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Title: A comparison of a web-based and a traditional face-to-face off season training program for Division.
Creator: Spencer, Ashley Cecil
Abstract / Description: Objective; To examine two methods for implementing summer off season training programs for college softball players. Design: Non equivalent pre test - post test Setting: On and Off Campus training facilities. Subjects: A non probability convenience sample of 25 subjects was assigned to two groups and one control group. The exclusion criteria were: injury and athletes under the age of eighteen. Interventions: Group W.B. was made up of players who were away from campus during the break; this...
Show moreObjective; To examine two methods for implementing summer off season training programs for college softball players. Design: Non equivalent pre test - post test Setting: On and Off Campus training facilities. Subjects: A non probability convenience sample of 25 subjects was assigned to two groups and one control group. The exclusion criteria were: injury and athletes under the age of eighteen. Interventions: Group W.B. was made up of players who were away from campus during the break; this group participated in a web-based summer off season training program. Group F. F. included the athletes who remained locally or on campus and participated in a more traditional face-to-face summer off season training program. Group 3 were the athletes that participated in the testing, but did not complete the 12 week summer program (Control Group). Main outcome measure: 1 RM bench press and back squat were used to assess muscular strength. The vertical jump, 1 RM hang clean and push press were used to assess power. The one minute sit-ups and push-ups were used to assess muscular endurance. The T -test and 20 yard agility drill measured agility.The 20 and 60 yard sprint were used to measure speed. Flexibility was measured· with the sit and reach. The two-site skin folds were used for body composition. Anaerobic and aerobic capacity was measured with the 300 Yard Shuttle and 1.5 mile run, respectively. The following anthropometry measurements were also taken: weight, height, and resting heart rate. Results: Given the small sample size and large number of variables, the analysis (MANOVA) was not statistically significant. Therefore, descriptive statistics (crosstabs/frequency counts) were analyzed. When comparing the descriptive statistics the hypothesis that there would be a larger increase in the face-to-face group was only supported for the muscular performance tests. Conclusions: The utilization of the internet appeared to be a useful tool in the delivery of summer training programs. Future research should expand this study to larger samples and other sports or a study on delivery methods of home exercise programs.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0454
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A noninvasive method to collect Florida panther hairs for DNA analysis.
Creator: Cole-Corde, Aleczandre Nikoluas
Abstract / Description: The major goal of this study was to investigate whether hair could be collected by hair snares attached to scent posts from free-ranging Florida panthers (Puma concolor coryi) to determine species identity using DNA analyses of the hair samples. The five phases of the study are summarized below. For Phase 1, methods were developed and tested on captive animals with the intention of transitioning the effective methods to the field. In Component 1 of Phase 1, scent preferences of captive...
Show moreThe major goal of this study was to investigate whether hair could be collected by hair snares attached to scent posts from free-ranging Florida panthers (Puma concolor coryi) to determine species identity using DNA analyses of the hair samples. The five phases of the study are summarized below. For Phase 1, methods were developed and tested on captive animals with the intention of transitioning the effective methods to the field. In Component 1 of Phase 1, scent preferences of captive Western cougars (Puma concolor stanleyana) were established in the Naples Zoo (Naples, Florida) where the cougars' reactions to various scents could be monitored closely. Four of26 tested scents attracted captive cougars in an initial pilot study. In 30 experimental trials, Bag Balm and Beaver Lure with Catnip were identified as the two most attractive scents stimulating rubbing response rates of93% and 67% respectively. In Component 2 of Phase 1, hair snares effective for collecting hair for DNA analysis were developed using captive Western cougars as test subjects in the Naples Zoo where behavioral interactions to snares associated with scent stations could be observed closely. Three types of hair snares were tested; a circular wire cup brush, a three-ring curry comb and a rectangle wire brush. The circular wire cup, most effective at capturing and retaining cougar hairs, collected 600 hairs, 75 of them with follicles attached. For Phase 2, scent stations (i.e., posts equipped with scent attractants and circular wire cup snares) based on prototypes developed at the Naples Zoo, were field tested on free-ranging Florida panthers in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge (FPNWR) (Collier County Florida). A total of 72 hairs were collected from 12 scent stations in two separate trials. Scent stations were monitored with trip-motion 35 mm cameras. A total of 10 photographs documented free-ranging Florida panthers in the vicinity of scent stations and only one photograph recorded a panther directly interacting with a scent station. For Phase 3, hairs collected were analyzed in the lab. In Component 1 of Phase 3, hairs collected in hair snares in the FPNWR were visually examined for species identification. Twelve of 72 hairs were identified as black bear (Ursus americanus) and the species identity of the remaining 60 hairs was ambiguous. In Component 2 of Phase 3, hair collected at both the Naples Zoo and the FPNWR were analyzed to determine whether species identity could be confirmed using DNA analyses. A 215bp fragment of the 12S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) was amplified in 47 of 137 (34%) captive Western cougar hairs and in 20 of 60 hairs collected in the FPNWR. Sequences were obtained from four of the amplification products from captive Western cougar hairs, and as expected, all were identified as Puma concolor. Sequence data were successfully obtained from 20 hairs collected in the FPNWR; 17 hairs were identified as Puma concolor, one hair was identified as Ursus americanus, one hair was identified as Homo sapiens likely due to researcher contamination, and species identity in one hair was inconclusive due to insufficient DNA for identification. The 17 hairs identified as Puma concolor were independent sampling events collected from seven different scent stations on nine different collection dates. Based on the results of this study, scent stations equipped with the appropriate scents and hair snares can be used to collect hair with sufficient DNA from free-ranging and highly secretive Florida panthers under field conditions to obtain species identifications using DNA analyses. These are the first steps towards successfully amplifying nuclear DNA (e.g., as microsatellite DNA) and genetic identification of individual free-ranging Florida panthers. DNA was successfully extracted and fragments up to 215bp were amplified from hairs collected under field conditions in Florida. Thus, with some slight modifications, this inexpensive method may be used as a valuable addition or even an alternative to the invasive methods that wildlife managers currently undertake to collect genetic information from free-ranging panthers in Florida as well as other felid species from around the world.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0485
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Acute Response of the Estuarine Crab Eurypanopeus Depressus to Salinity and Desiccation Stress.
