DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY

Empirical Projects

(Anderson, Zachary) (Karns, Daniel) (Mull, Trevor). THE EFFECT OF CAFFEINE ON THE INDUCTION OF APOPTOSIS.

Caffeine also has properties that prevent cancer development in several types of cells. Previous research has demonstrated that caffeine has several anti-cancer effects, including the induction of apoptosis. With its increasing popularity, higher dosage of concentrations found in substances, and known characteristics of preventing cancer, undergraduate research sought to determine whether caffeine had quantitative and qualitative evidence proving it had significant data causing apoptosis. Proving caffeine has a positive effect on preventing proliferative cancerous cells from forming in the body. Phospho- p53 ELISA (P-p53) and DAPI immunohistochemistry assays were performed to obtain quantitative and qualitative data to support the hypothesis that caffeine triggers apoptosis.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. WALTON
zanderson3@missouriwestern.edu

Buehre, Shannon, Lytton, Madyson, Wilcoxson, Hallie. THE EFFECTS OF HYDROGEN PEROXIDE ON THE APOPTIC ACTIVITY OF HELA CELLS.

The ability of hydrogen peroxide to induce apoptosis in HeLa cells was tested using different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide on cultured cells. The amount of phosphorylated p53, a marker of apoptosis, was measured using a p53 cell based ELISA. Cells were also stained with DAPI to observe apoptotic effects. It was predicted that with increasing concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, there would be increasing markers of apoptosis in the cells. Our ELISA data suggested that there was some phosphorylation of p53, indicating apoptosis occurred, but no obvious trend. However, our DAPI stain does not show clear evidence of apoptotic features.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. KRISTEN WALTON
mlytton@missouriwestern.edu

Erganian, Chase; Hunt, Marissa; Garcia, Joseph. EFFECTS OF INCREASING GLUCOSE CONCENTRATIONS ON MICE INTESTINAL CELLS.

Hyperglycemia is a condition where there are excessive amounts of sugar in the blood. Some risk factors include but are not limited to a high BMI, family history of type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes, sedentary lifestyle and high LDL cholesterol. Hyperglycemia can lead to disease of the pancreas and endocrine disorders. In this experiment mouse colon epithelial cells were incubated in increasing glucose concentrations to test for apoptosis. Levels of P-p53, a tumor suppressor gene, and DAPI as well as brightfield images were used to assess the effects of the increasing sugar levels.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. WALTON
mhunt12@missouriwestern.edu

(Grantham, Mackenzie), (Hovey, Logan), (Par, Esther). HELA CELLS TREATED WITH PF-04691502 UNDERGO APOPTOSIS IN A DOSE-DEPENDENT MANNER.

Apoptosis is a highly regulated cellular process that induces organized cell death. In this experiment we sought to identify whether the known PI3K-mTOR dual inhibiting drug PF-04691502 would induce apoptosis. We used a cell mediated ELISA assay to identify phosphorylated p-53 (a tumor suppressor gene involved in apoptosis) and DAPI nuclear staining under fluorescent microscopy to observe chromatin fragmentation and condensation. We found that PF-04691502 induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner and at high concentrations showed high levels of phosphorylated p-53, as well as morphological changes indicative of apoptosis including plasma membrane blebbing, rounding, and phase bright cells.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. WALTON
mgrantham1@missouriwestern.edu

Konner Larkin and Dawn M. Drake. Land Use and Land Cover for Campus Ponds.

Faculty Sponsor: DR. DAWN DRAKE
klarkin@missouriwestern.edu

Prothero, Graycen- Root, Connor- Cobb, Kadyn. MIMICRY ACROSS DIFFERENT TERRAINS.

Mimicry is demonstrated when organisms mimic other species or objects in order to survive. There are two types of mimicry, Batesian and Mullerian. Batesian is described when a harmless organism mimics a dangerous organism in order to confuse predators into avoiding them. Mullerian Mimicry is demonstrated when a toxic organism mimics another toxic organism to avoid learning behaviors. Mimicry can be found in many different Biomes all across the world. In this presentation we will proved examples from areas that are hot and humid, cold and dry, and aquatic.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. CSENGELE BARTA
gprothero1@missouriwestern.edu

Root, Connor. A CLOSER LOOK AT THE DIVERSIFICATION AND EVOLUTION OF THE SILPHIUM GENUS.

