Second Annual
Interdisciplinary Research Day
December 4, 1997
St. Joseph, Missouri
SCHEDULE
Poster Session 12:30 – 4:00
MC214/216
Public Presentation
MC205 4:00 – 5:00
Brooke Sanger, Biology Alumna, Doctoral Candidate in Molecular Biology at UMKC. Will speak with Todd Eckdahl on “Was it Fashion or Folley that they Cloned Dolly?”
48 papers are scheduled for presentation, representing the departments of Biology, Communication Studies, Chemistry, Psychology, and Nursing. Interdisciplinary Research Day is made possible by a grant from the Missouri Western State College Foundation.
1997 MWSC Interdisciplinary Research Day
Scheduled Papers
ADAMS, LESLIE S. The Effects of Birth Order on Procrastination MWSC Psychology Department
This study investigates the effects of birth order on procrastination. Factors studied include the different characteristics of firstborn, middle born, last born, and only children. Firstborn and middle born children are more driven towards work and competition whereas lastborn children are more socially oriented and expect people to do things for them. These characteristics relate to whether a person will procrastinate more or less. Procrastination is when a person puts off the start of a task until they get stressed out about not doing the activity at an earlier time. In this study, Psychology 200 students filled out a survey that had questions relating to birth order and procrastination and I compared their answers with the characteristics of the different positions they were born in. It is predicted that middle born children will be least likely to procrastinate and last-born children will be more likely to procrastinate due to their different characteristics.
BARRON, CHRISTY Breast Cancer Awareness Among the Elderly MWSC Nursing Department
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, it is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, with the highest incidence in the over 60 yr. age group. The purpose of this program was to assess factors which impacted the compliance rate of the elderly in having screening mammograms on a regular basis. Methods used were to teach the importance of performing monthly self breast examinations and on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Results were 19 women interviewed, stated reasons for noncompliance were physicians not recommending mammograms for this age group, cost factors, and transportation difficulties.
BEACH, CHRISTINA L. Application Of Iron-Reducing Bacteria For In Situ Bioremediation MWSC Chemistry Department
Perchloroethylene, also known as PCE, is a highly toxic and cancer-causing solvent used in industry. Because of its wide usage, PCE contaminated sites are being seen more in the environment. This poster will show the research done on the formation of a reactive biobarrier for the purpose of dechlorination of PCE. The formation of the biobarrier is done using Shewanella alga BrY, an iron-reducing bacteria. To determine how effective the biobarrier will be, a small scale kinetics study was performed. Dechlorination is a two-step process. The first is the reduction of Iron(III) to Iron(II) using Shewanella in an anaerobic environment. The second step is the dechlorination of the solvent using the Iron(II). A successful iron-coating procedure yielded between six and eight milligrams of Iron(III) per one gram of sand. The rates of reactions of the iron reduction and dechlorination of PCE were studied and this information will allow for a more in depth study of the biofilm formation and examination of the reactions within the biofilm.
BOYLES, PHILIP Analysis of Feeding Patterns in Two Species of Crappie at Pony Express Lake. MWSC Biology Department
The food web ecology of crappie found in Pony Express Lake was studied to determine feeding patterns in relationship to growth. Two species of crappie, white crappie and black crappie, were collected by trap nets and electro-fishing techniques. The contents were identified to the lowest possible taxon, enumerated, and given a percent of the total gut content. Comparisons of the average stomach contents, average fish length, and the weight of identifiable food taxa were made between the two species of crappie. A correlation of fish length and stomach content weight was performed to determine any changes in feeding patterns with changes in body size.
BREJNIK, GINA Changing Bowel Habits in Nursing Home Residents MWSC Nursing Department
Constipation is a problem for patients, particularly in the elderly. The purpose of this study was to educate nursing home workers (n=11) on the causes of constipation, pro’s and con’s on enema and laxative use, as well as alternative treatments such as increase of fluids, fiber, activity and regular toileting. The method of teaching used included a lecture using handouts and poster representations of current studies on this issue. A pre-test and posttest was given to measure the amount of learning that occurred. There was an increase of knowledge as the average pretest score was 78.2% and the average posttest score was 84.5%, showing a 6.3% increase of knowledge. Further research is suggested on the implementation of bowel programs as well as education of nursing home employees.
