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Levy, Alfred K. "Object tracking in low frame-rate video sequences." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2004. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/339.
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This item is only available in print in the UCF Libraries. If this is your Honors Thesis, you can help us make it available online for use by researchers around the world by following the instructions on the distribution consent form at http://library.ucf.edu/Systems/DigitalInitiatives/DigitalCollections/InternetDistributionConsentAgreementForm.pdf You may also contact the project coordinator, Kerri Bottorff, at kerri.bottorff@ucf.edu for more information.<br>Bachelors<br>Engineering<br>Computer Science
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Gonzalez, Michel. "Traumatisme fermé de la rate : prise en charge non-opératoire /." Genève : [s.n.], 2008. http://opac.nebis.ch/cgi-bin/showAbstract.pl?sys=000253106.
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Sriram, Parthasarathy. "Low bit-rate transform and wavelet image coding." Diss., The University of Arizona, 1993. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/186365.
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In this dissertation, adaptive wavelet and transform coding techniques are presented for low bit-rate monochrome and color image coding. The proposed encoders are based on trellis coded quantization. Trellis coded quantization (TCQ) is an effective scheme for quantizing memoryless sources with low to moderate complexity. The TCQ approach to data compression has led to some of the most effective source codes found to date for memoryless sources. For the transform coder, TCQ is used to encode transform coefficients resulting from applying a 16 x 16 discrete cosine transform (DCT) to 8-bit gray level and 24-bit color images. For the color images, the red, green, and the blue planes were transformed into NTSC transmission primaries (Y, I, and Q) before the DCT is applied. Both fixed-rate and entropy-constrained systems are considered. The discrete wavelet transform has recently emerged as a powerful technique for decomposing images into various multi-resolution approximations. We investigate the use of entropy-constrained trellis coded quantization for encoding the wavelet coefficients of both monochrome and color images. The lowest resolution sub-image is encoded using a 4 x 4 2-D DCT encoder. An integer programming algorithm is employed to allocate the available bit-rate optimally among the subbands. The objective performance results of our wavelet and transform coders are comparable to or surpass all previous results reported in the literature. The subjective quality of the encoded images is also excellent. In particular, the encoded monochrome images at 0.5 bits/pixel (a compression ratio of 16:1) obtained using our adaptive wavelet coder is almost indistinguishable from the original even when viewed on a high-resolution monitor.
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Froment, Philippe. "Proposition thérapeutique dans les traumatismes fermés isolés de la rate chez l'adulte /." Genève : [s.n.], 2005. http://www.unige.ch/cyberdocuments/theses2005/FromentP/these.pdf.
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Van, Voorhies Wayne Alan. "The influence of metabolic rate, temperature and sex on life history parameters." Diss., The University of Arizona, 1993. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/186564.
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My dissertation research focused on four major biological variables; metabolic rate, body size, sex, and death. I found that growth and metabolic rate are not significantly correlated in the fish Oreochromis hybrid. To study factors affecting body size I researched the causal mechanism of Bergmann size clines. This is the trend that organisms tend to increase in body size with increasing distance from the equator. I found that genetically identical nematode worms, Caenorhabditis elegans, grow almost 40% larger at 10°C than at 25°C. Since adult worm cell number is constant in these worms the larger worm size is probably due to increased cell size. This provides a simple developmental mechanism, cells grow larger at lower temperatures, for Bergmann size clines in ectotherms. This would provide a simple non-adaptive explanation for the general trend of increased body size in ectothermic animals with increasing latitude. Sex significantly decreases the average lifespan of wild type male C. elegans but does not significantly affect hermaphrodite lifespan. I compared lifespans in three groups of worms: (1) all males, (2) all hermaphrodites, (3) a mixed population of hermaphrodites and male worms. At 20°C unmated males have an average lifespan 33% greater than mated males. In contrast, lifespans of mated and unmated hermaphrodites were identical. This result contradicts theories concerning the relative cost of reproduction which predict that large oocytes should be much more costly to produce than small sperm. I examined the lifespan of worms with a mutation affecting sperm production to determine if sperm production, rather than the physical effort of mating, is the major factor reducing lifespan in mated male worms. Average lifespan of both mutant mated males and unmated hermaphrodites is about 65% longer than that of wild type worms. Mated spe-26 males have similar lifespans to their unmated counterparts. These surprising results indicate that sperm production rather than ooycte production or the physical effort of mating is a major factor reducing lifespan in C. elegans.
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Khraisha, Rakan. "Bit-rate aware reconfigurable architecture for h.264/avc deblocking filter." Master's thesis, University of Central Florida, 2010. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/4536.
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In H.264/AVC, DeBlocking Filter (DBF) achieves bit rate savings and it is used to improve visual quality by reducing the presence of blocking artifacts. However, these advantages come at the expense of increasing computational complexity of the DBF due to highly adaptive mode decision and small 4x4 block size. The DBF easily accounts for one third of the computational complexity of the decoder. The computational complexity required for various target applications from mobile to high definition video applications varies significantly. Therefore, it becomes apparent to design efficient architecture to adapt to different requirements. In this work, we exploit the scalability on both the hardware level and the algorithmic level to synergize the performance and to reduce computational complexity. First, we propose a modular DBF architecture which can be scaled to adapt to the required computing capability for various bit-rates, resolutions, and frame rates of video sequences. The scalable architecture is based on FPGA using dynamic partial reconfiguration. This desirable feature of FPGAs makes it possible for different hardware configurations to be implemented during run-time. The proposed design can be scaled to filter up to four different edges simultaneously, resulting in significant reduction of total processing time. Secondly, our experiments show by lowering the bit rate of video sequences, significant reduction in computational complexity can be achieved by the increased presence of skipped macroblocks, thus, avoiding redundant filtering operations. The implemented architecture has been evaluated using Xilinx Virtex-4 ML410 FPGA board. The design can operate at a maximum frequency of 103 MHz. The reconfiguration is done through Internal Configuration Access Port (ICAP) to achieve maximum performance needed by real time applications.<br>ID: 028732065; System requirements: World Wide Web browser and PDF reader.; Mode of access: World Wide Web.; Thesis (M.S.Cp.E.)--University of Central Florida, 2010.; Includes bibliographical references.<br>M.S.Cp.E.<br>Masters<br>School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science<br>Engineering and Computer Science
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O'Kelley, Ryan. "Rate handling methods in variable amplitude fatigue cycle processing." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2010. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/1477.
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This item is only available in print in the UCF Libraries. If this is your Honors Thesis, you can help us make it available online for use by researchers around the world by following the instructions on the distribution consent form at http://library.ucf.edu/Systems/DigitalInitiatives/DigitalCollections/InternetDistributionConsentAgreementForm.pdf You may also contact the project coordinator, Kerri Bottorff, at kerri.bottorff@ucf.edu for more information.<br>Bachelors<br>Engineering and Computer Science<br>Mechanical Engineering
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Schriber, Peter. "Is the readmission rate to the Intensive Care Unit a useful quality indicator of ICU performance ? /." Genève : Ed. Médecine et hygiène, 2002. http://www.unige.ch/cyberdocuments/theses2002/SchriberP/these.pdf.
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Mandridis, Dimitrios. "Low noise and low repetition rate semiconductor-based mode-locked lasers." Doctoral diss., University of Central Florida, 2011. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/4974.
