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Graduate Catalog 2011-2012, Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Graduate Catalogs

No abstract provided.

An Invitation To Wander, Lyudmila Lavrova

Khazar Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

―An invitation to wander‖ is Lyudmila Lavrova’s introduction to the book Contrasts, collection of poems by Hamlet Isaxanli which were translated from Azerbaijani into Russian by Alla Akhundova (Izograf, Moscow, 2006). Lavrova describes Isaxanli’s poetry as ―transparent and simple,‖ comparing him to a medieval Arab-Islamic philosopher because of the themes throughout his works of ―Many and One.‖ Even in small details of life and nature, he finds cause to revere the Divine. His poetry is also notable for its connection to mathematics and its foundation of reason. This is logical given Isakhanli’s background as a mathematician; Lavrova offers an extensive …

Community Screening And Treatment Of Asymptomatic Carriers Of Plasmodium Falciparum With Artemether-Lumefantrine To Reduce Malaria Disease Burden: A Modelling And Simulation Analysis, S.E. Kern, A.B. Tiono, M. Makanga, A. Gbadoe, Zul Premji, O. Gaye, I. Sagara, D. Ubben, M. Cousin, F. Oladiran, O. Sander, B. Ogutu

Pathology, East Africa

Background: Asymptomatic carriers of Plasmodium falciparum serve as a reservoir of parasites for malaria transmission. Identification and treatment of asymptomatic carriers within a region may reduce the parasite reservoir and influence malaria transmission in that area.

Methods: Using computer simulation, this analysis explored the impact of community screening campaigns (CSC) followed by systematic treatment of P. falciparum asymptomatic carriers (AC) with artemether-lumefantrine (AL) on disease transmission. The model created by Okell et al (originally designed to explore the impact of the introduction of treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapy on malaria endemicity) was modified to represent CSC and treatment of …

Diagnosis Of Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis On Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology: A Case Report And Review Of The Cytology Literature, Neeta Kumar, Shahin Sayed, Sudhir Vinayak

Pathology, East Africa

A case of multifocal Langerhans cell histiocytosis in a two-year-old child is presented where fine needle aspiration was helpful in achieving a rapid and accurate diagnosis in an appropriate clinical and radiological setting. This can avoid unnecessary biopsy and guide the management especially where access to histopathology is limited. The highly characteristic common and rare cytological features are highlighted with focus on differential diagnoses and causes of pitfalls.

Predictors Of Academic Achievement And Failure Among Low-Income Urban African American Adolescents: An Ecological Perspective, Israel Moses Gross

Master's Theses

Predictors of academic achievement among urban low-income African American adolescents have primarily been investigated by examining "main effects," or limited interactions with conventional statistical techniques. This paper adds to the literature by examining the factors that influence academic outcomes among this population within an ecological systems framework. This allowed for a comprehensive understanding of how numerous protective and risk factors, across ecological settings, interact to influence academic outcomes.

Optimal Data Analysis (ODA) was employed to create prediction models for mathematic and reading achievement. ODA allowed for the examination of a vast number of variables in one statistical model without increasing …

The Decentralization And Centralization Of Curriculum In The Primary Education Of Burkina Faso, Simon A. Ziba

Master's Theses

In Burkina Faso, a decree which transfers competences and resources related to basic education to municipalities, does not mention the case of curriculum. This study seeks to understand how do educational policymakers in Burkina Faso explain why educational decentralization initiatives have not heretofore affected curriculum issues, and how do they view the possibility and desirability of a decentralized curriculum. It uses qualitative and quantitative methods. This nationwide study has participants who are primary education bureaucrats and educational policymakers at the central, regional and provincial levels of the ministry in charge of basic education. The results of this study show that …

Politics And Pupils: How The Conflict Between The Washington Teachers' Union And The Fenty Administration Impacted Education Reform In The District Of Columbia, Maureen Therese Costello

