Digital Commons Network^™

The Effects Of Melanism On Leopard Solitary Behavior, Rachel Ullven

Theses & ETDs

Both melanism and communicative markings have been well-examined for their adaptive value. However, investigation of communicative markings using melanism to represent a loss of those markings is far too rare in existing literature for its research potential. One such species where melanism overrides what are thought to be communicative markings is the leopard (Panthera pardus). Since the dangerous, elusive, and solitary nature of the leopard has made it difficult to study their social behavior, proxies such as tracking collars or camera traps have been used in an attempt to gain insight into their behavior and social organization. By using sighting …

Outdoor Analytics: Tracking And Optimizing Fishing Through A Digital Dashboard, Chase Wink

Theses & ETDs

Despite being a common activity for both leisure and business, fishing data collection and analysis are still completed inefficiently. Conventional techniques like handwritten notes or dispersed internet resources frequently lead to lost or underutilized data, which hinders researchers' and fishermen's capacity to make informed decisions. This thesis addresses the need for a centralized, interactive fishing dashboard that integrates an interactive map plotter, provides clear visualizations, and aggregates fishing trip data. Having a lifelong love of fishing, this project was created to provide a useful tool that improves fishing experiences and aids in conservation and research. A wide spectrum of users, …

Spectral Discrete Ordinates Method With Laguerre Polynomial Truncation Of Order N (Spectral-Ltsn) Solutions To The Generalized Linear Boltzmann Equation, Raymond Odian-Floyd

Theses & ETDs

This thesis presents a deterministic numerical solver for the Generalized Linear Boltzmann Equation (GLBE), a model that describes nonclassical neutral particle transport in heterogeneous media with spatially correlated structures [6, 10]. In such media, the classical assumption of exponentially distributed free paths fails, necessitating a formulation that explicitly accounts for the distance s traveled since the last collision. The proposed method approximates the angular flux using a spectral expansion in generalized Laguerre polynomials over the free-path variable s, discretizes the angular domain using the discrete ordinates (SN) method [8], and applies a diamonddifference scheme for spatial discretization. The resulting system …

Bonnethead Sharks Ethogrambonnethead Sharks In Captivity And Determine If Their Activity Level Changes With Time Of Day And Around Feeding Times, Stephen Paine

Theses & ETDs

This thesis is testing to see how having specific feeding times modifies bonnethead sharks’ activity levels. Bonnethead sharks are the smallest kind of hammerhead shark species. We got permission to record and work with the three female bonnethead sharks at Mote Marine Aquarium. The hypothesis is that bonnethead sharks at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium will increase their velocity in anticipation of being fed if they are consistently fed at specific times, and their velocity will be stable at a lesser speed at all other times. Data were collected for a total of seven days using a camera. At Mote, …

Sexual Trauma And Self-Transcendence: Perceptions Of The Self And Trauma Healing After Sexual Assault, Isabel Reyes

Theses & ETDs

Previous research has explored connections between PTSD and social support, specifically for sexual assault (SA) related PTSD, as well as connections between social support and self-transcendence. Self-transcendence has also been found to be beneficial for overall well-being. The current study assesses the relationship between self-transcendence and Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms, or PTSS. This was done through an online survey sent out to social media groups and forums. The survey consisted of a PTSS scale, a self-transcendence scale, items on mitigating/aggravating factors of their SA(s), as well items on spirituality/religiosity and other demographic items. The results found no correlations between self-transcendence and …

Directing John Proctor Is The Villain, Sophia Patrick

Theses & ETDs

For my thesis, I directed Kimberly Belflower’s play, John Proctor is the Villain . In this thesis, I will be taking a more analytical approach. I will be using the analysis and research to inspire the aesthetic and directing choices made in the production process. This was completed inside and outside of the rehearsal room, before the rehearsal process begins and during the process. I will be using analytical tools and research methods that inspired my concept for John Proctor is the Villain . This thesis will be completed in three chapters. The first is background information pertaining to the …

