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An Effective Genetic Algorithm for Mixed Precision
Get PDFThe precision of floating-point numbers is a critical task in high-performance computing. Many scientific applications rely on floating-point arithmetic, but excessive precision can lead to unnecessary computational overhead. Reducing precision may introduce unacceptable errors. Addressing this trade-off is essential for optimizing performance while ensuring numerical accuracy. In this paper, we present a genetic algorithm-based approach for tuning the precision of floating-point computations. Our method leverages algorithmic differentiation and first-order Taylor series approximation to assess the impact of precision variations efficiently. We employ stochastic partitioning algorithms with multiple precision combinations that meet the error requirements. Moreover, we present a genetic heuristic algorithm to determine the maximum number of variables that can sustain precision alterations without compromising the desired error threshold. The proposed approach is evaluated across various benchmark programs, analyzing the effects of precision tuning under increasing error thresholds. Our findings reveal that, for a majority of these programs, reducing precision through partitioning leads to significant performance enhancements, with improvements of up to 15%
Form Follows Function: An Analysis of De Architectura and its Influence
Get PDFOver 2000 years ago, the Roman architect and engineer, Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, scribed De Architectura, a multi-volume work unearthed in the 15th century, in St. Gallen, Switzerland. As the only surviving architectural source from antiquity, the book has been indispensable in the study of Greco-Roman architecture, positioning Vitruvian and Greco-Roman architectural concepts in many ways as one in the same. Additionally, Vitruvian ideas, as expressed in De Architectura, regarding architectural form, materials, location, and process have been foundational to the evolution of Western architecture. This paper explores De Architectura’s impact on Western architectural theory and practice spanning the Early Middle Ages to present day. In particular, the ensuing pages detail the influence of De Architectura on the distinct architectural styles of the Renaissance; Industrial Revolution, Bauhaus Movement; and Post World War II Modernism. This paper concludes by highlighting the ways in which Vitruvian ideas have inspired modern, sustainable architectural practices, better positioning humanity to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Part of the panel: Stories in Stone to Script Moderator: Professor Loren Spielma
History in the Margins: Analysis of How the Language in U.S. History Textbooks Used in Portland Public Schools Marginalizes the History, Contributions, and Voices of People of Color
No full textThis research paper investigates the language and framework utilized in U.S. history textbooks approved by Portland Public Schools (PPS) and its implications for the representation of people of color. With specific reference to the guidelines set by the Oregon Department of Education, the study explores the extent to which these textbooks reflect the ethnic and racial identities of marginalized groups. The analysis reveals that textbooks often perpetuate narratives of progress that obscure the realities of racial injustice, employing language and structural choices that reinforce white dominance in historical narratives. Historical trends are identified in textbook narratives that prioritize white perspectives while sidelining the experiences and contributions of people of color. The analytical approach used is a Critical Race Discourse Analysis (CRDA) based framework, which combines Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) with Critical Race Theory (CRT) to critically examine excerpts from selected textbooks, focusing on how the absence, separation, judgement, and use of nominalization or passive voice surrounding the history of people of color portrays people of color and fits within broader narratives. This research underscores the need for more inclusive and accurate representations of diverse histories in educational materials to promote a more equitable learning environment
Bans Against Book Bans: State Legislation Fighting Against Censorship
Get PDFThis research evaluates three of the eight states that passed legislation in 2023 and 2024 to limit the ability to ban books in their states. Using three states as case studies and analyzing the bill documents and news articles covering the legislation, I evaluated the conversations occurring in our local governments about book banning in the US. While many of these bills argue that book bans should not exist solely based on “partisan or doctrinal beliefs,” the issue is intrinsically tied to those beliefs. Democrats struggle to protect diverse voices of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities; Republicans fight to remove sexually explicit and age-inappropriate material from schools and keep local control over library materials. Local and school libraries and librarians, whose livelihoods are being weaponized for each side\u27s gain, are caught in the middle of this debate as their funding and legal protections are being legislated
A Capstone Review: Bi-Lateral Growth of Outdoor and Business Skills
Get PDFThis paper explores the development of my leadership skills through the Portland State University School of Business and the Portland State University Outdoor Program. Drawing from my four years as a trip leader and equipment rental center coordinator and my capstone experience with Team Flamingos, the cross-disciplinary business team I was a part of, I examine how both of these experiences have shaped and grown my skills as a leader. In this paper, I analyze leadership competencies such as communication, decision-making, adaptability, and self-awareness, through the National Outdoor Leadership School\u27s 4-7-1 Leadership Model. This model acts as a framework to illustrate how these skills are expressed and refined in both business and outdoor settings. I also analyze the final recommendations that my capstone team and I presented to our business partner to showcase the successful application of leadership skills in use within a business context. Finally, I reflect on how my leadership skills will further develop and aid me in my next chapter of life, which is a graduate program in Leadership for Sustainability Education at Portland State, as well as a new professional role within the Outdoor Program. Ultimately, this paper argues that leadership is a cross-disciplinary skill that is most powerful when it is shaped by a diverse set of experiences that are mutually reinforcing
