bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Harvesting energy along muscat expressway using vertical axis wind turbine
Authors: Hamza Rumman  , Fiseha Mekonnen Guangul
Published: September 2020

The continuous use of fossil fuels as energy source has depleted their level, and if used by the same rate, these forms of energy sources are going to become extinct in a few hundred years. In addition, the emissions generated from the usage of these fuels are adversely affecting the environment. Hence, governments has been forced to find other non-conventional forms of energy, which can be used sustainably. Due to its geographic location, Oman has a very high potential for renewable energies like solar and wind. Oman receives moderate wind speeds both offshore and onshore. On highways, the wind turbulence caused by fast moving cars would add up to the energy that can be obtained from the natural wind. This study focuses on harvesting of electric energy from the highway wind turbulence along with the normal wind breeze, and converting it into useful electrical energy. A comparative study was done between different types of wind turbines. Based on this study, a Savonius-type Vertical Axis Wind Turbine was selected to study and determine the amount of energy that can be generated along Muscat Expressway from the wind energy. The optimum location for the implementation of the designed VAWT was found out to be in the middle of the highways. The total electricity which can be generated was estimated to be around 1.063 kWh in one day using a single VAWT. It was found that the harvested electricity could be used to power the street lights on the highways if multiple VAWTs would be installed at regular intervals.
Impact of Cultural Diversity on Organizational Performance in Ooredoo Oman
Authors: Zahra Gulead Bait Ishaq  , Bambang Rizki Pratomo
Published: September 2020

The project is about the impact of cultural diversity on organization performance of Ooredoo Company. This project focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of the cultural diversity in organization. Then the challenges that the organization faces for managing multicultural groups.
A Critical Study on the Implementation of the Total Quality Management in Directorate General of Project and Engineering Affairs in Ministry of Health, Oman
Authors: Khalid Saif Salim Al-Nadabia  , Dr. Maria Teresa Matriano
Published: September 2020

Total quality management or TQM has become one of the most important mechanisms for organizations that offers unique products or services to satisfy customers and achieve organizational goals. It is the core of management in the 21st century to provide better services and strive for customer and supplier satisfaction as well as maintaining a good relationship with the owners. The problem that this research focuses on is that the organization does not use a quality system or policy at work and therefore management faces a major problem on cost and effort in training staff. This has led to a lack of trust of the client as well as stakeholders in the services provided by the institution. The study primarily focused on understanding the application of TQM in Directorate General of Project and Engineering Affairs (DGPEA) office in Ministry of Health, as well as the challenges and issues in the performance of the work. The study has proposed a framework for improving TQM in DGPEA and in increasing the efficiency and quality of service. The researcher used descriptive methodology to collect qualitative and quantitative data through survey questionnaire and interviews. Judgmental purposive sampling technique was used with a more representative sample. It was concluded in the study that organization should focus on cooperation in creating a healthy work environment and for continuous improvement of all operations as well as reducing redundancy and unnecessary functions. The recommendations addressed the top-management concerns, and operational TQM issues aiming at strengthening the strategies adopted in the application of TQM in accordance with international standards.
Designing a Software to manage and provide the Available Oral Historical Documents in the Documents and Archives Authority
Authors: Al Musafir Dr. Shamsa Habib Shambeh , بثينة بنت خلفان بن سالم البدري
Published: September 2020

The oral history is of great importance in preserving the national memory beside the written document and in the belief in its importance and role in preserving the national heritage. The researcher prepared this study with the aim of limiting intellectual production in the field of oral history, achieving effective scientific communication between different researchers, facilitating remote access to oral history, Oral History To combat any intellectual invasion of history, the idea of establishing an electronic oral history program in the National Archives and Archives was conceived The first chapter contains the general framework of the study and the second chapter discusses the theoretical framework of the study. The third chapter deals with the actual management and availability of documents and oral history documents in the National Documents and Archives. Chapter 4 includes the survey study of the subject of the study. The researcher studied the final chapter of the study to prepare a proposed model for the establishment of an electronic program for oral history in the National Documents and Archives to achieve the basic objective that the study sought to achieve In conclusion, the study concludes with a set of general findings and recommendations that can contribute to the use of modern programs and technology in the management of oral history documents.
To Study the Reality of Document Management and e-content of Thakirat Oman Website
Authors: الدرمكي عهود عبدالله , حبيب المسافر الدكتورة شمسه
Published: September 2020

