{"id":5417,"date":"2023-01-03T08:44:04","date_gmt":"2023-01-03T14:44:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.missouriwestern.edu\/appliedlearning\/?page_id=5417"},"modified":"2023-01-03T08:44:04","modified_gmt":"2023-01-03T14:44:04","slug":"fall-2022-mrd","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.missouriwestern.edu\/appliedlearning\/fall-2022-mrd\/","title":{"rendered":"Fall 2022 MRD"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Program for the Fall 2022 Multidisciplinary Research Day<\/h2>\n
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DEPARTMENT OF Biology<\/h2>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
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Allen, Grace ; Bergen, Aden; Spradlin, Kyla<\/b>.\u00a0To Own or Not To Own: That is Possession<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Wildlife law is a broad topic that spans hundreds of human-animal interactions. The most important characterization of wildlife law describes how people can own or capture an animal, an in-depth process which requires knowledge of the situation in frightening detail. This focus on the definitions of owning and capturing are the fundamentals on which wildlife law relies. Without these interpretations, a hunter can claim ownership by first blood or pursuit alone. These solutions help simplify cases in which other factors are in play. The result of this research leads many to understand better the law that stands behind wildlife and allows for more concepts to be built upon itself.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Chevalier<\/span>
\nkspradlin@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Chambers, Braxton; Bell, Theresa; Franklin, Cody<\/b>.\u00a0Native American Wildlife Law<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Native American conservation law has witnessed a fair amount of controversy throughout its reign of establishment. As with most forms of wildlife law, there have been many changes to it over time in occurrence with the ever-modernizing political climate. This project seeks to address the history of Native American treaty law, the basics of Native American government, and a specific understanding of the operations of wildlife regarding Native Americans in and outside of reservations.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Cary Chevalier<\/span>
\nbchambers4@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Hendrickson, Zachary; Bicklein, Walter; Garza, Marissa<\/b>.\u00a0The Laws Surrounding Aquatic Mammals\u00a0<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
We Examined the literature of United States aquatic mammal law as well as how it relates to the Alaskan Natives.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. C<\/span>
\nzhendrickson1@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Kretzer, Em; Oldham, Daya; Cole, Madi<\/b>.\u00a0Endangered Species Act: Listing and Critical Habitat<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
A poster explaining the Endangered Species Act and what it does for species that face extinction, as well as defining critical habitat and what listing entails.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Cary Chevalier<\/span>
\nekretzer@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Vogt, Sam; Pavini, Amadeu; Stafford, Katy; Weber, Sonja<\/b>.\u00a0Important Laws and Acts of Marine Fishes<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
This is a Literature review over a presentation Dr. C made us do in Wildlife law. It will consists of different laws and acts about Marine fishes and the importance of these acts. The acts\/laws consists of the Shark Finning Prohibition Act, Magnuson-Stevens Act, and Billfish Conservation Act as well as some cases that contribute to these.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Cary Chevaliar<\/span>
\nsvogt@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
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Aparicio, Elijah; Karns, Daniel; Pyeatt, Brianna; Murphy, Thomas<\/b>.\u00a0Social Isolation on Mice Cortisol Levels<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Due to recent national health issues and the usage of more technology in everyday life, individual social isolation in human communities has increased over time. This has led to the proposition that social isolation can have adverse effects on the health of individuals. This project sought to prove this theory by conducting a salivary cortisol test on mice to observe if salivary cortisol levels will be higher in isolated individuals than in individuals housed in a community. Salivary cortisol levels can be a direct indicator for stress levels in individuals, and it was expected that mice who were isolated individually will have higher cortisol levels than those who were kept in community. This was compared to the natural behavior of mice, who typically live in communities. After housing a collection of mice and four isolated mice over a period, then testing the cortisol levels after euthanasia, we found that mice in isolated conditions had a higher average cortisol level than in communal conditions. With this data, it can then be implied that similar effects could occur in humans under the same conditions, as humans and mice have expressed similar behaviors in social and isolated environments.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Kristen Walton<\/span>
\neaparicio@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Larison, Teri; Menne, Colleen; Stafford, Katy; Schneider, Jeremy; Kuy, Jacob; Barta, Csengele<\/b>.\u00a0Soil enrichment with degrading velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) seeds enhances plant growth, development and delays senescence, showing enormous potential for future agricultural applications.<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens), has been reported to produce a variety of toxic compounds, such as L-dopa, tryptamines, phenols, and tannins. Due to the high concentrations of L-dopa (4\ufffd7%), in velvet bean vegetative tissues it became a commercial source of this substance, used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Velvet bean root exudates have also been reported have nematicidic effects, and notable allelopathic activity, suppressing the growth and development of competing plants. While the chemical effects on the environment of growing and developing velvet bean plants are becoming better characterized each day, the chemical impact of velvet bean at the seed stage, on the soil microbiome and competing plant species has not yet been investigated. The goal of this study was to assess whether non-germinating velvet bean seeds – hypothesized to also contain a wide array of water-soluble substances released during seed degradation into the soil, with potentially allelopathic effects \ufffd also impact plant growth and development.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Csengele Barta<\/span>
\ncbarta1@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Buehre, Shannon<\/b>.\u00a0SARS CoV-2 Omicron Variant Evolution in Major Cities across the United States<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
The virus SARS CoV-2 is characterized by its coating, and is known to continuously evolve through genetic mutations or viral recombination. According to the CDC, the variant of concern includes Omicron which contains seven lineages. Omicron was first identified in South Africa, and has traveled all across the world. The research conducted is comparing the spread and evolution of the Omicron and potential new sub lineages in major cities across the United States. With travel restrictions being lifted and international tourism returning to pre-pandemic levels, there were 207 million international travelers in June and July of 2022 in the United States. This study is aiming to see how the latest variants of SARS CoV-2 is evolving as it spreads internationally to major United States cities through tourism.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Roy and Dr. Grantham<\/span>
\nsbuehre@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Burroughs, Nora; Hart, Jessica; Coretti, Claire; Vine, Madi<\/b>.\u00a0How Isolation Affects the Small Intestine Weight of Mice<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Mice are naturally social animals. They prefer to live in the company of other mice in order to successfully reproduce and survive. The purpose of this study is to document the effects of social isolation on intestinal weight in each of the mice. We hypothesized that the socially isolated mice would have a lower small intestine weight compared to the socialized group mice. This more than two week experiment consisted of eight four week old female mice placed in either a group or solo setting. Mouse one, two, three, and four were housed together, and mouse five, six, seven, and eight were alone in their own cages. After more than two weeks of being in their respective habitats, the mice were humanely euthanized and each of the small intestines were dissected in order to be weighed out in grams. Body weight, food, and water consumption were also recorded throughout the experiment for additional data. The body weight of each individual mouse was recorded while food and water consumption was recorded per cage. The socially isolated mice average small intestine weight was smaller compared to the average group mice small intestine weight. With that being said, socially isolated mice ended up with a lower small intestine weight which concludes that they don\ufffdt thrive as well as mice who are in groups or are socialized.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Walton<\/span>
