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"Most Catholic Spain": British Evangelical Protestant Views of the Spanish Civil War and its Legacy
No full text"Most Catholic Spain": British Evangelical Protestant Views of the Spanish Civil War and its Legacy presents a case study of The Churchman’s Magazine and Wickliffe Preachers’ Messenger (CMWPM), a publication of the Protestant Truth Society, between 1930 and 1945. The Protestant Truth Society was a British Evangelical organization that was dedicated to opposing the influence of Catholicism within Britain. This thesis explores how the CMWPM discussed Spain during the interwar and World War II period, especially its coverage of the Second Spanish Republic, the Spanish Civil War, and the early Franco Regime. Ultimately, the CMWPM latched on to Spain as a way to articulate its fears surrounding fascism, communism, and Catholicism both within Britain and around the world.HistoryBachelors of Arts (BA
Multi-Decadal Changes In Blue Crab Reproductive Ecology
No full textCommercial fisheries rely on resource managers to develop and enact fishing regulations that prevent stocks from collapsing. In Chesapeake Bay, the goal for blue crab management is to protect the spawning stock to encourage high levels of egg production and thus juvenile recruitment. Management actions to increase female abundance were implemented in the early 2000s, culminating in 2008, in response to an 84% decline in blue crab spawning stock biomass from 1992 to 2000. Blue crabs are the most valuable fishery in Chesapeake Bay and their decline necessitated severe management actions: the historic spawning sanctuary was expanded, the commercial winter dredge fishery was closed, and the exploitation of female crabs was reduced. The status of this fishery is assessed annually using wintertime spawning stock abundance; however, little research has been done to evaluate the reproductive potential or dynamics of females, especially since 2008. Moreover, blue crab reproductive potential is subject to change with shifts in water temperature, exploitation, and individual characteristics. The primary goal of this dissertation was to holistically evaluate blue crab reproductive ecology in Chesapeake Bay over four decades of environmental and management changes, using a combination of novel biomarkers, fishery-independent data from long-term surveys, field sampling, and lab processing. Each chapter is a separate research question; however, all chapters have interrelated conclusions on the reproductive ecology of blue crabs and inform the female-centric management framework in Chesapeake Bay. Chapter 1 compares the proportion of second-year spawners among years with varying exploitation rates in the spawning grounds during winter, prior to the start of the next spawning season. The chapter also includes models of the probability an individual is a second-year spawner based on individual characteristics. Chapter 2 determines if the observed and potential blue crab spawning season are expanding in association with climate change. Chapter 3 estimates batch fecundity relative to historic estimates, as well as individual size, spawning history, and time of year. Chapter 3 also quantifies and models individual quantities of stored sperm, and is the first study to estimate blue crab brood production using paired fecundity and stored sperm quantity data. Last, Chapter 4 assesses the relative abundance of mature females during spawning and evaluates trends in mean size at maturity over time. Chapter four also explores the impact of changes in abundance and size on total egg production using size-specific fecundity. The results of this research indicate that primiparous blue crabs have a high capacity for reproduction, and females in spring, who are more likely to be primiparous, are becoming more vulnerable to fishing mortality with climate change. Since management actions were implemented, exploitation has been reduced and the proportion of second-year spawners, relative abundance, mean size at maturity, and total egg production of the population have improved; however, improvements are marginal or remain below pre-decline levels (i.e., prior to 1992). Moreover, dramatic variability in these metrics highlights the need for more precautionary fishery management. Specifically, the results suggest that conservation of female blue crabs may be improved if the spawning sanctuary is closed to commercial fishing earlier in the year, in accordance with warming, and female exploitation is reduced in spring.Virginia Institute of Marine ScienceDoctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.