Creator: Van Horn, Julie
Abstract / Description: An understanding of how organisms survive in oyster-reef habitat gives clues as to how they will respond to watershed alterations caused by humans. All estuarine environments experience natural salinity fluctuations, but anthropogenic activities have seriously altered salinity regimes in many areas. The changing tide in the shallow environment of the oyster reef means inhabitants risk exposure and desiccation, yet the reefs support rich communities. Population distribution, osmoregulatory and...
Show moreAn understanding of how organisms survive in oyster-reef habitat gives clues as to how they will respond to watershed alterations caused by humans. All estuarine environments experience natural salinity fluctuations, but anthropogenic activities have seriously altered salinity regimes in many areas. The changing tide in the shallow environment of the oyster reef means inhabitants risk exposure and desiccation, yet the reefs support rich communities. Population distribution, osmoregulatory and desiccation physiology and a generic basis for tolerance of extreme environments were investigated in the flatback mud crab Eurypanopeus depressus, a dominant species on oyster reefs in Southwest Florida. An analysis of abundance, biomass and size along a salinity gradient showed that although this species can survive extreme salinities, it is most common in moderate environments. In laboratory experiments, E. depressus hyper-osmoregulated in dilute salinities and conformed in concentrated salinities, achieving stable haemolymph osmotic concentration in less than 24 h. Water loss tolerance and the effect of desiccation on osmoregulatory abilities were also investigated. Eurypanopeus depressus, displayed average tolerance to water loss compared with other crustaceans and does not appear to be able to osmoregulate in air. Also, two distinct partial gene sequences from the peroxiredoxin antioxidant enzyme family were cloned from E. depressus. One of the cloned sequences is 465 bp in length and exhibits over 80% sequence homology with peroxiredoxins found in other arthropods and mammals. With further refinement of extraction techniques, peroxiredoxin gene expression in this intertidal crab could be used as a biomarker reflecting stress caused by environmental conditions.
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Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0417
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: An analysis of the predictive validity of the FCAT success probability of the Florida assessments of instruction in reading.
Creator: Clark, Mason M.
Abstract / Description: In this paper, the researcher explored published evidence of predictive validity for the Florida Assessments of Instruction in Reading (FAlR) as it pertains to subsequent proficiency on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) in reading for middle school students within the pm1icipating school district. The Florida Center for Reading Research (FCRR) (2009) has published moderate correlations between the risk status designation of the FAIR and subsequent FCAT reading proficiency. This...
Show moreIn this paper, the researcher explored published evidence of predictive validity for the Florida Assessments of Instruction in Reading (FAlR) as it pertains to subsequent proficiency on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) in reading for middle school students within the pm1icipating school district. The Florida Center for Reading Research (FCRR) (2009) has published moderate correlations between the risk status designation of the FAIR and subsequent FCAT reading proficiency. This study examined that relationship with a large (n=8477) sample of middle school students within one school district. Analysis with logistic regression identified a significant. predictive relationship for students within the sample. Additionally. the researcher performed linear regression analyses on the FCAT Success Probability (FSP) metric of the FAIR and subsequent FCAT reading scale scores and identified a significant predictive relationship between FSP and FCAT reading scale scores. Combining a student's risk status and raw FSP may hold promise in increasing the predictive power of the FAIR. The researcher also recommends additional research into the change in risk status across assessment periods in order to quantify the effectiveness of classroom interventions and thereby better evaluate the predictive power of the FAIR.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0457
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: An assessment of the potential for sustainable seafood practices in Southwest Florida.