The topic of document management and electronic content benefits specialists, beneficiaries and users of document management and electronic content in all sites, including the Memory of Oman website. This technology has increased and has brought about notable changes in the creation of documents and electronic content and how to use it quickly.
This study focused on identifying the reality of managing documents and electronic content for the Memory of Oman website on the international internet, and gained the importance of the study in knowing how to manage the content of the Oman Memory website, because the site includes a large number of Omani documents and manuscripts, so the study sought to achieve a set One of the goals, the most important of which is to know what is the electronic content management of the Amman Memory website, and the basic requirements and needs for its management in terms of its availability of hardware, software, applications and the mechanism used to classify, index, store and retrieve Omani documents and manuscripts on the content of the content The electronic site is located, so the Memory of Oman site is considered the first site of its kind that is managed by a civil society aimed at preserving the history of the country through collecting and making available to that large number of documents and Omani manuscripts. General about the Amman Memory website, in addition to the second chapter, which dealt with the study of the reality of everything related to the Amman Memory site, then the survey and field study chapter, which dealt with the methodology that the researcher followed in her study, which is the descriptive and analytical approach and the researcher used to carry out her research The tools of scientific research, such as field visits, interviews, and the distribution of questionnaires, were varied in the questions between closed and open, and the researcher relied on previous studies and research related to the subject of her study as a tool to identify the subject of the study, and the researcher developed in the fifth chapter a suggested concept as a project for her graduation, which is the development of electronic content for the Amman Memory website, which is the goal The main thing is to make the Memory of Oman website with the same quality and content of the global libraries as its Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Arab world, and finally the recommendations and results after completing its study in its final form.
The Application of Blockchain Technology in Managing Electronic Documents in Public Organizations in Oman
Authors: الوهيبي انتصار بنت سالم بن منصور , المسافر شمسة بنت حبيب
Published: September 2020

The Application of Blockchain Technology in Managing Electronic Documents in Public Organizations in Oman.
Techniques for Data Exploration in the Texts of the Electronic Documents of the Council for Scientific Research, Reality and Development
Authors: زينب مسلم راشد العامري  , المسافر شمسة بنت حبيب
Published: September 2020

This study examines data mining techniques in the texts of electronic documents in the Scientific Research Council, and in light of the rapid development of computer and information technology, the amount of data that the Scientific Research Council can store is growing rapidly, and the ability to store this data does not end. Where comes the most important step is how to invest these huge amounts of data. It can be said that these data represent the memory of the Scientific Research Council and a real wealth that can be neglected. It can also be invested intelligently in analyzing past transactions, events and procedures within the Scientific Research Council. Then, policies and strategic plans can be drawn on insight, vision and an information heritage that describes locations The success and failure of the board predicts opportunities for future improvement
The study contains five chapters in which the researcher dealt with the general framework of the study, the theoretical framework of the study, the study of the actual reality and the field framework of the study and the conclusion of the study as the researcher worked after studying the actual reality by setting a set of results, recommendations and future proposals in this regard and the researcher developed a list of sources and references that relied on her in the study and appendices For study, such as a letter of instruction and an appendix to the questionnaire you distributed and the questions you asked during the interview.
Because this technology is of great importance in scientific research, the researcher has developed a proposed model for the study, which is setting a work plan for data exploration in the texts of electronic documents in the Scientific Research Council
Debussy's Lasting Impact on Flute Composition
Authors: Lee Kaitlin Mattison
Published: September 2020

In 1913, French composer Claude Debussy penned a work for solo flute that to this day has remained popular in the flute repertoire. Syrinx, written to accompany a scene in the play Psyche, tells the story of Pan and Syrinx from Greek mythology. This poster project seeks to explain the impact that Debussy’s Syrinx has made on 20th and 21st Century flute composition. This impact included descriptive music, use of whole tone scales, freedom from strict meter, and a poetic performance style for the unaccompanied flute genre. Some elements of Debussy’s style come from his first encounter with Asian music at the World’s Fair. In the Baroque period, it was not unusual for composers to write for unaccompanied instruments. Scholars estimate that J. S. Bach’s Partita in A Minor was written sometime in the 1720s, while Telemann composed Twelve Fantasias for Solo Flute in 1732-33. After the Baroque period, the solo flute genre was absent from the repertoire until Debussy’s Syrinx. Nearly 200 years later, he gave the solo flute a new sound, which, in turn, inspired more composers to write for unaccompanied flute. The 20th Century surge of works written for solo flute is no doubt partially due to the further development of the instrument into its modern day form. However, the increase originates with Debussy’s Syrinx. Upon examination of the solo flute repertoire, it appears that Debussy is the composer most responsible for encouraging the composition of contemporary works for the flute. The research includes primary sources such as the score, the script to the play Psyche, and the abundance of subsequent solo flute compositions. Different online music resources were consulted for background information and musical interpretation.
Co-Existence Ecology of Large Predators in Belize
Authors: Holcombe Brogan Elizabeth , Kelly Dr. Marcella J.
Published: September 2020