Master's Theses

Upon gaining mayoral control of DCPS on June 12, 2007, Mayor Fenty and Chancellor Rhee immediately challenged DCPS procedure and outspokenly called for increased accountability from all stakeholders. Washington's contemporary reform reveals that not only was teacher accountability an important component of reform policy in Mayor Fenty and Chancellor Rhee's educational ideology, it functioned as an essential standard. This document based analysis utilizes the WTU/DCPS teachers' contract, DCPS and WTU press releases, and the framework of the IMPACT/IMPACTplus performance-based pay system to examine the relationship between the WTU and the Fenty Administration amidst Chancellor Rhee's reform policies. The turbulent relationship …

Modularizing Crosscutting Concerns In Software, Nalin Saigal

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Code modularization provides benefits throughout the software life cycle; however, the presence of crosscutting concerns (CCCs) in software hinders its complete modularization. Traditional modularization techniques work well under the assumption that code being modularized is functionally orthogonal to the rest of the code; as a result, software engineers try to separate code segments that are orthogonal in their functionality into distinct modules. However, in practice, software does not decompose neatly into modules with distinct, orthogonal functionality. In this thesis, we investigate the modularization of CCCs in software using two different techniques.

Firstly, we discuss IVCon, a GUI-based tool that provides …

Identification Of Patient Recovery Patterns After Cardiovascular Surgery Based On Laboratory Tests Results, Alcides Ricardo Santander Mercado

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

In this dissertation is proposed a methodology to identify patient's recovery patterns after cardiovascular surgery based on laboratory tests results. The main purpose is to enhance the understanding of the manifestations of postsurgical complications in patients who underwent cardiovascular surgery. The analysis of patients' recovery process is based on the relationship between plasma calcium, ionized calcium and platelet count over time.

Laboratory results from the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital databases, related to patients admitted to the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) after cardiac surgery (coronary artery bypass, aortic value replacement and mitral valve replacement), are used. These databases contain …

Atrial Fibrillation Signal Analysis, Raja Sarath Chandra Prasad Vaizurs

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice and is associated with an increased mortality and morbidity. Identification of the sources of AF has been a goal of researchers for over 20 years. Current treatment procedures such as Cardio version, Radio Frequency Ablation, and multiple drugs have reduced the incidence of AF. Nevertheless, the success rate of these treatments is only 35-40% of the AF patients as they have limited effect in maintaining the patient in normal sinus rhythm. The problem stems from the fact that there are no methods developed to analyze …

Robotic Hand Evaluation Based On Task Specific Kinematic Requirements, Carlos Rafael Neninger

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

With the rise autonomous and robotic systems in field applications, the need for dexterous, highly adaptable end effectors has become a major research topic. Control mechanisms of robotics hands with a high number independent actuators is recognized as a complex, high dimensional problem, with exponentially complex algorithms. However, recent studies have shown that human hand motion possesses very high joint correlation which translates into a set of predefined postures, or synergies. The hand produces a motion using a complementing contribution of multiple joints, called synergies. The similarities place variables onto a common dimensional space, effectively reducing the number of independent …

An Analysis Of Remote Biometric Authentication With Windows, Brandy Marie Eyers

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

One thing that everyone seems to be worried about when it comes to his or her computer is security. If your computer is not secure then private information could be stolen. Many people now use passwords to protect themselves though they are discovering that using multi-factor authentication is much more secure. It allows you to use multiple different proofs of who you are. Biometrics is one of the ways to prove identity. Using it, you could log into a system with just a fingerprint, which is something that is very difficult to steal. We present a suite of software tools …

An Ofdm Based Aeronautical Communication System, Jamal Haque

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Wireless connectivity is becoming an integral part of our society. A new paradigm for aeronautical data services is beginning to take shape. The advances in signal processing, rapid prototyping, an insatiable consumer demand for Internet services, increase in aircraft traffic, aircraft safety, etc., are driving the demand for high speed data services. Programs led by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), EUROCONTROL and Networking the Sky for Civil Aeronautical Communications (NEWSKY) are all looking into aeronautical platforms as part of their Aeronautical Data Network (ADN). The desire is to provide low delay, cost effective …

