Program for the Fall 2017 Multidisciplinary Research Day
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY
Analytical Papers and Analyses
Felder, Eternity. THE EFFECTS OF SUPPLEMENTAL RED LEDS ON RADISH SEEDS GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT. .
Plants get energy from light through a process called photosynthesis, and without light plants would not be able to produce the energy needed for growth and development. The detection of light in plants is carried out by several light photoreceptors. As a result, different types of lights could have different effects on plant development. Red lights are efficient at converting electricity into photosynthetic photons and this may enhance plant growth and development. So, if there is a positive relationship between red light and growth then the radishes with treatment RW should have larger plants in comparison to treatment W. After four weeks, the shoot and root dry weight of the radishes were higher in RW. The leaves were also larger and the overall height of the plant was also significantly higher in the RW plants. However, the rigidness of the stems and the thickness of the radish leaves showed no significant differences among either treatment. The results illustrate that the radish plants grown under the RW lights had better growth and development. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA
Danielle Hubbard, Brittney Pauley, Greg Hillier . THE AFFECTS OF SALT WATER ON BEAN PLANTS .
The effects of salt water on bean plants and how they react
under different concentrations of salt. Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA
Empirical Projects
Abrahamson, Levi. GERMINATION OF A HERB SPECIES FROM LEAF EXTRACTS OF INVASIVE HONEYSUCKLE .
Lonicera maackii, an invasive species
\r\n\\r\\n\\\\r\\\\nderived from Asia, found in
forests and \r\nopen \\r\\nareas \\\\r\\\\nin the
Eastern and Midwestern \r\nNorth \\r\\nAmerica,
has \\\\r\\\\nmassive effects on \r\nplants
located \\r\\nin and around \\\\r\\\\nthe
\r\nunderstory. In this study we \\r\\ntested the
idea \r\n\\\\r\\\\nthat adding a leaf extract
\\r\\nsolution to \r\nseedlings \\\\r\\\\nof a
different species, \r\n\\r\\nBrassica rapa,
in \\\\r\\\\nvarious \r\n\\r\\nconcentrations. Our
findings showed that \r\n\\\\r\\\\nthere \\r\\nwas
a stunt in the levels of \r\ngermination in
\\r\\n\\\\r\\\\nthe higher concentrations
\r\ncompared to the \\r\\nlower \\\\r\\\\nones.
This implies \r\nthat the L. \\r\\nmaackii
can \\\\r\\\\ninhibit \r\nthe germination of
\\r\\nother plants allowing \r\n\\\\r\\\\nit to be
a successful \\r\\ninvasive species. Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA
Baker, Ethan. HOW DIFFERENT COLORED LIGHTS EFFECT PLANT GROWTH .
This experiment focused on the effects of
\r\n\\r\\ndifferent colored light on plant growth.
For \r\nour \\r\\nexperiment we used been plants
planted two \r\nat a \\r\\ntime in a small clay
pot. Once the plants \r\nbegan to \\r\\ngrow they
were exposed to different \r\ncolored
\\r\\nlights. I hypothesized that the plants
\r\nthat were \\r\\nexposed to blue light would
show the \r\nmost growth \\r\\nand the plants
exposed to green \r\nlight would show \\r\\nthe
least amount of growth Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA
Bryant, Will Koelling, Blake. MOUNTAIN GOAT RESEARCH POSTER.
Poster is about Mountain goats\\\\\\\'s habitat,
diet, \r\n\\r\\n\\\\r\\\\nconservation, and
reproduction in North \r\n\\r\\nAmerica. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER
Campbell, Kaitlyn. TRANSPIRATION IN GERANIUM LEAF.
Measuring the transpiration and gas pressure in a
Geranium leaf from a dark setting into a light
setting. Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA
Carter, David; Ryan, Brendan; Hazelwood, Carter; Henning, Kendall. STARCH PRODUCTION IN PLANTS VS RELATIVE TOXICITY.
Over time, plants have evolved a defense mechanism
by producing toxins in the form of striking taste
in order to protect against predators. Humans have
harvested this trait in certain plants in the form
of healthy herbs and ingredients. We also know, as
a product of photosynthesis, plants produce
starch. The ingredients we tested, in respective
order of striking taste were spinach, collard
greens, and cilantro. So, is there a correlation
between the natural defense mechanism of spinach,
collard greens, and cilantro; and these plants’
starch production?
Faculty Sponsor: MICHAEL GRANTHAM
Davidson, Mary. EFFECTS OF RED LIGHT ON HROWTH OF RADISH, RAPHANUS SATIVUS.
The intention of this study was to investigate the response of
increased red-light exposure to the growth of Raphanus
sativus, commonly known as the radish. This red portion of the
electromagnetic spectrum has wavelengths that are between
620-780 nanometers. The red light was sourced by 90-watt
light bulbs and the natural sunlight was substituted by 6500-
Kelvin LED lights. The results were not the results expected,
due to the bulb portion of the radish not producing in the
allotted length of time. The stem and leaf portions, however,
did follow a trend of increased biomass with the increased red-
light exposure. This gives initial evidence that red light affects
the growth of radishes, but should be further studied with an
altered method.
Faculty Sponsor: DR BARTA
DeLee, Naniolyn; Langley, Caroline; Thomason, Tatum; Karns, Neiley. ESTIMATING OSMOLARITY BY CHANGE IN WEIGHT OF DIFFERENT SUBSTANCES.
Osmosis is a form of passive transport which
involves water traveling from an area of low
solute concentration to an area of high solute
concentration. In this experiment, we tested the
osmolarity of different substances by comparing
the amount of water each absorbed when immersed in
a solution of various molarities of water and
sucrose. The substances we tested in this
experiment were a Golden Delicious apple and Idaho
Russet potato.
Faculty Sponsor: MICHAEL GRANTHAM
Tabri Dickson, Mackenzie Marks, and Colt Roth. O2: PLANT VERSUS ANIMALS.
In many organisms, there are reactions that occur
to break down compounds and materials that are
processed through our bodies and various other
organisms. These processes are aided by energy and
enzymes to break these substances down. The use of
enzymes in the liver are what turn present
hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. This
process happens with the help of a catalase in the
liver. The catalase is also present in a plants
like a potato just in smaller amounts in
comparison to the liver. The experiment preformed
used a substance called hydrogen peroxide and the
mixtures of liver cells and potato cells to
replicate the process that occurs spontaneously in
the organisms themselves. The experiment tested
the concentration of the cells and the amount of
oxygen produced. This simulating the levels of
catalase and therefore oxygen produced.
Faculty Sponsor: DR CSENGELE BARTA
Fry, Justin and Herring, Aaron . DIET AND DISTRIBUTION OF COYOTE (CANIS LATRANS) .
Describing the habitat, diet, and distribution of
\r\n\\r\\ncoyotes in North America. Focusing on
how the \r\n\\r\\ncoyote interacts with its
environment and \r\nother \\r\\nindividuals. Faculty Sponsor: CARY D. CHEVALIER
Herring, Aaron. PRIVATE LANDS MANAGER INTERNSHIP.
