DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY

Analytical Papers and Analyses

(Gawley, Nick) (Ross, Justin) (Euler, Michael) (Wischmann, Mackenzie). THE EFFECTS OF LIGHT FILTERS ON THE RATE OF PHOTOSYNTHESIS.

Photosynthesis in plants is affected by the intensity of light that the plant is exposed to. For this experiment we tested the chlorophyll light energy conversion rate to chemical energy in Elodea shoots. The shoots were exposed to several colored incandescent light bulbs for a set time interval of 10 minutes each. We concluded that the darker incandescent bulbs showed little to no dissolved oxygen change compared to the light colored bulbs which had a significant change when compared to the control white light.
Faculty Sponsor: BARTA, CSENGELE

Empirical Projects

Arbuckle, Derek, Lichtenegger, Ryan, Lord, Jeremy. WHITE NOSE SYNDROME IN BAT SPECIES.

The virus White Nose Syndrome has affected \r\nseveral bat species in caves across the country. \r\nThe virus has been spreading since the first case \r\nwas found around nine years ago . The syndrome is \r\na virus that attacks the bat during torpor or \r\nhibernation by waking up the bats. The bats are \r\nawoken and begin using energy saved up for \r\nwinter, when once affected by the syndrome. Many \r\ndifferent efforts from conservation agencies, and \r\nwildlife service have been done including placing \r\ngates on caves and tracking positive cases of \r\ninfected caves across the country to assist the \r\nsyndrome spreading further.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER

Arbuckle, Derek, Bartlett, Jenice, Bryan, Bailey, Eber, Eli, Green, Jessie, Hall, Jaymes, Horn, Ethan, Hughes, Tyler, Lichtenegger, Ryan, Matthes, Alesha, Phillips, Micah, Ridenour, Coltin, Roberton,. DOES ADAPTATION TO THE LOCAL MICRO-CLIMATE AFFECT COLD STRESS RESPONSE IN VELVET BEAN ?.

Within this project we investigated the impact of \r\ncold stress on velvet bean plants grown under \r\ndifferent temperature and light conditions.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Morgan Barnett, Patrick Flint, Cheyenne Knecht. CATALASE AND PH.

Catalase is an enzyme that breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. It is found in nearly every aerobic organism. It is important because it protects the cell from oxidative damage since oxygen is so reactive. In mammals, catalase is typically found in the liver. Aside from inside the body, catalase is used to help preserve food and to break down hydrogen peroxide in wastewater. In this experiment we tested the pH sensitivity of purified catalase in vitro.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Rachael Domann, Mckenna Holdsworth, Baylea Martin & Thea Miller. ENVIORNMENTAL AND CHEMICAL EFFECTS ON STOMATA.

In our experiment we observed the effects of how different environments affected the opening or closing of the stomata on Wandering Jew (Tradescantia sp.) leaves. We introduced our leaves to environments that had excessive light, heat, darkness, as well as conditions that consisted of 10 mL of NaCl and ABA solution. While conducting our experiments our results concluded that when a Wandering Jew leaf is exposed to an environment that contains NaCl, ABA solution and excessive darkness the stomata closed when exposed for a period of time. During our experiment our leaf was exposed to a high temperature for an excessive amount of time causing our Tradescantia leaves to cease functioning.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Rachael Domann, Mckenna Holdsworth, Baylea Martin & Thea Miller. ENVIORNMENTAL AND CHEMICAL EFFECTS ON STOMATA.

In our experiment we observed the effects of how different environments affected the opening or closing of the stomata on Wandering Jew (Tradescantia sp.) leaves. We introduced our leaves to environments that had excessive light, heat, darkness, as well as conditions that consisted of 10 mL of NaCl and ABA solution. While conducting our experiments our results concluded that when a Wandering Jew leaf is exposed to an environment that contains NaCl, ABA solution and excessive darkness the stomata closed when exposed for a period of time. During our experiment our leaf was exposed to a high temperature for an excessive amount of time causing our Tradescantia leaves to cease functioning.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Rachael Domann, Mckenna Holdsworth, Baylea Martin & Thea Miller. ENVIORNMENTAL AND CHEMICAL EFFECTS ON STOMATA.

In our experiment we observed the effects of how different environments affected the opening or closing of the stomata on Wandering Jew (Tradescantia sp.) leaves. We introduced our leaves to environments that had excessive light, heat, darkness, as well as conditions that consisted of 10 mL of NaCl and ABA solution. While conducting our experiments our results concluded that when a Wandering Jew leaf is exposed to an environment that contains NaCl, ABA solution and excessive darkness the stomata closed when exposed for a period of time. During our experiment our leaf was exposed to a high temperature for an excessive amount of time causing our Tradescantia leaves to cease functioning.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Duryee, Alex. NEGATIVE SELECTION FOR CELLEX RIBOSWITCH DISCOVERY .

Riboswitches control gene expression by alternative folding in response to small molecules. Riboswitch development has primarily occurred by an in vitro process known as a systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). We developed a new protocol for discovering riboswitches in vivo that we call Cell-based EXponential enrichment, or CellEX. The method uses evolution and selection to discover new riboswitches that function reliably in bacterial cells.
Faculty Sponsor: TODD ECKDAHL

Edelman, Danielle; Pike, Alexis; Jones, Alyssa. THE AFFECT OF PH ON THE ENZYME CATALASE ACTIVITY.

Our group tested the affect of different acids and bases (with different pH values) on the enzyme catalase in beef liver by measuring the oxygen (foam) production. Does acids or bases increase or alter enzyme catalase activity? If we use different acids and bases with different pH values, then the lowest pH will not be viable for the catalase enzyme. The results concluded that the more neutral the pH, the greater the oxygen production.
Faculty Sponsor: JASON BAKER

Fry, Justin . ARCTIC FOX INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT ON CHIRIKOF ISLAND, ALASKA.

