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- Title
- Inhibition of Emotions as a Moderator of the Relationship Between Victimization Experiences and Aggression in Preadolescence.
- Creator
- Aults, Christopher D., Pauletti, Rachel E., Cooper, Patrick J., Graduate College, Perry, David G.
- Abstract/Description
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Chronic victimization by peers sometimes fosters aggression in children (Dodge, 2011; Hodges & Perry, 1999). Recent data suggest that cross-gender victimization is more common in girls during middle childhood (Benbenishty, & Astor, 2005). That is, girls are picked on by boys at a proportionally higher rate than boys are picked on by girls. However, the possibility that enduring cognitive structures moderate effects of victimization on aggression—by serving as processing filters through which...
Show moreChronic victimization by peers sometimes fosters aggression in children (Dodge, 2011; Hodges & Perry, 1999). Recent data suggest that cross-gender victimization is more common in girls during middle childhood (Benbenishty, & Astor, 2005). That is, girls are picked on by boys at a proportionally higher rate than boys are picked on by girls. However, the possibility that enduring cognitive structures moderate effects of victimization on aggression—by serving as processing filters through which children perceive, interpret, and respond to the adverse experiences—remains unexplored. In this study, we assessed whether victimization experiences at the hands of the other sex increased aggression over the school year. We measured peer-nominated aggression toward the other sex and victimization by the other sex in 195 children (94 girls, 101 boys; M age 10.1 years). We also examined self-reported inhibition of emotions as a possible moderator. Results suggest that aggression did not increase over time if boys were victimized by other boys, but the more that boys were victimized by girls, the more their aggression increased girls’ aggression was unaffected by victimization by peers of either sex as a main effect. However, inhibition of emotions moderated the effect of victimization on aggression in both sexes. Thus, the experience of being victimized by the other sex led to an increase in aggression toward the other sex only when inhibition of emotions was high, rather than low. These findings highlight the importance of examining interactive models that contribute to aggression in children.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005868
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Changes in Ant Species Distribution on Sea Turtle Nesting Beaches in St Croix, US Virgin Islands.
- Creator
- Balkaran, Kavita, Wetterer, James K., Graduate College, Romais, Danielle K., Balkaran, Michael, Balkaran, Deavica
- Abstract/Description
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Invasive predaceous ants can cause chaos in their new habitats by competing for resources, increasing or decreasing preys or predators, and even threatening the next generation of offsprings. The red imported fire ant RIFA, Solenopsis invicta is a generalist, omnivorous exotic ant from South America. It has been causing ecological, agricultural, and economical havoc in the USA and other parts of the world. Solenopsis invicta preys on pipped eggs and hatchlings of ground nesting birds and...
Show moreInvasive predaceous ants can cause chaos in their new habitats by competing for resources, increasing or decreasing preys or predators, and even threatening the next generation of offsprings. The red imported fire ant RIFA, Solenopsis invicta is a generalist, omnivorous exotic ant from South America. It has been causing ecological, agricultural, and economical havoc in the USA and other parts of the world. Solenopsis invicta preys on pipped eggs and hatchlings of ground nesting birds and reptiles and they are also found on sea turtle nesting beaches. We hypothesized that there will be a change in the fire ant species distribution at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge SPNWR after the first follow-up survey done in 2010, and at Jack Bay after the baseline study in 2011; both nesting beaches are in St Croix, US Virgin Islands. Baited index cards with tuna were set out for approximately two hours then ants were collected in separate marked bags. They were frozen then preserved in ethanol and finally identified. Solenopsis invicta was the most common exotic species at SPNWR. It was significantly more abundant p0.02 than the other fire ant species, Solenopsis geminata which was more abundant in both the 2010 survey and the baseline survey in 2006 at SPNWR. Neither of the fire ant species was found at Jack Bay. This increase in RIFA can become a serious threat to the next generation of sea turtles if its abundance continues to increase at SPNWR.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005135
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Defying the Feminized Scale: Women Weighing in on Eating Problems from Cyberspace.