\nccoretti@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Chin, Bawi<\/b>.\u00a0New Zealand’s Apine Parrot<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Kea (Nestor notabilis) are a unique and endangered parrot (Psittacine) species endemic to New Zealand\ufffds Southern Alps. One of only three parrot species which evolved in isolation over millions of years, they are valued as one of the most intellectual bird species in the world and serve a crucial function as distributors and “cleaners” of alpine seeds. Understanding the Kea species’ natural habitat, lifespan and behavior in the wild, interactions with people, and the variety of hazards affecting them is essential for ensuring that they are managed and protected in an optimal way.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Tilottama Roy<\/span>
\nbchin@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Christopher, Destiny; Amos, Devin<\/b>.\u00a0The John Rushin Teaching and Research Prairie Survey Results<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
The John Rushin Teaching and Research Prairie was established in 2020, east of the 大象传媒 Western campus, as an ecosystem restoration project to open a new world of research and teaching opportunities for students and community members. Many native plant species were planted in hopes of building a flourishing, native ecosystem. Our goal is to survey the prairie and record the species we discover \ufffd the new and already found species. As the prairie ecosystem continues to grow, more natives come and go, and we wish to document it for future students to study. Our hope is for the prairie to one day be filled with only native species in order to better provide for the other native species.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Tilo Roy<\/span>
\ndamos2@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Derr, Kylee<\/b>.\u00a0Sailfin Water Lizard<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
The Sailfin Water Lizard (Hadrosaurus pustulatus), also known by its native name Ibid, are a unique and vulnerable lizard (Lacertilia) species that are mainly habitual to the various islands that make up the Philippines. However, this beautiful species can also be found in New Guinea and a variety of different areas in Eastern Indonesia. Their name is credited to the unique structure of their dorsal crests which are shaped similarly to that of a sail, a trait that allows them to be one of the most talented swimmers in their family (Agamidae). They are also credited with often having some of the most naturally beautiful scale patterns in their genus that come in a variety of colors, shapes, and arrangements. This natural beauty however is one of the exact reasons why they have become so vulnerable and their population so scarce in the wild. They are a common victim of the international pet trade as they are sought out by many exotic pet collectors for their desirable colorations and their unique sailfins. Understand the Ibid\ufffds habitat, symbiosis and the hazards that threaten their ecosystem is crucial in understanding the importance of the protection of their species and their conservation in the wild.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Tilottama Roy<\/span>
\nkderr2@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Huggans, Camryn; Cobb, Kadyn; Steele, Nicolas; Root, Connor<\/b>.\u00a0Immune Response in Socially Isolated Mus Musculus<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
The Mus musculus species, or common house mouse, is known to prefer conspecific social environments. This study aimed to investigate how development of juvenile mice is correlated to social isolation. Specifically, how the immune system structures varied between mice housed socially or in isolation during development. It was hypothesized that the socially isolated mice will have underdeveloped immune system structures, represented by a lower average mesenteric lymph node mass and a lower average white blood cell count compared to socially housed mice. The control group consisted of four juvenile female mice housed together in an enclosure. The treatment group consisted of four individually housed juvenile female mice. All enclosures were identical in food source, water dispensing, substrate, and size. Over the course of eight weeks, data was collected for food consumption, water intake, and mass per mouse. At the end of the eight week period, the mice were humanely euthanized and dissected. The mass of the mesenteric lymph node was collected and a blood smear was prepared for each mouse. The proportionate size of the mesenteric lymph node was calculated for the control and treatment groups as well as an average white blood cell count. The average values for each group were compared.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Walton<\/span>
\nchuggans@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Johnson, Brandon\u00a0<\/b>.\u00a0大象传媒 Rushin Prairie Invertebrate Surveys\u00a0<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
I constructed invertebrate surveys on the MWSU’s prairie by using the draft fences that have been placed on the prairie. There are three arrays of draft fences, and they were all three used for collecting data during my research.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Carissa Ganong<\/span>
\nbjohnson52@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Lewis, Brian<\/b>.\u00a0The Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Rafetus swinhoei or the Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle is a giant turtle listed on the IUCN Red List as endangered. The turtle is approximately 100 cm long and 70 cm wide. It is a dark brownish-green color with a lighter underbelly. It is found exclusively in the wetlands and rivers of Asia. There are only three known living members of the species alive still. Some efforts have been made to breed the turtles in captivity. They have been unsuccessful so far, with infertile eggs being produced. Their diet consists mainly of fish, frogs, crabs, and some river plants. They are one of the only predators to an invasive species of plant called Water Hyacinth. The turtles helped keep the population of this invasive species down, benefiting the river ecosystem as a whole. Humans have been one of the main factors leading to the endangerment of the turtles. Residential and commercial expansion, pollution, and climate change have all led to the decline of Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtles.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Roy<\/span>
\nblewis17@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Menne, Colleen; Larison, Terri; Kyser, Kate; Barta, Csengele<\/b>.\u00a0Prairie species\ufffd vulnerability to biological invasions: velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) suppresses big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) growth and development.<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
As consequence of land use change, agricultural repurposing, overgrazing, and biological invasions, the historical North American prairie ecosystem coverage has substantially declined in the past few decades. While agricultural practices substantially deplete soils of nutrients and enhance erosion, the native prairie vegetation features species with long and dense root systems, which enhance species\ufffd water use efficiency and prevent soil erosion. Their interactions with the soil biome enhance soil texture, quality and contribute to efficient nutrient cycling, thus providing particularly valuable ecosystem \ufffdservices\ufffd. Big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) is a warm season, perennial species, one of the \ufffdBig Four\ufffd (with Indian grass, switchgrass and little bluestem) native grass species to dominate the tallgrass prairies of Central North America (USDA, https:\/\/www.nrcs.usda.gov\/Internet\/FSE_PLANTMATERIALS\/publications\/gapmcfs 10550.pdf). The current work focused on better understanding the vulnerability of native prairie species to invasions and native-invasive species competition.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Csengele Barta<\/span>
\ncmenne@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Mott, Rachel; White, Hannah; Shultz, Reagan ; O’Callaghan, Katie\u00a0<\/b>.\u00a0Mouse Estrogen Levels in Solitary Vs Group Housing\u00a0<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
This project was about the estrogen levels of solitary housed mice compared to group housed mice. An estrone assay was used to measure the estrogen level in blood. Results will be analyzed according to the procedure.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Walton<\/span>
\nrmott2@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Newcomb, Sarah; Hickman, J’Lyssa Hickman; Hayden, Danielle; Weakley, Tadaeja<\/b>.\u00a0Mice socialization effects on the immune system<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
We used young female mice to determine if housing mice in groups or individually had an effect on the immune system. We determined this by counting white blood cells and weighting the spleen. We obtained eight female mice at four weeks of age and separated them into two groups. One group was housed together and one was housed individually. Each group had food and water provided as needed. The groups all had the food and water that they consumed and their weights measured and notated regularly throughout the experiment. After the mice were euthanized at six weeks old, we measured the weights of their spleens and obtained a blood sample to count the white blood cells for each group. Our results show a difference in food and water consumption, body weight, spleen weight, and white blood cell count for the two groups. For the mice housed together the white blood cell counts were higher than those of the mice housed individually, the weights of the spleens were also higher in mice housed together than mice that were isolated.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Kristen Walton<\/span>