This is about my internship with the Missouri department of conservation that I did over the summer. I helped out with the private lands division and the fisheries. We went and looked over CRP ground to check if it was in regulation and helped to try and get more habitat for quail and pheasant. We also participated in outreach and education programs. Faculty Sponsor: CARY D. CHEVALIER
Herring, Aaron. EFFECTS OF NITROGEN ON CORN.
This poster was about an experiment that I did over the effects of liquid applied nitrogen vs dry nitrogen on corn and how it will impact its yields. I did the research on a field that was planted in early April. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA
Hillier, Greg Hubbard, Danielle Pauley, Brittney. EFFECTS OF HIGH CONCENTRATIONS OF SALT WATER ON PINTO BEANS (PHASEOLUS VULGARIS) GROWTH .
To test what happens to the growth of a plant
after changing the salinity conditions we used
high concentrations of salt water to water typical
pinto bean stalks early on in their development.
We expected to see a small change in height as the
plant grew using the last vestiges of pure water
that may have been left in the soil from a
previous watering. The change we observed was not
what we expected, quite the opposite in fact. This
is more than likely due to the rapid change in
turgidity of the cells and after apoptosis
occurring. For future experiments on plant
salinity lower concentrations of salt water are
suggested as well as plants that have developed a
mechanism that prevents nutrient toxicity for
salt. Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA, CSENGELE
Hoover, Cole. THE IMPORTANCE OF SEED TO SOIL CONTACT.
In this poster I discuss the importance of seed to
soil contact when planting seeds and show what
happens if there is not adequate seed to soil
contact. Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA
Jenkins, Brian. ALLELOPATHIC EFFECTS OF LONICERA MAACKII EXTRACTS ON GERMINATION OF BRASSICA RAPA.
In addition to resource competition, many invasive plants, such as Lonicera maackii, may negatively impact surrounding plants by leaching compounds that inhibit their growth. L. maackii is an invasive shrub native to Asia that invades forests and open areas of the Midwest. IT has devastating effects on the growth of native understory plants and some of these effects remain even after L. maackii has been removed In this study I explored the potential of Lonicera maackii leaf extracts to inhibit the growth of Brassica rapa using toxicity bioassays performed in petri dishes. Inhibitory effects were seen, but they weren’t as pronounced as expected. The effects seen were greater with increasing concentrations. Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA
Lyndsay Lamey, Alex Navinskey, Terrill Davis, Dossou Ndiaye. BEAN GERMINATION.
In this experiment we tested which kinds of
liquids help the growth of beans the best. The
different liquids are carbonated water, diet twist
up soda, Ozark bottled water, distilled water, and
tap water.
Faculty Sponsor: DR CSENGELE BARTA
Gaby Lammoglia, Matthew West. LIFE HISTORY AND CONSERVATION OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN BIGHORN (OVIS CANADENSIS).
The Rocky Mountain Bighorn, Ovis canadensis, is an integral species to montane ecosystems in the Rocky Mountain Range through North America. Although the population has dwindled since first European contact, the species remains plentiful and is regularly trophy hunted for the large headgear from which they get their name. Faculty Sponsor: CARY D. CHEVALIER
Katie Lavelle, Ethan Baker. MEASURING CHLOROPHYLL AND ANTHOCYANIN CONCENTRATION.
Pigments in leaves are due to the concentrations
of chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanin in
the leaf. The goal of this experiment was to
measure the absorption spectrum and calculate the
chlorophyll, carotenoid, and anthocyanin
concentrations of four different colored leaves.
Each leaf was ground to a liquid and centrifuged.
The contents were then transferred to a
spectrophotometer where absorption and wavelength
were measured. Finally, carotenoid, anthocyanin,
and chlorophyll concentrations were calculated.
This experiment resulted in the red leaf with the
greatest concentration of chlorophyll a, the green
leaf with the greatest concentration of
chlorophyll b, the yellow leaf with the greatest
carotenoid concentration, and the red leaf with
the highest anthocyanin concentration.
Faculty Sponsor: DR CSENGELE BARTA
Brian Lee, Chasity Hughes, Mariela Diaz Valdez, Nick Stratton. CELLS IN FREEZING TEMPERATURES.
In this study we investigated the freezing
resistance of animal and plant cells. We found,
that freezing temperatures affect less the plant,
than animal cells. Faculty Sponsor: DR CSENGELE BARTA
Lindstrom, Devon. COFFEE AND EGGSHELL EXPERIMENT.
Within plant nutrition there are various elements that plays a role with the growth and development of plants.There is a home remedy for gardening can be found with the mixture of eggshells and coffee grounds.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA
Kristen Moore, Caleb Klingseis, Sondi Hunter. HOW TO REDUCE PLAQUE BACTERIA CONTENT.
In this experiment we tested whether the different
types of care on teeth made a difference in plaque
quantity. The different care used was toothpaste,
floss, and mouthwash with each added on to show if
what society deemed to have as a healthier smile
is true. Overall what we had discovered though
research and in our experimenting, we can conclude
that more preventative procedure for a healthier
smile to be true.
Faculty Sponsor: DR CSENGELE BARTA
Moore, Mary. EFFECTS OF RED LIGHT EMISSIONS ON INDOOR-GROWN RADISHES.
Light is essential for a plants growth and
development, and the type of light it receives can
greatly impact its development. To test the type
of light on a plant’s growth; radish plants were
grown under 90-watt LED red lights along with a
set of radish plants grown under 60 watt LED white
lights to test the effects of red light against
white light. The radish shoots were measured and
weighed. Our results show that the radishes grown
under red light overall had greater biomass than
the radishes grown under the white light.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA
Moore, Kerry. RED LED LIGHT EFFECTS ON RADISH GROWTH.
Plants use pigments to capture sunlight energy and
use the energy for plant processes such as growth
and photosynthesis. An experiment was conducted to
see the effects of growing radishes with red light
stimulated plant growth compared to non-red light
grown plants. Results could be seen visibly with
the difference in leaves and in their different
masses. Red light grown radish plants had larger
leaves and longer shoot height.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA
Anika Nobs, Taylor Schwartzkopf, Danny Walsh, Michael Gallo, and Daniel VanHorne. THE EFFECT OF BRUSHING TEETH ON BACTERIA FOUND IN PLAQUE.
The experiment that was conducted was to find
the effect that brushed and unbrushed teeth
have on plaque, and the effect that gum and
energy drinks have on the amount of bacteria
found in plaque. We scraped our teeth with
toothpicks to remove the plaque, and then we
made slides, stained them, and got the results
of the experiment by looking at them under a
microscope. For one part of our experiment we
tested the amount of plaque on brushed teeth,
and compared it to the amount of plaque on
brushed teeth after drinking an energy drink.
After that, we tested the amount of plaque on
unbrushed teeth, and the amount of plaque on
unbrushed teeth with gum. We discovered that
the energy drink only adds a minimal amount of
plaque to the teeth, and that gum makes almost
no difference on the amount of plaque on your
teeth. We believed that if you brushed your
teeth there would be less plaque on them, than
if you left your teeth unbrushed, and we proved
this hypothesis to be true.