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The topic of this dissertation is the development of low repetition rate and low noise semiconductor-based laser sources with a focus on linearly chirped pulse laser sources. In the past decade chirped optical pulses have found a plethora of applications such as photonic analog-to-digital conversion, optical coherence tomography, laser ranging, etc. This dissertation analyzes the aforementioned applications of linearly chirped pulses and their technical requirements, as well as the performance of previously demonstrated chirped pulse laser sources. Moreover, the focus is shifted to a specific application of the linearly chirped pulses, time-stretched photonic analog-to-digital conversion (TS ADC). The challenges of surpassing the speeds of current electronic converters are discussed, while the need for low noise linearly chirped pulse lasers becomes apparent for the realization of TS ADC. The experimental research addresses the topic of low noise chirped pulse generation in three distinct ways. First, a chirped pulse (Theta) laser with an intra-cavity Fabry-Pérot etalon and a long-term referencing mechanism is developed that results in the reduction of the pulse-to-pulse energy noise. Noise suppression of [greater than]15 times is demonstrated. Moreover, an optical frequency comb with spacing equal to the repetition rate (≈100 MHz) is generated using the etalon, resulting in the first reported demonstration of a system operating in the sub-GHz regime based on semiconductor gain. The path for the development of the Theta laser was laid by the precise characterization of the etalon used in this laser cavity design. A narrow linewidth laser is used in conjunction with an acousto-optic modulator externally swept for measuring the etalon’s free spectral range with a sub-Hz precision, or 10 parts per billion. Furthermore, the measurement of the etalon long-term drift and birefringence lead to the development of a modified intra-cavity Hansch-Couillaud locking mechanism for the Theta laser. Moreover, an external feed-forward system was demonstrated that aimed at increasing the temporal/spectral uniformity of the optical pulses. A complete characterization of the system is demonstrated. On a different series of experiments, the pulses emitted by an ultra-low noise but high repetition rate mode-locked laser were demultiplexed resulting in a low repetition rate pulse train. Experimental investigation of the noise properties of the laser proved that they are preserved during the demultiplexing process. The noise of the electrical gate used in this experiment is also investigated which led into the development of a more profound understanding of the electrical noise of periodical pulses and a mechanism of measuring their noise. The appendices in this dissertation provide additional material used for the realization of the main research focus of the dissertation. Measurements of the group delay of the etalon used in the Theta laser are presented in order to demonstrate the limiting factors for the development of this cavity design. The description of a balancing routine is presented, that was used for expanding the dynamic range of intra-cavity active variable delay. At last, the appendix presents the calculations regarding the contribution of various parameters in the limitations of analog-to-digital conversion.<br>ID: 030423160; System requirements: World Wide Web browser and PDF reader.; Mode of access: World Wide Web.; Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Central Florida, 2011.; Includes bibliographical references (p. 163-169).<br>Ph.D.<br>Doctorate<br>Optics and Photonics
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Menzerotolo, Rosa Ana. "Rain rate retrieval algorithm for Aquarius/SAC-D microwave radiometer." Master's thesis, University of Central Florida, 2011. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/4982.
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Microwave radiometers are used to measure blackbody microwave emissions emitted by natural targets. Radiative transfer theory provides a well founded physical relationship between the atmosphere and surface geophysical parameters and the brightness temperature measured by these radiometers. The atmospheric brightness temperature is proportional to the integral of the microwave absorption of water vapor, oxygen, and liquid water between the top of the atmosphere and the surface. Inverse radiative transfer models use to retrieve the water vapor, cloud liquid and oxygen content in the atmosphere are very well known; however, the retrieval of rain rate in the atmosphere is still a challenge. This project presents a theoretical basis for the rain rate retrieval algorithm, which will be implemented in the Aquarius/SAC-D Microwave Radiometer (MWR). This algorithm was developed based on the radiative transfer model theory for a single layer atmosphere using four WindSat channels. Transmissivity due to liquid water (rain and cloud liquid water) is retrieved from the four channel brightness temperatures, and a statistical regression is performed to relate the rain rate, rain physical temperature and rain height to the liquid water transmissivities at 24 GHz and 37 GHz. Empirical validation results are presented using the WindSat radiometer observations.<br>ID: 029809040; System requirements: World Wide Web browser and PDF reader.; Mode of access: World Wide Web.; Thesis (M.S.E.E.)--University of Central Florida, 2011.; Includes bibliographical references (p. 270).<br>M.S.E.E.<br>Masters<br>Electrical Engineering and Computer Science<br>Engineering and Computer Science<br>Electrical Engineering
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Jones, Ashley. "Low Strain Rate Studies of Alumina Epoxy Composites using Piezospectroscopy." Master's thesis, University of Central Florida, 2013. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/5957.
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Particulate composites are widely used in many aerospace and military applications as energetic materials, armor materials or coatings and their behavior under dynamic loads have gained increasing significance. The addition of modifiers such as alumina nanoparticles generally facilitates the improvement of the mechanical strength to density ratio due to high specific area and particle rigidity. This allows for sufficient particle-matrix bonding and therefore improved stiffness and load transfer in the composite. Photo-luminescent ?-alumina nanoparticles when embedded in an epoxy matrix allow for the added benefit of in situ measurements at low strain rates to provide stress-sensitive information using the particle piezospectroscopic (PS) property. To investigate the low strain rate behavior, cylindrical specimens of alumina-epoxy composites with varying volume fractions of alumina were fabricated using a casting process to ensure minimal surface finishing and reduced manufacturing time. The results illustrate the capability of alumina nanoparticles to act as diagnostic sensors to measure the stress-induced shifts of the spectral R-line peaks resulting from low compressive strain rates. The range of PS coefficients measured, -3.15 to -5.37 cm^-1/GPa for R1 and -2.62 to -5.39 cm^-1/GPa for R2, correlate well with static test results of similar volume fractions. Results reveal a general trend of increasing sensitivity of the PS coefficients with increasing strain rate when compared to similar materials under static conditions. In contrast to static results, at a given strain rate, the PS coefficients show varying degrees of sensitivity for each volume fraction. This information can be used to determine the time-dependent micro-scale stresses the nanoparticles sustain during composite loading. Additionally, this work facilitates failure prediction by monitoring upshifts in the PS information. Calibration of the in situ diagnostic stress sensing capabilities of varying volume fractions of alumina nanocomposites under quasi-static strain rates in this work sets the precedent for future studies at high strain rates.<br>M.S.M.E.<br>Masters<br>Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering<br>Engineering and Computer Science<br>Mechanical Engineering; Mechanical Systems
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Christovich, Courtney. "Student perception of their instructors do college students rate female professors more harshly?" Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2013. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/832.
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Student evaluations are often used by administrators to make important career decisions for professors such as offers of tenure, increase in salary or other monetary reward (see Frick, Chadha, Watson, & Zlatkovska, 2009). Research has consistently shown that helpfulness in its various operational definitions is one of the most important traits to students when evaluating a professor (For example Silva et al., 2008). Previous findings have demonstrated that inequalities exist among subjective student evaluation ratings of men and women, (see Bennet, 1982). The present study extended this research by manipulating the instruction styles (strict vs. permissive), as well as the gender of the instructor, in a hypothetical syllabus. Participants were randomly assigned to read 1 of 4 syllabi which varied only by instruction style and gender of the instructor. Subsequently, participants answered follow up questions on the content of the syllabus which emphasized the gender of the instructor. Evaluations were collected in the form of both Likert scale ratings and responses to open ended questions. The written evaluations were analyzed for emotional content using the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count Software (LIWC, Pennebaker, Francis, & Booth, 2007). A 2 (male vs. female) X 2 (strict vs. permissive) between subjects ANOVA was applied to the data collected. The results support the hypothesis that gender inequalities do exist, particularly when the professor was established as having a strict style of student interaction.<br>B.S.<br>Bachelors<br>Sciences<br>Psychology
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Ramesh, Gayatri. "Modified Pal Interpolation and Sampling Bilevel Signals with Finite Rate of Innovation." Doctoral diss., University of Central Florida, 2013. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/6007.
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Sampling and interpolation are two important topics in signal processing. Signal processing is a vast field of study that deals with analysis and operations of signals such as sounds, images, sensor data, telecommunications and so on. It also utilizes many mathematical theories such as approximation theory, analysis and wavelets. This dissertation is divided into two chapters: Modified P&"225;l Interpolation and Sampling Bilevel Signals with Finite Rate of Innovation. In the first chapter, we introduce a new interpolation process, the modified P\'al interpolation, based on papers by P&"225;l, J&"243;o and Szab&"243;, and we establish the existence and uniqueness of interpolation polynomials of modified P&"225;l type.
