bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling transportation impacts of natural disasters
Authors:   , Chang Daeyeol
Published: May 2022

Natural disasters such as hurricanes and pandemics cause significant disruption in people's lives. This research aims to model such disasters' transportation impacts using state-of-the-art simulation methods, statistical and machine learning algorithms. Specifically, two case studies of disasters were studied. First, the effects of various travel demand management and network control strategies on hurricane evacuation of the Hampton Roads region in Virginia were modeled. A mesoscopic simulation model was updated using demand data generated from a household survey effort. The results indicated that phased evacuation scenarios performed the best in terms of travel times, evacuating volumes, and clearance times. Also, the use of lane-reversal on a major interstate evacuation route was shown to be effective in several scenarios. The household survey also asked respondents to provide their preferred route types in the event of a hypothetical Category 4 hurricane evacuation. The responses were used to understand better which factors contribute to evacuees selecting freeway vs. non-freeway evacuation routes. A mixed (random parameters) logit model was developed to determine factors that influence evacuees deciding between a freeway and a non-freeway route. The study found that several factors contribute to evacuees choosing a freeway over other routes. In the descending order of importance (i.e., marginal effects), these factors are willing to use the official recommended route, living in a single-family or duplex housing, expected travel time to reach the destination, being employed, and possessing prior evacuation experience. Conversely, a few factors had a negative effect on choosing a freeway. These factors are willingness to evacuate two days before landfall and evacuating to a public shelter or a second home. This study's findings can help emergency management and transportation agencies design effective demand management and traffic control plans to evacuate regions during a hurricane safely. The second case study involved the modeling of travel impacts of COVID-19 pandemic. Using New York County (i.e. Manhattan) as an example, publicly available location-based mobility data from Google and COVID-19 data from government sources were used to build mobility prediction models. Three machine learning algorithms, Regression Tree, Random Forest, and Extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) were used to develop different models. Among the three models, the Random Forest models performed the best at predicting mobility index with mean absolute percentage errors of 5.3 percent and 5.8 percent at transit stations, 6.5 percent and 7.1 percent for retail and recreation activities. These models enable accurate forecasting of expected mobility by taking into account time series data of activity and COVID variables.
The moderating role of behavioral self-regulation in relations between neighborhood connection and adolescents' positive adjustment
Authors:   , Elison Madison
Published: May 2022

The current study directly and longitudinally tested relational-developmental systems theories by analyzing whether neighborhood connection facilitates school engagement, self-esteem, and prosocial behavior depending on adolescents' behavioral self-regulation. Participants included 500 U.S. adolescents age 12 at Time 1 and age 16 at Time 2 (67.2 percent White; 77 percent from two-parent households; 119,000 USD average household income). Neighborhood connection at age 12 predicted self-esteem at age 16 for adolescents who reported low behavioral self-regulation at age 12. Behavioral self-regulation did not moderate relations between neighborhood connection and self-esteem for those who reported moderate to high behavioral self-regulation. Behavioral self-regulation did not moderate relations between neighborhood connection and prosocial behavior or school engagement. Aligned with relation-developmental systems theories, neighborhood connection facilitated positive personal adjustment among adolescents at-risk due to low behavioral self-regulation. I contextualize my findings within the extant literature, discuss the present study's limitations, and suggest directions for future research.
"It's all country boys:" rural young male perceptions of risk and protective factors for dating violence and technology-based interventions as an acceptable response
Authors:   , Emezue Chuka Nestor
Published: May 2022

In 2019, one in eight US teens reported experiencing Teen Dating Violence (TDV) as physical, psychological, sexual, and online abuse. Studies show rural youth report up to twice the physical violence rates of urban youth but remain grossly undersampled and understudied, particularly rural young males. The Health-e BROs! Study (Better & Healthy Relationship Outcomes) was designed to begin to address this gap. An understudied aspect of dating violence prevention is young people's perception and communication of risks associated with TDV victimization and perpetration. Overall, 14 rural young males participated in three online focus groups, and another 13 completed phone interviews stratified by age - 15-17 (middle adolescents) and 18-24 (emerging adults). In this dissertation, two specific aims were addressed using distinct analytical approaches. First, using an interpretive and dialectical approach grounded in relational dialectics theory (RDT), this study explored TDV risk communication and risk perceptions among rural young males (ages 15-24). Our interpretive analysis identified two main themes of risk and protection dialectics: (1) Dialectics of Social Tensions and (2) Dialectics of Help-Seeking & Help-Giving. Within each main theme, constitutive sub-themes are described as dialectics accompanied by participant quotes. Dialectical tensions and contradictions were used as a heuristic framework. Our second aim investigated: (a) what rural male youth consider useful content, resources, and features in app-based dating violence prevention intervention and (b) unmet needs related to barriers and facilitators for using this type of intervention in rural contexts. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) guided the second aim, and a qualitative descriptive approach was used to analyze this aim. Findings bear implications for advocates and practitioners working with rural youth in planning developmentally and culturally appropriate anti-TDV programs and will yield intervention, policy, and for researchers by providing a broader framework for the development of theory and effective violence prevention practice in low-income, rural contexts.
Probing synthesis of L-ascorbic acid in arabidopsis thaliana genotypes
Authors:   , Foley Katherine
Published: May 2022

