Psy. D., Antioch University, 2016, Antioch New England: Clinical Psychology

This manuscript describes an exploratory study that assessed whether play with typically developing peers increased the use of symbolic play in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A version of a sandplay intervention previously investigated by Lu, Petersen, Lacroix, and Rousseau (2010), and modified to include peer-mediated play was used. The intervention explored the effects of sandplay with typically developing peers on engagement in symbolic play by children with ASD. A multiple-case intervention design was used with three children with ASD with varying degrees of severity in functioning. While use of symbolic play by two of the children did increase from baseline with the introduction of the peer-mediated sandplay intervention, these effects were inconsistent. Furthermore, only one of the children demonstrated a continued increase in symbolic play at the follow-up phase. While the results of the intervention are inconclusive, these results necessitate further investigation into this method of intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder, specifically in regard to ASD severity. Theoretical and treatment implications are offered, as well as directions for future research.

Doctor of Philosophy, The Ohio State University, 2024, Nuclear Engineering

Acquiring accurate neutron energy spectrum information is of vital importance to national security as well as personal safety. Unfolding neutron energy spectra from detector responses is a heavily researched area due to the importance of neutron energy for determining radiation dose received. A new detection system developed by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), the passive neutron spectrometer (PNS), is being investigated for use in energy spectrum unfolding techniques primarily in the event of a criticality accident. The unfolded energy spectrum is used to calculate the dose a person would receive in the presence of that neutron field. This detector provides a passive neutron detection method through the use of 55 thermoluminescent dosimeters or gold foils contained within a single polyethylene sphere. Three unfolding algorithms were employed in this research: MAXED, a well-established unfolding code; Neutron Energy Spectrum Reconstruction (NESR), a code developed in-house at LLNL; and a neural network technique was developed and utilized. Through the use of calculated detector responses and each of the unfolding algorithms, the PNS is first verified that it provides the information needed for unfolding neutron spectra. After verifying the PNS, multiple experimental PNS detector responses were unfolded and the expected dose was calculated. Where available, the calculated dose was compared to the expected dose to determine if the unfolding techniques were able to meet the DoE standards, which state that unfolded doses should be within 30% of each other.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Bowling Green State University, 2022, Mathematics

The spectral radius formula is a well known way that the norms of powers of a Banach algebra element give information about its spectrum, giving the radius of the smallest closed disc in the complex plane centered at the origin containing the spectrum. This dissertation explores what beyond the spectral radius formula the norms of powers say about the spectrum. We also consider the information about the joint spectrum of several elements in a commutative Banach algebra contained in the norms of products of powers of the elements. A condition on the norms of powers of a single Banach algebra element for the spectrum to necessarily contain the origin is presented. As a generalization of this result, we find the maximum possible inner radius for the smallest annulus centered at the origin containing the spectrum of a Banach algebra element, given the norms of powers of the element. The results on the joint spectrum of several commutative Banach algebra elements begin with a generalization of the spectral radius formula, giving the smallest polynomially convex circled set containing the joint spectrum. Additionally, we present a several variable analogue to the one variable result on annuli, in that we find the largest rationally convex connected circled set that must be contained in the smallest rationally convex connected circled set containing the joint spectrum of several elements in a commutative Banach algebra, given the norms of products of powers of the elements.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Wright State University, 2019, Electrical Engineering

Signal detection, parameter estimation and modulation classification are widely applied to many areas and plays a very important role in civilian and military, such as bio-science, criminal psychology, communication engineering, radar system, electronic warfare and so on. In the civilian field, with the increasing number of wireless electronic devices and higher transmission data rate demand, the problem of spectrum congestion becomes more and more highlighted and urgent. In recent years, wireless industry has shown great interest in Cognitive Radio (CR) and Dynamic Spectrum Access (DSA) network, whose primary function is to use limited frequency bands to transmit own signals without any interference with other primary users. Hence, the accuracy of signal detection and parameters estimation are particularly important and can provide reliable communication performance for cognitive radio users. In the military field, electronic warfare is crucial important part in modern war, such as own signal needs to be hidden, securely transmitted and received, enemy's signals need to be identified, located and jammed. Thus, in such a non-cooperative environment, signal detection, parameter estimation and modulation classification technologies become more and more important and challenging. In the past few decades, several signal detection methods have been proposed, such as energy-based detection, matched filter-based detection and cyclostationary feature based detection. Energy based detection is simple to implement, but poorly performing at low SNR. Although the matched filter-based detection is the optimal detector, it needs to accurately know the prior information of the detected signal. Hence, matched filter-based detection is impractical to implement in real environment, such as non-cooperative environment. Cyclostationary feature based signal detection has high computational complexity, but it can be used for high-precision signal detection in low SNR environments. In rec (open full item for complete abstract)

Doctor of Philosophy, Case Western Reserve University, 2018, Epidemiology and Biostatistics

