Digital Commons Network^™

The Effect Of Different Music Genres On Listeners' Emotions, Benjamin N. Rosenberg

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Music has been shown to have definitive effects on the emotions of listeners, but the effects of different genres of music have been less frequently studied. The purpose of this study was to examine three different genres of music (pop, metal, and EDM), and the different effects on listeners’ emotions that they would have. College students (n = 191), completed a questionnaire assessing genre preference and emotions, before listening to a selection of songs from one of the three genres. Afterwards, they reported their emotions once more. Metal music was found to cause an increase in negative emotions, while …

Autonomy, Motivation, And Creativity In The Visual Art Room: An Educational Criticism And Exploratory Case Study Of A Tab Studio, Deborah G. Canoura

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Within the bounds of an exploratory case study, educational criticism was used to explore the closed ecosystem of an art classroom. Utilizing the method of teaching known as the Teaching for Artistic Behavior method as it relates to student experiences regarding creativity, autonomy, motivation, engagement, and the development of the student and teacher within the TAB methodology were studied. The impact on student growth, creativity, motivation, and engagement was seen consistently across demographics and throughout each research collection method. This research includes the collection and analysis of observations, teacher interviews, and artifacts, collection to understand the teacher’s perceptions of students …

Gender Equity: The Perception Of Career Advancement In Higher Education, Whitney K. Washington

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Women have made many strides in many industries, yet a gendered leadership gap still exists. On many college and university campuses, women are the top degree earners, but they are not represented in executive leadership roles in higher education. The purpose of this quantitative study is to examine university staff perception of career advancement by investigating how independent variables—demographics, challenges and barriers, diversity management, career planning, work-life balance, and pay—are related to the dependent variable—careeradvancement. The study explores the perception of career advancement as a factor that may explain the gendered leadership gap. This study answers the following research questions: …

GröBner Bases With An Application To Tame Functions, Jessica D. Marconi

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Grobner bases are essential tools in algebraic geometry, used to simplify and solve systems of polynomial equations. These bases revolutionized computational methods in various branches of mathematics after being introduced in 1965 by Bruno Buchberger. This thesis explores the foundational concepts of Grobner bases, including their formation and properties. It also demonstrates their use in solving mathematical problems in algebraic geometry, including the ideal membership problem. As an application, we show how Grobner bases can be used to determine whether a polynomial mapping is tame. This concept is crucial for analyzing the topology near singular points and establishing whether a …

Robotic Gas Source Localization And Distribution Mapping Via Deep Reinforcement Learning, Iliya Kulbaka

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

This research aims to advance the fields of Gas Source Localization (GSL) and Gas Distribution Mapping (GDM) by developing deep reinforcement learning (DRL) methodologies suitable for complex, real-world environments. GSL and GDM are crucial for applications such as environmental monitoring, hazardous material detection, and search-and-rescue missions, where safe and efficient exploration is essential. Traditional methods often fall short in dynamic settings influenced by factors like wind and obstacles. To address these limitations, this study proposes novel neural network architectures and learning frameworks for adaptive exploration and mapping, integrating Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) layers, and Deep Q-Networks …

A Method For Investigation Of Small-Scale Morphologic Change Around Low Crested Oyster-Based Structures, Makaya S. Malila

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

In recent years, a novel method for shoreline stabilization, Pervious Oyster Shell Habitat (POSH) units, comprised of recycled eastern oyster shells, has been developed. These mound-shaped structures have been deployed along several shoreline sites in Northeast Florida. This case study sought to develop and implement a method for investigation of small-scale morphologic change in the vicinity of these structures using smartphone LiDAR technology, surveying instruments, and 2D/3D mapping software. Results suggest that the POSH units are helping to mitigate erosion by trapping sediments around them. Moving forward, it may be possible to adapt the methodology used here to assess morphologic …

Florida Queer K12 Teachers Perceptions Of School Climate Under “Don’T Say Gay”, Katherine E. Foley

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Florida's newest legislation leaves many Florida queer teachers feeling marginalized and unprotected in the classroom (Block, 2022). The “Parental Rights in Education” Bill (FL HB 1557 and FL HB 1069), infamously renamed “Don’t Say Gay”, was created ostensibly to help protect parental rights and choices in education. The new law prohibits the discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation in kindergarten through twelfth grade classrooms. “Don’t Say Gay” provides vague guidelines for queer teachers on approaching topics like sexual orientation and gender identity. Despite the evidence that queer teachers who are open and honest about their identity often find themselves …

An Enhanced Evaluation Of Bioslurry For Use In Coastal Erosion Mitigation, Megan Elizabeth Dunton