The Asteraceae family is a widespread flowering plant family that is spread throughout the world. The genus Silphium is native to the United States and parts of Canada. There are four species native to Missouri – S. integrifolium, S. perfoliatum, S. terebinthinaceum, and S. laciniatum. The species Silphium perfoliatum has properties that make it an eligible source for future biofuels, spurring our phylogenetic research. Moreover, local Silphium is important for maintaining the delicate nature of surrounding ecosystems. The goal of our study was to understand the diversification timings of different Silphium species to provide a more complete evolutionary history.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. ROY
croot4@missouriwestern.edu

(Schmutzler, Dawson) (Castanedo, Baileigh) (Miller, Gabi). THE ABILITY OF VITAMIN C TO INDUCE APOPTOSIS IN THE HELA CELL LINE.

Vitamin C has become of increasing interest as it is known to be an essential micronutrient for humans. However, recent studies have shown that when cells are introduced directly with Vitamin C, apoptosis is induced. This has been observed in human breast and colon cancer cell lines, but the exact mechanism is still unknown. In this study the ability of Vitamin C to induce apoptosis in the HeLa cell line was investigated. With DAPI staining and p53 ELISA it was determined that HeLa cells are apoptotic in response to Vitamin C and that phosphorylated p53 is involved in this mechanism.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. WALTON
dschmutzler@missouriwestern.edu

Internship/Practicum Experience

Konner Larkin. Francis Marion and Sumter National Forest: Fuels Monitoring with Terrestrial LiDAR.

Faculty Sponsor: DR. DAWN DRAKE
klarkin@missouriwestern.edu

Literature Reviews

Mitchell Burns and Noah Gibler. Habitat Selection of Herps in a Lowland Rainforest.

Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARISSA GANONG
cganong@missouriwestern.edu

Destiny Christopher and Rachel Mott. Diurnal vs. Nocturnal Behaviors of Herps at La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica.

Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARISSA GANONG
cganong@missouriwestern.edu

Firsching, Macioespirito. MARIANA SNAILFISH: THE DEEPEST FISH DISCOVERED.

The Mariana Snailfish are the deepest fish discovered. Their scientific name is Pseudoliparis swirei, and they look like pale tadpoles. They live a depth range of 20,335–26,496 ft of the Mariana Trench. The Mariana Snailfish have many unique adaptations in their body structure and biochemistry that allow them to survive in such depths. This poster will be presenting this unique fish species and their various adaptations.
Faculty Sponsor: CSENGELE BARTA
mfirsching@missouriwestern.edu

Marissa Gruetze and Kelsi Schaberg. Bird Diversity in Disturbed vs. Undisturbed Areas of La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica.

Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARISSA GANONG
cganong@missouriwestern.edu

Emily Gunn and Becks Henderson. A Comparison of Wildlife Diversity Crossing the Stone Bridge at La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica, at Various Times of Day.

Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARISSA GANONG
cganong@missouriwestern.edu

Aubree Haddock, Shannon Buehre, Teresa Gilpin, and Carlie Burandt. Relationships Between Caterpillars and Their Predators in Disturbed vs. Undisturbed Neotropical Forests.

Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARISSA GANONG
cganong@missouriwestern.edu

Kusilek, Jason. AFFECTS OF NOTHERN SNAKEHEAD INVASION IN U.S.A.

The Northern Snakehead is an invasive species that first became a problem in the United States in 2002 when it was found in a pond in Maryland. Since then it has established populations throughout much of the east coast, with areas such as Potomac River and Chesapeake watershed being heavily impacted. Breeding populations were discovered in Arkansas in the summer of 2008, and the species has been slowly spreading through the region. In the summer of 2019, a specimen was found in the St. Francis River in southeatern Missouri, the first ever recorded. In my poster I will attempt to analyze the potential environmental impacts the species has had and the potential range it might spread to in the future.
Faculty Sponsor: CSENGELE BARTA
jkusilek1@missouriwestern.edu

Kylee Nissen and Alyka Zahnd. Comparative Analysis of Insect Biodiversity on Plant Species in Different Tropical Habitats at La Selva Biological Station.

Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARISSA GANONG
cganong@missouriwestern.edu

Sam Vogt and Shelby Smith. Attraction of Macrobrachium olfersii (Bristled River Shrimp) and Macrobrachium carcinus (Big Claw River Shrimp) to Light vs. Food.

Faculty Sponsor: DR. CARISSA GANONG
cganong@missouriwestern.edu

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS

Analytical Papers and Analyses

Henderson, Hayley. CLOTHING DELIVERY TO RETAIL LOCATIONS.

