16484 research outputs found
Sort by
A Thermodynamic Modeling Approach for Environmentally Optimized Prospective Design of Spherical Porous Reactive Aggregates
No full textPredictive modeling enables the minimization of time, effort and cost in product and process design. This study identifies a comprehensive predictive model design methodology that focuses on environmental optimization through thermodynamic simulation. Herein, we apply the method to the processing of coal ash via high temperature sintering by combining thermodynamic and life cycle assessment (LCA) simulation tools to optimize processing conditions. Specifically, waste glass is benchmarked against prior study of NaOH, as a viable fluxing agent for two different coal bottom ash (CBA) melts to yield spherical porous reactive aggregates (SPoRA). This research demonstrates thermodynamic simulation as a primary tool to achieve an optimal operating temperature, above the solidus temperature where enough (critical) liquid phase (χmin = 50 wt%) is present to promote a glass exterior without compromising the critical total system viscosity (ηmin = 8000 Pa-s), and design of high quality SPoRA in building materials. A predictive ideal glassy and near-spherical SPoRA product is calculated by applying these design criteria (χmin and ηmin), from completely recycled waste glass and CBA feedstock materials, as a function of alternative glass type (soda lime glass and end-of-life fluorescent lamp glass) and varying concentration of fluxing agent glass:ash ratio. This methodology developed serves as a design guide for producing high quality SPoRA while optimizing select life cycle environmental impacts. Moreover, by applying the predictive methodology, this work tests fluxing agent behavior over a wide operating temperature range (800°C-1400°C) and optimizes the quantity of fluxing agent as input parameters to LCA to identify respective environmental impacts. Thus, this thermodynamic simulation approach applied to CBA and alternative fluxing agents enables a viable design model according to ideal characteristics of final SPoRA product and allows integrating environmental life cycle evaluation at an early-stage of design for lightweight aggregates. The general design framework can be applied to other design systems where the engineering properties and environmental performance of a final product can be optimized together prior to experimentation as well as scale-up process design.
Voorspellend modelleren maakt het minimaliseren van tijd, moeite en kosten in product- en procesontwerp mogelijk. Dit onderzoek identificeert een omvattende voorspellende modelontwerpmethodologie, die gericht is op milieuoptimalisatie door middel van thermodynamische simulatie. Hierbij passen we de methode toe op het verwerken van steenkoolas via sintering bij hoge temperatuur, waarbij we simulatietools voor thermodynamische en levenscyclusanalyse (LCA) combineren om de verwerkingscondities te optimaliseren. Specifiek wordt gerecycleerd afvalglas vergeleken met een eerdere studie van natriumhydroxide (NaOH), als een potentieel fluxmiddel voor twee verschillende steenkool-bodemas (CBA) samensmeltingen om sferische poreuze reactieve aggregaten (SPoRA) te verkrijgen. Dit onderzoek wijst uit dat thermodynamische simulatie een primair hulpmiddel kan zijn om een optimale verwerkingstemperatuur te bereiken, boven de solidustemperatuur, waar voldoende (kritische) vloeistoffase (χmin = 50 m%) aanwezig is om een glazige buitenkant te kunnen vormen zonder de kritische totale systeemviscositeit (ηmin) aan te tasten (8000 Pa.s); dit stelt ons daarnaast in staat om SPoRA van hoge kwaliteit te ontwerpen voor bouwmaterialen. De voorspelling voor een ideaal, glasachtig en bijna bolvormig SPoRA-product, wordt berekend door deze ontwerpcriteria (χmin en ηmin) toe te passen op volledig gerecycled afvalglas en CBA-basismaterialen, als een functie van alternatieve glastypes (natronkalkglas en glas van fluorescentielampen waarvan de levensduur ten einde loopt) en variërende concentraties aan glas:as verhouding. Deze ontwikkelde methodologie dient als een ontwerpgids voor het produceren van SPoRA van hoge kwaliteit, en voor het optimaliseren van geselecteerde milieueffecten gedurende de levenscyclus. Bovendien test dit onderzoek, door toepassing van de voorspellende methodologie, het gedrag van fluxmiddelen in een breed bereik aan verwerkingstemperaturen (800°C-1400°C) en optimaliseert het de hoeveelheid fluxmiddel die als invoerparameter voor LCA dient, om de respectievelijke milieueffecten hiervan te identificeren. Deze thermodynamische simulatiebenadering, toegepast op CBA en alternatieve fluxmiddelen, maakt dus een levensvatbaar ontwerpmodel mogelijk dat overeenkomstig is met de ideale kenmerken van het uiteindelijke SPoRA product, en maakt het mogelijk om de milieu-levenscyclusevaluatie in een vroeg stadium van het ontwerpproces voor lichtgewichtaggregaten te integreren. Het algemene ontwerpkader kan overigens ook worden toegepast op andere ontwerpsystemen; ook hier kunnen de technische eigenschappen van een eindproduct, evenals de milieuprestaties, worden geoptimaliseerd middels thermodynamische simulaties, voorafgaand aan het uitvoeren van experimenten in het laboratorium of aan het verder opschalen van een bepaald procesontwerp.M.S., Environmental Engineering -- Drexel University, 201
Protest and the President: A Study of MSNBC’s Primetime Coverage of the NFL Kneeling Protest and the Influence of the Protest Paradigm