The paradigm to recover signals with finite rate of innovation from their samples is a fairly recent field of study. In the second chapter, we show that causal bilevel signals with finite rate of innovation can be stably recovered from their samples provided that the sampling period is at or above the maximal local rate of innovation, and that the sampling kernel is causal and positive on the first sampling period. Numerical simulations are presented to discuss the recovery of bilevel causal signals in the presence of noise.<br>Ph.D.<br>Doctorate<br>Mathematics<br>Sciences<br>Mathematics
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Pace, Diane Todd. "Effect of postmenopausal hormone replacement on heart rate variability." View the abstract Download the full-text PDF version, 1998. http://etd.utmem.edu/ABSTRACTS/1998-003-pace-index.html.
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Thesis (Ph.D)--University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 1998.<br>Title from title page screen (viewed on October 17 2008). Research advisor: Kay F. Engelhardt. Document formatted into pages (xi, 162 p. : ill.). Vita. Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (p.162).
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Sigler, Patricia Ann. "The Relationship Between the Freshman Academy and Student Academic Success at Morristown-Hamblen High School East." Digital Commons @ East Tennessee State University, 2008. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/2017.
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The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not a significant relationship exists between the implementation of the Morristown-Hamblen High School East (MHHSE) Freshman Academy, student academic achievement, and the high school graduation rate at MHHSE.
The testing variables included GPA, attendance, number of core course failures, number of discipline referrals, English I End-of-Course test scores, and graduation rate. Grouping variables included 8th grade (pretreatment) and 9th grade (posttreatment) groups, preacademy and postacademy groups, socioeconomic status, and gender. Ten faculty members of the MHHSE Freshman Academy were interviewed to ascertain their perceptions about the smaller learning community concept.
The population of the study was limited to students enrolled in the MHHSE Freshman Academy (2004-2008) and students enrolled at MHHSE 2 years prior to the implementation of the academy (2002-2004). Paired-samples t-tests were used to make comparisons between the same students on 8th grade (pretreatment) and 9th grade (posttreatment) measures. Independentsamples t-tests were used to make additional comparisons between different groups of students categorized according to socioeconomic status and gender, as well as preacademy and postacademy groups.
Based on the findings of this study, it was concluded that the 9th grade transition year is a very difficult year for most students. Male students and those classified as economically disadvantaged develop additional risk factors during their freshmen year that might identify them as potential dropouts. The MHHSE Freshman Academy has had a positive effect on student academic performance and conduct as measured by the data analyses and teacher opinions.
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Lee, Shirleatha T. "The effects of glucose tolerance, hypertension, and race on heart rate variability, QT interval duration, and left ventricular hypertrophy in overweight-obese adolescents." View the abstract Download the full-text PDF version, 2009. http://etd.utmem.edu/ABSTRACTS/2009-005-Lee-index.htm.
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Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 2009.<br>Title from title page screen (viewed on August 27, 2009). Research advisor: Patricia A. Cowan, Ph.D. Document formatted into pages (x, 71). Vita. Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (p. 56-70).
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Haberstroh, Susan Keene. "Determining the high school graduation rate in Delaware." Access to citation, abstract and download form provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company; downloadable PDF file, 191 p, 2007. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1362531001&sid=12&Fmt=2&clientId=8331&RQT=309&VName=PQD.
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Carrivick, Philip James William. "The effectiveness of a manual handling workplace risk assessment team in reducing the rate and severity of occupational injury /." Full text available, 2002. http://adt.curtin.edu.au/theses/available/adt-WCU20030804.114946.
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McLachlan, Maria Elizabeth. "Experiences influencing the academic performances of 1st year nursing students at the Western Cape College of Nursing, South Africa, during 2008." Thesis, University of the Western Cape, 2010. http://etd.uwc.ac.za/index.php?module=etd&action=viewtitle&id=gen8Srv25Nme4_9892_1338815714.
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<p>This is a qualitative study, the aim of which is to explore experiences influencing the<br />
academic performance of 1st Year nursing students at the Western Cape College of Nursing,<br />
South Africa, during 2008 when the College was confronted with unprecedented failure rates<br />
among 1st Year students. It describes the Collegeâs collaboration with a higher education<br />
institution and the changes that emanated from this collaboration. The influence of<br />
situational factors on 1st Year nursing students is explored. These include the legacy of the<br />
inequality of past learning opportunities, institutional factors which hamper studentsâ sense of<br />
belonging, and the social and academic integration of students into their learning<br />
environment. The methodology used in the process of exploring these factors included focus<br />
group discussions with students and in-depth interviews with staff in order to explore their<br />
respective perceptions of the problem. From this it is hoped that the quality of human<br />
resources for health will be enhanced.</p>
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Van, der Bergh Erika. "The influence of academic self-confidence on mathematics achievement / Erika van der Bergh." Thesis, North-West University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10394/10180.
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It seems as if there is a continued problem with mathematical performances nationally. The rate, at which FET (Further Education and Training) phase learner s discontinue Mathematics as a result of poor mathematical performances, is of great
concern. This research study determined how academic self-confidence could have an influence on learners’ abilities to perform in Mathematics. The literature review confirmed that there could be a link between academic self-confidence and mathematical performance. Consequently, the researcher wanted to establish if the same could be found at a school where the emphasis is very much on mathematical achievement. The school is based in Northern Johannesburg (D10) in Gauteng, South Africa. By applying an explanatory mixed method approach (quantitative, followed by qualitative methods), the researcher identified a clear link between this school’s learners’ abilities to perform in Mathematics and their academic self-confidence. Amongst others, positive links were also identified between the learner s’ comprehension of Mathematics, their problem- solving skills as well as educator assistance, which in turn influence their academic self - confidence and consequently al so their performance s. A cycle of mathematical influences was identified that demonstrated that the influence i s not only working one way, but that a cycle forms; academic self-confidence influences the learner’s ability to perform in mathematics and mathematical performance s al so influence academic self - confidence, causing a continuous cycle of influence.<br>MEd (Learner Support), North-West University, Vaal Triangle Campus, 2013
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Houck, James Abraham III. "A Study of the Survival Rate of the Hepatitis B Virus." UNF Digital Commons, 1991. http://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/106.
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Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of many viruses transmitted through the blood or body fluids. This paper concentrates on a mathematical study of the survival rate of HBV. Using data which includes the survival time for individuals who were diagnosed as being affected by HBV and those who died from HBV, we fit non-linear models to study the survival time for people affected by the virus. Survival probabilities suggest an exponential curve for the survival time. We also consider a pure death process which is a stochastic model for the survival time of the individuals affected. Our results show that individuals who have been diagnosed as having HBV have an estimated life expectancy of approximately 625 days.
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Tennent, Toni Lane Dorsett. "A Comparison Study of Kindergarten Retention Rate and Implementation of Developmental Kindergarten." UNF Digital Commons, 1990. http://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/93.
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In an attempt to help developmentally young children experience success, many schools have established developmental kindergarten programs. An ex post facto study of a developmental kindergarten program in a Florida elementary school examined 598 student records covering five school years. Overall kindergarten retention rates before and after the implementation of the developmental kindergarten program were compared. Entry age, gender, and class size as factors in retention were also analyzed. A comparison of the entry age, gender, and kindergarten retentions before and after implementation of developmental kindergarten was also undertaken. Results of chi-square analyses showed no significant effects upon kindergarten retentions attributed to developmental kindergarten. The developmental kindergarten class, as implemented, had not significantly reduced overall retention rates for kindergarten students. Nor had it significantly reduced retention rates of at-risk students.
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Patterson, Fran Dolores. "Orthostatic blood pressure and heart rate responses within hypovolemic and normovolemic populations." Thesis, The University of Arizona, 1994. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/144633.
