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- Title
- ANALYSIS OF CRYPTOGRAPHIC EFFICIENCY: ELLIPTIC CURVE SCALAR MULTIPLICATION AND CONSTANT-TIME POLYNOMIAL INVERSION IN POST-QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY.
- Creator
- Dutta, Abhraneel, Persichetti, Edoardo, Karabina, Koray, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Mathematical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
-
An efficient scalar multiplication algorithm is vital for elliptic curve cryptosystems. The first part of this dissertation focuses on a scalar multiplication algorithm based on scalar recodings resistant to timing attacks. The algorithm utilizes two recoding methods: Recode, which generalizes the non-zero signed all-bit set recoding, and Align, which generalizes the sign aligned columns recoding. For an ℓ-bit scalar split into d subscalars, our algorithm has a computational cost of ⌈⌈ℓ logk...
Show moreAn efficient scalar multiplication algorithm is vital for elliptic curve cryptosystems. The first part of this dissertation focuses on a scalar multiplication algorithm based on scalar recodings resistant to timing attacks. The algorithm utilizes two recoding methods: Recode, which generalizes the non-zero signed all-bit set recoding, and Align, which generalizes the sign aligned columns recoding. For an ℓ-bit scalar split into d subscalars, our algorithm has a computational cost of ⌈⌈ℓ logk(2)⌉/d⌉ point additions and k-scalar multiplications and a storage cost of kd−1(k − 1) – 1 points on E. The “split and comb” method further optimizes computational and storage complexity. We find the best setting to be with a fixed base point on a Twisted Edwards curve using a mix of projective and extended coordinates, with k = 2 generally offering the best performance. However, k = 3 may be better in certain applications. The second part of this dissertation is dedicated to constant-time polynomial inversion algorithms in Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). The computation of the inverse of a polynomial over a quotient ring or finite field is crucial for key generation in post-quantum cryptosystems like NTRU, BIKE, and LEDACrypt. Efficient algorithms must run in constant time to prevent side-channel attacks. We examine constant-time algorithms based on Fermat’s Little Theorem and the Extended GCD Algorithm, providing detailed time complexity analysis. We find that the constant-time Extended GCD inversion algorithm is more efficient, performing fewer field multiplications. Additionally, we explore other exponentiation algorithms similar to the Itoh-Tsuji inversion method, which optimizes polynomial multiplications in the BIKE/LEDACrypt setup. Recent results on hardware implementations are also discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014492
- Subject Headings
- Cryptography, Curves, Elliptic, Polynomials
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- EXPLORING TEACHERS’ PERCEPTIONS OF THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL GAME-BASED LEARNING ON STUDENT ENGAGEMENT, MOTIVATION, AND LEARNING OUTCOMES IN K-12 SOCIAL STUDIES.
- Creator
- Brown, Danielle R., Powers, Jillian, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry, College of Education
- Abstract/Description
-
This systematic literature review investigates K-12 social studies educators' perspectives on digital game-based learning (DGBL) from 2015 to 2024, focusing on its impact on student engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes. Using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) reflexive thematic analysis, data from 10 studies were synthesized. Four main themes emerged regarding engagement and motivation, and three concerning learning outcomes. Findings indicate that while teachers recognize DGBL's potential...
Show moreThis systematic literature review investigates K-12 social studies educators' perspectives on digital game-based learning (DGBL) from 2015 to 2024, focusing on its impact on student engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes. Using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) reflexive thematic analysis, data from 10 studies were synthesized. Four main themes emerged regarding engagement and motivation, and three concerning learning outcomes. Findings indicate that while teachers recognize DGBL's potential benefits, they prioritize meeting learning objectives over new instructional strategies due to teaching demands and limited suitable digital games. Barriers such as time constraints and resource limitations hinder broader DGBL implementation. Overcoming these challenges requires collaboration among educators, administrators, and policymakers to leverage DGBL in K-12 social studies education fully.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014449
- Subject Headings
- Educational technology, Teachers--Training of, Instructional systems, Social Sciences--education
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- AI COMPUTATION OF L1-NORM-ERROR PRINCIPAL COMPONENTS WITH APPLICATIONS TO TRAINING DATASET CURATION AND DETECTION OF CHANGE.