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

This paper discusses the treatment of Florida beach sand by surface percolating Bioslurry, a microbially-induced calcite precipitation (MICP) variant that was developed and refined in recent years. Researchers examined how variations in pore volume and surface area affected the cemented depth of soil treated via surface percolation. Results suggested that while the pore volume is an important factor that governs cementation in soil treated via surface percolation, it does not appear to be the only controlling factor and treatment volume per unit surface area is another important factor to consider when treating soil with Bioslurry using surface percolation. The implications …

The Effects Of Human-Driven Land Use Change On American Alligator (Alligator Mississippiensis) Nesting Patterns, Madison Wallwork

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) have received little scientific attention in the context of human-driven land use change. The goal of my study is to investigate how land use change may be affecting the spatial ecology of alligator nesting in Florida. Areas directly impacted by humans are growing rapidly in Florida, yet the impacts of this land use change on alligator populations and reproduction are largely unknown. Alligators are ecosystem engineers and apex predators, and their nests often double as nests for other reptilian species. Therefore, it is imperative that we understand how human-driven land use change may be impacting …

Xenophobia, The Global War On Terror, And Refugee Policy In The United States, Canada, And Western Europe, Chloe Lopez

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Xenophobia has oscillated in intensity in the United States, Canada, and Western Europe since the late eighteenth century. This pattern of fear of immigrants and refugees being harbingers of violence and criminal activity establishes itself throughout the modern history of the United States, Canada, and Western Europe despite much evidence to the contrary. In the twentieth century, the prevailing argument surrounding the creation of xenophobia centered around economics. This divergence from twenty-first century patterns can be attributed to the Global War on Terror increasing alienation of refugees and immigrants through mythmaking and the structural securitization of immigration in the United …

Investigating The Role Of Tesserae In Energy Absorption In Shark Cartilage, Molly Dobrow

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Unlike mammals, shark endoskeletons are composed of cartilage, which is less stiff compared to bone. Despite this structural disadvantage, sharks have risen to become apex predators, with reported maximum posterior bite force estimates approximating 5914 N in bull sharks. Shark jaws are estimated to undergo high cycle loading within the organism’s lifecycle without evidence of failure. Fatigue resistance may relate to mineral distribution within a component of the endoskeletal system – tesserae. Tesserae are thin, roughly hexagonal tiles composed of calcium phosphate hydroxyapatite (HA) crystals and grow by accretion to eventually surround the hyaline cartilage core. Though tesserae dimensions are …

Power Of Partnership: The Effects Of Parent Training In Aided-Language Input On The Use Of Core Vocabulary Boards In The Homes Of Preschool Children: A Program Evaluation, Stephanie Jean Smith

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems play a crucial role in enhancing communication, language development, and learning for children with complex communication needs (CCN). Research suggests that AAC can significantly improve interaction with communication partners and mitigate risks in various developmental areas such as functional communication skills, speech, social engagement, and academic participation.

Early intervention is paramount for children with CCN to foster speech and language development, enabling them to express needs, interact socially, and lay the groundwork for future language skills. Introducing AAC systems early on and ensuring frequent exposure are essential for natural integration. Parents and caregivers must …

Mackinlay Kantor: The Tangled Past Of A Once-Famous Author, Roy R. Behrens

Faculty Publications

No abstract provided.

Psychological Traits And Public Attitudes Towards Abortion: The Role Of Empathy, Locus Of Control, And Need For Cognition, Jiuqing Cheng, Ping Xu, Chloe Thostenson

Faculty Publications

In the summer of 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the historic Roe v. Wade ruling, prompting various states to put forth ballot measures regarding state-level abortion rights. While earlier studies have established associations between demographics, such as religious beliefs and political ideologies, and attitudes toward abortion, the current research delves into the role of psychological traits such as empathy, locus of control, and need for cognition. A sample of 294 U.S. adults was obtained via Amazon Mechanical Turk, and participants were asked to provide their attitudes on seven abortion scenarios. They also responded to scales measuring empathy toward the …

Organic Hazes As A Source Of Life’S Building Blocks To Warm Little Ponds On The Hadean Earth, Ben K.D. Pearce, Sarah M. Hörst, Joshua A. Sebree, Chao He

Faculty Publications

Over 4 billion years ago, Earth is thought to have been a hazy world akin to Saturn’s moon Titan. The organic hazes in the atmosphere at this time could have contained a vast inventory of life’s building blocks and thus may have seeded warm little ponds for life. In this work, we produce organic hazes in the lab in atmospheres with high (5%) and low (0.5%) CH4 abundances and analyze the solid particles for nucleobases, amino acids, and a few other organics using GC/MS/MS to obtain their concentrations. We also analyze heated (200°C) samples from the high methane organic haze …

Pressure Induced Modification Of Electronic And Magnetic Properties Of Mncrnbal And Mncrtaal, Brandon Schmidt, Paul M. Shand, Parashu Kharel, Pavel V. Lukashev