No full textThe purpose of this study was to analyze the way that MSNBC Primetime news covered the NFL Kneeling protest in order to see the ways in which their coverage upheld the protest paradigm and delegitimized the protest or dissented against the protest paradigm and gave credence to the protest. This was examined through three areas of research, the words and phrases used in their coverage, the voices and people that participated in the coverage, and the way President Donald Trump was incorporated into the coverage. A content analysis was completed to do this research. Transcripts from All In with Chris Matthews, The Rachel Maddow Show, and The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell from the dates of September 25 through October 13, 2018 were coded for the ways the types of language suppression tactics used, the background of the contributors used, and if the President was incorporated. The results showed that the majority of statements made during the coverage used some sort of language suppression tactic and there was an overwhelming inclusion of or reference to the President’s comments in the coverage.M.S., Television Management -- Drexel University, 201
Implementing Structured Contraception Counseling to Increase Knowledge and Compliance Among Childbearing Women
No full textUnintended pregnancy is a major public health issue in the United States (U.S.). It is estimated that 23% of women with unintended pregnancies had inadequate knowledge or inconsistently used contraceptives. Despite the existence of contraceptive counseling and educational interventions, women of childbearing age still lack adequate knowledge of family planning methods. The primary aim of the current quality improvement (QI) project was to implement a structured contraceptive counseling intervention to enhance knowledge of family planning and promote contraceptive compliance among a convenience sample of childbearing women who visit an Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) clinic and potentially decrease unintended pregnancies. A structured counseling intervention was implemented using an educational pamphlet that described birth control methods. The project leader actively educated the participants and allowed them to take home the pamphlets used in the counseling session. The Contraceptive Knowledge Assessment (CKA) questionnaire was used to measure the participants’ knowledge of family planning before and after the structured counseling sessions to determine the effectiveness of the intervention. The Satisfaction with Decision (SWD) questionnaire was used to measure the participants’ compliance after the implementation of the structured contraception counseling to assess the levels of compliance regarding the decision made about family planning. The theoretical foundation of the current QI project was based on the Health Belief Model (HBM). Statistical analysis was conducted using independent samples t-test at .05 level of significance. Keywords: contraception, structured contraceptive counseling, contraception knowledge, contraceptive compliance, childbearing women, unintended pregnancy, Health Belief ModelD.N.P., Nursing Practice -- Drexel University, 201
Customization to Support All Learners: A Phenomenological Study of Critical Issues Relative to Customized Learning
No full textWhen the needs of learners are misunderstood or ignored, traditional teaching strategies prove ineffective and the needs of the 21st century learner are not met. The purpose of this qualitative research is to describe the lived experiences of teachers as they use customized teaching strategies to support student learning in their classrooms. Specific issues relative to technology and underperforming and underrepresented student groups were explored to gain a deeper understanding of how gender, disabilities, culture, and socio-economic status impact students' leaning and inform the effective use of customized teaching strategies that are supported by technology. From a social constructivist's perspective, this phenomenological research addressed the following research questions: How do teachers in K-12, public schools in Pennsylvania describe their experience with implementing customized practices in a complex, dynamic, and technologically-enhanced educational environment? How do teachers characterize their efforts to use technology and customization to address the needs of all learners, especially those who do not benefit from a 'one-size-fits-all' instructional approach? How do teachers describe the impact of their personal experiences on their customized practices? The conceptual framework examined how technology has impacted the mindset of the 21st century student, the characteristics of effective customization, and teacher adoption of technology and customized teaching practices. The findings of this phenomenological study include descriptions offered by seven middle school teachers relative to their customized teaching strategies. Seven findings were synthesized into five results: the dynamic differences between a customized and traditional instructional approach, components that are critical to customization, enhanced relationships and learning experiences, support of 21st century skills, and the lack of explicit consideration of needs based on gender, culture, and socio-economic status. Recommendations for future research, a consideration of the needs of specific demographic groups, professional development, increasing collaboration, and re-designing school systems are discussed.Ed.D., Educational Leadership and Management -- Drexel University, 201