During the summer of 2015 I was hired by the US Dept. of Agriculture, Wildlife Services Division on a summer internship. I spent three and a half months on uninhabited Chirikof Island located one hundred miles South West of Kodiak Island, AK. I was part of a four man team sent out to reduce the population of the non-native arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) population that were introduced in the late 1800s for fur production. The purpose of this effort was to protect and improve the nesting success of of native sea nesting shore birds. Methods for removing the fox were mostly trapping with opportunistic shooting. I also participated in a variety of other tasks. I am thankful for this experience provided by the USDA Wildlife Services.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER

Holloran, Sean. RIBOSWITCH LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION FOR CELLEX .

Riboswitches are useful control elements for synthetic biologist, but the lack of riboswitches that can function in cells is a bottleneck. We have developed a new method for riboswitch discovery called CellEX. CellEX relies on the production of a library of riboswitches that can be subjected to negative and positive selection.
Faculty Sponsor: TODD ECKDAHL

Edward Miles, Bethany Bolander, Christina Gray, Lauren Alkier and Csengele Barta. THE ONSET OF SENESCENCE IS DELAYED IN VELVET BEAN GROWN UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURE AND HIGH IRRADIANCES.

Most leaves senesce (age) and abscise from deciduous trees in the autumn. However, in some species, as oaks, the abscission layer does not form until the spring, phenomenon referred to as marcescence. Though the dry leaves retained throughout the winter may deter grazing herbivores and protect nascent buds, delayed leaf shedding negatively impacts litter formation and nutrient cycling.   In a previous, long-term molecular eco- physiology study we found a positive correlation between the rate of isoprene emission and a delay in the onset of senescence and abscission in pin oaks (Barta et al., manuscript in preparation, 2015). To gain a better understanding of the role of isoprene emission capacity in senescence, we investigated whether environmental factors, such as high/low temperatures and high/low light conditions, previously described to affect the rate of isoprene synthesis and emission in plants also modulate the timing of senescence in the non-marcescent isoprene emitter legume, velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens).
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Packham, Alycia Stewart, Lauren Tomlinson, Daven . CONSERVATION BIOLOGY AND ECOLOGY OF HUMPBAVK WHALES .

This poster is on the humpback whale from a biological and ecological standpoint. We talk about how these whales feed and their reproduction to conservation efforts to save these whales.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY CHEVALIER

Paz, Javier. USING FLUORESCENCE TO MEASURE THE FUNCTION OF TRANSLATIONAL RIBOSWITCHES.

Current use of microbes for metabolic engineering suffers from loss of metabolic output due to natural selection. Rather than combat natural selection, we chose to develop Programmed Evolution as a method to embrace what makes biological engineering unique among all engineering fields – evolving materials. A key component of Programmed Evolution is the riboswitch, which can bind to the product of a metabolic pathway and turn on the expression of a fitness gene. Here we describe the use of fluorescence to measure the function of translational riboswitches.
Faculty Sponsor: TODD ECKDAHL

Poole, Crystal. Moore, Josiah. Miller Brendan. OCCURRENCE OF SOUTHERN FLYING SQUIRREL IN NW MISSOURI.

The occurrence southern flying squirrel is not well known. To increase the knowledge of their distribution in Missouri, Sherman live traps were set along two different transects at Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge. Squaw Creek was chosen because it’s a local wildlife refuge in the range of flying squirrels where they haven’t been documented. The trap lines were run over the summer of 2015 along with five camera traps. Despite these efforts no flying squirrels were recorded. Some explanations are that the habitat was non-ideal and traps were run while food was easily available. Further research will be conducted.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER

Ashlyn Powers, Kelly Ramey, Brea Lembke, Byran Rosinski. OSMOTIC PRESSURE.

Osmotic pressure drives the movement of solutes/solution across membranes. Water tends to move from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high concentrations, which is biologically important for cells and their tonicity.Our experiments test the osmotic pressure developing in sugar solutions of different concentrations.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Stawkowski Cheyenne, Kelley Christopher. YEAST CONCENTRATION IN FERMENTED DRINKS.

In this project we estimated the yeast content of \r\nin a variety of fermented drinks, using a \r\nhaemocytometer.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Dailee Teegarden, Jasmine Fierst. CATALASE IN BIRD LIVER.

Catalase is an enzyme found in high concentrations \r\nin the liver cells of animals. It splits hydrogen \r\nperoxide, which is toxic to cells, into oxygen and \r\nwater. The purpose of the experiment was to test \r\nthe amount of catalase found in chicken, duck, and \r\nturkey liver. We hypothesized that the turkey \r\nliver would produce the largest amount of oxygen \r\nfrom H2O2, thus having the highest concentration \r\nof catalase. \r\n
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Dailee Teegarden, Jasmine Fierst. CATALASE IN BIRD LIVER.

Catalase is an enzyme found in high concentrations \r\nin the liver cells of animals. It splits hydrogen \r\nperoxide, which is toxic to cells, into oxygen and \r\nwater. The purpose of the experiment was to test \r\nthe amount of catalase found in chicken, duck, and \r\nturkey liver. We hypothesized that the turkey \r\nliver would produce the largest amount of oxygen \r\nfrom H2O2, thus having the highest concentration \r\nof catalase. \r\n
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Dailee Teegarden, Jasmine Fierst. CATALASE IN BIRD LIVER.

Catalase is an enzyme found in high concentrations \r\nin the liver cells of animals. It splits hydrogen \r\nperoxide, which is toxic to cells, into oxygen and \r\nwater. The purpose of the experiment was to test \r\nthe amount of catalase found in chicken, duck, and \r\nturkey liver. We hypothesized that the turkey \r\nliver would produce the largest amount of oxygen \r\nfrom H2O2, thus having the highest concentration \r\nof catalase. \r\n
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Gabe Thomas, Shyra Jackson, and Autumn Cross. YEAST ETHANOL SENSITIVITY.