Faculty Sponsor: DR CSENGELE BARTA
Rachael A. Prawitz, Bethany Bolander, Steven R. Bilby, Jeremy H. Brown, Reid N. Brown, Alexander M. Duryee, Danielle R. Edelman, Christina E. Gray, Chandler Gossett, Amie G. Haddock, Mackenzie M. Hels. IN SITU DARK ADAPTATION ENHANCES THE EFFICIENCY OF DNA EXTRACTION FROM MATURE PIN OAK LEAVES.
Mature oak (Quercus spp.) leaves, although
abundantly available during the plants’
developmental cycle, are rarely exploited as
viable sources of genomic DNA. These leaves are
rich in metabolites difficult to remove during
standard DNA purification, interfering with
downstream molecular genetics applications. The
current work assessed whether in situ dark
adaptation, to deplete sugar reserves and
inhibit secondary metabolite synthesis could
compensate for the difficulties encountered
when isolating DNA from mature leaves rich in
secondary metabolites. We optimized a rapid,
commercial kit based method to extract genomic
DNA from dark- and light-adapted leaves. We
demonstrated that in situ dark adaptation
increases the yield and quality of genomic DNA
obtained from mature oak leaves, yielding
templates of sufficiently high quality for
direct downstream applications, such as PCR
amplification and gene identification. The
quality of templates isolated from dark-adapted
pin oak leaves particularly improved the
amplification of larger fragments in our
experiments. From DNA extracts prepared with
our optimized method, we identified for the
first time partial segments of the genes
encoding 18S rRNA and isoprene synthase (IspS)
from pin oak (Quercus palustris), whose full
genome has not yet been sequenced. Faculty Sponsor: CSENGELE BARTA
Prest, Rebecca, Sapp, Madison, Glise, Joe, Moore, Jaime. EFFECT OF PROBIOTICS ON DEXTRAN SODIUM SULFATE-INDUCED COLITIS IN MICE.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a chronic intestinal
\r\ndisease in which probiotic bacteria have been
\r\nshown to have beneficial effects. We examined
\r\neffects of the probiotic VSL#3 for 3 days of
\r\nrecovery after a 5-day treatment with 3% DSS.
\r\nClinical signs of colitis were observed daily
\r\nduring the treatment and recovery period.
Samples \r\nwere collected for histological
scoring and \r\nanalysis of colonic pro-
inflammatory cytokine \r\nexpression through PCR.
Real-time PCR for MMP-9 \r\nand KC showed a
decrease in expression in the mice \r\ntreated
with VSL#3. In conclusion, 3 days of
\r\ntreatment with VSL#3 following acute DSS-
induced \r\ncolitis did not significantly improve
recovery. Faculty Sponsor: KRISTEN WALTON
We will be performing an experiment testing the
effectiveness of 2 different phases of antacids to
evaluate their neutralizing properties. The
purpose of an antacid it to reduce excess stomach
acid to relieve pain by making the acidic pH of
the stomach more basic. To test this, we will be
recreating the environment of the stomach by using
3 different acidic solutions as a baseline and
test how much their pH rises over the course 5 and
30 minutes, we should expect all of their pH
levels to rise, but some may do so more than the
other. As stated in our prediction, it is
reasonable to think the liquid antacid will be
more effective because it is dissolved it would
react faster. From the results we did conclude
that the liquid antacid appeared to be more
effective. However, from our experiment we learned
from trial and error, and found modifications we
can do to this experiment in the future to have a
more reliable conclusion. Faculty Sponsor: MICHAEL GRANTHAM
Grace Slater-Pinnick, Gabbie Phipps, Manaia Timson. MEASURING CHLOROPHYLL AND ANTHOCYANIN CONCENTRATION IN RED-OSIER DOGWOOD LEAVES.
Since plants get there green color from the
pigments in chlorophyll, we made the hypothesis
that leaves that were turning red, yellow, or
brown would have less chlorophyll than green
leaves. We decided to test our hypothesis using
dogwood leaves and measuring the amount of
chlorophyll with a SpectroVis Plus. Our results
showed there to be lower levels of chlorophyll-a
and chlorophyll-b in the red and yellow leaves
compared to that of the green leaf, supporting our
hypothesis; however, the chlorophyll levels in the
brown leaf was very similar to that of the green
leaf, rejecting our hypothesis. We deemed our
results inconclusive
Faculty Sponsor: DR CSENGELE BARTA
Kaylin Smith, Toni Yeager, Kiah Kitchen. BACTERIA ARE AMONG US.
In this experiment bacteria were examined from
different sources: a pond, a rotten tomato,
termite guts and human teeth. Once the samples
were obtained from each source they were smeared
on a slide, stained, and observed. The results
were then recorded.
Faculty Sponsor: DR CSENGELE BARTA
West, Matthew. EDUCATION INTERNSHIP AT REMINGTON NATURE CENTER.
As Education Intern at Remington Nature Center, I performed multiple maintenance and outreach services. During my time with the Nature Center, I learned valuable skills in animal care as well as the business plan of public nature centers. Additionally, I interacted with the public in regularly scheduled scientific outreach events. Faculty Sponsor: MARK MILLS
Adam Woodrum, Hallie Wilcoxson, Rebekah Landers, Brett Peukert, Kyle Heckenbach. ALCOHOLIC FERMENTATION RATES OF YEAST SOLUTIONS AT VARYING TEMPERATURES.
The purpose of this experiment was to determine
the general effect that temperature has on the
rate of fermentation. The rate of fermentation was
recorded at three different temperatures on an
interval of 10 degrees Celsius. It was concluded
that the higher the temperature, the greater the
rate of fermentation within cells.
Faculty Sponsor: DR CSENGELE BARTA
Internship/Practicum Experience
Daldrup, Cassandra. DICKERSON PARK ZOO INTERNSHIP.
This internship was spent at the Dickerson Park
\r\n\\r\\nZoo in Springfield, Missouri for the
course of \r\na \\r\\nmonth. There were several
tasks to carry out \r\neach \\r\\nday of work,
though the main ones of \r\nconcern were
\\r\\ncleaning and prepping the \r\nenclosures,
diets and \\r\\ndaily care of the \r\nanimals, and
assisting the \\r\\npatrons. In \r\naddition I
learned about how a zoo is \\r\\nrun and \r\nabout
the animals themselves. It also gave \\r\\nme
\r\nexperience in working with the public. This
\r\n\\r\\ninternship was one of my final
requirements \r\nfor my \\r\\ngraduation in the
Conservation program. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER
DeShazo, Madison. OUTREACH AND EDUCATION INTERNSHIP WITH MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION.
This poster presents the internship experience I
completed during Summer 2017. I was a naturalist
aide under the naturalist with the Northwest
regional office of the Missouri Department of
Conservation, Jada Tressler. We hosted a plethora
of programs educating summerschool children, and
the general public in Northwest Missouri. Faculty Sponsor: C. D. CHEVALIER
Domann, Rachael. PROFESSIONAL INTERNSHIP WITH MDC: AN EXAMPLE OF APPLIED LEARNING PARTNERSHIP.....