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A descriptive study was conducted comparing the blood pressure and heart rate responses to position change among hypovolemic and normovolemic subjects. A convenience sample of 32 men and women from an emergency room with complaints of diarrhea, vomiting, vaginal or rectal bleeding for $\ge$12 hours duration were recruited. The normovolemic group consisted of a convenience sample of 30 men and women from the community. Data analysis included a mixed design analysis of variance. Compared to supine baseline measurements, between group changes in the systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure were not statistically significant (p $>$.05). Once the subject stood, heart rate increased statistically significant in both groups (p $<$.05). The data suggest orthostatic hypotension can be considered when the supine resting heart rate is $\ge$87 beats per minute, and if upon standing, heart rate increases by $\ge$19.33 or is $\ge$110 beats per minute. Heart rate measurements should be taken at one minute after standing.
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Logan, Lynda Byrd. "Comparison of the academic success rate of GED and traditional high school graduates in Maryland community colleges." Diss., Virginia Tech, 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/40245.
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This study was designed to determine if there is any significant difference in the rate of academic success of traditional high school graduates and GED holders in a Maryland Community College. Similar studies have measured academic success using variables, such as persistence and graduation rates, which are better suited to studying academic success in four year colleges.
Because graduation rates in community colleges are low, it might be more accurate to assume that community college students matriculate for reasons other than transfer or the attainment of a degree. Therefore, the ratio of course attempted to courses completed and academic good standing were used to define and measure academic success.
It is logical to assume that a student intends to complete a course if he/she registers and pays for said course. It is also reasonable to define academic success in terms of a student's eligibility to enroll in subsequent classes because he/she has maintained at least a 2.0 grade point average in the courses he/she has previously taken.<br>Ph. D.
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Fleming, Belinda J. "Metabolic syndrome, inflammation, heart rate variability, and fitness in obese African American Youth." View the abstract Download the full-text PDF version, 2009. http://etd.utmem.edu/ABSTRACTS/2009-026-Fleming-index.htm.
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Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 2009.<br>Title from title page screen (viewed on August 6, 2009). Research advisor: Patricia A. Cowan, Ph.D. Document formatted into pages (xii,112p. : ill.). Vita. Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (p. 83-111).
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Fazecas, Michaela. "THE UNITED NATIONS FUND FOR POPULATION ACTIVITIES: CHANGING THE DIRECTION OF THE TOTAL FERTILITY RATE IN DEVELOPING NATIONS." Master's thesis, University of Central Florida, 2004. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/4500.
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This thesis builds on previous United Nations' research investigating factors affecting the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in six (6) states: Burkina Faso, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, the Philippines, and Uganda. The present research, however, provides a broader assessment of the TFR and the potential causes of its decline by examining countries across nine (9) regions of the world – sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, South Asia, East Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, the Caribbean, the Pacific Islands, Eastern and Southeastern Europe, and the former Soviet Socialist Republics of the Commonwealth of Independent States. The present analyses are also conducted over time, specifically from 1960 through 2002. Five (5) primary hypotheses regarding factors affecting the Total Fertility Rate are examined using feasible generalized least squares regression analysis. First, foreign debt is hypothesized to have a positive relationship to TFR. That is, holding all else constant, as foreign debt increases, TFR is expected to increase as well. Foreign debt is operationalized first, as total external debt; second, as long-term debt, and third, as total debt service as a percentage of exports of goods and services. Second, foreign aid, the level of socioeconomic development, and the extent of females' education are all hypothesized to have negative relationships to TFR. That is, all else constant, as foreign aid increases, TFR is expected to decrease. All else constant, as the level of socioeconomic development increases, TFR is also expected to decrease. All else constant, as the extent of females' education increases, TFR is also expected to decrease. Foreign aid is operationalized as first, International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) loans and International Development Agency (IDA) credits; and second, as official development assistance and official aid. The level of socioeconomic development is operationalized as the Gross National Income (GNI) per capita in terms of purchasing power parity. The extent of females' education is operationalized as first, the adult female literacy rate (ages 15 and above), and second, as the ratio of young literate females to males (ages 15 - 24). Finally, whereas previous scholars have hypothesized that industrialization reduces TFR (the Western European demographic transition hypothesis), the present research proposes that this relationship may not hold in developing countries. This possibility is investigated by analyzing the relationships between TFR and first, the value added of agriculture (as a percentage of GDP); second, the value added of industry (also as a percentage of GDP); third, the value added of manufacturing as a percentage of GDP; and fourth, the value added of services as a percentage of GDP. The findings presented here suggest first, that the foreign debt and foreign aid have differing effects on TFR in different regions of the world. Second, the effects of socioeconomic development and females' education are more consistent (than foreign debt and foreign aid) across the different regions - but intriguing variations still exist. Finally, it appears that, with very few exceptions, the Western European-based demographic transition model does not hold for non-Western and developing areas. Therefore, new, region-specific models of TFR need to be developed - and public policy needs to be based on these more accurate, more context-appropriate models.<br>M.S.<br>Department of Political Science<br>Arts and Sciences<br>Political Science
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Magoda, Cletus Mathew. "High strain-rate compressive strain of welded 300W asteel joints." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1248.
Full textAbstract:
A Thesis Submitted Towards the Partial Fulfilment Degree of
Master of Technology (M.Tech.)
FACULTY OF ENGINEERING
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
2011<br>The split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) test is the most commonly used method for
determining material properties at high rates of strain. The theory governing the specifics of
Hopkinson bar testing has been around for decades; however, it has only been for the last
decade or so that significant data processing advancements have been made. It is the intent of
this thesis to offer the insight of application of SHPB to determine the compressive dynamic
behaviour for welded low carbon steel (mild steel). It also focuses on the tensile behaviour for
unheat-treated and heat-treated welded carbon steel.
The split Hopkinson Pressure bar apparatus consists of two long slender bars that sandwich a
short cylindrical specimen between them. By striking the end of a bar, a compressive stress
wave is generated that immediately begins to traverse towards the specimen. Upon arrival at
the specimen, the wave partially reflects back towards the impact end. The remainder of the
wave transmits through the specimen and into the second bar, causing irreversible plastic
deformation in the specimen. It is shown that the reflected and transmitted waves are
proportional to the specimen's strain rate and stress, respectively. Specimen strain can be
determined by integrating the strain rate. By monitoring the strains in the two bars and the
specimen's material, stress-strain properties can be calculated.
Several factors influence the accuracy of the results, including the size and type of the data
logger, impedance mismatch of the bars with the specimens, the utilization of the appropriate
strain gauges and the strain amplifier properties, among others. A particular area of
advancement is a new technique to determine the wave's velocity in the specimen with respect
to change in medium and mechanical properties, and hence increasing the range of application
of SHPB. It is shown that by choosing specimen dimensions based on their impedance, the
transmitted stress signal-to-noise ratio can be improved. An in depth discussion of realistic
expectations of strain gages is presented, along with closed form solutions validating any
claims.
The thesis concludes with an analysis of experimental and predicted results. Several
recommendations and conclusions are made with regard to the results obtained and areas of
improvement are suggested in order to achieve accurate and more meaningful results.
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Duany, John. "Predicting Cognitive Workload with Measures from Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) and Heart Rate." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2013. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/942.
Full textAbstract:
The objective of this study was to assess low to high levels of Cognitive Workload by measuring heart rate and cortical blood flow in real-time. Four conditions were implemented into a within-subjects experimental design. Two conditions of difficulty and two conditions of trial order were used to illicit different levels of workload which will be analyzed with psychophysiological equipment. Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) has become more prominent for measuring the blood oxygenation levels in the prefrontal cortex of individuals operating in hazardous work environments, students with learning disabilities, and in research for military training. This is due to the fNIR device being highly mobile, inexpensive, and able to produce a high-spatial resolution of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex during executive functioning. Heart Rate will be measured by an Electrocardiogram, which will be used in concordance with fNIR oxygenation levels to predict if an individual is in a condition that produces low or high mental workload. Successfully utilizing heart rate and blood oxygenation data as predictors of cognitive workload may validate implementing multiple physiological devices together in real-time and may be a more accurate solution for preventing excessive workload.<br>B.S.<br>Bachelors<br>Sciences<br>Psychology
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Chow, Priscilla En-Yi. "The Effects of Socioeconomic Status on Growth Rates in Academic Achievement." Thesis, University of North Texas, 2007. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc5193/.