Within this project we tested the impact of three different ethanol concentrations (10% 25% and 40% ) on yeast function.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA

Trocosso, Jon. USING POSITIVE SELECTION FOR RIBOSWITCH DISCOVERY.

Riboswitches can be used to regulate gene expression with the presence or lack of a desired ligand. The problem with this is very few working riboswitches have been discovered that work in cells. With this in mind we sought out to develop CellEX to discover new riboswitches.
Faculty Sponsor: TODD ECKDAHL

(Wischmann, Mackenzie) (Poole, Crystal) (Meyer, Jordan). HABITAT SELECTION BY STATE ENDANGERED BLANDING?S TURTLE IN SQUAW CREEK WILDLIFE REFUGE.

In Missouri, Emydoidea blandingii is State Endangered and is only \r\nknown to occur at three different locations. Spatial ecology using \r\nradio telemetry was implemented because of this species rarity, \r\nconservation status and the intensive wetland management that \r\noccurs on the study area. The objective of the study is to monitor \r\nwhat type of habitat E. blandingii is utilizing including dominant \r\nvegetation type, water depth, water temperature, home range, daily \r\nmovement, wetland management, and responses to overall weather \r\npatterns. During 2012-2015 a total of three turtles were tracked (1 \r\nmale, 2 females). As well in 2014, one female has been X-rayed for \r\neggs before and after assumed nesting behavior in order to develop \r\nan approximate reproductive window for the local population. Latest \r\ndevelopments include successful acquisition of mounted temperature \r\ndata loggers to determine temperature selection. This data includes \r\nhibernation period temperatures as low as 0.5° C.
Faculty Sponsor: MILLS, MARK

Internship/Practicum Experience

Bishop, Deric. U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS INTERNSHIP DERIC BISHOP .

A poster discussing my summer internship with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Showing what I learned and different tasks that I was able to be a part of and accomplish.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER

Bolander, Beth; Brown, Steven. EFFECTS OF PARKING LOT RUN-OFF ON LARVAL AMPHIBIAN GROWTH AND SURVIVORSHIP.

The effect of parking lot run-off water on tadpole development of the chorus frog was observed. Different concentrations of the collected run-off water was placed into cattle tanks which were then filled with frog eggs. Over the summer of 2015, measurements were taken of the water, such as pH and temperature (for regulation), and the frogs were collected as they became almost full metamorphs. The measurements of the frogs included mass, tail length, right hind leg length, and snout-ventral length. After statistical data analysis, it was determined that there was not a significant difference between survivorship of each concentration, but there was a significant difference of right hind leg length between high and low concentrations.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. MARK MILLS

Bryan, Bailey. CONSERVATION OUTREACH AND EDUCATION THROUGH WILDLIFE MEDICINE AND INTERPRETIVE LEARNING.

I spent this summer as an intern for Lakeside Nature Center in Kansas City, Missouri. There I actively participated in wildlife medicine and rehabilitation of several raptor species, small mammals, song birds, and reptiles. I also participated in outreach and education for elementary students and community members, using displays in the center and live animal interpretive learning programs. These programs discussed the biological features of the animals, their ecology, and conservation of the species. Educating the youth of the community about nature and its preservation is an important factor in the future of conservation - if you can get them involved and interested, you will instill a lifetime passion.
Faculty Sponsor: C.D. CHEVALIER

Evert, Joey. MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION: NORTHWEST FISHERIES INTERNSHIP.

Things I participated in and the multiple research projects I assisted with. All of the lakes, ponds, and Rivers I went to. Also including species that I came in contact with during the duration of my internship.
Faculty Sponsor: CARY CHEVALIER

Hall, Jaymes. MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION OUTREACH AND EDUCATION INTERNSHIP.

An overview and explanation of my summer internship with the missouri department of conservation preforming outreach and education duties.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CAREY CHEVALIER

Hall, Jaymes. MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION OUTREACH AND EDUCATION INTERNSHIP.

An overview and explanation of my summer internship with the missouri department of conservation preforming outreach and education duties.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CAREY CHEVALIER

McNutt, Tori. MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION: AN INTERNSHIP WITH THE FISHERIES DEPARTMENT.

This is a collection of events and studies that occurred over an internship Summer of 2015 with the Fisheries Department of the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER

Roberton, Daniel. CONDUCTING BIRD SURVEYS FOR THE INTERMOUNTAIN BIRD OBSERVATORY.

My internship took me to SW Montana; where I worked for the Intermountain Bird Observatory (IBO). The IBO is an academic research, and community outreach program. From early-May to late-July, IBO staff conducts point-count surveys throughout most of Idaho, Montana, as a part of the Integrated Monitoring in Bird Conservation Regions (IMBCR) program coordinated by Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory (RMBO) and partners. We survey approximately 100 transects in each state each year, (funded by the US Forest Service Region 1 and the Great Northern Landscape Conservation Cooperative). This is a coordinated bird monitoring effort that currently spans 12 western states. I underwent intense bird ID training and backcountry orientation. I traveled extensively to reach the various survey locations, some located in remote country requiring backpacking and primitive camping. I learned a lot about Montana habitats and associated wildlife. I learned how to do extensive bird surveys alone in remote country. This was an amazing experience during which I learned and practice a wide variety of skills and techniques.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY CHEVALIER

Routh, Billie. MISSOURI CONSERVATION DEPARTMENT SUMMER 2015 INTERNSHIP AND WALNUT TWIG BEETLE SURVEY.