During summer 2017 I was honored to be selected
for a Fisheries Management internship position
with the Missouri Department of Conservation. I
participated in numerous fish samplings of local
lakes and ponds throughout Northwest Missouri and
the Missouri River. Community samples were done
regularly to allow the public the information of
conditions of a particular body of water. This
internship not only allowed me the tools and
education to better myself for future employment,
it got me excited for my future in conservation
and possibly fisheries management. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY D. CHEVALIER
Hayden, Tasha. MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION APPLIED INTERNSHIP: FISHERIES.
I worked with the Missouri Department of
Conservation in the fisheries division in the
summer of 2017. Over the summer I acquired a lot
of skills and knowledge. I participated in
population surveys using a technique called
electrofishing. I also learned habitat management
skills. I also helped with planting aquatic plants
as well as spray aquatic and terrestrial invasive
plants. My favorite part of the experience was the
fishing clinics. I love working with kids and
helping them learn. This was a dream job and I was
very grateful to have had this applied learning
experience. Faculty Sponsor: CARY D. CHEVALIER
Hoover, Cole. PERSHING PARK INTERNSHIP.
In this poster I explain what activities I
participated in working for the Missouri
Department of Natural Resources during my summer
internship at Pershing State Park. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER
Kiefer, Josie . EDUCATION AND OUTREACH: NATURAL RESOURCE AIDE; WALLACE STATE PARK CAMERON, MO.
The mission statement of the Missouri state park
\r\nsystem is to preserve and interpret the
state’s \r\nmost outstanding natural landscapes
and cultural \r\nlandmarks, and to provide
outstanding recreational \r\nopportunities
compatible with those resources. I \r\nconducted
my internship with Lana Woody, Wallace \r\nState
Park Superintendent, in the summer of 2017 \r\nat
Wallace State Park. During that time, I gained
\r\nexperience at the ground level on how a state
park \r\nin Missouri is ran and how to deliver a
very well \r\ndeveloped park program. Faculty Sponsor: CARY D. CHEVALIER
Malone, Steph. SUMMER INTERNSHIP WITH OUTREACH AND EDUCATION.
Working as an Intern for the Missouri Department
\r\n\\r\\nof Conservation over the summer as part
of the \r\n\\r\\nOutreach and Education department
is an \r\n\\r\\ninformative and enlightening
experience that, \r\n\\r\\ndespite the short
amount of time, was highly \r\n\\r\\neducational. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER
Mathern, Cassandra. APPLIED LEARNING INTERNSHIP AT THE DICKERSON PARK ZOO.
This paper outlines my internship experience and duties completed at the Dickerson Park Zoo as an animal care provider and how it will effect my future career. Faculty Sponsor: DR. M.S. MILLS
The Cape buffalo, (Syncerus caffer caffer), which
is also known as the southern savanna buffalo is
one of four subspecies of African buffalo which
include forest buffalo, S.c. nanus, the West
African savanna buffalo, S.c. brachyceros, and
the Central African savanna buffalo, S.c.
aequinoctialis. The Cape buffalo is the largest of
the African buffalo species and is the only member
of the Bovini to occur naturally in Africa. Cape
buffalo are known for the aggression and
territorial behavior. For this reason cape buffalo
remain the only member of the bovidae family to
remain undomesticated. There aggression has also
earned them the reputation of being the most
deadly member of Africa's “Big 5”.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. C.D. CHEVALIER
Rosinski, Bryan . ECOLOGY OF THE COMMON WARTHOG (PHACOCHOERUS AFRICANUS).
The Common Warthog or Phacochoerus africanus, is
\r\n\\r\\none of the most prominent of the wild
pig \r\nspecies \\r\\nof Africa. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY CHEVALIER
This poster is about honey badgers; where they live, what they
\r\neat, how they live, and how they behave. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER
Campbell, Kaitlyn and Hayward, Laney. NATURAL HISTORY & CONSERVATION OF THE GRANT'S GAZELLE.
This poster is describing the life about the
Grant's gazelle and the conservation methods on
preserving their habitat it Africa, as well as
gaining more studies as possible and learning
their movement methods in the wild. Faculty Sponsor: CARY D. CHEVALIER
Daldrup, Cassandra Gawley, Nick. NORTH AMERICAN PRONGHORN.
The North American pronghorn is a species native
to North America and the only species of its
family. This project regards information habitat
and ecology, conservation,biology, reproduction,
and relations to the antelope. This was a
requirement or the course Mammology and is one of
the final requirements for completing the course.
This poster presentation covers all that was
researched about his particular species. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER
DeShazo, Madison; Hayes, Olivia. NATURAL HISTORY OF THE NORTH AMERICAN OTTER.
This poster presents information on the otter. It
includes life history, ecology, trophic levels,
conservation issues, and habitat. Pictures and
references are also included. Faculty Sponsor: C. D. CHEVALIER
DeShazo, Madison. TRANSPIRATION IN GERANIUM LEAVES.
This poster presents my experiment for measuring
the rate of transpiration in geranium leaves.
There was a control, darkness, and the
environmental factor, light from a 100 watt lamp.
I used the LoggerPro software, and the Vernier Gas
Pressure Sensor. Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA
(Doering, Branden) (Kessler, Dakota). AMERICAN BLACK BEAR (URSUS AMERICANUS).
This research project was about the North American
Black Bear (Ursus americana). We researched its
history, lifestyle, and its role in conservation. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY CHEVALIER
The Thomson's Gazelle lives in the Serengeti
region of Kenya and Tanzania Africa. They can grow
to weigh between 26-187 lbs. There mating season
occurs during the rainy season mostly to benefit
the young. They are classified as a near
threatened species. the total population only has
about 550,000 left on the planet. Faculty Sponsor: C. D. CHEVALIER
Euler, Michael Hayden, Tasha. THE NORTH AMERICAN MOOSE.
This poster details, both in text and pictures, several facts of the Moose. History, habitat, and conservation are discussed. The Moose from the Biology Department is featured, so students and the public can view a Moose head at their leisure. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER
Filley, James, Whitman, Isaac. NATURAL HISTORY AND CONSERVATION OF WHITE-TAILED DEER.
This poster is a review of information about white-tailed deer. Specifically, examining the range, both historic and present, habitat, behavior, life cycle, and management of white-tailed deer. Additionally, we briefly examined Chronic Wasting Disease and how it impacts white-tailed deer. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY CHEVALIER
Glore, Caitlin; Marks, Mackenzie. MOUNTAIN LIONS: EVOLUTION OF A PHENOMENA.
The mountain lions are massive creatures that have
evolved and expanded their population over a many
years.The perception of this creature has went
from a ghost or phenomena to a creature of awe and
even concern today. The puma concolor, greatly
misunderstood. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARY CHEVALIER
Hoover, Cole; Darling, Nick. DESCRIPTION OF THE PLATYPUS.
In this poster we discuss various information
about the platypus. These include: description,
diet, behavior, habitat, and others. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER
Kessler, Dakota. THE EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT COLORS OF LIGHT ON PLANTS.
I tested the effect of green, blue, and white
light and the growth of pinto bean plants. The
experiment was performed over a three week period.