BROKER, GRANT A. Crystal Engineering – Synthesis and Characterization of Porphrine Metal Complexes MWSC Chemistry Department
The exodentate multitopic ligand, 5,10,15,20-tetra(4-pyridyl)porphine (TPyP) has been used to construct porous 1D and 2D networks in its metal halide coordination complexes. The 1:2 coordination complexes of TPyP and HgX2, (X=I, Br), form porous 1D coordination polymers (cavity size, 2.5 x 7.7Å ). The shape and mode of aggregation of 1D polymers leads to the formation of 2D layers with a second type of cavity (cavity size, 2.4 x 3.0Å ). However, both the cavities in these complexes are capped by solvent molecules and form a bilayer architecture. Off-set stacking of 2D layers preclude the formation of continuous open channels. The inclusion of guest molecules in these complexes depends on the choice of the solvent and the method of crystallization. The 1:1 complexes of TPyP with PbI2 and CdI2, result in porous 2D networks with both the metals being octahedrally coordinated. The unit cell parameters and structural features of both these complexes are identical. These complexes form a bilayer structure with a column of solvated molecules and 2D networks being alternately stacked. Further, overlapping of 2D networks result in continuous open channels. Possible applications, of these crystal complexes, are selective filtration of radioactive metals out of nuclear waste or ground water in which the cavities and open channels are used to cage the metal. Another is for optical data storage.
COKER, AMY How Alcohol Consumption Effects Memory. MWSC Psychology Department
Alcohol has been shown to have an effect on memory. According to previous research alcohol will interfere directly with memory storage. Though this is agreed upon by many studies, there is a disagreement as to whether it alcohol consumption enhances or impairs memory. In this study I hope to find that alcohol consumption does have an effect on memory. Subjects were given a memory task after being introduced to three different conditions. The 20 subjects responses were measured, according to how many matches they got correct and how many incorrect, before consuming alcohol, after consuming two alcoholic beverages, and again after four alcoholic beverages. There was a specific time limit to how long they had to view and match cards involved in the memory task. Subjects were also given a questionnaire asking various demographic questions. The results were recorded and a one-way repeated measures ANOVA was done to analyze the data.
COOK, D.; BEAUMONT, P.; BURNS, N.; MEEKS, J.; PENN, D. Nursing Students’ Experiences and Perceptions of Community Health. MWSC Nursing Department
For nursing students, the first exposure to a given discipline may influence their ultimate career path, and the level of motivation and achievement that follows. So, it is important tounderstand the impressions of nursing students as they experience this first exposure. The following study was a secondary analysis of 83 journal entries from third semester BSN students in a community health nursing rotation. Three questions were addressed in this study: (1) What are the inner growths and revelations of nursing students through the community health rotation?; (2) How does a nursing student’s individual bias alter perception and perspectives of community health?; (3) Did nursing students find that theory based knowledge significantly enhance their experience? Using Miles and Huberman’s technique for data analysis, several patterns emerged. Highlights and excerpts of these entries are presented on a poster presentation.
DECKER, C. A Case Study on the Effects of Active Learning on Elementary Students’ Reading Comprehension . MWSC Education Department
This research study was designed to examine the effects of active learning on elementary students’ reading comprehension. It was hypothesized that for a basal reading story, reading comprehension test scores would be substantially higher when students were given the opportunity to actively respond to literature.
The study consisted of two groups of students, a control group and a treatment group. Over a two week study span, the groups read two stories from a basal reader. The treatment group was given opportunities to actively respond to the literature, while the control group engaged in more passive learning activities.
The results of this study revealed that those students receiving opportunities to actively respond to literature scored significantly higher on comprehension tests than those who did not. This study concluded that active learning does have a positive effect on elementary students’ reading comprehension.
DILLMAN, CASEY, BANKS, SHAWN M. Genetic Variation Within Three Possible Subspecies of Longear Sunfish (Lepomis megalotis) From Three Southern Missouri River Basins MWSC Biology Department
The longear sunfish (Lepomis megalotis) has a restrictive distribution to fresh waters of east-central North America. Throughout its biogeography, the longear has various forms or subspecies occurring regularly. It is currently thought that three of these subpecies (hypotis,nuchalis, and megalotis) inhabit separate and distinct river basins in southern Missouri. Criteria for classifying these fish as separate subspecies has solely been based on morphological variations. Our research has been focused on using PCR techniques to determine the degree of genetic variability of these fishes from three separate southern Missouri river basins (White, Gasconade, and Osage), each of which is suspected of containing one of the subspecies. Thirty representative longear sunfishes from each of the three basins were collected, fin-clipped for DNA source, and released for use in this study. Additional members of the sunfish family (Centrarchidae) were also sampled for use as outgroups. Thus far, by the use of 9 different randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) primers, three different scenarios have been encountered. Some primers show obvious differences between all individual centrarchids while others show similarities between all individual centrarchids. Still, other primers show that all individual longears from their respective population are the same and differ from longears of other populations. These primers are the most useful to distinguish phylogenetic differences between populations. Determining the amount of genotypic variation required to classify fish as different subspecies is currently a debated topic. It is our hope that this research will help shed light on such debates and serve as a model for studying the phylogeography of other species, particularily those that are endangered.