Investigation Of Microrna In Canine Congestive Heart Failure, Jada Prignano

Theses & ETDs

Myxomatous mitral valvular degeneration (MMVD) is the most common heart disease in dogs, as well as a significant disease in the human heart. MMVD is characterized by valvular thickening and regurgitation, leading to secondary cardiac structure and function changes. The prevalence of this disease has been correlated wilh age and breed. Small breed dogs such as the Cavalier King Charles spaniel (CVKC), are predisposed to the disease, and the prevalence in the CVKC dogs older than 10 years is greater than 90%. Given that the disease is common, but only a minority of dogs will progress to heart failure, it …

The Art Of Being Hidden, Rachel Roeder

Theses & ETDs

The Art of Being Hidden is the Thesis project of Rachel Roeder in pursuit of her dual major in Creative Writing and Humanities. The project is a collection of short stories written over the course of the last two years. The aim of this project is to show the potential of Rachel’s writing as well as show what they have learned during their time as a student at New College of Florida. The stories included here are not necessarily in their finished forms, however they reflect where Rachel’s work is at the end of her four years of study. There …

The Effect Of Graphene Oxidation And Weight Percentage On The Biodegradability And Conductivity Of A Cellulose-Graphene (Oxide) Biocomposite, Jesse Roman

Theses & ETDs

The advent of electronics has been one of the greatest breakthroughs in human history, allowing us to significantly improve our quality of life, long-distance communication, and overall development as a society. Optimization and innovation of such technologies is ever-present today, as we continue to transition from in-person to online services. Despite the ongoing advances, the materials that we use to fabricate these devices are typically of plastic and metallic-origin, which not only persist in the environment, but are also detrimental to its health and that of humans. In fact, due to our increasing dependence on electronics, the industry is rapidly …

Effects Of Social Dynamics And Realism On Moral Decision Making In Young Adults, Jillian Salvitti

Theses & ETDs

Moral dilemma research has been used for decades to evaluate moral decision-making across a myriad of contexts. These dilemmas, while philosophical in creation, have evolved into a tool to measure moral decision-making. The current study aimed to evaluate differences in moral decision-making when working with a competitive peer while also being presented with dilemmas more realistic than typically found in moral decision research. Participants rated their agreement with 5 moral dilemmas by themselves, rating agreement with a proposed action on a 6-point Likert scale from Strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree. Then, participants were asked to work together with a confederate …

Evaluation Of An Efficient Ensembling Strategy For Linear Classifiers And Neural Networks, Lelaina Rose

Theses & ETDs

In this thesis I examine a specific ensembling technique—which I call “additive ensembling”—and how it performs when applied to linear classifiers, the perceptron, in particular, and feedforward neural networks. This technique differs from previous methods of ensembling, as it does not require the storage of individual weight vectors. Instead, it iteratively sums weight vectors from multiple separate models, resulting in one final summed model containing just one weight vector per class. It is implemented as an extension of scikit-learn’s machine learning library’s model classes. This algorithm is very straightforward to implement, requiring only a few lines of code and is …

Otto Von Bismarck: Foundation And Downfall Of The German Empire, Pablo Sarmiento

Theses & ETDs

In this thesis I will present the achievements of German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck. However, I am also presenting the faults in Bismarck's domestic and foreign policy. Through my research, I will display how the chancellor influenced German politics starting from his appointment to power in 1862 up until his removal from power in 1890. In the final section of this paper, I will analyze the legacy of Bismarck's strategies and the impact those have on German leadership throughout the Wilhelmine period. Overall I am portraying how the tactics Otto von Bismarck used had allowed him to create Germany but …

The Art Of Adaptation: Translating Short Stories To Film, Jakob Schreck

Theses & ETDs

This thesis addresses the process of adapting a short story into a feature-length film and what techniques that filmmakers use to translate a written work in a visual format. The adaptation essay features two case studies of short stories “The Sentinel” by Arthur C. Clarke and “Why Don’t You Dance?” By Raymond Carver and what directors Stanley Kubrick and Dan Rush are trying to accomplish with their adaptations of these stories into 2001: A Space Odyssey and Everything Must Go, going through what each director does with their adaptations and each of their approaches to them. The short story collection …

The Old But New Process Of Developing Race In Colonial America, Antuan Sconiers

Theses & ETDs

This thesis will analyze and explore the laws, systems, actors and events in the colonies of America that constructed and evolved the concept of race. Specifically, the Anglo colony of Virginia and the colony of Louisiana which went under French, Spanish and Anglo rule, will be examined. The question of what race is and what its purpose is will be tackled in this thesis. Big picture questions like what came first, slavery or racism will also be answered. The original scholarly work on Virginia was used as a guideline of how to go about studying the concepts of race and …

Vcu And The 2025 Virginia Course Materials Survey, Abbey Childs

Open and Affordable Course Content at VCU

No abstract provided.