- Creator
- Baugh, Arely B., Graduate College
- Abstract/Description
-
Eating problems – compulsive eating, bulimia, and anorexia – have acquired a complicated symbolic significance that threatens the efficiency of prevention and treatments for such ailments. General and professional conceptualizations of “eating disorders” presume a very narrow and homogenous group of women i.e. young, white, middle-class, and heterosexual victims of a “culture of thinness” and other psychological and psychiatric pathologies Gremillion, 2003; Magnusson & Marecek, 2012; Menassa,...
Show moreEating problems – compulsive eating, bulimia, and anorexia – have acquired a complicated symbolic significance that threatens the efficiency of prevention and treatments for such ailments. General and professional conceptualizations of “eating disorders” presume a very narrow and homogenous group of women i.e. young, white, middle-class, and heterosexual victims of a “culture of thinness” and other psychological and psychiatric pathologies Gremillion, 2003; Magnusson & Marecek, 2012; Menassa, 2004. Consequently, professional discourse, research, and treatment of “eating disorders” neglect and often dismiss the realities of Other women; i.e., minority women, women in other countries, working-class and poor women, older women, and queer women Nasser, Katzman, & Gordon, 2001; Orbach, 1998; Thompson, 1994. Using a critical feminist psychological approach, together with the stories of women “beyond the margins” of “eating disorders,” this study seeks to 1 dispel the damaging myths and stereotypes about eating problems, 2 uncover their embedded connections to systems of racist, sexist, imperialist, patriarchal, and class oppression, and 3 argue that by including all women’s experiences and their contextual interrelations through different systems of oppressions, we can accomplish a better, more complete and unbiased understanding of these ubiquitous and complex methods of coping that could guide the development of more efficient preventative and recovery treatments.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005136
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Heat Transfer Characterization of Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers.
- Creator
- Betancourt, Arturo, Curet, Oscar M., Graduate College
- Abstract/Description
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Shell-and-tube heat exchangers (STHXs) are a popular choice in the petroleum refining industry, chemical industry, food processing industry and in power generation plants. This kind of heat exchanger is made up of an array of baffles that redirects the working fluid to increase heat transfer. The objective of this work is to understand the underlying physics of the heat transfer in a shell-and-tube heat exchanger and its interconnection to the fluid structure associated with their design....
Show moreShell-and-tube heat exchangers (STHXs) are a popular choice in the petroleum refining industry, chemical industry, food processing industry and in power generation plants. This kind of heat exchanger is made up of an array of baffles that redirects the working fluid to increase heat transfer. The objective of this work is to understand the underlying physics of the heat transfer in a shell-and-tube heat exchanger and its interconnection to the fluid structure associated with their design. This research focuses on the steady state three dimensional analysis of the time averaged turbulent flow and heat transfer characterization of the shell side of a small scale single segmented baffle heat exchanger. The study is carried out using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software package ANSYS: FLUENT 15.0 on a hybrid unstructured mesh. The CFD results are then compared against experimental results. The Reynolds averaged-Navier-stokes (RANS) based turbulent model realizable is used to model the turbulence inside the heat exchanger. The results obtained from CFD and experiment from the shell side wall outlet temperature differ by 5 %. Based on the computational results it is found that the regions of highest velocity at the inlet and in the core flow lead to a higher local heat transfer enhancement. A better understanding of the complex flow and heat transfer regimes inside a shell and tube heat exchanger given by this work would aid to further the development of more cost efficient and effective heat exchanger designs.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005869
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Characterizing Immune Cells of Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.
- Creator
- Bible, Brittany, Zeng, Menghua, Graduate College, Tamjidi, Saba, Bossart, Gregory D., Nouri-Shirazi, Mahyar
- Abstract/Description
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Background: Marine mammals are ideal sentinel species for human health due to exposure to the same oceans and consumption of the same foods. There have been many studies which demonstrate that wild Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins are exposed to high levels of contaminants which lead to a suppressed immune system and are therefore more susceptible to opportunistic infections, many of which are zoonotic diseases. However, nearly no research has been done on determining defects in the immune cell...