Use of Molecular Logic Gates for the Tuning of Chemosensor Dynamic Range
No full textThe first molecular logic gates were created in the 1990s; integrating such logic gates into fluorescent chemosensors allowed for the detection of different types of ions in solution. In this study, we have developed a new use of molecular logic gates by having two of the same type of binding site. The two binding sites on a fluorophore that both detect Na+ ions led to an increase in the detection limit compared with the chemosensor with a single binding site. Since the two sodium binding sites create an AND logic gate, two sodium ions are needed to generate a fluorescence response whereas the single-input chemosensor only requires a single ion. Tuning the chemosensor dynamic range is an important problem that must be overcome for developing useful chemosensors, and our technique can be used to shift the dynamic range without the need for novel ligands and binding sites.ChemistryBachelors of Science (BS
From Rain Drops To Rivers: Unraveling Aridification's Influence On Coastal Stream Ecosystem Dynamics
No full textThis dissertation addresses the escalating threat of aridification to global freshwater ecosystems due to anthropogenic climate change, focusing on South-Central Texas, USA, using a space-for-time approach along a precipitation gradient from semi-arid to sub-humid. Over the 2017-2020 survey period, I integrated community, stable isotope, climate, and hydrologic data.In Chapter 2, my initial assessment of fish and invertebrate communities along the precipitation gradient unveiled compositional shifts and other nuanced responses. Positive correlations between fish diversity and rainfall, coupled with unexpected invertebrate diversity patterns, underscored the role of water quality in shaping fish assemblages. Drier conditions imposed abiotic filters, reducing diversity and favoring taxa with specialized adaptations, particularly in semi-arid systems with a dominance of euryhaline and live-bearing taxa. Chapter 3 examined differences in allochthonous and autochthonous dependencies as well as overall food-web structure across the precipitation gradient. In drier climates, a shift from insect predation to herbivory was apparent, supported by stable isotope data indicating increased autochthonous assimilation, wider resource use, and reduced trophic levels. Invertebrate metrics suggested limited bottom-up effects, while niche dimensions indicated top-down control at Sub-Humid and competition at Semi-Arid and Transition sites to be important drivers of food web structure. In summary, aridification intensifies autochthonous production, fish herbivory, and invertebrate dietary overlap in semi-arid streams. Chapter 4, exploring ecological connectivity in coastal rivers, focused on inconspicuous amphidromous species. Stable isotope analysis quantified substantial estuarine assimilation and highlighted dam impacts on connectivity. Significant downstream to upstream connectivity, driven by completely amphidromous taxa, emphasized vulnerability to interruptions by dams, urbanization, and climate change. Dominance of Fundulidae, Cyprinidontidae, and Palaemonidae families facilitated estuarine nutrient subsidies. Chapter 5 addressed ecological impacts of hydrological disturbances, challenging prevailing notions about flood effects. Results revealed nuanced relationships influenced by long-term precipitation patterns, with varied impacts of drought events based on precipitation regimes. These findings contribute to a refined understanding of climate, hydrology, and fish communities, offering insights into how different precipitation regimes shape responses to hydrological disturbances. Specifically, my data highlighted Poeciliid resilience and reduced centrarchid abundances during hydrological droughts in hot and arid summers. This dissertation unveils nuanced ecological dynamics within semi-arid ecosystems, where abiotic filters, influenced by water quality, shape fish communities. The prevalence of euryhaline and live-bearing taxa, along with amphidromous species, underscores the vital role of estuarine connectivity in maintaining resilient coastal rivers, especially in arid climates. My findings elucidate intricate ecological responses to floods, droughts, and seasonality, contingent upon long-term precipitation patterns. As regions teeter on the brink of transitioning from mesic to semi-arid climates, my results foreshadow analogous transformations in stream ecosystems. This scholarly pursuit represents a substantial stride in advancing ecological understanding, offering vital insights for adept stewardship amid the challenges presented by climate-induced alterations.Virginia Institute of Marine ScienceDoctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.