Antibiotic resistance is a public health crisis. Infections caused by antibiotic resistant bacteria lead to over 2.5 million infections and 23,000 deaths annually in the United States (US). Non-judicious use of antibiotics can accelerate what should be avoidable selective pressure, accelerating the evolution of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Although any antibiotic exposure, whether appropriate or not, may contribute to the selection of antibiotic resistant bacteria, failure to follow clinical prescribing guidelines make the problem worse. In American Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) up to 75% of antibiotic prescriptions do not meet these guidelines. Antibiotic stewardship, which seeks to minimize inappropriate or unnecessary antibiotic use, is one solution to combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Antibiotic stewardship is urgently needed in LTCFs to improve resident outcomes and to reduce selection for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Driven by both the increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and recent federal mandate from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, LTCFs across the US are rapidly implementing antibiotic stewardship programs (ASPs). ASPs are coordinated approaches for harmonizing competing concerns of adequate spectrum of coverage, adverse events, and resistance. The CMS mandate will be enforced through a range of sanctions ranging from civil fines to closure of the facility. To date, LTCFs have been slow to adopt stewardship measures. Studies of US LTCFs are limited and there is also a paucity of well-validated strategies specific to these healthcare settings. Despite emerging evidence of successful stewardship in a selection of US LTCF settings, adoption may be bottlenecked due to personnel who may lack training or experience in data collection and analysis, funding or logistical constraints, prescriber's decision-making autonomy, or few electronic resources. The objective of this dissertation is to examine the patt (open full item for complete abstract)

Bachelor of Science, Walsh University, 2018, Honors

The purpose of the current research was to explore the effects of Therapeutic Horseback Riding (THR) on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Two case studies were completed on two boys who have been diagnosed with autism, age 13 and 16, who were recruited for their participation in the study by instructors at a therapeutic riding equestrian facility. Each participant has been enrolled in the THR program since 2010, and the records that had been kept documenting their progress in the program were obtained and analyzed by the researcher, in addition to session observations, and parent interviews. Results showed documented progress in psychosocial, communication, sensory, cognitive, and neuromusculoskeletal skills through documented evaluations completed annually by the instructors at the riding facility. Additionally, parent interviews revealed thorough enjoyment from the program, increased social engagement and interaction, core strength, posture, balance, awareness of surroundings, coordination, motor planning, postural control, and relaxation techniques. This demonstrates the efficacy of the use of Therapeutic Horseback Riding as a treatment Intervention for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Doctor of Philosophy, The Ohio State University, 2017, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Many studies show that the 5.9 GHz Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC) band with 75 MHz bandwidth is not sufficient to ensure reliable transmission of safety messages for the upcoming intelligent transportation systems. Moreover, the so-called vehicular spectrum scarcity problem is becoming severer in the DSRC band due to the rapid growth of wireless traffic demands in vehicular networks. Meanwhile, many frequency bands allocated to existing RF systems are largely underutilized. Since few new spectrum resources are available for vehicular communications, a potential solution to the spectrum scarcity problem in the DSRC band is to unload portion of the wireless traffic from the DSRC band to the other underutilized bands through spectrum sharing. The most fundamental requirement of the spectrum sharing approach is the protection of legacy users of the underutilized bands. In addition, a novel design of medium access control (MAC) protocols is required because few existing wireless MAC protocols support spectrum sharing functionality. This dissertation is focused on the resource allocation algorithm development and MAC protocol design to enable spectrum sharing between vehicular networks and other RF systems. Firstly, we study the sharing of the 54 MHz - 698 MHz TV White Space (TVWS) band between vehicular networks and licensed users of the band. The TVWS band has been officially released by FCC for cognitive access, and all existing wireless systems are allowed to access the band on condition that they must conform to FCC regulations on protection of legacy TVWS users. In this work, the channel allocation problem in the cognitive vehicular network is formulated as a nonlinear integer programming problem, to which three efficient approximation algorithms are developed. Secondly, we study the coexistence of vehicular networks and other unlicensed wireless networks in the TVWS band. The motivation of this study is that, multiple heterogeneous wireless networks (open full item for complete abstract)

