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Nepaliness as Assemblage: Diasporic Belonging, Colorism, and Caste in the Associational Life of Nepali Migrants in Florida
No full textThe research fundamentally challenges romanticized ideas of migration—shedding older inequalities, idealizing “leveling up,” and being a part of “unified diasporic communities”—and unmasks a rather uneasy, far more intricate reality: the preexisting sociocultural and political structures and identities are not shed, rather actively reproduced and rigorously, often consciously, reconfigured within the transnational diasporic spaces. As such, the research reveals that Nepali diasporic associations in Florida play a vital role in perpetuating and reshaping social inequalities and contested national identities, significantly impacting transnational dynamics. The work contends that caste hierarchies persist in structuring associational life, influencing participation and resource distribution. Concurrently, colorism complicates and “tints” the transnational experience, shaping new forms of stratification that affect belonging and identity. “Nepaliness” evolves as a dynamic identity, negotiated through power struggles and gatekeeper interactions, often in sentiments of home as a transnational and political idea. Through ethnographic fieldwork, the study uncovers the social dynamics and practices where these processes occur, showing how transnational associational spaces become sites for contesting and redefining social inequality and collective identity. Lastly, the research provides critical insights into the lasting influence of social structures in global contexts, complicating existing theories of transnationalism, identity, and community formations, underscoring the often-unequal social topographies of diasporic associational lives
Applications of Contracting Self-Similar Groups to Cryptography and Scale Groups
No full textGiven their peculiar properties, self-similar groups are of great interest both from applications and theoretical standpoints. In this work we study the scope of their applications in post-quantum cryptography and in constructing scale groups via lifting maps.
We propose self-similar contracting groups as a platform for cryptographic schemes based on simultaneous conjugacy search problem (SCSP). This class of groups admits fast polynomial-time algorithms for the word problem and element multiplication that can be used for effective encryption and decryption of messages. It contains extraordinary examples like the Grigorchuk group, which is known to be non-linear, thus making some of existing attacks against SCSP inapplicable. The elements of groups in this class admit a natural normal form based on the notion of a nucleus portrait that plays a key role in our approach. While for some of these groups, the conjugacy search problem has been studied, there is no general algorithm working for a large class, and there are currently no studies of the simultaneous version of the problem. We discuss benefits and drawbacks of using these groups in group-based cryptography and provide computational analysis of one of our proposed variants of the length-based attack on SCSP for some purposefully selected groups in the class, including the Grigorchuk and Basilica groups.
Our analysis shows that the studied version of the length-based attack is least effective when a platform group has a large nucleus and is acting on a tree of a large degree. We study the multi-EGS groups that, as we prove, satisfy both of these properties. We explicitly compute the contracting nuclei of the groups in this class and specialize our results to the classes of multi-edge spinal groups and EGS-groups. Additionally, we provide sufficient conditions for these groups to be liftable and thus to produce new examples of groups acting transitively on regular trees of finite degree stabilizing one of the ends, whose closures are scale groups as defined by Willis
Food for Thought: Binge Planning Cognitions and Behaviors Within an Online Sample of Adults with Binge-Type Eating Disorders
No full textResearch has begun exploring the phenomenon of binge planning, wherein individuals who binge eat do so with forethought, rather than impulsively. What specific thought processes and behaviors comprise binge plans remains unexamined. How, or if, the eating disorder presentations of individuals who plan binges ahead of time differ from those who binge impulsively is also still unknown. The present study sought to explore the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with binge planning, and to identify how the motivations, symptomologies, and personality traits (i.e., impulsivity) differ between binge eaters who do or do not plan their binges. An online study using self-report questionnaires including a novel measure of binge planning was conducted to meet these aims. Results revealed that binge planning may have more to do with a focus on food than with the behavior of binge eating itself, and that the traits and symptom profiles of those who plan binges are not substantially different from those who do not. Implications and directions for future investigations are discusse
You Should Not Judge, You Should Understand : The Effects and Perceptions of an Empathy Embedded Teacher Inquiry Framework
No full textA slew of challenges make up the landscape of special education today-from teacher shortages to lack of resources and vast inequities. Teachers must be able to effectively address the diverse needs of students in the midst of the aforementioned challenges at a micro, meso, and macro level. Teacher Inquiry, an iterative problem-solving cycle, is an effective framework for teachers to do so. The purpose of this study was to develop a systematic empathy-embedded problem-solving cycle for special education teachers in order to increase student progress and effective problem-solving in the educational setting, while exploring how teachers say they perceive this intervention and how it works, in order to more fully develop it in the future. A mixed methods approach was used to answer the research questions “What are the effects of an empathy embedded teacher inquiry framework on teacher behavior?”, “What are the effects of an empathy embedded teacher inquiry framework on student behavior outcomes?”, “In what ways does an empathy embedded teacher inquiry framework impact teacher thinking and perceptions of their practices?”, “In what ways does an empathy embedded teacher inquiry framework impact teacher perceptions of their students and student progress?”, and “In what ways does an empathy embedded teacher inquiry framework impact the development of empathy in teachers?”