Full textAbstract:
The purpose of the study was to examine the differences in academic growth rates as demonstrated on the TAKS test among students based on those who received free lunches, those who received reduced-price lunches, and those not economically disadvantaged. Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) for reading and mathematics scale scores were obtained from five Texas public school districts for students who were in 3rd grade in 2003, 4th grade in 2004, 5th grade in 2005, and 6th grade in 2006. The sample included almost 10,000 students. The data were analyzed using SPSS and HLM. SPSS was used to identify descriptive statistics. Due to the nested nature of the data, HLM was used to compare data on three levels- the test level, student level, and district level. Not economically disadvantaged students scored the highest on both TAKS reading and mathematics exams with a mean scale score of 2357 and 2316 respectively in 2003. Compared to the not economically disadvantaged students, students receiving reduce-priced lunches scored approximately 100 points lower, and lowest were the students receiving free lunches, scoring another 50 points below students receiving reduced-price lunches. The results revealed that while gaps in achievement exist between SES levels, little difference exists in the growth rates of the SES subgroups. The results of this study support the need for continued effort to decrease the gap between students who are not economically disadvantaged and those receiving free or reduced-price meals.
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Rysewyk, Jonathan W. "Factors Predicting Academic Success for Impoverished Urban High School Freshmen." Digital Commons @ East Tennessee State University, 2008. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/1936.
Full textAbstract:
The purpose of the study was to identify which factors are most closely related to academic success during the freshman year for low socioeconomic students in one urban high school. This was an ex post facto study conducted in one urban high school in East Tennessee. The subjects were students enrolled in the 9th grade during the 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 academic school years. Low socioeconomic students were divided into 2 groups based on academic performance during their freshman year of high school. Students with GPAs of 2.5 or higher were classified as higher performing, low socioeconomic status (HLSES). Students with GPAs of 2.4 or lower were considered lower performing, low socioeconomic status (LLSES). The higher achieving group contained 85 students; the lower achieving group had 292 students. Relationships between 9 predictor variables (ethnicity, gender, involvement in extra curricular activities, scores on 7th grade TCAP reading-language arts and mathematics tests, number of out of school suspension days, literacy scores, mobility rates, and attendance) were examined across the 2 groups. Chi-square tests were conducted to compare the 2 groups with regard to involvement in extracurricular activities, gender, and ethnicity. All remaining quantitative predictor variables were compared using independent t tests. Two sets of multiple regressions were conducted, 1 for the higher performing group and 1 for the lower performing group, to determine which of the predictor variables had the strongest relationship to students' GPAs. From the higher performing group, 10 students were interviewed to uncover the factors they credited as having the biggest impact on their academic success during their freshman year.
Significance was found for 8 of the 9 predictor variables. Student mobility was the only non-significant factor between the groups. None of the variables had a significant relationship to the higher performing groups' GPA. Four variables, gender, number of suspension days, number of days absent, and involvement in extracurricular activities were significantly related to students' GPA in the lower performing group. Self-discipline, determination, and guidance from an adult to help them stay focused were the main factors cited for academic success by students during their freshman year.
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Lehner, Zachary M. "Determinants of exchange rate hedging an empirical analysis of U.S. small-cap industrial firms." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2011. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/459.
Full textAbstract:
Using a sample of 141 U.S. small-cap industrial firms, I examine the firm characteristics that influence its use of foreign exchange derivatives to hedge exchange rate risk. Companies in the industrial sector produce goods and services that are used for the production of another final product. The performance of this sector is closely correlated to the level of demand from the final consumer. I find firm size, the amount of foreign sales, and firm liquidity influence the firm's decision to use foreign exchange derivatives to hedge exchange rate risk. For those firms that hedge exchange rate risk using derivatives, a second test examines the firm characteristics that influence the extent of its hedging activities. I find the extent of hedging is influenced by the amount of foreign sales, the amount of foreign assets, and the number of foreign subsidiaries the firm operates. A final test examines whether certain firm characteristics influence its decision to use options as part of its hedging operations. I find no evidence that the firm characteristics examined herein influence that decision.<br>B.S.B.A.<br>Bachelors<br>Business Administration<br>Finance
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Petersen, Lucille Jacoba. "Parents' and educators' perceptions of factors influencing high rate of academic failure of learners in Clarke Estate Primary Schools." Thesis, University of the Western Cape, 2010. http://etd.uwc.ac.za/index.php?module=etd&action=viewtitle&id=gen8Srv25Nme4_5427_1308045712.
Full textAbstract:
<p>The purpose of this study was to investigate parents&rsquo<br>and educators&rsquo<br>perceptions of factors influencing high rate of academic failure of learners in Clarke Estate primary schools. A quantitative, descriptive study design was used in this study. A descriptive study is used to gain information about characteristics within a particular field of study. The instrument used was a research questionnaire as it is a quick and cheap instrument to obtain a lot of information covering a large area within a relatively short time. The study population was confined to two schools in Clarke Estate. The participants were randomly selected. The sample from the two selected schools comprised twenty educators and two hundred parents. The sample was heterogeneous, comprising both male and female.</p>
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Latimer, Janet Humphreys. "Basic Academic Skills and Post-Secondary Technical Education." Digital Commons @ East Tennessee State University, 2018. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/3499.
Full textAbstract:
The purpose of this quantitative study was to determine if there is a significant difference in WorkKeys score, skills score, theory score, and job placement rates as compared by credential and program of study at a technical college in Tennessee. The study used data retrieved from a WorkKeys database and SIMS (Student Information Management System) at a technical college. The population consisted of 445 students in seven programs from 2010-2016 who had participated in the WorkKeys online academic training modules.
The dependent variables for the study were WorkKeys score, skill score, and theory score. The independent variables were job placement status (related, non-related, not placed), program of study (Collision Repair/Motorcycle Repair, Computer Information, Welding/Machine Tool and Industrial Maintenance/Residential Maintenance), and graduation credential (diploma, certificate, none).
Based on the data collected, it was found that there was a significant difference in the WorkKeys score by credential, skill score by credential, theory score by credential, WorkKeys score by job placement status, skill score by job placement status and theory score by job placement status. The job placement status was significantly affected by the program of study. Finally, the WorkKeys score was not affected by the program of study. Additionally, the not placed status for the Computer Information program was higher than the other two categories (related and non-related) whereas the related status was the highest for the other three programs of study (WEL/MT, CRT/MOT, and IM/RBM).
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Benhaddou, Rida. "Nonparametric and Empirical Bayes Estimation Methods." Doctoral diss., University of Central Florida, 2013. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/5765.
Full textAbstract:
In the present dissertation, we investigate two different nonparametric models; empirical Bayes model and functional deconvolution model. In the case of the nonparametric empirical Bayes estimation, we carried out a complete minimax study. In particular, we derive minimax lower bounds for the risk of the nonparametric empirical Bayes estimator for a general conditional distribution. This result has never been obtained previously. In order to attain optimal convergence rates, we use a wavelet series based empirical Bayes estimator constructed in Pensky and Alotaibi (2005). We propose an adaptive version of this estimator using Lepski's method and show that the estimator attains optimal convergence rates. The theory is supplemented by numerous examples. Our study of the functional deconvolution model expands results of Pensky and Sapatinas (2009, 2010, 2011) to the case of estimating an (r+1)-dimensional function or dependent errors. In both cases, we derive minimax lower bounds for the integrated square risk over a wide set of Besov balls and construct adaptive wavelet estimators that attain those optimal convergence rates. In particular, in the case of estimating a periodic (r+1)-dimensional function, we show that by choosing Besov balls of mixed smoothness, we can avoid the ''curse of dimensionality'' and, hence, obtain higher than usual convergence rates when r is large. The study of deconvolution of a multivariate function is motivated by seismic inversion which can be reduced to solution of noisy two-dimensional convolution equations that allow to draw inference on underground layer structures along the chosen profiles. The common practice in seismology is to recover layer structures separately for each profile and then to combine the derived estimates into a two-dimensional function. By studying the two-dimensional version of the model, we demonstrate that this strategy usually leads to estimators which are less accurate than the ones obtained as two-dimensional functional deconvolutions. Finally, we consider a multichannel deconvolution model with long-range dependent Gaussian errors. We do not limit our consideration to a specific type of long-range dependence, rather we assume that the eigenvalues of the covariance matrix of the errors are bounded above and below. We show that convergence rates of the estimators depend on a balance between the smoothness parameters of the response function, the smoothness of the blurring function, the long memory parameters of the errors, and how the total number of observations is distributed among the channels.<br>Ph.D.<br>Doctorate<br>Mathematics<br>Sciences<br>Mathematics
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Summers, Sharon Slaughter. "The Educational Effects of and the Relationship between Nonpromotion and the Dropout Rate." UNF Digital Commons, 1985. http://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/33.