We investigated the supply chain design of a prospective apparel warehouse that serves nearly thirty retail locations in the St. Joseph area. To increase cost savings, we analyzed the Facility Location Problem considering three alternative locations, and Vehicle Routing Problem for route design. Additionally, the three possible order sizes are handled using the Container Loading problem.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. AMIT VERMA
hhenderson2@missouriwestern.edu

Empirical Projects

Brown, Gabriel. ROUTING OF POOL MAINTENANCE VEHICLES.

A proper supply chain design can lead to significant cost savings by enhancing business performance. For instance, a one-mile difference in travel distance can lead to considerable savings in fuel costs over the long term. I modeled a Pool and Spa business that delivers supplies and maintenance to its customers on a weekly basis. I used data analytics to design the most efficient route for one truck to reach all its customers in the St. Joseph area and an ideal warehouse location.
Faculty Sponsor: AMIT VERMA
gbrown14@missouriwestern.edu

Sterns, Cassandra. PRODUCE DELIVERIES TO RESTAURANTS.

The produce supply chain involves delivering produce from a local farmer to a produce wholesaler. Thereafter the wholesaler fulfills the demands of respective restaurants. We studied location planning for warehouses, vehicle routing to restaurants and container loading problems to help lower costs. The study focuses on three different prospective facilities, twenty restaurants and three different loading sizes.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. AMIT VERMA
csterns@missouriwestern.edu

Throckmorton, Courtney. STRATEGIC PAPER DISTRIBUTION.

U.S. schools use about 32 billion sheets of paper per year, amounting to $1 billion annually. This study focuses on the creation of a local paper distribution company that services surrounding schools. Efficient supply chain strategies are analyzed when determining facility location, distribution routing plans, and effective container loading.
Faculty Sponsor: AMIT VERMA
cthrockmorton1@missouriwestern.edu

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

Empirical Projects

Carter, David. DETERMINATION OF CALCIUM IN WATER SUPPLY FROM DIFFERENT SITES IN SAINT JOSEPH, MISSOURI.

The calcium content in tap water from different sites in Saint Joseph, Missouri were tested using flame atomic absorption (AA) and EDTA titration. The sites were initially chosen to sample the water supply available from older infrastructure as represented in older homes found in the south and west sides of the city. In addition, sources of water from newer infrastructure located on the Missouri Western State University campus were also compared. Calcium was chosen as an analyte due to the predominance of hard water in the region. Results of the analyses including statistical assessment will be presented, including a comparison with water quality reports from Missouri American Water from 2021.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. SHAUNA HILEY
dcarter11@missouriwestern.edu, hiley@missouriwestern.edu

Firsching, Macioe and Ducey, Adam. ANALYTICAL METHOD FOR THE IDENTIFICATION AND QUANTITATION OF TERPENOIDS IN SALVIA ROSMARINUS.

An analytical method is described for the identification and quantitation of a panel of terpenoids extracted from rosemary, Salvia rosmarinus. Terpenoids were analyzed from fresh, dry, and oil extract samples. Terpenoid panels were extracted through sonication in isooctane spiked with carvone (used as an internal standard). Following removal of residual water, the extract was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and quantified using the internal standard method. This presentation will feature the experimental design, separation conditions, and comparison of terpenoid panels from each matrix.
Faculty Sponsor: MICHAEL DUCEY
mfirsching@missouriwestern.edu

Firsching, Macioespirito. PROPERTIES AND APPLICATIONS OF PRASEODYMIUM.

Praseodymium is a rare-earth element with an atomic number of 59. Its green color that forms from oxidation with air is very characteristic of it. Due to its bright color, Praseodymium is used to give glasses and ceramics yellow-green colors. Alloys containing Praseodymium can be used in making a variety of things including aircraft engines and strong magnets. Some can be used in producing very low temperatures reaching 0 Kelvin. This poster will be presenting these unique properties and applications that make Praseodymium an important and worth-studying element.
Faculty Sponsor: JEFF WOODFORD
mfirsching@missouriwestern.edu

Hinson, Seth. HISTORY & USES OF EUROPIUM.

Europium, discovered in 1901 by French Chemist Eugine Anatole Demarcay, is one of the rarest of the lanthanides. Contrary to the name, Europium is not found in any meaningful quantities in Europe. Historically, Europium has widely varying uses, such as in optical displays, medical equipment, chemical analysis, and nuclear reactors. This project will discuss the discovery, extraction, and uses of Europium since its discovery, along with potential uses in the future.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. WOODFORD
Shinson1@missouriwestern.edu

Maxey, Nelson. AN EXPLORATION OF NEODYMIUM AND ITS USES.