- Creator
- Varma, Kavita, Pados, Dimitris, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Computer and Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Abstract/Description
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The aim of this dissertation is to achieve a thorough understanding and develop an algorithmic framework for a crucial aspect of autonomous and artificial intelligence (AI) systems: Data Analysis. In the current era of AI and machine learning (ML), ”data” holds paramount importance. For effective learning tasks, it is essential to ensure that the training dataset is accurate and comprehensive. Additionally, during system operation, it is vital to identify and address faulty data to prevent...
Show moreThe aim of this dissertation is to achieve a thorough understanding and develop an algorithmic framework for a crucial aspect of autonomous and artificial intelligence (AI) systems: Data Analysis. In the current era of AI and machine learning (ML), ”data” holds paramount importance. For effective learning tasks, it is essential to ensure that the training dataset is accurate and comprehensive. Additionally, during system operation, it is vital to identify and address faulty data to prevent potentially catastrophic system failures. Our research in data analysis focuses on creating new mathematical theories and algorithms for outlier-resistant matrix decomposition using L1-norm principal component analysis (PCA). L1-norm PCA has demonstrated robustness against irregular data points and will be pivotal for future AI learning and autonomous system operations. This dissertation presents a comprehensive exploration of L1-norm techniques and their diverse applications. A summary of our contributions in this manuscript follows: Chapter 1 establishes the foundational mathematical notation and linear algebra concepts critical for the subsequent discussions, along with a review of the complexities of the current state-of-the-art in L1-norm matrix decomposition algorithms. In Chapter 2, we address the L1-norm error decomposition problem by introducing a novel method called ”Individual L1-norm-error Principal Component Computation by 3-layer Perceptron” (Perceptron L1 error). Extensive studies demonstrate the efficiency of this greedy L1-norm PC calculator.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014460
- Subject Headings
- Artificial intelligence, Machine learning, Neural networks (Computer science), Data Analysis
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF BEACH NOURISHMENT PROJECTS CONSTRUCTED WITH BENEFICIAL USE OF DREDGE MATERIAL IN PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLORIDA.
- Creator
- Inman, Camryn Leigh, Briggs, Tiffany Roberts, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Environmental Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
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Sourcing sediment from adjacent inlets for placement on eroded downdrift beaches is an increasingly common practice, as an inlet sources’ proximity to a placement site reduces the transportation cost of a project and is considered a beneficial use of the dredge material (BUDM). This project aimed to compare two nourishment projects using adjacent inlet sediment sources for changes in water quality, morphology, and sedimentology at two geographically similar locations in southeast Florida. In...
Show moreSourcing sediment from adjacent inlets for placement on eroded downdrift beaches is an increasingly common practice, as an inlet sources’ proximity to a placement site reduces the transportation cost of a project and is considered a beneficial use of the dredge material (BUDM). This project aimed to compare two nourishment projects using adjacent inlet sediment sources for changes in water quality, morphology, and sedimentology at two geographically similar locations in southeast Florida. In 2023, Jupiter Beach Park (Jupiter, FL) and South Inlet Park Beach (Boca Raton, FL) were nourished using sediment from the adjacent inlet system. Jupiter was nourished with sediment from the inlet’s sand trap and Boca Raton was nourished with sediment from the ebb shoal. Suspended sediment concentration (SSC) in the water column is closely associated with other properties of water including temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen. A sudden increase in suspended sediment in nearshore water can be triggered by anthropogenic activity, like nourishment, as well as natural occurrences, like storms. Sampling began prior to the initiation of nourishment (February) and continued throughout hurricane season (May – November). Sediment samples were analyzed for moment method statistics (i.e., mean, standard deviation/sorting) at half-phi intervals above 63μm. Fine sediment (<63μm) was dried and weighed. Surface and bottom water samples were collected and measured for SSC, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and salinity to analyze changes in response to nourishment.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014477
- Subject Headings
- Beach nourishment, Sediments (Geology), Palm Beach County (Fla.), Coastal zone management
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Evaluating the Impact of LiDAR DEM Uncertainties on Inundation Modeling in Coastal Sub-Watersheds: An Exploration Via Deterministic and Probabilistic Approaches.
- Creator
- Thapa, Madan Chhetri, Zhang, Caiyun, Su, Hongbo, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Geosciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
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This study examines the impact of uncertainty associated with Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) derived Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) on flood risk mapping in the North Biscayne Bay sub-watershed. A comparison of flood extent and generation of the probability of flooding was carried out using the bathtub and probabilistic approaches respectively. The water level was computed separately for original and refined DEM using Cascade 2001 hydrological model. Using land cover based corrected...