Master of Arts, The Ohio State University, 2016, Speech Language Pathology

Word learning requires the ability to integrate auditory information (e.g., an object's name—the label) and visual information (e.g., an object itself—the referent). Previous research has shown that children with typical development preferentially weight auditory information when auditory-visual stimuli is placed into conflict and that this weighting is advantageous for word learning. Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are described as visual learners; however, no comparable test has been administered to children with ASD. The purpose of this study is to determine whether children with ASD follow the same pattern of information processing as children who are typically developing. In the present study, four children with ASD and four typically-developing (TD) children matched to the children with ASD on the basis of receptive language abilities were tested on a computerized preferential looking task. During the computerized task, the children were presented with auditory-visual stimuli on a television screen and trained to look for an auditory-visual “prize” that appeared in specific locations corresponding with the stimulus presented. The children's eye gazes were recorded and coded frame-by-frame. Given the evidence of children with ASD's relative strength in visual processing, it was predicted that the children with ASD would differ from their receptive-vocabulary mates and give greater weight to the visual component of auditory-visual stimuli. Study findings did not support this prediction; the majority of participants with typical development weighted visual information, while participants with ASD demonstrated no stimulus preference as a group. These findings call into question the commonly held assumption that all children with ASD are “visual learners.” Additionally, the cognitive and linguistic profiles of the participants with ASD (determined via scores on standardized assessments of cognition and language) revealed that stronger cognitive (open full item for complete abstract)

Doctor of Philosophy, The Ohio State University, 2014, Psychology

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are more prevalent in males than in females, at an estimated rate of 5:1. Consequently, women and girls were neglected from much of the early ASD research. Recently, there has been an increased focus on how ASD affects females in symptom presentation and in social and emotional functioning. Some recent studies suggest that while females with high functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFASD) may present with better observable social skills than males with HFASD, they may experience more problems in developing appropriate peer relationships. Understanding gender differences in the typically developing (TD) population is an important aspect of understanding this relationship among individuals with HFASD. In general, females place more emphasis on emotional intimacy, while males place more emphasis on interest-based relationships, which could impact the ability of women with HFASD to maintain relationships with TD peers. The current study examined gender differences in ASD symptoms, social relationships, loneliness and emotions in 56 adults diagnosed with HFASD and 56 TD adults. Participants with HFASD included 28 women and 28 men with a previous diagnosis of an ASD, who did not differ on age, ethnicity, education level, or cognitive ability. The TD participants included 28 women and 28 men who did not differ from participants with HFASD on age, ethnicity, or education level. Individuals with HFASD participated in two researcher administered assessments, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence – Second Edition (WASI-II). Both HFASD and TD participants completed the following self-report questionnaires: A Demographic Questionnaire, the Autism Spectrum Quotient, the Cambridge Friendship Questionnaire, the UCLA Loneliness Scale: Version 3, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule), and a Friendship Activity Report, which was designed for the study to determine the natur (open full item for complete abstract)

PhD, University of Cincinnati, 2009, Engineering : Computer Science and Engineering

In a cognitive radio network (CRN), bands of a spectrum are shared by licensed (primary) and unlicensed (secondary) users in that preferential order. It is generally recognized that the spectral occupancy by primary users exhibit dynamical spatial and temporal properties. In the open literature, there exist no accurate time-varying model representing the spectrum occupancy that the wireless researchers could employ for evaluating new algorithms and techniques designed for dynamic spectrum access (DSA). We use statistical characteristics from actual radio frequency measurements, obtain first- and second-order parameters, and define a statistical spectrum occupancy model based on a combination of several different probability density functions (PDFs). One of the fundamental issues in analyzing spectrum occupancy is to characterize it in terms of probabilities and study probabilistic distributions over the spectrum. To reduce computational complexity of the exact distribution of total number of free bands, we resort to efficient approximation techniques. Furthermore, we characterize free bands into five different types based on the occupancy of its adjacent bands. The probability distribution of total number of each type of bands is therefore determined. Two corresponding algorithms are effectively developed to compute the distributions, and our extensive simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed analytical model. Design of an efficient spectrum sensing scheme is a challenging task, especially when false alarms and misdetections are present. The status of the band is to be monitored over a number of consecutive time periods, with each time period being of a specific time interval. The status of the sub-band at any time point is either free or busy. We proved that the status of the band over time evolves randomly, following a Markov chain. The cognitive radio assesses the band, whether or not it is free, and the assessment is prone to errors. The errors (open full item for complete abstract)

Master of Arts, The Ohio State University, 2012, Psychology

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are characterized by deficits in social skills and communication and the presence of repetitive behaviors or a restricted range of interests. The difficulties individuals with ASDs experience with social interactions persist into adulthood. Although little is known about depression in adults with ASDs, it is generally accepted that adults with ASDs experience depression at least as often as adults in the general population. Social self-efficacy refers to an individual's belief that he is capable of initiating and maintaining social contact. In the general population a robust negative correlation has consistently been found between social self-efficacy and depression symptoms. The current study investigated the relation between social self-efficacy and symptoms of depression in adults with ASDs. Self-report data was collected on 53 adults with ASDs. Subjects completed questionnaires assessing symptoms of autism and depression, as well as social skills, social self-efficacy and impression management. Partial support was found for a negative correlation between social self-efficacy and depression symptoms. As expected, one measure of depression symptoms correlated positively with a measure of ASD symptoms, however another measure did not. Although social self-efficacy was unrelated to educational achievement, it was positively correlated with self-rated social skills. Additionally, there was no evidence that efforts towards impression management impacted self-rated ASD symptoms. Considering these findings, it appears that the relation between social self-efficacy and depression symptoms in adults with ASDs is not straightforward. Further research is needed to clarify this relation.