Creator: Porter, Emily Susan
Abstract / Description: The environmental costs associated with seafood production are at an all-time high. Eighty percent of the world marine fish stocks, for which assessment information is available, are fully exploited, overexploited, or have already suffered a collapse (United Nations, 2010). Despite the issues associated with overfishing, seafood consumption continues to increase, and supply of certain species can no longer meet demand. According to SeafoodSource, a seafood market and research firm, two-thirds...
Show moreThe environmental costs associated with seafood production are at an all-time high. Eighty percent of the world marine fish stocks, for which assessment information is available, are fully exploited, overexploited, or have already suffered a collapse (United Nations, 2010). Despite the issues associated with overfishing, seafood consumption continues to increase, and supply of certain species can no longer meet demand. According to SeafoodSource, a seafood market and research firm, two-thirds of seafood are consumed in restaurants. Restaurant decision-makers (owners, chefs and managers) who are responsible for purchasing seafood, can therefore play an important role in mitigating the environmental impacts surrounding seafood production. The purpose of this exploratory study was to evaluate if southwest Florida restaurant decision-makers are making responsible, sustainable, seafood purchasing decisions. Forty-two decision-makers agreed to participate in the study. A combination of surveys and interviews were used to gather information. The goals of this research were to 1) determine if sustainable seafood practices are currently being used in southwest Florida restaurants; 2) identify decision-maker knowledge and attitudes toward sustainable seafood; 3) evaluate if educating decision-makers about sustainable seafood would change their purchasing habits; 4) determine motivating factors driving seafood selection and purchasing; 5) characterize the attitudes and awareness of decisionmakers about marine conservation; 6) evaluate decision-maker knowledge and sentiment related to seafood certifications, advisory lists and online purchasing options; and 7) determine decision-maker willingness to use sustainable seafood products. This study produced several major outcomes. Unsustainable fish species like Chilean sea bass, bluefin tuna and red snapper are being served in over 50% of the participating restaurants. Overall, decision-maker knowledge on sustainable seafood was limited. The majority of decision-makers did not make major changes in their purchasing habits even after being "educated" on the subject of sustainable seafood. Decisionmakers showed a disconnect between their own actions (serving unsustainable fish) and environmental consequences. Their knowledge of sustainable seafood certifications and advisory organizations was limited. The majority of decision-makers equate farm-raised fish as being sustainable. Restaurant owners know the least about sustainable seafood while chefs are the most knowledgeable. Chefs in fine dining and upscale restaurants know more about sustainable seafood than those in casual dining establishments. More education and awareness is needed throughout the restaurant industry in southwest Florida to effect any substantial change toward sustainable seafood practices.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0520
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Analysis of the university colloquium : developing students' ecological perspectives.
Creator: Phillips, Jessica D.
Abstract / Description: This study focuses on Florida Gulf Coast University's required undergraduate interdisciplinary course on sustainability, IDS 3920 University Colloquium, and how this program impacts the development of students' ecological perspectives. To measure the change in students' ecological perspectives the New Ecological Paradigm Scale (NEP) was given in a pre- and post-course survey format. Students' NEP scores or ecological perspectives were then compared to the results from a professor post-course...
Show moreThis study focuses on Florida Gulf Coast University's required undergraduate interdisciplinary course on sustainability, IDS 3920 University Colloquium, and how this program impacts the development of students' ecological perspectives. To measure the change in students' ecological perspectives the New Ecological Paradigm Scale (NEP) was given in a pre- and post-course survey format. Students' NEP scores or ecological perspectives were then compared to the results from a professor post-course survey that assessed professors ' backgrounds and the pedagogical strategies they applied in teaching of the University Colloquium course. While the University Colloquium was found to be effective for a majority of students, a sizable minority of student outcomes on the NEP survey indicated a decrease in their ecological perspectives. Although statistical significance was not determined for the remainder of the results due to small san1ple sizes, there were indications of some trends. For instance, students in science fields had overall higher pre- and post-course survey scores while students from non-science fields had overall higher gains. Trends also implied that students whose professors had more experience teaching the course, were from a field other than science, were considered a part-time professor, and spent less class time outdoors had higher gains. Two different teaching pedagogies were also indicated among participating professors and trends implied that students whose professors valued group projects, among other course components, had higher gains. The results from this study, along with continued research, may help influence the University Colloquium curriculum design to enhance achievement of the course objectives of developing student's ecological perspectives and awareness of the natural world.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0453
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Annual soil respiration and net ecosystem productivity of three mangrove forests on Sanibel Island, Florida.
Creator: Cartwright, Falon B.
Abstract / Description: The goal of this research was to address this need within and between different mangrove forest ecosystems. This study was conducted on Sanibel Island, Florida in three distinct mangrove habitat types characterized by dominant species composition and hydrology. Within each habitat type, annual soil respiration, and aboveground and belowground productivity were estimated from field-based measurements. Chapter 2 presents the results of the yearlong soil respiration research. In chapter 3,...