Show moreThis study examines the impact of uncertainty associated with Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) derived Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) on flood risk mapping in the North Biscayne Bay sub-watershed. A comparison of flood extent and generation of the probability of flooding was carried out using the bathtub and probabilistic approaches respectively. The water level was computed separately for original and refined DEM using Cascade 2001 hydrological model. Using land cover based corrected DEMs reveals a 12% reduction in flooded areas in contrast to original DEM, considering uncertainties associated with land cover. Probabilistic flood modeling via Gaussian Geostatistical Simulation accounts for DEM uncertainty, yielding nuanced probability flood risk maps (0-100%). Findings emphasize DEM refinement before conducting flood mapping to address uncertainties. Future research should explore other mediums of correction incorporating effects of point density of LiDAR, methods of DEM generation, use of diverse scenarios, and kriging techniques for flood modeling and mapping while using LiDAR derived DEM.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014476
- Subject Headings
- Biscayne Bay (Fla.), Lidar, Digital elevation models
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- THE ROLE OF ENDOTHELIAL C-MYC IN CARDIAC DYSFUNCTION.
- Creator
- Rahbar, Homan, Rodrigues, Claudia, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine
- Abstract/Description
-
Cardiovascular disease is a broad term that encompasses a variety of disorders in which the heart and its associated blood vessels lose the capacity to deliver blood efficiently and effectively throughout the body. Cardiac endothelial cells play a vital role in maintaining the homeostatic balance of cardiac physiology. Research into c-Myc, a master regulator involved in the transcription of a large set of genes that regulate inflammation, has been the focus of new therapeutics aimed at...
Show moreCardiovascular disease is a broad term that encompasses a variety of disorders in which the heart and its associated blood vessels lose the capacity to deliver blood efficiently and effectively throughout the body. Cardiac endothelial cells play a vital role in maintaining the homeostatic balance of cardiac physiology. Research into c-Myc, a master regulator involved in the transcription of a large set of genes that regulate inflammation, has been the focus of new therapeutics aimed at treating or lessening the deleterious effects of cardiovascular disease. This project serves to explore how endothelial loss of c-Myc impacts cardiac function under normal and stress conditions, using ultrasound echocardiography image analysis to determine the key differences between all models.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014488
- Subject Headings
- Cardiovascular Diseases, Transcription factors, Endothelial Cells, Echocardiography
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- THE SEERESS’S CULTURAL MEMORY: RECENTERING THE VÖLVA FIGURE IN CONTEMPORARY ADAPTATIONS OF NORSE MYTHOLOGY.
- Creator
- Xirinachs, Maiya R., Thomas, Carla María, Florida Atlantic University, Department of English, Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters
- Abstract/Description
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This thesis examines the völur, arguing that these mythic figures actually encompass a broader range of Nordic women than are typically considered. They are magically empowered, usually through their association with and proximity to prophecy and divinity, and are thus tasked with ensuring cultural memory is preserved in much the same way the speaker of “The Seeress’s Prophecy” does. The examination follows an analysis of various Giantesses from the second era of the God of War video games...
Show moreThis thesis examines the völur, arguing that these mythic figures actually encompass a broader range of Nordic women than are typically considered. They are magically empowered, usually through their association with and proximity to prophecy and divinity, and are thus tasked with ensuring cultural memory is preserved in much the same way the speaker of “The Seeress’s Prophecy” does. The examination follows an analysis of various Giantesses from the second era of the God of War video games series, an adaptation of Angrboda from The Witch’s Heart by Genevieve Gornichec, and Freydís Eiríksdóttir from Vikings: Valhalla. Each of these women prove to be a völva figure in their own unique ways, and thus carry with them the cultural memory as a form of preservation in the face of apocalypses.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014494
- Subject Headings
- Mythology, Norse, Women's studies, Collective memory
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- SPONTANEOUS HYDROGEN GENERATION WITH SILICON NANOPARTICLES AND WATER.
