bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiological Impacts of Anthropogenic-Induced Stressors on Freshwater Animals
Authors:   , Emadi Cameron M.
Published: October 2024

Each data chapter within this dissertation, while distinct in the stressor/combination of stressors, species under examination, and the purpose of the research effort, contributes to the unified objective of the dissertation: answering critical questions regarding the physiological effects of various environmental stressors on freshwater species. Results from data Chapter 2 indicate that adult Daphnia magna are more sensitive to lead exposure when co-exposed to percent air saturation approaching lethal levels of hypoxia. Moreover, increased hypoxia under control (no lead) conditions induced increased hemoglobin protein and mRNA expression, regardless of isoform transcript and typically in a dose-dependent manner for the latter. In Chapter 3 the maximum sustained swimming speeds (Ucrit) of several fish species of greatest conservation need at different temperatures (15, 22.5, and 30 °C) is assessed, providing valuable insights for site-specific calculations of culvert water velocities (Vf). Additional physiological endpoints of relevance to overall swimming performance were also measured, including maximum burst swimming (Umax), aerobic scope and cost of transport (COT). In Chapter 4 ammonia toxicity at different salinities to juvenile Macrobrachium rosenbergii is determined and real-time metabolic assessments as an effective detection method for perturbations in systems such as recirculating aquaculture systems is conducted. Although these chapters address distinct research topics, they collectively demonstrate the pivotal role of physiology in addressing complex issues related to human activity and environmental impacts. The dissertation's findings contribute novel information emphasizing the importance of understanding physiological responses in mitigating the impacts of anthropogenic activities on freshwater ecosystems.
Questions Involving Countable Intersection Games
Authors:   , Atchley James Holmes
Published: October 2024

We consider questions involving two different variations of Schmidt's game: the rho game and the HAW (Hyperplane Absolutely Winning) game.
Usage and Adoption of Patient Portals
Authors:   , Velverthi Navya Reddy
Published: October 2024

It is crucial to understand how patient portals are used and adopted among different population groups. This dissertation follows a traditional 5-chapter format that includes three studies with the results of each study presented in an essay format. The first essay provides a systematic literature review of existing research on patient portal adoption, barriers, and predictors. This review reveals a gap in knowledge regarding emerging adults who are transitioning from adult care to self-care settings. The second essay presents an emerging adult patient portal behavioral model, which identifies the factors that impact patient portal usage. Finally, the third essay focuses on patient's trust in providers in secure messaging, which is one of the features available through patient portals. The results of Essay 1 revealed gaps in the literature, highlighting the need for understanding the perceptions of different subgroups of the population towards patient portals to promote their meaningful use. The findings from Essay 2 show that perceived risk and perceived usefulness are significant determinants affecting the behavioral intentions of emerging adults toward the usage of patient portals. Essay 3 describes how information reliability, structural assurance, persuasiveness, perceived ease-of-use, and patients' trusting beliefs in providers are related to the patient's intentions to use secure messaging and patient portals. In addition to addressing existing research gaps, the results of the research in this dissertation inform healthcare providers and developers on how to improve patient portal adoption. By identifying the factors that impact patient portal usage, healthcare providers can optimize the benefits of patient portals for patients and healthcare organizations. Additionally, understanding patients' trust in providers in secure messaging can help improve communication and further lead to better health outcomes.
Optimizing Ultra-Broadband Microwave Radiation through Plasma Dynamics of USPL Filaments
Authors:   , Thornton Erin Ashley
Published: October 2024

Ultrashort pulse lasers focused in air result in plasma filaments that generate ultra-broadband secondary radiation that ranges from the megahertz to terahertz. The plasma currents responsible for the broadband radiation are the ponderomotive for the terahertz regime and the plasma wake surface wave (PWSW) for the gigahertz regime. Through experimental studies, I explore the optimization of microwave regime (1 - 67 GHz) of the spectrum. The experiments consider the effects of background gas and pressure in the filamentation region, pulse length of the laser, and wavelength of the laser on the plasma currents that produce the broadband radiated pulse. The results of the first experiment suggest that reduction of the electron-neutral collisions permits the growth of the PWSW and improve microwave amplitude. The second experiment demonstrates a growth in resulting microwave signal as a result of collisional processes driven by longer pulse durations. The final experiment demonstrates and order of magnitude increase in the microwave field amplitudes when the wavelength of a picosecond scale, terawatt class laser pulse is increased from 1.035 microns to 9.2 microns.
Organ Music Before J. S. Bach: An Anthology with Pedagogical and Historical Rationale
Authors:   , Kim Hyejung
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this dissertation is to compile an anthology of organ literature that serves as both a repertoire and study guide for each included piece, suitable for any undergraduate organ literature class. This dissertation will present the pedagogical and historical justifications for the selected repertoire and offer a detailed rationale for the project. Understanding the rich traditions in organ literature is challenging without a fundamental knowledge of the history of organ music. Music score anthologies are essential in undergraduate music studies. However, at present, there is a notable absence of anthologies specifically designed for organ literature classes. This anthology seeks to fill this void by providing students with straightforward access to diverse musical works, complemented by detailed background information and supplementary resources. To ensure complete accessibility, all musical examples are presented with newly edited full scores.
An Evaluation of a Brief Podcast to Teach Caregivers to Use Positive Reinforcement with Children with Autism
Authors:   , Moslemi Setareh Dehghani
Published: October 2024