Show moreThe goal of this research was to address this need within and between different mangrove forest ecosystems. This study was conducted on Sanibel Island, Florida in three distinct mangrove habitat types characterized by dominant species composition and hydrology. Within each habitat type, annual soil respiration, and aboveground and belowground productivity were estimated from field-based measurements. Chapter 2 presents the results of the yearlong soil respiration research. In chapter 3, annual estimates of soil respiration, from Chapter 2 are combined with aboveground and belowground productivity from the same locations to compute annual ecosystem carbon budgets and net ecosystem productivity for each habitat. Chapter four is a synthesis and summary of the findings from both Chapter 2 and 3.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0474
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Anuran use of natural wetlands, created pools, and existing canals within the Picayune Strand Restoration Project.
Creator: Dixon, Alicia D.
Abstract / Description: The Picayune Strand Restoration Project (Picayune) is a major hydrologic/habitat restoration project that is being conducted as part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. This study was designed to evaluate the success of the restoration activities within the Picayune by obtaining and analyzing anuran species richness and relative abundance in relation to various restoration phases. The restoration phases included two "treatments" (i.e., restored canal and un-restored canal) and a...
Show moreThe Picayune Strand Restoration Project (Picayune) is a major hydrologic/habitat restoration project that is being conducted as part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. This study was designed to evaluate the success of the restoration activities within the Picayune by obtaining and analyzing anuran species richness and relative abundance in relation to various restoration phases. The restoration phases included two "treatments" (i.e., restored canal and un-restored canal) and a "reference" (i.e., natural wetland depression). Anuran observations were conducted using nocturnal audible call surveys, polyvinyl chloride pipe refugia sampling, and dip netting. Based upon the audible call sampling and dip netting, the results indicated that the lowest species richness and relative abundance values occurred within the un-restored canal, then there was an increase in the restored canal, and highest values were in the natural wetlands. Also, the audible call sampling showed distinct groupings and similarities of anurans within each restoration phases and also identified significant differences in the distribution of anuran species relative to the different restoration phases. Specifically, Gastrophryne carolinensis, Hyla femora/is, and Rana sphenocephala were only documented in the natural and restored areas and Hyla cinerea and Hyla squirella preferred the natural areas the most followed by the restored areas; therefore, they appear to be "indicator species" of restoration success. These findings serve as an implication that the restoration activities within the Picayune are effective and that anurans are biological indicators of restoration success.
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Date Issued: 2009-10
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0427
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Assessing the benefits of environmental education and its impact on environmental literacy among exiting fifth graders across economic and participation spectrum of lee couny public schools.
Creator: Davis, Sarah West
Abstract / Description: For over forty years, Lee County Environmental Education (EE) program has been teaching children and teachers-sharing nature with students of all ages through classroom programs, field trips, teacher trainings and special programs. At the same time in our culture we are seeing increases in childhood obesity, attention deficit disorders and depression. Children spend less time outside, watch more television, play digital games and are developing a great fear of nature and the outdoor world,...
Show moreFor over forty years, Lee County Environmental Education (EE) program has been teaching children and teachers-sharing nature with students of all ages through classroom programs, field trips, teacher trainings and special programs. At the same time in our culture we are seeing increases in childhood obesity, attention deficit disorders and depression. Children spend less time outside, watch more television, play digital games and are developing a great fear of nature and the outdoor world, what Richard Louv (2005) refers to as "Nature-Deficit Disorder". Lee County was one of the first school districts in the nation to develop an integrated environmental education framed K-12 curriculum continuum and instructional program for illustrating the main concepts, ideas and values that children should have a grasp on for each grade level and subject area. This study examines the degree of participation in the Lee County Environmental Education Program and its impact on developing environmental literacy of exiting fifth-grade students from six different schools; the study was only able to assess knowledge and field trip experiences. The schools represented high and low participation in the EE program and were from different socio-economic levels. Students took home a survey asking them questions about their environmental knowledge and their experiences on field trips. Out of the 744 surveys distributed, 305 were returned (41% return rate). The knowledge portion of the survey was adapted from the Children's Environmental and Knowledge Scale (CHEAKS) developed by Leeming Dwyer and Bracken (1995). Contrary to what was expected, there was no significant difference among high and low EE participation groups. Lower participation groups scored higher on the knowledge, but had reported attending additional environmental trips outside of the EE program. While children may develop some basic understanding of nature through schooling, experiences in nature assist them in developing their attitudes and personality in relation to nature and this has a much greater influence on them than just basic knowledge. Consistent with current research, significant differences were found among socioeconomic levels (p=0.022), higher socio-economic schools scored higher on the environmental knowledge instrument. Overwhelmingly positive attitudes and behaviors were reflected in the responses to field trip experience questions. Adding to the body of environmental education research, this study reveals evidence of the benefits of environmental education and demonstrates that environmental education is a vital core of K-12 education.
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Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0452
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Balance and kinesthetic awareness assessment of subjects with cervicogenic headaches.