Show moreBackground: Marine mammals are ideal sentinel species for human health due to exposure to the same oceans and consumption of the same foods. There have been many studies which demonstrate that wild Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins are exposed to high levels of contaminants which lead to a suppressed immune system and are therefore more susceptible to opportunistic infections, many of which are zoonotic diseases. However, nearly no research has been done on determining defects in the immune cell population of dolphins, especially Dendritic Cells DCs that are essential for initiating an immune response. Hypothesis: We hypothesize phenotypic and functional differences in the Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells PBMC, including DC precursors, of wild dolphins as compared to managed dolphins. Methods: Specifically in this study, we have used terrestrial-specific antibodies and growth factors to characterize immune cells in PBMC and to generate monocyte-derived DCs. Results: We have identified cross-reactive terrestrial antibodies that could detect immune cell subsets within PBMC, including B cells, T cells, NK cells, monocytes and APCs. Interestingly, using these antibodies we found significant changes in immune cell subsets within PBMC of wild and managed dolphins. Finally among the terrestrial DC growth factors tested we found rat GM-CSF and IL-4 generated DCs expressing higher levels of CD11c, CD14, CD40, CD80, CD86, MHC I and MHC II. Conclusion: Our findings allow us to further study defects in the immune cells, especially DCs, in response to environmental contaminants.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005137
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Are Attachment Strategy and the Quality of infant care Moderated by Cortisol? A study on the attachment strategies from the Dynamic Maturation Model to attachment development.
- Creator
- Boklaga, Susan, Frain, Michael, Sperry, Len, Graduate College, Jones, Nancy Aaron
- Abstract/Description
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Attachment strategies are patterns of attachment that develop over the lifespan, and provide a description of interpersonal behavior along with a functional system for diagnosing psychopathology. Genetic factors, in the context of development and the environment regulate the maturation process. As the brain matures, it synthesizes past memories with present experiences in order to judge the behavior of others in future relationships. This is significant because the purpose of the attachment...
Show moreAttachment strategies are patterns of attachment that develop over the lifespan, and provide a description of interpersonal behavior along with a functional system for diagnosing psychopathology. Genetic factors, in the context of development and the environment regulate the maturation process. As the brain matures, it synthesizes past memories with present experiences in order to judge the behavior of others in future relationships. This is significant because the purpose of the attachment figure is to provide protection and aid the child in “making sense” of information made available to them. Research in adult psychopathology continues to show a correlation between adult psychopathology, cortisol, and disruptions in the childhood attachment system. This study will examine how the Dynamic Maturation Model theory of attachment strategies influence care that mothers give to their infants, and if cortisol serves as a moderator. The Adult Attachment Interview and Infant Care Index will be administered to mother/infant dyads. Attachment strategies and quality of infant care indicated by both measurements will be coded , correlated, and cortisol measured. If findings indicate a correlation, treatment interventions can be designed for post- postpartum mothers to prevent long term child and adult mental health psychopathology and associated social problems that may have their etiology in childhood.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005870
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Is Reflective Functioning a Mediating Factor in Secure Relationships between Parents and Children and can it prevent juvenile crime?.
- Creator
- Boklaga, Susan, Frain, Michael, Graduate College, Jones, Nancy Aaron
- Abstract/Description
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Memories of early relationships and attachments are coded into the brain as an internal working model These models include expectations, appraisals, and rules for processing or excluding information that remain throughout development. The process is also known as Mentalization and involves the child developing the capacity to correctly interpret the behavioral cues of others through use of reflective functioning. Children with secure attachments develop the capacity to mentalize and develop...