Green grew the best, blue was second, and white
was last. Faculty Sponsor: DR. BARTA
Lavelle, Katie, Miller, Samuel. DALL SHEEP LITERATURE REVIEW.
This literature review gives a detailed
description of the Dall Sheep through an
informational poster, which includes an overall
introduction of the Dall Sheep, its habitat, herd
structure, and its conservation status. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CHEVALIER
Mathern, Cassandra; Phelps, Jessica. NATURAL HISTRY & CONSERVATION OF CHEETAHS.
This poster has information related to the taxonomy, distribution, locomotion, conservation, and reproduction of the Cheetah. Faculty Sponsor: DR. C.D. CHEVALIER
Pauley, Brittney. THE EFFECTS OF SALT WATER ON PINTO BEANS (PHASEOLUS VULGARIS).
Pinto beans are a common bean plant that is produced primarily for human consumption. Agricultural plants are very important to our society and can be impacted by many abiotic factors such as drought, extreme temperatures, and salinity. In this experiment we used four different salt concentrations: 3%, 5%, 10%, 15% and a control to test the effects of the salt on the plants. We hypothesized that the lower salt concentrations would have a lesser effect on the plants, than the higher salt concentrations. Our hypothesis was supported. Higher salt concentrations had greater impacts on the plant. Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA
Teegarden, Dailee & Ziegler, Ann. FORAGING AND VIGILANCE BEHAVIOR IN IMPALAS .
Our literature review was focused upon the
niche in which the impala resides and the
influence of predators on behavior. Impalas are
naturally heard animals that reside in South
East Africa. However, Impalas share terrain
with large predators such as cheetahs, lions
and leopards. These predators have an impact
upon the vigilance and foraging behaviors in
impalas. Often times there is a trade off
between vigilance in foraging. On one hand
impalas may become more vigilant and decrease
foraging in the presence of a predator or when
in fear of danger. However, since impalas are
herd mammals they may not decrease vigilance in
the presence of danger as the herd itself
provides provides an increased chance in
survival. We reviewed literature to better
understand if the presence of predators
significantly impacted the vigilance and
foraging of impalas. After reviewing the
results of research and experiments done we
conclude that there is not in fact a
significant difference. Faculty Sponsor: DR. C. D. CHEVALIER
DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY
Empirical Projects
Wilson Riley, Luke Alex, Fergione Sarah . IDENTIFICATION OF ACTIVE SC35 PROTEIN BINDING SEQUENCES USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE.
The goal of this project was to apply already
established Neural Network prototype on different
biological setting and relate newly developed
artificial intelligence to the decision process
about predicted binding activities.
The original prototype was adjusted, trained and
validated with data set represented by SC35
selected binding sequences for the active output,
together with the set of complimentary sequences
used to simulate the inactive output.
As evidenced by the promising results found in
this preliminary research, the use of neural
networks has proven to be useful and efficient for
data mining and creating recognizable patterns to
solve current issues in medicine, social economy,
finances, and more.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. STAN SVOJANOVSKY
DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE MATH AND PHYSICS
Empirical Projects
Reznick, Nicholas. AN INTRODUCTION TO RAMSEY NUMBERS AND RAMSEY SATURATON.
Given graphs F & H, the Ramsey number is the minimum n
such that in any edge-coloring of Kn with colors red and blue,
you can find either a red F or a blue H in Kn. This is an
introduction to Ramsey numbers, coloring numbers, and
Ramsey saturation. This poster will also describe some
interesting results involving Ramsey numbers where F & H are
trees. Faculty Sponsor: MCCUNE, LORI
Literature Reviews
Estrada, Autumn; Kessler, Brooke. THE FIREFIGHTER PROBLEM.
Introduced in 1995 by Bert Hartell, The Firefighter Problem models the spread of a fire on a graph. On the graph G, a fire breaks out at a vertex of V at time 0. Next, a firefighter defends a vertex of G, then the fire spreads to all adjacent non-defended vertices. Once defended, a vertex can never be burned. The spreading of the fire continues in this same format and terminates when the fire can no longer spread. This is a review of “The Firefighter Problem: A survey of results, directions, and questions” by Stephen Finbow and Gary MacGillivray.
Faculty Sponsor: LORI MCCUNE
Slater Kaden, Nicholas Kempf. GRAPHS AS POLYHEDRA; POLYHEDRA AS GRAPHS.
We review a paper of Grünbaum which gives a general
definition for non-convex polyhedra using graph
theory. We present Steinitz’s theorem, which is
used to represent convex polyhedra in terms of
graphs, and graphs in terms of convex polyhedra.
Next, we present Grünbaum’s definition of polygons
and mention some of the consequences of defining
polygons in this way. The main goal is to give a
definition of polyhedra that considers polyhedra
from a more graph theoretic perspective. We present
the definition of polyhedra given by Grünbaum and
the consequences of, as well as a reason for such a
definition is discussed. Faculty Sponsor: DR. MCCUNE
Mattoon, Devin. PROABILITY OF SPANNING SUBTREES.
A subgraph, H, of a graph G, is a graph which contains only vertices and edges that exist in G. A subtree, T, is a subgraph of G that contains no cycles, and a spanning tree is a subtree that contains all the vertices from G. Given a randomly selected subtree of a complete graph, what is the probability that the subtree spans? This question and similar questions were asked in the mathematical paper Pick a Tree – Any Tree by Alex Chin, Gary Gordon, Kellie MacPhee, and Charles Vincent. This poster is a report on their odd but interesting findings. Faculty Sponsor: DR. LORI MCCUNE
Nute, Jeremee. COUNTING ON DETERMINANTS.
In Counting on Determinants, Benjamin and
Cameron look at two separate problems: four ants
and four different morsels of food and the
possible paths taken by the ants given limited
movements, and permutations with specified
descents. This poster reviews the methods used to
answer various questions related to these two
problems. The overarching theme that runs through
these two problems is trying to count the number
of different possibilities there are using Linear
Algebra, Combinatorics, and Graph Theory. Faculty Sponsor: DR. LORI MCCUNE
Rastorfer, Courtney. A GRAPH WITH FOUR INDEPENDENT CROSSINGS IS FIVE COLORABLE.
A coloring of a graph is a way of labeling the vertices with
\r\n\\r\\ncolors in such a way that no two adjacent vertices
share a \r\n\\r\\ncolor Albertson suggested that the
independent crossings \r\nin a \\r\\ngraph have an effect on the
coloring of the graph. This \r\nled to \\r\\nthe suggestion that a
graph with exactly four \r\nindependent \\r\\ncrossings is five
colorable. Using the Four \r\nColor Conjecture, \\r\\nand the
definition of planar, Harman \r\ndeveloped a proof to
\\r\\nsupport this theorem. This poster will \r\noutline the
conjecture \\r\\nand the data used to support it. Faculty Sponsor: DR. LORI MCCUNE
Rastorfer, Courtney. A GRAPH WITH FOUR INDEPENDENT CROSSINGS IS FIVE COLORABLE.