\nsnewcomb@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
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Vogt, Sam<\/b>.\u00a0Upper Mississippi Conservation Area Internship<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
This poster presentation will be over my internship I did over the summer at the Upper Mississippi Conservation Area in Elsberry, MO. It consists on invasive plant removal, wetland management, and different work I did around conservation areas.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Cary Chevalier<\/span>
\nsvogt@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Vulgamott, Savannah<\/b>.\u00a0My Internship as a Park Naturalist: An Applied Learning Partnership between Clay County Parks and 大象传媒<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Over the summer of 2022, I had the pleasure of being a park naturalist for Clay County Parks in Northwest 大象传媒. Major components of the job included community outreach, invasive species removal, and habitat restoration. The community outreach allowed us to teach individuals of all ages and backgrounds about 大象传媒\ufffds native plants and animals. We were able to demonstrate the many facets of nature and how we as people play a large role in the ecosystem. Fishing, archery, guided hikes, and the presentation of captive native species were the highlights of each outreach we were able to organize. The invasive species removal procedures often included the use of a variety of herbicides in our prairies and along forest edges. The park has multiple prairies dedicated to bird and pollinator habitats but sericea lespedeza, johnson grass, and autumn olive are attempting to take over. Along with removing the invasives, I helped plant native prairie plants such as common milkweed and big bluestem. Throughout this internship, I learned the most about the native and invasive plant species we have and how to best identify them in the field. With this knowledge, I hope to create a native prairie on my personal property for the benefit of many wildlife. Along with specific knowledge, I gained an understanding of how a county parks system functions and the variety of individuals we can influence with our demonstrations of conserving and expanding native habitats.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Chevelier<\/span>
\nsvulgamott1@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

DEPARTMENT OF Biology, Other<\/h2>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
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Bigham, Journee; Sorrells, Mack; Myers, David<\/b>.\u00a0Wild Bird Conservation<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Background and information on past and present wild bird conservation
\nFaculty Sponsor: Cary Chevalier<\/span>
\njbigham2@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

DEPARTMENT OF Chemistry<\/h2>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
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Owen, Chad<\/b>.\u00a0GREENER CHEMILUMINESCENCE EXPERIMENT FOR THE ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LABORATORY<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
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. Of particular interest has been a solvent-free Wittig reaction for the synthesis of the fluorescer used in the chemiluminescence reaction. This poster will describe the progress made toward preparing a dependable, greener chemiluminescence experiment for organic chemistry laboratories.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Steve Lorimor<\/span>
\ncowen1@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Randleman, Josiah<\/b>.\u00a0Development of PyFGH: A Python-based Software That Uses the Fourier Grid Hamiltonian Method To Calculate The Numerical Computation of Vibrational Properties<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Through a collaboration with the department of chemistry and computer science at 大象传媒, PyFGH was created. PyFGH is a program that was designed and developed using quantum mechanics to calculate vibrational energies on non-linear triatomic molecules using the Fourier Grid Hamiltonian Method. PyFGH was developed with Python. Our program consists of two different segments. The first segment is the front-end aka the graphical user interface (GUI). The second segment of our program is the back-end aka the engine of the program. The front-end is programmed with Python\ufffds Tkinter Library. The engine of the program consists of Python\ufffds Object-Oriented classes, mathematical calculation files, etc. One of the top goals of our project was to develop a way to calculate vibrational properties of small molecules, with an easy-to-use GUI. After the user enters all the required data in the GUI, our engine takes that data and then saves it into Python classes. After the objects have been created, our engine then takes the objects and then distributes the data to the required files. After the calculation files receive their data, they all then perform their individual calculations. After the calculations are completed, those calculations go back to the main engine file and are displayed to the user. We took our project\ufffds engine and created a Python Library on PyPI. After downloading our library, an individual can set all of the required values and can then call our engine to perform the desired calculations. Our GUI-based version is limited to only calculating 1 molecule per cycle. With my library, an individual could create a loop and can make multiple calls to the engine. With calling our library an infinite number of molecules could be calculated per cycle. We also took our Python API and we also created a website for our project. Using PHP and Python, we created a web application that runs our program on a web server. All of the calculations are sent to a server. After the data arrives at the server, the server then performs the calculations and then sends the data back to the user. We created this application to help make our program more accessible for anyone wanting to use our program.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Jeff Woodford<\/span>
\njrandleman@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Stapf, Jude<\/b>.\u00a0Synthesis and Characterization of Thioctic Acid Modified Gold Nanoparticles for Room Temperature Ionic Liquid Applications<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Ionic liquid modified gold nanoparticles have application in chemical sensors as well as chemical separation. Synthesis of such a compound is challenging and requires a creative approach. In this work, a reverse engineering strategy was implemented to synthesize high surface density thioctic acid modified gold nanoparticles. These will be used to form methylimidazolium based ionic liquid modified gold nanoparticles. The synthesis of the particles was performed by stabilizing excess thioctic acid with a slow addition of NaCl. The synthesis and products will be described in this poster presentation.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Michael Ducey<\/span>
\njstapf@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Wiggins Jr, Andre<\/b>.\u00a0PVC Optical Sensors Modified With Room Temperature Ionic Liquids<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
This work will describe the development of polymer-based optical sensors utilizing the unique properties of ionic liquids. This is done by using Reichardt\ufffds dye, a solvochromatic compound, to indicate what changes occur when the sensor comes into contact with a polar substance. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and carboxylated Polyvinyl chloride (cPVC) polymers were modified with 1-methyl-3-methylimidazolium bis[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]imide room temperature ionic liquid and Reichardt\ufffds dye and cast onto a glass plate. These polymers were then tested with differing concentrations of the ionic liquid and dye. The fluorescence of each was observed for qualitative differences when placed in distilled water. The concentration of dye that was in each cast polymer was directly correlated to the amount of fluorescence. The color of said fluorescence went through observable changes when placed into distilled water as well, indicating that there was some shift in polarity.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Michael Ducey<\/span>
\nawigginsjr@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

DEPARTMENT OF Chemistry, Social Sciences & Humanities<\/h2>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
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Chappell, Quentin<\/b>.\u00a0How the Advertisement “Got Milk?”” Affected the Nation”<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
The advertisement \ufffdgot milk?\ufffd was actually the second advertisement they went for as the first one was just \ufffdmilk?\ufffd But it was argued that it was so simple it would cause people to think that milk was for unintelligent people. The \ufffdGot Milk?\ufffd campaign caused a jump in milk consumption and has had an everlasting effect that is not likely to go away. The question is whether that was a good effect, being that a lot of the population can\ufffdt digest milk and many argue that our bodies should not be digesting milk after age 5.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Dominic DeBrincat, Dr. Shauna Hiley<\/span>