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the gold standard treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and caregivers can learn to use ABA strategies to teach skills to their children with ASD. However, some families may not be able to access synchronous training due to cost, time, or location. Asynchronous modalities, such as DVDs or internet modules, remove some of these barriers. Other asynchronous options like podcasts need additional efficacy research. We evaluated a brief podcast about positive reinforcement with three caregivers and their children with ASD. We measured correct implementation of positive reinforcement and percentage correct on a multiple-choice quiz. The caregiver's implementation of positive reinforcement was assessed with a confederate and their child before and after listening to the podcast. If the caregiver's performance did not reach the mastery criterion, we provided modeling and coaching. Two of the caregivers implemented positive reinforcement at mastery after listening to the podcast. One caregiver needed modeling and coaching. All three responded correctly to more questions on the quiz after the podcast. These preliminary data suggest that a podcast may teach ABA strategies like positive reinforcement to caregivers of children with ASD, which could reduce some barriers to accessing training.
The Birth of Energy from the Spirit of Revenge: On the Genealogy of the Concept of 'Energy' and Its Relation to Time
Authors:   , Brea Pedro
Published: October 2024

I develop a genealogy of the concept of ‘energy' in western philosophy and science, focusing on how energy concepts (e.g., energeia, vis viva, kinetic/potential energy) have been theorized in relation to time. Looking especially to the ideas of Gilles Deleuze, Henri Bergson, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Martin Heidegger, I argue that the thread that connects energy concepts through time is the epistemological tendency to derive conceptual accounts of change from a prior ontological sameness or essence. I then attempt to lay the groundwork for a process metaphysics that harmonizes with contemporary findings in the physical sciences, while also extending the concept of energy to account for the presence of subjectivity in nature.
Bio-Inspired Self-Flowing Wood Treatment
Authors:   , Wang Xuan
Published: October 2024

Wood chemical treatment is an important process in the wood industry, in that such treatment alters the properties of wood so that a variety of wood-based products can be fabricated with enhanced performance. However, wood's complex composition and structure make it difficult to achieve consistent and controllable treatment. An innovative self-flowing process presented for the chemical treatment of wood is inspired by liquid transportation in trees. Effectiveness of the self-flowing process is evaluated and compared to conventional immersion and vacuum wood treatment methods. The self-flowing process allows a more uniform wood treatment compared to that from the immersion and vacuum pressure methods. Lignin content after self-flowing delignification is below 5% with a standard deviation of 0.7, compared to ~20% with a standard deviation of 8 for both immersion and vacuum pressure methods. The self-flowing process allows 100% chemical impregnation depth for the preservation treatment. A mathematical model was developed to simulate the self-flowing process. This model can accurately predict the treatment time required for achieving desired results under various conditions, including temperature, wood density, and liquid properties. This work demonstrates that the self-flowing treatment is a highly efficient, cost-effective, and reliable method in wood preservation and modification industries.
Navigating the Complexities of Supply Chain Management with Systems Thinking: A Comprehensive Review, Comparative Analysis, and Holistic Approach
Authors:   , Rana Rishabh
Published: October 2024

This dissertation focuses on understanding the impact of systems thinking on supply chain management. The first essay presents a systematic literature review, examining the current state of systems thinking research within the context of supply chain management. It explores the similarities and differences in various studies, identifies research gaps, and outlines future opportunities in the field. The second essay investigates the current state of systems thinking in individuals working in supply chains at different stages of their careers. This is achieved through the use of a specially created game called the systems thinking game. The game is designed to assess and enhance systems thinking skills among supply chain professionals. The findings from this study provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of interactive learning tools in developing systems thinking abilities and suggest ways to incorporate these tools into professional development programs. The third essay explores the holistic management of supply chain complexity, emphasizing its critical impact on business performance, including lead times, costs, and operational efficiencies. It highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to foster innovation and adaptability in response to rapid market changes and technological advancements. By addressing detail and dynamic complexities and leveraging advanced information systems, the essay demonstrates how holistic management and technical skills can enhance decision-making processes, leading to improved supply chain performance and resilience. Overall, this dissertation aims to bridge the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical applications of systems thinking in supply chain management, providing a holistic approach to understanding and managing supply chain complexities.
Social Engineering Attacks and Online Sex Trafficking
Authors:   , Srivastava Smriti
Published: October 2024