The rare-earth elements, known as lanthanides, are seventeen similar looking heavy metals, among the most common of which is neodymium. While all the lanthanides look alike, their qualities vary wildly. Neodymium is utilizable in a vast amount of uses including incredibly strong magnets, IR lasers, and tinted glass used in manufacturing. This presentation goes into depth about the characteristics and many uses of neodymium.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. WOODFORD
nmaxey@missouriwestern.edu

Maxey, Nelson; Randleman, Josiah; Law, Tyler. PYFGH: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FOURIER GRID HAMILTONIAN METHOD IN PYTHON.

The Fourier Grid Hamiltonian (FGH) method enables the solution of the Schrodinger Equation on an equally spaced set of grid points. This poster describes the implementation of the FGH method in Python for solving the Vibrational Schrodinger Equation (VSE). The FGH method for solving the VSE for nonlinear triatomic molecules is implemented. Construction of the Hamiltonian matrix may be performed on a single core, or in parallel in a multicore environment. Functionality is also enabled for computation on a remote server. The results of test cases are presented
Faculty Sponsor: DR. WOODFORD
nmaxey@missouriwestern.edu

Owen, Chad. GREENER CHEMILUMINESCENCE EXPERIMENT FOR THE ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LABORATORY.

For more than 50 years, chemiluminescence reactions are part of the organic chemistry laboratory experience. Prepared diphenyl oxalates and fluorescers, such as 9-(2-phenylethenyl)anthracene, react with hydrogen peroxide to produce light. Bis(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)oxalate (TCPO) is commonly prepared in teaching laboratories from oxalyl chloride and 2,4,6-trichlorophenol, an acutely toxic and likely carcinogenic material. Over the past two decades, several green alternative oxalates have been published, but their synthesis procedures have been used for large-scale chemical demonstrations and are not reliable for use in teaching laboratories. This poster will describe the progress made toward preparing a dependable, greener chemiluminescence experiment for organic chemistry laboratories.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. STEVEN LORIMOR
cowen1@missouriwestern.edu

Roller, Kyle. YTTERBIUM IN HISTORY AND INDUSTRY.

Ytterbium inherited its name from the Swedish town of Ytterby where it was discovered after a long series of separations from other rare earth oxides also found in the mineral gadolinite. The process of separating these elements, as well as naming them, was responsible for the discovery of a handful of the rare earth metals we know today. Ytterbium is a soft malleable silvery metal that readily reacts with oxygen to form a protective oxide layer, which is responsible for its visual glossiness. Industrially, ytterbium is used as a doping agent to amplify the effectiveness of semiconductors and fiber optic cables. ytterbium's isotopes are used in imaging technology as well as nuclear development.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. WOODFORD
kroller2@missouriwestern.edu

Stapf, Jude. TRANSITION METAL REMEDIATION FROM ACIDIC WASTE STREAMS USING COFFEE GROUNDS.

This presentation will describe the use of coffee grounds in a flow through solid phase extraction tube to remove divalent transition metal ions (iron, lead, zinc, and copper) from acidic waste streams. This extension of prior work examines the application of this method to highly acidic, pH 0.5, samples and also examines the capacity of coffee grounds for remediation. Finally, the comparison of the flow through method to a batch sample approach is presented.
Faculty Sponsor: MICHAEL DUCEY
jstapf@missouriwestern.edu

Literature Reviews

Carter, David. HOLMIUM'S DISCOVERY, HISTORY, AND USES IN TODAY'S SOCIETY.

The discovery, history, and uses within today's society of Lanthanides are numerous. Holmium is a rare earth element that was discovered in 1878 with the atomic number 67. Holmium is a silvery-white earth element that is stable at room temperature but too reactive to find in native habitats. This element has many uses today and has impacted the lives of many without people even realizing it. Holmium is used in several fields such as nuclear chemistry, medical treatments, and more.
Faculty Sponsor: JEFFREY WOODFORD
dcarter11@missouriwestern.edu

Owen, Chad. TERBIUM, THE 65TH ELEMENT.

Terbium is a silvery white rare earth metal that was discovered in 1843 by Carl Gustaf Mosander and named after Ytterby, Sweden. It is never found in nature as a free element; it is only found contained in minerals. Due to its unique physical properties, terbium fills some niche roles in a variety of electronic devices. This poster will go into more details concerning the history of terbium, its current processing methods, and its uses.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. JEFF WOODFORD
cowen1@missouriwestern.edu

Stapf, Jude. THE LANTHANIDE THULIUM.