Full textAbstract:
The decision not to promote a student is a critical one; it could affect the rest of the student's academic career. It is imperative that such a decision be based on the best available research. This study reviews research that has been done on nonpromotion, dropouts, and the relationship between the two. Results from an examination of 1,024 dropouts' records show that 87.8% of dropouts had experienced nonpromotion one or more times. Recommendations for developing retention criteria and preventing dropouts are listed.
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Olbrych, Dawne DeVoe. "Predicting the NCLEX-RN Pass Rate at an Associate Degree Nursing Program." ScholarWorks, 2018. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/5579.
Full textAbstract:
The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) first-time pass rate for an associate degree in nursing (ADN) program was below the national mean, presenting a problem for graduates who failed the NCLEX-RN and could not enter the workforce as registered nurses. Knowles's assumptions of adult learning, Ebbinghaus's forgetting curve, and Zull's neuroscience research served as the theoretical frameworks for this study. The purpose of this study was to identify which academic and time-lapse variables predict the graduate's first-time passage for the NCLEX-RN. Archived academic records and NCLEX-RN results for all 786 graduates from one ADN program who took the NCLEX-RN for the first time in 2015 were reviewed. Binary logistic regression analysis of the data identified multiple academic and one time lag factor as significant predictors for first-time NCLEX-RN passage. Key results included positive relationships between academic variables (prerequisite grade point average [GPA], nursing GPA, cumulative GPA, final course grade in 1 medical surgical course) and NCLEX-RN passage. An inverse relationship was shown between NCLEX-RN pass and the number of nursing component failures and time lag between clinical capstone completion and first NCLEX-RN attempt. Results informed a policy recommendation to provide timely intervention and resources for students at risk, with a goal of promoting success on the first attempt of the NCLEX-RN. Increasing the numbers of graduates who successfully complete the NCLEX-RN on the first attempt and promptly join the nursing workforce will demonstrate positive social change by mitigating the nursing shortage, which promotes safe patient care.
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Walton, Frank Stewart, and University of Lethbridge Faculty of Arts and Science. "Adiabaticity of high strain rate compression testing using the Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar Apparatus." Thesis, Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Arts and Science, 1997, 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/10133/74.
Full textAbstract:
In the development of explosively formed projectiles (EFPs), researchers are faced with the problem of testing prospective metals at high strain rates. So far it has been assumed that, relative to the cooling time, the deformation time is practically instantaneous indicating that the test is adiabatc: none of the heat generated
within the metal is lost to conduction. In this paper we construct a model that subtracts out the effects of kinetic energy and uses specific heat as a function of temperature. In this way we can focus on the energy change in the specimen that can be attributed to temperature and determine just how adiabatic the high strain rate test is.<br>vi, 74 leaves : ill. ; 28 cm.
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Kidd, Karina M. "An investigation of the effectiveness of academic accommodations on the assignment completion rate of middle school students with learning disabilities /." view abstract or download file of text, 2007. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1404349101&sid=1&Fmt=2&clientId=11238&RQT=309&VName=PQD.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Oregon, 2007.<br>Typescript. Includes vita and abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 116-120). Also available for download via the World Wide Web; free to University of Oregon users.
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Ware, Mary Agnes Booker. "The effects of living arrangements on the academic performance and retention rate of college students over a four-year period." DigitalCommons@Robert W. Woodruff Library, Atlanta University Center, 1986. http://digitalcommons.auctr.edu/dissertations/904.
Full textAbstract:
Attrition in colleges and universities has been high during most of the 20th century. Today's colleges are faced with high attrition rates and declining enrollments.
With fewer students available and continuing high attrition rates, institutions have increased their recruitment efforts and reviewed strategies for retention.
Improvement of institutional services and programs, including the expansion of living/learning centers in the residence halls, organized advisement programs and curriculum reforms were among the strategies suggested for retention in the literature.
As the need to increase retention becomes more obvious, administrators will need to use all of their resources to decrease the attrition rate.
The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of living arrangements on the academic performance and retention rate of college students over a four-year period.
The ex post facto method of research was used in the study. The procedures used to obtain data for the research report included(1) permission from the president to conduct the study, (2) collecting data from pertinent offices, and (3) using enrollment data to identify the 180 subjects used in the study.
The place of residence over the four-year period was used to categorize the subjects into two groups: Students who lived on-campus and students who lived off-campus. The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores were used to match the groups. Data from existing college files were collected on academic performance and enrollment over the fouryear period. The hypotheses were tested through the use of percentages, correlation coefficients and a t-test.
Selected Findings
1. The mean academic performance of on-campus and off-campus students did not differ significantly.
2. The attrition rate after three years was more than sixty percent for both classes.
3. Students who lived-off campus dropped out in larger numbers than students who lived on-campus.
4. Female students dropped out in larger numbers than male students.
5. More graduates participated in cocurricular activities than non-graduates.
6. Some graduates and non-graduates were not involved in any activities over the fouryear period.
Conclusions
Withdrawal from this historically black college appears to be a serious problem that has a number of implications for students as well as administrators who must allocate resources and plan programs. Living on campus appeared to be more positively related to retention and academic performance than living off-campus; participation in co-curricular activities appears to enhance student integration into the social system of the college. Therefore, a structure seems to be needed to more fully involve students in the total curriculum. Living arrangements appear to be a mechanism that administrators can use as a basis for planning and implementing programs designed to increase academic performance and retention.
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Destefano, Leonard G. "Commercial mortgage market liquidity and its effect on capitalization rates." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2010. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/1395.
Full textAbstract:
This item is only available in print in the UCF Libraries. If this is your Honors Thesis, you can help us make it available online for use by researchers around the world by following the instructions on the distribution consent form at http://library.ucf.edu/Systems/DigitalInitiatives/DigitalCollections/InternetDistributionConsentAgreementForm.pdf You may also contact the project coordinator, Kerri Bottorff, at kerri.bottorff@ucf.edu for more information.<br>Bachelors<br>Business Administration<br>Real Estate
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Lowe, Alexander M. "Estimation of electrochemical noise impedance and corrosion rates from electrochemical noise measurements." Curtin University of Technology, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, 2002. http://espace.library.curtin.edu.au:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=12723.