This presentation provides a summary of my internship duties with the Missouri Conservation Departments Northwest regional office from the Summer of 2015. The presentation specifically focuses on the Thousand Cankers Disease and Walnut Twig Beetle Survey.
Faculty Sponsor: CARY CHEVALIER

Scott, Erin. WILDLIFE REHABILITATION INTERNSHIP.

Wildlife rehabilitation is the treatment and care of injured, orphaned or sick wildlife that can be released back into the wild. This is also includes juveniles and adults who have been injured or ill in some way. Over the summer of 2015 I was an intern at Lakeside Nature Center a wildlife rehabilitation center in Kansas City, MO. While working there I was trained how to care for all the different types of animals that pass though their doors and how to treat all kinds of injuries from concussions, bites, to broken bones. I also learned the specialized feeding needs of the different species of animals that would come in. I also interacted with the public who would bring in wildlife. My experiences at Lakeside have given me experience and skills that I believe will be helpful to me when I start my professional career working in the field of Wildlife Conservation and Management.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY CHEVALIER

Stalker, Jasmine. APPLIED LEARNING THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS: WILDLIFE REHABILITATION AND RE-RELEASE.

Wildlife rehabilitation is the treatment and care of injured, orphaned or sick wildlife that can be released back into the wild. This includes babies whose mother was killed to adults who have been injured in some way. Over the summer of 2015 I was an intern at Operation Wildlife (OWL.) a wildlife rehabilitation organization in Linwood KS. While working at OWL I learned firsthand what it is like to run a rehabilitation center. I learned the care of all the different types of animals that pass though their doors and how to treat all kinds of injuries from a concussion clear to broken bones. I also learned how to feed the different species of baby animals that would come in because they are all taken care of differently. I learned to interact with the public who would bring in wildlife. My experiences at OWL have given me experience and skills that I believe will be helpful to me when I start my professional career working in the field of Wildlife Conservation and management.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER

Wishman, Mackenzie Steinlage, Matt Evert, Joey Ridenour, Coltin. SQUAW CREEK MAMMALOGY RESEARCH PROJECT 2015.

Squaw Creek Mammalogy Research Project 2015 Mackenzie Wischmann, Matt Steinlage, Joey Evert, Coltin Ridenour We plan on setting up 2 sets of 6 camera traps up in 2 separate habitats, coming out to 12 total cameras recording data. The 13 camera is going to be used as a back up in case something happens to 1 of the cameras in use. Each will be place 20 meters from each other on the semi-grid that we will set up to make sure there in line with each other. 2 cameras will be low to the ground, 2 cameras will be at normal height, and the final 2 cameras will be angled up to catch any specimens that are up the trees. After 2 weeks the cameras will be picked up and moved 40 meters west and set up so that they are facing east and then the study will be repeated for another 2 weeks. During the duration of this study our 11 cameras captured crows, coyotes, Eagles, Raptors, deer, raccoons, opossum, woodpeckers, and Canada geese. Our research was mainly focused on trying to capture images and videos of flying squirrels but we were unable to visually see any of them. Our cameras that were facing up only captured various birds and the ones looking straight out or down did not capture any either and we believe that is because flying squirrels rarely make it to the ground.
Faculty Sponsor: CARY CHEVALIER

Literature Reviews

Bartlett, Jenice; McNutt, Tori; Scott, Erin. NATURAL HISTORY & CONSERVATION OF ORCA.

To provide the natural history of Orcinus orca and the associated laws and conservation management.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY CHEVALIER

Bolander, Bethany; Gray, Nina; Gunderson, Jessica. PHYSIOLOGICAL AND ECOLOGICAL ADAPTATIONS OF SMALL MAMMALS IN DESERT ENVIRONMENTS.

Desert environments are heavily characterized by lack of available water and extremely low humidity levels. Over time, mammals have become adapted to these kinds of environments through various physiological and ecological ways. The purpose of this review poster is to discuss the adaptations that small mammals have formed to survive in these harsh habitats. Small mammals were chosen because they are the root of many adaptation experiments and have a wide range of body temperature, water excretion, and evaporative water loss. Focusing mainly on North and South American small mammals, the poster also briefly discusses a comparison between desert-dwelling and non-desert-dwelling mammals in regards to water loss. The importance of studying this topic is to further understand adaptations and evolutionary changes as a result of the environment.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER

Brown, Steven; Cornelius, Holly; Pauley, Brittany. LIFE HISTORY AND CONSERVATION OF AFRICAN RHINOS.

African rhinos have been persecuted to the edge of extinction by poachers because of their prized horns. To combat this population devastation, wildlife biologists and the public at large have come together to find ways to protect African rhinos. This poster explains a few of these techniques as well as the basic life history of these mega-herbivores.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY CHEVALIER

Bryan, Bailey \ Williams, Nicholas \ Eber, Eli \ Stalker, Jasmine. BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION OF THE NORTH AMERICAN MOOSE.

The North American Moose, Alces alces, is an iconic cervid found in the northern regions of the United States. Its conservation is based primarily from population statistics, though various biological factors such as available resources and brain worm prevalence effect its range, distribution, and behavior. This poster reflects various research studies and informational texts about the moose and its ecology.
Faculty Sponsor: C. D. CHEVALIER

Bryan, Bailey \ Williams, Nicholas \ Eber, Eli \ Stalker, Jasmine. BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION OF THE NORTH AMERICAN MOOSE.

The North American Moose, Alces alces, is an iconic cervid found in the northern regions of the United States. Its conservation is based primarily from population statistics, though various biological factors such as available resources and brain worm prevalence effect its range, distribution, and behavior. This poster reflects various research studies and informational texts about the moose and its ecology.
Faculty Sponsor: C. D. CHEVALIER

Krigbaum, Logan; Bishop, Deric; Thomas, Brad.. THE AFRICAN ELEPHANT IVORY TRADE.