This dissertation investigates the relationship between social engineering tactics and the facilitation of online sex trafficking, with a focus on prevention strategies. First, the impact of parenting strategies on adolescent run-away behavior, focusing on both physical and online dimensions is explored. Drawing on existing literature, we investigate how parental responsiveness and psychological control influence adolescents' perceptions and behaviors related to physical and online runaway tendencies. The study highlights the nuanced role of parental strategies, emphasizing the importance of coherence and alignment in parental communication to mitigate the risks associated with adolescent runaway behavior. Second, this research investigates how heuristic (e.g., social cues), systematic (e.g., informativeness, persuasiveness) factors and personality impact susceptibility to deceptive job posts. Using the heuristic-systematic model and an experimental design, it examines how these factors influence the likelihood of falling victim to fraudulent job offers on social media, particularly Instagram. Then, objectives are developed to combat online sex trafficking using standpoint theory and value focused thinking. This study prioritizes marginalized perspectives and employs value focused thinking to integrate stakeholder values in the decision-making process to ensure a safer digital environment.
Identifying Upland Habitats and Water-Related Habitats in the City of Denton, Texas, Using LiDAR Data and GIS
Authors:   , Thapaliya Prashant
Published: October 2024

This research underscores the importance of integrating the evolving LiDAR technology and GIS spatial analysis for effective management of urban environment, habitat conservation, and sustainable development planning. The study area of this research is the City of Denton which has undergone urban expansion leading to significant alterations in the city's land cover patterns. The methodologies developed in this study include collecting the data sources, and processing of LiDAR point clouds of years 2019 and 2020 to generate the digital elevation model (DEM), digital surface model (DSM), building height model (BHM), and canopy height model (CHM). The models could separate developed from undeveloped lands and identify upland and water-related habitats by the natural threshold in plant height and by proximity to water and FEMA 100-year flood zones. The results show that 18 % of the total area of the city is occupied by upland habitats while water-related habitats cover 16 % of the total area. Upland habitats are typically found in undeveloped areas outside the region of a 100-year flood zone, while water-related habitats are situated near lakes, streams, wetlands, and other water bodies. To verify the accuracy of the mapped habitats, accuracy assessment and field verification were conducted, which confirmed their accurate mapping. This research enables the identification of these habitats and underscores the significance of employing spatial analysis techniques in urban planning.
Collaborative Mobile System Design, Evaluation, and Applications
Authors:   , Zhang Jinran
Published: October 2024

This dissertation explores the integration and optimization of advanced communication technologies within the collaborative mobile system (CMS), focusing on the system design, implementation, and evaluation over unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Collectively, this dissertation tackles the key challenges of connectivity and performance within CMS. This work demonstrates practical implementations and sheds light on the challenges and opportunities for CMS. The dissertation emphasizes the importance of adaptability and scalability in network design and implementation, particularly in leveraging the integration of hardware and software to adapt to promising architectures. By providing insights into performance under real-world conditions, this work explores the interplay of innovations in UAVs, mobile communications, network architecture, and system performance, paving the way for future network investigation and development.
Assessing Procedural Fidelity with Multiple Measurement Systems during Simulated Live Sessions
Authors:   , Resendez Walberto Jaime
Published: October 2024

Measuring procedural fidelity helps behavior analysts assess staff performance and make decisions about a treatment's effectiveness. However, there is limited research comparing different methods of measuring procedural fidelity. Therefore, we systematically replicated a study that examined how procedural fidelity of discrete-trial-instruction sessions varies depending on the measurement system and calculation. We scored videos depicting behavior technicians conducting discrete-trial instruction with a child with autism and did not permit data collectors to pause, rewind, or fast-forward to simulate a live session. Specifically, we compared individual-component and global fidelity from the occurrence/nonoccurrence method and all-or-nothing by component method. Like previous research has demonstrated, our findings indicated that global values were likely to mask component errors, whereas the all-or-nothing by component method was less likely to do so. When data collected in the current study was compared to those in previous research, interobserver agreement was high for both occurrence/nonoccurrence and all-or-nothing by component methods. Overall, the procedural-fidelity values obtained from each study differed minimally. These results suggest that both measurement methods yield consistent results whether derived from recorded sessions with the ability to pause, rewind, and fast-forward or simulated live sessions. Differences that were obtained are discussed in detail with particular emphasis on connecting our findings to the utility of procedural-fidelity assessment in practice.
Multiculturally and Historically Designed Child-Centered Play Therapy Rooms: A Comparison Study
Authors:   , Turner Krystal K.
Published: October 2024