Master of Science (MS), Ohio University, 2006, Electrical Engineering & Computer Science (Engineering and Technology)

In this research, a DS-CDMA system with QPSK modulation and multiuser interference is analyzed and simulated. We investigate the BER performance for disparate data and chip rates on the I- and Q- channels for synchronous and asynchronous transmission using both orthogonal and random codes. Comparisons are made concerning the performance of the system in AWGN and Rayleigh fading channels. Power spectra for various cases are analyzed and the results show that we obtain moderate spectrum shaping and reduction in side lobes for some parameter sets. This thesis shows through using theoretical analysis and computer simulations that synchronous and asynchronous transmissions with random codes have similar performance. Our results also show that the BER is a function of the number of interfering users and processing gain, and that our disparate chip and data rate scheme presents another effective option for multi-rate transmission.

Master of Science (MS), Ohio University, 2013, Electrical Engineering (Engineering and Technology)

This research work presents a method for the detection of road lane markers which is least affected by non-uniform surface illumination (shadow) and road shapes. The algorithm processes an image by two different approaches namely Gradient Spectrum Matching (GSM) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and selects the most optimal point on each horizontal scan line using the Least Square (LS) error criterion. The Fourier transform over the local window at each lane markers produces local characteristics features which are used to distinguish the lane markers as left and right. The PCA is employed to determine the direction of the lane markers within the local window with respect to direction of motion. The Auto Regressive Moving Average (ARMA) model based Yule-Walker regression is deployed to predict the direction of lane markers. The transformation from RGB (Red, Green, Blue) to HSV (Hue, Saturation, Value) color space has enabled the system to overcome the effect of non-uniform illumination. The accuracy and precision of the proposed mode are presented and compared with method existing in the literature.

Ph.D., Antioch University, 2025, Antioch Seattle: Counselor Education & Supervision

A qualitative research study focused on Autistic adults explored the lived experiences of trauma. Participants included Autistic adults who have either been professionally diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or who self-identify as Autistic. Data was collected through a survey with 12 open-ended questions. A thematic analysis revealed six themes: (a) adverse childhood experiences, (b) exposure to violence and loss, (c) difficulty relating to others, (d) complex mind and sensory experiences, (e) medical and mental health challenges, and (f) autistic identity. The themes revealed instances of Autistic people experiencing trauma in ways that differ and vary in clinical presentation from their neurotypical counterparts. Implications and recommendations for professional counseling and counselor education are discussed based on these findings. This dissertation is available in open access at AURA (https://aura.antioch.edu) and OhioLINK ETD Center (https://etd.ohiolink.edu).

Master of Science, The Ohio State University, 1950, Graduate School

Master of Science, The Ohio State University, 1967, Graduate School

Master of Science, The Ohio State University, 1961, Graduate School

Master of Arts, The Ohio State University, 1913, Graduate School

Master of Science, Miami University, 2024, Biology

Recent studies show root trait plasticity within species, suggesting differences in root response to ecosystem heterogeneity. The multi-axis root economic spectrum framework (RES) proposes that most root trait variation is explained by phylogeny and ecosystem conditions. We evaluated architecture and morphology in tree species in a long term, nitrogen (N) x phosphorus (P) fertilization study. Root traits differed between taxa and responded to nutrient addition. Red maple roots were less branched, produced fewer tips, and were thicker than roots of the species beech and birch. In both taxa, branching density, total root tips, average diameter, and the root length fraction in the 0-0.25 mm diameter class were lower in response to P. Most of these effects were reversed in response to N+P. Our findings show these species shift root growth to acquisitive traits when P limitations is alleviated but become conservative in response to N+P. This highlights the need to consider whether root growth is single or co-limited in ecosystems due to different effects of N x P interaction on root traits. We must continue refining the multi-axis RES framework to better account for within species plasticity in response to ecosystem conditions.

Master of Arts, The Ohio State University, 2024, Educational Studies

A subset of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have limited or no functional communication skills and need augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to meet their communication needs. One evidence-based form of AAC, Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), involves a child exchanging picture icons with a communication partner for desired items. In this study, I aimed to replicate the effects of PECS in prior studies by using a multiple baseline across behaviors design to examine the effects of PECS on communicative exchanges for a 3.5-year-old boy on the autism spectrum. Basic effects were detected for two behaviors but not the third, and therefore a functional relation was not established. An effect might have been detected for the third behavior had I measured total communication and not only PECS exchanges. The child's parent found PECS to be effective and beneficial for her child. This study highlights the importance of focusing on multimodal communication systems that are dynamic and flexible.