Show moreMemories of early relationships and attachments are coded into the brain as an internal working model These models include expectations, appraisals, and rules for processing or excluding information that remain throughout development. The process is also known as Mentalization and involves the child developing the capacity to correctly interpret the behavioral cues of others through use of reflective functioning. Children with secure attachments develop the capacity to mentalize and develop minimal psychopathology that follows them into adulthood. Insecure attachments in children are consequential due to the parent’s failure to incorporate their own reflective functioning capabilities into their child rearing practices which results in ineffective parenting.
Possible consequential long term effects include: child and adult psychopathology, learning difficulties, and overall societal decline as children repeat the negative trajectories of their parents due to the failure of the parent and child to effectively use their reflective functioning abilities. These children are high risk to develop adult personality disorders, particularly Borderline Personality Disorder
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005138
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Sea Level Rise Misconceptions in Broward County, FL.
- Creator
- Bolter, Keren P., Hindle, Tobin, Graduate College
- Abstract/Description
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Global climate change stressors downscale to specific local vulnerabilities, thus requiring tailored adaptation strategies. Southeast Florida is uniquely vulnerable in terms of exposure to sea level rise due to low-lying porous limestone geology, high-valued coastal properties, treasured ecosystems, and dense populations at risk. Coastal populations are particularly at risk due to erosion, inundation and storm surge, but interior populations are also susceptible to rising water tables and...
Show moreGlobal climate change stressors downscale to specific local vulnerabilities, thus requiring tailored adaptation strategies. Southeast Florida is uniquely vulnerable in terms of exposure to sea level rise due to low-lying porous limestone geology, high-valued coastal properties, treasured ecosystems, and dense populations at risk. Coastal populations are particularly at risk due to erosion, inundation and storm surge, but interior populations are also susceptible to rising water tables and extended periods of inundation amplified by SLR. Robust SLR adaptation options require significant economic costs that people may not be willing to pay for if they do not understand their real risk. If perceived risk does not adequately line up with actual risk, the necessary strategies may not be implemented.
This study aims to compare perceived risk to actual risk to sea level rise in Broward County, FL. Perceived risk of residents, measured via an online survey, was layered over actual risk in terms of flooding, storm surge, and loss of property. Using GIS, a coastal vulnerability index was constructed for the actual risk, and principal component analysis identified the key factors influencing perceived risk. Results show where risk is underestimated, realistic, or overestimated, quantified both spatially and demographically. The concerns of residents are misaligned with the true vulnerability on many impacts, while others were very accurately understood. There are many opportunities for resilience that require preparation and adaptation. The first step to solving a problem is acknowledging that it exists. Where should outreach be targeted for increasing awareness?
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005139
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Overactive Behavior, Peer Rejection, and Interactive Play in Head Start Preschoolers School Readiness Moderates Social Outcomes.
- Creator
- Bortman, Gilly, Laursen, Brett, Graduate College, Bulotsky-Shearer, Rebecca J.
- Abstract/Description
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Theorists and researchers have emphasized the importance of interactive peer play for children’s social-emotional and cognitive development. Children from low socioeconomic backgrounds are at increased risk for social-emotional and cognitive difficulties. Therefore, it is important to determine the causes of interactive peer play, particularly in a high-risk sample of Head Start preschoolers. Overactive behavior at the beginning of the preschool year has been shown to negatively predict...
Show moreTheorists and researchers have emphasized the importance of interactive peer play for children’s social-emotional and cognitive development. Children from low socioeconomic backgrounds are at increased risk for social-emotional and cognitive difficulties. Therefore, it is important to determine the causes of interactive peer play, particularly in a high-risk sample of Head Start preschoolers. Overactive behavior at the beginning of the preschool year has been shown to negatively predict changes in interactive play between the beginning and end of the preschool year. However, possible mechanisms of this association have been underexplored. The main purpose of this study will be to determine whether peer rejection mediates the association between overactive behavior and changes in interactive play and whether mediation is conditional on children’s school readiness. If it is found that moderated mediation exists for overactive children with low school readiness, children who present both of these characteristics at the beginning of the preschool year should be provided with preventative support.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005140
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Human/Non-Human Primate Interface in Dania Beach, Florida.