L-Ascorbic acid (L-AsA), also known as vitamin C, is a crucial vitamin for both plants and animals due to its antioxidant properties and abilities to scavenge harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, some animals such as humans lost the ability to synthesize their own L-AsA and must therefore fulfill their nutrient requirements via dietary uptake. With increasing global demand for food, studies into methods of increasing L-AsA in crops and determining how environmental stressors can affect the biosynthesis and pool size of L-AsA represent an important and growing field. Herein, quantitative enzymatic UV/Vis measurements and qualitative 13C NMR studies are used with A. thaliana plant tissues to explore biosynthesis of L-AsA. First, studies were done to adapt procedures established within the L-AsA research community for our uses. These experiments resulted in our experimental method of analyzing L-AsA in leaf tissue of leaves 6 -- 13 in 7.5-week-old A. thaliana plants of three genotypes: wt, vtc1-1, and MIOX4. Using this, the L-AsA content of A. thaliana leaves of three genotypes was investigated to provide a baseline for feeding experiments. Then, endogenous L-AsA was measured following individual leaf feeding studies of solutions of L-AsA or its precursors, L-gulono-1,4-lactone (L-GulL) and L-galactono-1,4-lactone (L-GalL), with preliminary tests being done with 13C-labeled L-AsA and L-GulL. Lastly, MIOX4 leaves were discovered to possess elevated L-AsA content beyond a certain developmental stage. This suggests developmental stage as a contributing factor to why certain groups do not see elevated content while others see significant increases.
The first inch of a saguaro
Authors:   , Gomez Carley Mercedes
Published: May 2022

The First Inch of a Saguaro follows three Mexican American teenagers after their father, Luis, is arrested for a drug-related murder in an Arizona border town. During Luis' trial, fourteenyear-old Javier takes to leaving home in the middle of the night and wanders the streets. On the edge of town, he finds ghostly women trapped in a cult and he desperately works to free them. Once his father is convicted of murder, Javier must navigate this dangerous cult while growing up without his father at home. Middle child Alejandra is angry--angry at her friends, her father, and the world. Unable to cope with this world in which her father is in prison, she runs away with another boy from high school who feels he has no reason to stay after his mother and stepfather skip out. They travel the country in his van for several years--meeting other teenagers in need of help and eventually settling into a commune in California. All the while, Alejandra sends postcards to her father in prison. Paulina, the eldest, was preparing for college when Luis was pulled from their home. Ever the dutiful daughter, she sacrifices everything to support Javier and her mother. Paulina takes on local gig work during the day, and tries to reconcile her sexuality and her religious beliefs at night. Luis' trial is not the focal point of this novel. Throughout, his guilt is always in question. Instead, the story focuses on the way that Javier, Alejandra, and Paulina begin to grow distant as the arrest of their father destroys the stability of their home life. They face the community's condemnation and racism, and they navigate the prison visitation space as a form of borderland. Throughout the book, Mexican mythology has a prominent role in the structure of plot, and in the events themselves. The novel inhabits the points of view of the teenagers and details how they deal with the arrest and aftermath during the seven subsequent years.
Walk a hound, lose a pound, and stay fit for older adults : a secondary data
Authors:   , Harvey Lynette Poland
Published: May 2022