Jaguars, pumas, and ocelots are the main large predators within Belize, Central America that co-exist together and compete for resources. This study focused on determining whether the occurrence and/or detection of smaller predators (ocelots and pumas) is influenced by larger, more dominant predators (jaguars) across the landscape. Additionally, within this study we examined the influence of habitat-type and individual species sex on co-existence ecology utilizing data collected from non-invasive trail cameras in Belize. We formatted raw photo data into “capture histories” for three target species at each camera station across four study sites, and calculated the species interaction factors (SIFs) through co-occurrence modeling in program PRESENCE. Data analysis is currently on-going, but we hypothesize that the top-down control hypothesis, which states top predators will negatively influence space use and/or detection by smaller predators. We expect this will lead to negative SIFs in pairwise comparison indicating avoidance of top predators by smaller ones. Within each species, our preliminary results for the first of four study show that males tend to occur at a camera station shortly after females. Thus we expect this to lead to positive SIF values (indicating attraction) between the sexes of the same species. While analyses are not yet complete, we expect our results to give insight into species co-existence among competitors and also provide a greater understanding to whether sex and/or habitat influences competing species interactions.
The Roles of Social Anxiety and Sexual Communication in Marriage Relationships
Authors: Ogan Matthew , Hall Melissa
Published: September 2020

Past research shows strong connections between sexual satisfaction, sexual communication, and relationship satisfaction in romantic couples. However, social anxiety tends to inhibit communication and self-disclosure about sensitive topics, including sex. In this research, I aimed to determine the role social anxiety plays in sexual satisfaction, sexual communication, and relationship satisfaction in married couples. I hypothesized that social anxiety would not have strong impacts on sexual satisfaction, sexual communication, and relationship satisfactionin married couples because of the familiarity that comes along with marriage. 16 heterosexual couples, or 32 individuals, completed a five-section survey to measure each individual’s sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, sexual communication satisfaction, fear of intimacy, and social anxiety. Results showed significant moderate correlations between social anxiety and every other variable: sexual satisfaction, r(30) = -.44, p= .01; relationship satisfaction, r(30) = -.43, p= .01; sexual communication, r(30) = -.47, p< .01; and fear of intimacy, r(30) = .55, p< .01. Socially anxious individuals also reported significantly decreased sexual satisfaction compared to non-anxious individuals. Implications for future research are discussed.Keywords:social anxiety, sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, sexual communication, fear of intimacy, marriage
Effective Patient-Provider Communication For Newly Diagnosed Patients In A Primary Care Setting: A Quantitative Study
Authors: Lockett Ralston R , DeBose, PhD, MSN, MSEd, RN Myra Michelle
Published: September 2020

Ralston Lockett, BSN, RN - FNP StudentMyra Michelle DeBose, PhD, MSN, MSEd, RN - Faculty AdvisorPrairie View A & M University - College of Nursing - Graduate Program - Houston, TXBackground: There are newly diagnosed patients in primary care settings with depressive symptomsdue to lack of communication from providers. The aim of this proposed study is to assess newlydiagnosed patients who may express depressive symptomology. Establishing a sound relationshipbetween patients and providers is essential for a trusting relationship. Patient-centeredcommunication increases better health outcomes in primary care settings. There is reason to believethat missed opportunities between patient-providers can decrease patient compliance and increasedepression.Research Hypothesis: Newly diagnosed patients that receive effective provider communication willhave a decrease in depressive symptoms as compared to newly diagnosed patients who do not receiveeffective communication.Methodology: This study uses a longitudinal, quasi-experimental research design, conveniencesampling. Up to 80 newly diagnosed patients who did not receive effective communication will beevaluated for approximately six months. The primary setting will be 2 urban area clinics in Houston,Texas. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), will be used within 30 days afterthe initial healthcare provider visit to assess depressive symptoms.Results: Depressive symptoms will be measured using the (CES-D) assessment tool of 20 – items. Thetool assesses how frequently an individual experienced depressive symptoms within a week. Inaddition, a 45 min post visit survey regarding provider communication will be sent after 30 days.Sample analysis will include diagnosis and literacy level. Participants will be asked to identify preferredmethods of communicating with their provider.Significance: There is a correlation between depressive symptoms and lack of effective communicationwith patients in a primary care setting. Poor identification of patient’s mental health status andengagement in plan of care can lead to poor patient health outcomes, increase health care costs, anddisparities to under-privilege communities.
Homelessness and Health Disparities
Authors: Simmons-Matthews Courtney , DeBose Myra Michelle
Published: September 2020