- Creator
- Broemel, Erin T., Williams, Deborah, Graduate College, Detwiler, Kate M.
- Abstract/Description
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The frequency of interactions between humans and non-human primates has risen in past decades due to the loss of primate habitat. Many primates now live within human habitats, raising questions about how humans interact with and affect primates. Dania Beach, Florida provides an unusual opportunity to study the dynamics of human interactions with a population of introduced primates. We examined the effect of human behavior on three groups of green vervet monkeys, Chlorocebus sabaeus, through...
Show moreThe frequency of interactions between humans and non-human primates has risen in past decades due to the loss of primate habitat. Many primates now live within human habitats, raising questions about how humans interact with and affect primates. Dania Beach, Florida provides an unusual opportunity to study the dynamics of human interactions with a population of introduced primates. We examined the effect of human behavior on three groups of green vervet monkeys, Chlorocebus sabaeus, through behavioral observations conducted from January-February 2014. North Group A, located on business property, is provisioned 3x daily with nutrient dense fruits and nuts. These monkeys are habituated to human presence and appear to benefit from positive interactions with humans. North Group B, located within mangrove forest near businesses, is provisioned 2x daily with fruits, and restaurant food 2x weekly. This group is less habituated than North Group A, and avoids human contact outside of provisioning. In contrast, South Group C is situated within a residential area and has a history of being trapped since 1993. They are minimally provisioned, and rely on human food items from trash. South Group C exhibits defensive and aggressive behaviors towards humans. These results suggest that primates living in this group experience a negative human relationship, which may lead to an increase in stress levels. Additional exploration into the Dania Beach human/non-human primate interface is required to better understand the potential link between negative human interactions and primate proximity to residential areas.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005141
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Engaging Eats: The Impact of Cuisine on the Tourist Immersion Experience in a Theme Park Setting.
- Creator
- Broemel, Erin T., Graduate College
- Abstract/Description
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Each year over 300 million people visit theme parks, making them the major vacation destination worldwide. Theme parks are known for their elaborate spectacle, the creation of artificial realities through intricate immersive experiences including costumed characters, stage shows, and extravagant decor. A unique avenue of research, themed spaces are becoming of greater interest to scholars particularly in regards to the authenticity of the experience and the creation of a hyperreality. Though...
Show moreEach year over 300 million people visit theme parks, making them the major vacation destination worldwide. Theme parks are known for their elaborate spectacle, the creation of artificial realities through intricate immersive experiences including costumed characters, stage shows, and extravagant decor. A unique avenue of research, themed spaces are becoming of greater interest to scholars particularly in regards to the authenticity of the experience and the creation of a hyperreality. Though many aspects of the theme park experience have been reviewed, little focus has been given to the role of food in the overall immersion, particularly how food extends the spectacle theme into a created reality. This study examines the function of food within a highly immersive theme park setting, and how it contributes to the spectacle. Research was conducted from December 2014 to February 2015 at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Orlando Resort. A total of 363 survey responses and 21 semi-structured interviews were collected. Themed food was found to further immerse the guest in the themed experience, though visual cues remained the primary sensory stimulus. However, guests considered the location to be more authentic when coupled with a themed food item, as opposed to a generic food choice. This study determined that themed food functions as an extension of the spectacle by means of maintaining the illusion, and contributes to the overall exhibition of the themed space. Further research is needed to understand the overall function theme parks serve to society.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005871
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Differences in situational perception moderated by presence (absence) of others.
- Creator
- Brown, Nicolas A., Serfass, David G., Sherman, Ryne A., Graduate College
- Date Issued
- 2013-04-12
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3361277
- Subject Headings
- Situations, Psychology
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Dosimetric Consequences From Minimal Displacements In Abpi With Savi Applicators.