\nhiley@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Hinson, Seth<\/b>.\u00a0Ayahuasca<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Ayahuasca is a tincture, an herbal infusion traditionally used by South American indigenous peoples. This brew contains hallucinogenic compounds, and for thousands of years has been consumed by those seeking an enhanced state of self or deep truths of the world. This literature review examines the history of the drink, the chemicals which provide its effects, and its place in the modern world. Ayahuasca has had a large impact on South American indigenous peoples\ufffd ideas of medicine and knowledge, with the mind-altering effects of the drugs being perceived as higher knowledge that only a trained mind can comprehend. This perception is in part why shamans are and have been respected members of these communities for so long, as they would be the ones braving the storm and bringing back new knowledge. This \ufffdknowledge\ufffd is brought on by a slurry of mind-altering compounds, most notably. N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT). DMT is a hallucinogenic compound which works on specific receptors in the brain to produce strong effects. Today, there is strong interest from outsiders in the effects of DMT, and ayahuasca as an experience. Unfortunately, DMT is illegal in most countries. It is becoming increasingly common for people to take guided trips in countries where ayahuasca is traditional, being guided by a Shaman for the experience. The prevalence of these trips, and the lack of true appreciation by most outsiders, has led to a cultural diminishing for the peoples who have done this for thousands of years.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Dominic DeBrincat, Dr. Shauna Hiley<\/span>
\nhiley@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Holmes, Ellen<\/b>.\u00a0The History of Eggnog and Its Association With the Riot at West Point in 1826<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Eggnog, a traditional holiday drink, made itself the name of a riot at the Military Academy of West Point on Christmas, 1826 when cadets smuggled in whiskey despite strict prohibition rules against alcohol. A riot ensued after officers attempted to stop the party, resulting in windows smashes, officers assaulted, and the North Barracks destroyed. Later, 19 cadets were court-martialed and expelled. Jefferson Davis, future president of the Confederacy, participated in the riot along with seventy cadets and avoided expulsion. Today, celebrations at West Point have alcohol available in extremely limited quantities. This poster aims to inform about the riot and go in-depth on the causes and effects of this upheaval.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Dominic DeBrincat, Dr. Shauna Hiley<\/span>
\nhiley@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Mareske, Barak<\/b>.\u00a0The History of Hot Chocolate<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Since its origins, cocoa and hot chocolate have had polarized usage among populations. From Mesoamerica, their indigenous beverage known as xocolatl was a buttery paste made of cacao beans, cornmeal, peppers, and water, with various additions to make the paste more palatable. Both before and after European adoption in the sixteenth century, the beverage has been used to treat health issues, such as upset stomach, fever, heart issues, and dysentery. Its efficacy has been debated, and various sources claim that cocoa is better served as a food item, introducing the more modern liquid form, as well as various chocolate candies. Information was gathered from various databases, and the results are mostly accurate to the claims made by accounts before modern science. The natural compounds found within cacao beans do provide a degree of improved digestion, and can calm upset stomachs. It is still a beverage or food to be consumed in moderation, as the original Aztecan recipe does provide health benefits, provided the benefits are needed in a person. Modern day chocolate often offsets its benefits with the high addition of sugars. Further delving into the subject may reveal more specific compounds responsible for these health benefits, as many that are found in cocoa beverages are akin to that of tea and wine.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Dominic DeBrincat, Dr. Shauna Hiley<\/span>
\nhiley@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Owen, Chad<\/b>.\u00a0Kefir, the Drink of Eastern Europe<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Kefir is a fermented milk drink that has been a popular staple in Eastern Europe since at least the late nineteenth century, though there is evidence that supports kefir existing in 2nd millennium B.C. China and in 5200-4800 B.C. Poland. Kefir was originally and has been used as a medicinal remedy for a number of medical issues, including anemia, struma, and chronic bronchitis. It is produced by introducing a lactose devouring symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), a grain also called kefir, to milk. The kefir making process has been found to remove any mycotoxins, toxic compounds that are naturally produced by certain fungi, that were present in the milk used to produce it. Kefir is very quick and easy to make and due to the SCOBY consuming the lactose, those who are lactose intolerant are able to drink it. This presentation will look into the history of kefir, its medical benefits, and how to make kefir at home.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Shauna Hiley, Dr. Dominic DeBrincat<\/span>
\nhiley@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Rowland, Katelyn<\/b>.\u00a0Store-Bought or Fresh-Squeezed: Which is the Better Orange Juice?<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Phenolic compounds in orange juice are mostly represented by flavonoids and phenolic acids. Previous scholarly research shows a significant difference in the number of flavonoids and phenolic acids in fresh-squeezed orange juice than in commercially squeezed orange juice. Flavonoids, a 15-carbon skeleton with two phenyl rings and a heterocyclic ring, are naturally occurring plant compounds, rich in fruits and vegetables and pose many health benefits. Phenolic acids are substances containing a phenolic ring and an organic carboxylic acid function that is vital in the defense response in the human body. The flavonoids and phenolic acids are what give orange juice health benefits. Phenolic compounds were analyzed from freshly squeezed juice and from commercially squeezed juices and comparisons were performed to determine if there is a significant difference in the composition of the two juices produced. Evidence supports the claim that freshly squeezed orange juice is more successful in providing health benefits than commercially squeezed juices.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Dominic DeBrincat, Dr. Shauna Hiley<\/span>
\nhiley@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Stapf, Jude<\/b>.\u00a0Pseudo-Scientific Claims in Advertising for Dan Ackroyd\ufffds Crystal Vodka<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Celebrity alcohols see high profits in the market due to the figure they are associated with. However, in the case of Dan Ackroyd\ufffds Crystal Vodka, he wanted the vodka to speak for itself with its purity. Boasting high quality due to a quadruple distillation process and triple filtration process through Herkimer diamonds. While the distillations do increase the purity of the vodka, the method in which the filtrations are performed are a placebo in terms of how it changes the alcohol. It was found through thorough research that the size of the Herkimer diamonds used in the filtration process are too big to accurately filter any materials out. If diamonds or other quartz crystals are used for filtration, then they should be sized closer to grains of sand for maximum effectiveness. This shows that the claims of purity that come from Crystal Skull Vodka are more fiction then they are fact.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Shauna Hiley, Dr. Dominic DeBrincat<\/span>
\nhiley@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
\n
Fitzgerald, Alex<\/b>.\u00a0Determination of Caffeine in Somilo Silver Energy Drink<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Caffeine is critical when it comes to the key components of an energy drink. This study was conducted to check the integrity of the nutritional facts provided by Somilo. To identify these components, 100mL of Solimo Silver Energy Drink was added to methylene chloride, then heated, along with running the new caffeine extract through a gas chromatograph and a mass spectrometer (GCMS). The data provided from Somilo shows that in 743mL of energy drink, there is 152 mg \/ 16 fl oz of caffeine. Converted to milligrams per milliliters is 0.321 mg\/ml of caffeine. The data found from the gas chromatography and mass spectrometer shows that for caffeine content in the same amount of energy drink was 0.251 mg\/mL of caffeine. The concluded statement was there is less caffeine in Solimo energy drinks than the company has stated on the nutritional facts. However, further research with better technology is needed to reinforce this finding.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Shauna Hiley, Dr. Dominic DeBrincat<\/span>
\nhiley@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

DEPARTMENT OF Communications<\/h2>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
\n
Bruegman, Lynden; Stringer, Trevin; Fuller, Kayla; O’Meara , Zoe<\/b>.\u00a0Usability Study of Lego Instructions<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