Rising Tides Lift All Boats: Significant Disproportionate Identification of Latine Students in the Eligibility Category of Specific Learning Disability
Get PDFThe study explored the complex problem of practice (POP) of significant disproportionate identification of Latine multilingual learner (ML) students in the special education eligibility category of specific learning disability (SLD). The study employed improvement science as its methodological framework. Integral partners and a leadership team from a rural Oregon district reviewed the literature and used a root cause analysis to identify six causes behind these outcomes. Iterative plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycles test with concise data collection, enabling real-time adjustments and improvements within the improvement cycle was used to implement two change ideas. These prioritized change ideas resulted in the implementation of evidence-based practices for MLs within Tier 1 English language development (ELD) and data-based decision making within Tier 1 teaming structures using culturally and linguistically aligned processes. Each improvement cycle aimed to reduce potential areas of bias in the general education to special education process for a Latine ML student and increase access to culturally and linguistically aligned grade level standards and expectations. The research was situated within the broader context of the disproportionate representation of Latine students in SLD in Oregon and across the United States, and improvement efforts can be used as a model for other Oregon districts that aim to make similar changes
Consumer Choice and Indoor Air Quality
Get PDFOutdoor air pollution has drastically improved for everyone since the passage of the clean air act. However, indoor air quality is not monitored or enforceable in the United States. Yet, the EPA estimates that people of developed nations spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. Candles, a common ambiance setting choice for many household consumers, have been well characterized as a source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs can have a wide variety of negative effects on human health. A benchtop and pilot scale study were used to characterize the difference in the accumulation and displacement of total volatile organic compound (TVOC) concentrations from candles commercially available at different price points. The higher priced unscented candles produced lower steady state TVOC concentrations compared to lower priced unscented candles. Conversely, scented candles purchased at the higher price point accumulated volatile organic compounds at an order of magnitude higher than those of similar scent obtained at a lower cost. Batch studies using solid, room temperature wax for each candle revealed the higher priced scented candle average TVOC approached 15 ppm compared to ~1 ppm for the lower priced candles. Overall, unscented candles had the lowest accumulation of organic compounds when compared to scented candles of the same make. This suggests that the additives used to create fragrances contribute to the concentrations of VOCs impacting indoor air quality. This is one way that consumers\u27 choice and product labeling may serve to improve indoor air quality
Fancy Mice
Get PDFIn this proof-of-concept screenplay, a family becomes the subject of an isolating experiment that observes their behavior changes after remaining in their home for an extended period of time with all their basic needs met. The first twenty-pages of this psychological horror lays the foundation for a larger work that explores existential themes related to purpose, competition, and play
How Did I Get Here? A Capstone Review
Get PDFIn this thesis, I highlight my personal and professional growth as a college student. I use structured reflection and meta-analysis to uncover insights about how I learn and develop new skills. Over the past five years, I have built a toolbox of skills, including teamwork, public speaking, navigating uncertainty, strategic thinking, and leadership. I trace the development of each of these skills back to my coursework as a business student, my role in PSU\u27s student-run advertising agency, and my professional experience. I show how these skills culminated in my business capstone project. My communication and leadership skills allowed me to serve my team by stepping into a role as a facilitator. However, the fear of overstepping my authority prevented me from proactively establishing a stronger team dynamic and pressing the client for greater clarity on deliverables. My public speaking skills helped my team communicate our strategic recommendations effectively and back them up with research. My experience navigating uncertainty and thinking strategically helped us uncover underlying business problems and make valuable suggestions. By systematically reflecting on my influences, I highlight pivotal moments of learning and transformation. I adopt a metacognitive approach revealing patterns in how I learn new skills. This process highlights how discomfort and uncertainty become catalysts for growth; I learn by oscillating between structured theory, safe experimentation, and high-stakes stress testing; I use mentoring as a tool to reinforce my own learning; and I am constantly looking for ways to bolster the skills I am weakest at. Ultimately, this thesis demonstrates my strengths and identifies areas where further growth is needed. This project has made me aware that I must learn to manage action bias and balance generalized development with specialization. Taking the opportunity to reflect on my academic journey has given me greater clarity on my professional ambitions. I have concluded that my skills and instincts align strongly with a future career in consulting.
By systematically reflecting on my influences, I highlight pivotal moments of learning and transformation. I adopt a metacognitive approach emphasizing how discomfort and uncertainty became catalysts for growth. Meta-analysis reveals that I learn by oscillating between structured theory, safe experimentation, and high-stakes stress testing. I use mentoring as a tool to reinforce my own learning, and I am constantly looking for ways to bolster the skills I am weakest at.
Ultimately, this paper demonstrates my strengths and identifies areas where further growth is needed. This project has made me aware that I must learn to manage action bias and balance generalized development with specialization. Taking the opportunity to reflect on my academic journey has given me greater clarity on my professional ambitions. I have concluded that my skills and instincts align strongly with a future career in consulting