To provide a literature review on the status of Ivory trade in the United States. Discussing the ban that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Congress has put on ivory imports.
Faculty Sponsor: DR CHEVALIER

Hall, Jaymes; Caudill, Brielle; Rosenow, Colin. NATURAL HISTORY AMD CONSERVATION OF PRONGHORN .

A poster abput the natural history, morphology, and conservation efforts of the Pronghorn (Antelopcapra americana).
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CAREY CHEVALIER

Stewart, Laren Tomlinson, Daven Packham, Alycia. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY AND ECOLOGY OF HUMPBAVK WHALES.

This poster is on the humpback whale from a biological and ecological standpoint. We talk about how these whales feed and their reproduction to conservation efforts to save these whales.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY CHEVALIER

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

Analytical Papers and Analyses

Warren, Steven. COMPUTATIONAL STUDY OF AZAPHOSPHOLE DIMERS.

The self-assembly of azaphosphole derivatives have been explored through computational chemistry. Azaphosphole may serve as a unique motif for supramolecular crystal engineering. Structures were optimized at the HF/6-31+G(d) level and then refined using B3LYP/6-311++G(2df,p). The effects of different substituents, tautomerization, and rotational isomerism on the self-assembly equilibrium constant were explored.
Faculty Sponsor: WOODFORD

Empirical Projects

Luke, Alex. NEURAL NETWORKS: TREATING AMERICAN TRYPANOSOMIASIS.

American trypanosomiasis, as known as Chagas disease, is a neglected tropical disease that has infected over 8 million individuals living in Mexico and areas of South America. This deadly disease, brought on by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi can cause severe cardiac and neurological alterations, even death. Treatment is available if caught shortly after infection. However, the only compounds currently used are very toxic and their efficacy declines even days after infection. Furthermore, the majority infected come from an area with low funding to support research of said therapies. This presentation seeks to explore new active compounds against Chagas disease.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. STAN SVOJANOVSKY

DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE/LEGAL STUDIES/SOCIAL WORK

Analytical Papers and Analyses

Miller, Maranda . SOCIAL WORKERS : PERCEPTIONS OF AGENCY POLICIES FOR ONLINE USE: A KNEEJERK REACTION .

This exploratory study comprised of 14 Social Workers was conducted to understand whether policies were in place to guide professional and personal behaviors when assessing Social Networking Sites (SNSs). There was a gap in clear polices or guidelines for professional and personal use. If there was a policy in place it came as a result of a kneejerk reaction to an event.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. PAM CLARY

Empirical Projects

Bullmaster, Rhonda. TYPES OF ONLINE TRAINING USED IN CORRECTIONS.

This study examined the state usage of Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) within the training departments of correctional agencies. The purpose of this study was to identify the types of online training utilized by the sample states. The research team decided to use a semi-structured phone interview to examine the Department of Corrections usage of online training within a fixed sample which consisted of eight states (N=8) surrounding Missouri. Representatives delegated from each state’s IRB were provided as respondents to the survey. Analysis of the data provided shows that the use of co-blended E-Learning training programs does, in fact, have a multitude of advantages such as flexibility, accessibility and cost effectiveness.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. LINDSTEADT

Talley, Antwanette. YMCA STUDENT ENRICHMENT PROGRAM.

I am going to explain what the program is, what our mission is, where it is provided, how it is funded, what we do in our program, what all we have to offer to the public, and etc.
Faculty Sponsor: MATT LOEHR

Walsh, Andrea. ARE SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS READY FOR FIELD PLACEMENT?.

\\\\\\\\r\\\\\\\\nThis paper focuses on how social work \r\n\\r\\nstudents \\\\r\\\\nat \\\\\\\\r\\\\\\\\nMissouri Western \r\nState \\r\\nUniversity and of \\\\r\\\\nthe \r\n\\\\\\\\r\\\\\\\\nbaccalaureate \\r\\nlevel are being \r\nprepared for \\\\r\\\\nfield \\r\\n\\\\\\\\r\\\\\\\\nplacement. \r\n\\\\\\\\r\\\\\\\\nThis paper will focus on \\r\\n\\\\r\\\\nthe \r\ncharacteristics and \\\\\\\\r\\\\\\\\nthe components \r\n\\r\\nof a \\\\r\\\\nsuccessful practicum placement \r\n\\\\\\\\r\\\\\\\\nin \\r\\nthe MWSU \\\\r\\\\nSocial work \r\nprogram. \\\\\\\\r\\\\\\\\n
Faculty Sponsor: DR. MATTHEW LOEHR

Internship/Practicum Experience

McDuffy, Brittany. SHADOWING EXPERIENCE AT SPRING VALLEY BAPTIST CHURCH.

At Spring Valley Baptist Church in Raytown, MO I have completed forty hours of volunteer work under John Still, who serves as a youth leader at the facility. My work revolved around trying to involve all members in the community regardless of race or socioeconomic status within the facility. The services we offer include a clothing closet, monthly dinners, and various other outreach efforts. These activities relate to the mission of the church as well as many duties of a social worker in a similar position.
Faculty Sponsor: MATT LOEHR

Oswalt, Madeline. SUNRISE CHILDREN'S HOME SHADOWING EXPERIENCE .

At the Sonrise Children’s Home in Princeton, MO I completed forty hours of volunteer work under the supervision of Jane Wilmes, who runs the Sonrise Children’s Home. This home has twelve teenagers living in it, whose parents do not have guardianship of them. This home is a way for kids to prepare themselves for graduation, they all attend school and are on the right track. My work was revolved around talking to the kids and making sure that they were doing good, I was someone they could talk to that was close to there age, and understood some of the problems they were facing.
Faculty Sponsor: MATT LOEHR

Talley, Antwanette. YMCA STUDENT ENRICHMENT PROGRAM.