We conducted a test on the usability of a set of instructions included with a Lego set. Jakob Nielsen defines usability as \ufffda quality attribute that assesses how easy an interface is to use.\ufffd We used think-aloud protocol while one individual used the instructions to build a small police car from the pieces in the set which provided an unfiltered angle on the individual’s thoughts on the instructions and how they were to use. After the test was completed, we conducted a follow-up interview to get further thoughts on the instructions and the individual’s overall experience.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Kaye Adkins<\/span>
\nlbruegman@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Chou, Nicole; Mendez, Jaina; Fowler, Catilynn; McGuinn, Javerius<\/b>.\u00a0Rubik’s Cube Usability Test<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Introduction According to Grice (1995), the characteristics of usability are: ? User-centered, sufficient, brief ? Usable information should focus on the user. It should not be long and overcomplicated. Short and precise works just as well, if not better (p.131-132).? We chose Wired.com which has different articles, ranging from economy, politics to simple instructions. ?The Rubik\ufffds Cube project was created to help users complete the Rubik\ufffds cube. The instructions do not contain pictures. We chose these instructions to see if no pictures makes it less user-friendly.? Methodology We chose 4 test subjects, each having little to no Rubik\ufffds Cube experience. We took them to someplace quiet so they wouldn\ufffdt be distracted by noises. When beginning this test, we asked them to say aloud any thoughts they had while following these instructions. After giving the test subjects the instructions and a Rubik\ufffds Cube, we had them begin. We gave them 25 minutes to finish the cube.? Throughout their test we recorded:? ? How long it took them to complete the cube? ? Any comments they had while completing the cube? After they were finished, we asked them what would make the instructions more usable for any user, what difficulties they faced, and for any additional comments they had. Then we shared our results with the other group members to evaluate the usability of the Rubik\ufffds cube instructions. Results & Discussion When testing these instructions we were looking to see exactly how usable they were for? any type of user. Our test subjects had little to no experience with Rubik\ufffds Cube which helped us decide if these instructions were user-friendly. All of the users could not complete the Rubik\ufffds Cube.?The incompletion is one reason why the Rubik\ufffds Cube instructions need to be revised. One of the characteristics of usability is user-centered. If all the test subjects couldn\ufffdt complete the?cube, then the instructions must not have contained information that can satisfy their needs. Conclusions After analyzing all of the results from our usability tests, I conclude that Wired.com\ufffds Rubik\ufffds Cube instructions should not be recommended.? It doesn\ufffdt matter if the user has experience with the Rubik\ufffds Cube or not. The instructions should have included images of the cube after every step the user took. It also shouldn\ufffdt expect the users to memorize the algorithms. To improve on this, the instructions should assign different names to the faces and directions of the Rubik’s cube.? References Grice, R. A. (1995). Focus on Usability. Technical Communication, 42(1), 131\ufffd133. http:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/43095089
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Kaye Adkins<\/span>
\nnchou@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Cox, Morgan; Gonzalez, Ricardo; Dabessa, Firaol<\/b>.\u00a0Usability Study of How to Tie a Four-In-Hand Knot Tie<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Cox, Morgan, Dabessa, Firaol, Gonzalez, Riccardo. Usability Study of How to Tie a Four-In-Hand Knot Tie. The usability study of how to tie a Four-In-Hand knot tie was to test 3 participants to see how usable the set of instructions produced by Ties.com was. Throughout each test, we provided each participant with the same set of instructions. We used a think-aloud protocol to have the participant communicate what they were thinking while following the set of instructions. We also took notes of participants’ comments, the time it took, the quality of the tie, and a series of post-test questions addressing how they thought the test went with any additional suggestions to improve the set of instructions.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Adkins<\/span>
\nmcox18@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Donaldson, Emma; Kroonenberg, Keeley; Henning, Weston; Richey, Miranda<\/b>.\u00a0Usability Study of Origami Crane Making Instructions<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Usability is how easy it is to use a system effectively and efficiently to achieve specific goals. For this project, we took thesprucecrafts.com instructions on creating an origami paper crane and conducted a usability test. We gave three subjects 20 minutes to fold a paper crane while using the think-aloud protocol throughout the process. One subject was allowed to continue folding a crane until they were finished after nearly double the amount of time allotted by the instructions.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Kaye Adkins<\/span>
\nedonaldson2@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Euler, Shane; Bingham, Jayden; Carr, Kevondrick<\/b>.\u00a0Usability Test: Applying Band-Aid Instructions<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Usability is the core principle in every product that is created, and every set of instructions needed to build and understand a product. To test usability of instructions, we (Shane Euler, Kevondrick Carr, Jayden Bingham) chose to test Band-Aid instructions on how to properly apply a band-aid, from Pinterest.com. These tests for usability measured time to complete the instructions, mistakes made resulting in referring back to the instructions, and any start overs. Participants were urged to use the think-aloud protocol during the test to relay their thoughts\/feelings. After the tests, each participant was asked some interview questions.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Kaye Adkins<\/span>
\njbingham3@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Fuller, Joshua; Eggleston, Trey; Mohd Fauzi, Aiman; Shoemaker, Hannah<\/b>.\u00a0Usability Study of Origami Frog Instructions<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Usability is how efficiently and effectively a set of instructions can be used to achieve a desired outcome. We tested the usability of instructions to make an origami jumping frog. We measured the time it took for the participants to complete the instructions, the number of times the participants went to each step, and used the think-aloud protocol to record the participants\ufffd comments.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Kaye Adkins<\/span>
\njfuller6@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Johnson, Brayden; Hoecker, Johnathan; Howard, Tolbin; Barnett, Cayren<\/b>.\u00a0Usability Study of Ukulele Tuning Instructions<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
We evaluated the usability of a set ukulele tuning instructions. Using time trials and a think-aloud protocol, three participants used the ukulele instructions and the instructions were evaluated using both time and responses from a post test questionnaire. This data was used to evaluate the level of usability present in the instructions.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Kaye Adkins<\/span>
\nbjohnson56@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Lovelady, Caden; Bears, Erika; Daniel, Tristan; Rice, Chasity<\/b>.\u00a0Usability Study of Shut the Box Instructions<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Usability is a concept essential to to any functioning society where people are utilizing what others create. Successful usability is the ability of an object to convey clearly to it’s user how it is supposed to be used. And in order for usability to be successful on a large scale it must first manage to be successful on a small scale. The purpose of this empirical project was to discover or analyze the usability of a game: Shut The Box.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Adkins<\/span>
\nclovelady@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Ludemann, Dakotah; Kerns, Daniel; Sprout, Mickeyalla; Sample, Allie<\/b>.\u00a0Monopoly Usability Testing<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Using Usability testing we tested the effectiveness of the instructions of monopoly. Participants were tasked with preparing a game of monopoly for four individual players. They were timed on how quickly and efficiently they took to set up the same for four players. The participant’s comments during the test were recorded and were then later asked following the task some observation questions.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Kaye Adkins<\/span>
\ndludemann@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Owens, Chloe; Mort, Wyatt; Bowder, Jron<\/b>.\u00a0Usability Test: Peanut Butter Brownie Instructions<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
My group has chosen to see if the Betty Crocker peanut butter cookie brownie boxed mix meets standards for usability. We recorded the number of times that participants had to check the instructions, used the think-aloud protocol to record their feelings about the instructions, as well as a brief interview after the test was over. Based on the data that we have gathered we have decided that while the instructions are acceptable, they do not reach a level necessary for excellence as a result of several key flaws.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Kay Adkins<\/span>