The lanthanide series of elements are some of the least noted elements on the periodic table. This poster specifically will talk about the lanthanide thulium. Thulium on its own does not get, much attention outside of chemistry research because of how rare it is. However, that does not mean it is useless. Thulium has been used in the creation of some lasers as well as being a radiation source for portable X-ray machines. Thulium is a far more useful element then it is given credit for and has several applications waiting to be discovered.
Faculty Sponsor: JEFF WOODFORD
jstapf@missouriwestern.edu

Ziebarth, Bowyn. THE DISCOVERY AND APPLICATIONS OF CERIUM AND CERIUM COMPOUNDS.

The lanthanide metals are often called rare-earth elements. Of the rare-earth elements, cerium is the most common, roughly as common as copper in the Earth’s crust. This presentation explores the discovery of cerium, as well as several notable uses in the world today. Cerium has found use in catalytic converters, the OCM reaction, and medical practices, with continued research still being undertaken.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. WOODFORD
bziebarth@missouriwestern.edu

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS POLITITICAL SCIENCE AND SOCIOLOGY

Analytical Papers and Analyses

Berry, Hannah. STUDY OF THE ECONOMIC BENEFITS DRAWN FROM HIGHER EDUCATION COMPLETION BY GENDER (MALE AND FEMALE).

One commonly cited economic observation is the positive relationship between degree completion and earnings. Income inequality is present within the relationship between education and earnings when considering sex (male and female). Historically men have earned more higher education degrees than women, however women are closing this gap year over year through pursuing degree completion. Not every college degree holds the same economic value. This project examines men’s and women’s respective increased earnings as a result of higher education degree completion.
Faculty Sponsor: SAITHIAVANEE VEERAMOOTHOO
hberry1@missouriwestern.edu

DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

Graduate Student Research

Tan, Brian. BENEFITS OF 3D PRINTING.

In this project, I am proposing the use of FlashForge 3D printers and an autodesk program such as Inventor, in order to come up with a product, design the product, discuss the purpose of the product, and manufacture the product using 3D printing. Manufacturing engineering focuses on the design and the development of products that are safe and easy to use for consumers. Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a manufacturing process that takes designs from computer-aided design (CAD) programs into full three-dimensional prototypes or products.
Faculty Sponsor: ZHU, JINWEN
btan@missouriwestern.edu

Internship/Practicum Experience

Dishman,Jonathan. INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE AT DISHMAN FERTILIZER INC..

I have been working for Dishman Fertilizer Incorporated which is a local agricultural custom application company out of Helena Missouri. At DFI they specialize in the application of herbicides, fungicides and other additives to the soil to improve the quality of a farmers yield. While working there I have taken on several roles within the company which are that of a Driver to deliver to CAVs in the field, an Operator of equipment that mix and prepare fertilizers and chemicals for application, and a Mechanic to repair machines that are constantly breaking due to the harsh nature of the materials used around the plant.
Faculty Sponsor: ZHU JINWEN
jdishman1@missouriwestern.edu

Hines, Rodney. MODOT INTERNSHIP.

During my internship with MoDot, I learned about the inner workings of what goes on in the day to day of being an inspector. Learning and understanding the software and programs that they used such as ASHTOWare, E-Projects and Microsoft Office and Teams. In the time frame that I was there, I helped complete the 29 Highways asphalt pouring job working along side Herzog, as well as completing a bridge re-decking and a box culvert cleanout and repair along 169 highway.
Faculty Sponsor: JINWEN ZHU
rhines2@missouriwestern.edu

Holmes, Devon. HERZOG INTERNSHIP.

The reason I chose to have my internship at Herzog Contracting Corp. In life; technology is always taking over people’s jobs and the way some people live. Construction is one thing where technology will not take a job, instead make people’s job easier. At Herzog, we focus on having a safe environment for our workers. We are constantly producing new and efficient ways to get the job done quicker and smoother. Being a Herzogian you learn just how much this job means to the people around you. It makes it feel like one big family. That Is why I chose Construction Engineering and that is why I chose Herzog Contracting Corp.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. JINWEN ZHU
dholmes12@missouriwestern.edu

Jackson, Garrett. MIDLAND STEEL INTERNSHIP .

Fabricated steel products affect people's lives everywhere. From dog-food plants to stadium jumbo trons, the proper engineering and technique of fabricating steel structures ensures people can have comfortable and safe lives. Midland Steel Company is a steel fabrication company that fabricates steel products and buildings that are critical for the construction process. I have had the opportunity to be a quality control intern at MSC and learn more about the structural steel process, the connections that hold the structure together, and the work that goes into fabricating them.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. JINWEN ZHU
gjackson7@missouriwestern.edu

Wilson, Benjamin. INTERNSHIP AT CREAL CLARK AND SEIFERT ARCHITECTS/ENGINEERS.INC.