Creator: Lockhart, Jessica, St. Martin, Mary
Abstract / Description: Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this research was to determine the standing balance sway index and cervical kinesthetic awareness in patients experiencing a CEH, and compare these scores to existing normative data. Balance and kinesthetic awareness systems are anatomically linked to the somatosensory system. Due to the close relationship of these systems, it is hypothesized that cervicogenic headaches will be accompanied by a dysfunction in balance and kinesthetic awareness. Subjects: A...
Show morePurpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this research was to determine the standing balance sway index and cervical kinesthetic awareness in patients experiencing a CEH, and compare these scores to existing normative data. Balance and kinesthetic awareness systems are anatomically linked to the somatosensory system. Due to the close relationship of these systems, it is hypothesized that cervicogenic headaches will be accompanied by a dysfunction in balance and kinesthetic awareness. Subjects: A total of 21 subjects were recruited from outpatient physical therapy clinics and Florida Gulf Coast University College of Health Professions and College of Nursing in southwest Florida. There were thirteen females and eight males with an age range of 18-5 7 years old with an average age of thirty-five years old. All subjects were diagnosed by a CEH by a licensed physical therapist using the International Headache Study Group's CEH diagnostic criteria. The average pain for a CEH from the twenty-one participants was 5. 8/10. The last episode of a CEH occurred from one month ago to the day of testing; with five out of the twenty-one participants having a CEH sometime during the day of testing. Materials/Methods: The Biodex Balance System SD was used to assess balance through the modified Clinical Test of Sensory Integration and Balance (m-CTSIB). This standardized test involved four conditions, which challenged different aspects of the individuals balance mechanisms. Each condition was held tor thirty seconds as the Biodex Balance System SO calculated the subjects sway index and stability index. A cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility test previously used by Revel, Andre-Deshays, & Minguet (1991) was administered to the subjects. The exam involved assessing the abilities of a blindfolded subject to reproduce a neutral head position after moving the head and neck through three cardinal planes of motion. Results: The averages of each of the assessments were described according to the normative data set for each assessment tool. The average M-CTSIB sway index tor subjects with a CEH was above the highest normal value for three of the four conditions. The largest difference in balance was noted in the fourth testing position, standing on foam with eyes closed. The average kinesthetic awareness score of subjects with CEH were within a normal range. No significant correlations were found between deficits in balance and kinesthetic awareness in patients with CEH. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate that patients with CEH have deficits in standing balance, specifically with challenging the vestibular system. This study did not conclude a deficit in kinesthetic awareness in patients with CEH. Clinical Relevance: Balance results may provide a physical therapist an objective measure to monitor throughout the rehabilitation tor a patient with CEH. Balance training in conjunction with the traditional treatment methods for CEH may improve patient outcomes. Kinesthetic awareness should not be excluded from an examination of patients with CEH, even though the results of this study did not conclude a deficit in kinesthetic awareness when comparing patients with CEH to the normal population. Kinesthetic awareness deficits may occur in patients with CEH and neck pain, which might indicate impairments in proprioception.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0432
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Bioaccumulation and depuration of brevetoxins in the eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) and the Northern Quahog (=Hard Clam, Mercenaria Mercenaria).
Creator: Griffith, Andrew W.
Abstract / Description: The eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) and northern quahog (= hard clam, Mercenaria mercenaria) are two species of economic and ecological significance in coastal areas. Both species because they are filter feeders can have profound effects of water quality. Commercial industries for these species, especially within the state of Florida, are relatively large. Crassostrea virginica is also a keystone species in marine ecosystems because oyster reefs provide habitat for numerous marine...
Show moreThe eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) and northern quahog (= hard clam, Mercenaria mercenaria) are two species of economic and ecological significance in coastal areas. Both species because they are filter feeders can have profound effects of water quality. Commercial industries for these species, especially within the state of Florida, are relatively large. Crassostrea virginica is also a keystone species in marine ecosystems because oyster reefs provide habitat for numerous marine organisms. The purpose of this experiment is to build upon the already established body of knowledge surrounding effects of Karenia brevis on species of shellfish and to provide an understanding of the kinetics of brevetoxins within shellfish tissue and give an indication of just how long brevetoxins remain in these organisms after a bloom event. Individuals were exposed to Karenia brevis at a concentration of Sx 105 cells-L-1 for eight days. After exposure samples were transferred into clean water for depuration. Individuals were sampled periodically to determine the rate of depuration. Brevetoxin tissue concentrations were determined using an Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). After five days of exposure both species reached brevetoxin tissue concentrations well above safe limits. Clams averaged tissue concentrations of 1,000 ng g1 while the oysters averaged 1,986 ng g-1. After two weeks of depuration both species yielded tissue concentrations that were below safe limits with clams averaging 204.8 ng g-1 and oysters averaging 437.01 ng g-1. Low levels were present in on both species for the duration of the experiment.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0475
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Black agency : the African-American fight to integrate the Lee County, Florida, Public School System.