\nlowens9@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Schank, Kendall; Ford, Heaven; Wilson, Charleigh; Ogunsan, Oluwadarasimi<\/b>.\u00a0TEST OF THE USABILITY OF INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE ENGLAND FLYER PAPER AIRPLANE.<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Usability is essential for users to follow instructions successfully. Our usability study was of instructions to make The England Flyer paper airplane. We analyzed quantitative data to see how long it took the participants to make the airplane and we used the think-aloud protocol to obtain qualitative data to understand the faults and strengths of the instructions. This was used to determine what does and does not make the instructions user-friendly.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Kaye Adkins<\/span>
\nkschank1@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Zook, Kayla; Soto, Ana; Daley, KJ<\/b>.\u00a0Usability Study of Tapeless gift wrapping<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Instructions are supposed to be satisfying, effective, and efficient, but not all instructions meet these standards. We tested the usability of a youtube video titled Japan Gift Wrap Hack [No Tape, No Ribbon] from the channel BeatTheBush. During this process we tested five individuals using a think-aloud protocol to receive feedback on the usability of the video. From this we measured the time taken to finish and the number of times the video was paused. We also compared the end result of our participants to the video’s end result.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Kaye Adkins<\/span>
\nkzook@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

DEPARTMENT OF Communications, Other<\/h2>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
\n
Collier, Josh; Fuller, Joshua; Payeur, Mayzie<\/b>.\u00a0Brain Plasticity, the Body’s Superpower for Healing Traumatic Brain Injury<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Brain plasticity is the ability of a brain to recover and adapt from traumatic injury. The ability of the brain to recover is a mysterious and fascinating phenomenon that many animals are capable of but study can be limited due to its complex nature. Studying brain plasticity and how it occurs is important as it will help us understand how we develop. Its study will also improve treatment for those who have suffered from traumatic brain injury.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Elias<\/span>
\njcollier2@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

DEPARTMENT OF Engineering Technology<\/h2>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
\n
Kollore, Aniya<\/b>.\u00a0Bluebeam Revu<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
For this project, I am proposing how the use of Bluebeam Revu helps with the analysis, collaboration and the distribution of documents and occasionally the designs within the engineering field. Construction engineering is really focusing on managing projects and making sure that they are being built on time and in accordance with all specifications. Using any CAD program to create designs that you can then move to Bluebeam Revu , to look over and hold said designs that you and of your team members can review and update all at once.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Zhu, JinWen<\/span>
\nakollore@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
\n
Clark, Evan<\/b>.\u00a0Gray Manufacturing\u00a0<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
My poster is about Gray Manufacturing, what the company does, the process behind the finished product. As well as my own experience with my internship and detailing what I did exactly.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Yang<\/span>
\nrclark15@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Lane, Casey<\/b>.\u00a0Altec Internship<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Altec is one of the leading the manufacturer of utility trucks. Altec was found 1929. My internship at Altec was more working maintenance department and helping the team with contractors and vendors on supplying parts while also working with the manufacturing engineers on machine placement.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Jinwen Zhu<\/span>
\nclane5@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Rueschhoff, Tyler<\/b>.\u00a0Habitat for Humanity internship<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
For the past 5 months I have been working with the St. Joseph Habitat for Humanity construction crew. Habitat for humanity is an organization that helps people in need that need homes but don\ufffdt have a lot of money. Habitat for humanity is a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes. This has been amazing step for me as it is my first experience in the field doing construction work. And I have done so much so far, this including sheeting, framing, hanging trusses, painting, shingling a roof etc.. I really enjoy working for Habitat For Humanity
\nFaculty Sponsor: JinWen Zhu<\/span>
\ntrueschhoff@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

DEPARTMENT OF Nursing<\/h2>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
\n
Bazalaki, Ari; Benny, Flemina; Chau, Kieu; Dalen, Allyah; Lavin, Reagan; Terry, Miranda; Wood, Cydney<\/b>.\u00a0Effect of Preoperative Physical Therapy on Postoperative Pain<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
The subject of study is acute postoperative pain. Education on preoperative rehabilitation will increase preoperative rehabilitation participation and therefore decrease acute pain in patients receiving major joint surgery. Historically, poor pain control in the acute setting following major joint surgery leads to increased risk for long-term pain and poorer outcomes. Recent literature and practice, however, shows that the use of pre-operative physical therapy can reduce pain and improve outcomes for patients, including shorter hospital stays and increased postoperative functionality of the afflicted limb. The search terms preoperative rehabilitation and pain control were used, in accordance with the aim of the project: education on preoperative rehabilitation as well as a decrease in pain levels experienced by patients who participated in preoperative rehabilitation. The literature review includes systematic review studies, cohort studies, retrospective studies and expert opinions detailing the effects of preoperative rehabilitation on pain levels. Common themes include: major joint surgery, pain relief and preoperative physical therapy. Keywords: postoperative pain, PACU, meta-analysis, rehabilitation, analgesia
\nFaculty Sponsor: Mackenzie Evans<\/span>
\nrlavin@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Gardner, Kylie; Golden, Hadley; Waddle, Autumn; Ray, Aubria; Ducey, Olivia; Daniels, Bailey<\/b>.\u00a0Acupuncture in Patients with Urinary Retention<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Catheter associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) is a common complication in patients that have urinary catheters placed. Acupuncture is an alternative to catheters for patients with urinary retention. Many medical-surgical patients suffer from urinary retention, or difficulty emptying their bladder. The most common intervention for medical-surgical patients with urinary retention is the insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter. Urinary catheters have a strong correlation with urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections are known to increase the length of the hospital stay and can also lead to mortality. Research indicates that acupuncture is an effective alternative to urinary catheterization to treat urinary retention.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Sarah Findley<\/span>
\nhgolden@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Mavel, Kenna; Curran, Lauren; Schweizer, Makayla; Curran (Not able to present), Jacob; Carnahan (Not able to present), Ely; Dollar (Not able to present), Abbey<\/b>.\u00a0The Use of Pre-Hospital Electrocardiograms and Decreased Patient Mortality\u00a0<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
An ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), otherwise known as a heart attack that causes damage to the heart muscle, requires prompt and specific intervention to be survivable. Current mortality rates from this health issue are climbing due to a delay in treatment time. In patients experiencing an acute STEMI, the use of pre-hospital electrocardiograms (ECGs), compared to the current standard of care, can decrease the amount of time from arrival in the emergency room to admission to the cardiac catheterization laboratory. Cardiac catheterization leads to the best prognosis for life following the stress put on the heart by a myocardial infarction. This literature review discusses the results obtained from several different studies conducted regarding the treatment and outcomes of patients who experienced a STEMI. Through careful analysis of these studies, it can be concluded that prompt admission to the cardiac catheterization laboratory leads to a decrease in mortality for the affected patients. Implementing this strategy into hospitals is essentially cost-free as ambulances are already equipped with machines capable of taking a 12-lead ECG. This could reduce the length of stays and prevent other complications that are often paid for by the hospital, potentially reducing annual costs for hospitals. A barrier to implementing this is getting Emergency Medical Services (EMS) on board with changing their current transport process. A meeting with the president and board of the hospital as well as the directors of local EMS to discuss these procedural changes will be necessary for the implementation of this intervention.