Creal, Clark, and Seifert Architects/Engineers.inc is a multi-service architectural and engineering firm that has more than thirty years of experience in a wide variety of building projects. From home additions, to hospitals, engineering advisement, to interior design it is this team’s mission to provide its clients high quality, accurate, timely, and cost effective designs. The firm is located in St Joseph, MO and has over 16 employees. Over this semester I was given the opportunity to intern part-time as a CAD technician at this firm. My duties are to complete assigned drawing tasks, such as creating floor plans in CAD based on hand drawings from an architect or adding construction notes for structural drawings from an engineer.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. ZHU
bwilson29@missouriwestern.edu

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PE AND RECREATION

Literature Reviews

Trimmer, Eli . COST EFFECTIVENESS OF OPIOID TREATMENT & PREVENTION .

The opioid epidemic is a public health concern that spans all 50 states. Sustainable evidence-based intervention strategies require funding and positive return on investment. Business cases to support mitigation efforts can positively impact patients, organizations, and communities who are negatively affected by opioids. Syringe service programs, Naloxone distribution programs, and fentanyl test strip programs are all evidence-based practices tied to lower-cost opioid treatment in the United States (Owusu-Edusei, & Dietz, P. M. 2019,, Brown University.). The purpose of this project is to explore regional cost-benefits with enhanced prevention strategies. Community stakeholders can apply the findings to identify the value of treatment.
Faculty Sponsor: FIONA SANSONE
etrimmer@missouriwestern.edu

DEPARTMENT OF NURSING

Empirical Projects

Binder, Rylie. Blessing, Abby. Corkins, Hope. Duke, Olivia. Harris, Bailey. Jorgensen, Delaney. Kibby, Allison. Krull, Addie. Liu, Rain. . THE USE OF LIGHT/MODERATE EXERCISE IN REDUCING THE RISK OF UNPLANNED C-SECTIONS.

Unplanned C-sections are becoming more common, so we studied what healthcare professionals can do to prevent unplanned c-sections. Our research question was: For pregnant women, does the use of light to moderate exercise compared to a sedentary lifestyle reduce the risk of unplanned c-sections. A literature review found that exercise is beneficial to the mother and decreases the prevalence of unplanned c- sections. Based on the findings, a prenatal exercise program will be developed with the goal of decreasing unplanned cesarean section rates. Nursing staff will educate prenatal women on the usefulness of light to moderate exercise.
Faculty Sponsor: MACKENZIE EVANS
hcorkins@missouriwestern.edu

(Burkey, Kelsey), (Brush, Jessica), (Alyssa Erwin), (Allison Lorton), (Kirsten Huss), (Bethanie Standiford), (Geri Vermillion). THE EFFECT OF PRENATAL EDUCATION ON THE RATE OF CESAREAN SECTION.

The number of women having cesarean sections is increasing exponentially worldwide and is one of the most common operations performed. A review of literature was performed to see the connection between prenatal education workshops having a positive effect on reducing the rate of cesarean sections and any complications that occur with the procedure. The literature review found that the use of prenatal education classes can decrease unplanned cesarean sections. A prenatal education workshop will be developed at a Midwest hospital with the goal of reducing unplanned cesarean section rates.
Faculty Sponsor: MACKENZIE EVANS
kburkey@missouriwestern.edu

Literature Reviews

(Bauer, Katherine),(Everly, Elizabeth),(Irwin, Ashley),(Le, Hai),(Miller, Lauren),(Sanders, John),(Spiller, Chey)(Velasquez, Jennifer). CONTROVERSY WITH COVID-19 VACCINATIONS IN PREGNANT WOMEN.

The Covid-19 epidemic created new challenges regarding safety, particularly involving the safety and effectiveness of the vaccination in pregnant women. Fear of harm towards the fetus is a consistent factor that prevents pregnant women from going to get the vaccination. A review of literature found that pregnant women were more willing to receive the vaccine if it had been proven safe and effective, was provider or trusted community stakeholder recommended, and safety information was clear and concise. An education program was created that used community resources to achieve the goal of reducing Covid-19 vaccine hesitancy and improving adoption rates.
Faculty Sponsor: MACKENZIE EVANS
kbauer3@missouriwestern.edu

Bolles, Sydney, Hendren, Libbie, Romo, Nayeli, Rowland, Madison, Swearingen, Myranda, Twombly, Ellie, Ward, Kassi. THE EFFECTS OF EDUCATION ON POSTOPERATIVE ACUTE PAIN.