DROWNS, JOHN Implementing a Research-Based Pressure Ulcer Risk Assessment Scale in Clinical Practice MWSC Nursing Department
Research has shown that the prevalence of pressure ulcers decreases when the Braden Scale, a systematic pressure ulcer risk assessment scale, is used to identify clients at risk. The goal of this project is utilization of these research findings in a manner that promotes a change in nurses’ current knowledge, which may ultimately lead to a change in practice. The target group include nurses at a nursing home not using the Braden Scale. On 11/17 a questionnaire on current knowledge/practice will be completed by the nurses, followed by Braden scale research data, & a final questionnaire on nurses’ willingness to use the scale in practice. Data will be analyzed for overall change in knowledge of pressure ulcer risk assessment & willingness to use the research-based tool in practice.
DUNGY, AMANDA early ambulation after ptca MWSC Nursing Department
The purpose of the studies involved was to determine the amount of hours of bedrest needed following sheath removal after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). A quasi-experimental format was used for all three studies. two of the studies showed that six hours of bedrest was adequate to reduce both the risks of bleeding and hematoma formation fut also to reduce the risks of prolonged bedrest such as pneumonia and throm bophlebitis. The third study showed that just three hours of bed rest was adequate to reduce the chance of above mentioned risks. all three studies possess a high degree of internal and external validity and therefore could be generalized to the population of PTCA candidates.
ECKARD, ERIN Physiological, Behavioral and Ecological Components of Biological Timekeeping MWSC Psychology Department
The purpose of this presentation is to review the empirical studies concerned with the physiological, behavioral and ecological components of biological timekeeping. Of particular interest is how current research has validated the existence of a third eye in both vertebrate and invertebrate species. This review focuses on the location and physiology of the pacemakers involved in the control of such behaviors as migration and hibernation in nonhumans, as well as human conditions such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The presentation will focus on three areas: 1 experimentation concerned with neural structures and optic systems with respect to invertebrate biological rhythms; 2 pacemaker mechanisms identified in vertebrates, particulary neural connections between the retina and hypothalamus, i.e. the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus (SCN);and 3 the role of biological pacemakers in humans, especially conditions such as Seasonal Affective Disorder.
ELGIN, SARA L. State Anxiety in Women Basketball Players Prior to Competition MWSC Psychology Department
Anxiety is considered multidimensional because of its two subcomponents cognitive and somatic anxiety. Competitive state anxiety levels are influenced by many events prior to competition. The purpose of this study is to use the third version of the Mental Readiness Form (MRF-3) to examine the state anxiety levels of women basketball players prior to a scheduled competitive event. The time before competition and the experience level of a player seem to have an effect on the level of state anxiety that one experiences. This study is intended to look at each of these components with the use of the less intrusive, truly bipolar MRF-3. The results are expected to show that a freshman starter will experience higher anxiety levels than a sophomore, junior, or senior.
EVANS, SHERRY Visual Images Increase the Independent Functioning of the Alzheimer’s Patient in the Home MWSC Nursing Department
This is a Research proposal aimed at increasing the independence of Alzheimer’s patient’s in the performance of activities of daily living. The caregiving environment influences behavior, and nursing interventions reduce symptoms and preserve level of functioning more effectively. Under the maintenance model the emphasize is quality of life with the key to providing care being the ability to effectively adapt the environment. A proposed Quasi-experimental design is used to test the subjects increase in independence when a visual image is used. A convenient sample of 15 Alzheimer’s (Stage 1 or 2) Home Health patient’s. The two-step study to be conducted on each patient. Observation of the subjects to be recorded by the caregivers for one week without the use of visual images, followed by recording the second week with the use of visual images. The visual image displayed to be a picture of a toilet placed by the bathroom doorway.
FELLING, TIM Avian Diversity Differences Among Three Habitats at Pony Express Conservation Area MWSC Biology Department
A standard point count method of census was used to determine abundance and diversity patterns of birds during five time intervals from May 1- June 20, 1997. This time period primarily involves observations after the nesting safe date, therefore, it was assumes that the birds encountered were nesting and summer residents. Diversity comparisons were made for each time interval and for the total time period among three major habitats: early seral stage field, recently burned field, and forest edge. Particular interest was focused on habitat preference as well as intrahabitat and interhabitat movement of species.
FREEMAN, AMANDA Does the quality of relational culture between student an instructor in a nonnative English classroom predict rapidity and skill level of second language acquisition? MWSC Communication Studies Department
A literature review will be conducted to isolate teacher-student relational culture in the ESL classroom as a contributing variable to the nonnative English speaker’s speed and success in acquiring English as a second language. In this case differences in speed and success can mean anything as statistically minor as students reporting a more positive experience in a given class; because this study is the first, to the author’s knowledge, of its kind, such generality is acceptable. Teacher-student interaction is always a part of the learning process, but in the ESL classroom, the student is a) more vulnerable and b) learning a more “basic” skill than many adults do in school. This study, then would fall under the categories of both interpersonal communication and multicultural communication.