The primary goal of this pilot study was to compare the frequency of which children explore items, and engage in cultural conversations and verbalizations (COBV) in a multiculturally designed play therapy room (MCP) versus a historically recommended play therapy room (HRP). A quasi-experimental comparison group design was used to observe differences between the play therapy rooms. Participants consisted of 32 children with varying cultural identity makers, including age (M = 6.31, SD = 2), race, and gender. Children were recruited from two campus-based university therapeutic clinics and one early childhood education program. Results of independent samples t-tests indicated a statistically significant difference between mean scores of cultural behaviors exhibited in MCPs when compared to HRPs with a large effect size. Furthermore, a moderate practical significance was found between the mean difference in cultural verbalizations found in MCPs when compared to HRPs. Correlational analyses exploring the child's age, both the child's and therapist's gender, and the three dependent variables exposed significant relationships between the child's age and frequency of items used, child's gender and number of cultural verbalizations, number of cultural verbalizations and cultural behaviors. Results from group analyses revealed a statistically significant difference between the therapist's race on number of cultural verbalizations with a large effect. Results from the present study influenced implications for practice such as utilizing intentional selection of cultural toys, and research implications such as a replication study using a randomized controlled trial to encourage generalizability.
Practical vs Liberal Arts: A Panel Analysis of Degree Type Awards at Regional Comprehensive Universities
Authors:   , McClendon Mark Bradley
Published: October 2024

The goal of this research was to explore the relationship between the undergraduate degree profile (practical vs. liberal arts) and environmental factors (institutional and state level) at regional comprehensive universities (RCUs) from 2006-2020. Neoliberal policies have dominated the higher education environment for the last 40 years and this has increased the pressure on institutions. RCUs represent a subset of the higher education population that have historically been responsive to environmental changes. They also tend to be more tuition dependent. This study examined the changes in the degree production and funding at RCUs and utilized a fixed effects panel analysis to estimate the relationship between changes in the degree production and environmental factors at the institutional and state level. RCUs have experienced an increase in the percentage of practical arts degrees awarded and in their tuition dependence. However, tuition dependence was not shown to have a significant impact on the degree production. Several institutional factors and state factors were shown to be significantly related to increases in practical arts degree production. Institutions with the highest increases in the percentage of practical degrees also had increases in tuition revenue per (full time equivalent) FTE 12-month. At the state-level, unemployment rate, the percentage of college education people and increases in personal income were correlated with increases in practical arts production.
Effects of Cattle Disturbance on Aquatic Macroinvertebrates in Missouri Farm Ponds
Authors:   , Mittelhauser Jennifer
Published: October 2024

I surveyed macroinvertebrate assemblages in ponds in three grazing regimes (ungrazed, rotationally grazed, and continuously grazed) in spring and summer of 2019 on the Osage Plains ecoregion of Missouri. Total suspended solids, turbidity, and organophosphates were lower in ungrazed ponds than in both grazed treatments, and water transparency and aquatic macrophyte cover was significantly higher. Richness was positively correlated with average depth, deepest depth, and water transparency and negatively correlated with turbidity and organophosphate levels. Overall, ungrazed ponds supported higher taxa richness and diversity across all taxa, as well as higher Diptera: Chironomidae, Odonata, and Trichoptera richness. Ungrazed ponds contained 29 unique genera and three unique families compared to two unique genera and two families in rotationally grazed ponds, and one 6 unique genera and one family in continuously grazed units. PerMANOVA results confirmed differences in habitat variables between ungrazed treatments and both grazed treatments; PCA analysis indicated that decreased taxa abundances were mostly associated with nitrate, bank slope, temperature, and pH and, while transparency and vegetation (emergent and cattails) were associated with increased abundances. PerMANOVA results confirmed seasonal differences in ungrazed ponds and continuously grazed treatments for total taxa and families. Chironomid communities differed between treatments and between seasons for ungrazed ponds and both grazing treatments. Fish presence reduced abundance of total taxa across seasons and in spring and Chironomidae taxa across seasons.
When Nature Calls: Acoustical Measures of Biodiversity and Naturalness in an Urban/Peri-Urban Landscape
Authors:   , Fields Miranda Catherine
Published: October 2024

