Digital Commons Network^™

There Fly The Crows, Daniel R. Adler

Theses and Dissertations

Where there is a corpse, there fly the crows. —Netherlandish Proverb

Age And Sex Dependency Of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Progression In A Mouse Model Of Marfan Syndrome, Nazli Gharraee

Theses and Dissertations

Aneurysm of the ascending aorta is the most common type of thoracic aortic aneurysm, and it is a life-threatening manifestation of Marfan syndrome (MFS), a connective tissue disorder caused by mutation of the FBN1 gene. Incidence of Marfan syndrome is similar for men and women; however, men suffer from more severe aortic events compared to women.

This study aims to provide a better understanding of age and sex dependency of cell and extracellular matrix alterations of the aortic wall during the progression of the aneurysm caused by Marfan syndrome. To achieve this goal, the C1041G/+ mouse model of Marfan syndrome …

The Determinants And Consequences Of Foreign Direct Investment, Alexandra Dinu Troidl

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation examines the regional economic effects of foreign direct investment (FDI). FDI is known to have benefits for both national and regional economies. These benefits include an increasing number of higher paying jobs, productivity spillovers for local firms, and elevated economic development (SelectUSA, 2020). Many governments compete to attract large FDI projects, often through the use of controversial incentive packages. Incentives are criticized because it is not clear that they affect the location of FDI and furthermore, whether the benefit of incentives outweigh the costs (Bartik, 2018).

In the first paper, I assess the impact of incentives on the …

Military Communities And Natural Hazards In The United States, Logan Lee

Theses and Dissertations

The vulnerability and resilience of communities to hazards is a concept that has gained traction in the research community in recent decades. Climate change, combined with increasing damages from natural hazards, has energized researchers and practitioners alike to identify the risks to people and places from future losses. Military communities support large military bases and are composed of service members, their families, and civilian populations alike. Due to the presence of military installations and military populations, the characteristics of the population and influences in military communities are unique. However, there is a gap in current research to assess whether the …

Sparse Modeling For Predicting Class Assignments For Trace Forensic Evidence, Dayla Christine Rich

Theses and Dissertations

Numerous disciplines in forensic science utilize various types of spectral data when analyzing evidence. Spectral techniques are particularly critical for the analysis of trace evidence, as these methods are normally non-destructive. Preserving evidence, especially trace evidence, is of high priority in a forensic laboratory setting. Once a piece of evidence has been fully consumed, no more analyses can be performed. Typically, visual comparison, or spectral overlay, is performed to compare questioned samples (evidence) to standards or knowns. However, such an approach may not be optimal in distinguishing the subtle, yet highly important, discriminating characteristics present in the spectra. As statistical …

Rehabilitation Of Timber Piles Using Fiber Reinforced Polymers Analyzed With Acoustic Emission, Rebekah Marie Krol

Theses and Dissertations

Assessing the current state of infrastructure and implementing strengthening or rehabilitation methods on old or damaged members is important to ensure safety and longevity of structures. Non-destructive testing is an important tool for localizing and characterizing damage in structures, especially structures that are more susceptible to damage because of age or environment. In addition to locating inadequate members, it is essential to have a repair technique in place so that the structure can continue to be used in a safe manner.

This study aims to review the use of acoustic emission for evaluating damage obtained in timber piles subjected to …

Effects Of Personal Fm System Use During Phonological Awareness Instruction For Children At Risk For Dyslexia, Gabriella Rose Reynolds

Theses and Dissertations

Students with reading impairments, including dyslexia, account for the largest proportion of students receiving special education services in the United States (NCES, 2016). Developmental dyslexia is characterized by slow and inaccurate word decoding (Lyon et al., 2003). This word decoding difficulty results from deficits in phonological awareness, a sound-based skill (Swan & Goswami, 1997). Classrooms are known to have high levels of background noise and are inconsistent with recommendations for optimal listening (Picard & Bradley, 2001) or accepted standards (ASHA, n.d.). Furthermore, degraded acoustic conditions have been related to poorer performance on speech-recognition tasks even for children with normal hearing …

Improving Access To Teacher Mentors For Black Students: The Mediating Role Of School Safety, Anna Flitner

Theses and Dissertations

Having a teacher mentor is associated with several positive outcomes, yet teacher mentors are not distributed evenly among youth, and children who are Black are substantially less likely to form mentoring relationships with teachers. In this study I tested a putative explanatory hypothesis for differences between Black and White children’s access to teacher mentors. Data from Waves I and III from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health were used. Linear regression models were used to predict the access to teacher mentors and a mediational analysis was conducted to determine the effect of school safety on the relationship between race …

A Culture Of Control: Progressive Era Eugenics In South Carolina As A Continuation Of Created White Supremacy, Hannah Nicole Patton

