Digital Commons Network^™

Investigating Division Quest: A Text-Based Adventure Narrative Game For Overcoming Difficulties Of Mitosis Learning, Amanda G. Conner

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Mitosis learning is a source of struggle for many introductory biology students. Much of this difficulty stems from an overwhelming amount of terminology and moving pieces as well as the abstract nature of cellular processes. Game-based learning (GBL) has been used in other contexts to reduce cognitive load and provide relatable experiences upon which students can construct their mental models. However, commercial GBL is often expensive and difficult to align with individual instructor teaching preferences and learning objectives. In this study, we use a mixed methods approach to explore the use of a GBL tool made in Twine to overcome …

Enumeration Of Lattice Paths With Restrictions, Vince White

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Lattice path enumeration, through the lens of Catalan numbers, plays a crucial role in combinatorics. This thesis delves into enumerations of some of the most common lattice paths – north-east paths, up-down paths, and Dyck paths – with restrictions applied. The first restriction is counting north-east lattice paths that only cross the diagonal line, y=x, once. The second form of lattice paths with restrictions is up-down paths that cross the x-axis exactly once and fall to a fixed depth of k. While working through this module, a novel proof for a known integer sequence was used, then applied to generate …

Accounting For Variability Due To Resampling Using Bootstrapping, Dipendra Phuyal

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Bradley Efron (1979) introduced bootrapping. Typically a researcher is interested in studying a process which generates individuals. The collection of individuals the process has(actual) or could have (conceptual) generated is the population. The collection of conceptual members of the population is an uncountable collection. Hence, the population is anuncountable collection of individuals. The collection of individuals the process has generated (actual individuals) is representative of what the process can generate and will bereferred to as the representative sample. The size of this sample is a nonnegative integervalued random variable N which may be a constant random variable such as in …

Machine Learning Based Three-Limb Core-Type Transformer Core Aspect Ratios Identification, Ananta Bijoy Bhadra

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Power transformers are considered one of the key elements of electric grids. Transient studies include transformer transient analysis which is required for the continuous power supply. However, to perform the transient analysis, the details of the internal structure of the transformer are required which are unobtainable and considered as confidential information. Therefore, the application of topological-based transformer models is limited although the models can accurately represent the transformers. To address this concern, a novel approach utilizing Machine Learning (ML) to identify the core aspect ratios of the three-limb core-type transformer is introduced. The proposed approach, using only the voltage and …

Cultivation Of A Commercially Important Macroalga (Ulva Sp) For Polyculture Research In Coastal Georgia, Kyle Mundy

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

The Georgia coast has shown great potential for large-scale oyster aquaculture, and the rate at which the sector has grown demands implementation of novel techniques to ensure sustainability and success in the face of climate change. One practice – integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) or polyculture – is known to have positive effects on the health and quality of farmed organisms and the surrounding environment through low pH/alkalinity amelioration, while also being a unique and viable way for a farming operation to diversify its products. To date, there has been no such attempt at investigating or demonstrating macroalgae culture in Georgia. …

Aggressive And Non-Aggressive Behaviors In Mixed And Non-Mixed Dorymyrmex Smithi And Dorymyrmex Bureni Colonies Of Southeastern Georgia, Usa, Renee K. Nowicki

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Dorymyrmex species, ‘pyramid’ or ‘cone’ ants, are Dolichoderines distributed across North America. Two relatively well-studied species, Dorymyrmex smithi and Dorymyrmex bureni, are commonly found throughout southeastern Georgia. These species are part of a socially parasitic relationship while simultaneously having starkly different colony structures. Dorymyrmex smithi is a polydomous, polygynous species with colonies that are often expansive, at times having hundreds to thousands of nests per colony. Dorymyrmex smithi is a temporary social parasite of D. bureni, a monodomous, monogynous species. The specific mechanism of this parasitism is currently unknown. Preliminary behavioral assay data from a limited number of …

The De Rham Cohomology Of A Lie Group Modulo A Dense Subgroup, Brant Clark

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Let $H$ be a dense subgroup of a Lie group $G$ with Lie algebra $\LG$. We show that the (diffeological) de Rham cohomology of $G/H$ equals the Lie algebra cohomology of $\LG/\LH$, where $\LH$ is the ideal \mbox{$\{Z\in\LG:\e{tZ}\in H \text{ for all } t\in\RR\}$}

Testing Differential Predation As A Mechanism Of Color Polymorphism In A Cryptic Lizard., Justin A. Sanclemente