Faculty Publications

Spin-gapless semiconductor (SGS) is a new class of material that has been studied recently for potential applications in spintronics. This material behaves as an insulator for one spin channel, and as a gapless semiconductor for the opposite spin. In this work, we present results of a computational study of two quaternary Heusler alloys, MnCrNbAl and MnCrTaAl that have been recently reported to exhibit spin-gapless semiconducting electronic structure. In particular, using density functional calculations we analyze the effect of external pressure on electronic and magnetic properties of these compounds. It is shown that while these two alloys exhibit nearly SGS behavior …

Sefer Yosippon As A Source For Hasmonean History: The Mysterious Story Of John Hyrcanus And The Parthians, Kenneth Atkinson

Faculty Publications

No abstract provided.

Exploring The Behavioural And Neural Bases Of Impulsivity In A Transdiagnostic Approach Relevant For Addiction., Kenza Kadri

School of Psychology Theses

This thesis aims to investigate the behavioural and neural basis of impulsivity, which is known to be a risk factor in the development of psychiatric disorders such as addiction. To tackle this issue, the thesis uses neuroimaging, behavioural, and machine-learning techniques to identify transdiagnostic markers of impulsivity and their relationship with striatal connectivity and decision-making variability. This thesis was divided into two studies. The first one aims to associate a set of transdiagnostic markers relevant to addiction with the connectivity profiles of the striatum, which is known to be implicated in processes of reward, motivation, and decision-making. In particular, this …

Exploring Cognitive And Neural Substrates Of Search And Foraging Behaviour Across The Lifespan: From Younger To Older Adults, Sarah Salo

School of Psychology Theses

Research suggests that search and foraging behaviours serve as valuable markers for pathological ageing. However, existing tasks have been limited to two-dimensional settings, neglecting additional cues and reference frames. To address this gap, a comprehensive plan of research was developed to establish a new three-dimensional paradigm, drawing from and integrating search traditions with foraging principles. This paradigm was then tested with older adults alongside neuropsychological profiling. Across seven experiments, this thesis investigates whether the neural and cognitive foundations of search and foraging behaviour can be predicted using a large-scale immersive virtual reality (VR) task, exploring the essential roles of executive …

'A Knock At The Door': A Memoir With A Supplemental Dissertation About Its Craft In The Context Of Alan Bennett's 'The Lady In The Van' And Lemn Sissay's 'My Name Is Why', Robert Parsons

School of Law, Humanities and Social Sciences Theses

My project has two elements: a memoir, titled 'A Knock at the Door', and a critical dissertation.On December 23rd, 1975, Ronnie, a homeless man who had spent the majority of his childhood in care and had educational challenges, knocked on our door. At that time, I was a young lawyer and had been married for four years. I invited him in; my wife and I gave him a meal and offered that he stay the night. He never left. He died in September 2020 having lived with us for forty-five years. During that time, we had children, brought them up …

Co-Production Of Health And Social Science Research With Vulnerable Children And Young People: A Rapid Review, Jo Erwin, Lorna Burns, Urshla Devalia, Robert Witton, Jill Shawe, Hannah Wheat, Nick Axford, Janine Doughty, Sarah Kaddour, Abigail Nelder, Paul Brocklehurst, Skye Boswell, Martha Paisi

Peninsula Dental School

BACKGROUND: The term 'care-experienced' refers to anyone who is currently in care or has been in care at any stage in their life. A complex interplay of factors leads to care-experienced children and young people (CECYP) experiencing poorer oral health and access to dental care than their peers. A rapid review of the co-production of health and social care research with vulnerable children and young people (CYP) was carried out to inform the development of a co-produced research project exploring the oral health behaviours and access to dental services of CECYP. Here, 'co-production' refers to the involvement of CYP in …

The Importance Of Endrew: Analyzing The Influence Of A New Legal Precedent In Pennsylvania Due Process Hearing Officer Decisions Before And After Covid-19 Closures, David H. Rush

Journal of Human Services: Training, Research, and Practice

In 2017, a new standard for determining substantive violations of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was established with the ruling for Endrew F. v. Douglas County School District. Recently, the United States Department of Education and State Education Agencies have cited the Endrew decision as being important in defining what constitutes a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) under the IDEA, in light of mandated school closures due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Despite its noted importance, there has been limited analysis into how this new legal precedent has influenced special education due process hearing officer decisions. …

Mental Health Practitioners’ Trauma Knowledge And Self-Efficacy Post-Emdr Training, Christy R. Collins, Shelby L. Dean, Jose Carbajal