Theses and Dissertations

This work examines the evolution of eugenic ideology in South Carolina during the Progressive Era by following relevant discussions published in The State newspaper. Between 1891 and 1939, The State newspaper provided a platform for discussions about eugenic ideology to be disseminated to the general public. Through eugenics the white portion of the South Carolina population saw a way to retain white supremacy and create better progeny. An examination of The State reveals a network of discussions that reached across South Carolina, the United States, as well as Western Europe. The existence of newspaper articles illustrates cultural integration in the …

A Unified Approach To Estimating The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient And Its Bias: An Exploratory Study, Kelvin Terrell Pompey

Theses and Dissertations

Many methods are used to measure interrater reliability for studies where each target receives ratings by a different set of judges. The purpose of this study is to explore the use of hierarchical linear modeling for estimating interrater reliability using the intraclass correlation coefficient. This study provides a description of how the ICC can be estimated using hierarchical linear modeling, recommends an appropriate non-parametric bootstrapping method, illustrates how both can be implemented to obtain a point estimate and an estimate of bias, and explores the viability of using these statistical tools to obtain such estimates. Results indicated that hierarchical linear …

A Case Study Exploring Student Engagement With Technology As Measured By The Arcs And Samr Models, Kyle Ashley Wilson

Theses and Dissertations

This action research case study describes how varying the levels and format of technology integration into high school social studies classroom lessons impact students’ motivation to learn and how the teacher’s effort to support student motivation through the integration of technology supports student achievement. This research study was grounded in the conceptual framework that motivating and engaging students in the classroom (with the introduction of technology) can be very difficult. This study seeks to determine the relationship between student engagement and motivation as classroom lessons are moved along the different levels of the SAMR model, which stands for substitution, augmentation, …

Investigating The Dynamic Interactions Of Rapidly Growing Precocial Shorebird Chicks, Luke R. Wilde

Theses and Dissertations

Organisms in dynamic environments must continually reassess the cost-benefit trade-offs of their interactions and adjust their behaviors accordingly. Nevertheless, ecological research often takes a ‘snapshot’ approach to studying interactions across sample locations and timepoints. Investigating ecological interactions in this way can miss important information about the influence spatiotemporal context has on the scale and direction of their effects. Longitudinal studies that follow individuals can elucidate how changing contexts affect an individual’s ecology while deepening our understanding of adaptive behavior. However, determining how context influences the effect of an interaction requires it be measured across a range of spatiotemporal conditions. Studying …

Deep Learning Based Sound Event Detection And Classification, Alireza Nasiri

Theses and Dissertations

Hearing sense has an important role in our daily lives. During the recent years, there has been many studies to transfer this capability to the computers. In this dissertation, we design and implement deep learning based algorithms to improve the ability of the computers in recognizing the different sound events.

In the first topic, we investigate sound event detection, which identifies the time boundaries of the sound events in addition to the type of the events. For sound event detection, we propose a new method, AudioMask, to benefit from the object-detection techniques in computer vision. In this method, we convert …

Measurement Of N* Cross-Sections From Single-Pion Electroproduction At Low Q^2, Nicholas Scoville Tyler

Theses and Dissertations

Measurements of nucleon electroexcitation resonance cross-sections give unique insight into the dynamics of the strong interaction and our knowledge of Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD). The analysis of exclusive electroproduction data is an important tool in understanding the structure of the nucleon and its excited states. Exclusive channels give a clear way to extract the desired resonant contributions from non-resonant contributions. A gap in the helicity amplitudes extracted from single-pion cross-section data exists for virtual photon momentum transfers ($Q^2$) in the range of $1-2~\mathrm{GeV}^{2}$. Using data collected by the CEBAF Large Acceptance Spectrometer (CLAS) detector with a beam energy of $4.8~\mathrm{GeV}$, the …

Effect Of Oxidative Stress On Lifespan And Cellular Survival, Benedicth Onyeka Ukhueduan

Theses and Dissertations

When cells experience oxidative stress, the integrated stress response (ISR) signaling pathway is activated. One of the first outcomes of such ISR-activated response is to temporarily halt protein synthesis, which aids in cellular recovery. However, if cells cannot recover from the stress, they activate the cell death pathways which kills the affected cells, usually by apoptosis, which can then lead to either acquisition or prevention of diseases depending on the situation. In physiological aging, a compromised stress response is observed as an organism ages, which leads to disrupted homeostasis and elevated risk of disease. Thus, longevity of an organism is …

Examination Of Energy Needs And Female Athlete Triad Components In Competitive Cheerleaders, Allison Smith