A coloring of a graph is a way of labeling the vertices with
\r\n\\r\\ncolors in such a way that no two adjacent vertices
share a \r\n\\r\\ncolor Albertson suggested that the
independent crossings \r\nin a \\r\\ngraph have an effect on the
coloring of the graph. This \r\nled to \\r\\nthe suggestion that a
graph with exactly four \r\nindependent \\r\\ncrossings is five
colorable. Using the Four \r\nColor Conjecture, \\r\\nand the
definition of planar, Harman \r\ndeveloped a proof to
\\r\\nsupport this theorem. This poster will \r\noutline the
conjecture \\r\\nand the data used to support it. Faculty Sponsor: DR. LORI MCCUNE
Urban, Dannie. THE BIRDS AND THE BEES: BOUNDING DEGREE SEQUENCES OF BIPARTITE GRAPHS.
Suppose a random set of women told the truth on how
many men they have been with. Would the
corresponding set of men’s fabled tales on how many
women they’ve been with, still hold true? Over this
presentation we’ll be using Sam Pine’s mathematics
journal "Bounds for elements of the degree sequence
of an unknown vertex set in a balanced bipartite
graph" to explore and review some High School Prom
Theorem like questions using the Gale-Ryser
Theorem, definition of a balanced bipartite graph,
ceilings, floors, and more in order to bound the
unknown. Faculty Sponsor: LORI MCCUNE
DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE/LEGAL STUDIES/SOCIAL WORK
Empirical Projects
Eggers, Sara and Jones, Seth. RACIAL DISCRIMINATION IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM.
American society is becoming more racially
divided. According to the perception of the
public, racial bias in the criminal justice system
is widespread. This is a result of celebrated
cases of police misconduct. In reality, racial
bias is not widespread in the criminal justice
system. But we do know it does exist in the two
most sensitive areas; the use of lethal force, and
capital punishment. By the age of ten, children
show a strong racial bias because it is developed
in early childhood. This is a result from how the
public perceives negative law enforcement
encounters. No matter what the research shows us,
public perception will always win. Faculty Sponsor: GODBOLDT
Hamm, Elisa and Sievers, Quinton. WHY CURRENT IMMIGRATION POLICIES ARE WORKING.
The current immigration policies that are in place
in the United States today are working, and those
laws should remain intact for the betterment of
the United States and also immigrants coming to
America. Right now, it is hard for many
immigrants, both legally and illegally, to come
into America and stay in America without getting
into some type of trouble. Immigrants face very
demanding requirements in order to obtain
citizenship in the United States. Immigrants
benefit the United States economically, but also
receive economic and social benefits from being a
part of the United States. Immigrants must face
many hardships when they come into the United
States legally or illegally on a daily basis.
There are also many misconceptions that people
have toward illegal/legal immigrants that can
create unwarranted stereotypes that can have a
negative impact on both immigrants and the
citizens of the country they are immigrating too. Faculty Sponsor: GODBOLDT
Haskell, Derek and Novinger, Jon. PRO-GUN CONCEALED CARRY ON COLLEGE CAMPUS.
Being able to carry a concealed firearm is a
highly debated topic amongst our society. After a
serious amount of research done, having people
with the correct amount of training with a gun is
a good thing. There are studies that show that
with the proper training and intense
qualifications conceal and carry is a preventative
measure for active shooters and mass shooting
situations. In places like a college campus,
certain individuals should be able to carry a
concealed firearm for protection. Both students
and faculty would be encouraged to get the
training and pass a qualification that would be
required to carry a concealed firearm in a school
or on a college campus. Faculty Sponsor: GODBOLDT
McBee, Mekelle and Wright, Rachel. COMMUNITY-BASED TREATMENT FOR MENTALLY ILL OFFENDERS.
Treatment for individuals with mental illness is a
controversial topic. Currently there are two types
of treatment facilities where individuals can go.
The two treatment types are community based
treatment and institutional based treatment. The
option that will best benefit the mentally ill
individual is community based treatment. Community
based treatment will provide the individual with
specialized treatment plans, and can lead to lower
recidivism rates. Community based will also help
the individuals learn basic life skills and be
able to focus more on treatment than safety, like
institutional based treatment. Our paper will
discuss the benefits of community based treatment,
and how it is the better choice for mentally ill
individuals. Faculty Sponsor: GODBOLDT
Peterson, Taylor and Simmons, Sarah. IMMIGRATION - CRIME AND POLICY.
The process to becoming a legal immigrant is a
very long and lengthy process. There are four main
types of visas that immigrants can apply for:
employment visa, family-based visa, humanitarian,
and a DV-1 visa. Based on social disorganization
theory it is thought that due to immigrants
settling in communities with high poverty and
population heterogeneity they will be inclined to
commit crime. Through our research we have found
this to be untrue. Multiple studies on immigration
populations have shown that immigration cause a
reduction in crime. Therefore, immigration might
reasonably be expected to be more disorganized, at
the same time, it produces less crime. Faculty Sponsor: GODBOLDT
Steiner, Kent and Wilkerson, Rylee. DE-MILITARIZATION OF POLICE.
Police militarization is a huge issue in the
Unites States. It is becoming harder and harder
for people to trust and relate to the police and
militarization is playing a huge factor in that.
There are issues that come from its origins in the
Vietnam war and the war on drugs. There are also
issues with the use of military tactics being
disproportionally used on certain ethnic classes
and the alienation that this bias causes. Programs
like the 1033 program make it much easier for
agencies to get these weapons but the lack of
democratic oversight on these acquisitions is too
low. However, all hope is not lost and we can
combat the militarization of the police by taking
certain precautions and following certain steps. Faculty Sponsor: GODBOLDT
Thomas, Dallas and Guerrero, Luis. PROFILING AND POLICING.
This paper is written to explain and highlight the
factors and statistical evidence that is used
every day in policing. Dallas and I have compiled
an array of scholarly sources that illustrate the
criminal justice system using similar policies and
procedures as universities, hospitals, and fortune
500 companies; either to target their audience for
their goods and services or in the case of
criminal justice's, to target who the 6% are that
are committing the crimes more constantly and
frequently. The reader must be open minded and be
objective while reading this paper, we are not
proponents of police brutality or un-just police
tactics. We are simply shedding light on a topic
that is being portrayed in a negative matter by
fake news and anti-police groups. Faculty Sponsor: GODBOLDT
DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY
Empirical Projects
Jacob Dovel, Sarah Johnson, and Ali Albensaad. DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF FREQUENCY MODULATION AND DEMODULATION.
Frequency modulation (FM) is widely used for radio transmissions for a wide variety of applications from broadcasting to general point to point communications. Understanding the theory of FM and observing the process of modulation and demodulation is very important in the study of communication systems course. This project constructs the circuits showing the frequency modulation process by using the IC XR-2206 and frequency demodulation process by using the IC LM565CN phase locked loop (PLL). An information signal of 200 Hz is provided through a function generator as the modulating signal. An FM signal is produced at the output of the modulator, which serves as the input of the demodulator. The frequency demodulator implemented by the LM565CN PLL recovers the original information signal at the output of PLL from the FM signal. Both frequency modulation and demodulation processes are examined by experiments and related signal waveforms are shown in oscilloscope. Faculty Sponsor: SHENSHENG TANG
Potter, Zachary Losack, Trent O’Rourke, John . IMPROVEMENT OF SWITCHES.