GASPER, BRYAN Using Riboprinting and RAPD PCR to Determine Relatedness in Bacteria MWSC Biology Department
DNA from four bacteria was isolated and amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine their relatedness. The RAPD primers used showed Proteus vulgaris and Staphylococcus epidermidis were the most similar. E. coli also shared bands with these two bacteria, however Bacillus subtilus shared the least number of bands with the other three bacteria. This data resulted in phylogenetic trees of relatedness. The riboprinting method yielded an amplified 16S rDNA gene which was then cut by restriction endonucleases. These endo-nucleases cut the gene in different locations. From these different size segments, the genotype was determined for the samples. Interpretation of this can yield an index formed in the same manner as the similarity index for RAPD primer products. PCR is a diverse tool which was tailored to fit this project by using RAPD primers and riboprinting. A tool such as this can be tailored to fit any genetic project to reveal answers to numerous questions.
GILKERSON, BECKY MWSC Department of Nursing
Many research studies have been done regarding alcohol and substance abuse problems on college campuses. This study looks at the problems and relationships between alcohol and drug abuse and violence, sexual assault and perceptions of harm on the MWSC campus. The C.O.R.E Institute (Long Form) survey, a survey used nationally at over 800 college campuses, will be taken by members of the resident student council. A group of about 50 students living on campus. This survey will assess the above relationships associated with alcohol and substance abuse problems. I hope to use the results to support the need for preventative education for these problems. The results are pending as the research has not yet been performed. This project is part of my senior nursing requirements for my Research and Leadership and Management classes.
GRAFFORD, DIANA L. The Correlation Between Extracurricular Activities MWSC Psychology Department
A wide body of research has examined how extracurricular activities effect self-esteem, and how self-esteem effects G.P.A. the previous researchers presented individuals with a self-esteem scale, scored the scale, and then used that data to compare to their involvement in sports, and they also used self-esteem scales to determine that a high sense of self-esteem correlates correlates strongly to a high G.P.A.. This study investigates the psychological effect of involvement in extracurricular activities on the level of self-esteem. The second variable I will be observing is the effect of high self-esteem on G.P.A.. I expect to find that there is a positive significance between extracurricular activities and self-esteem. I further expect to find a positive significance between self-esteem and G.P.A..
GRAY, TODD Effects of two different Burn Treatments on the Vegetation of a Successional Prairie Site After Five Years MWSC Biology Department
Based on pre treatment comparisons of species overlap and index of commonness values, the three sampling areas used in this study were considered to be similar. Treatments for each of the three vegetation sampling areas were 1. fall followed by a spring burn, 2. Two successive spring burns, and 3. a control area that that remained unburned. Although index of commonness values showed little bluestem, Andropogon scoparius, to be the major species in all three sampling areas before and after treatments, commonness results did over a five year period show some plant changes associated with ecological succession.
HILMES RONALD L. JR. The Effects of Endotracheal Suctioning with Normal Saline MWSC Nursing Department
Although the instillation of normal saline into the endotracheal tube prior to suctioning is common practice among critical care nurses, the data presented will sustain the concept that suctioning without normal saline has a decreased stress and hemodynamic effects on patients. Furthermore, the deletion of frequent normal saline usage among cardio-thoracic and noncardio-compromised patients has resulted in overall henodynamic improvements. The sample included; ten critically ill intubated patients, five post cardio-thoracic and five non cardio-compromised. The study was designed to determine the physiologic response, amount of material suction, and discomfront associatedwith the two different methods of endotracheal suctioning: Suctioning with and without normal saline. Each patient was suctioned 60 minutes apart. Assessment of gas exchanges, hemodynamics, and respitory effort were noted before and after each procedure. RESULTS: Noted changes in the heart rate, blood pressure, respitory rate, ABG values, and discomfront occurred immediately after the usage of both methods. There were no significant differences in the variables, except an increase discomfront noted among the cardio-thoracic patients. The instillation of normal saline did result in more secertions suctoned, but physical assessment of bilaterial breath sounds and oxygenation did not show any clinical improvement. Conclusions: Suctioning with normal saline vs. not suctioning with normal saline demostrated no significant changes among all types of intubated patients. Furthermore, saline instillation may enhance the amount of secetions returned, but failed to improve stasis significantly and caused more discomfront to the cardio-thoracic patient.