- Creator
- Axelrod, Kevin Eric, Kim, Myeongsub, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Ocean and Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Abstract/Description
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Over the past decade, hydrogen gas generation has been a critical component toward clean energy due to its high specific energy content. Generating hydrogen gas from water is crucial for future applications, including space transportation. Recent studies show promising results using silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) for spontaneous hydrogen generation, but most methods require external energy like high temperature or pressure. In this work, we investigated hydrogen production from SiNPs without...
Show moreOver the past decade, hydrogen gas generation has been a critical component toward clean energy due to its high specific energy content. Generating hydrogen gas from water is crucial for future applications, including space transportation. Recent studies show promising results using silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) for spontaneous hydrogen generation, but most methods require external energy like high temperature or pressure. In this work, we investigated hydrogen production from SiNPs without external energy by leveraging high pH water using sodium hydroxide and optimizing the process with a microfluidic approach. When comparing the physical dispersion methods using the 0.1 mg/mL case, ultrasonic bath produced more hydrogen than magnetic stirrer. In this thesis, 0.01% dextran with pure SiNPs at concentrations of 0.1 mg/mL, 0.2 mg/mL, and 0.3 mg/mL was analyzed. The highest concentration with dextran generated at least 40% less hydrogen than silicon alone, thus dextran did not increase hydrogen gas.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014480
- Subject Headings
- Hydrogen, Hydrogen as fuel, Silicon, Nanoparticles
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Operational Association of New Institutionalism by Semiotic Comparison of Organizational Abbreviated Communications Through Natural Language Processing.
- Creator
- Trautman, Benjamin E., Sementelli, Arthur, Florida Atlantic University, School of Public Administration, Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters
- Abstract/Description
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The link between organizational theory and its application in practice is explored in this research through the lens of Peircian semiotics. An investigation is conducted of how organizations convey their culture through mission and vision statements and the reflection of these statements within New Institutionalism. Through the use of a novel computational model that merges quantitative analysis with traditional qualitative methods, this study evaluates the relevance and effectiveness of...
Show moreThe link between organizational theory and its application in practice is explored in this research through the lens of Peircian semiotics. An investigation is conducted of how organizations convey their culture through mission and vision statements and the reflection of these statements within New Institutionalism. Through the use of a novel computational model that merges quantitative analysis with traditional qualitative methods, this study evaluates the relevance and effectiveness of institutional theories. The three main schools of New Institutionalism—rational choice, historical, and sociological institutionalism —are examined to determine how well municipal mission and vision statements align with the theories' principles. The analysis interprets organizational communications identifying similarities or differences between theoretical concepts and the expressions of found organizational culture. The findings produced by the analyses offer insights into the relationship between theory and practice. It highlights the challenges in interpreting the intended meanings behind organizational communications, as well as, the practical utility of theoretical models for organizational behavior. This study contributes to the organizational theory library by introducing a new methodological approach to examine and compare institutional theories and the communicative strategies.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014448
- Subject Headings
- Natural language processing, New institutionalism (Social sciences), Semiotics, Public administration
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- PANDEMIC PERSPECTIVES: THE INFLUENCE OF DISASTER EXPERIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY USE OVER THE LIFE COURSE ON COVID-19 PERCEPTION AND RESPONSE AMONG OLDER ADULTS.
- Creator
- Kessel, Jordanne, Backstrom, Laura, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Sociology, Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters
- Abstract/Description
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No group was more physically vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic than older adults. However, differing life histories and structural realities make for widely varying pandemic experiences. Using a life course approach, this study situates the COVID-19 pandemic and use of communication tools into context of older adults’ life experience with disasters and technology. Merging the scholarly fields of disaster sociology and aging studies, the purpose of this research is to find how life course...
Show moreNo group was more physically vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic than older adults. However, differing life histories and structural realities make for widely varying pandemic experiences. Using a life course approach, this study situates the COVID-19 pandemic and use of communication tools into context of older adults’ life experience with disasters and technology. Merging the scholarly fields of disaster sociology and aging studies, the purpose of this research is to find how life course experience and technology use impacted older adults’ perception of, and response to, COVID-19. Accordingly, I ask how does previous disaster experience and technology usage influence older adults’ coping regarding aging and crisis? Using 29 semi-structured interviews and two focus groups with older adults, I find that the political economic context in which a person experiences disaster has reverberations decades later. This can trigger a process of cumulative advantage, and that men and women have different access points to that process dependent on that context. Moreover, older adults make crisis-based decisions anchored in their current circumstances, not consciously in response to prior experience. In addition, early experience with technology, especially through work, helps to establish a solid foundation for resilience both in terms of resources and adaptation. I found the participants in this study to be remarkably resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic as a result of either earlier disaster experience, opportunities through work and relationships, and their ability to technologically adapt.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014465
- Subject Headings
- Aging, Technology, Disasters, Sociology
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- UNLOCKING THE MYSTERY OF SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT: THE CENTRALITY OF LEARNING FOR EFFECTIVE PRINCIPAL SUPERVISORS.