Development of a Cell Free MALDI TOFMS Method for the Identification of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Yeast Strain & Studies of the Molecular Properties of MALDI Matrices
No full textThis thesis is divided into two parts, where the molecular properties , and salt contamination of MALDI matrices are first investigated, followed by the development of a cell-free method for the identification of yeast strains by MALDI TOFMS. In Part 1, the solubility of several common MALDI matrices are measured in a variety of solvents , and mixtures of acetonitrile , and water. In addition to the solubility measurements, sublimation , and recrystallization methods are used to reduce the alkali contamination present in commercially available MALDI matrices. Work in both areas resulted in improved sample preparation, which aided the work described in part 2. In Part 2 of the thesis, a cell-free method was developed as an alternative to the currently used Bruker Biotyper method for the identification of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae yeast strains via MALDI TOFMS analysis. SPE was used for concentrating the desired peptide/protein analytes , and for removing interferences. Factorial design optimization experiments were performed to increase the efficiency of the SPE method, while MALDI TOFMS in combination with the Bradford protein assay were used to monitor the optimization. Problems were encountered with the Bradford assay, including interference from the presence of acetonitrile in the elution solution. Results showed that the extent of interference depends on the protein used as the st, andard for the assay; Angiotensin I was found to be a better st, andard than BSA, , and relationship between peptide st, andard size , and the number of dye molecules bound to the protein was uncovered. Yeast strains were successfully identified using the Bruker Biotyper method which requires the lysing of viable cells to obtain signal from ribosomal proteins. As an alternative, a new cell-free approach is introduced where liquid samples of the cell supernatant is used for the analysis. The new approach is also successful in correctly identifying yeast strains, , and it demonstrated 33% success rate in identifying the yeast strain used to brew 3 homebrewed beers.Ph.D., Chemistry -- Drexel University, 201
The Veteran Problem Inventory: Development and Preliminary Psychometric Properties of a Survey Instrument for Military Veterans
No full textThere is little information on the day-to-day problems that Veterans of the United States military experience. The paucity of such information is due to the absence of instruments specifically designed to document these problems. The authors developed such an instrument, the Veteran Problem Inventory (VPI), and present a study of 183 Veteran participants piloting this measure. This evaluation led to a revision of the questionnaire, which represents the final version of the VPI, and the categorization of items into distinct problem categories representing cognitive, employment, physical health, psychosocial, and relationship problem areas. The pattern of correlations of the VPI with other study variables (everyday stressors, depressive symptomatology, perceived stress, positive and negative affect, and problem solving abilities) provided preliminary evidence of content and concurrent validity. The nature of this research does not allow for definitive conclusions to be made; however, results from this pilot study suggest that the VPI appears to have sound psychometric properties. Additionally, this measure will fill an important gap in the assessment of Veterans in both clinical and research settings.M.S., Psychology -- Drexel University, 201
Social Problem Solving as a Moderator of Moral Injury and Suicidal Behaviors in Combat Veterans
No full textThe rise in suicide risk among military service members and veterans, specifically those involved in the recent Middle East conflicts, is increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern. In response to these trends, empirical investigation into specific factors that contribute to suicidal behaviors within this demographic remain imperative. Within military populations, both moral injury (MI) and social problem-solving (SPS) abilities have been independently linked to suicidality. To date, no research has investigated the relationship between MI and SPS, or how they interact to affect suicidal behaviors. The present study aimed to replicate previous findings related to MI/SPS and suicidal behaviors, in addition to determining whether SPS moderates the relationship between MI and current suicide ideation. A sample of 200 combat veterans completed an online survey that included a demographics questionnaire and the following validated self-report measures: Moral Injury Questionnaire-Military Version, Social Problem-Solving Inventory-Short Form, Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation, and Posttraumatic Checklist for DSM-5. As expected, MI and SPS were both found to be significantly associated with current suicide ideation. Also, as predicted, the results suggest the moderating role of SPS between moral injury and current suicide ideation. When participants reported high levels of moral injury, "effective problem solvers" (i.e., +1 SD above sample mean), experienced significantly lower levels of suicide ideation compared to their “ineffective problem solver” counterparts. Currently, there are few evidence-based treatments that have been shown to be effective in targeting the symptoms of moral injury to decrease suicide risk. The findings of this study demonstrate the potential importance of adaptive social problem-solving abilities in decreasing suicidal behaviors in individuals with moral injury and provides the preliminary rationale for utilizing an Emotion-Centered Problem-Solving Therapy (EC-PST) treatment approach. Future research that evaluates the efficacy of EC-PST, which focuses on adaptive social problem-solving and emotional regulatory skill building, could provide evidence for the use of this intervention in veterans with moral injury at increased risk for suicide.M.S., Psychology -- Drexel University, 201