HOPKINS, ERIC The Removal of Heavy Metal Contamination from Wastewater Through the Use of Zeolites MWSC Chemistry Department
Zeolites are crystalline aluminosilicate materials utilized for ion exchange, filtration, detergent building, and many applications in our society. This paper will discuss a specific application of zeolites; the removal of cadmium contamination from wastewater. The crystalline structure of these compounds causes zeolites to have channels and pore openings of a specific size, which allow them to be utilized as selective molecular sieves. Molecules, ions, or atoms which can pass through the openings do so, while the larger molecules, ions, or atoms become “trapped” in the crystal lattice. In some cases, sodium, potassium, or other ions contained in “virgin” zeolites are exchanged for others, which liberate the sodium, potassium, or other ions from the crystal structure. Atomic absorption and atomic emission analyses were performed on wastewater solutions to determine cadmium and sodium concentrations, which will demonstrate the “cadmium / sodium ion exchange” capability for each of four zeolites. AA/AE analysis allows for determinations of cadmium in water solution to be made at levels of one-tenth a part per million, and sodium levels in the one-hundredth part per million range. The rate at which these processes take place was also studied. The four different zeolites were placed in contact with a standardized cadmium solution for different periods of time, at which time the concentration of cadmium and sodium in each was determined through AA/AE analysis.
JOHNSON, MARTHA Cigarette Smoking a High Risk for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease MWSC Nursing Department
Cigarette smoking has been implicated as a risk factor for ectopic pregnancy and tubal infertility. One way which may affect both outcomes is by increasing women’s risks for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease resulting in scarring and obstruction of fallopian tubes. This study shows a risk of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease for smokers by using statistical data with credible authors. Questionnaires have been mailed to local family physicians, nurse practitioners, obstetricians, and gynecologists. Results of this study are pending completion and returning of questionnaires by participating physicians.
JOHNSON, MICHAEL C. Anchoring Effects on Final Grades MWSC Psychology Department
This paper about Anchoring Effects. Anchoring Effects are a Self-Developed goal that may inhibit or inhance performance. Allthough, not much interest has been raised about this subject, I have chosen it as my research interest. I hope to find that the first test score in a semester may act as an anchor for the rest of the semester. If so, perhaps we can better learn some of its hidden potential.
KARN, ELIZABETH Management of Depression in SCI MWSC Nursing Department
Depression has been widely studied among persons with spinal cord injury. One study concluded a relationship between pain and depression develop over time. Reducing pain will have a greater impact on reducing depression than reduced depression will have on pain. Research on pain management is proposed for the effect of pain management on depression. Treatment of SCIs has been restricted to prevent further injury to the spinal cord. Two drugs have been investigated which have been reported to enhance neurologic recovery of motor function. Methylprednisolon is a steroid administered at very high levels and GM-1 is a complex glycolipid found at high levels in cell membranes in the nervous system with known neuroprotective and neurofunctional restoration protential. A proposal for research on management of depression through management of pain in SCI is suggested.
KING, DARLENE Significance of Educational Levels Related To Ethical Decision Making in Nursing. MWSC Nursing Department
The purpose of this study was to determine if a nurse’s level of education influences the application of ethical principles in decision-making. This study was designed to explore the possible relationship of the nurse’s ethical decision-making and other influencing factors; such as age, gender, work experience, practice setting and location of practice. A random sample (n=500) of Missouri registered nurses were used in the study. Each subject completed a demographic questionnaire and the Judgments About Nursing Decisions(Ketefian, 1981), an objective instrument developed to study ethical decision-making of nurses in professional situations. The study contained six to seven potential nursing actions that could occur in each situation. The subjects were asked to predict what the hypothetical nurse in the scenario should do, and then predict what this hypothetical nurse would actually do. Nurses (n=137)on this measurement were scored by an analysis of variance (ANOVA)and showed no significant difference between educational levels and ethical decision-making, or other related factors. The paired sample T-Test revealed a significant difference (.0001) about the component of what nurses hypothetically should do and what is realistically done.
MICHALSKI, RICHARD; WILSON, ANGELA; YOST, MICHELLE; JOHNSON, KATHRYN; MAJOR, KRISTIN; MULLER, NICHOLAS Relationship Between Perceived Health Status And Lifestyle Behaviors. MWSC Nursing Department
Health maintenance and illness prevention have become major concerns in health care in recent years. Becoming aware of what affects the perception of health status is important in preventing illness. The purpose of this health status and three measures of lifestyle behaviors: total body fat percentage, perceived weight, and cholesterol levels. The relationship was studied for both males and females(N=201,51.8%female,48.2% male). Using the Health Belief Model, a secondary analysis of unpublished raw data collected at a wellness screening for faculty and staff at a small midwestern state college was performed. The unit of analysis was the individual participant. Multiple regression was used to evaluate variables on the criterion variable, perceived health status. In summary, the data indicated that 14% of the variance for perception of health status could be explained for male subjects with total body fat percentage, perceived weight, and cholesterol levels. The significant unique predictors were cholesterol and body fat percentage. There was no significant relationship between female subjects’perceptions of health status and predictor variables. These predictor variables are modifiable variables that, with proper education and intervention, could be altered leading to a more positive perception of health status.