Journal of Human Services: Training, Research, and Practice

This research study examines mental health practitioners’ level of trauma knowledge and trauma treatment self-efficacy pre- and post-EMDR therapy training in Texas. The purpose is to determine if practitioners' self-perception of efficacy in treating trauma and trauma knowledge will improve after completing EMDR training. The practitioner sample (N = 113) is from an EMDR trainer who conducted six EMDR trainings in Texas. Descriptive, correlational, and paired t-test statistical procedures were implemented to analyze the data for the study. The results show that practitioners’ self-perception of competence and knowledge could be attributed to their years of clinical experience treating clients with …

Describing The Experiences Of Fulfillment And Stress In Coptic Orthodox Priests, Dr. Martha Salama

Journal of Human Services: Training, Research, and Practice

This qualitative study was conducted to understand how Coptic Orthodox priests describe their experiences of fulfillment and/or stress with their work. While many Christian leaders such as pastors, reverends, and clergy helping to serve their church members are represented in the literature, there is limited research on the roles and experiences of the Coptic Orthodox priesthood serving their communities. The Coptic church has been around for centuries, and the church has a history of religious persecution. The research question was “how do Coptic Orthodox priests describe their experiences of fulfillment and/or stress with their work?” The research methodology used in …

Adjustments To Social Work Practice During The Covid-19 Pandemic In North Carolina: Effects On Burnout And Commitment, Aaron R. Brown, Jayme E. Walters, Aubrey E. Jones, Lara Cates

Journal of Human Services: Training, Research, and Practice

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for social workers in the U.S. and abroad has increased. There is demand for more social workers in North Carolina due to ongoing and increasing mental health, substance use disorder, and child welfare needs. COVID-19 has taken a toll on the personal and professional lives of social workers, and research is needed to understand the pandemic’s effects on burnout and commitment among social workers. The present study sought to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the personal and professional lives of social workers practicing in North Carolina and to determine how …

Understanding The Addiction Recovery Experience: The Use Of Experiential Learning In Undergraduate Human Services, Chaniece J. Winfield, Jason M. Sawyer

Journal of Human Services: Training, Research, and Practice

Since 2020, the steady rise of overdose and substance use related deaths has created an ongoing need for a greater addiction workforce. Responding to this need, Human Service education programs are strongly encouraged to prepare competent professionals to work in recovery-oriented treatment settings. Research supports experiential learning to foster clinical competency, however its application toward SAMSHA transdisciplinary foundations in human service education is limited or unknown. The authors present an exploration of the use of experiential learning as a teaching tool to foster student competency toward the SAMSHA core transdisciplinary foundations of application to practice and professional readiness.

The Reno Court Of Inquiry, Albert Winkler

Faculty Publications

Following the Battle of the Little Big Horn, there had been many accusations of poor conduct, neglect of duty, or outright cowardice leveled chiefly at both Major Marcus Reno and Captain Frederick Benteen for their actions or inactions at the engagement, which could have led to the destruction of Custer's command. Most significantly, Frederick Whittaker's attack on Reno and Benteen in his A Complete Life of Gen. George Armstrong Custer published in December 1876 was simply scathing.

Intermittent Digital Fasting: The Mental Health Benefits Of A One-Hour Daily Social Media Hiatus, Austin Lahue, James Gaskin, Kennedy Daniel

Faculty Publications

In an era where social media ubiquity persists, concerns over its impact on mental health have escalated. This preliminary study investigates the effects of a one-hour daily social media hiatus on the mental wellbeing of 60 college students over two weeks. Unlike common interventions demanding prolonged abstinence, this research explores a more feasible, short-term avoidance approach. The experimental design, including treatment and control groups, illuminates the potential mental health benefits of brief, yet regular, digital disengagements. Preliminary results suggest that even minimal breaks from social media can yield significant improvements in users' mental health. Interestingly, these benefits come not from …

A Journey From Univariate To Multivariate Functional Time Series: A Comprehensive Review, Hossein Haghbin, Mehdi Maadooliat

Mathematical and Statistical Science Faculty Research and Publications

Functional time series (FTS) analysis has emerged as a potent framework for modeling and forecasting time-dependent data with functional attributes. In this comprehensive review, we navigate through the intricate landscape of FTS methodologies, meticulously surveying the core principles of univariate FTS and delving into the nuances of multivariate FTS. The journey commences with an exploration of the foundational aspects of univariate FTS analysis. We delve into representation, estimation, and modeling, spotlighting the effectiveness of various parametric and nonparametric models at our disposal. The stage then transitions to multivariate FTS analysis, where we confront the intricacies posed by high-dimensional data. We …

Maximizing The Number Of H-Colorings Of Graphs With A Fixed Minimum Degree, John Engbers

Mathematical and Statistical Science Faculty Research and Publications

For graphs G and H, an H-coloring of G is an adjacency-preserving map from the vertex set of G to the vertex set of H.