Creator: Molloy, Adam Christopher
Abstract / Description: African-Americans were the leading figures in the fight to end segregation in southwest Florida. Following the protest strategies of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), blacks in Fort Myers challenged the historic racial hierarchy. While not unusual in its pattern of opposition, the African-American community in Lee County, Florida has not been given the scholarly attention it deserves. Blacks have been treated as passive victims of historical events, and...
Show moreAfrican-Americans were the leading figures in the fight to end segregation in southwest Florida. Following the protest strategies of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), blacks in Fort Myers challenged the historic racial hierarchy. While not unusual in its pattern of opposition, the African-American community in Lee County, Florida has not been given the scholarly attention it deserves. Blacks have been treated as passive victims of historical events, and it is therefore, necessary to change this view and provide a more accurate history. A large amount of scholarship has been undertaken on the civil rights movement in the U.S. as a whole, and a substantial body of work is emerging on civil rights in the Sunshine State, but few works cover African-Americans specifically in southwest Florida. The aim of this study is to provide a better understanding of historical black agency in southwest Florida and identify how local African-Americans changed a community. It will explore these issues through a focus on desegregation in the local school system. Professor Irvin D. S. Winsboro, a historian who focuses on African-American history in Lee County, stated that the integration of the schools, "reflected an interconnected triumph of black agency and federal intervention over a state/local resistance of school desegregation."1 Winsboro has examined the desegregation of schools in southwest Florida and assessed how the refusal of local authorities to integrate public schools fit into the framework of resistance orchestrated by the state. This research project builds on Winsboro's work by exploring the role played by African-Americans themselves in the struggle to integrate schools in Lee County. This project is based on detailed analysis of the Fort Myers News-Press, as well as oral history interviews with members of the black activist community in southwest Florida. It is my hope that this study expands scholarship on civil rights and black agency, with regard to Lee County, Florida, and beyond.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0463
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Bridging cultural borders: an interpretative phenomenology of American students' cross-cultrual teaching experiences in Hungary.
Creator: Greene, Jackie S.
Abstract / Description: In this interpretative phenomenological study, I examined the impact of a study abroad student teaching experience on seven student teachers' perception of culture, pedagogy, and use of ESOL (English Speakers of Other Languages) teaching strategies. I analyzed various forms of data using IPA (Interpretative Phenomenology Analysis) with the purpose of discovering participants' personal perspectives and emerging themes to emphasize commonalities of their study abroad experience. In order to...
Show moreIn this interpretative phenomenological study, I examined the impact of a study abroad student teaching experience on seven student teachers' perception of culture, pedagogy, and use of ESOL (English Speakers of Other Languages) teaching strategies. I analyzed various forms of data using IPA (Interpretative Phenomenology Analysis) with the purpose of discovering participants' personal perspectives and emerging themes to emphasize commonalities of their study abroad experience. In order to honor idiography as an element of IP A, I created a found poem for each participant using poetic transcriptions. As a result of the analysis, I identified several themes and sub-themes that percolated throughout this study abroad experience: expansion of cultural views, pedagogical enlightenment, recognition of value of ESOL strategies, and the impact of becoming an immigrant child. I included participant voices as rich testimony to cognitive, cultural, and pedagogical epiphanies and transformations. The most profound epiphanies occurred in the transformation and expansion of their perceptions concerning culture and the subtle ways culture impacted their thinking, actions, beliefs, values, and their pedagogical classroom practice.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0423
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Catastrophic wind damage and its effect on forest ecosystems in southwest Florida.
Creator: Kaufman, Kevin Bradford
Abstract / Description: Southwest Florida has few scientific records of impact to forest ecosystems from hurricane disturbances. This study looks at different forest ecosystems around Southwest Florida and determines the overall impact of the catastrophic winds of Hurricane Charley. There are four main goals to the study: 1. to see how the severity of hurricane impacts varied across upland forest sites and forest types in Southwest Florida; 2. to see how the severity of impacts to species and forest type relate to...
Show moreSouthwest Florida has few scientific records of impact to forest ecosystems from hurricane disturbances. This study looks at different forest ecosystems around Southwest Florida and determines the overall impact of the catastrophic winds of Hurricane Charley. There are four main goals to the study: 1. to see how the severity of hurricane impacts varied across upland forest sites and forest types in Southwest Florida; 2. to see how the severity of impacts to species and forest type relate to the intensity of wind; 3. to see how the forest structure influenced severity of impacts and 4. ultimately the goal is to determine if these forest systems will recover to their previous "climax region" or will they "convert" to new ecosystems. The study was conducted at seven different locations in Southwest Florida. These study sites were selected based on the hurricane path, accessibility, and forest type. Each site selected experienced different wind speeds. A total of21 transects were made over the seven sites for a total sampling area of 2.1 hectares. Tree size and damage were quantified in each location. Statistical analysis indicated significant differences among sites for both damage and mortality. Interpretation of these results is complicated by the pre-hurricane differences in sites, the variation in forest types randomly sampled by transects, and in the differences of wind intensity experienced among sites. Damage for individual tree species at different wind speeds did not follow a simple line. Of the three main species that were tracked, only Saba/ palmetto showed linear correlation of increasing damage as wind speed increased. Although there was more damage at higher wind speed, Pinus elliottii showed no correlation in any one type of damage at certain wind speeds. However, both snapping and uprooting, the two main causes for tree mortality, were only prevalent in areas that had hurricane force winds. Quercus virginiana showed increased damage at higher wind speed as well. As expected the overall mortality of stems increased as the wind speed increased. Mortality in the stems did not occur until winds reached 65-75mph. There was no correlation between forest structure and the percent damage to stems. The results of this study indicate that for forested upland systems, Hurricane Charley falls into the "normal" range of severity of impacts common for cyclonic storms. However, delayed mortality and exotic infestation could alter this conclusion, particularly in the most severely damaged areas. This distinction is important for environmental planners and land managers to make more informed decisions on forest management.