MILLER, CYNTHIA A The Synthesis And Characterization Of A Bimetallic Hydroformylation Catalyst MWSC Chemistry Department
The purpose of this research was to develop a bimetallic hydroformylation catalyst that has high selectivity and efficiency, while being environmentally friendly. The multiple step synthesis of the bimetallic hydroformylation catalyst, rac-[Rh2(nbd)2(et,ph-P4)]+2, were done by the use of a dry box, trap to trap, and column distillation. The characterization of the bimetallic catalyst was accomplished by the use of FT-IR, a 250 MHz NMR, and a 500 MHz NMR capable of variable temperatures and high pressure. The FT-IR and NMR spectra were used to develop the mechanism for the hydroformylation of the bimetallic catalyst. The variable temperature NMR spectra were used to study the effects that temperature has on the stability of the catalyst and at what temperatures the catalyst is inhibited or enhanced. Researchers work hard to find faster and more selective catalyst, which are environmentally friendly.
MILLER, KATHY L. Effects of caffiene during pregnancy MWSC Nursing Department
This is a research utilization project in which I focused on the subject of caffeine use and it’s effect during pregnacy. I utilized this information by talking about caffiene to a group of newly pregnant mothers at a nurse midwife practice. This group was very easy to approach and were motivated to learn the information for the health and well being of their unborn babies.
MILLER, REBECCA A. Utilization of Nursing Research MWSC Nursing Department
As we are fast approaching another century, Nursing and other medical disciplines are changing rapidly. Nursing research will be very important to our present, as well as, our future practice. My project involved passive education of staff nurses concerning new research done in pain management; to improve the care of patients with pain problems. My project involved three basic steps. Step I: A descriptive study to determine if the nurses involved would be open to such information. Step II: Articles were selected and made available for the staff nurses to read. Step III: evaluation of the above project with questionnaire and interview.
NUNN, MICHELLE D Do Post-Care Telephone Follow-up Calls Make a Difference? MWSC Nursing Department
This proposed study will examine the differences that telephone follow-up calls make for patients who have been discharged from psychiatric care and who have not been re-admitted for at least foutreen days. I will examine patient’s feelings about their health care status and their therapy opportunities, their adherence to medication regimens, and their perceived stressors. Demographic variables will be included as control variables to ascertain that a control group of patients who do not receive telephone follow-up calls on a regular basis are not significantly different than the sample group of patients, and to ascertain whether there is a significant positive correlation betwwen any of the demographic variables and the dependent variables. Budget estimates for the study include the costs of the materials and staff time to implement the study, and estimated savings that decrease re-admittance rates and cost-effective after-care provide for the primary care facility.
PENINGTON, TERRI, HILEY, SHAUNA, AND BOWMAN-JAMES, KRISTIN Redox Switching for Oxo-Anion Complexation by Polyammonium Macrocycles MWSC Chemistry Department
Polyammonium macrocycles have been shown by the Bowman-James group at KU to selectivity complex with certain environmentally and biologically significant anions such as nitrate. The application of this phenomenon toward the development of an anion sensor is currently under investigation by that group. The incorporation of switching mechanisms for control over the anion binding and functionalization of molecules to allow monolayer contruction are long term goals of the project. One specific aspect being explored is the use of redox switching groups to control the oxo-anion binding by the macrocycle. Simple macrocycles have been derivatized with the quinone moieties in order to electrochemically induce charge competition with complexed anions and control binding. These derivatives have been preliminarily examined with cyclic voltammetry in aqueous and nonaqueous solution.
POIRIER, DENEE Circumcision Pain MWSC Nursing Department
Circumcision is a common neonatal procedure routinely performed without the use of anesthesia. The purpose of this research utilization project was to encourage the doctors at a local hospital to begin to use anesthesia for their patients undergoing this procedure. Fifteen local doctors who routinely perform circumcisions were sent a summary sheet of research on the effectiveness of topical anesthesia for circumcision pain. These doctors also received a questionnaire regarding use of anesthesia, their feelings about neonatal pain and whether or not the research would change their anesthetic use. Many of the doctors who replied acknowledged the fact that neonates do feel pain however, very few indicated that they would change the fact that they do not offer any kind of anesthetic for these children.