- Creator
- Green, Vivian Morris, Reyes-Guerra, Daniel, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
- Abstract/Description
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The role of principal supervisors has changed significantly, moving away from a focus on compliance and towards a greater emphasis on nurturing principals' instructional leadership skills. As a result of this evolution, there is now an increased presence of supervisors in schools, but there are no clear guidelines for their activities. This study aims to fill this gap by developing a theory that explains how principal supervisors can effectively support principals in their roles. The insights...
Show moreThe role of principal supervisors has changed significantly, moving away from a focus on compliance and towards a greater emphasis on nurturing principals' instructional leadership skills. As a result of this evolution, there is now an increased presence of supervisors in schools, but there are no clear guidelines for their activities. This study aims to fill this gap by developing a theory that explains how principal supervisors can effectively support principals in their roles. The insights gained from this study will have significant implications for the future training and professional development of principal supervisors, which aims to improve the effectiveness of principal leadership and, in turn, enhance student outcomes. The study seeks to answer the key research question: "How do principal supervisors and their principals perceive how principal supervisors provide effective support?" Using a qualitative approach and grounded theory design, the study collected data through 15 semi-structured interviews involving three principal supervisors and 12 principals who had worked together for at least three years. The resulting grounded theory outlines a comprehensive framework that explains how principal supervisors can offer impactful support to principals.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014482
- Subject Headings
- School principals, Educational leadership, Educational administration, School management and organization
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Surveying Antibiotic Resistance of Gram-Negative Bacteria Isolated from Wild-Caught and Rehabilitated Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) and Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta) of Florida.
- Creator
- Cortes, Christina M., Milton, Sarah L., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Marine Science and Oceanography, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
-
Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern due to the improper use of antibiotics. Not only is antibiotic resistance increasingly occurring in human populations, but it appears to be spreading in wildlife populations too due to drug overuse and misuse in medicine, farming, and industrial settings, and the subsequent release into watersheds. This project examined the prevalence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in the hindgut microbiome of green (Chelonia mydas) (n=60) and loggerhead (Caretta...
Show moreAntibiotic resistance is a growing concern due to the improper use of antibiotics. Not only is antibiotic resistance increasingly occurring in human populations, but it appears to be spreading in wildlife populations too due to drug overuse and misuse in medicine, farming, and industrial settings, and the subsequent release into watersheds. This project examined the prevalence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in the hindgut microbiome of green (Chelonia mydas) (n=60) and loggerhead (Caretta caretta) (n=57) sea turtles. Hindgut swabs were cultured for gram negative bacteria and exposed to 6 antibiotics. 83.3% of samples were resistant or intermediately resistant to at least one antibiotic, and 27.7% of samples were resistant or intermediately resistant to three antibiotics. This study provides more information regarding the relationship between turtle characteristics and the presence of antibiotic resistance in the hindgut of Florida sea turtles, as well as examine the types of bacteria found in the hindgut.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014489
- Subject Headings
- Green sea turtles, Loggerhead sea turtles, Sea turtles--Florida, Drug Resistance, Bacterial
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- EVALUATION OF INFLUENCES OF THE EL NIÑO-SOUTHERN OSCILLATION (ENSO) EVENTS ON CHANGES IN TEMPERATURE EXTREMES AND RESIDENTIAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN SOUTH FLORIDA.
- Creator
- Thakker, Kuntal S., Teegavarapu, Ramesh S. V., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Abstract/Description
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El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) occurrences have a well-established impact on regional hydroclimatic variability and alterations in crucial climatic factors such as temperature and precipitation. The impact of ENSO on temperature extremes can cause fluctuations in energy consumption, leading to the need for energy utilities to implement more effective management measures. This study aims to evaluate the potential impacts of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events on local temperature...