A graduate level nursing course was enhanced by adding photo voice methodology to explore cultural dimensions of health care delivery in urban and rural settings. Photo voice enables the student to record community strengths and concerns. It promotes critical dialogue and knowledge about important issues through large and small group discussion of photographs and ultimately reach policymakers (Wang & Burris, 1997).Three of twenty-seven exposures, represent the raw, uncut harsh realities of homelessness in the heart of downtown Houston, Texas. In a city, known for the largest medical center in the world, health disparities are seen on nearly every corner. Healthcare and accessibility to healthcare services for the homeless are scarce and not effectively utilized. Deplorable, unsanitary environments are breathing grounds for infection and communicable diseases. Substance abuse and mental health disorders negatively impact the lives of many. Within the homeless community, chronic diseases are usually not diagnosed or poorly managed possibly due to poor follow-up and/or healthcare accessibility. There is an abundance of healthcare services, but for whatever unforeseen circumstances, health promotion does not appear to be prevalent within the homeless community.
Implementation and analysis of MIMO system based on Alamouti coding
Authors: Ramachandran Vidhya Lavanya
Published: September 2020

Use of multiple antennas at the receiver and transmitter in a wireless network is a rapidly emerging technology that promises higher data rates at longer ranges without consuming extra bandwidth or transmit power. These systems can be with single-input multiple-output (SIMO), multiple-input single-output (MISO), or with multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) architectures to improve the signal quality at the receiver using multiple data pipes over a link. MIMO communication system considers multiple antennas used at the transmitting end as well as the receiving end. In addition, the MIMO system has the ability to spread in the spatial domain which is combined in such a way that they either create effective multiple parallel spatial data pipes and diversity to improve the quality (for example decrease the bit error rate). The benefit from the multiple antennas arise from the new dimension space. Hence, the spatial dimension comes as a complement to time. MIMO technology also known as space-time ‘wirelesses’. Space–time block coding (STBC) is a technique used in wireless communications to transmit multiple copies of a data stream across a number of antennas and to exploit the various received versions of the data to improve the reliability of data transfer. The Alamouti coding is a STBC coding technique that is widely use in wireless communication. Alamouti coding can be used in different models like using 2×1 MISO mode or a 2×2 MIMO mode and it can use OFDM system. The purpose of this project is to test a performance of wireless communication system under different type of noise, and the channel model. Also, implementation and analysis of MIMO system based on Alamouti STBC coding.
RFID Based Vehicle Identification and Paid Parking System
Authors: Balachandran Abhijith , Sam Saumya Ann , Solanky Sweety , Joseph Varsha
Published: September 2020

In the current scenario, parking has become a major issue as there is space, money and manual work related issues associated with it. Though the advancements in technology have brought parking facilities the way we see today, these limitations are yet to be overcome.  We find it difficult to find a parking slot during peak traffic times. Payment is also difficult as it is manually done; payment is not fully automatic as it involves direct payment of cash or coin. Also, it involves payment for a fixed amount of time which might not ensure full utilization of money spent in case of leaving before the estimated time. In this project, an attempt has been made to overcome the problems encountered in the present paid parking system through RFID technology.
The Efficacy of Auditory, Visual, and Tactile Feedback in Improving Speech and Intelligibility Skills of People with Severe to Profound Hearing Loss Across Varying Age Levels
Authors: Partyka Marie , Carrico Cheri
Published: September 2020

Introduction Enhanced auditory, tactile, and visual feedback systems have been researched as alternative means of sensory feedback for people with severe to profound hearing loss to improve articulation and intelligibility of speech. The general consensus is that children with hearing loss are on average 20% intelligible, which translates to one word out of every five is understood by the listener. As children enter school, their speech intelligibility is often considered an indication of their abilities, meaning that low intelligibility could result in underestimation of potential. For adults who experience hearing loss, articulation has been shown to dramatically decrease over time, resulting in lowered intelligibility. Purpose The purpose of this research is to compare each form of feedback to determine which form of sensory feedback provides the highest levels of efficacy for preschool aged children (3 to 5 years), school aged children (6 to 17 years), and adults (18+ years). Conclusion A combination of biofeedback types is suggested for school aged children and adults, as each form demonstrated improvement for differing areas of speech. Visual and tactile are not recommended for the preschool children, as it is assumed these forms of feedback are too complex to be translated at this age. Tactile is not recommended for school aged children as there were inconclusive findings. For adults, each of the feedback systems demonstrated positive effects, indicating the three systems should be paired for optimal and most efficient results.
The Role of Religion in Solidifying the Individual and Group Identity of Women [University of West Georgia]
Authors: Coleman Jawonna Jonae , Snipes Marjorie
Published: September 2020