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Selection via predation is a strong evolutionary force on small organisms, producing unique phenotypic adaptations. In cryptic species, different populations may exhibit color polymorphisms to better match multiple substrates or backgrounds. Here, I conducted a clay model study in the Ocala National Forest of Florida (USA) to test predation as a selective mechanism for color polymorphism in the Florida scrub lizard (Sceloporus woodi). Clay models were constructed to resemble light and dark morphs of S. woodi and placed on contrasting substrates in longleaf pine and Florida scrub stands. It is hypothesized Florida Scrub Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) …

Stability Analysis Of Vertical Industrial Pressure Vessel Resting On Load Cells Subjected To A Seismic Load., Kameron W. Nez

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Instability of structures, such as large vertical pressure vessels, is always an issue under the seismic load. In this current work, the acceleration that causes instability for a vertical pressure vessel has been determined experimentally using scaled models. This instability is caused by the tipping of the tall structure that is not completely fixed to the ground. This method is applied for three different sizes of pressure vessels, representing 50 CuFt to 1100 CuFt full scale models. These experimental results are compared with theoretical models. Using dimensional analysis, the accelerations that will cause the instability in the actual full-size models …

Numerical Modeling Of Thermal Runaway In Lithium-Ion Batteries Using Decomposition Kinetics And Inter-Cell Contact Resistance, Shehzad Khan

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are central in numerous high-demand applications due to their high energy density and prolonged cycle life. Despite these advantages, their susceptibility to thermal runaway (TR) poses a significant safety risk, with the potential for catastrophic failures. This study focuses on the thermal behavior of prismatic lithium-ion cells, using a finite volume-based partial differential equation (PDE) solver developed in MATLAB and JULIA to model TR behavior. This solver accurately simulates transient behaviors, convection, diffusion, and source terms across various coordinate systems. By engaging in a series of increasing complex case studies, this research aims to identify the critical …

Inside Out: The Effects Of Water Quality And Stocking Density On Oyster Aquaculture In Georgia, Alexandra B. Raduege

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Oyster growing is one of the oldest known forms of aquaculture, but this ancient practice has only recently entered Georgia’s waters on a commercial scale. With any burgeoning industry, many questions need to be answered to maximize productivity. In the case of oyster aquaculture, growers must maximize both economic and ecological productivity for the long-term success of the industry. Water quality is of particular concern for the health and wellbeing of cultured oysters with the possibility that certain husbandry decisions made by oyster growers could adversely affect the growth and condition of their oysters. This study examines the influence of …

Concentration Effects Of Ytterbium(Iii) Ions On The Physical, Structural, Thermal, And Optical Properties Of Barium Phosphate Glasses, Richard Amesimenu

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Ytterbium(III)-doped glasses are widely known for their application in near-infrared (NIR) lasers and nowadays attract attention for solar spectral conversion in photovoltaic cells. In this study, the effects of ytterbium(III) concentration on the physical, structural, optical, and thermal characteristics of Yb-doped phosphate glasses were investigated. The glasses were synthesized using the melt-quenching technique with nominal compositions of 50P₂O₅:(50 – xBaO):xYb₂O₃ (x = 0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 and 4 mol%). The properties were then examined by density and related parameters, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform-infrared …

Detecting Bearing Race Defects With Inductive Magnetic Reluctance Sensors And Artificial Neural Networks, Collin Daly

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

This work proposes a method of detecting physical damage to bearing races in a rotational assembly by means of magnetic reluctance sensors generating a signal from a rotating gear-tooth wheel. A nominally sinusoidal signal is generated based on the rotation of a gearwheel with regularly spaced voids and lands. Detection is based on the time variance of the signal periodically in relation to the gearwheel and the bearing damage. The purpose of this work is to propose a process to detect and classify bearing race defects using existing sensors and neural networks for hazardous area equipment applications.

Investigating Flash Flood Occurrence Using Negative Binomial Models In Maryland, United States Of America, Zainab O. Akinsemoyin

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Globally, as extreme weather patterns intensify, flash floods have emerged as one of the most destructive and immediate environmental threats. In Maryland, flash floods are particularly concerning due to its diverse topography and increasing urban development, which exacerbates runoff and overwhelms drainage systems. The state has experienced significant flash flood events, highlighting the need for effective models to manage risks and inform mitigation strategies. While regression models such as the Negative Binomial (NB) and Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial (ZINB) are commonly used for count data analysis, their application to flash flood modeling in the USA, including regions like Maryland, remains limited …

To What Extent Does Lighting Affect Students’ Preference For Seating In The Georgia Southern University Henderson Library?, Hailey M. Hawkins

