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THE DYNAMICS OF ASIAN STEREOTYPES IN ADVERTISEMENTS: A TEXTUAL ANALYSIS OF ADVERTISEMENTS FROM THE 2000, 2010s, AND 2020s DECADES USING FRAMING THEORY
No full textSeveral types of Asian stereotypes have prevailed in the mass media over the past few decades, but advertisements are strongly influential in perpetuating and creating stereotypes. The purpose of this thesis involves examining ads in online print magazines to discover the dynamics of Asian stereotypes in the 21st century. These three recent decades of the media framed advertisements in ways that displayed Asian stereotypes. The method of textual analysis uses framing theory to analyze how ads are framed to display Asian stereotypes. Using the constant comparative method also assisted with comprehending the most prominent framing patterns of Asian stereotypes. The findings suggest that certain Asian stereotypes can be found in different kinds of ads, suggest that magazines focusing on different topics can make more Asian stereotypes emerge, and imply that the dynamics of Asian stereotypes in ads will continue shifting as emerging stereotypes coexist with current ones reappearing throughout future decades
A Two-Dimensional Finite Element Model for Surface Flow Characteristics of the Chequamegon Bay, Lake Superior
No full textThe Chequamegon Bay, a shallow bay on the south shore of Lake Superior, was modeled using 2D shallow water equations in FreeFEM++ with the finite element method to study the surface flow under varying boundary conditions and compare it to previously collected data. The approach did capture the velocity flow of the Bay about 63% of the time and 66% of the time for the direction of the flow. An understanding of how long it takes water in the Bay to exchange with rest of Lake Superior is essential for understanding the continued risk for water quality of the Chequamegon Bay. The surface flow was created by changing boundary conditions every 6 hours using data from a USGS buoy. Pollutants were added to the Bay in different locations. Pollutants stayed in the Bay for 40 to 66 days with the pollutants first reaching the outlet to Lake Superior between 16-22 days depending on where the source of the pollutant was located. Using FreeFEM++ the surface flow of the Chequamegon Bay was modeled using and further research can be done to further understand the deeper circulation of the Bay. FreeFEM++ has numerous examples for simulating 2D models and is developing finite volume methos as well. FreeFEM++ has shown to work well in this situation, modeling surface flow and studying residence time
AN INVESTIGATION ON SEASONAL FUNGAL SPORE COUNTS AND THEIR ADVERSE HEALTH EFFECTS
No full textFungi can grow in both indoor and outdoor environments and may enter a house through open doorways, windows, vents, as well as heating and air conditioning systems. I have used two different techniques to capture and collect fungal samples. I used a Burkard Volumetric Spore Trap to capture the aeroallergens. It was placed on the third-floor roof of the Natural Science Building of West Texas A&M University. I collected the spores on the Sellotape placed on the drum and stained them with 2% safranin and mounted the slide in Gelvatol. I observed the prepared slides using BX-40 Olympus Microscope equipped with a DP-74 digital camera and the CellSens software. I observed the frequent presence of fungal spores like Alternaria alternata, Stachybotrys, Drechslera and ascospores. I also observed plenty of burnt residues, gums and resinous exudates from the plants and various forms of fibers. All these are considered as potential allergens and causal factors for allergic rhinitis and related symptoms. In the second part, I collected spoiled food materials and cheese. I stained the isolated fungal materials after a brief flaming on an alcohol lamp. After staining with Lacto-phenol Cotton Blue stain, I observed the spores and mycelia produced by the fungi using a Leica DM-750 digital microscope equipped with LAS V4.9 software for capturing images. Micrographs were captured, analyzed, and labeled accordingly. I observed Rhizopus stolonifer, Colletotrichum truncatum, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium notatum and several types of spores from Ascomyceteous fungi. Our continued research will include collection of fungal samples from different households, capturing
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images after staining suitably and analyzing them based on their spore morphology using the standard identification keys
The influence of the atmospheric low-pressure core on the ground-based ice-nucleation particle abundance in the North Slope of Alaska: A preliminary report
Get PDFThis is a poster presentation providing a visual representation of the research through text, charts, graphs.Mixed-phase clouds (MPCs), which contain both ice crystals and supercooled liquid droplets, are ubiquitous over the North Slope of Alaska region, and ice-nucleating particles (INPs) in MPCs impact the formation and modulation of MPCs, precipitation, and the solar energy budget. However, the role of MPCs and INPs on Arctic warming is not yet well revealed, which represents a substantial knowledge gap in climate science. As a first step towards filling the gap, in this work, we examine the role of high-latitude pressure core variability on the ground-level INP concentration as a surrogate parameter of ice cloud microphysics. To measure the INP abundance, we employed a Portable Ice Nucleation Experiment (PINE) chamber, which simulates virtual adiabatic expansion cooling in a 10 L aluminum vessel, at Barrow Atmospheric Baseline Observatory (71.32° N, 156.61° W). We will in particular discuss how profound atmospheric dynamics and extreme meteorological conditions introduce INP anomaly. Our outcome, besides the sea-ice albedo effect, is a key first step towards a comprehensive understanding of the mechanism and projection of Arctic warming