Theses and Dissertations

The sport of cheerleading has grown immensely over the recent decades. The current sport requires full body athletic abilities like gymnastics, ballet, and swimming and diving. These sports have previously reported high rates of eating disorder (ED) risk, body image dissatisfaction, and Female Athlete Triad (Triad) components (low energy availability with or without and eating disorder, menstrual cycle dysfunction, and low bone mineral density). Scientific research examining these factors within cheerleaders has been limited. The purpose of this study was to examine overall ED risk across cheerleading team type (All-Star, college), squad type (all-girl, coed), and by position (flyer, base, …

Raman Spectroscopy Using A Monolithic Spatial Heterodyne Raman Spectrometer For Planetary Exploration, Abigail M. Waldron

Theses and Dissertations

Raman spectroscopy is a vibrational technique that provides detailed molecular and structural information for organic and inorganic molecules and minerals, and is uniquely suited for spacecraft applications, in the search for chemical indicators of life. This is why NASA sent two Raman spectrometers to Mars on the Mars 2020 Perseverance rover, as part of the SuperCam and SHERLOC instruments. The Raman spectrometers on Perseverance are conventional dispersive instruments that have been engineered to survive the harsh conditions of spaceflight. Future missions could benefit from smaller, more robust designs, especially missions to the Jovian planets, Jupiter and Saturn, their moons, asteroids …

Applications And Mechanisms Of Near Infrared Spectroscopy For Age Estimation In Otoliths Of Red Snapper Lutjanus Campechanus, Michelle S. Passerotti

Theses and Dissertations

Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a light spectroscopy method useful for non-invasively discriminating and quantifying chemical composition of a wide variety of substances. Recently-developed applications of NIRS to fish age estimation across a range of taxa have sparked intense interest in exploring the feasibility of its use for rapid age estimation in fisheries population management. In this pursuit, development of species-specific calibration models relating traditionally-derived age estimates (i.e., those estimated from growth band counts) to NIR spectral signatures from ageing structures is required to derive predictive models that can then estimate age from rapid scans of whole ageing structures alone. …

Balance Check, Anne Louise Hilenski

Theses and Dissertations

This novel-length work of fiction seeks to explore the world of women’s elite gymnastics and the way it invites glory as much as it invites sacrifice, mental fortitude, physical pain, and suffering. When gymnast Rachel Wallerstein secures four gold medals at the World Championships a year before the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, her destiny as an American Olympic hero is preemptively written into the history books. What happens in the gym stays in the gym, but not for long, as the ever-present approach of the Olympics casts light on the cracks in her parents’ seemingly perfect marriage. On the …

Benefits Of Video Feedback On Low Performing Female Cadets In Physical Education: An Action Research Study, John Borman

Theses and Dissertations

Learning novel physical motor skills can be frustrating for some students. A lack of clear feedback further exacerbates the problem for students’ skill development. This study examined the benefits of using video recording as augmented feedback to inform motor skill development in an applied gymnastics course at a service academy. The primary aim was to identify the effects of video feedback on the instructor/student process for skill evaluation and skill improvement. The secondary aim was to examine at what degree does giving video feedback promote female student motivation to learn, use of deliberate practice, autonomy, and competence. This action research …

Student Perceptions Of Culturally Relevant Pedagogy And The Impact On Teacher-Student Relationships, Robert Louis Harris

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to explore how six eighth-grade Magnet Program students perceive their teacher-student relationship through the teacher’s use of culturally relevant pedagogy. This case study provided information that guides a classroom teacher in the implementation of culturally relevant pedagogy that helps develop and maintain teacher-student relationships. The resulting analysis and interpretation provided major themes that developed regarding the use of culturally relevant strategies in the classroom.

This study informs educators in the profession about the extent to which students perceptions impact their relationship with the teacher. Findings could be used by teachers and administrators to advocate …

The Motivational Impact Of A Digital Student Response Tool During Text-Dependent Writing Instruction In A Concurrent Middle School Classroom, Lisa Marie Cobb

Theses and Dissertations

While the Common Core State Standards initiated the instructional shift that promoted technology to achieve a student-centered, process-oriented blended reading and writing classroom, the COVID 19 pandemic demanded innovative technology applications in K-12 public schools. This qualitative, phenomenological action research study explored the motivational effects of a digital student response system tool used to facilitate reading and writing instruction in a seventh-grade ELA concurrent classroom. Overall, using a student response tool to facilitate the text-dependent writing process positively impacted students’ self-determination.

Incorporating a digital student response tool as a facet of a formative assessment system promoted the efficient use of …

An Orchestral Conductor’S Guide To The James/Daehler Edition Of The Hinrichs And Winkler Compilation Score To The 1925 Silent Film The Phantom Of The Opera, Hayden Richard Denesha

Theses and Dissertations

The performance of silent film scores with live screenings of silent films is an artform that is still enjoyed by 21st century audiences. One of the most frequently performed examples of this is The Phantom of the Opera (1925). In addition to being an iconic film in the history of Hollywood cinema, this film possesses a full orchestral score which allows it to have accessibility for mainstream concert-hall performance. Live film music has become increasingly popular in mainstream concert halls, and there is a consistent need for accessible repertoire in this medium.

