptop computer. No research has evaluated the input device. An experiment was conducted to determine …

A Preliminary Analysis Of The Theoretical Parameters Of Organizational Learning, Jeffery D. Loyd

Theses and Dissertations

The goal of this research was to develop an instrument capable of measuring the theoretical parameters of organizational learning that could be used as a diagnostic tool to measure an organization's learning potential. This goal was accomplished by developing a pilot questionnaire based on 27 potential learning parameters. The potential parameters of learning were extracted from the literature. A scale of behavioral statements was developed for each potential parameter. The pilot questionnaire was completed by 108 Air Force personnel in Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) graduate education programs. The results confirmed 85% of the original scales. Ten refined scales …

Cost Management Competencies: The Importance And Frequency As Seen By The Financial Analyst, Diana E. Pry

Theses and Dissertations

This research studied the application of cost management competencies in the financial management career field. The purpose was to determine how frequently these competencies are used by the financial analysts and how important they are in the analysts' work environment. To accomplish this research a mail survey was sent to 978 financial analysts across Air Force Materiel Command. Out of the 978 survey instruments sent 535 were returned with useful data, for a response rate of 54.7%. From these surveys, 24 of the 49 competencies were identified as being valuable to financial analysts. The 24 competencies provide a framework for …

United States Security Assistance 1977-1980: Human Rights Issues Affecting Arms Transfers, Gary E. Gordon

Theses and Dissertations

The 1970s were a period of great transition for the United States. Plagued by the Vietnam conflict, a conflict which we could never win because of poor planning and lack of resolve by government officials in the highest office, and the Watergate debacle, where our government veered out of control, the time was ripe for change. Which is precisely why the ideals and philosophies of one James Earl Carter enabled him to ascend to become the 39th President of the United States. President Carter entered office pledging the United States would lead the way in the restriction of weapons exports …

A Study Of The Best Messages, Channels And Audiences To Increase Vocations To The Catholic Diocesan Priesthood, Martin R. Coppola

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine the best messages, channels and audiences to increase vocations to the Catholic diocesan priesthood. The study sought to determine the best messages, channels for those messages and audiences to receive those messages in an effort to increase vocations to the Catholic diocesan priesthood.

In addition to providing a demographic profile of priests, seminarians and men considering a vocation from three different dioceses across the country, the study sought to determine general information on the messages and channels that had influenced men who are already priests, seminarians and considering a vocation.

This non-probability …

Effect Of Parenting Style And Supervision On Adolescent Risky Behavior And Academic Achievement, David L. Mccullough

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether correlations existed between parenting style, degree of supervision, risky behavior (substance use) and academic achievement. Subjects' responses were also summarized to develop a profile of the population's behaviors and attitudes.

The study was based on 57 high school seniors' responses to a 95-item questionnaire which they voluntarily completed during their home economics class at Woodstown High School in southern New Jersey.

Relationships were analyzed by applying the chi square test for independence using the critical value of alpha at .05. The results of this analysis indicated that the hypothesized relationships approached …

Amazing Grains: A Study Of The Grand Forks Food Cooperative, Lisa Wikenheiser

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

A Qualitative Study Of Reading Aloud To Early Primary Children, Jocelyn R. Sherwood

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Attention Deficit Disorder: Diagnosis And Treatment, Daryl A. Watson

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

A Comparative Exploration Of Professional And Community Attitudes Regarding The Physical Discipline Of Children, Randall L. Slavens

Theses and Dissertations

It is mandatory that reported incidents of suspected child abuse/neglect be assessed by Child Protective Service workers. In the state of North Dakota the determination of allegations of child abuse/neglect are that probable cause exists or that no probable cause exists to believe that child abuse/neglect has occurred. The final determination is the responsibility of the Regional Director of Human Services or their designee, usually the Regional Supervisor of Social Services. County Child Protection Teams work along with these professionals and protective service social workers in an advisory capacity in reviewing protective service assessments.

The purpose of this study was …

Gender Specific Rhetoric: A Look At Today, Mary Helen Richer

Theses and Dissertations

Gender impacts every part of life. From the moment a baby is bom, that child is placed in a gender categoiy. As one grows, these categories define how the person should act as well as how they should speak. These stereotypes become such a part o f an individual that often they are seen as an innate or biological part o f women and men, but this is not the case. These stereotypes can be broken and many are, particularly by women who feel it necessaiy to conform to the male standard to get ahead in business. Therefore, it is …

Are There Cultural Differences In The Self-Report Of Symptoms Of Pms In Adolescents?: A Comparison Study Of Chippewa Native Americans And Caucasian Americans, Shelly M. Peltier

Theses and Dissertations

Subjects completed a series of questionnaires as a means to obtain symptoms experienced across three phases of the cycle (menstrual, premenstrual, and intermenstrual). The questionnaires completed included the Demographic Data Questionnaire, the Moos' Menstrual Distress Questionnaire, the Depression Adjective Check List (Forms A and D), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (Forms Y-1 and Y-2), and Index Cards for two consecutive months. There were nintey-nine (99) subjects: forty-seven (47) Caucasian American adolescents and fifty-two (52) Chippewa Native American adolescents. Two subjects were dropped from this study, one from each group, due to the exclusion criteria established prior to data collection, leaving forty-six …

Money And Politics: An Examination Of Federal Campaign Finance Reform Legislation And Continuing Reform Proposals, George A. Waller

Theses and Dissertations

This study examines the development of modem campaign finance reform legislation and analyzes some of the major proposals for continued reform. Arguments both for and against various proposals for campaign finance reform have been advanced in the continuing debate. This study examines key elements of the major reform proposals which have continuously resurfaced in that debate.

Out of the campaign finance discussion certain central issues emerge, each of which is empirically examined in this study. Those issues are: (1) Whether or not to impose expenditure ceilings on all congressional campaigns, (2) Whether or not further restrictions, or an outright ban, …

The Effects Of Laboratory Stress On Appraisal Of Control In Bulimia, Maria L. Kearney

Theses and Dissertations

Recent work pertaining to bulimia has shown that bulimics tend to perceive themselves as having a decreased ability to control their environments, particularly when faced with a stressful situation. Results from studies examining the type or amount of stress experienced by bulimics have been inconsistent. The transactional model of stress, which calls for the examination of an individual's appraisal of a situation, provides a more advanced method of measuring stress than has generally been used in past studies.

The present study sought to examine bulimics' perceptions of control in stressful and nonstressful situations using an in vivo behavioral task, Thirty …

Improving Aspen/Sp Computer Model Of Great Plains Coal Gasifiers, Md. Moazzem Hossain

Theses and Dissertations

The Great Plains Gasification Plant located in Beulah, North Dakota, operated by the Dakota Gasification Company (DGC) is the only commercial production plant in the United States making synthetic natural gas (SNG) from coal. DGC operates 14 Lurgi gasifiers to produce 158 million ft3/day of SNG from 17,000 tons of North Dakota lignite coal. As the first step in constructing a model of the entire plant to control its operation and optimize the economic performance, an ASPEN/SP computer model (called RGAS) of a Lurgi gasifier was developed with the combined effort of several researchers. RGAS will predict the impact of …