As part of the course requirement for Introduction to Social Work SWK250 students are required to do a 40 hour job shadow in a social service agency. My poster presentation will focus upon the services provided, funding sources, and the mission of the YMCA Student Enrichment Program. This service is a before and after school program provides for children enrolled in elementary school in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Faculty Sponsor: MATT LOEHR

Literature Reviews

Golden, Jessica. TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families is a program whose history dates back to 1935. This research proposal traces its history from then to the present time. Political beliefs which have influenced this program are discussed. It discusses the changes that have evolved through time. A focus is given to recent legislation modifying the program which will be implemented on January 1, 2016. It focuses on the recent changes and the population that will be affected in Missouri after it is enacted. This research proposal presents alternative solutions to financial problems which recipients may experience as a result of these changes.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. LOHER

Walsh, Andrea. FIELD PLACEMENT READINESS.

Alumni from the BSW Program at Missouri Western State University were interviewed that were seen as successful in their placement by the coordinator of practicum and by self report. Additionally Field Instructors from the BSW program at Missouri Western State University were interviewed as well that were seen as successful options for student placements according to the field office. A total of N=22 tape recorded interviews were completed by the class and were content analyzed for re-occurring themes. Utilization of a Strengths Perspective was the primary lens used in developing the research instrument and the interpretation of data.
Faculty Sponsor: MATTHEW LOEHR

URSI Project

Bayless, Nicole. THE BENEFITS TO ONLINE EDUCATION IN CORRECTIONS.

This study was used to examine the benefits to online education tools for training and education purposes in the corrections field. With technology advancing and budgets decreasing, utilizing online education and training is a needed change. Data discussing online education and training was collected from eight states utilizing both semi- structured interviews and state reports. It is expected that the corrections officials interviewed in the sample will report that using online education will benefit the correctional facility with cost savings and reduction of labor hours, as well as raise the education standards with correctional officers. Research indicates that Arkansas and Iowa had examined cost benefits. The data indicated that only 6 of the 8 states utilized online education and training at all.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. GREG LINDSTEADT

Walker-Ambrozi, Dwania. UTILIZATION OF ONLINE TRAINING IN CORRECTIONS.

Education and training is an important component in the Corrections industry. With a substantial amount of employees & agencies,training has become difficult with budgeting, scheduling & resources with the traditional face to face classroom format. This paper will focus on how E- learning/Online training can play an important role in the Corrections industry.E-learning/ Online training has potential to offer many benefits in the Corrections field. Saving time, money and the benefit of keeping employees across the state with consistent and up-to-date information on new policies & procedures. We will be examining a select group of states in the Midwest, asking open and closed ended questions. The results indicate many factors played an important role in the states DOC’s budgeting and spending.
Faculty Sponsor: PROFESSOR GREGORY LINDSTEADT

DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

Empirical Projects

Helm, Matthew. SOLAR ENERGY CHARGER.

There are many solar based usb charging devices on the market. However, most deliver little more than a trickle of power. My project looks to optimize charging times for connected devices in a solar USB charging setup, while preventing excess power loss. My project is designed to be lightweight and portable, suitable for outdoor experiences.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. JINWEN ZHU

Jones, Aaron. MICRO ENERGY HARVESTING.

Everyday humans travel from place to place. In doing so there is a lot of energy exerted. In a world looking for clean energy solutions, we need to take advantage of every bit of energy we can. Certain materials, when deformed, produce electrical energy via the Piezoelectric Effect. My project takes advantage that ability to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy and uses that energy in low power applications. The device I designed uses mechanical energy produced from humans when they walk. The device is designed to fit into a shoe and charge a small battery as a person walks.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. JINWEN ZHU

DEPARTMENT OF HONORS

Analytical Papers and Analyses

Kipping, Courtney. RELIGIOUS OBSCENITIES IN OFFENSIVE HUMOR.

There is an abundance of humor based on religion in today's society, but how far is too far? This study conducted a survey targeting Christianity, Catholicism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and Atheism. On the survey were harsh jokes about the various religions listed above, and participants ranked the jokes on a scale of 0-10. The findings were skewed because the only participants that took the survey were Agnostic, Atheist, Catholic, Christian, or other. Putting that aside, the results were varied. All together the jokes thought the funniest were Jewish jokes and the least funny were the Buddhist jokes. Stating that the jokes ranked the highest by the were mostly about the holocaust, it proves Morrell's Relief Theory and also the necessity to be detached from a certain thing to find it humorous.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHURCH

Wagner, Jacob. THE GENDER OF SLAPSTICK COMEDY.

This paper examines how men and women appreciate slap-stick comedy and which gender has a greater appreciation for it and why. Studies have shown that men and women appreciate different types of humor, but none has found a correlation between gender and the appeal of physical humor. My original opinion was that men appreciate physical, slap-stick comedy more than women, and I was correct. According to a survey, ranking slap-stick comedy skits from 1(least funny) to 10(most funny), men had an average rating of 6.15 while women had an average rating of 4.94. Research has found that women are more likely to like light, romantic humor and men are more likely to appreciate dark, violent humor. The reason for this is not as simple as presumed gender roles but actually has to do with the psychology of the mind and the kinds of experiences we have had in our lifetime.
Faculty Sponsor: BILL CHURCH

DEPARTMENT OF NURSING

Analytical Papers and Analyses

Allen, LaJoyce; Asher, Samantha; Cato, Jessica; Guess, Sheena; Mathias, Taylor; Thomas, Hunter.. EXAMINING PREFERENCES AND HAPPINESS IN NURSING HOME RESIDENTS.