- Creator
- Chandrasekara, Shereen, Pella, Silvia, Leventouri, Theodora, Graduate College
- Abstract/Description
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Purpose: To highlight the importance of provide proper solid immobilization initially and in every treatment in ABPI with brachytherapy. Materials and Methods: 100 patients receiving brachytherapy treatments in ABPI using the Savi applicators were considered for the study. The CT scans used in the initial plan was compared with every scan obtained before each treatment. Each of these scans were exported in the planning system and registered with the initial plan. Dosimetric evaluations were...
Show morePurpose: To highlight the importance of provide proper solid immobilization initially and in every treatment in ABPI with brachytherapy. Materials and Methods: 100 patients receiving brachytherapy treatments in ABPI using the Savi applicators were considered for the study. The CT scans used in the initial plan was compared with every scan obtained before each treatment. Each of these scans were exported in the planning system and registered with the initial plan. Dosimetric evaluations were performed with their consequences to the ribs and the skin surface. Results: Making the dosimetric comparison for the critical points on the ribs and skin due to very small changes in the interfractionation position revealed dramatic differences in the maximum dose to these critical organs. The cavity's volume manifested changes between fractions as well as the distances to the two critical organs. Therefore the maximum dose manifested variance between 10 and 32 in both of the sites Conclusions: This study demonstrates that using CT scan before each treatment will minimize the risk of delivering undesired high doses to the critical organs. This reveals the urgent need of increasing and improving the immobilization methods when treating ABPI with Savi. In 30 of the cases re-planning was necessary between fractions therefore we conclude that in each case the treatment and planning teams must be prepared for re-plan as needed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005872
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The Evolution of Brand Strategy.
- Creator
- Cherniavsky, Vanessa, Jolly, Ishraaj, Graduate College, Smith, Allen E.
- Abstract/Description
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This paper is an exploration of how the definition of an experience has changed over time and the impact this change has had on experiential marketing and branding. In the literature, there are numerous implications as to what this morphing definition means to businesses and how businesses should react in order to stay competitive in a society that is hyper stimulated. Research into what defines an experience and the impact this definition has on business is vital because in order for...
Show moreThis paper is an exploration of how the definition of an experience has changed over time and the impact this change has had on experiential marketing and branding. In the literature, there are numerous implications as to what this morphing definition means to businesses and how businesses should react in order to stay competitive in a society that is hyper stimulated. Research into what defines an experience and the impact this definition has on business is vital because in order for businesses to offer innovative experiences they need to understand what an experience is and the role it plays in the success of their organization. Furthermore, a deep understanding of what comprises an experience and how to manipulate those elements to create a unique and targeted experience are tools a company could use to reinvent itself, change its brand meaning, and rewrite its marketing strategy.
The evolution of marketing and branding has taken an exponential leap since technology changed the way society functions. A wide breadth of literature is dedicated to virtual experiences and internet based branding and marketing advances. In addition to virtual experiences, this paper will also explore the success of experience based brands such as Disney and Lexus. The implications of this success have gone beyond name brands and into niche markets. Finally, the paper will explore the implications these findings have for managers. Our hypothesis is that marketing and delivering a complete experience is more vital in the modern business world than it used to be.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005142
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Use Of Molecular Techniques To Understand The Spatial And Temporal Features Of The Oceanic Stage In Hawksbill Sea Turtles, Eretmochelys Imbricata; A Thesis Proposal.
- Creator
- Coppenrath, Christina, Salmon, Michael, Graduate College
- Abstract/Description
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For highly migratory species, it is important to understand what habitats are used and what requirements are essential for growth and development. These migrations often span different political and regulatory boundaries, complicating conservation strategies. The hatchlings and post-hatchlings of most sea turtle species migrate to oceanic habitats where they remain for several years before returning to shallow developmental habitats. For critically endangered hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys...