Decision Support Models For Design Of Fortified Distribution Networks, Qingwei Li

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Lean distribution networks have been facing an increased exposure to the risk of unpredicted disruptions causing significant economic forfeitures. At the same time, the existing literature contains very few studies that examine the impact of fortification of facilities for improving network reliability. This dissertation presents three related classes of models that support the design of reliable distribution networks. The models extend the uncapacitated P-median and fixed-charge location models by considering heterogeneous facility failure probabilities, supplier backups, and facility fortification within a finite budget. The first class of models considers binary fortification via linear fortification functions. The second class of models …

Analytical Methods To Support Risk Identification And Analysis In Healthcare Systems, Laila Nadime Cure Vellojin

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Healthcare systems require continuous monitoring of risk to prevent adverse events. Risk analysis is a time consuming activity that depends on the background of analysts and available data. Patient safety data is often incomplete and biased. This research proposes systematic approaches to monitor risk in healthcare using available patient safety data. The methodologies combine traditional healthcare risk analysis methods with safety theory concepts, in an innovative manner, to allocate available evidence to potential risk sources throughout the system. We propose the use of data mining to analyze near-miss reports and guide the identification of risk sources. In addition, we propose …

Multiple Solutions To Problems In Mathematics Teaching: Do Teachers Really Value Them?, Erhan Bingolbali

Australian Journal of Teacher Education

Solving problems in different ways is strongly advised for mathematics learning and teaching. There is, however, little data available on the examination of teachers’ openness to and evaluation of different solutions to the problems. In this paper, the author examines classroom teachers’ openness to different solutions (or to what extent they value different solutions) to problems and how they evaluate (grade) these solutions. For this purpose, two questionnaires including items on students’ different solutions are applied to about 500 classroom teachers. In this paper, only two items related to the focus of the study are analysed. The findings show that …

Tailoring Mentoring For New Mathematics And Science Teachers: An Exploratory Study, Christine Ormond

Australian Journal of Teacher Education

This paper explores some aspects of effective professional mentoring practice for early career mathematics and science teachers, and discusses the Early Support Program (ESP), a research project conducted in 2009 and 2010 at a large Australian metropolitan university. It is argued that better outcomes may result from a more strategic “tailoring” of mentoring “type” for different aspects of new teacher induction, especially as school-based mentors often have insufficient time or training to support them. The ESP has been trialling its more “distanced” mentoring model, tracking the issues that a group of new teachers chose to discuss with their mentors, and …

Using Online Blogs To Develop Student Teachers’ Behaviour Management Approaches, Andrea Reupert, Barney Dalgarno

Australian Journal of Teacher Education

This paper reports on a study involving 74 third and 17 fourth year student teachers enrolled in a Bachelor of Education (Primary) course at an Australian regional, multi-campus university. These pre-service primary teachers completed the single semester, compulsory subject Managing the Learning Environment, which involves the application of behaviour management theory and research into the primary school classroom.  The aim of the study was to investigate the experiences of student teachers using blogs whilst on professional placement and more specifically, the effectiveness of blogs to facilitate reflection on behaviour management. Data were drawn from focus group interviews and blog postings. …

Restoring Transparency To Automated Authority, Frank Pasquale

Colorado Technology Law Journal

No abstract provided.

The Broadcasters' Transition Date Roulette: Strategic Aspects Of The Dtv Transition, James Miller, James E. Prieger

Colorado Technology Law Journal

No abstract provided.