Full textAbstract:
Electrochemical noise refers to the spontaneous fluctuations in potential and current that can be observed on a corroding metal. The use of electrochemical noise for obtaining information on the corrosion process generates much interest in research fields. One important application is the measurement of corrosion rate. This can be achieved using the electrochemical noise of a pair of electrically coupled corroding metals to obtain an estimate of electrochemical impedance - an abstract quantity that reflects various aspects of the corrosion process.There are a number of problems associated with estimation of impedance information from the electrochemical noise data, particularly regarding data pre-treatment, accuracy and precision. In addition, the present methods are incomplete: current literature does not offer information regarding the phase of the impedance; and assumptions regarding symmetry of an electrode pair cannot be tested without additional measurements.The thesis addresses the above mentioned problems. Specifically,analysis of the impedance estimation process is given to determine how precision can be affected by various factors;a novel signal processing technique is described that is shown to yield a local optimum precision;the application of the proposed signal processing to time varying systems is demonstrated by use of a time varying, frequency dependent impedance estimate;a technique for recovering phase information, given certain conditions, is suggested so that Nyquist impedance diagrams can be constructed; anda technique for testing the symmetry of a coupled pair of corroding metals is described.An integral part of electrochemical noise analysis is the software used for numerical computation. The Matlab package from MathWorks inc. provides an extensible platform for electrochemical noise analysis. Matlab code is provided in Appendix A to implement ++<br>much of the theory discussed in the thesis.Impedance analysis and many other electrochemical corrosion monitoring techniques are primarily used for uniform corrosion, where the corrosion patterns occur uniformly over the exposed surface. In order to map localised corrosion, where the corrosion is typically concentrated within a small area, a wire beam electrode can be used. A wire beam electrode is a surface that is divided into a matrix of mini-electrodes so that the corrosion rate at different points can be monitored. However, manual connection of each mini-electrode to the measurement device can prove cumbersome. The final chapter of this thesis describes the design and testing of specialised multiplexing hardware to automate the process.In general, the thesis shows that by careful conditioning of the electrochemical noise prior to analysis, many of the problems with the technique of impedance estimation from the electrochemical noise data can be overcome. It is shown that the electrochemical noise impedance estimation can be extended to encompass a time varying, frequency dependent quantity for studying dynamic systems; that phase information can be recovered from electrochemical noise for the purpose of constructing Nyquist impedance diagrams; and that asymmetric electrodes can be detected without requiring additional measurements.
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Browning, Nicole. "Habitat Use and Feeding Ecology of Delphinids Inferred from Stable Isotopes and Fatty Acid Signatures." Doctoral diss., University of Central Florida, 2013. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/5773.
Full textAbstract:
Prey availability, directly or indirectly, affects all aspects of a predator’s life history and is a primary factor influencing habitat selection and movements. This is especially true for delphinid species where it has been documented that the behaviors and movements of dolphins are strongly influenced by food availability. Unfortunately, the feeding ecology and habitat use patterns of many of these species are poorly understood. Many methodologies that have been employed to explore these facets of dolphin ecology have limitations and constraints or are logistically infeasible. Stable isotope and fatty acid signature analyses have been used extensively on a wide variety of species and have been shown to be methodologies that overcome some of these limitations. These approaches can provide information on feeding habits and the geographic origin of the prey thereby giving tremendous insight into habitat usage patterns. The present study applied stable isotope and fatty acid signature methodologies to gain insight into the feeding ecology and habitat usage of various dolphin species to improve upon our understanding of these important facets of their life histories.
The application of stable isotope analysis in ecological studies relies on both species and tissue specific measurements of parameters such as diet-tissue discrimination factors, the difference in stable isotope ratio between a consumer and its prey, and turnover rates, the change in tissue isotopic composition attributable to growth and tissue replacement. Initially, controlled studies were conducted and animals were switched from one isotopically distinct diet to another which allowed for the calculation of these values in bottlenose dolphin skin. Diet-tissue discrimination factors for dolphin skin averaged 2.20‰ for nitrogen and 0.82‰ for carbon. Average turnover rates (expressed in half-lives) in dolphin skin were 17 days for nitrogen and 16.5 days for carbon. The present study represents the first reported diet-tissue discrimination factors and turnover rates for carbon and nitrogen in the skin of any cetacean.
Next, skin samples were collected from net-entangled and free-ranging dolphin species off the coast of South Africa and analyzed for stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope ratios. The Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus), the common dolphin (Delphinus capensis), the striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), and the humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) all occur off the southeastern coast of South Africa with overlapping distributions. Isotopic signatures revealed resource partitioning among these four species of dolphins with
differences in diets, as well as differences in the use of habitat. Mean values for δ 15N ranged from 11.92 ± 0.11‰ (n=3) for striped dolphins to 14.95 ± 0.19‰ (n=27) for humpback dolphins, indicating that these species are feeding at different trophic levels. Striped dolphin carbon isotope signatures were consistent with evidence that they typically forage further offshore (-17.94 ± 0.14‰) and the carbon isotope values of the humpback dolphins reflected their use of inshore habitats by comparison (-15.16 ± 0.12‰). Common and bottlenose dolphins for nitrogen (13.66 ± 0.08‰, 14.35 ± 0.07‰ respectively) and carbon (-15.48 ± 0.07‰, -15.76 ± 0.06‰ respectively) fell in between these two extremes. Analyses also revealed that males and females have differences in their diets. On average, males were enriched in δ15N by 0.74‰ compared to females suggesting some dietary differences in prey composition. Isotopic niche width has been compared to traditional measures of niches used by ecologists and was measured for these South African dolphins. Humpback and bottlenose dolphins had the largest standard elliptical area (SEA), striped dolphins had the smallest SEA, and the SEA for common dolphins was intermediate. Larger SEA values reflect a broader trophic diversity, while smaller SEA values reflect a narrower trophic diversity or a more specialized niche.
Finally, a resident group of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) in east central Florida were sampled and explored for differences in isotopic signatures based on sex, age category, season, and location within the IRL. In addition to stable isotope analysis, fatty acid analysis was also used to compare and contrast the findings between the two techniques. Comparison of stable isotopic signatures revealed differences among age categories and among locations. Fatty acid analysis was able to discern further and found
differences in the signatures between male and female dolphins. The combination of both techniques allowed for an extensive examination into the feeding ecology and habitat utilization of these resident dolphins. The Bayesian mixing model (Stable Isotope Analysis in R- SIAR) was validated using controlled study data and was found to be accurate when inputting isotopically distinct prey items (sources). The mixing model was then used to estimate the proportions of prey items that make up the diet of Indian River Lagoon bottlenose dolphins. Two models were run in which dolphins were grouped together (model 1) and dolphins were separated by year (model 2). Results of the model reaffirm stomach content analysis results previously obtained.
Stable isotope techniques were applied to various dolphin species to gain better understanding of their feeding ecology and habitat utilization. Resource partitioning was suggested for four South African dolphin species which gives crucial insight into the ecology of both at-risk and data-deficient species. These discernments will provide much needed data to conservationists and managers and contributes to our general understanding of these species.
This is the first study of its kind to undertake controlled diet studies with bottlenose dolphins which determined diet-tissue discrimination values and turnover rates for carbon and nitrogen isotopes in the skin of any cetacean. The current study is also the first of its kind to attempt to model bottlenose dolphin diet in the Indian River using stable isotopes. Food, being a primary driver for many species, can lend explanation of things like movement patterns, habitat usage, competition, reproductive success, survival, and the spread of diseases, which has been an issue in Indian River dolphins in recent years. Dietary information modeled in this study provided new data for the relative contribution of a suite of potential prey to an apex predator in the Indian River. Data produced through the current study contributes towards a large, unprecedented step forward in understanding dolphin ecology and the roll of cetacean stable isotope ecology.<br>Ph.D.<br>Doctorate<br>Biology<br>Sciences<br>Conservation Biology Ecology and Organismal Biology
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Eaby, Jamie L. "A study of the use of hedging by bankrupt firms." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2000. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/189.
Full textAbstract:
This item is only available in print in the UCF Libraries. If this is your Honors Thesis, you can help us make it available online for use by researchers around the world by following the instructions on the distribution consent form at http://library.ucf.edu/Systems/DigitalInitiatives/DigitalCollections/InternetDistributionConsentAgreementForm.pdf You may also contact the project coordinator, Kerri Bottorff, at kerri.bottorff@ucf.edu for more information.<br>Bachelors<br>Business Administration<br>Finance
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Shanklin, Jennifer Rae. "The impact of accountability on student response rate in a secondary physical education badminton unit." Virtual Press, 2004. http://www.oregonpdf.org.
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Lowe, Alexander M. "Estimation of electrochemical noise impedance and corrosion rates from electrochemical noise measurements." Thesis, Curtin University, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/209.