Show moreFor highly migratory species, it is important to understand what habitats are used and what requirements are essential for growth and development. These migrations often span different political and regulatory boundaries, complicating conservation strategies. The hatchlings and post-hatchlings of most sea turtle species migrate to oceanic habitats where they remain for several years before returning to shallow developmental habitats. For critically endangered hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata, most research has concentrated on nesting ecology and very little is known about the posthatchling migration. Many sea turtles then spend years in different foraging habitats before reaching sexual maturity, and such foraging grounds typically represent a mixed stock of turtles from different nesting beaches. Mitochondrial DNA analysis can be used to estimate genetic stock structure of mixedstock foraging populations for sea turtles, and the duration of the post-hatchling oceanic stage can be estimated using stable isotope analysis and satellite telemetry. Our objectives are to determine the duration of the post-hatchling oceanic stage of development, to determine if the turtles sampled in a particular foraging habitat represent a biased or unbiased assortment of matrilineages, and to infer potential migratory pathways by investigating ocean currents between nesting beaches and the foraging site. Here we discuss our methods, to determine the duration of the post-hatchling oceanic stage and stock structure for immature hawksbills at a developmental foraging ground.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005873
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Effects of the Relationship Enhancement® Program on Social Skills, Empathy and Social Support for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
- Creator
- Cunningham, Ali, Graduate College
- Abstract/Description
-
An important area of research is emerging for adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders ASD with respect to the challenges they face in their social relationships. Social relationships include those that are romantic in nature such as dating, cohabitation and marriage. Researchers suggest that engaging in a healthy and happy romantic relationship has many physical and mental health benefits that contribute to improved quality of life. This study used a quasi-experimental group design to...
Show moreAn important area of research is emerging for adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders ASD with respect to the challenges they face in their social relationships. Social relationships include those that are romantic in nature such as dating, cohabitation and marriage. Researchers suggest that engaging in a healthy and happy romantic relationship has many physical and mental health benefits that contribute to improved quality of life. This study used a quasi-experimental group design to explore the effects of psychoeducation for adults with ASD. Study participants were assigned to one of two group conditions. One group received the Relationship Enhancement®RE program and the other received RE with supplements targeting specific social skills. Social skills, empathy and social support were measured pre and post intervention for participants both within and between groups.
Significant differences were found in the assessment of participants in both groups, as measured by t-tests and effect sizes in the variables of social skills t37-2.28-2.72, p.028-.029, η2.122 and empathy t37-2.31, p.027, η2.123. These differences indicate that all participants, in both groups improved in social skills and empathy from pre to post treatment. No significant differences were found among all group participants for the variable of social support. There were no significant differences between groups for the three variables measured p0.05. Overall, these results provide support for the use of RE and the targeted supplements to increase social skills and empathy among adults with ASD who are interested in engaging in romantic relationships.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005143
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Environmental Restoration and Water Circulation Improvement of the Guachinanga Channel, San Jose Lagoon, PR.
- Creator
- Dougherty, Rebecca R., Hague, Erin, Graduate College
- Abstract/Description
-
Urbanization has increased over the last 50+ years around the San José Lagoon, San Juan, Puerto Rico significantly degrading the Lagoon’s ecosystem. The nutrient and sediment loading has caused excessive vegetative growth along the Caño Martín Peña and Guachinanga Channel due to encroachment of infrastructure along the banks of the eastern portion of the river combined with increased nutrient and sediment loading from untreated sewage and stormwater runoff. This has resulted in decreased...
Show moreUrbanization has increased over the last 50+ years around the San José Lagoon, San Juan, Puerto Rico significantly degrading the Lagoon’s ecosystem. The nutrient and sediment loading has caused excessive vegetative growth along the Caño Martín Peña and Guachinanga Channel due to encroachment of infrastructure along the banks of the eastern portion of the river combined with increased nutrient and sediment loading from untreated sewage and stormwater runoff. This has resulted in decreased tidal exchange between San Juan Bay and San José Lagoon, and around Guachinanga Islet. The restoration plan seeks to 1) restore the habitat on Guachinanga Islet by removing a vegetated land bridge used by non-native species that access the Islet and potentially impact native populations, and 2) improve water quality by removing sediment, debris and vegetation to allow flushing in the Guachinanga Channel, around the Islet and adjacent Caño Martín Peña 3) dispose of the comprised dredged resources in a beneficial use manner. An innovative dredge process seeks to address the logistical challenges of the project area. The resulting beneficial use skate and recreational park seeks partnering opportunities of the various social, ecological and health initiatives of the adjacent Caño Martín Peña restoration plan.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005144
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Comparative survey of hemoparasites in two south Florida gopher tortoise populations.