Physical inactivity in the older adult population contributes to a decreased quality of life and complications from many co-morbidities. The need is to encourage older adults to engage in more physical activity. Dog walking is an activity that is easy to do, inexpensive, and can be done anywhere. This was a secondary analysis of a 12-week quasi-experimental study of older adults residing in three separate assisted living facilities. There were three groups: one that walked with shelter dogs (DW), one that walked with a human companion (HW), and a control group (C). The first aim was to explore dog walking and the older adult through a quantitative lens. The second aim examined dog walking and the older adult through a qualitative approach. Statistical difference was found in overall total program walking distance in feet in DW (M=112,429.12, SD=89,796.47) compared to HW (M=50,863.35, SD=41,859.38) f (1,33)=7.75, p=0.01, with an effect size of Eta2=0.19. Additionally, statistical significance in overall total walking time in minutes was found in DW (M=1,480.69, SD=583.94) compared to HW (M=742.87, SD=452.21) f (1,33)=17.17, p=0.00, with an effect size of Eta2=0.34. Aim Two outcomes were that the experiences with the walking companion were overall positive, and the participants expressed joy in interaction with both the dog and human companion. The only negative feedback with walking partners were that the HW group expressed dissatisfaction when their walking partner did not want to walk. This could be because humans can be unreliable, whereas dogs might not. In response to the program, both groups expressed that the program itself added to the overall motivation to continue walking. This study has addressed the many benefits of older adults engaging in a more active lifestyle. Ideally, dog walking in older adults may motivate older adults to engage in a more active lifestyle.
Investigating the iconnect intervention for students with emotional disturbance in mathematics
Authors:   , Hirt Stacy Marie
Published: May 2022

Students with or at-risk for emotional disturbance (ED) often struggle socially, emotionally, and academically (e.g., on-task engagement and academic achievement). One of the most effective academic interventions for students with ED includes immediate feedback paired with frequent prompts for appropriate behavior (i.e., self-monitoring). Despite the increased presence of mobile technology devices in schools, ways to utilize technology to support students with disabilities have not evolved with technology. The purpose of this study is to advance the literature in the area of technology self-monitoring applications for students with ED. Specifically, this study examined a self-monitoring technology intervention for students with or at-risk for ED in mathematics. This research utilized a single subject ABAB withdrawal design across four parent-student dyads. The investigation explored the impact of an interactive technology self-monitoring application (i.e., ICONNECT) on behavior targets (on-task engagement, disruptive behavior, and work completion) in mathematics for four students with ED. All four students increased their on-task behaviors and decreased their disruptive behavior. Three of the four students increased task completion. Limitations and implications for future research will be discussed.
Influence of inert gases on heat and mass transfer in next-generation nuclear reactors
Authors:   , Iasir Abu Rafi Mohammad
Published: May 2022

Inert gases cause some unique challenges in nuclear fuel development. In this dissertation, we study the impact of inert gases on the transport behavior in nextgeneration fission and fusion reactors. Uranium--molybdenum alloys are potential nuclear fuels that can replace highly-enriched uranium fuel in research and test reactors around the world. Developing a uranium fuel with low enrichment is an important step towards preventing nuclear proliferation and promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy. We look into how fission gas (i.e., krypton and xenon) impacts the transport properties of U--Mo alloys. We start with an analysis of the impact of fission gas on the overall thermal conductivity of U--Mo. We find that the presence of fission gas inside the fuel significantly reduces the overall thermal conductivity. We then discuss the electronic structure of uranium using density functional theory (DFT) and introduce a new pseudopotential for uranium. This pseudopotential is then used to examine xenon migration in U--Mo alloys. Our results show that the presence of molybdenum in nearest-neighbor lattice positions increases the migration energy of xenon relative to pure g-uranium, meaning molybdenum impedes fission gas transport. Finally, we study the interaction of helium with lithium, which is a potential plasma-facing material for fusion reactors, using DFT. We find that helium behaves very differently in lithium than it does in other bcc materials. Our studies show that helium has very low migration energies inside lithium, indicating high mobility.
Effects of differential and combinatorial inhibition of myostatin and activin A in the G610 murine model of osteogenesis imperfecta
Authors:   , Omosule Catherine Laaripuoh
Published: May 2022