The impact of religion on social behavior has been a well-researched topic throughout the years. Consequently, scholars believe that religion influences positive social behavior in religious individuals and creates the basis for individual identity and sense of belonging. In this research, I examine how female identity becomes solidified during college and the roles religion plays in constructing identity and social behavior. Using anthropologist Victor Turner’s concept of communitas (1967) I seek to understand female social behavior and what prompts the development of group unity as well as how religion serves as a bonding agent among college students during their first years living independently. Using ethnographic field methods including informal interviews, life histories, and participant observation, I will conduct in-depth studies of fifteen female University of West Georgia collegiate sophomores. Females are the focus group for my study because I am inspired to discover how a woman’s identity is formed within male-dominant societies and how religion influences a woman’s social behavior. Therefore, I will consider the interplay between the effects of religion on social behavior and identity in a college setting and how being a college student affects the individual’s religious values. I will concentrate on unmarried, 18-21 year-old female collegiate sophomores who reside on the UWG campus and identify with a particular religion. I hypothesize that through the experience of communitas, the religious values and practices of an 18-21 year-old collegiate female sophomore at The University of West Georgia cause her to be more socially involved/engaged with others and influence her career choices.
The Perceptions of Physical Activity in the Somali Community of the Twin Cities of Minnesota [University of Minnesota, Twin Cities]
Authors: Noor Sumaya Hassan , Osman Fahima , Tummala Sarah Reddy
Published: September 2020

This qualitative research investigates the perceptions of physical activity held by Muslim Somali men and women in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Following the civil war in Somalia in the early 90s, Minnesota received a large influx of Somali-identified people who eventually formed the largest Somali community in the country. As members of this community, we have observed the wide array of beliefs in how Somali people view physical activity and its importance. Little information exists in the literature about the physical activity levels of Somali-identified people since most of this health information is categorized by race. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in Spring 2018 with participants recruited from local college campus’, mosques, and community centers. Questions probed at how factors such as age, gender, and immigration status impact physical activity. A total of eighteen adult participants were interviewed, eight males and ten females. Data analysis of transcripts included data reduction, conclusion drawing, and verification, using at least two independent reviewers at each stage to protect against bias. Preliminary results demonstrate that most participants conveyed that their religion and culture promote health, but may hinder rates of physical activity. Results also show that changes in lifestyle between Somalia and the US have a direct effect on the decreased rates of physical activity. Immigrant participants listed a different set of needs upon coming to the United States, and physical activity did not rank highly on that list for most. Implications for practice will be discussed, including the need for culturally relevant health promotion as a means of adaptation into the westernized culture and the need for interventions that allow students to incorporate physical well-being with their studies.
A Novel Method to Treat Lymphedema [Virginia Commonwealth University]
Authors: Khan Faizaan M.
Published: September 2020

One in eight American women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Many will survive, but will be left with painful reminders of their disease. One of these is lymphedema, a disease that involves excessive swelling of the limbs due to lymphectomies, chemotherapy, and radiation. Lymphedema affects body image, activities of daily living and ails more than 10 million Americans, yet nothing is being done for these people. They have defeated cancer but are losing to life. Lymphedema has many treatment options; however, most of them are ineffective, irritating, debilitating and cause other side effects such as nerve pain, muscle atrophy, and joint pain. New treatments need to be established. I am researching whether biomedical engineers can create a surgical implant that will restore or repair the lymphatic system. I studied the lymphatic system and the damage that is caused due to cancer treatments. Then I examined peer-reviewed research that explored how to prevent lymphedema, how different methods of breast reconstruction affected the incidence of lymphedema, the effectiveness of conventional lymphedema treatments, and the effect of surgical implants and grafts on limb volume reduction. The research suggests that biomedical engineers can create an implant that is capable of effectively treating lymphedema. The proposed device will be a small pump that will be implanted in place of the lymph nodes, the damaged lymphatic pathways will be replaced with silicone catheters and the devices’ battery will be charged using wireless charging. The pump and catheters will work in conjunction to regulate the lymph. The implant described above can be easily fabricated by modifying the original idea used in another study. Based on the results of the study this implant can be used to standardize the treatment and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from lymphedema.
The Differences In Benthic Macroinvertebrate Communities When A Comparison Is Made Between Multiple Reaches With Special Attention To Man-Made Structures [Joliet Junior College]
Authors: Narvaez Nathaniel , Griffis John
Published: September 2020