Performing a silent film with live orchestral accompaniment …

The Current State Of Health Care Facility Preparedness, Health Care Utilization, And Covid-19 Knowledge Amidst The Covid-19 Pandemic In The Malaria-Endemic Setting Of Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe, Julia Grace Scott

Theses and Dissertations

The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been felt worldwide, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). With fractured health systems, disrupted supply chains, limited resources, and continued fighting of endemic diseases such as malaria, SSA is at risk for greater impact. Manicaland Province has the highest incidence rate of malaria in Zimbabwe, and a higher malaria mortality rate than the national average. Manicaland also has the third highest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Zimbabwe. In this study, health care facilities and households throughout Makoni, Mutare, and Buhera districts in Manicaland Province were administered cross-sectional surveys. We …

Virtual Interactive Notebooking With Gifted Learners In An Inquiry-Based Social Studies Classroom: A Mixed-Methods Action Research Study On Higher-Order Thinking And Student Motivation, Brandy Cooper Meyers

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this mixed methods action research was to implement and evaluate the use of virtual interactive notebooks with gifted students in a 4th-grade social studies classroom. Specifically, this study focused on two overarching research questions: (a) how does the implementation of virtual interactive notebooks in an inquiry-based, constructivist learning environment impact the use of higher-order thinking skills (according to Webb’s Depth of Knowledge) of gifted learners in a fourth-grade social studies classroom and (b) how does the implementation of virtual interactive notebooks in an inquiry-based, constructivist learning environment impact motivation of gifted learners in a fourth-grade social studies …

The Impact Of Social Media Account Types On Travel Intention, Nuri Seo

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research is to explore and understand how social media account types (DMOs, friends, and other individuals) influence traveler destination perceptions (destination trust and destination attractiveness) and visit intention. The current study also investigates the impact of the likes option on social media account types, which influence traveler perceptions and visit intention. Previous research had not explored three social media account types: DMOs, friends, and individuals based on Source Credibility Theory and the impact of likes on traveler destination perceptions and visit intention. The experimental design was used to test the research model; an experiment with a …

Dreadds Modulation Of Operant Behavior In Male And Female Hiv-1 Transgenic And F344/N Rats, Jessica Illenberger

Theses and Dissertations

The neurobiological processes which determine the choice between 2 (or more) reinforcers are unidentified despite the remarkable benefits which could result from better understanding or control of such processes. Most prominently, reducing choices to pursue drug over non-drug reinforcers could curtail the development or continuation of drug dependence. Likewise, increasing goal-directed behavior in single-schedule and choice settings may alleviate some of the consequences of apathy, a reduction in goal-directed behavior which can occur with neuropathologies including HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders. Dysregulation of the mesolimbic circuit, connecting the ventral tegmental area to the nucleus accumbens, has been implicated in both drug dependence …

Disrupting The Wise Monkey Approach To Principal Preparation, Ryan Pool

Theses and Dissertations

An antiquated approach to school leadership preparation has resulted in a shortage of leaders equipped to confront the challenges of racism and injustice in our school systems. School districts considering significant investment of financial and human resources in leadership preparation programs would benefit from an elevated understanding of how individuals arrive at a level of conscientization, or critical awakening, regarding issues of social justice. This case study examines one district’s approach to principal preparation, focusing on how specific professional learning interventions influenced participants’ beliefs regarding the transformative responsibilities of a school leader, and the common experiences that occurred between participants. …

Survey Of Four North American And Malaysian Theory Methods For Young Pianists, Wen Bin Ong

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to provide a content analysis and comparison between the selected theory methods by North American and Malaysian authors for the young beginning pianists (age 4 – 6). The selected North American theory methods are Prep Course for the Young Beginner and My First Piano Adventure for the Young Beginner while the Malaysian theory methods are Music Theory Made Easy for Kids and Music Theory for Young Children.

This study is comprised of four chapters, a bibliography, and an appendix. Chapter one provides a brief overview of the study, which consists of an introduction to …

Southern United States English As A Rhetorical Device In The Field Of Marketing: A Study And Implications For Business Writing Pedagogy, Megan Jacklynn Busch

Theses and Dissertations

In this dissertation project, I examine how professionals in the South use their Southern United States English (SUSE) to communicate in business situations. My goals are to (1) understand how regional language variety rhetorically shapes writtenprofessional communication and (2) establish a pedagogical framework for business writing that attunes to the nuances of language variation in the workplace. I hypothesize that speakers of SUSE implement regional dialects to form interpersonal business connections and build ethos and that SUSE has a significant rhetorical role to place in professional communications. To test this hypothesis, I develop a hybrid method of interviewing, discourse analysis, …