Abstract This project’s goal was to discover if there were any interventions utilized by nurses to reduce postoperative pain. We discovered through a literature review that thorough and individualized education for each patient led to statistically significant levels of reduced pain and anxiety. We developed a pre-operative education program for patients with the goal of reducing postoperative pain levels. Identifying patients who are at an increased risk of pain before surgery will give us more time to create individualized education plans. This will ideally aid patients in recovering more quickly and reducing their time spent in the hospital.
Faculty Sponsor: MACKENZIE EVANS
etwombly1@missouriwestern.edu

(Buford, Megan), (Durkin, Destiny), (McGowan, Miesha). THE AFFECT OF COVID-19 ON HIM CODING.

While researching the effect that COVID-19 had on medical coding, we found statistically significant information. Throughout our search, we found it difficult to locate before and after data due to many coders already working from home and away from the office�. Our literature review gives you a look into productivity along with how working remotely affects stress levels and work engagement. We dive into the research of how we compared productivity by going from only three record types meeting the required expectations and productivity when all required coders passed the required expectations.
Faculty Sponsor: MECHEL MCKINNEY
ddarrah@missouriwestern.edu

Harris, Chloe, Hovey, Alexandria, Johnson, Malia, Kipp, Cydnee, Lewey, Cassy, Nelson, Seth, Purtle, Shannon, Schneider, Sophia. THE EFFECTS OF EARLY AMBULATION ON URINARY RETENTION.

Numerous patients have unwillingly been the victim of postoperative complications, such as urinary retention. This review investigated the effects of different interventions, such as early mobilization, on reducing occurrences of post operative urinary retention(POUR) when compared to urinary catheterization. A literature review explored interventions and complications related to POUR in different in-patient settings. If patients ambulate at least three times within 24 hours postoperatively, then they will void at least 30 mL per hour, eliminating complications resulting from urinary retention. This study was conducted because urinary retention can cause many health issues, alter a patient’s quality of life, and negatively impact their hospital experience. An education program will be established and hospital caregivers will be educated on proper utilization of the established program. The task list program will be developed in order to motivate nurses and patient care associates to ambulate patients postoperatively while also obtaining urine output. With this program in place, postoperative urinary retention will be decreased.
Faculty Sponsor: MACKENZIE EVANS
mjohnson76@missouriwestern.edu

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY

Analytical Papers and Analyses

Anderson, Simone. FAMIGLIA: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC EXPLORATION OF ITALIAN CULTURE.

I used qualitative ethnography and immersed myself in Italian culture while applying developmental, behavioral, and gender-based psychology concepts to understand Italian culture better. In analyzing the Italian culture, I discovered they are very individualistic and private people. As such, diverse social relationships can be challenging. There are also expectations of following in the family's footsteps, making it hard for young adults to develop a sense of independence and autonomy. The third factor of family dynamics revolves around dining and cuisine in Italian culture. In researching the Italian culture, I have gained a greater appreciation of the culture itself.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. NUCHELLE L. CHANCE
sanderson31@missouriwestern.edu

Dorris, Jennifer. ETHNOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF LIFE IN KENYA.

In this research project, the culture of Kenya was analyzed using ethnographic methods to obtain qualitative data on the socio-cultural similarities and differences that exist between Kenya and the United States. Data collection included interviewing, reviewing popular media, and dining on Kenyan cuisine. Heavy emphasis on the difference in gender normativity and the differences experienced in everyday life between the two cultures was the focus of my research. As a result, I formed a greater appreciation of Kenyan culture by applying the psychological concepts of gender to personal communications, media, and the culture of food.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. NUCHELLE L. CHANCE
jdorris1@missouriwestern.edu

Henry, Brooke. CROSS-CULTURAL ETHNOGRAPHY RESEARCH STUDY IN IRISH CULTURE.

Using qualitative ethnography, I set out to explore the social phenomena of Irish culture and make contrasts on how that culture compares to the American culture. The purpose of this project was to immerse myself in Irish culture while applying cross-cultural and social psychological concepts. The researcher was guided by the following question: What are the social, gender, religious, and cultural norms variations between the Irish and American cultures? Both Irish and Western societies have similar psychological impacts in their cultures based on religion, social norms, and family structure. I have a deeper understanding of Ireland's cultural norms and appreciate that these variations occur between cultures.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. NUCHELLE L. CHANCE
bhenry3@missouriwestern.edu

King, Emylee. ETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY OF HISPANIC CULTURE IN AMERICA.