The use of macroinvertebrates as indicator organisms is cheap, easy, and a reliable way to determine water quality. To determine the effects on man-made structures on macroinvertebrate communities and stream quality, comparisons were made between macroinvertebrate samples from established open canopy upstream and forested downstream reaches, and adjacent reaches with man-made structures (road bridge and foot bridge). Macroinvertebrates were collected using a D-frame kicknet, following Illinois Riverwatch protocol. There was little difference in Macroinvertebrate Biotic Indices and Shannon Diversity Indices between established and adjacent reaches. However, there were significant differences between EPT/non-EPT and pollution intolerant/tolerant organisms found between all reaches, and between all paired comparisons of the established and adjacent reaches (p< 0.05), except when comparing the forested reach with the road bridge reach (EPT/non-EPT, p=0.583; pollution intolerant/tolerant, p=0.542), the forested reach and the road bridge (EPT/non-EPT, p=0.84), and the forested reach with the adjacent foot bridge reach (EPT/non-EPT, p=0.489). Noticeable differences in taxa distribution occurred between all reaches. Different samples obtained from different reaches indicated varying distribution of taxa, with the forested reach having more high quality EPT taxa and individuals, however all reaches displayed similar water quality of “fair”, with little impact from man-made structures.
The Effects of Parent Attachment and Parenting Styles on Decision-Making in College Students [Susquehanna University]
Authors: Wasarhelyi Jenna Nicole , John Benjamin , Long Bryce , Lovas Gretchen S.
Published: September 2020

College students face many decisions that can shape the course of their future lives.  Individual differences in decision-making styles affect the quality of students’ choices. The impact of personality on decision-making is well researched; little research explores the impact of parent attachment and parenting styles. Attachment with parents provides a sense of basic security or insecurity; parenting style impacts the child’s sense of autonomy and confidence. We explored the effects of parent attachment, parenting styles, and two personality variables on decision-making in college students. We hypothesized that low levels of attachment anxiety and avoidance, and high levels of authoritative parenting, conscientiousness, and impulse control, would predict positive decision-making styles. Students (N = 80) at a small liberal arts university completed a survey that measured parent attachment (anxiety, avoidance; Fraley, et al. 2011), parenting styles (authoritative, authoritarian, permissive; Buri 1991), conscientiousness and impulse control (Goldberg, 1999), and decision-making (avoidant, dependent, intuitive, rational, spontaneous; Scott & Bruce, 1995).  Preliminary analyses explored the impacts of age and gender. Primary analyses consisted of stepwise regressions on decision-making styles. Age had no effects; there were student and parent gender differences. As expected, conscientiousness and impulse control predicted more positive and less negative decision-making, avoidance toward the father less positive and more negative decision-making, avoidance toward the mother more negative decision-making, and authoritarian mothering more negative decision-making. Unexpectedly, authoritative mothering predicted less positive and more negative decision-making and authoritarian fathering more positive decision-making.  Our results suggest that parent attachment and parenting styles do influence decision-making styles. Our regressions explained 23%-36% of the variance for four of the five decision-making styles. Limitations of our study included a small sample and limited personality variables.  We believe the impact of parent attachment and parenting styles on decision-making warrants further exploration with a larger sample and widened range of variables.
Verification of End to End Learning Concept for Mobile Robotics Platform [Kennesaw State University]
Authors: Nguyen Vivian , McFall Kevin
Published: September 2020

End-to-end neural networks (EENN) utilize machine learning to make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed to perform tasks by considering the inputs and outputs directly. In contrast, traditional hard coded algorithmic autonomous robotics require every possibility programmed. Existing research with EENN and autonomous driving demonstrates level-two autonomy where the vehicle can assist with acceleration, braking, and environment monitoring with a human observer, such as NVIDIA's DAVE-2 autonomous car system by utilizing case-specific computing hardware, and DeepPiCar by scaling technology down to a low power embedded computer (Raspberry Pi). The goal of this study is to recreate previous findings on a different platform and in different environments through EENN application by scaling up DeepPiCar with a NVIDIA Jetson TX2 computing board and hobbyist grade parts (e.g. 12V DC motor, Arduino) to represent 'off-the-shelf' components when compared to DAVE-2. This advancement validates that the concept is scalable to using more generalized data, therefore easing the training process for an EENN by avoiding dataset overfitting and production of a system with a level of 'common sense'. Training data is collected via camera input and associating velocity and encoder values from a differential drive ground vehicle (DDGV) with quadrature motors at 320x240 resolution with a CSV database. Created datasets are fed into an EENN analogous to the DAVE-2 EENN layered structure: one normalization, five convolutional, three fully connected layers. The EENN is considered a convolutional neural network (assumes inputs are images and learns filters, e.g. edge detection, independently from a human programmer), and accuracy is measured by comparing produced velocity values against actual values from a collected validation dataset. An expected result is the DDGV navigates a human space and obstacles by the EENN only inputting sensor data and outputting velocities for each motor
EFFECTS OF PERCENT REINFORCEMENT ON PIGEON'S ACCURACY IN MIDSESSION REVERSAL TASKS [University of Kentucky]
Authors: Peng Daniel , House Dalton , Zentall Thomas R.
Published: September 2020