Strain in the System: Examining the Relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Pathways into Cybercrime
No full textThis study examines the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and cybercriminal behavior among 238 active hackers with verified website defacements identified through the Zone-H archive. Drawing upon General Strain Theory, this research investigates whether childhood trauma influences both the developmental timing and motivational aspects of hacking activities. Using ordinary least squares and ordered logistic regression analyses with country-clustered standard errors, the study tested two hypotheses: (1) that higher ACE scores would be associated with earlier onset of hacking behavior, and (2) that higher ACE scores would predict increased likelihood of engaging in revenge-motivated hacking. Results revealed a complex relationship that challenges established criminological patterns. Contrary to expectations based on traditional crime research, ACE scores showed no significant relationship with age of first hack (β = 0.150, p = 0.303), suggesting that childhood trauma does not accelerate entry into cybercrime as it does with conventional criminal behavior. However, the second hypothesis received strong support, with ACE scores demonstrating a robust positive relationship with revenge-motivated hacking (β = 0.181, p \u3c 0.001) that persisted even after controlling for country-level clustering across 45 nations. These contrasting findings indicate that adverse childhood experiences shape the emotional and motivational dimensions of cybercrime rather than its developmental timing. While ACEs do not predict when individuals begin hacking, they significantly influence how they engage in such activities, with trauma-exposed individuals showing greater propensity for revenge-oriented attacks. This pattern suggests fundamental differences between cybercrime and traditional crime pathways, highlighting the need for trauma-informed approaches to cybersecurity that address the psychological drivers of malicious hacking alongside technical vulnerabilities. The results contribute to emerging literature on the human factors in cybersecurity while extending strain theory to digital deviance contexts
New Petrographic and Geochemical Constraints on Pre-eruptive Storage Conditions and Their Control on Eruptive Styles in Martinique’s Recent Volcanic Systems
No full textThis dissertation investigates the volcanic systems of Martinique Island, focusing on magma storage conditions, magmatic evolution, and eruption dynamics. Chapter 3 presents a petrographic analysis of volcanic rocks from the island’s old, intermediate, and recent arcs, examining the evolution of plagioclase textures and the increasing abundance of other mineral phases, such as pyroxene, amphibole, olivine, and quartz, which provide insights into changing magmatic conditions. The main research is divided into two projects. Chapter 4 addresses the pre-eruptive storage conditions (pressure and temperature) of magmas beneath recent (\u3c5 Ma) volcanic complexes (Morne Jacob, Piton du Carbet, Trois Îlets, Mt. Conil, and Mt. Pelée), exploring magma evolution, crystallization, and the role of lower crustal injections and flank collapses in triggering eruptions. Results reveal variable magma storage depths (\u3c6 km), with significant temperature and pressure variations, indicating complex magmatic systems. Chapter 5 focuses on the Roches-Genty ignimbrite in southwestern Martinique, investigating its stratigraphy, geochemistry, and age using field mapping, grain size analysis, and 40Ar/39Ar dating. The study identifies two distinct sub-Plinian eruptive phases associated with the Dizac ignimbrite, with ages of 3.37 ± 0.14 Ma and 2.10 ± 0.26 Ma, providing insights into past explosive volcanic activity. Geochemical analysis confirms an andesitic composition, similar to regional volcanic systems. This dissertation enhances understanding of Martinique’s volcanic history, providing valuable insights into magmatic processes and eruption dynamics, with implications for volcanic hazard assessments in the Lesser Antilles
Genetic Counseling Student Anxiety, Self-Efficacy, and Study Strategy Use for the Genetic Counseling Board Certification Exam.
No full textWith a 76% pass rate for the 2024 American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) certification exam, it\u27s crucial to evaluate the study strategies used by candidates and their alignment with evidence-based practices. This study surveyed 84 genetic counseling students and graduates from 35 U.S. and Canadian training programs, focusing on demographic data, study strategy usage, anxiety, and self-efficacy. Study strategies were categorized into one of three groups: 1) active strategies, which promote recall and understanding, 2) passive strategies, and 3) hybrid, for strategies that involve both active and passive engagement as well as three metacognitive strategies: regulating learning, monitoring learning, and reflecting on mistakes. Results showed that the most common passive strategy was reviewing notes (33% spent over an hour/week), while flashcards were the most used active strategy (42% spent over an hour/week). Other active strategies, like self-testing (37%), elaboration (27%), and problem sets (24%), were less frequently used. These findings suggest that students invest a lot of time on flashcards that help with memorization and recall. However, increasing the use of other active strategies, which are more effective in promoting deeper understanding and application of knowledge, is particularly important given that 75-80% of questions on the ABGC board exam are application questions. Monitoring learning was the most common metacognitive strategy, with 18% dedicating over an hour/week. Correlations revealed that frequent use of metacognitive strategies was strongly associated with more time spent on both active (r = .754) and passive (r = .693) study strategies. Higher anxiety was linked to more time spent on board exam study (r = .288, p = 0.008). Additionally, anxiety and self-efficacy were moderately negatively correlated (r = -0.535, p \u3c.001). These findings suggest that while anxiety may act as a motivator for increased study time, integrating metacognitive strategies could enhance study effectiveness and improve overall exam preparation
Integrating Visual Pedagogies with the Digital Platform to Establish Authenticity as a Gold Standard in Chinese Ideological and Political Education
No full textThis qualitative study investigates the role of visual pedagogies, including photo-elicitation via Xiaohongshu, in fostering authentic engagement in asynchronous discussions within Chinese Ideological and Political Education (CIPE). It examines both the pedagogical opportunities and challenges associated with integrating visual content—such as images, videos, and multimedia—into CIPE. In response to limitations in traditional CIPE teaching methods, particularly in promoting critical thinking and meaningful student interaction, the research explores how digital tools can enhance engagement and provide a culturally responsive framework for ideological education.