Urban acoustic ecology is an emerging field focused on furthering our understanding of how the sounds within urban development impact the surrounding soundscape and biodiversity. Human noise, otherwise known as anthrophonies, are known to negatively impact wildlife by impeding communication and lowering species richness. With urban population expected to grow profoundly within the next 30 years, it is critical to explore the acoustical relationship between the environment and wildlife for future management and urban development planning. I investigated how the physical landscape impacts the urban/peri-urban soundscape through acoustic indices within the greenspaces of Denton, Texas. Specifically, I found that the percentage of impervious surfaces have a significant negative impact on the coefficient of variation of the acoustic index ADI (Acoustic Diversity Index). ADI is used to calculate the occupancy of sounds within a frequency wave. Further, I investigated how the combination of landscape characteristics and acoustic indices predict avian species richness and rarity. My results show that richness and rarity was positively related to ADI; on the other hand, a soundscape with higher ADI (CV) scores, meaning consistent anthrophonies such as distance vehicle traffic, was related to higher richness and rarity. My research indicates that there is a relationship between the physical environment, ADI, and avian richness and rarity which showcases how acoustic monitoring can be a valuable tool for management and development protocols.
Comprehensive Evaluation of VA-Developed PTSD Apps: A Systematic Review, MARS Scale Assessment, and User Review Analysis through Thematic and Path Analysis
Authors:   , Esener Yeter Yildiz
Published: October 2024

Mobile technology is increasingly leveraged for mental health interventions, with users expressing overall satisfaction and finding the apps helpful and user-friendly. While the apps offer diverse features for symptom management, self-help, and treatment support, evidence regarding their effectiveness remains limited, suggesting a need for further research. Usability, engagement, and tailoring to user preferences emerge as critical factors, emphasizing the importance of customization for different populations. This research presented a systematic literature review aimed at evaluating studies specifically focusing on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) apps, with a subsequent quality assessment using the MARS scale. Additionally, the research involves an in-depth analysis of user reviews for these PTSD apps through thematic, and path analysis. The technology acceptance model (TAM) model serves as the framework for path analysis, and the performance of VADER, Flair, and TextBlob is evaluated. Sentiment analysis is then employed to explore relationships among TAM model factors and additional factors derived from the systematic literature review and thematic analysis. In conclusion, this dissertation contributes to the understanding of PTSD apps, their usability, and their potential for mental health support. It underscores the need for further research, customization, and ongoing collaboration to optimize the effectiveness of these applications in managing PTSD symptoms and supporting individuals in their mental health journey.
RNA Sequencing of Mechanically Modulated A549 Cells
Authors:   , Hessami Ala
Published: October 2024

Mechanical stiffening of the interstitial space in the lung – the protein-rich extracellular space between the alveoli and capillaries – plays an important role in modulating epithelial cell behaviors that contribute to cancer and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) disease etiologies. However, the effects of substrate stiffness and breathing-like stretch are not well understood in the context of cancer. In this thesis project, we utilize RNA sequencing to understand how the mechanical properties of extracellular environments modulate cancer related cells. To accomplish this goal, we examined the behavior of lung cancer derived A549 cells, cells that have epithelial lineages, on a biomimetic lung-on-a-chip devices. Importantly, our biomimetic devices allow us to modulate the stiffness of the interstitial space to have soft properties similar to those observed in healthy lung and stiff properties mimicking fibrotic tissues. After growing A549 cells on our biomimetic devices and plastic plate controls, we extracted and purified RNA for mRNA sequencing to examine differential gene expression. Subsequent gene ontology analysis found that differentially expressed genes are involved in cell cycle, metabolism, and cell migration. Connecting these pathways using KEGG analysis we identified pathways of downregulated or upregulated genes related to cancer and metastasis. Based on these results, changes in the interstitial stiffness surrounding A549 cells can change their behaviors and lead to activation of cancer pathways.
Exploring the Interdependence, Overselectivity, and Quantification of Emergent Verbal Behavior
Authors:   , Otero Maria Jose
Published: October 2024