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Date Issued: 2006
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0517
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: China-Cuba relations : mid-1800s to the present.
Creator: Hirsch, Beth
Abstract / Description: The thesis is divided into several chapters. Chapter One examines the role of Chinese migrants who came to Cuba as laborers and stayed to become merchants and revolutionaries for an independent Cuba is explored. This migration, while small in terms of actual numbers, did have an impact on Cuban society but it did not lead to the maintenance of strong ties between China and Cuba over the long term. The next two chapters center on the Cold War-Chapter Two on the early Cold War and then Chapter...
Show moreThe thesis is divided into several chapters. Chapter One examines the role of Chinese migrants who came to Cuba as laborers and stayed to become merchants and revolutionaries for an independent Cuba is explored. This migration, while small in terms of actual numbers, did have an impact on Cuban society but it did not lead to the maintenance of strong ties between China and Cuba over the long term. The next two chapters center on the Cold War-Chapter Two on the early Cold War and then Chapter Three on the late Cold War- and assess not only the action of China and Cuba as players in this drama, but also the integral role played by the United States and the Soviet Union. Finally, Chapter Four discusses the post-Cold War reality. In this present state, China has emerged as a world power, no longer having to react to the policies and actions of the United States or to Russia, unless it is in its interest to do so. In this segment, economics has replaced ideology as the primary determinant for global alliances. China has embraced this reality with extraordinary success, and because of its economic superpower status, it can influence its neighbors and various regions to bend to its will. Cuba has yet to be able to solidify its economic footing, still seeking alliances with whoever will offer it aid and so has become a less influential member than previously of the emerging nations of the world.
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Date Issued: 2012-04
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0442
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Comparing teacher candidates' and licensed educators' commitment to the INTASC principles : disposit.
Creator: Quinn, David J.
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to compare levels of commitment to the Interstate New Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (INTASC) Principles for teacher candidates or educators enrolled in six different types of professional education degree programs. This study aimed to see if there was a difference in dispositional levels of commitment to the INTASC Principles based on degree programs in which respondents were enrolled. Three hundred and twenty two students from two different...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to compare levels of commitment to the Interstate New Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (INTASC) Principles for teacher candidates or educators enrolled in six different types of professional education degree programs. This study aimed to see if there was a difference in dispositional levels of commitment to the INTASC Principles based on degree programs in which respondents were enrolled. Three hundred and twenty two students from two different universities participated in this causal comparative research. Three instruments from The Dispositions Assessments Aligned with Teacher Standards (DAATS®) battery of instruments were utilized as the measuring instruments for all groups. The largest difference found in this study was between juniors and advanced graduate students, with much higher levels of commitment to the INTASC Principles shown by advanced graduate students than by masters' level students, alternative certification students, or undergraduate students. These differences were statistically significant. The reasons for these differences remain unknown and could form the basis for future investigation. As a result of these findings, additional research questions are suggested, including exploration of the relationship between teacher dispositions and K -12 student learning, the impact of working on courses in diversity, motivation to grow professionally, or cognitive level. Implications for diagnosis and remediation of individual students, as well as program improvement opportunities, could be explored.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0459
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Comparison of the Wii Fit force platform to the Motion Lab System force plate.
Creator: Kohle, Jennifer
Abstract / Description: The Nintendo Wii Fit is a gaming system that utilizes a balance board and a variety of software applications that can be used therapeutically by physical therapists. Applications of the Wii Fit fall into four main categories: strength training, aerobics, yoga, and balance games. Before starting any activities, balance is assessed by a basic balance test to determine how well a person controls his/her balance. However, there is no research stating that the Nintendo Wii Fit is a valid tool for...