\nFaculty Sponsor: MacKenzie Evans, MSN, APRN, FNP-C<\/span>
\nmmavel@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
\n
Anderson, Makayla; Bindel, Makenna; Duvall, Kristen ; Flores, Fred; Cicha, Andrew; Lambertz, Elizabeth<\/b>.\u00a0Analysis of the Septic Bundle<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Abstract Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that needs to be identified as soon as one starts to notice the signs and symptoms of it. Studies have shown that med\/surg floors are not identifying sepsis soon enough to be able to use the sepsis bundle protocol that has been put in place to be able to treat it. The purpose of this paper is to gather the information needed to know if the use of the sepsis bundle in suspected sepsis patients compare to current practices are appropriate and adequate in reducing mortality rates. In the article Severe Sepsis Bundles, the researchers\ufffd Khan and Divatia, found that there is a decrease in mortality with the use of a septic bundle. Specifically, when the bundle is initiated within 24 hours of the suspicion. The 24 hour sepsis management bundle is used for patients suspected septic shock. This bundle follows certain medication guidelines to prevent the sepsis or septic shock from progressing (Khan P, Divatia JV). The progression of septic shock is inhibited by implementing medical interventions that limit the systemic and dealdy effects of a septic shock. This early interventions allow the limitations of cellular damage due to the systemic infection. Compared to other practices, early intervention is proven to be key in limiting mortality rate with septic shock. In this paper, a considerable amount of studies were analyzed to conceive a meta-analysis with the focus on determining and proving if the use of a sepsis bundle decreases mortality rates in comparison to current practices. The result of this meta-analysis ultimately led to the conclusion that the use of the sepsis bundle dramatically decreases mortality rates.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Sarah Findley<\/span>
\nmkerns3@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Andrews, Katherine; Anderson, Taralyn; Boude, Shelby; Brower, Preston; Schaeffer, Kaylee; Tran, Anh<\/b>.\u00a0Sepsis Identification Tools to Reduce Sepsis Mortality<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Sepsis is a life-threatening emergency and is an extreme body reaction to an existing infection. Early detection and treatment of sepsis is key to improving outcomes and decreasing mortality. Many hospitals have sepsis treatment protocols to put in place once sepsis has been diagnosed, but those are only effective if the patient\ufffds condition is recognized with enough time to act. The goals of this study were to investigate whether increased use of early sepsis identification tools are effective in decreasing mortality rates of sepsis deaths in hospitals, decreasing length of inpatient stay, and preventing progression to severe sepsis or septic shock. A literature review was conducted and found articles that support the idea that sepsis identification tools improve the survival rate and decrease hospital stays and rates of transferring the patient to a higher level of care. Then, a plan was created to implement an early sepsis identification tool on a 25 bed med\/surg unit with the aim of decreasing mortality by 50%.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Mackenzie Evans<\/span>
\nkandrews2@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Cornett, Rachel; McGregor, Kimberlee; Nguyen, Uyen; Parsley, Stephanie; Pithan, Bailey<\/b>.\u00a0Postoperative Pain Management in the Preoperative Stage\u00a0<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
A thorough literature review determined that exposure and practicing comfort measures and other non-pharmacological interventions during the preoperative phase drastically improved postoperative outcomes in multiple categories including pain management, side effects, improved healing times, and mental health. Reductions of chronic pain and the use of pharmacological pain interventions during the postoperative phase serve as important factors of this research project. The aim of this project is that by discharge, patients will utilize comfort measures to manage pain in a postoperative setting when pain level is less than 5\/10. Another aim of this project is that 70% of patients will no longer require pharmacological interventions with pain level less than 6\/10, by their discharge date. The Partnership Care Delivery Model concludes that partnerships between patients and the multidisciplinary team empower patients to make decisions and manage their own care. By empowering patients to take an active role in their care and decision making, it could be concluded that patients will have better outcomes in the postoperative phase. Stakeholders and team members invested or interested in this project include the patients, family members, nurses, providers, pharmacists, physical therapists and occupational therapists. Funding this project would be requested from the National Institute of Health and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The total cost of the research project would be approximately $19,280 with the cost of personnel, training, and materials. Some barriers for completing this project would include cultural differences, short hospital stays, gender, and age.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Sarah Findley<\/span>
\nkmcgregor@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
McNeely, Grayson; Gordon, Ally; Moreland, Brecken; Parksel, Reginald; Lenz, Claire ; Ho, Ngan; Miller , Blake\u00a0<\/b>.\u00a0Treating Hypertension During Pregnancy<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Hypertension in pregnant women can affect the health of the mother and baby. If not properly treated hypertension can increase the risk of an emergency cesarean section. High blood pressure levels can cause poor blood supply to the fetus, possibly leading to a slower growth rate, low birth weight, malnourishment, and premature labor. Although there are risks of taking medications while pregnant, there is a higher risk of problems associated with pregnant women having uncontrolled hypertension. Several different studies compared the effectiveness of nifedipine versus labetalol to treat hypertension in pregnant women. Labetalol and nifedipine have been deemed safe for the use of pregnant women and work by relaxing the blood vessels and lowering the heart rate, improving blood flow and decreasing pressure in the arteries, resulting in lower blood pressure. Nifedipine is more likely to drastically decrease blood pressure levels, leading to decreased uterine perfusion, low oxygen levels to the baby, and an increased risk of superimposed preeclampsia. Therefore, labetalol is shown to be more effective in lowering blood pressure levels in pregnant women than nifedipine. Keywords: Pregnant women, hypertension, emergency cesarean section, unplanned cesarean section, labetalol, nifedipine, medication, vaginal birth
\nFaculty Sponsor: Sarah Findley<\/span>
\ngnoll@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

DEPARTMENT OF Other<\/h2>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
\n
Hite, Carlen; Brown, Karsyn; Saddler, Brynn<\/b>.\u00a0Different Types of Breast Cancer<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Many women, some men included, all over the world battle breast cancer. Whilst some successfully beat the devastating illness, losses still derive from the existing fight. We will look at the different ways that cancer cells affect breast tissue, with the intention to emit an understanding of why as well as how cancer cells can become so devastating on the tissue.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Ashley Elias<\/span>
\naelias1@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Killion, Molly; Smith, Abby; Calhoun, Trystin<\/b>.\u00a0Coral Bleaching<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