We aimed to develop and validate a multidimensional framework for analyzing complex verbal behavior. This involved introducing and demonstrating the use of multiaxial radar charts for visualizing and quantifying the interdependence of elementary verbal operants. Next, we extended the application of radar charts to the broader field of behavior analysis, emphasizing their utility in measuring and understanding complex human behavior. Last, we apply these methodologies to practical scenarios involving children with autism spectrum disorder to assess and address verbal behavior deficits within diverse linguistic contexts. By integrating these objectives, we enhance the understanding of verbal behavior's functional interdependence and its emergent properties. We posit that a multidimensional approach, facilitated by innovative graphical and quantitative tools, provides a more comprehensive and accurate analysis of verbal behavior, leading to improved intervention strategies for individuals with language deficits. This work not only contributes to the theoretical foundations of behavior analysis but also offers practical applications for enhancing language development in diverse populations.
Cultural Humility, Cultural Comfort, and the Therapeutic Relationship in Play Therapy
Authors:   , Aguilar Elizabeth
Published: October 2024

The current study is the first to explore the role of cultural humility, cultural comfort, and the therapeutic relationship in play therapy. Participants consisted of 69 parent-therapist dyads recruited from university clinics, private practices, and a non-profit counseling center in the southwestern United States. Parents completed a demographic questionnaire, Cultural Humility Scale, Therapist Cultural Comfort Scale, and Barrett-Lennard Relationship Inventory – Other to Self 40 (BLRI OS – 40). Play therapists completed a demographic questionnaire and BLRI MO – 40. A multiple regression analysis indicated that after controlling for the race/ethnicity of both play therapist and parent, parents' perceptions of play therapists' cultural humility and cultural comfort predicted parents' perception of their therapeutic relationship with their child's play therapist. Additionally, exploratory analyses suggested that when therapists report the occurrence of cultural conversation in parent consultations there may be an increase in parent-reported therapeutic relationship scores. However, when also controlling for the child's race/ethnicity, cultural humility and cultural comfort did not have a statistically significant impact on the play therapist's perception of the therapeutic relationship with their child client. These findings underscore the significance of play therapists' cultural humility and cultural comfort on the development of a strong therapeutic relationship with parents of children in play therapy. Limitations and implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Diversity Patterns of Chilean Tardigrades: Exploring Alpha and Beta Diversities at Multiple Spatial Scales
Authors:   , Mohanan Arya
Published: October 2024

Tardigrades are microscopic organisms found in both terrestrial and aquatic environments, adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions. Despite their adaptability, tardigrade ecology, particularly their spatial distribution, remains an understudied topic. In this study, we provide a brief overview of tardigrades identified from 26 forests in Southern Chile. We represent tardigrades using Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) and examine their spatial distribution across multiple spatial scales. The finer scale involves individual samples (3 x 3 cm, ~9 cm2), while the larger scale encompasses the entire site from which samples were collected (10 x 10 km, 100 km2). We assessed both alpha and beta diversity at these finer and larger scales to determine the impact of these scales on their distribution. Additionally, we assessed whether geographical distances influence species turnover. Our results indicate that the composition and the assemblages of tardigrades varies greatly among samples and among sites. Different sites and scales significantly impact the spatial distribution of tardigrades. Moreover, we found nestedness was low but turnover was high across all the sites, and that geographical distance among sites does not impact turnover. Investigating how tardigrade diversity varies with scale, enhances our understanding of ecological dynamics.
Diversity Patterns of Tardigrade Assemblages in Forested Landscape of Southern Chile: Associations and Biogeographical Implications
Authors:   , Mahawaththa Wathiyage Ishani Chamishka Mahawaththa
Published: October 2024

In the Neotropical realm, little is yet known about the distribution, ecology, and biodiversity of limno-terrestrial tardigrades. Tardigrades are understudied micrometazoans and, in Chile, their biogeography and the variables that are associated with their diversity have never been recorded. This study proposes to examine the assemblages (composition and abundance) of tardigrades in forests throughout southern Chile and relate the patterns found to latitude, altitude, temperature, precipitation, primary productivity, and land use cover. This novel study shows basic information on the biogeographical distribution and diversity of forest Chilean tardigrades and examines the potential influence of landscape variables on the composition and abundance of this little-known phylum. Using univariate and direct gradient analysis, it was found that tardigrade alpha diversity was mainly effected by precipitation, mean monthly minimum, and maximum temperature; also, the combined effects of precipitation and mean monthly maximum temperature, precipitation, and mean monthly minimum temperature, had an interactive effect on tardigrade alpha diversity. The environmental and geographic variables explained the variation in the community structure of tardigrades. Overall, this study has given first insight into Chilean tardigrade ecology.
Scale Invariant Equations and Their Modified EM Algorithm for Estimating a Two-Component Mixture Model
Authors:   , Ukenazor Ifeanyichukwu Valentine
Published: October 2024