Honors College Theses

This study highlights the importance of lighting in academic library spaces, specifically in relation to students' seating choices and overall experience. The research is significant as it emphasizes the role that environmental factors can play in creating a conducive learning environment for students. The study utilized a mixed-methods approach, which combines quantitative and qualitative data collection methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of students' lighting preferences. The quantitative data collected through open observations and the use of a light meter provided insights into the relationship between lighting and seating choices. The qualitative data collected through questionnaires helped to understand the …

Bridging The Gap: An Analysis Of Elementary Literacy Instruction, And Proposed Solutions To Exponentiate Literacy Skills, Avery E. Gray

Honors College Theses

The reading achievement gap is generally identified as the increasing disparity between higher-level students and lower-level students within the same grade or school level. Student data presented in the form of secondary reading assessment scores were analyzed for the state of Georgia, as well as nationally, for student achievement regarding reading skills in public schools from grades 3-5. Interviews conducted with educational professionals were conducted to reveal anecdotal manifestations of what the presented data looks like in terms of student ability, and how the teaching practice has reacted to such manifestations. The evaluation of these consistencies and explanations given to …

Using Pose Estimation Software To Predict Actions In Sabre Fencing, Micah Edwin Peters Ii

Honors College Theses

Fencing is a combat sport that uses three different swords: epee, foil, and sabre. Due to its fast-paced nature and employment of right of way, sabre fencing is often considered the most difficult of the three to learn. Computer vision and pose estimation software can be used to lower the barrier of entry to sabre fencing by identifying the different actions in sabre fencing. This project focuses on using open-source software to design a program that can identify the sabre parries as well as the main sabre movements. This program could be used to help newer fencers and spectators better …

Counting Conjugates Of Colored Compositions, Jesus Omar Sistos Barron

Honors College Theses

The properties of n-color compositions have been studied parallel to those of regular compositions. The conjugate of a composition as defined by MacMahon, however, does not translate well to n-color compositions, and there is currently no established analogous concept. We propose a conjugation rule for cyclic n-color compositions. We also count the number of self-conjugates under these rules and establish a couple of connections between these and regular compositions.

The Effects Of School Autonomy On Student Achievement, Frank P. Kastl

Honors College Theses

This paper presents new evidence on the effects of school autonomy over personnel, budgeting, and curriculum on student achievement. I use the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) data, a survey and assessment of students and schools in over 80 countries along with panel data methods. The empirical findings suggest that a greater degree of autonomy over schooling decisions improves achievement in math, science, and reading. However, these improvements are most pronounced in more developed countries.

Investigating The Relationship Between Inherited Geologic Framework And Saltwater Intrusion On St. Catherines Island, Georgia, Juliet Talaber, Jacque Kelly, Robert Vance

Honors College Theses

Since the late 1800s, the oldest cities on the Georgia coast have been withdrawing water from the confined Floridan Aquifer System. As the population has grown, a cone of depression has formed extending from Savannah, GA to St. Catherines Island, GA, a barrier island 50 km southeast of Savannah. On St. Catherines Island, the cone of depression has reversed the lateral and horizontal groundwater flow gradients causing saltwater intrusion into the Upper Floridan Aquifer from the Lower Floridan Aquifer through joints, faults, or solution collapse features. Previous studies from the southern and central areas of the island have found evidence …

Effect Of Esol Co-Teacher Certification On Student Achievement In High School Core Content Areas In A Georgia Suburban School District, Megan Devoss, Robert A. Griffin, Diana Mindrila

Georgia Educational Researcher

This quantitative study investigated the relationship between ESOL co-teacher content certification and student achievement in secondary classrooms. The sample consisted of English Learners (ELs; N = 185) in a suburban district in Georgia. The study focused on three core content subjects: Algebra, Biology, and Economics. Content certification was verified through a state agency, and student achievement was assessed using Georgia Milestones test scores. A range of statistical tests, including descriptive and multilevel regression analyses, were employed to analyze the data. The results indicated that Milestones grade conversion scores were higher when teachers had dual certification (M = 65.63, SD …

Portraits Of A Rural Georgia High School Stem Program, Jonathan L. Garner, Gwen Scott Ruttencutter, Forrest R. Parker Iii

Georgia Educational Researcher

This research examined school personnel’s strategies and practices responsible for increasing student science proficiency at a certified rural high school STEM program. In the United States, difficulties have developed in adequately preparing students for careers in STEM sectors, especially in secondary education. This trend has led to increased difficulties for high school graduates competing globally for high-paying jobs. Rural schools have been especially susceptible to inadequately preparing their students academically. I used qualitative research portraiture to generate a mental image of the STEM program at the selected high school. I interviewed three teachers and two administrators in a certified rural …

Faculty Handbook, Georgia Southern University

Faculty Handbooks

No abstract provided.