Ai@Fhsu Magazine - Issue 1, Fort Hays State University

Artificial Intelligence at FHSU

Table of Contents:

Letter from the Editor... 03

QnA with Provost Jill Arsendorf... 05

ChatGPT-- Our New Favorite Committee Member... 07

Dialogue, Learning, and GenAI in the University... 11

The Intersection of AI and Multilingual Learners... 19

An Uncommon Cross-Disciplines Collaboration... 21

Google Gemini as a Consultant for Quantitative Data Analysis... 24

Purpose-Built Intelligence... 28

Adventures with AI... 31

Artificial Intelligence in School Psychology... 34

The Infrastructure of AI at FHSU... 38

Embracing Generative AI in Business Education... 42

From Hesitation to Confidence: AI’s Role in Student Communication & Expression... 44

FHSU Hosts AI Symposium to Help K-12 Educators Embrace …

Student Government Association Monthly Newsletter: November And December Edition, Madison May Albers

SGA - Newsletter

We would like to thank each and every one of you for your kind reception of our inaugural newsletter last month. We hope this one does not disappoint! This newsletter will cover all activity from November and December, as winter break is just around the corner. It also covers the results of our Educational Opportunity Fund cycle this year, so be sure to read all about that in the section titled "Bills passed." We all hope it's been a grand finals week and that you stay warm over break!

Radiation Dose Reduction Strategies In Interventional Radiology, Breanna Fluhr

Medical Imaging Senior Posters

This project explains the importance of radiation dose reduction in Interventional Radiology (IR) and the strategies that help protect both patients and healthcare staff. General factors that influence exposure, challenges associated with extended fluoroscopy times, sources of scatter radiation, and the role of proper training and protective equipment are discussed. IR procedures often involve long imaging times and complex patient anatomy, which can significantly increase radiation dose if not carefully managed. Traditional safety practices such as pulsed fluoroscopy, last image hold, collimation, increased distance, and appropriate shielding are essential in minimizing unnecessary exposure. New advancements, including patient dose management software, …

Radiation Dose In Computed Tomography (Ct), Helen Minnick

Medical Imaging Senior Posters

Computed Tomography (CT) is a critical diagnostic tool that delivers rapid, detailed cross-sectional imaging but remains a major contributor to medical radiation exposure. Increasing use of CT has led to concerns about excessive or low-value exams, including repeat scans that do not often change patient management and may increase long-term cancer risk. Evidence shows that only a small percentage of repeat head CTs reveal clinically significant findings, underscoring the importance of justification and reducing unnecessary imaging. Pediatric patients are particularly vulnerable due to increased tissue radiosensitivity and longer lifespans, making dose optimization essential. National initiatives such as Image Gently and …

Surface-Guided Radiation Therapy For Treatment Of Various Cancers, Taylor J. Windheim

Medical Imaging Senior Posters

Surface-Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT) is a newly advancing technology in radiation therapy that improves the accuracy and safety of radiation therapy treatments. SGRT utilizes three-dimensional images of the patient’s surface in real-time, which improves patient setup accuracy and allows for continuous patient monitoring, while decreasing the need for additional imaging in comparison to the traditional laser setup method. The project discusses the advantages of SGRT and the utilization of the technology for breast and lung radiation treatments. In breast cancer treatments, SGRT improves positioning accuracy and reproducibility, as well as decreases radiation dose to the heart and lungs while using …

Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (Mri), Madison Woodhead

Medical Imaging Senior Posters

This project explains fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and its role in prenatal diagnosis. It discusses various aspects, including types of prenatal imaging, clinical applications, the imaging procedures, safety considerations, and technical challenges. Understanding the benefits and limitations of fetal MRI allows for earlier and more accurate detection of fetal abnormalities. Fetal MRI serves as a secondary imaging modality that complements ultrasound by providing detailed imaging of fetal anatomy. Several congenital anomalies including those involving the central nervous system (CNS), as well as the abdominal and thoracic regions, can be thoroughly evaluated to provide additional information and confirm diagnoses made …