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Electrochemical noise refers to the spontaneous fluctuations in potential and current that can be observed on a corroding metal. The use of electrochemical noise for obtaining information on the corrosion process generates much interest in research fields. One important application is the measurement of corrosion rate. This can be achieved using the electrochemical noise of a pair of electrically coupled corroding metals to obtain an estimate of electrochemical impedance - an abstract quantity that reflects various aspects of the corrosion process.There are a number of problems associated with estimation of impedance information from the electrochemical noise data, particularly regarding data pre-treatment, accuracy and precision. In addition, the present methods are incomplete: current literature does not offer information regarding the phase of the impedance; and assumptions regarding symmetry of an electrode pair cannot be tested without additional measurements.The thesis addresses the above mentioned problems. Specifically,analysis of the impedance estimation process is given to determine how precision can be affected by various factors;a novel signal processing technique is described that is shown to yield a local optimum precision;the application of the proposed signal processing to time varying systems is demonstrated by use of a time varying, frequency dependent impedance estimate;a technique for recovering phase information, given certain conditions, is suggested so that Nyquist impedance diagrams can be constructed; anda technique for testing the symmetry of a coupled pair of corroding metals is described.An integral part of electrochemical noise analysis is the software used for numerical computation. The Matlab package from MathWorks inc. provides an extensible platform for electrochemical noise analysis. Matlab code is provided in Appendix A to implement much of the theory discussed in the thesis.Impedance analysis and many other electrochemical corrosion monitoring techniques are primarily used for uniform corrosion, where the corrosion patterns occur uniformly over the exposed surface. In order to map localised corrosion, where the corrosion is typically concentrated within a small area, a wire beam electrode can be used. A wire beam electrode is a surface that is divided into a matrix of mini-electrodes so that the corrosion rate at different points can be monitored. However, manual connection of each mini-electrode to the measurement device can prove cumbersome. The final chapter of this thesis describes the design and testing of specialised multiplexing hardware to automate the process.In general, the thesis shows that by careful conditioning of the electrochemical noise prior to analysis, many of the problems with the technique of impedance estimation from the electrochemical noise data can be overcome. It is shown that the electrochemical noise impedance estimation can be extended to encompass a time varying, frequency dependent quantity for studying dynamic systems; that phase information can be recovered from electrochemical noise for the purpose of constructing Nyquist impedance diagrams; and that asymmetric electrodes can be detected without requiring additional measurements.
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Lemmons, Justin M. "Nutrient Availability Affects Flowering Rate but has Limited Influence on Morphology of the Hooded Pitcher Plant, Sarracenia minor." UNF Digital Commons, 2013. http://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/475.
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Carnivorous plants perform as both producers and consumers. Botanical carnivory has evolved in sunny, moist, nutrient-poor environments, and the primary nutrient supplied by prey is proposed to be nitrogen. There is a trade-off between carnivorous and photosynthetic structures which corresponds to degree of carnivory expression and available nutrients. This study was conducted on the hooded pitcher plant, Sarracenia minor, which is a facultative wetland plant and Florida-threatened species. Sarracenia minor is considered a specialist myrmecophage and ants characterize the majority of attracted and captured prey. Ants not only provide nutritional benefit, but also protection against herbivory. A natural population of S. minor in northeast Florida was selected to test response to prey and fertilizer nitrogen in a press-experimental design. Introduced fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) and ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) were used as prey and fertilizer nitrogen sources, respectively. Treatments included: 1) ant addition; 2) fertilizer addition; 3) ant addition/fertilizer addition; 4) no ants/no fertilizer; 5) control. Treatments were administered biweekly and morphological characteristics and herbivory were measured monthly from April-November 2012. Results indicated no significant treatment effects on plant performance and morphological characteristics, except for a significantly greater number of flowers displayed by the nutrient-deprived group (p < .005). Herbivory by Exyra semicrocea also showed a marginally significant negative effect on the tallest pitchers per ramet. Since nitrogen is primarily stored by pitchers and allocated to new growth in the following growing season, the predictive power of this study may be limited. However, increased flowering rate in the nutrient-deprived group suggests that plants were induced to flower from nutrient stress. Also, a burn at the beginning of the study likely influenced nutrient availability and plant response to experimental treatments. In conclusion, stress may have occurred from both fire and nutrients, and S. minor showed resistance and poor response to nitrogen addition.
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Brown-Minis, Elizabeth N. "The effect of participation in a community college mentoring program on the retention rate and academic performance of first-time, full-time students /." free to MU campus, to others for purchase, 1999. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/mo/fullcit?p9953847.
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Netshirovha, Thivhilaheli Richard. "Protein accretion and its effects on growth rate and testicular traits of Kolbroek boars." Thesis, Bloemfontein: Central University of Technology, Free State, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/11462/673.
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Cinclair, Carol. "The Effects of Participation in a Buddy System on the Self-Concept, Academic Achievement, Attrition Rate, and Congruence Level of Community College Developmental Studies Students." Thesis, North Texas State University, 1985. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331958/.
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This dissertation sought to determine the effects of a buddy system on a student's self-concept, academic achievement, attrition rate, and congruence levels. The buddy system treatment randomly paired two students for the purposes of sharing ideas, working on assignments, getting to know each other, and supporting one another. The study included three randomly selected sections of pre-college level, developmental writing classes from the Brookhaven College of the Dallas County Community College District. Three other classes served as the control group, and one instructor taught all six sections of the course. Three instruments were used as measures of change: the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale (TSCS), designed by William H. Fitts, measured self-concept levels; the Personality and Educational Environment Scale (PEES), created by Roger Boshier, measured congruence levels; and a written paragraph measured achievement levels in English. Attrition percentages were based on the number of students enrolled during the second week of class who were not present during the sixteenth week of class. To test for significance, an analysis of covariance procedure was used on the TSCS, PEES, and written paragraph results, and a test for the difference between proportions for independent groups was used on the attrition percentages. The class sections were nested under either the experimental or the control group to identify significant differences between class sections. On the TSCS, a significance of .96 among sections and .48 between groups indicated no significant change had occurred in self-concept levels. For the PEES, a significance of .30 among sections and .75 between groups indicated no change had occurred in congruence levels. Finally, on the paragraph assessment, a significance of .87 among sections and .31 between groups showed no change had occurred in achievement levels. However, the test for significance of the difference between attrition percentages revealed that the buddy system treatment was an effective method of retention.
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Cao, Xiongwei. "The Dollar Hegemony and the U.S.-China Monetary Disputes." Master's thesis, University of Central Florida, 2012. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/5150.
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This thesis analyzes the current disputes between the United States and China over the exchange rate of the Chinese currency renminbi using an International Political Economy (IPE) analysis. Monetary relations are not mere economic affairs, but bear geopolitical implications. Money is power. Money is politics. The pursuit of monetary power is an important part of great power politics. Based on this assertion, the thesis studies past cases of monetary power struggles between the United States and the Great Britain, the Soviet Union, Japan, and the European Union (EU), respectively. The thesis then investigates the dollar's status as the dominant international reserve currency in the current international monetary system, as well as the power that this unique status can generate and provide. The dollar's monetary hegemony has become the main characteristic of the current international monetary system and an important power source for continued U.S. hegemony. The dollar's hegemony and the asymmetrical interdependency between the dollar and the renminbi are the source and the key basis for the recent U.S.-China monetary disagreements. The U.S.-China monetary disputes reflect not only each country's respective domestic interests and perceived benefits, but also the monetary power struggle between the two biggest global economies. Predictions are also entertained for the future monetary relations between the two countries, as well as the geopolitical implications that this relationship may have for the U.S.-China bilateral relationship in coming decades.<br>ID: 031001327; System requirements: World Wide Web browser and PDF reader.; Mode of access: World Wide Web.; Title from PDF title page (viewed April 8, 2013).; Thesis (M.A.)--University of Central Florida, 2012.; Includes bibliographical references (p. 118-126).<br>M.A.<br>Masters<br>Political Science<br>Sciences<br>Political Science; International Studies