Enabling Ai And Robotic Coaches For Physical Rehabilitation Therapy: Iterative Design And Evaluation With Therapists And Post-Stroke Survivors, Min Hun Lee, Daniel Siewiorek, Asim Smailagic, Alexandre Bernardino, Sergi Bermúdez I Badia

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic coaches promise the improved engagement of patients on rehabilitation exercises through social interaction. While previous work explored the potential of automatically monitoring exercises for AI and robotic coaches, the deployment of these systems remains a challenge. Previous work described the lack of involving stakeholders to design such functionalities as one of the major causes. In this paper, we present our efforts on eliciting the detailed design specifications on how AI and robotic coaches could interact with and guide patient’s exercises in an effective and acceptable way with four therapists and five post-stroke survivors. Through iterative …

Data-Driven Communicative Behaviour Generation: A Survey, Nurziya Oralbayeva, Amir Aly, Anara Sandygulova, Tony Belpaeme

School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

The development of data-driven behaviour generating systems has recently become the focus of considerable attention in the fields of human–agent interaction and human–robot interaction. Although rule-based approaches were dominant for years, these proved inflexible and expensive to develop. The difficulty of developing production rules, as well as the need for manual configuration to generate artificial behaviours, places a limit on how complex and diverse rule-based behaviours can be. In contrast, actual human–human interaction data collected using tracking and recording devices makes humanlike multimodal co-speech behaviour generation possible using machine learning and specifically, in recent years, deep learning. This survey provides …

The Effect Of Mere Presence Of Smartphone On Cognitive Functions: A Four-Level Meta-Analysis, Andree Hartanto, Verity Y. Q. Lua, K. T. A. Sandeeshwara Kasturiratna, Paye Shin Koh, Germaine Y. Q. Tng, Manmeet Kaur, Frosch Y. X. Quek, Jonathan L. Chia, Nadyanna M. Majeed

Research Collection School of Social Sciences

As smartphones have become portable and immersive devices that afford social, informational, and recreational conveniences unbounded by physical restrictions, most daily activities have become closely intertwined with the presence of smartphones. This constant presence of smartphones in daily activities, however, may be concerning as some studies have suggested that smartphones—even their mere presence—can be distracting and can impair cognitive outcomes. However, such findings have not been consistently observed. To reconcile mixed findings, the current meta-analysis synthesized 166 effect sizes drawn from 53 samples and 33 studies including 4,368 participants on the effect of mere presence of smartphone on cognitive functions. …

2024 Spring Commencement, Georgia Southern University

Commencement Programs

No abstract provided.

2024 Fall Commencement, Georgia Southern University

Commencement Programs

No abstract provided.

Mixed Debris Interaction With Obstacle Array Under Extreme Flood Conditions, Piyali Chowdhury, Indigo Jaie Fredericks, Jesus Castaño Alvarez, Matthew Clark, Ravindra Jayaratne, J. J. Wijetunge, Alison Raby, Paul Taylor

School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

This investigation explores the interactions of different shaped debris with an array of obstacles under subcritical flow conditions, representative of a flood associated with a storm surge or tsunami. Panels, blocks and cylinders were used in a flow channel, as analogues for house panels, cars/containers and trees respectively, whilst some tests used a mix of debris. The backwater effect due to the blockage caused by the obstacles was most (least) significant for panels (cylinders). There was some evidence that smaller key log types and higher flow rates led to smaller dams. It was also evident that key logs formed at …

Indigenous Practice And Community-Led Climate Change Solutions: The Relevance Of Traditional Cosmic Knowledge Systems, Rani Muthukrishnan, Ranjan Datta

All Faculty Scholarship (Archived)

This book centers Indigenous knowledge and practice in community-led climate change solutions.

This book will be one of the first academic books to use the consciousness framework to examine and explain humans' situatedness and role in maintaining ecosystems' health. Drawing on teachings from the Indigenous Adi-Shaiva community, the authors present up-to-date research on meanings and implications of South Asian traditional cosmic knowledge, which focuses on relationality and spirituality connected to climate change. This knowledge can create innovative climate change solutions in areas including land, water, traditional management, sustainability goals and expectations, and state development projects. Overall, this book provides an …