IMPROVING TEACHER JOB SATISFACTION: EXAMINING RURAL SCHOOL CLIMATE STRATEGIES
Get PDFPurpose: The purpose of this study is to explore effective strategies that principals in
high-performing rural schools with low teacher turnover rates use to improve teacher job satisfaction. Research Method: A qualitative, multiple case study research design was executed through open-ended interviews with seven rural secondary school principals in Texas. Findings: The findings in this study indicated that rural principals transformed teacher job satisfaction by (a) enhancing teacher autonomy and empowerment, (b) building trustful relationships, (c) acknowledging teacher recognition, and (d) providing leadership support. In addition, this study found barriers that rural school principals face that impede teacher job satisfaction, such as uncontrolled mandates, salary, and class size. Conclusion: Findings suggest that maintaining positive relationships and open communication with teachers, empowering teachers and allowing teacher input and flexibility in the decision-making processes, praising teachers for their hard work, and providing leadership support to teachers are effective school climate strategies that increase teacher job satisfaction in the workplace. Furthermore, this study provides awareness of the common barriers that rural school principals face that impede teacher job satisfaction
Nomadic Navigations
No full textABSTRACT
My thesis explores the idea that people are spiritual beings having a human experience rather than human beings having a spiritual experience. To convey this idea in visual form, I create abstract paintings and drawings, primarily in the style of
Abstract Expressionism. Each of my works utilizes a four-part system of development that consists of a) “universe”, b) “forms”, c) “gestural moments”, and d) “time-threads,” all of which relate to varied aspects of what it means to be human, both individually and collectively as a species. My concepts stem from the writings of Teilhard de Chardin and Joseph Campbell, while my artistic influences include Cave Art, Expressionists, and the Transcendental Painters. My goal is to share my visions and create relevant cross-cultural connections through the nonverbal language of abstract visual art. I also address concepts of time and space in realms beyond the earth plane. I engage with the works authentically as I create them, and then release them after completion, allowing the experience to then belong to the viewer. I’m not trying to convince or persuade my audience into believing or feeling exactly what I do, but rather I am simply sharing my journey with fellow travelers. Though we may experience different circumstances and perceive them differently, we are still united by our spiritual experience as human beings moving through life. My paintings and drawings express the sharing of this common bond
Knowledge and Perceptions of Secondary Students Toward Agricultural Careers and Technologies Upon Completion of an Educational Program
No full textThere are nearly 60,000 annual job opportunities expected for agricultural graduates between 2020 and 2025. However, as the pool of agricultural graduates becomes more urbanized, these positions are expected to become harder to fill. While previous research heavily indicates secondary student perceptions of agricultural careers and the factors behind career choices, there is little research in career education programs for the agricultural industry. The Social Learning Theory of Career Decision Making and Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory were used as theoretical frameworks in designing this study. Selected students participated in an immersive career education experience hosted at West Texas A&M University over three days prior to data collection. The target population for this study consisted of secondary students enrolled in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) courses at high schools in the Texas Panhandle. Targeted students should be entering grades 11 or 12 and come from a non-traditional agricultural background. Due to a lack of applicants in a local area, the population was extended to include secondary students enrolled in AFNR programs in Texas. Eleven participants applied and were accepted to the program, encompassing students from traditional and non-traditional agricultural backgrounds. Data for this mixed-method study was collected via a retrospective pre-post survey questionnaire and phenomenological focus group interviews following the completion of an immersive career education program. The survey included five-point Likert-type scale questions assessing participant knowledge prior to and following program completion. Focus group questions assessed participant knowledge based on previous experiences in agriculture and with agricultural career areas. The researcher found that participant knowledge of agricultural career opportunities was low prior to the program, particularly in animal sciences, plant, soil, and environmental sciences, and knowledge of agricultural technologies. Through quantitative and qualitative data collection, secondary student participation in an immersive career education program was found to improve knowledge in all areas assessed. Participants were found to possess varying levels of knowledge about agricultural career areas, and were most confident in areas they held previous experience. Recommendations were made for additional research on this topic with larger samples and in varying geographical areas to further the opportunity for generalization
Grain Sorghum Production Analysis in U.S. under Declining Ogallala Aquifer, U.S.-China Grain Sorghum Trade, and Food Security Issues in Bangladesh
No full textThis master’s thesis investigates production patterns of grain sorghum in the United States, sorghum trade with China, and the interconnected aspects of food security in Bangladesh through three comprehensive essays.