This poster will be a literature review about what coral bleaching is, what causes it, and what can be done to prevent it. Coral bleaching is when coral turns white due to stressors to its environment, and reduces its growth until it eventually dies. It is important to prevent this because coral reefs help to reduce carbon emissions and provide an important habitat to many different species. We can reduce coral bleaching by doing what we can to reduce our own carbon emissions, on a larger scale conservationists are working to transplant stronger, healthier coral to reefs that are in need of extra help.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Elias<\/span>
\nmkillion@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
\n
Lewis, Brian; Fitzgerald, Alex<\/b>.\u00a0Synthetic Turf Fields Lead to Higher Rates of Injury When Compared to Natural Fields in the NFL<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
The National Football League utilizes both synthetic turf fields and natural grass fields for its games. It is thought that the synthetic turf fields lead to higher rates of injury when compared to the natural grass fields. This study explored whether there was a meaningful correlation between the turf fields and higher rates of lower body injuries. Firstly, injuries to the lower body were collected over 5 seasons. This data was then used to construct models that estimated the impact field type had on lower body injuries that led to players having to sit out. Another study was also conducted to measure only non-contact and surface contact injuries. The findings from this were a 16% increase in lower body injuries when playing on turf fields rather than natural grass. This increase in injuries remained the same when considering injuries that sidelined a player for shorter periods of time, and when only using injuries in the knee and ankle\/foot. The correlation for an increase in injuries was even higher from the study on non-contact\/surface contact injuries only. The results of these studies support the hypothesis that synthetic turf fields lead to more lower body injuries in NFL players.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Ashley Elias<\/span>
\nblewis17@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

DEPARTMENT OF Psychology<\/h2>\n

Empirical Projects<\/h3>\n
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Brady, Madison; Lewey, Becky; Galloway, Justice; George, Ashlyn; Hall, Jordan; Vandel, Faith<\/b>.\u00a0The Relationship Between Gender Role Identity, Personal Care Products, and Brand Loyalty in Consumers<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Participants (N=72) were classified as either feminine, masculine, androgynous or undifferentiated after completing Bem\ufffds (1974) Sex Role Inventory. Participants completed the Ethically Minded Consumer Scale (Riley et al. 2015), Brand Loyalty Scale (Candan et al., 2013), and Consumption Values Scale (Candan et al., 2013), and Personal Care Inventory created by the researchers. The personal care inventory asks whether participants deodorant, shampoo, shaving cream, soap brand, razor, and cologne or perfume they use as \ufffdfor men,\ufffd \ufffdfor women,\ufffd or \ufffdfor both genders\/neutral.\ufffd Data collection is complete. ANOVAs will be used to investigate differences in brand loyalty and consumption values by gender role identity (feminine, masculine, androgynous, undifferentiated). Chi-square tests will be used to investigate the relationship between gender role identity and categorical variables (which gender they believe their deodorant, razor, shampoo, shaving cream, soap brand, and cologne or perfume is marketed towards). All analyses may be repeated using gender as a variable (male, female, other) to compare with analyses by gender role identity. This exploratory research investigates the relationship between brand loyalty, consumption values, and gender role identity. The majority of research surrounding topics based on brand loyalty and consumption values focuses mainly on traditional gender dichotomy: males and females. There has been a recent push to reduce the focus on traditional male and female and instead focus on people and their gender role identity in order to investigate correlations between their gender role identity and other factors. To then be more inclusive and appeal to those who may be in the same gender but define themselves differently.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Deka<\/span>
\ndeka@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n
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Burley, Nylicia; Nyajuok, Khan; Mitchell, Latonya; Lizzy, Musilek; Rice, Katie; Wilson, Zareth<\/b>.\u00a0\ufffdYou Shall Not Pass!\ufffd: A Look into the Mind of Faculty Members\u00a0<\/i>.<\/dt>\n
Dr. Chance\ufffds Fall 2022 Research Team conducted a correlational study to examine how college and university faculty attitudes and perceptions about their students are influenced by potential substance use. While alcohol consumption is lawful, cannabis use is still taboo and controversial in some places. Therefore, it is important to understand the complex relationship between college faculty and their students and how the perception of substance use could affect that. This is especially important when evaluating if implicit biases can influence faculty behaviors. Interested to find out whether students\ufffd use of alcohol or cannabis would influence a faculty member\ufffds willingness to \ufffdgo the extra mile,\ufffd the team posed the following research question: What influence does college students\ufffd substance use have on the attitudes\/perceptions of faculty? Due to the scarcity of literature on this topic beyond deviant behavior (Jayaram & Caeiro, 2017, Jeyness, 2021), it was predicted that there would be no significant differences in faculty perceptions. Participants were recruited through social media to complete an online survey via Qualtrics. After consenting to participate, participants were randomly assigned to one of three narratives describing an academic scenario. Participants then completed questions assessing their likelihood to provide educational accommodations or be more lenient with the student. Demographic questions were the final section set of questions in the survey. The participants were also exposed to two randomly placed quality check questions to avoid non-human subjects and ensure participants were paying attention. Finally, the participants were debriefed and thanked for participating. A one-way independent ANOVA revealed no significant differences in leniency\/accommodation scores between the three conditions of alcohol (M = 21.65), cannabis (M = 22.06), and the control (M = 22.0), F(2, 142) = .267, p = .766. Therefore, as predicted, students\ufffd substance use did not influence faculty\ufffds perceptions, thus leading to imbalanced biases.
\nFaculty Sponsor: Nuchelle Chance<\/span>
\nnchance@missouriwestern.edu<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n

62 submissions listed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
BIOLOGY<\/td>\n20<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
BIOLOGY, OTHER<\/td>\n1<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
CHEMISTRY<\/td>\n4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
CHEMISTRY, SOCIAL SCIENCES & HUMANITIES<\/td>\n8<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
COMMUNICATIONS<\/td>\n12<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
COMMUNICATIONS, OTHER<\/td>\n1<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY<\/td>\n4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
NURSING<\/td>\n7<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
OTHER<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
PSYCHOLOGY<\/td>\n2<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
LITERATURE REVIEW<\/td>\n20<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
RESEARCH<\/td>\n37<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
SUMMARY OF AN INTERNSHIP OR PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE.<\/td>\n5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>