Show moreEl Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) occurrences have a well-established impact on regional hydroclimatic variability and alterations in crucial climatic factors such as temperature and precipitation. The impact of ENSO on temperature extremes can cause fluctuations in energy consumption, leading to the need for energy utilities to implement more effective management measures. This study aims to evaluate the potential impacts of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events on local temperature patterns & extremes and residential energy usage in South Florida. The region of focus consists of three Counties: Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach. The impact of ENSO occurrences on temperature is assessed by analyzing long-term monthly average, minimum, and maximum temperature data from numerous weather stations in these counties, spanning from 1961 to 2018. The study analyzes variations of monthly electricity usage data acquired from a local power utility company (e.g., Florida Power & Light) and temperature data from 2001 to 2018. Temporal frames that align with the three phases of ENSO (namely warm, cool, and neutral) are employed to assess variations in temperature and energy consumption. Nonparametric hypothesis tests are employed to validate statistically significant variations in temperature and residential energy consumption across the stages of ENSO. This study aims to analyze the potential regional and temporal impacts of ENSO episodes on temperature and residential energy consumption in South Florida. Initial findings indicate that the non-uniform distribution of temperature, affected by El Niño and La Niña occurrences, impacts the amount of energy consumed by households in South Florida.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014493
- Subject Headings
- Energy consumption, Florida, South, Climate change, El Niño Current, La Niña Current
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- EXAMINING DIGITAL POLICY TOOL CHOICE AND NETWORK STRUCTURES: A DISCOURSE NETWORK ANALYSIS OF THE FIRST STEP ACT.
- Creator
- Lungu, Maria, Sapat, Alka, Florida Atlantic University, School of Public Administration, Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters
- Abstract/Description
-
Policy formation involves an interplay of decision-making processes that shape all policy process stages. A critical aspect of the design process is selecting policy tools to align with policy goals. The First Step Act (FSA) (2018) aims to reduce recidivism and reform sentencing through a robust policy tool portfolio. However, questions persist about how policy tools are selected. This dissertation evaluates the policy design, tool choices, and collaborative networks associated with these...
Show morePolicy formation involves an interplay of decision-making processes that shape all policy process stages. A critical aspect of the design process is selecting policy tools to align with policy goals. The First Step Act (FSA) (2018) aims to reduce recidivism and reform sentencing through a robust policy tool portfolio. However, questions persist about how policy tools are selected. This dissertation evaluates the policy design, tool choices, and collaborative networks associated with these choices. Grounded in the social construction framework and using content analysis and discourse network analysis (DNA), this dissertation examines how policymakers select policy tools to achieve functionality. Research question one explores the complementarity of the FSA’s policy tool portfolio, and results demonstrate alignment between policy goals and corresponding policy tools. Research question two examines how social constructions of target populations and political affiliations influence policy tool choices; hypothesis one reveals that liberal policymakers align with those with similar political affiliations. Results from hypothesis two indicate liberal policymakers adopt a rehabilitation orientation tool approach, viewing target populations as investments and deserving of support structures. The findings also highlight limited interaction with government agency officials, reflecting a need to incorporate more administrative voices into legislative discourse.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014466
- Subject Headings
- Public policy, Decision making, Public administration
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- MACHINE LEARNING TO PREDICT BUSINESS SUCCESS: THEORIES, FEATURES, AND MODELS.
- Creator
- Gangwani, Divya, Zhu, Xingquan, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Computer and Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Abstract/Description
-
Businesses are the driving force behind economic systems and are the lifeline of the community as they help in the prosperity and growth of the nation. Hence it is important for the business to succeed in the market. The business’s success provides economic stability and sustainability that helps preserve resources for future generations. The success of a business is not only important to the owners but is also critical to the regional/domestic economic system, or even the global economy....