Shared Nightmares: A Cross-Cultural Examination of Sleep Paralysis and the Role of Cultural Background on Its Expression
No full textThe present work establishes a framework to analyze the expression of a phenomenon known as sleep paralysis in varying cultures. Sleep paralysis experiences can influence an individual’s worldview and larger-scale cultural movements. Cultural background, religious identity, linguistic interpretation, cognitive function, and experiences of trauma are all analyzed as factors that contribute to a person’s experience of sleep paralysis. The current work seeks to take the cycle of fear (of sleep paralysis), resulting in increased instances of sleep paralysis, that exists on an individual level and expand this concept to a larger cultural scale. As elements of an individual’s culture work to inform an experience of sleep paralysis, sleep paralysis informs these things in turn. This cycle works to both construct and substantiate fascinating pieces of folklore. This work also explores how fear and anxiety regarding sleep paralysis and an experience known as sudden unexpected nocturnal death syndrome (SUNDS) can impact a person’s physiological health. Keywords: sleep paralysis, folklore, SUNDSPsychologyBachelors of Science (BS
Lingua Asia: Decolonizing Heritage Language Education
No full textThe emergence of APIA programs within higher education has assisted in posing the question of what should be included in the K-12 history curriculum as it is lacking in Asian American history, African American history, and other marginalized groups’ history and information. In tandem, heritage learning Mandarin classes, while they do attempt to bring the students' writing and reading levels up to their speaking levels, instead focus solely on Chinese history, culture, identity, and societal problems. This is valuable; however, what of the Chinese American identity? There has been a surplus of over 200 years of Chinese American history within this country, yet there is no learning opportunity for Chinese American heritage learners to learn in their mother tongue while also learning about their own Chinese American identity and the significance of this identity unlike Latin American Studies (LAS) which offer this and more. This project’s goal is to set a standard for creating a syllabus that would reflect what is missing for Chinese American heritage learners: a class plan in which Chinese American history is taught in Mandarin. This project aims to provide tools for future Chinese American students to strengthen their ethnic and social identity through not only language education but also through the knowledge of their history. Note: The last section utilizes Mandarin Chinese. Keywords: Decolonization, Chinese American, Education, Heritage languageAsian & Pacific Islander American StudiesBachelors of Arts (BA
A Decentralized Graduate Admissions Process And The Impact On Black Student Enrollment In A Selected Higher Education Institution: An Action Research Study
No full textThis study examined the lower enrollment of Black students in graduate programs compared to their enrollment in undergraduate programs. In today’s climate with the recent Supreme Court case rulings and the enrollment cliff, recruiting Black students is both challenging and incredibly important. To address this problem, the study explored how a decentralized graduate admissions process affects enrollment for Black students. The participants in the study are Graduate Admissions Professionals (GAPs) at The University who oversee the graduate admissions process for their individual academic units. For this action research study, the GAPs completed a diversity and inclusion workshop that focused on admissions requirements and the evaluation process of applicants to measure the impact a workshop would have on Black student enrollment. Participants completed a pre-intervention survey, a feedback survey, a post-interventionsurvey, and an individual one-on-one interview with the researcher. Mixed methods were employed by first analyzing the pre- and post-intervention surveys using descriptive analysis through a Paired Samples t-test. The feedback survey and interview responses were transcribed and analyzed using a coding process. The study findings suggest that a diversity and inclusion-focused workshop can help align graduate admissions practices with institutional missions and values. Practical recommendations from the study are (a) detailed diversity goals with accountability metrics, (b) partnerships with the DEI office to make data-driven decisions regarding application requirements, (c) expand workshop participation to all who are involved in the process, and (d) modify workshop to include interactive experiences.EducationDoctor of Education (Ed.D.
An Evaluation Of The Factors Influencing The Implementation Of An In-School Tutoring Program In A Small Independent School
No full textIndividual tutoring is noted to be one of the most effective ways to overcome academic achievement gaps and improve student achievement. The Supplemental Learning Support Program provides academic support to students during the school day. The purpose of this study was to conduct a formative evaluation of the program. A mixed-methods study design involving focus groups, an online survey, and analysis of student assessment data was used, and study participants included program tutors and deans. The study sought to examine the extent to which the program is being implemented as designed and explore the factors that support and hinder the program from obtaining its intended outcomes. Despite being in operation for over 20 years, the program had not been formally evaluated to determine its effectiveness. Findings revealed that the consideration given to the tutoring relationship, quality of tutors, communication within the program, intentional schedule design, and access to curriculum materials has improved student outcomes. The absence of a referral, assessment, and progress monitoring process has limited the effectiveness of tutoring due to an unclear process through which students access the program, lack of curricular alignment with tutoring goals and classroom instruction, inconsistent communication between teachers and tutors, and uncertain student availability. Policy and practice implications and recommendations for implementing the program are provided. Areas identified for future research are outlined as well.EducationDoctor of Education (Ed.D.