No Child Left Behind: Advantages And Disadvantages, Kelly M. Rohlfsen

Graduate Research Papers

The No Child Left Behind Act is quickly approaching its deadline of 2014. With the expectation being 100% of students in the United States being proficient according to state guidelines, many people, including teachers, administrators and parents are questioning the reality of No Child Left Behind (NCLB), and whether or not the Nation will meet the expectation set forth. This paper describes a select few advantages and disadvantages of the No Child Left Behind Act, and how those various aspects of the law impact teachers and students alike. In addition, this paper also describes the inconsistencies between states in how …

The Presence Of Gender Stereotypes In Children's Picture Book Illustrations, Jenahlee Chamberlain

Graduate Research Papers

Numerous studies have been conducted throughout the past several decades on the topic of gender stereotypes present in children's picture books. The purpose of this quantitative content analysis is to examine the portrayal of males and females and the representation of gender roles in children's picture book illustrations. This analysis of 43 children's picture books awarded the Caldecott Award or Caldecott Honor between 2001 and 2011 sought to determine whether or not 21st century award winning children's picture book illustrations portrayed gender stereotypes. Each title was analyzed using a content analysis form to test the three hypotheses for this study. …

Development, Validation And Application Of Uhplc-Ms/Ms Methods For The Detection Of Veterinary Drug Residues In Food Of Animal Origin, Michelle Whelan

Theses

Ultra high pressure liquid chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) technology was utilized for the development of analytical methods for the detection of veterinary drug residues in foods of animal origin. Initial work focused on the development of the mass spectrometry (MS) method for the detection of the analytes of interest and subsequent chromatographic separation. The MS method was optimised to detect both positively and negatively ionised analytes from different classes in a single injection in a 13 minute run time at μg kg^-1levels.

Sample preparation procedures were modified to extract the residues from muscle and …

Catalog Denison University 2011-2012

Denison University Catalogs

Denison University Course Catalog 2011-2012

Estimating The Reproductive Numbers For The 2008-2009 Cholera Outbreaks In Zimbabwe, Zindoga Mukandavire, Shu Liao, Jin Wang, Holly Gaff, David L. Smith, J. Glenn Morris Jr.

Biological Sciences Faculty Publications

Cholera remains an important global cause of morbidity and mortality, capable of causing periodic epidemic disease. Beginning in August 2008, a major cholera epidemic occurred in Zimbabwe, with 98,585 reported cases and 4,287 deaths. The dynamics of such outbreaks, particularly in nonestuarine regions, are not well understood. We explored the utility of mathematical models in understanding transmission dynamics of cholera and in assessing the magnitude of interventions necessary to control epidemic disease. Weekly data on reported cholera cases were obtained from the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Welfare (MoHCW) for the period from November 13, 2008 to July 31, …

Diffusion And Random Walks, Lewis Ludwig, Annabel Edwards

Faculty Publications

No abstract provided.

Hbcus: Continued Relevance In The New Century, Sarah Willie-Lebreton

Sociology & Anthropology Faculty Works

No abstract provided.

Rank 2 Distributions Of Monge Equations: Symmetries, Equivalences, Ex-Tensions, Ian M. Anderson, B. Kruglikov

Mathematics and Statistics Faculty Publications

By developing the Tanaka theory for rank 2 distributions, we completely classify classical Monge equations having maximal finite-dimensional symmetry algebras with fixed (albeit arbitrary) pair of its orders. Investigation of the corresponding Tanaka algebras leads to a new Lie-Backlund theorem. We prove that all flat Monge equations are successive integrable extensions of the Hilbert-Cartan equation. Many new examples are provided.

From Coverture To Contract: Engendering Insurance On Lives, Mary L. Heen

Law Faculty Publications

In the 1840s, state legislatures began modifying the law of marital status to ease the economic distress of widows and children at the family breadwinner's death. Insurance-related exceptions to the common law doctrine of "marital unity" under coverture permitted married women to enter into insurance contracts and protected life insurance proceeds from their husbands' creditors. These early insurance-related statutory exceptions to coverture introduced an important theoretical question that persisted for the rest of the nineteenth century-and into the next-as broader legal and social reforms took hold. How could equality of contract for married women be reconciled with the traditional dependencies …

Vico, Llewellyn And The Task Of Legal Education, Francis J. Mootz Iii

McGeorge School of Law Scholarly Articles

No abstract provided.