An Examination of Executive Coaches' Use of Creativity in Their Coaching Practice: A Mixed Methods Study
No full textExecutive coaching has become a key strategy for organizations seeking to develop their leaders. Executive coaches who are aware of their creative strengths are positioned to rapidly respond to emerging issues taking place in coaching conversations, and thereby serve the needs of their clients. Limited research is available examining executive coaches and their use of creativity in their coaching practice. This dissertation examined the existing literature through a conceptual framework encompassing three streams of theory, research and practice: (a) bringing awareness to one’s creative strengths; (b) the coach/client relationship; and (c) creative tools and methods. This research assessed how executive coaches recognize their own creativity as measured by the Reisman Diagnostic Creativity Assessment instrument, as well as through participant self-report to identify the creative tools and strategies they used in their practice. Additionally, the research analyzed their best practices as shared by study participants. This was a mixed methods study, which surveyed adults in the United States who are members of the International Coach Federation (ICF) and who have agreed to participate in ICF-supported research that advances the coaching industry. Key findings of this study examined differences between creativity and demographic factors, as well as executive coaches’ awareness of their own creativity and application of creative tools and best practices. Implications and recommendations for future creativity research are discussed.Ed.D., Educational Leadership and Management -- Drexel University, 201
How participation in a learning difference program in an independent school affects students' academic and emotional progress and definition of success
No full textHow participation in a learning difference program in an independent school affects students' academic and emotional progress and definition of success This study examined the functionality of learning difference programs in secondary independent schools, as well as ways to improve this programming for students with learning differences, and help these students define success. This study was designed to explore if programming for students with learning differences needs to exist in all secondary independent schools, and if so, how a program can be designed through the review of an existing program. Through individual interviews with students, the researcher determined whether or not learning in a supported environment is beneficial or harmful to a student's perception of their own success, as well as exploring the phenomena of the students' experiences. The researcher developed an understanding if academic data changes over time, and if students feel as though their program is helpful to them. Through an examination of student development, program development, and teacher development, the researcher determined what effect supporting students with learning differences has on their understanding of success. This phenomenological study looks to serve as a blueprint for future program development for secondary independent schools. This phenomenological study explored the results of individual interviews, providing a voice to student's experiences in order to address whether participating in a learning difference program is a positive or negative experience for a student. These findings can assist future studies, and build the possibility of evaluation of other learning difference programs in secondary independent schools.Ed.D., Education -- Drexel University, 201
Low-Latency Image Fusion Implementation using FPGA
Get PDFImage fusion is useful for obtaining multiple input from the camera and may enhance details of a given scene. For example, a regular RGB combined with heat vision may allow a visual example of the scene's heat, or widen the the view, i.e., the panorama view or similar to that of a human's visual field. In current applications, image fusion is not done in real time. Users would have to wait for a period of time before the images are combined together. This project uses a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) to present image fusion with low latency of about 17 ms, which is not noticeable by the human eye.The paper also presents novel approaches to minimizing hardware usage and effectively uses Vivado's architecture to communicate with the processor to fuse two 1080p videos. The result of the program produces a ghosting effect on the output result because of the lack of homography transformation and noise coming from the webcam frame-to-frame.M.S., Computer Engineering -- Drexel University, 201