This experiment tests the effects of a reducing the value of one stimulus compared to another. We hypothesize that in a midsession reversal task, accuracy would improve by devaluing choice of S2 relative to S1. A midsession reversal task requires a simultaneous discrimination between 2 stimuli (S1, S2), during which, halfway through the session the reinforcing stimulus is reversed. A current theory, win-stay/lose-shift, is a strategy for optimal choices in this task. In this strategy, an animal would continue to repeat choice of a correct stimulus, but once the stimulus becomes incorrect, the animal should switch to the other stimulus. In this experiment, ten unsexed White Carneau pigeons were used as subjects. The experiment took place in an operant test chamber. Inside, three horizontally aligned circular response keys are attached to a response panel. The keys are lit by mounted projectors showing red and green hues. Reinforcement consisted of 1.5 seconds of access to mixed-grain from a feeder. In the experimental group, all correct responses to S1 were reinforced but only a random 20% of the correct responses to S2 were reinforced. Our findings suggest that paradoxically, the reduction in the probability of reinforcement for correct S2 responses from 100% to 20% had a net positive effect on correct responses. There was a significant reduction in errors prior to the feedback from the reversal as well as no increase in errors following the feedback from the reversal. Analysis of the trials on either side of the reversal made it clear that there was a net benefit in percentage correct due to the decrease in the probability of reinforcement associated with correct responses to S2. This study suggests the negative impacts of too much reinforcement on subjects performance in a task.
Assessing the Role of the Transcriptional Repressor BLMP-1 in the Molting Timer of C. elegans [University of California, Los Angeles]
Authors: Lopez Jaqueline Cecilia , Patel Ruhi , Frand Alison
Published: September 2020

Biological rhythms are key features of animal development; however, the underlying timers are not well understood. A novel biological oscillator, perhaps ancestrally related to the human circadian clock, times the molting cycle in C. elegans. The molting timer consists of interconnected feedback loops among the nuclear hormone receptor NHR-23, the microRNA let-7 and LIN-42, the worm homolog of the human circadian clock protein PERIOD. However, other components of the timer are not known. I hypothesized that the BLMP-1 protein is a core component of the molting timer in C. elegans. The extent to which BLMP-1 times the molting cycle was determined by comparing the duration of larval stages in blmp-1 mutants to that of wild-type animals. I characterized the temporal expression profile of the blmp-1 gene using the blmp-1p::gfp reporter gene which I introduced to the animals through transfection. In order to determine if NHR-23 activates blmp-1, I used the reporter gene to observe blmp-1 expression in stage-specific knockdowns of nhr-23. I found that blmp-1 mutants reach adulthood earlier relative to wild type animals, when both are released from starvation at the same time. Additionally, lower fluorescence intensity of blmp-1p::gfp is observed in nhr-23 mutants than in control animals, signifying that blmp-1 levels are lower in the absence of NHR-23. A deeper understanding of the molting timer can lead to insights in the biological clocks pertinent to humans which can be applied both to the circadian rhythm and to aging.
Observed Effects of Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) Methods in Education of Students in Uganda [Kennesaw State University]
Authors: Whitlock Amanda Brooke , Ukeje Ikechukwu
Published: September 2020

Researchers have examined the effects of the SIOP, Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol, model on English Language Learners (ELLs) in the United States. With the SIOP model, teachers use research-based instruction that benefits all students including ELL students. However, there is a need to examine its effects for students in other countries. This study compares the performance and engagement of students in a rural setting in Uganda when they experience instruction that follows parts of the SIOP model. Many students in Uganda struggle in mathematics because of the lack of support due to class sizes of about 65-105 students. This study will highlight the use of researched methods for ELLs within the United States for students in other countries, such as Uganda, that will help students in Uganda’s educational system. Based on the observations of participation, engagement, and performance on the tests given by the researcher during this study, the data gathered from the researcher and the local teachers will show that the methods are working for the students at Ekitangaala. The analysis of this observational data has resulted in cross-cultural symbiotic pedagogical learning. The results show that the students are more engaged when they are learning in an environment that employs SIOP researched methods and better retain content for testing which allowed for better performance.
Stress mindset: Does it (or does it not) affect cognitive performance? [University of West Florida]
Authors: Yanovsky Sonia , Saulmon Tesa , Pham Paula , Taylor Morgan , Han Hui-Ya , Pritchett Carolyn
Published: September 2020