Ai In Mammography, Samantha Lorenzo, Gina Capitano

Medical Imaging Senior Posters

Abstract

This Research explores the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) in mammography and its role in cancer diagnosis. It examines statistical data related to AI-assisted diagnostics, highlights AI’s ability to detect early signs of cancer that may be imperceptible to the human eye, and discusses the growing adoption of AI among breast radiologists. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States and the second-leading cause of cancer-related death. Approximately one in eight women will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. The integration of AI in mammography represents a promising advancement in early detection and …

A Case Study: Alzheimer’S Progression In Mri, Lacey E. Sorber

Medical Imaging Senior Posters

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of Americans. Many individuals know a person who is currently suffering from Alzheimer’s or has lost their life due to the disease. Alzheimer’s can be described as early-onset or late-onset. Early-onset Alzheimer's occurs before the age of 65, and late-onset occurs after the age of 65. This research demonstrates a case study of a 63 year old male with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s include memory loss, cognitive decline, behavioral changes, and language problems. The patient in this case study’s symptoms began with memory loss and began to regress into cognitive decline. …

Utilizing Shockwave Therapy For Cardiac Catheterization, Nadja E. Hartmann

Medical Imaging Senior Posters

Abstract

This project explores the role of cardiac catheterization and the use of intravascular shockwave therapy (IVL) in diagnosing and treating coronary artery disease (CAD). Cardiac catheterization is a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to visualize coronary and peripheral vessels, assess heart function, and intervene on obstructed arteries. The poster outlines the fundamental steps of catheterization, including the use of specialized catheters, contrast imaging, and tools such as balloons and stents to restore blood flow. The main topic of this project is Shockwave therapy, a newer technique designed to treat heavily calcified lesions that are resistant to other methods, …

Basics Of Contrast-Enhanced Spectral Mammography, Megan A. Lasher

Medical Imaging Senior Posters

Contrast-Enhanced Spectral Mammography (CESM) is an advanced diagnostic technique that combines anatomical and functional breast imaging with the use of iodinated contrast to enhance potential malignant lesion visualization. This capstone presents the fundamental principles of mammography, clinical indications and contraindications, and diagnostic capabilities of CESM compared to traditional mammography. CESM has improved the detection of malignancies, especially in dense breast tissue, as contrast highlights vascular changes associated with tumor angiogenesis. The imaging involves a dual-energy image acquisition, as low-energy is required for structure and high-energy for contrast enhancement. The dual imaging provides a thorough insight into lesion morphology and perfusion. …

Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Breast Biopsy, Ainsley Derck

Medical Imaging Senior Posters

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) -guided breast biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure used to obtain tissue samples that look suspicious on a breast MRI. Because MRI has high soft tissue contrast, subtle abnormalities can be detected that may not be seen well in other breast imaging modalities, like mammography or ultrasound. This makes MRI-guided breast biopsy a valuable option in evaluating suspicious breast tissue abnormalities. The MRI-guided breast biopsy uses MR imaging to accurately locate suspicious tissue and perform a minimally invasive biopsy procedure. During the procedure, MRI is used to position a needle in the breast at the location …

., Dr. Abdulkerim Mustafa

Faculty Peer-Reviewed Papers | بحوث هيئة التدريس المحكمة

No abstract provided.

Mediated Sufi Singing And Its Popularization In Pakistan’S National Culture In The Founding Years (1947-1979), Shumaila Hemani

World Music Textbook

Following the path of a sacred musical practice into the public sphere, this chapter explores the relationships between regional identity, nationalism, and the media.

Daily Announcements January 2025, Wofford College. Office Of Marketing And Communications

Communications Office Daily Announcements

No abstract provided.

Part 7: Hampton Roads' Collaborative Spirit Produces Regional Results, Dragas Center For Economic Analysis And Policy, Old Dominion University, Drew Lumpkin

State of the Region Reports: Hampton Roads

In this chapter, Drew Lumpkin, lead author, examines how collaboration has improved in Hampton Roads over the last two decades. He highlights specific examples of regional collaboration and how these efforts have changed the conversation in Hampton Roads.