Using Transistors as switches, then improving the
switch to better show a circuit in cutoff or
saturation. Showing how transistors,
potentiometers, switches and, light emitting
diodes (LED) work together in a circuit board. Faculty Sponsor: JINWEN ZHU
Ray, Caleb Ray; Griffin, Darius . AM/FM RADIO ASSEMBLY.
Electronics assembly and circuit debugging are the required abilities for students in Electronics Engineering Technology (EET) major. In this course project, individual students are involved in the assembly of an AM/FM Radio, where they can get comprehensive hands-on experience through independently assembling and soldering electronic components onto the Printed circuit board (PCB) and performing circuit debugging. The AM/FM Radio is a “superheterodyne” receiver of the standard AM and FM broadcast frequencies. The actual assembly is broken down into nine separate sections, which allows the student to learn how each section works and contributes to the entire device. Each section involves independent tests and measurements to prove that it is functioning properly. A final alignment procedure is used to peak the performance of the radio receiver and maximize its reception capability. Faculty Sponsor: SHENSHENG TANG
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PE AND RECREATION
Empirical Projects
Ruff, Kayla and Saladino, Shyanne. EXAMINATION OF ATHLETIC BURNOUT BETWEEN COLLEGIATE TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL SPORT ATHLETES.
Athletic burnout is a multidimensional syndrome characterized by increased physical and mental exhaustion, reduced accomplishments, and sport devaluation. Burnout also plays a role in why collegiate athletes do not complete years of eligibility. It is important to study this topic so that coaches can recognize burnout symptoms in athletes and develop interventions. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in athlete burnout among collegiate athletes in team sports and individual sports. Study participants were team sport athletes at MWSU (n=20) and individual sport athletes (n=20). Participants who consented to participate completed The Athlete Burnout Questionnaire (ABQ) and a survey measuring self-motivation. Results from independent t-tests comparing team-sport and individual-sport athletes on reduced sense of accomplishment, emotional/physical exhaustion, and sport devaluation were not significant. Correlation results however, indicated a significant negative correlation (r=-.56, p <.01) between athletes’ global burnout scores (ABQ) and self-motivation. Faculty Sponsor: WILLIAM RUSSELL
DEPARTMENT OF HONORS
Literature Reviews
Pickering, Bayley, Patterson, Hunter, Winker, Liv. HUMAN SEX TRAFFICKING .
Human sex trafficking is a prevailing human rights issue, not just in
other countries, but also within the United States. The younger
generation needs to be educated on the topic and given resources
which they can use to help end the problem. There are easy ways to
get involved like service projects, petitions, knowing the laws, and
contacting local legislation. It is also necessary to provide resources
for victims like hotlines and contacts of professionals that can assist
them. Implementing laws and justice, aiding the victims, and
educating ourselves are all ways to help end human sex trafficking.
Faculty Sponsor: DAVID TUSHAUS
DEPARTMENT OF NURSING
Empirical Projects
Boles Shiloh, Leslie, Holly, Lewis, Lewis, Phipps, Paige, Pouliot, Ashley, Rose, Tabatha . DIABETIC ALERT DOGS: UNDERSTANDING THE EFFICACY OF ALTERNATIVE PREVENTION OF DIABETIC COMPLICATIONS.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) (2015), estimate that diabetes afflicts 30.3
million people in the United States (U.S.).
Diabetes is a very expensive chronic disease with
many severe complications. The purpose of this
project was to utilize the ACE Star Model to
systematically examine the literature surrounding
the use of Diabetes Assistance Dogs (DADs). DADs
can significantly improve functioning and
recognition of hypoglycemic episodes. Further
exploration and research surrounding the use of
DADs is needed in order to make this alternative
resource more accessible and affordable to
individuals of all ages with diabetes. Faculty Sponsor: JULIE BALDWIN
Davis, Avery Hess,Chelsea Atwell, Shelbie Clinton, Kaysie. EFFECTIVE INTERVENTIONS FOR NUTRITIONAL DEFICITS IN CANCER PATIENTS.
Malnutrition takes place in 40-80% of cancer
patients. Nutritional status affects the physical,
psychological, and overall well-being of a person.
By enforcing interventions such as healthy caloric
intake, medications to help decrease nausea and
stimulate appetite, and educating health care
workers and patients to increase health literacy
in patients regarding nutritional deficits related
to the diagnosis of cancer. The overall quality of
life can be improved in cancer patients by finding
effective ways to promote nutrition. Faculty Sponsor: CRISTI CAMPBELL
Gabauer, Jordan; Peterson, Chandler; Stevens, Breanna; Wright, Justin. AN EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE PROTOCOL: PREVENTING AND TREATING NURSE BURNOUT SYNDROME IN THE ICU .
The consequences of nurse burnout syndrome can be
detrimental to the nurse, hospital, and patients.
A protocol was created to prevent and treat nurse
burnout syndrome in the ICU. The literature
supports standardized assessment for nurse burnout
syndrome. Organizations are encouraged to provide
physiologically and psychologically safe working
environments by supporting lower patient ratios,
life-work balance, and teamwork. Nurses reported
less burnout when they felt supported, valued, and
recognized. Effective treatment for burnout
includes stress management workshops to improve
coping mechanisms. A protocol with these elements
may assist ICUs decrease nurse burnout syndrome
and improve nursing satisfaction and patient
outcomes. Faculty Sponsor: DR. MACHELLE SKINNER
Targeted temperature management (TTM) is a seldom used new treatment to prevent neurological damage during a cardiac arrest. The purpose of this project was to conduct a literature review with the goal of identifying an evidenced based practice (EPB) concerning TTM. The Ace Star Model was used to evaluate TTM as an effective EBP. Research showed that TTM is an effective but underutilized treatment for cardiac arrest to prevent neurological damage. However, hospitals need to be prepared to use this treatment. This includes have a policy, educating staff, and having cooling equipment available. Faculty Sponsor: KARMAN ROMERO
Becker, Cynthia; Mitchell, Raven; Orlando, Valerie. NURSES' RIGHTS AND THE EFFECT ON PATIENT CARE.
Current events inspired ideas and questions about the rights of nurses. The purpose of this project was to determine if a nurse’s knowledge of his/her rights impacts patient care. A literature review was conducted to see if nurses were aware of their rights and if this affected patient care. The Ace Start Model was used to see if findings from the literature review warranted a new evidence based practice. Research showed that nurses not being aware of their rights negatively impacted patient care. The conclusion was made that nurses should be educated on their rights. Faculty Sponsor: KARMAN ROMERO
Bowers, Jessica Glaubius, Carissa Gump, Jessica Wright, Brittany. HOW THE LACK OF SLEEP IN TEENS IMPACTS SUICIDAL TENDENCIES.