- Creator
- Elhassani, Dana, Caruso, Joseph P., Graduate College, Frazier, Evelyn
- Abstract/Description
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The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a threatened keystone species of the Southeastern United States. Increasing urban encroachment and tortoise translocation increases the risk of disease transmission. Prior work at Florida Atlantic University suggested resident gopher tortoises had high tick burdens. To investigate ticks as potential disease vectors, two sites were examined. The Florida Atlantic University Preserve (FAUP); managed by mowing and herbicides and Jonathan Dickinson...
Show moreThe gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a threatened keystone species of the Southeastern United States. Increasing urban encroachment and tortoise translocation increases the risk of disease transmission. Prior work at Florida Atlantic University suggested resident gopher tortoises had high tick burdens. To investigate ticks as potential disease vectors, two sites were examined. The Florida Atlantic University Preserve (FAUP); managed by mowing and herbicides and Jonathan Dickinson State Park (JDSP); managed by fire. We hypothesized that gopher tortoises in the FAUP will be infected by heavier hemoparasite loads, potentially causing anemia, when compared to JDSP. To detect hemoparasites, blood was collected from tortoises at FAUP and JDSP. Blood smears revealed intracellular parasites and inclusions at both sites. Packed cell volumes were done to assess whether tortoises were anemic; results found tortoises were not anemic during that sampling period. This study will provide baseline data for blood-borne infections in two south Florida gopher tortoise populations.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005145
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Covering Small Alternating Groups with Proper Subgroups.
- Creator
- Epstein, Michael, Kappe, Luise-Charlotte, Magliveras, Spyros S., Graduate College, Popova, Daniela
- Abstract/Description
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Any group with a finite noncyclic homomorphic image is a finite union of proper subgroups. Given such a group G, we define the covering number of G to be the least positive integer m such that G is the union of m proper subgroups. We present recent results on the determination of the covering numbers of the alternating groups on nine and eleven letters.
- Date Issued
- 2015
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005874
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Sparse Representation Classification of Dolphin Whistles Using Gabor Wavelets.
- Creator
- Esfahanian, Mahdi, Zhuang, Hanqi, Graduate College, Erdol, Nurgun
- Abstract/Description
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This research presents a novel approach to categorize dolphin whistles into various types. Most accurate methods to identify dolphin whistles are tedious and not robust, especially in the presence of ocean noise. One of the biggest challenges of dolphin whistle extraction is the coexistence of short-time duration wide-band echo clicks with the whistles. In this research, a subspace of select orientation parameters of the 2D Gabor wavelet frames is utilized to enhance or suppress signals by...
Show moreThis research presents a novel approach to categorize dolphin whistles into various types. Most accurate methods to identify dolphin whistles are tedious and not robust, especially in the presence of ocean noise. One of the biggest challenges of dolphin whistle extraction is the coexistence of short-time duration wide-band echo clicks with the whistles. In this research, a subspace of select orientation parameters of the 2D Gabor wavelet frames is utilized to enhance or suppress signals by their orientation. The result is a Gabor image that contains a noise free grayscale representation of the fundamental dolphin whistle which is resampled and fed into the Sparse Representation Classifier. The classifier uses the l1 norm to select a match. Experimental studies conducted demonstrate: a a robust technique based on the Gabor wavelet filters in extracting reliable call patterns, and b the superior performance of Sparse Representation Classifier for identifying dolphin whistles by their call type.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005146
- Format
- Document (PDF)