Using qualitative ethnography, I set out to explore the social phenomenon of culture's psychological impacts on the person within the Hispanic culture in America. The purpose of this project was to immerse myself in another culture while applying the psychological concepts of cultural competency and cross-cultural awareness. I was guided by the question: What are the similarities and differences within the Hispanic culture in the United States that psychologically impact a person? Cross-culturally, people experience similar social impacts, development of self-identity, and group identity within their cultures. The Hispanic experience within America is very similar yet also different within subcultures.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. NUCHELLE L. CHANCE
eking8@missouriwestern.edu

Montiel, Marian. ETHNOGRAPHIC EXPLORATION OF THE NICARAGUAN POLITICAL SYSTEM .

The purpose of this project was to immerse myself in the culture of Nicaragua to gain a better understanding and knowledge of the political system and explore the variances between the Nicaraguan and U.S. political systems. I used ethnographic methods to answer the question: What are the similarities and differences between the Nicaraguan and United States political systems? By applying the psychological principles of motivation, moral drives, and the psychology of revolution, I discovered that political systems in the U.S. are more structured for the country. In contrast, the Nicaraguan political system is referred to as a dictatorship by many.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. NUCHELLE L. CHANCE
mmontiel@missouriwestern.edu

Empirical Projects

Griffin, Alijah . WHERE DID THEY GO? THE PROBLEM OF STUDENT PERSISTENCE IN COLLEGE FROM FALL TO SPRING.

Persistence is student motivation to progress to the next semester. From Fall 2021 to Spring 2022, 341 Missouri Western students failed to persist. This study examines where and why students go. Admissions-provided data revealed most were non- residential. All were invited to interview; 2% agreed. Interviewees responded to queries about why they left and what might have helped them persist. Themes revealed lack of academic support and difficulties managing mental health. Stop-out data indicated few students transferred; those who did chose 4-year public schools. Future research should mine GPS data to determine if there is broader support for the identified themes.
Faculty Sponsor: KELLY HENRY
agriffin24@missouriwestern.edu

Gris, Michaela; Grunig, Issac; Hamid, Cohen; Long, Natasha; Meehan, Kylee; Nelson, Heather; Tolbert, Xan. ENGAGING THE NEXT GENERATION.

The current studies examines how tone of voice and color affect memory for information presented. Participants viewed a short video in one of four conditions: positive tone of voice with color slides, neutral tone of voice with color slides, positive tone of voice with black and white slides, or neutral tone of voice with black and white slides. After the video they took a short quiz on the information presented. Quiz scores were compared across the four conditions. No significant differences were found suggesting that all presentation styles were equally effective.
Faculty Sponsor: ZIEMER
mgris1@missouriwestern.edu

Mayer, Anna, Burkey, Kieran, McClunie, Dominique & Pearson, Wanda. WHO DONE IT?: EXAMINING SEX AND GENDER EFFECTS ON PERCEPTIONS OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY.

Researchers surveyed students on an anonymous self-report questionnaire to determine whether sex influences perceptions of criminal activity. We hypothesized that men would be more associated with severe crimes while women would be more associated with minor crimes. Our sample consisted of 105 reports from faculty and students at Missouri Western State University who were at least 18 years of age. Out of the 105 responses, only 97 participants fully completed the survey. Pearson Chi-Square revealed no correlation between the sex of the offenders and perceived criminal activity. However, a significant difference was found between the response sets of Latin/Hispanics and multicultural participants among one survey question.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. NUCHELLE L. CHANCE
nchance@missouriwestern.edu

Mendoza, Na-Ann; Hillyard, Christine, & Roumph, Maddy [Team #Sleep]. HIT SNOOZE FOR 5 MORE MINUTES: EXAMINING NOISE COLORS INFLUENCE ON SLEEP QUALITY .

Team #Sleep examined whether a relationship between noise color and sleep quality exists. The team hypothesized that noise color (i.e., white, brown, & pink) influences sleep quality. Therefore, the researchers anticipate the quality of sleep to rank from high to low in the following order: pink, white, then brown, with the control group of no sound coming in last. The study consisted of a demographic questionnaire, a health and behavior routine questionnaire, and a self-administrated sleep diary where participants rated their sleep quality. The sample consisted of 41 participants from the general population. Data analysis is ongoing; however, the team will calculate results using ANOVA.
Faculty Sponsor: DR. NUCHELLE L. CHANCE
nchance@missouriwestern.edu