Bone fragility, increased susceptibility to fracture, and low bone mineral density (BMD) are hallmarks of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), a rare skeletal disorder that arises primarily from defects in the generation, quantity and quality of type I collagen. OI is classically grouped into 4 types based on disease severity: I (mild), II (perinatal lethal), III (severe, progressively deforming) and IV (moderately severe). There is currently no cure for OI, and present day therapeutic management depends on bone-antiresorptive drugs and intramedullary rodding of long bones, both of which can have significant adverse effects and outcomes. Myostatin and activin A are ligands in the TGF-[beta] superfamily with known regulatory roles in the development and physiology of muscle and bone. In mice, myostatin is well known as a regulator of muscle mass. Its inhibition is associated with increased muscle mass and fiber number. Activin A is a known pro-osteoclastogenic molecule, increasing the differentiation of bone-resorbing osteoclasts. Its inhibition is associated with increased bone formation in vivo. Both myostatin and activin A effect canonical signaling cascades through the activin type IIB receptor (ActRIIB). The following studies are divided into two segments. In the first segment, we explored the effects of genetic myostatin inhibition relative to postnatal pharmacological myostatin inhibition in the mild to moderate type I/IV G610C mouse model of OI. Heterozygous G610C mice (+/G610C) carry a mutation in their Col1a2 genes, reflecting the causative mutation in a human founder population exhibiting compromised skeletal health including decreased BMD and bone strength. We hypothesized that the inhibition of myostatin would improve muscular and skeletal properties in +/G610C +/mstn (genetic myostatin inhibition) and Regn647-treated wild-type (Wt) and +/G610C mice (postnatal pharmacological myostatin inhibition). Indeed, myostatin deficiency endowed +/G610C mice with larger hindlimb muscles but it was only through genetic inhibition of myostatin that the overall skeletal properties in the G610C mouse was improved. In the second segment, we explored and compared inhibition of myostatin, activin A, or both ligands using monoclonal antibodies in Wt and +/G610C mice, hypothesizing that the combined inhibition of myostatin and activin A (Combo) will more potently improve musculoskeletal properties due to increased muscle mass and decreased bone resorption. Indeed, the combinatorial treatment with both myostatin and activin consistently increased muscle mass, and bone microarchitecture and strength in all mice regardless of genotype or sex. These findings demonstrate the potential of myostatin for increasing muscle mass in OI, but also suggest that combinatorial inhibition treatment strategy of myostatin and activin A provides greater post-natal skeletal improvements than myostatin or activin A inhibition alone.
Structural features of persistent homology and their algorithmic transformations
Authors:   , Pavlichenko Andrei
Published: May 2022

We re-examine the theory and orthodox methods that underlie the study of persistent homology, particularly in its calculation of homological cycle representatives that are associated to persistence diagrams. A common background to the subject covers several aspects: schemes to process input data (embedding it in a low-dimensional manifold), categorical descriptions of persistence objects, and algorithms by which the barcode summarizing the homology is found. We overview these aspects, focusing on altered simplicial complexes, traditional computation of persistent homology, and the stability theorem for barcodes. By reformulating these notions in the language of category theory, we can speak more plainly on some recurring notions that are relevant to our discussion. This ultimately sets up for vector space filtrations that prove to be suitable tools for codifying the homology of complexes, including the (co)images and (co)kernels arising from morphisms of complexes. The main body of work then presents an alternative approach to persistent homology, based on filtrations of vector spaces. We elaborate with an interesting example whose persistent homology is readily computed as a quotient of appropriate filtrations; in the process, we produce a representative basis of homological cycles, a step that is often overlooked in existing literature. The proposed algorithm is also notable in that it easily handles the calculation of (co)images and (co)kernels for persistent morphisms, supplying us with the same level of detail; while other algorithms do exist for computing the barcodes of these universal objects, such methods are not easily generalizable. Finally, we compute appropriate homological cycles and use a certain algorithmic matching scheme that both implies the usual barcode matching and attempts to better interpret this interesting behavior.
Factors that impact assigned female at birth sexual minority individuals' health care experiences : a qualitative descriptive study
Authors:   , Rabbitte Maureen
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to identify factors that impact the health seeking behaviors of young, assigned female at birth (AFAB) sexual minority individuals. This understudied population is less likely to engage in health care services and health screenings as compared to their cisgender counterparts. Purposive sampling was used to recruit ten AFAB sexual minority individuals between 18-30 years of age who lived, attended school, and sought health care services in the Chicago metropolitan area. One overarching theme and two main themes emerged from data acquired through individual interviews: overarching theme "the right questions"; main themes (1) lack of trust in health professionals; (2) the need for better sexual health education. An important finding was that assigned female at birth sexual minority individuals want to be asked about their sexual orientation, sexual behavior, and gender identity. Participants wanted to be able to share their sexual orientation and gender identity with health professionals so they could receive appropriate care, accurate information, and feel comfortable sharing aspects about their life. Participants also desired the ability to have a relationship with health professionals that did not include awkward conversations or feeling judged. Additionally, the results suggested that general and health sciences curricula should include content about diverse sexual and gender minority populations. The addition of this type of education might increase the awareness of the person seeking care and the health care professional to the health needs of assigned female at birth sexual minority individuals. Such instruction might also normalize individuals with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. Findings have important implications for education and clinical practice. Novel strategies are needed to enhance health-seeking behaviors, and thereby the health outcomes, of the AFAB sexual minority population.
Development of a multi-omics approach to identify highly correlated transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolic signatures in maize B73 and FR697 drought stressed nodal roots
Authors:   , Sen Sidharth
Published: May 2022