Artificial Illumination Of Trawl Gear Components To Reduce Pacific Halibut (Hippoglossus Stenolepis) Bycatch In The U.s. West Coast Groundfish Bottom Trawl Fishery
No full textPacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) is a prohibited species for the U.S. West Coast Bottom Trawl Fishery and in the last decade, there has been a concentrated interest in the use of artificial illumination serving as a potential bycatch reduction device. Previous studies conducted off the coast of Oregon have found that the addition of green light-emitting diodes to the bridles of low-rise, cutback trawls greatly reduced the number of Pacific halibut caught. However, recent regulation changes now permit high-rise trawls, a gear configuration that fishes a very different volume of water than the previously permissible gear profile, in areas where they were once prohibited. No study to date has investigated the efficacy of artificial illumination to reduce Pacific halibut bycatch for this configuration. Field trials for this study were conducted off the Oregon Coast during August of 2022 and were designed to test a high-rise bottom trawl fitted with artificial illumination as a means to potentially reduce Pacific halibut bycatch. Length-dependent catch comparison and catch ratio analyses for trawls with and without illumination were conducted to determine if catches of Pacific halibut and three commercially important groundfish species differ between trawl treatments. Somatic fat content of Pacific halibut and physiological indicators of stress were also assessed via blood plasma samples to determine if there was a difference in physiological condition between Pacific halibut captured in either illuminated or non-illuminated tows. Additionally, an ethogram was constructed to quantify Pacific halibut behavior in response to an approaching high-rise trawl. Analyses were based on a simulated dataset based on previous flatfish behavioral studies and qualitative evidence from video and sonar recordings collected during field trials. While illuminated trawls caught fewer individuals than the non-illuminated trawls for all species in this study, the difference in catch was not statistically significant. Total catch size was found to have a significantly positive effect on glucose and lactate levels for Pacific halibut; however, no statistically significant differences between illuminated and non-illuminated tows were exhibited across all of the physiological parameters assessed in this study. I hypothesize that this lack of difference between treatment groups may have resulted from the change in gear configuration as Pacific halibut are more likely to rise off of the seafloor when responding to an approaching net. The higher headrope orientation used in a high-rise trawl configuration may be presenting too much of a challenge for halibut seeking to avoid the path of the trawl. It is also possible that the location of the lights was insufficient in triggering a change in avoidance behaviors. These findings are contrary to prior evidence and could have potential implications for the industry. Further investigation into Pacific halibut behavior is implored.Virginia Institute of Marine ScienceMaster of Science (M.Sc.
Great Expectations: An Evaluation Of A Program For Foster Youth In Higher Education
Get PDFGreat Expectations is a Virginia Community College System program for youth who were infoster care after the age of 13. Foster youth enter college with multiple disadvantages, including being less academically prepared compared to their peers and often lacking social support for their education. A program evaluation was conducted at a specific community college, Virginia Community College (pseudonym), to determine if the program was being implemented with fidelity, to compare the participants’ grade point averages and retention rates with other under-resourced students, and to discover the staff’s views on the successes of the program and their perspectives on needed improvements of the program. It was determined that selected areas of the program were being fully implemented while other parts were only partially implemented. Compared to both Pell Grant recipients and the general student population, Great Expectations students had lower grade point averages and lower retention rates. Staff described some of their perceived successes in the program, including student engagement and access. The staff provided recommendations for the improvement of the Great Expectations program, including the hiring of a full-time Great Expectations coach/coordinator whose sole responsibility is to lead the College’s Great Expectations program. Additionally, the staff advocated for consistent funding at the institutional level for the program, and noted the importance of increased promotion and publicity of Great Expectations so more parties are aware of its purpose and its opportunities for aged-out foster youth. The findings of the study suggest these improvements could lead to greater levels of academic success for Great Expectations scholars.EducationDoctor of Education (Ed.D.