Show moreThe Nintendo Wii Fit is a gaming system that utilizes a balance board and a variety of software applications that can be used therapeutically by physical therapists. Applications of the Wii Fit fall into four main categories: strength training, aerobics, yoga, and balance games. Before starting any activities, balance is assessed by a basic balance test to determine how well a person controls his/her balance. However, there is no research stating that the Nintendo Wii Fit is a valid tool for assessing balance. A study to determine whether the Wii Fit is a valid tool for assessing balance (center of pressure) could be done through simultaneous data collection from the Wii Fit force platform and a Motion Lab System Force Plate. If the Wii Fit is determined to be a valid tool for measuring balance, it could be adopted by physical therapy clinics for a small fraction of the cost of a more elaborate force plate system.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0493
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Current physical therapy for stroke rehabilitation in the clinical setting in Florida : a survey.
Creator: Barbee, Kelsey, Fioravante, Casey
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to inquire which approaches physical therapists practicing in stroke rehabilitation in Florida utilize in the clinical setting. In addition, the researchers wanted to determine which theoretical approach physical therapists prefer to utilize for a variety of interventional strategies. Lastly, the researchers wanted to create a useful resource that will be beneficial to educational institutes and other currently practicing physical therapists involved in stroke...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to inquire which approaches physical therapists practicing in stroke rehabilitation in Florida utilize in the clinical setting. In addition, the researchers wanted to determine which theoretical approach physical therapists prefer to utilize for a variety of interventional strategies. Lastly, the researchers wanted to create a useful resource that will be beneficial to educational institutes and other currently practicing physical therapists involved in stroke rehabilitation.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0498
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Danse Macabre : an anatomy of the vampire in Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake, vampire hunter novel.
Creator: Higgins, Joseph Alan
Abstract / Description: So, in this anatomy, we will examine the vampire as abject being, specifically the postmodern vampires of Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter novels, as well as examining the fearful fascination that vampires evoke in American culture. Hamilton would seem to have created a postmodern milieu that provides a framework for studying both the literary and the cultural aspects of the vampire. She has, like Stoker and Anne Rice, given us an evolutionary step in the "life" of the...
Show moreSo, in this anatomy, we will examine the vampire as abject being, specifically the postmodern vampires of Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter novels, as well as examining the fearful fascination that vampires evoke in American culture. Hamilton would seem to have created a postmodern milieu that provides a framework for studying both the literary and the cultural aspects of the vampire. She has, like Stoker and Anne Rice, given us an evolutionary step in the "life" of the literary vampire. In addition, her work provides us insight into ourselves and our culture. My purpose is to further both monstrous scholarship and Hamilton scholarship in the hopes of adding something of value to cultural analysis is as a whole and to the enrichment of my own cultures in particular. Using Kristeva's notion of abjection, Foucault's theory of bio-power, and Bomstein's notion of the "third," it is hoped that insights into not only the literary vampire can be gained, but insights into American culture as well These insights will hopefully be of use far beyond the confines of a literary analysis. The Antemortem will address the theorists used in the anatomy and how they apply to Hamilton's postmodem vampire, and will also address previous cultural analyses of the vampire in order to locate the anatomy in that history. Chapter One of the Mortem addresses our fearful fascination with the vampire and how the various theorists can be used in an anatomy. Chapter Two addresses the novels of Laurell K. Hamilton directly delving deeper into the theoretical aspects of the vampire in relation to American culture. Chapter Three presents a case study using Anita's cast of vampires and how they apply to the notions presented in the first two chapters. Finally, the Postmortem presents the implications of this anatomy for both literary and cultural analysis.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0464
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Desperado coast : Florida's internal civil war along the lower Gulf coast, 1861-1865.
Creator: Mack, William B.
Abstract / Description: Florida in the 1860s had two distinct socio-economic realities. Middle Florida, the panhandle area around Tallahassee, was home to large plantations reliant on slave labor, whereas the south Florida frontier was home to small family farms and free-range cattle. There were a few plantations along the St Johns River, but most small farmers owned few slaves and relied on family labor. Most farmers in the southern peninsula operated on a subsistence basis that was made even more difficult due to...
Show moreFlorida in the 1860s had two distinct socio-economic realities. Middle Florida, the panhandle area around Tallahassee, was home to large plantations reliant on slave labor, whereas the south Florida frontier was home to small family farms and free-range cattle. There were a few plantations along the St Johns River, but most small farmers owned few slaves and relied on family labor. Most farmers in the southern peninsula operated on a subsistence basis that was made even more difficult due to wartime shortages. Florida refugees who fled to Union lines came largely from this poor, yeoman class. Middle Floridians and city dwellers seem to have been more prone to support the Confederacy. The conflict between these two classes cannot be termed a class struggle, as refugees were not seeking to improve their station in life but simply to survive and ensure the safety of their families. Floridians who supported the Union often did so because the Union offered the opportunity for these men to remain in the state and provide for their families, whereas the Confederacy conscripted adult males, sent them to fight at far removed battlefields and sometimes confiscated their family's means of sustenance.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: fgcu_ETD_0444
Format: Document (PDF)

Exercise therapy (4)	+ -
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Mercury content (3)	+ -
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rehabilitation (3)	+ -
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Forest ecology--Research. (2)	+ -
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Mathematics. (2)	+ -
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