Show moreBusinesses are the driving force behind economic systems and are the lifeline of the community as they help in the prosperity and growth of the nation. Hence it is important for the business to succeed in the market. The business’s success provides economic stability and sustainability that helps preserve resources for future generations. The success of a business is not only important to the owners but is also critical to the regional/domestic economic system, or even the global economy. Recent years have witnessed many new emerging businesses with tremendous success, such as Google, Apple, Facebook etc.. Yet, millions of businesses also fail or fade out within a rather short period of time. Finding patterns/factors connected to the business rise and fall remains a long-lasting question that puzzles many economists, entrepreneurs, and government officials. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence, especially machine learning, has lent researchers the powers to use data to model and predict business success. However, due to the data-driven nature of all machine learning methods, existing approaches are rather domain-driven and ad-hoc in their design and validations, particularly in the field of business prediction. The main challenge of business success prediction is twofold: (1) Identifying variables for defining business success; (2) Feature selection and feature engineering based on three main categories Investment, Business, and Market, each of which is focused on modeling a business from a particular perspective, such as sales, management, innovation etc.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014506
- Subject Headings
- Machine learning, Business enterprises, Business education
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- MAKING AND BREAKING THE GOVERNOR: HOW THE STRONG GOVERNOR SURVIVED RECONSTRUCTION IN FLORIDA BUT NOT IN TEXAS.
- Creator
- Prazan, Phil, Engle, Stephen, Florida Atlantic University, Department of History, Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters
- Abstract/Description
-
When former Confederates and their conservative allies retook power in the South after Reconstruction, they rewrote state constitutions. Lawmakers in the individual states gave their governors different powers based on their state’s experience throughout Reconstruction and Redemption. The Texas Constitution of 1876 created a weak governor, producing a state governed by elected county leaders and court judges. The Florida Constitution of 1885 on the other hand, kept a strong executive but...
Show moreWhen former Confederates and their conservative allies retook power in the South after Reconstruction, they rewrote state constitutions. Lawmakers in the individual states gave their governors different powers based on their state’s experience throughout Reconstruction and Redemption. The Texas Constitution of 1876 created a weak governor, producing a state governed by elected county leaders and court judges. The Florida Constitution of 1885 on the other hand, kept a strong executive but placed it underneath the power of a private organization, the Democratic State Executive Committee – the Democratic Party. The state governments - and governors – redeemers designed in the 1870s and 1880s still governed Texas and Florida well into the twenty first century. Reconstruction directly shaped the size and scope of these modern-day state executives.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014507
- Subject Headings
- Governors, Reconstruction (U.S. history, 1865-1877)--Florida, Reconstruction (U.S. history, 1865-1877)--Texas
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- EXPLAINABLE GRAPH LEARNING FOR POWER GRID FAULT DETECTION.
- Creator
- Bosso, Richard George, Tang, Yufei, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Computer and Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Abstract/Description
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Short-circuit faults can cause significant damage to power grid infrastructure, resulting in costly maintenance for utility providers. Rapid identification of fault locations can help mitigate these damages and associated expenses. Recent studies have demonstrated that graph neural network (GNN) models, using phasor data from various points in a power grid, can accurately locate fault events by accounting for the grid’s topology—a feature not typically leveraged by other machine learning...
Show moreShort-circuit faults can cause significant damage to power grid infrastructure, resulting in costly maintenance for utility providers. Rapid identification of fault locations can help mitigate these damages and associated expenses. Recent studies have demonstrated that graph neural network (GNN) models, using phasor data from various points in a power grid, can accurately locate fault events by accounting for the grid’s topology—a feature not typically leveraged by other machine learning methods. However, despite their high performance, GNN models are often viewed as ”black-box” systems, making their decision logic difficult to interpret. This thesis demonstrates that explanation methods can be applied to GNN models to enhance their transparency by clarifying the reasoning behind fault location predictions. By systematically benchmarking several explanation techniques for a GNN model trained for fault location detection, we assess and recommend the most effective methods for elucidating fault detection predictions in power grid systems.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014528
- Subject Headings
- Fault location (Engineering), Neural networks (Computer science)
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Elucidation of a Glial Copper Homeostasis Pathway Regulated by the Caenorhabditis elegans Gene swip-10 with Implications for Systemic Metabolism and Neurodegenerative Disease.
- Creator
- Rodriguez, Peter Jr., Blakely, Randy D., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine
- Abstract/Description
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Using the Caenorhabditis elegans as a model we have employed forward genetic screens to uncover several novel genetic contributors to dopamine (DA) signaling(1). Follow-up characterization of some of these novel contributors have been detailed in published work from our lab(2), while follow-up studies on other pathways are still underway. Moreover, using the powerful Million Mutation Project library, we have uncovered an important link between primary cilium formation and the regulation of...