REMMERS, JOAN AND WILMORE, CASEY The Relationship Between Health Behaviors of College Students and Their Success in School MWSC Nursing Department
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the health behaviors of college students and their success in school. The sample consisted of students who voluntarily participated in a campus health fair and screening. Participants (N=136) were asked to complete a questionnaire concerning their behaviors related to frequency of eating breakfast and snacks, type and frequency of exercise, frequency and amount of alcohol and caffeine intake, amount of sleep, smoking status and overall life satisfacfion. Success in school was defined by students’ current grades in college courses and their satisfaction with grades, relationships with instructors and social activities. The research hypothesis that there would be a positive relationship between health behaviors and success in school was not supported. Subjects who were married or single had significantly higher wellness scores than those who were divorced. Age and wellness scores were found to have a weak negative relationship. The results of this study will assist in the planning of future health screenings for this population.
RIEGEL , JILL S. Labeling: How Do College Students Perceive It? MWSC Psychology Department
Labeling theory, also known as the Interactionist Perspective, deals with the concept of labeling. The word labeling by definition deals with both negative and positive connotations placed on people. This study looks at the perception of labeling among college students by using five vignette scenarios. The results are expected to show that college students perceive people either positively or negatively depending upon the labels that are placed on them.
RITTMAN, ANDREA L. Psychological Factors Predicting Academic Achievement and Retention of First Year College Students MWSC Psychology Department
Studies on motivational and well-being measures are becoming popular because of their effect on everyday life. The purpose of this study was to look at well-being factors like self-esteem and optimism in MWSC first-year students. Data from 895 subjects was collected during summer registration/orientation programs. Significant differences were found between the Access Plus group and other students on measures of need for achievement and fear of success. Future research includes correlating such scores with academic performance to predict retention.
ROBINSON, LINDA Music therapy: Effects of relaxing music during meals with cognitively impaired adults in nursing homes MWSC Nursing Department
This research was based on several studies using music therapy as a tool for reducing agitation during dinner for the clients of the nursing home. These studies showed an improvement in clients feeding themselves more, spending more time over dinner, and being able to eat more calmly. Music as a nursing tool is an intervention that is relatively easy to implement and worth trying. Overall benefits would be a reduction in stress for both the clients and, therefore, the staff, an increase in the nutritional aspects for the clients, thus reducing the risks of some physical problems and/or illnesses. Future studies are recommended to further evaluate this as a valuable tool.
ROOKS, LYNNA M. Alcohol Consumption on Missouri Western State College’s Campus and Involvement in Social Organizations MWSC Psychology Department
Alcohol use on and abuse on college campuses has been a growing concern for researchers and clinicians for many years now. Several researchers have begun examining relationships among student’ drinking patterns and problems consequent to alcohol use. This study measured drinking attitudes of 200 Missouri Western State College’s students using the College and Drinking Attitude Scale (Gonzalez,1990)as the measuring device and examined the relationship between alcohol attitudes and student’s involvement in various social organizations found on campus. Results indicated that the more social organizations a student is involved in, the less responsible their attitudes toward alcohol use were. Results also indicated that members of fraternities and sororities were much more likely to have a higher level of irresponsible attitudes toward the use of alcohol than nonmembers. Further research is necessary to determine other factors related to college students’ drinking practices.
ROSEBERRY, AMY The Accuracy and Reliability of Tympanic Thermometers MWSC Nursing Department
Research suggests there are correlations and differences between tympanic and rectal, oral, and core temperature readings. Differances and inaccuracies in thermometer readings may be clinically significant and could affect the coarse of treatment and outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of tympanic thermometers used with pediatric and adult patients. Research suggests that tympanic thermometers may be more accurate than traditional thermometers if used correctly and in patients older than three years of age. My study focuses on the problems encountered by nurses regarding temperature taking and steps needed to minimize errors. Information will be provided to health care employees of a home health agency and a pre- and post-test will be used to measure and evaluate knowledge learned. Research for this project is still in progress.
ROSELLI, BRAD A.J. Memory Comprehension MWSC Psychology Department
A wide body of research has examined what the capacity of short term memory is. It has also looked at the speed of what is being presented. It has been found that being shown a fast task improves the response. This study investigates how well people do at a memory task using a flash test. Each time they get a pattern right one more flash is added. The subjects will be split into two groups. Subjects in group 1 will be shown the task three times fast and one time slow. Subjects in group 2 will be shown the task three times slow and one time fast. I expect to find that people in group 1 will do poorly on the slow task after getting used to the fast task. I also expect to find that people in group 2 will do poorly on the fast task after getting used to the slow task.
ROSELLI, BRAD A.J. Seasonal Affective Disorder MWSC Psychology Department
A wide body of research has examined how the pineal gland is responsible for the mood changes from season to season. The literature has stated that people tend to be depressed more in the winter and summer. There are many different reasons for this like the difference in lighting and the physiology of the person. There is a lot of research on a new therapy for this disorder. The most common therapy is called Phototherapy. People are subjected to different light patterns at different times. The research also deals with the evolution of the study of SAD as a disorder. It has only been in the past fifteen to twenty years that people have been looking at SAD as a disorder.