Maize is one of the most important crops grown in the continental US and worldwide, and as such, major interest is directed towards understanding the impact of drought conditions on maize growth and development. Nodal roots, which develop from the base of the stem and produce the framework of the mature root system, can continue to grow under water stress conditions that inhibit the growth of the leaves and stem. To better understand the molecular mechanisms that led to this remarkable ability, we analyzed multiomics (transcriptome, proteome, metabolome) datasets generated from the growth zone of nodal roots collected from the reference inbred line B73 and from inbred line FR697, which exhibits a relatively greater ability to maintain root elongation under water-stressed conditions. We developed an informatics analytics pipeline consisting of a discriminatory multiomics data integration approach combining sparse Generalized Canonical Correlation Analysis (sGCCA) and generalized Partial Least Square analysis (PLS) to incorporate all datasets into one holistic global network and form clusters spanning all omics levels. Significant elements from these clusters were connected to various observations associated with water stress in the root tip samples and reinforced by their roles in biological pathways. We also generated an annotated "SuperTranscriptome" assembly from Pacbio Iso-Seq and RNA-Seq datasets to serve as a representative assembly for the FR697 genotype. The results were incorporated into the KBCommons maize database for storage and analysis from various viewpoints. To visualize interactions between the many elements, we are also developing a suite of 3D visualization, collectively called the "KBCommons Omics Studio", integrated with the KBCommons framework. Using these methods, we showcase possible biomarkers related to drought stress and allied observations. Supported by NSF Plant Genome Program IOS #1444448.
Pre- and protopalatial Minoan larnax : individuals vs collective identity in pre- and protopalatial Crete
Authors:   , Ursprung Nerling Laura S.
Published: May 2022

Prepalatial and Protopalatial larnakes offer a corpus of material with their own biography which has long been ignored, passed over, or forgotten. They represent the beginning of a mortuary tradition of burials in ceramic containers that spans a millennium and eventually crosses the Aegean, appearing at select locations on mainland Greece. Their appearance at the EM III -- MM IA transition -- a crucial moment in Minoan history -- has provided fodder for interpretations of nascent individualism on Crete, thus replacing the communal ideology so prevalent in the earlier Minoan mortuary landscapes and built urban environments. This study provides an overview of Prepalatial and Protopalatial larnakes, their contexts, the associated funerary assemblages, and the regional implications made apparent throughout the course of research. The results of this study conclude that the larnax operated within an interwoven communal tradition that embodied not a single or elite individual, but the collective as a whole.
Gaze on belonging : investigating rural preservice teachers' experiences at a flagship university
Authors:   , Woods Stephanie Lynn
Published: May 2022

This qualitative study examined rural undergraduate students' process of developing a sense of belonging in a teacher preparation program at a large Midwestern public university. Eleven undergraduates, each having completed at least one semester of study on campus, participated in the study. Perspectives of college belonging were explored by gathering data from both rural students (8) and urban students (3). Multiple data sources included student interviews, online public documents, and NCES data of participants' high schools. Three waves of data collection were utilized: a digital story submission and two semi-structured interviews conducted via video conferencing. Constant comparison analysis (Corbin & Straus, 2015) of the participant's experiences within the campus system and at home resulted in the emergence of five dimensions of belongingness development: stressors associated with rurality, reconceptualizing community by integrating goals, considering contributions to campus through reflection on their sense of purpose, finding fit to get comfortable on campus, and dynamic relationships that stimulate development. Interpretation of the findings indicated the importance of recognizing rural community values and supporting new relationship development for rural preservice teachers. Based on these findings, this study suggests adding the dimension of reconceptualizing community goals to college student success models, especially for those students who are cultural minorities and considered on the fringes of campus culture.
Bayesian smoothing spline with dependency models
Authors:   , Zhang Benqian
Published: May 2022

The smoothing spline model is widely used for fitting a smooth curve because of its flexibility and smoothing properties. Our study is motivated by estimating the long-term trend of the U.S. unemployment level. In this dissertation, a class of Bayesian smoothing spline with dependency models is developed. The unemployment level and other labor-force time series, which are often used to analyze market and economic conditions, are strongly in uenced by seasonality, as well as irregular or short-term fluctuations. We apply the basic Bayesian smoothing spline model to obtain the smooth estimation of the trend from a time series, which captures the fundamental tendency of general economic expansions and contractions. We further generalize the basic Bayesian smoothing spline model with dependence structure. This generalization significantly improves the boundary performance and elevates the overall accuracy and precision by borrowing information from different cycles. Finally, we construct the multivariate Bayesian smoothing spline with dependency model, which enables us to estimate the trends of the unemployment and employment level simultaneously. The accuracy and precision are improved by the joint model.
Semiparametric analysis of time-to-event data and longitudinal data
Authors:   , Zhou Ruiwen
Published: May 2022