In this work, we propose a novel two-component mixture model: the first component is the three-parameter generalized Gaussian distribution (GGD), and the second is a new three-parameter family of positive densities on the real line. The novelty of our mixture model is that we allow the two components to have totally different parametric families of distributions with asymmetric tails of the mixture density. We extend the scale invariant variable fractional moments (SIVFM) method proposed by Song for the GGD to the parameter estimation of our mixture model. We show that the SIVFM population and sample equations for the second component share very similar desirable global properties such as convexity and unique global roots as those for the GGD given in earlier research. The two-component mixing of these properties make the SIVFM mixture population and estimation equations well-behaved resulting in easy to compute estimators without the issue with starting values. The asymptotic results such as consistency and limiting distribution of the estimators are presented. Furthermore, SIVFM estimators can also serve as a consistent initial estimator for the EM algorithm leading to improved accuracy of the EM algorithm. These algorithms are applied to the analysis of the average amount of precipitation (rainfall) for each of 70 United States (and Puerto Rican) cities clearly demonstrating the bimodal distribution of the estimated mixture density.
Achieving Greater Tornado Resilience: Investigating Perceptions of Anchoring Systems among Mobile/Manufactured Homeowners
Authors:   , Kelly Ruxton Samuel
Published: October 2024

Changing weather patterns have led to an increase in the frequency of tornadoes in the socially vulnerable southeast United States. This is concerning to manufactured and mobile homeowners, as these structures are highly vulnerable to tornado impacts. In recent years, the installation of ground anchors on manufactured and mobile homes (MMHs) has emerged as a strategy to mitigate against risks posed by tornadoes and high winds. Although these systems decrease horizontal movement and rollover potential in an MMH, they are not uniformly used throughout the region. This study uses protective motivation theory (PMT) to investigate perceptions of ground anchors among MMH owners. Specifically, this research identifies types of knowledge and experience salient in the context of anchoring and describes the factors that inform residents' threat and coping appraisals in weighing the decision to anchor their MMH. Results showed that participants' previous direct and indirect experience with wind hazard events, coupled with impacts from direct and indirect damage were most salient to anchoring decisions. The experience of psychological trauma from severe weather played a secondary contributing role. Furthermore, among the factors theorized to shape MMH owners' threat and coping appraisals, results showed that hazard severity, vulnerability, and anchoring response cost were most prominently discussed in considering whether to install an anchoring system. Findings from this study could improve the design of educational campaigns about tornado resilience and MMH anchoring.
Assessment of Climate Change Impacts in Birendra Glacial Lake, Nepal
Authors:   , Bhattarai Injal
Published: October 2024

This study was done on 86 images from Landsat 5 and 8 from the years 1990 to 2023, and emphasized the spatial change of Birendra Lake. The Otsu method was used on the normalized difference water index (NDWI), modified normalized difference water index 1 and 2 (MNDWI), and automated water extraction index (AWEI) for this study. The area of Birendra Glacial Lake area grew significantly between 1990 and 2023 (94,500 m2 to 222,300 m2) because of climate change. The mean annual temperature was increasing at a rate of 0.024 °C every year and the total precipitation was increasing at a rate of 14.531 mm every year. The increase in the snow depth from 1999 to 2007 was observed and the snow cover from 2011 to 2020 was also found to be increasing. The lake area was validated by using the KNN method. The lake area from Google Earth was found to be 246,060 m2 on 10/07/2013 while from the Otsu method, the lake area for the date 10/24/2013 was 222300 m2. A relative error of 10.69% was found when the result obtained from the Otsu method was compared with the result from the KNN method. Furthermore, a comprehensive study including a field survey of the lake is suggested for more accuracy.
Hungers and Desires: Excavating and Creating Queer Food Histories on the Borderlands
Authors:   , Lopez Joshua Isaiah
Published: October 2024

Hungers and Desires: Excavating and Creating Queer Food Histories on the Borderlands creates a conversation between queer studies and food studies. It is divided into two parts, (I) Excavating and (II) Creating, each representing an engagement with historical methods. First, it offers a framework for reading food practices in the field of LGBTQ history, and queer studies, more broadly. Then, it excavates past food practices hidden within the LGBTQ archives in El Paso, Texas and applies the framework. By centering food practices in an analysis of LGBTQ documentary sources, hidden histories of care, labor, community building, and agency become visible. Then, this dissertation shares queer food history sources created through oral history methods. The interviews document how some gay men and lesbians in El Paso, Texas think about and relate to food. Taken together, the two parts illustrate how queer studies and food studies can engage with one another more deeply.
Establishing Social Stimuli as a Conditioned Reinforcer in Children with Autism
Authors:   , Ervay Kaylin Brianne
Published: October 2024

Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are characterized by social-communicative deficits that impair important areas of functioning. Behavior analytic interventions frequently focus on providing support and enhancing social-communicative behavior in individuals with ASD. As part of these interventions, conditioning procedures are often implemented to establish social stimuli as reinforcers and promote skill acquisition. The current study systematically replicated and extended the work of Lapin and evaluated the effects of an operant discrimination training (ODT) procedure on behavioral correlates theorized to be indicative of a high-quality relationship and therapeutic rapport between client and therapist. Two child-therapist dyads that consisted of children diagnosed with ASD and registered behavior technicians (RBTs) participated. Results indicated that the ODT procedure yielded positive changes in smiling across both dyads, with idiosyncratic changes in physical contact, approach, pointing, and showing. These findings suggest that ODT procedures may be an effective method for enhancing therapeutic rapport and promoting early social behaviors in children with ASD.
Point of Departure: A Method for Teaching Improvisation Using Four-Mallet Marimba Literature for the High School Percussionist
Authors:   , Siegel Nathan Elliot
Published: October 2024

This dissertation introduces a method of melodic improvisation that is designed for the high school percussionist. Teaching improvisation to the modern music student can be challenging, as the concept of creating music spontaneously is unfamiliar to the typical music student. While improvisation techniques exist within jazz education, some students are overwhelmed by the complex harmony and sheer amount of study and practice that is required to improvise within the style of jazz. This dissertation proposes a method of improvising that incorporates commonly known four-mallet marimba repertoire as a point of departure for improvisation. Utilizing ideas from ethnomusicologist Bruno Nettl (b. 1930-2020) and music researcher Jeff Pressing (b.1949-2002), I have crafted a pedagogical method for improvising at the marimba that is accessible to the high school percussionist. Five marimba solos are be used as examples in this document and the accompanying lecture recital to demonstrate how this method functions. The goal for this project is to give percussionists an obtainable way to begin improvising at the marimba utilizing music that they are already comfortable playing. It is important to note that when the term "music student" without further specification, I am referring to a high school musician who studies classical music in the United States.
Development of a Multidimensional Measure of Vaping Dependence
Authors:   , Vilches Joseph
Published: October 2024

Currently, there is no comprehensive instrument that accounts for all the proposed aspects of vaping dependence simultaneously, nor do current instruments routinely account for factors that may be more unique to vaping dependence. Therefore, the current study addresses these concerns by developing a new multidimensional self-report instrument of vaping dependence. Using guidance from the literature together with expert recommendations, an initial item pool was generated and evaluated. Participants were recruited via Amazon Mechanical Turk, and data was collected via Qualtrics. Data was split into a subsample for exploratory factor analysis (EFA; to determine the latent structure of the proposed instrument) and a subsample for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA; to validate the model structure). EFA suggested a 4-factor model, which was supported by subsequent CFA. These factors were interpreted as: physiological dependence, vaping preoccupation, vaping reinforcement, and loss of control. Data was then reintegrated, and the measure's psychometric properties were evaluated in the overall sample. The total scale and each subscale of the instrument (the Multidimensional Vaping Dependence Index) displayed adequate internal consistency, as well as convergent, discriminant, concurrent, and incremental validity.
Application of Genetic Algorithm in Designing Matching and Decoupling Networks for Asymmetric Two-Element Antenna Arrays
Authors:   , Chakma Nishako
Published: October 2024

In this thesis, I demonstrate a genetic-algorithm-based optimization method for designing matching and decoupling networks (MDNs) for asymmetric two-element antenna arrays. The proposed method considers practical aspects in MDN realization by accounting for short pieces of transmission lines between the lumped elements and only using capacitor/inductor values from a predefined database of commercially available lumped component values. In addition, the proposed algorithm is able to explore all subsets of a general MDN topology in its search for a solution, providing some flexibility for system optimization (e.g., reducing the number of lumped elements used in an MDN). Details about the proposed approach along with performance analysis of four design examples based on this method are presented. One of the designs was fabricated and measured to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design method. Chapter 1 provides the motivation and context for this work with relevant literature review and objectives of this thesis. Chapter 2 reviews existing MDN design techniques and discusses practical design considerations for the proposed method. Chapter 3 briefly discusses the basics of genetic algorithm (GA) and its relevance to this work. Chapter 4 presents the method proposed in my thesis work and describes how the genetic algorithm is implemented for designing MDNs for asymmetric two-element antenna arrays. Chapter 5 reports the details of four different MDN design examples along with their simulation and measurement results. Chapter 6 concludes the thesis work and discusses potential future development to further advance this work.