Show moreUsing the Caenorhabditis elegans as a model we have employed forward genetic screens to uncover several novel genetic contributors to dopamine (DA) signaling(1). Follow-up characterization of some of these novel contributors have been detailed in published work from our lab(2), while follow-up studies on other pathways are still underway. Moreover, using the powerful Million Mutation Project library, we have uncovered an important link between primary cilium formation and the regulation of the DA transporter dat-1(3). The focus of the body of work detailed in this manuscript is on a glial expressed gene, swip-10, uncovered from our original genetic screen(1, 4, 5). Unlike the other pathways uncovered from our genetic screening, swip-10 does not affect DA signaling via DAT-1 regulation, instead, loss of swip-10 produces excess DA signaling in a glutamate-signaling-dependent manner to cause swimming-induced paralysis (Swip)(4) as well as premature DA neuron degeneration(5). Specifically, the primary aim here was to uncover the molecular pathway by which swip-10 supports these phenotypes.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014511
- Subject Headings
- Neurodegenerative Diseases, Glial cells, Caenorhabditis elegans, Copper, Homeostasis
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- AN EXAMINATION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS IN THE FLORIDA COLLEGE SYSTEM AND STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM.
- Creator
- Weber, Jaeson Andrew, Floyd, Deborah, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
- Abstract/Description
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This study addressed gaps in research on understanding the preparedness status of emergency management programs within Florida College System (FCS) and State University System (SUS) institutions. The quantitative assessment involved 21 institutions (51% response rate). A survey instrument was developed from prior studies and measured programmatic factors. These questions explored the current preparedness level regarding emergency management programs within Florida’s FCS and SUS institutions,...
Show moreThis study addressed gaps in research on understanding the preparedness status of emergency management programs within Florida College System (FCS) and State University System (SUS) institutions. The quantitative assessment involved 21 institutions (51% response rate). A survey instrument was developed from prior studies and measured programmatic factors. These questions explored the current preparedness level regarding emergency management programs within Florida’s FCS and SUS institutions, the involvement of stakeholders in these programs, the perceived preparedness to respond to various hazards, the extent of institutional investment in emergency management efforts, and the organizational frameworks characterizing the emergency management departments or units within these institutions. Findings revealed that FCS institutions generally have needs, particularly in exercises and financial resources, suggesting foundational elements are present but highlighting opportunities to advance their preparedness. In contrast, SUS institutions report needs in planning and financial support, emphasizing the necessity of comprehensive and updated emergency strategies and plans and sufficient funding as programs advance. Both systems displayed strong leadership commitment that supported their levels of preparedness.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014512
- Subject Headings
- Florida College System, State University System of Florida, Emergency management
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- AN INVESTIGATION ON PRACTICAL ASPECTS OF POST-QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY.
- Creator
- Karagoz, Emrah, Persichetti, Edoardo, Karabina, Koray, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Mathematical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
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The security of the current public-key cryptographic schemes, based on integer factorization and discrete logarithm problems, is expected to be totally broken with the development of quantum computers utilizing Shor’s algorithm. As a result, The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) initiated the Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) standardization process in 2016, inviting researchers to submit candidate algorithms that are both resistant to quantum attacks and efficient for real...
Show moreThe security of the current public-key cryptographic schemes, based on integer factorization and discrete logarithm problems, is expected to be totally broken with the development of quantum computers utilizing Shor’s algorithm. As a result, The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) initiated the Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) standardization process in 2016, inviting researchers to submit candidate algorithms that are both resistant to quantum attacks and efficient for real world applications. Researchers have since studied various aspects of the candidate algorithms, such as their security against quantum attacks and efficient implementation on different platforms. In this thesis, we investigate the practical aspects of Post-Quantum Cryptography and contribute to several topics. First, we focus on the knapsack problem and its security under classical and quantum attacks. Second, we improve the secure biometric template generation algorithm NTT-Sec, proposing an enhanced version, NTT-Sec-R, and providing an in-depth design and security analysis. Third, we work on optimizing implementations of the post-quantum secure signature scheme LESS and polynomial inversion algorithms for code-based schemes. Finally, we analyze a proposed countermeasure for the exposure model of SIKE, the isogeny-based scheme that is a candidate in NIST’s Round 4.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2024
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014549
- Subject Headings
- Cryptography, Knapsack problem (Mathematics), Computer science
- Format
- Document (PDF)