Interval-censored failure time data are commonly observed in demographical, epi-demiological, financial, medical, and sociological studies. It is well-known that the proportional hazards model is one of the most used regression models for the anal-ysis of failure time data, and significant literature has been established for fitting it to interval-censored data. Many authors have discussed the problem when complete information on the covariates is available, or the missing is completely at random. Nevertheless, an established method for the situation where the missing is at random does not seem to exist. The first part of this dissertation discusses fitting the pro-portional hazards model to interval-censored failure time data when there may exist missing on covariates. A sieve maximum likelihood estimation approach is proposed with the use of I-splines to approximate the unknown cumulative baseline hazard function. For the implementation of the method, we develop an EM algorithm based on two-stage data augmentation. Furthermore, we show that the proposed estimators of regression parameters are consistent and asymptotically normal. Many authors have discussed the joint analysis of longitudinal data and time-to-event data, but most of the existing methods are the hazard-based approach for the failure time of interest. It is well-known that sometimes the mean residual life (MRL) model, which measures the remaining life expectancy, may be of more interest. To address this issue, the second and third parts of this dissertation consider an MRL-based method for the joint analysis, which gives a meaningful and informative alternative to the hazard-based approach. In the second part, we propose to utilize the proportional mean residual life (PMRL) function with latent random effect to jointly access the observed baseline prognostic factors and continuous longitudinal risk factor on the MRL function. The proposed method extends the conventional proportional mean residual model to accommodate a latent random effect that links the time to event with longitudinal measurement. For the parameter estimation, we propose an extended estimating equation approach. The simulation study shows that the performance of the proposed method is satisfactory. We then apply the proposed method to the ADNI study that reveals insights into critical factors that influence the progression time from MCI status to AD conversion. To further accommodate binary longitudinal outcome, in the third part, the pro-portional mean residual model and the generalized linear mixed model are employed to model the failure time of interest and the longitudinal variable, respectively. For estimation, a quasi-likelihood approach is developed with the use of Laplace approx-imation. A simulation study is conducted, and the proposed method is applied to a set of real data.
Explainable contextual data driven fusion
Authors:   , Deardorff Matthew Scott
Published: May 2022

Numerous applications require the intelligent combining of disparate sensor data streams to create a more complete and enhanced observation in support of underlying tasks like classification, regression, or decision making. This presentation is focused on two underappreciated and often overlooked parts of information fusion, explainability and context. Due to the rapidly increasing deployment and complexity of machine learning solutions, it is critical that the humans who deploy these algorithms can understand why and how a given algorithm works, as well as be able to determine when an algorithm is suitable for use in a particular instance of the problem. The first half of this paper outlines a new similarity measure for capacities and integrals. This measure is used to compare machine learned fusion solutions and explain what a single fusion solution learned. The second half of the paper is focused on contextual fusion with respect to incomplete (limited knowledge) models and metadata for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Example UAV metadata includes platform (e.g., GPS, IMU, etc.) and environmental (e.g., weather, solar position, etc.) data. Incomplete models herein are a result of limitations of machine learning related to under-sampling of training data. To address these challenges, a new contextually adaptive online Choquet integral is outlined.
Effects of matrix training within activity schedules on thematic play skill for children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors:   , Pisoni Alexia Paige
Published: May 2022

Photographic activity schedules have been demonstrated to teach functional and social play to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Matrix training is an instructional format that teaches a subset of targets, additional targets in the matrix are then acquired without direct teaching. Dauphine et al. (2004) has demonstrated that matrix training delivered within an activity schedules format was effective at increasing schedule following behavior and promoted recombinative generalization of sociodramatic play skills. The present study extends previous literature by assessing the effects of matrix training within activity schedules on thematic play skills for two children with ASD. Researchers used an alternating treatment design embedded in a concurrent multiple baseline design to assess the percentage of correct schedule following, engagement, and frequency of varied play. Researchers found that the use of matrix training embedded in an activity schedule was effective for teaching thematic play skills as well as promoting recombinative generalization in all participants.
Advances nanodielectric material characterization and scaling for further size reduction in compact ultra-high voltage capacitor prototypes
Authors:   , Schulte Evan Jacob
Published: May 2022