Sleep is a vital component to an adolescent as it affects the ability to think, behave, and feel. It is recommended that adolescents get an average of eight to ten hours of sleep per night. Evidence has shown that a lack of adequate sleep increases the risk of suicidal ideation in adolescents as well as suicide attempts leading to fatalities. Suicide is the second most common preventable cause of adolescent death in the world. The purpose of our research is to promote sleep hygiene in adolescents by making our audience aware of the adverse effects that can occur due to decreased sleep. Faculty Sponsor: BEKAH QUILLIN
Bradford, Ashley; Davis, Mandy; Johnson, Kortnie; McDonald, Laura. RISKS OF SPREADING MEASLES, MUMPS, AND RUBELLA.
The number of cases of diseases that were once thought to be eradicated in the United States have started to rise. A literature review was completed to evaluate whether the increase in cases of measles, mumps, and rubella is being caused by parents choosing to not vaccinate their children. The Empowerment Theory and the Health Belief Theory were used to conclude how an evidenced based practice can increase the number of parents who chose to vaccinate, which will lead to fewer cases of measles, mumps, and rubella. Faculty Sponsor: KARMAN ROMERO
Cofer, Taylor; Galing, Laura; McKiddy, Samantha; Tran, Van. HEALTH PROMOTION FOR ALZHEIMER'S AND RELATED DEMENTIAS.
In the United States, Alzheimer’s and related
dementias are increasing in incidence as the
population ages. To improve patients’ quality of
life, researchers have been studying
interventions and health promotion related to
this chronic problem. They are also looking at
how to manage this ineluctable issue effectively
and efficiently. Evidence suggests that early
diagnosis, nutritional status, good sleeping
habits, and activity have a significant impact on
the Alzheimer’s and related dementias population.
Research has demonstrated that a consumption of
sufficient nutrition decreases the incidence of
developing dementia and also improves the life of
people who are suffering from the disease. An
adequate amount of sleeping time has been found
to enhance a person’s memory. Early diagnosis
allows the patient and family time to plan the
care for when the dementia worsens, take care of
pressing needs, and possibly slow the progression
of the disease. Mental and physical activity
along with promoting independence for the
individual has seen to improve the quality of
daily living for the individual.
Faculty Sponsor: BEKAH QUILLIN
DeHaemers, Briana; Dover, Sherri; Marta, Paige; Sandusky, Dana. EFFECTS OF AROMATHERAPY ON ANXIETY.
Essential oils are currently popular for a variety of reasons. The purpose of this project was to evaluate aromatherapy as an effective treatment for anxiety of hospitalized patients. A literature review showed that essential oils have been used for centuries and are widely used in other countries. The Iowa Model of Evidence Based Practice was used for assessment and concluded that certain essential oils would be effective in reducing anxiety for patients that are hospitalized. Faculty Sponsor: KARMAN ROMERO
Evans, Skyler; Griffin, Blair; Guthrie, Marissa; King, Samantha; Leibrandt, Missy; Thomsen, Tasha. BENEFITS OF ORAL HEALTH IN OLDER ADULTS.
The number of adults 65 years and older are expected to total 98
million by 2060. Oral health is an important factor affecting the
overall health and quality of life in older adults. Poor oral health can
worsen current disease processes or initiate new health problems.
Because of the link between oral health and overall health and well-
being, oral care in the older adult population is an important public
health issue that needs to be addressed. This project describes a
protocol created for the primary health setting that will focus
attention on the oral health of older adults. Faculty Sponsor: MACHELLE SKINNER
Jordan Breckenridge, Monica Corso, Lexie Martin, Rachel Smith. HEALTH PROMOTION FOR PRENATAL EXPOSURE TO DRUGS.
For this paper, we researched the effects maternal substance abuse has on a baby during pregnancy. This paper concentrates on studies that talked about the specific effects substance abuse had on the baby, different ways to test for substance abuse, the stigma that is placed on mothers who abuse drugs or alcohol while pregnant and how it can affect both the mom and baby, a study that discusses different treatment options for mothers who are having problems with substance abuse, as well as other topics. With the information gathered from other research teams, we were able to see that there is an overall negative correlation to the baby’s health if the mother had some kind of substance abuse problem while pregnant. Throughout this paper, different research is discussed and presented to help support the negative effects of substance abuse while pregnant.
Faculty Sponsor: BEKAH QUILLIN
Controversies and misconceptions of immunizations have
elicited concerns among parents regarding why they should
allow their child to be exposed to unnecessary dangers.
“When presenting this vaccination to parents, physicians
should focus on the universal aspect of the recommendation,
the efficacy and safety of the vaccine.” (Oschner, 2008). As a
nurse, it is our duty to educate families regarding common
misconceptions as well as the benefits associated with the
process of immunizing their children. The Registered Nurse
must serve as an advocate for timely administration, ensuring
protection for the child being immunized as well as those that
they come in contact with. Faculty Sponsor: JILL MORSBACH
Leners, Yvonne; Sells, Paula; Sousa, Glenda; Stanley, Vera. VIOLENCE TOWARD HEALTH CARE WORKERS.
Workplace violence is a critical issue with severe consequences. The purpose of this project was to evaluate strategies to lessen the risk of violence toward health care workers. A literature review was conducted and showed that there were several factors that led to workplace violence. The Iowa Model of Evidenced Based Practice was used to evaluate data on this topic. It was concluded that having interventions in place such as the Behavioral Emergency Response Team could reduce the incidence of violence towards healthcare workers. Faculty Sponsor: KARMAN ROMERO
DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY
Empirical Projects
Dwyer, Emma; Enciso, Crystal; Johnson, Brooke; Johnson, Dasia; Leggett, McCown; Skinner, Dedrick; Mandracchia, Jon. SUICIDALITY AND SOCIAL CONNECTEDNESS: COMPARING COLLEGE STUDENTS TO THEIR NON-COLLEGE PEERS.
Social connectedness has been shown to be an
important factor related to suicide. Therefore, we
examined relationships and suicidal ideation among
college students and their non-college peers.
Participants were ages 18-25 years old and were
recruited to complete the survey online through
social media and in person via paper-and-pencil
surveys. They completed questionnaires asking
about their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and
relationships to determine what factors may
contribute to suicidal ideation. In conclusion, we
found that college students and their non-college
peers did not differ in suicidality and identified
some specific relationships that were related to
suicidality. Faculty Sponsor: DR. JON MANDRACCHIA
Gunasekera, Sanjay, Lewis, Kitty, Lund, Tessa, Souther, Jordan, Watkins, Donte, Wood, Miriah. PREDICTING CHANGE IN COLLEGE AND THE END OF HISTORY ILLUSION.
Everyone develops and changes with age. Many
people do not believe they will change as much as
they might actually change. This is known as the
“End of History Illusion” (Quoidbach, Gilbert, &
Wilson, 2013). We attempted to replicate the
Quidbach et al study using 69 freshman and senior
college students, adding variables that are known
to significantly change from freshman to senior
years. For personality, self-esteem, and
fitness/weight, seniors reported significantly
more change when they reflected back to their
freshman year than did freshmen anticipating how
they would be as seniors, confirming the "end of
history illusion." Faculty Sponsor: DR. TEDDI DEKA