Stress is widely perceived as debilitating, which is a negative stress mindset, while the helpful aspects of stress, from a positive stress mindset, are often overlooked. Stress mindset can either be a positive, stress-is-enhancing mindset, or a negative, stress-is-debilitating mindset. Previous research has shown that having a positive mindset lowers stress levels and generates better self-reported work performance. Thus, this study focuses on the effects of manipulated stress mindset on objective cognitive performance, which has not been studied before. During each of our three stages (baseline, stress induction, and mindset manipulation), we measured participants’ current subjective stress levels, objective stress levels using a pulse oximeter, stress mindset with the Stress Control Mindset Measure and an implicit association task, and cognitive performance with the Stroop task and Trail Making Task. To induce stress, we informed the participants that they must give a public speech if they did not improve their reaction time and accuracy on the cognitive tasks. Then we manipulated their mindset using a randomly assigned video to convince the participant that stress is either enhancing or debilitating. Our first hypothesis is that the Positive Mindset group will have self-improved accuracy and decreased reaction time in the cognitive tasks as compared to the Negative Mindset group. Our second hypothesis is that the stress levels of the Positive Mindset group will be reduced/mitigated after mindset manipulation as compared to the Negative Mindset group. The between-subjects design will be used to explore the effect of stress mindset (Positive, Negative) on change in stress level and cognitive performance.
The Attitudes Associated with Menstruation in College Women and Men [University of West Florida]
Authors: Nguyen Anna , Baldwin Kaitlyn , Wayer Sarah , Morrison Kira , Leclaire Shelby , Han Hui-Ya
Published: September 2020

Almost every woman will experience menstruation during her life. These women will not only experience the biological symptoms of menstruation, but they will also experience the social stigma surrounding menstruation. Many studies have been conducted to understand the stigma found in today’s society. These studies discuss the awareness levels of women and men regarding this stigma. Additionally, studies show that women and adolescent girls internalize this stigma and feel required to modify their behaviors to adapt to societal rules surrounding menstruation. The purpose of our research is to replicate these studies and to further explore the prevalence of and reasons for the stigma and individual perceptions surrounding the discussion of women’s menstrual cycles in college women and men. Additionally, unlike previous studies, our study will ask both women and men about how comfortable they are with discussing menstruation with a variety of groups, including their family members, members of the same or opposite sex, friends, and coworkers; their attitudes towards menstruation; and how the quality of their relationships affect their attitudes. For this study we will be using a self-reported survey with semi-structured and open-ended questions, in which both qualitative and quantitative data will be collected. We will then use this data to discern the most common reasons for stigma and discomfort, experienced by both sexes, regarding the topic of menstruation. We expect to find women are relatively comfortable discussing the topic of menstruation with other females, but become uncomfortable when males are present. We predict the majority of men are uncomfortable discussing the topic of menstruation in all scenarios, though some may be less stigmatized due to previous exposure to the topic through relationships with other women in their lives, and the quality of those relationships. Data will be collected and analyzed from January through March 2019.
Examining the Bystander Effect and Sexual Violence: Do Middle School Prevention Programs Work? [Russell Sage College]
Authors: Cardona Gabriela Beatriz , Napierski-Prancl Michelle
Published: September 2020

Since the horrific murder of Kitty Genovese in 1964, sociologists have been concerned with better understanding and hopefully, reducing incidents of the bystander effect. This study builds upon past work by examining the bystander effect in cases of sexual harassment and victimization with a focus on middle school students.  Given the #metoo movement, Christine Blasey Ford’s testimony against Judge Kavanaugh and the proposed changes to college campus policies on sexual assault proposed by Secretary of Education Betsy Devos, this study on sexual assault and the bystander effect is culturally relevant and timely. Past studies have found that prevention programs influence bystander participation. The research discovered that bystander participation varies depending on the diverse types of sexual assault and harassment. This research will examine the bystander effect in middle school adolescents dealing with sexual harassment, assault, or violence in schools. An analysis of adolescents’ belief on whether they can prevent sexual assault in their schools will be conducted. This research wishes to understand what characteristics contribute to students being active bystanders, someone who acts. The Experimental Evaluation of a Youth Dating Violence Prevention Program in NYC Middle Schools data set is utilized in this study. The sample size is 2,655 students from inner-city middle schools. All statistical analysis is conducted with SPSS. Chi-square, Gamma, and Cramer’s V are used to test statistical significance and strength of relationships. The results are interesting. Out of the seven hypotheses, three were found to be statistically significant. Gender, age, and in some cases attendance at a school prevention program had a significant effect on bystander intervention. In contrast, race and in other cases attendance at a school prevention program were not significant. The varying results towards student’s participation in prevention programs raises future questions on how prevention programs effect bystander effect.