The University of Missouri's Center for Physical and Power Electronics (CPPE) have been working on developing compact, high voltage capacitors intended for pulsed power and directed energy applications. The scope of the project was to design a 500kV capacitor with lifetimes of more than 10,000 shots with an energy density goal of 0.4J/cc. The CPPE's proposed solution was to use a proprietary material developed by the CPPE, named MU100. This material had already been demonstrated in reducing high power antennas and has previously demonstrated a ten times volume reduction factor. The MU100 is a nanodielectric, polymer-ceramic composite composed of nanoparticles of barium titanate and a proprietary binding agent. The result of the composite is a material with a high dielectric constant (100 at 1GHz) and high dielectric strength (>100kV/cm). Initial sample testing showed that MU100 makes an excellent candidate for use in high voltage capacitors not only because of its electrical properties, but also due to its consistent performance across a wide temperature range (-40 degrees C to 120 degrees C). The results of the capacitor program were two working prototypes that have both exceeded pre-specified specifications of withstanding >104 pulses with peak voltages of 500kV and >50 percent voltage reversal. In addition to meeting the specifications, the first- and second-generation prototypes had volume size reductions of over 2x's and over 4x's respectively when compared to the commercial capacitor with similar specifications. After successful demonstrations in reducing the size of ultra high voltage capacitors, additional unfunded efforts have been made in the material characterization to design a third generation prototype. This material characterization includes analysis on the volume and thickness of the material, surface roughness, and surface preparation, which will be discussed in this work.
Attenuation of low frequency pressure pulsations
Authors:   , Xu Jian
Published: May 2022

In this thesis, the concept of hydraulic pulsating filter is explored and developed. The filter or resonator is designed to attenuate the pulsation that occurs when the hydraulic pump is discharged. Pumps pulsate over a range of frequencies, depending on pump design, speed, displacement, and other factors. The objectives of this work are to create a conceptual design and mathematical model of the pulsation filter concept, to conduct simulations and analyses to determine the feasibility of the concept, and to compare alternative designs for achieving the goal of attenuating pulsation at low frequencies (up to 100 Hz). These concepts include using standard components, as well as consideration of modeling alternatives. In order to solve the feasibility problem, the lumped parameter method is used for analysis, and key concepts are verified by experiments. This study started from the theoretical review of Helmholtz resonator and branch hose. After the theoretical review, experiments were presented to verify these concepts. On this basis, a novel pulsation attenuation scheme "Super Volume" is modeled and developed. Experiments were also presented to evaluate the Super Volume concept. The experimental results show that Super Volume is a feasible way to attenuate low-frequency fluid pulsation by manipulate device parameters. This work contributed to the development of passive low-frequency hydraulic fluid power pulsation solutions.
Methodological approaches for sound training in underepresented learners: a case study with american toads (anaxyrus americanus)
Authors:   , Cruz Santos Deise
Published: May 2022

efforts to better understand the minds of animals have been flourishing, with methodological breakthroughs and a remarkable increase in the number of publications dealing with a wide variety of non-model species. The growing interest in species that are distantly related to humans in the field of comparative physiology and cognition was confirmed with the general reviewed performed in this dissertation. Yet, the progress is unbalanced among the ectothermic vertebrates (fish, reptiles, and amphibians), with almost no research on amphibians. Many animals remain unstudied, even though they may possess unique and powerful adaptations to respond to environmental stimuli that can be useful for learning and cognition research. Inspired by the efforts to increase species representation in studies of learning and cognition, this dissertation also explored two methods of spatial learning to train American toads to respond to tone burst cues in order to find the reward. As frogs and toads have been able to acquire maze task associated to visual cues and mating calls, I predicted that a protocol based on these previously successful methods could be reliable in testing toads to associate and discriminate tone bursts of different frequencies (HZ). None of the methods were effective in demonstrate learning abilities in American toads, but the results pointed to important challenges to calibrate methods for future studies. Aspects to consider such as sex effects on side bias and can be used to reflect behavioral plasticity as a metric for the process of learning, such as time latency (longer it takes a toad to succeed, the more likely they will be successful) and the behavior displayed during the task as an indication of behavioral flexibility for decision making. Besides these aspects of the procedure, there are physiological and evolutionary aspects that might make toads unable to interact with non-mating sounds. These aspects and the level of hearing constraints that can affect learning assessment in toads are critical to answer broad questions on anuran auditory role beyond mating purposes.
Creating connectedness: assessing the use of social media by missouri middle school education leaders to develop their professional learning network
Authors:   , Hutchinson Melanie
Published: May 2022