The study addresses two central research questions: (1) How do CIPE instructors perceive the role of visual pedagogies in fostering authentic engagement in asynchronous discussions? (2) What are the pedagogical opportunities and challenges of using visual content in CIPE? To answer these questions, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and visual artifacts shared on Xiaohongshu, providing a comprehensive understanding of how instructors and students interact with visual pedagogies.
Framed by the Authentic Online Community of Learning Framework (AOCLF), the research aligns the analysis of visual pedagogies with four dimensions: authenticity, interactivity, cultural relevance, and networking. Findings reveal that visual content, particularly when culturally resonant and contextually relevant, enhances authenticity by connecting abstract ideological principles with students’ real-world experiences. Instructors highlighted the role of visuals in stimulating reflective and critical discussions, while students reported greater emotional and cognitive engagement through interactive and multimedia-based learning activities.
Despite these benefits, the study identifies challenges in the implementation of visual pedagogies, including variability in technological proficiency, potential misinterpretation of visual prompts, and the need for careful curation of culturally and ideologically sensitive content. Xiaohongshu’s multimedia features and interactive tools were found to mitigate some of these challenges by fostering collaborative learning and offering a flexible platform for engaging students in asynchronous discussions.
Ultimately, this study underscores the transformative potential of visual pedagogies in modernizing CIPE, offering practical insights for educators and policymakers. By integrating digital tools and culturally resonant content, the findings highlight opportunities to enhance the authenticity and interactivity of CIPE while addressing its pedagogical challenges. This research provides a replicable model for higher education institutions seeking to innovate ideological education in a rapidly digitalizing world
Argentine Diaspora in the United States: Experiences of Recent Emigrants and their Ties with the Homeland
No full textThis thesis examines the Argentine diaspora settled in the United States. It analyzes both the experiences of Argentines who have migrated to the United States in the last decade and the transnational ties they develop with the home country as well as the diaspora engagement policies put in place by the Argentine State. The research addresses three key questions: What are the main characteristics of Argentine emigrants who have moved to the United States over the past decade? How do recent Argentine migrants in the United States construct and maintain their transnational ties with their country of origin? Is the concept of diaspora applicable to Argentine emigrants in the United States, and why? Argentines in the United States are members of a national community abroad that comprise a diaspora because they share an imaginary, an identification, and a will to belong which manifest as a group identity based on their national origin. That national community abroad created by the citizens who emigrated may be understood as an extension of the Argentine society connected through transnational ties, which are promoted by both the Argentine government and members of the diaspora themselves. As citizens abroad, emigrants have become the focus of concrete policies and social initiatives to build, maintain, and reinforce those transnational ties with Argentina. Because of that, this research, based on semi-structured interviews with recent Argentinean migrants, with Consular officials, and documental analysis, explores the policies and initiatives developed as a response to recent emigration processes. It shows that the Argentine diaspora maintains deep-rooted connections to Argentina through transnational relationships with the country of origin
Wireless In-Situ Slurry Testing Device
No full textDeep foundations are a critical piece of infrastructure used in bridge and high-rise constructions. A type of deep foundation called a drilled shaft is commonly used for these types of large structures due to their ability to resist large axial and lateral loads. Excavations in many soils require hole stabilization methods often involving drilling fluids like polymer or bentonite slurries. When used properly, these slurries prevent groundwater intrusion and side wall sloughing into the excavation. Slurry specifications are set by local or state jurisdictions, research findings, or product manufacturers. Over the years, the Florida standard specifications on slurry integrity testing have been changed to allow testing on larger intervals, decreasing the amount of testing done. The current field-testing methods for slurry properties require removing a sample of slurry from the excavation and testing per standardized testing procedures. Removing and testing samples is time consuming and has led to the development of downhole devices to measure slurry properties in-place. The basis of this research was to improve upon a previously designed downhole slurry device. While this new device uses the same concepts as the previous device, the intent was to make it more compact, digital, wireless, and user-friendly. The modernization of the major components of the device contributed heavily to the new device weight and size, making it far easier to lower and remove the device from drilled shaft excavations. An on-board computer incorporates a data acquisition system which provides Bluetooth communications and data transfer