For some time now long-term care facilities have been focused on patient centered care and the way it effects outcomes of a person’s health. This study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between personal preferences in long-term care settings and the outcome it has on happiness and longevity. Originally the Preferences of Everyday Living Inventory (PELI) and Subjective Happiness scale were being used, but due to subjects’ inability to complete the lengthy questionnaire accompanied with the PELI tool, it was replaced with the Person Centered Care Interview. Once a more suitable method of retrieving the data was found, it became easier to determine what personal preferences are important to people living in long-term care and how well those preferences are being met. Once there is enough data to be able to grasp how well those preferences are being met, the individual’s happiness can then be measured to see how that is effecting their longevity. 229 surveys were collected from residents living in 17 long-term care communities in the area. While some weak correlations were noted between a few of the preference satisfactions and happiness, there were no strong correlations noted.
Faculty Sponsor: STEPHANIE STEWART

Empirical Projects

Brown, Shelby, Carter, Jessica, Mabury, Quentin, Mangual, Christian, Mann, Jo, Mobley, Peyton, Spurgeon, Alexis, Trites, Allegra. FAMILY INTERACTION, PERSONALITY & SPIRITUAL WELL-BEING ON OLDER PEOPLE'S PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING.

The purpose of this study was to exam the influences of family interaction, personality and spiritual well-being on the older people’s psychological well-being. This was a cross sectional, descriptive design. The questionnaires were used to do the data collection. There were 68 older people were recruited from community. The mean age was 70.19, 35.3% male and 64.7% female. Older people whose parents used involvement family interaction had higher score of psychological well-being. Older people whose parents used inconsistent discipline, harsh discipline and negative family interaction had lower score of psychological well-being. Older people who had higher total scores of positive personality, open and active, agreeableness, conscientiousness, emotional stability, and intellect had higher score of psychological well-being. Older people who had higher score of spiritual well-being, higher score of faith/belief, life and self-responsibility, and higher score of life satisfaction and self-actualization had higher score of psychological well-being. Therefore, there were statistically significant relationships between family interaction, personality and spiritual well-being on the older people’s psychological well-being.
Faculty Sponsor: PI-MING YEH

Jackson, Amanda. CAN INDIVIDUALIZED INTERVENTIONS POSITIVELY AFFECT THE FALL RATE OF NURSING HOME RESIDENTS? .

Falls are a serious problem among the older population. There’s current research supporting the fact that falls can be fatal for the elderly, this makes fall prevention a vital education piece when it comes to long term care. There are many studies supporting the idea that individualized interventions can positively affect fall rates. This study looked at falls in long term care and the possible causes surrounding them. Medications, primary medical diagnosis and physical capabilities of the residents were analyzed. As a result of this analysis individualized education plans for each resident were created. This pilot study included a total of 10 participants, chosen based upon their ability to ambulate and receive instructions. Ultimately teaching plans were distributed to the appropriate staff who will be working with the residents on an individual basis. The residents will be assisted to complete these plans several times per week. Researchers will then follow up in 6 months after the start of the program to see if there has been any decline in the fall rates among these residents.
Faculty Sponsor: STEPHANIE STEWART

Rickwa, Katelyn A.; Sampsell, Stefani B.; Hurt, Lanie Y.; Stumpner, Natalie R.; Anderson, Nicholas W.; Cheyenne Vanden Bos; John Chege. THE INFLUENCES OF ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, AND COPING STRATEGIES ON OLDER PEOPLE??S SUICIDAL IDEATION..

The purpose of this study was to exam the influences of anxiety, depression, and coping strategies on older people’s suicidal ideation. This was a cross sectional, descriptive research design. The structured questionnaires were used to do the data collection. There were 68 older people were recruited from community. The mean age is 70.19 (SD = 6.18), range (60-90). There were 35.3% Male and 64.7% Female. The results indicated that the following variables had significant relationships with older people’s suicidal ideation: anxiety (r = 0.597, p = 0.000), depression (r = 0.649, p = 0.000), and emotional focused disengagement coping (r = 0.418, p = 0.000). According to Multiple Regression, depression, anxiety, and emotional focused disengagement coping strategies were significant predictors of older people’s suicidal ideation in this study.
Faculty Sponsor: YEH, PI-MING

Literature Reviews

Anderson, Kyla; Briggs, Jodi; Mueller, Anna; Spears, Joslyn. PREVENTION OF COMPASSION FATIGUE IN ONCOLOGY NURSING.

Prevention of Compassion Fatigue in Oncology Nursing Abstract Compassion fatigue (CF) results from intense contact with terminally ill patients and their families. Symptoms can include depression, low self-esteem, work related errors, cynicism towards patients, personality changes, and other interpersonal problems. The purpose of this project is to identify evidence-based prevention of CF for oncology nurses. The Iowa Model was used as a project framework. Findings suggest effective prevention and treatment for CF include: resiliency programs, on-site resources, educational programs and expressive writing workshops to promote self-care. The positive effects of CF prevention is evidenced through reduced attrition, increased quality of care, and patient satisfaction.
Faculty Sponsor: CRYSTAL HARRIS, PH.D., R.N.

Atkinson, Jason; Howard, Francene; Martin, Ramona. COMPASSION FATIGUE PREVENTION FOR EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT NURSES .

Compassion fatigue is a combination of physical, emotional, and spiritual depletion that occurs when health care providers exercise high levels of energy and compassion to care for patients or victims of trauma who are suffering, often without seeing improvement. Is there a high incidence of compassion fatigue among emergency department (ED) nurses? Are there preventive interventions available to combat compassion fatigue? The IOWA model of Evidenced Based Practice was used as a framework to address these questions. A literature review was conducted to explore the prevalence of compassion fatigue as well as determine evidence-based interventions for increasing compassion satisfaction in high intense environments. Evidence concerning compassion fatigue among nurses working in the emergency setting is limited. Three articles focused on the measurement of compassion fatigue and preventive strategies. All used the Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL) as an estimation of the incidence of compassion fatigue. ED nurses are at risk for compassion fatigue. Evidence supporting specific interventions to decrease compassion fatigue is limited but do suggest that organizational prevention programs may help maximize caregiver's level of compassion satisfaction and reduce the risks of developing compassion fatigue. Awareness needs to be raised regarding the impact of compassion fatigue and educational strategies should be implemented.
Faculty Sponsor: DR CRYSTAL HARRIS

Diggs, Taylor; Bernhardt, Brooke; Officer, Zach; Sands, Savannah; Roberts, Devin. LAUGHING TO LIFE: ONE ALTERNATIVE TO EPIDURALS IN LABOR.