Educational leaders are increasingly required to have knowledge over a wide range of topics. They are seeking ways to engage with colleagues and other educational leaders by connecting in meaningful learning and collaboration. Online communities are offering networking opportunities to educational leaders by turning social media platforms into communities of learning and connecting. While education budget cuts can limit district training opportunities, geographic distance can also isolate educational leaders. With the constant need for professional networking that is easily accessible and fairly inexpensive, administrators are becoming more reliant on social media networks to help develop and expand their district's professional development offerings (Chen, 2017; Davis, 2017). This study uses qualitative means through interviews of middle school educational leaders in the state of Missouri to examine their use of social media platforms for enhancing their professional learning networks.
From farm to fraternity
Authors:   , Shaw Meredith Dawn
Published: May 2022

In this study I present my examination of young men from rural backgrounds and family farms who joined agricultural-based fraternities in college and the experiences they have at a large Midwestern university. I utilized Terenzini and Reason's (2005) conceptual framework of influences and outcomes on student's college experience. Through a qualitative research study, I applied this framework to explore the perception of the rural and farm family background on the student's college experience, and how the students saw the fraternity influence their persistence through college. Students interviewed felt their rural background gave them a strong work ethic and family connection. They were unimpressed with the University of Missouri recruiting efforts in their rural areas. Students interviewed also expressed that their rural high schools did not prepare them for the rigor of college. In this study, I recommend rural centric recruiting that starts with utilizing college recruiters familiar with the issues of rural students. I further recommend rural-centered student programming, including a rural student orientation and developing rural student-centered career programming.
Novel mouse models for spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress type i: characterizing disease relevant models and evaluating therapeutic potential
Authors:   , Smith Caley Elizabeth
Published: May 2022

Spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress type I (SMARD1) is a rare neurodegenerative disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in the immunoglobulin ��-DNA binding protein 2 (IGHMBP2). SMARD1 is defined by severe respiratory impairment due to progressive diaphragm weakness followed by distal to proximal spread of muscle atrophy. This is caused degeneration of lower alpha motor neurons. Clinical onset typically occurs ~6 weeks to ~6 months of age and is followed by rapid disease progression and mortality within 2 years. There is currently no SMARD1-specific therapeutics available, and patients rely on palliative care measures such as use of an artificial mechanical ventilator. SMARD1 is thought to be an excellent candidate for AAV9-mediated gene therapy; however, the pipeline for treatment approval remains in the pre-clinical stage. In this work we assess and develop two areas in SMARD1 that remain poorly understood. First, we evaluate the therapeutic window for SMARD1 FVB-nmd2J mice by deliverour ssAAV9-IGHMBP2 at different dosages and neonatal timepoints. This allows us to properly compare the extent of phenotypic and cellular pathology rescue preand post-symptomatically in vivo. We confirm from this study that the earlier the treatment of ssAAV9-IGHMBP2 results in a higher extent of rescue. Additionally, we characterize one of the novel mouse lines created that carries a missense-derived patient mutation, D565N (D564N in mice). We determined this mutation results in severe phenotypic and cellular pathology defects in homozygous offspring, and, notably, results in respiratory impairments. We also observed that high dose delivery of ssAAV9- IGHMBP2 to this missense mutation-based mouse model results in substantial rescue. These insights help further our understanding about SMARD1, as well as further preclinical insights for developing a gene replacement therapeutic option.
Does incidental mean indiscriminate? a study of incidental news consumption's effect on processing of claims in health news
Authors:   , Campbell Anna
Published: May 2022

Since the 2016 election, fake news has taken center stage in the American news landscape. The risk of fake news being widely disseminated and widely believed is a great fear for many, and this study addresses factors associated with our tendencies in consuming fake news. Specifically, this study asks how incidental news consumption affects a person's news discernment. Prior research suggests that people may consume news "incidentally" or accidentally online, and the context in which they are viewing news may alter their ability to critically understand and engage with it. A lack of conscious intent in a user's news consumption can have negative consequences, such as a lack of political participation and poor media literacy. Therefore, this study attempts to understand how news habits are associated with a person's ability to discern between true and false claims in health news. To do so, this study hypothesizes that incidental news exposure is negatively associated with news media discernment, or in other words, people who mostly consume news incidentally are not equipped to discern between real and fake news. The results showed, in line with the hypothesis, that incidental, or passive, news consumers were more likely to view fake news as more accurate and less biased than their active news consumer counterparts, and less likely to view real news as accurate and unbiased than their active news consumer counterparts, suggesting that active news consumers are more discerning.