SCHUETTPELZ, KITTY J. Menopause and Mental Health: a Literature Review MWSC Psychology Department
This article reviews literature pertaining to the effect of menopause on Western women’s mental health. There is debate between competing models of menopause: (a) the biomedical, (b) the psychosocial, (c) the sociocultural, and (d) the feminist. The popular and historical view of menopause has been negative. Scientific literature has contributed to the stereotype of the physically deteriorating, mentally unstable, socially anachronistic, irrelevant older woman. More recent scholarly writing is revising this notion. This review found that during premenopauseal years there may be a slight increase in psychological distress, but generally middle-aged women consider menopause a relatively benign event, and postmenopausal women experience increased levels of mental health.
SCHWANT, AMY social support in the critically ill MWSC Nursing Department
The importance of social support in the maintenance of health and during illness has been recognized by multiple authors. Research studies investigated what critically ill adults described as supportive behaviors, as well as the source of those behaviors to increase understanding of social support from the viewpoint of the critically ill adults. The information from the studies was presented to critical care nurses at a local hospital. Pre and post tests were administered to the nurses before and after the presentation to assess the knowledge gained. Overall results showed only a two percent increase in post test scores. Discussion: results are insignificant due to the small sample size and a couple of unclear questions on the test.
THOMAS, JASON H Determination of the Effect of an Acid Media on Creatine Monohydrate MWSC Chemistry Department
Creatine Monohydrate, a supplement used in bodybuilding and weightlifting, is thought to degrade to its waste, creatinine, in acid. The degradation in acid is a problem, because creatine is commonly taken with grape juice. The experiment was done to determine to what degree, if at all, creatine degrades to creatinine. A 500-megahertz Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometer (NMR) was used to make the determination. Creatine and creatinine have methyl and methylene peaks that show up on the NMR spectra. The methyl peaks are superimposed for both compounds, but the methylene peaks are separated by approximately 0.1 parts per million (ppm). The methylene peaks were used to show that the peak areas decreased in approximately the same ratios as the ratios of creatine to creatinine decreased. This information showed that if creatine did degrade to creatinine, the NMR can distinguish between the methylene peaks of the two compounds. The most noticeable result was that after being in contact with an acidic solution for 20 hours, creatine did not degrade.
WEITLICH, HEIDI The effect of passive smoking on the birthweight of babies. MWSC Nursing Department
The effect of passive smoking in the home on birthweight of newborns whose mothers did not smoke is a decrease in weight. We already know mother’s who smoke have a significant decrease in newborn’s weight. The research I have been studying has shown a 45-108 gram deficit in the fetus exposed to passive smoking compared to healthy average weight newborns. The studies show the more of an increase exposure to the number of cigarettes the more of a decrease in birthweight there is. Studies show that there is a higher rate of infant mortality the more of a decrease in weight there is. I used this research to teach a prenatal class for research utilization.
WHEELER, ANDREA C. Competition Among College Students MWSC Psychology Department
Competition is a high motivator among college students, and of course this will have some effect on the way that they study or act. Students who are more competitive tend to have been more involved in activities on campus and off. This study investigates the effects that competitiveness and involvement of college students has on their grades. College students were given a survey and asked to rank how competitive and involved they are. I expect to find that students who are competitive and are involved in a lot of activities will have an above average Grade Point Average (G.P.A.), and students who are not very competitive and are highly involved in activities will have an average G.P.A. Students, who are highly competitive, yet are not involved in a lot of activities will have an average G.P.A. Finally, students who are not very competitive and are not involved in a lot of activities will have a below average G.P.A.
WRIGHT, DEANNA Change in Knowledge in Female Undergraduates Following a Sexual Health Workshop MWSC Nursing Department
Thirty female undergraduate students from a small midwestern college completed a 23 item questionairre prior to and immediately following an informal 90 minute sexual health workshop. The results indicated that improvement in the subjects’ mean total scores were correlated with completion of the sexual health workshop. The findings suggest that this workshop could be used as a model for assisting female students at the college to accumulate a knowledge base about sexual health.
YOUNG, TIFFANY A. Children’s Study Habits And Parental Involvement MWSC Psychology Department
Children’s study habits have been related to parental involvement for many years. Parental involvement includes many different situational factors, such as, how much time a parent studies with their child, how much time a parent allows a child to watch television, and if the parents smoke. In this study fourth grade children were given a survey about different situational factors in relationship to their parents. The demographic information that was included was their age and gender. There should be a significant difference found to situational factors parents participate in, to the study habits a child retains.