Decades of research in the use of epidural analgesia have shaped a modern standard of pain relief for laboring women. However, the use of nitrous oxide as a substitute for epidural pain relief in labor has become a recent topic of interest. The side effects of nitrous oxide are minimal when compared to those of epidurals, but nitrous oxide lacks in its analgesic effects (NCBI, 1). Yet, the benefits of nitrous oxide seem to outweigh the possibility of the mother experiencing slightly more pain. As research in this area continues, more opportunities are available to ensure the most evidence based and effective measures are taken in controlling labor pain. This study examines the use of epidural and nitrous oxide in labor analgesia, along with differences, benefits, and risks between using both types of interventions. After analyzing both forms of labor analgesia, the conclusion was made that nitrous oxide presents as a safer alternative to epidural analgesia and gives ample benefits for both mother and baby.
Faculty Sponsor: JILL MORSBACH

Hagee, Serenity, Jarnagin, Katie, Morgan, Brittany, Mullen Danielle, Swymeler, Shelby. THE EFFECTS OF NURSING BURNOUT ON NURSING CARE AND PATIENT OUTCOMES.

Burnout is a condition a person suffers from when exhausted mentally and physically, experiencing a decrease in personal accomplishment, and depersonalization in others. When a nurse experiences burnout, their patients suffer the consequences. This literature review focuses on nursing burnout in the acute care setting and how it relates to the risk of nosocomial infections, length of hospital stay, and mortality. The increase in nosocomial infections, length of hospital stay, and mortality will cost hospitals, insurance companies, and patients more than just money, it may cost some their lives. The inclusion criteria combined research articles/journals published in the last thirteen years, with more current articles/journals were given priority. We believe if nurses better care for themselves and practice with mindfulness we can decrease the risk of nosocomial infections, length of hospital stays, and mortality rates.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CRISTI CAMPBELL

Hoover, Faith. MOTIVATORS & DETERRENTS FOR NURSING STUDENT PARTICIPATION IN STUDY ABROAD: A LITERATURE REVIEW.

This literature review aims to identify reasons \r\nstudents choose whether or not to participate in \r\nstudy abroad programs during their undergraduate \r\nacademic career as these programs have been shown \r\nto have many benefits both academically and \r\nsocially but with little participation, especially \r\nin nursing. This review was conducted as a \r\npreliminary step in a study to determine the \r\nmotivators and deterrents for nursing students to \r\nparticipate in study abroad opportunities and was \r\nable to suggest domains to include in the \r\ndevelopment of the descriptive part of this \r\nstudy. \r\n\r\nKeywords: study abroad, nursing, learning abroad, \r\nnursing students
Faculty Sponsor: JULIE BALDWIN

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY

Empirical Projects

Boner, Courtney; Francis, Caitlyn; Hadsall, Centenary; Herlihy, Elizabeth; Smalley, Rachel; Webster, Michelle. DID YOU MEAN TO SAY THAT? INTERPRETATION OF EMOTICONS AS NONVERBAL CONVERSATION CUES.

Texting has become a powerful tool in communication. In this study we examined how the use of emoticons influences interpretation of a text-message conversation. Participants (n=146) read a text message conversation and then completed a questionnaire which asked them to rate each of the two speakers in their excitement, flirtatiousness, sarcasm, and sincerity. Independent-samples t-tests indicate that when emoticons were used in the conversation, both speakers were rated significantly higher in excitement, flirtatiousness, and sarcasm across all gender conditions. Results also showed that emoticon use may hint to romantic intent in communication.
Faculty Sponsor: CHRISTINE ZIEMER

Roach, E., Anderson, L., Jennings, K., Marco, J., Barton, K., Edwards, H.. THE EFFECT OF GESTURES ON MEMORY RECALL: A DEBRIEFING STUDY.

The purpose of this study was to find whether hand gestures improve memory recall in the debriefing process. We created three conditions of structured debriefing videos based on Kolb’s guidelines (Dennehy, Sims & Collins, 1998). We measured our participants by having them read an article, then watch a debriefing video that included meaningful hand gestures, or vague hand gestures or no hand gestures. Then, they answered questions about the article. In this study, we found no difference in the memory recall between the three separate conditions. Dennehy, R. F., Sims, R. R., & Collins, H. E. (1998). Debriefing experiential learning exercises: A theoretical and practical guide for success. Journal of Management Education, 22(1), 9-25.
Faculty Sponsor: LISA JO ELLIOTT

Snyder, Makenna. INVESTIGATING INFANTS?? ACTIONS TOWARDS SCREEN-PROJECTED IMAGES, PHOTOGRAPHS, AND OBJECTS.

Today’s infants encounter touch-screen technology at a much higher rate than previous generations. Do infants treat screen-displayed images like passive 2D photographs or like interactive 3D objects? Exploratory behaviors exhibited by 9-month-old infants towards photographs, objects, and screen-projected images were compared in order to understand how infants treat screen images as compared to other 2D and 3D stimuli. Our data suggests that although screen images are arguably more similar to 2D photographs, infants are picking up on the interactive nature of screens and treating these images as if they should be able to manipulate them manually.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHRISTINE ZIEMER