The first essay concentrates on sorghum production trends in Texas, emphasizing the adaptability and advantages of this cereal crop in regions grappling with environmental challenges. This research analyzes temporal changes in harvested acres, production, and yield patterns by utilizing state-level agricultural survey data from 1975 to 2018 and employing exponential growth and quadratic regression models. In addition, the Cobb-Douglas production function was used for identifying significant factors affecting the production. The study uncovers a consistent downward trajectory in harvested acres, and production quantity. However, it also highlights the potential for improvement by promoting the use of advanced sorghum varieties to bolster future production. The major factors influencing grain sorghum production are identified as harvested area, yield, and domestic consumption. The study indicates that providing financial support and encouraging farmers to adopt modern agricultural technologies will enhance grain sorghum productivity and sustainability.
The second essay delves into the intricacies of sorghum trade between the United States and China. Sorghum, an ancient grain primarily used for livestock feed, holds considerable significance in the agricultural sector of the United States. Through a comprehensive analysis, this research investigates the determinants of sorghum import demand in China from the United States. Factors such as the sorghum-corn price ratio, exchange rate, per capita gross national product (GNP), and livestock production are considered. Taking annual time series data spanning from 1991 to 2020 and utilizing the single equation import demand model, the study identifies the influential role of these factors in shaping China’s sorghum import quantity. Moreover, it presents a forecast indicating a declining trend in Chinese sorghum imports from 2021 to 2030. The research results indicate that sorghum-corn price ratio, exchange rate, and per capita gross national product are significant factors which affect grain sorghum import quantity to China from the United States.
The third essay addresses the urgent issue of food insecurity in Bangladesh, exploring the relationship between food insecurity, economic growth, education, environmental risks, and rice production. By utilizing annual data from 2001 to 2019 and employing an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model, this study establishes a positive relationship between food insecurity and CO2 emissions. Furthermore, it demonstrates that government investment in education improves the lower-class income and lessens the extremity of food insecurity.
However, rice production exhibits a negative association with food insecurity in the long run. To tackle this challenge effectively, the study proposes the implementation of favorable policies such as climate-smart agriculture practices, including conservation agriculture, improved water management, and the use of drought-tolerant or flood-resistant rice varieties. An early warning about weather-related risks will help the farmers.
By connecting these three essays, this thesis sheds light on the multifaceted nature of sorghum production patterns, sorghum trade dynamics, and global food security. The study emphasizes the importance of favorable import policies for U.S. sorghum in the Chinese market. Additionally, the findings underscore the necessity of implementing socioeconomic and environmentally favorable policies to effectively address food insecurity in Bangladesh. These insights provide a comprehensive foundation for further research and policy development, aiming to foster sustainable and secure food systems on a global scale
Polymer-Grafted Nanoparticle and its Application in Drug Delivery
No full textThe observation method was the data collection methodology used.This study explores a novel mechanism for controlling the surface properties of polymer-coated colloids using targeted ("sticky") nanoparticles that attract monomers of certain polymer species. In our study, colloids are coated by two tethered polymer chains with different chemical properties. The attraction of nanoparticles to the monomers of one polymer type causes these polymer chains to contract toward the grafting surface, rendering the other type more exposed to the environment. Thus, the effective surface properties of the colloid are dominated by the intended polymer type. We use coarse-grained molecular dynamics (CGMD) simulation to demonstrate that introducing nanoparticles which interact preferentially with certain types of polymers makes it possible to switch between different surface properties of the colloid. This mechanism can in principle be exploited in drug delivery systems and self-assembly applications