Department of Chemistry
Research
Biggs, Todd; Svojanovsky, Stan Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Neural Networks application to predict active motif candidates recognized by SRp40 protein
Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are mathematical models designed to mimic a small fraction of the data processing system of the human brain. This creates an Artificial Intelligence (AI). All neurons (nodes in ANNs) form connections and complex interactions with other nodes while transmitting, receiving, and processing information. This ANN model provides a helpful tool for handling the significant overlap between active and inactive sequences. In this project we used a back-propagation neural network (BPNN) as a part of the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) computational model. It is designed to predict the activity of short oligonucleotide sequences acting as exon splicing enhancers (ESE) motifs recognized by the SR protein found in humans, SRp40. All active (36) sequences were obtained from the literature. Using Chargaff’s rule, all inactive complementary sequences were then generated. A subset of 26 active and 26 non-active sequences facilitated training and validation procedure of out BPNN model. The remaining subset of 20 sequences (10 active +10 non-active) were used in the testing process. Using a systematic optimization approach, we were able to make optimal predictions for tested sequences seeking the minimal outcome errors. However, further optimization steps might result in more accurate predictions of active SRp40 motif candidates.
Dr. Stan Svojanovsky
Department of Communication
Research
Sullivan, Tailyn; Sweiger, Kolby; Krogh, Logan; Crooks, Ethan Usability of Lego Instructions
This report details a test of the usability of Lego set instructions. Usability is a key factor in product design. The Interaction Design Foundation defines usability as “a measure of how well a specific user in a specific context can use a product/design to achieve a defined goal.” Essentially, our team is evaluating Lego’s included instructions by testing them with multiple participants. In our research, we measured any mistakes or start-overs that were made. Each participant was able to go at their own pace without a time limit. To gain feedback, we urged our participants to use the think-aloud protocol. This protocol asks participants to talk about what they’re thinking and feeling while they are following the instructions. After the test, we held a post-interview with each participant, with questions about their thought process and how usable the instructions were for them.
Dr. Kaye Adkins
tsullivan4@missouriwestern.edu
Foster, Rhett; Fields, Taye; Sampson, Haley; Mironov, Sergei; Eddins, Kylie Paper Airplane Usability Project
Usability is the process of understanding how something is used or done. Instructions make usability an almost seamless process in our society today. The Usability project presented by our group (Rhett Foster, Kylie Eddins, Taye Fields, Sergey Mironov, Haley Sampson) has shown us how important using simple instructions can make a task much easier. Our test involved users making paper airplanes using a thorough set of instructions on Wiki How. Creating a paper airplane can be very easy if you know what you are doing, but just giving a piece of paper to someone who is clueless on how the process works is a much harder task. During our test we first asked the users in advance if they had ever made a paper airplane before, showing prior knowledge of the subject. During each test session we tested the time it took for each user and the mistakes they made during the process. We gathered information on the users hearing their thoughts and asking them questions about the final product.
Dr. Kaye Adkins
Yancey, Keegan; Miller, Kaylee; Dirck, Kyle; Gonzalez, Ricardo Usability of Chopsticks
Usability and User Experience involves the testing and evaluation of instructions for any given user. Usability is an essential component of product development and their instructions. We, as a group, chose to use the set of instructions on the package of generic chopsticks. The tests that we will be conducting will include stacking 3 separate rows of 3 Froot Loops and evaluate how many times they need to start over, as well as the time it takes to complete the task. Our participants will be told they should say what they are thinking out loud, which is explained as the Think Aloud Protocol. After the test the participants will be asked the interview questions we have scripted beforehand and their responses will be recorded for evaluation.
Dr. Kaye Adkins
Literature review
Trenton, Henderson What are the Benefits of Origami
This is a literature review, answering the question, “What are the benefits of Origami.” Origami has many benefits that can be gained from learning and doing Origami. Some of these benefits include focus, relaxation, and early childhood development.
Dr. Kaye Adkins
thenderson14@missouriwestern.edu
Palmgren, Lilly Maui Fires: The History and Culture
The post is about the Maui fires and how the history, culture, and communities were all affected. With more specific details shared in face-to-face conversation.
Dr. Stacia Bensyl
Sheehan, Nathan Maui and Lahaina Fire Inflaming The Mind
On August 8, 2023, Hawaii faced a deadly wildfire within Maui. Concerns for people’s well-being spread, but we are unsure of the long-term implications on individuals’ response to the fire. A crucial part of the recovery process is considering the impact on everyone’s mental health. Many contributing factors such as missing people, missing belongings, and poor conditions influence increased stress. Mental health surveys after natural disasters suggest drops in the overall mental health score and delayed traumatic responses that could be worrisome for those who may seem fine in the Maui fire. With the lost people and the loss of belongings, the people of Maui are facing a mental crisis. An approach that could benefit the recovery process is comparing the recovery process from other natural disasters to see what needs to be taken into consideration. In the Haiti earthquake voodoo was applied to healthcare interventions to gain cultural and public acceptance that allowed for a smoother recovery process. Other natural disasters could also show us how people react when having distrust among their community as shown in the Michigan lead water crisis. This Evidence would suggest that a cultural approach to the recovery process would allow the people of Maui to experience an improved connection with the community that could provide the support they need for declining mental health. Maui has begun a similar approach by sending spiritual teams and organizations with the goal of uniting the people.
Dr. Stacia Bensyl
Craig School of Business
Research
Walker, Nathan Nathan’s Chicken Egg’s Company
in a world of eggs that are cage up, abusive and downright cruel to chickens we need more business that are more ethical and sell natural goods to consumers. Selling all sizes of eggs from small to extra-large to my consumers. I would use a 2017 Mitsubishi Fuso FEC92S DUOMIC 4×2 COE Reefer Refrigerated Truck to transport my products safely and efficiently to my consumers. In the next few years, I’ll create a business the uses forecasting, routing preparation and vehicle capacity to make my business as efficient as possible to produce natural, cage-free eggs to retailers across St. Joseph at an affordable cost to retailers.
Dr. Amit Verma
Jones, Allison Local Apple Co
Our B2B apple delivery service is tailored to seamlessly supply grocery stores in St. Joseph and the surrounding areas with the freshest apples. We offer a diverse selection of apple varieties, including Granny Smith, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Pink Lady, Honey-crisp, and Fuji apples, catering to a wide range of customer preferences. Our service is deeply rooted in ensuring that the apples arrive in optimal condition, preserving their natural flavors and nutritional value. We employ a streamlined transportation approach, utilizing a single meticulously maintained truck to ensure the most efficient delivery of fresh apples to grocery stores throughout the St. Joseph area. This focused approach minimizes our environmental footprint while maximizing the cost-effectiveness of our service. In addition to prompt delivery, we offer optional washing and packaging services to enhance the presentation and extend the shelf life of the apples. We recognize the varying needs of businesses in the region and offer flexible lead times. Opt for our comprehensive service package, including washing and packaging, for a 5-day lead time, enabling meticulous preparation to meet high-quality standards. Alternatively, businesses looking for quicker turnaround times can choose the 2-day lead time option, focusing solely on prompt apple delivery without additional services. Our B2B apple delivery service is designed to ensure that businesses in the area have access to top-quality apples while providing a dependable supply chain.
Dr. Amit Verma
Kilgore, Ethan TopLine Performance Footwear
Launching a new business necessitates careful consideration of various factors that shape the structure and functionality of daily operations. Excel emerges as a powerful tool to guide entrepreneurs in making informed decisions. Embedded within Excel are specialized software solutions that provide real-time location data, numerical insights, and visualizations powered by a custom Bing Maps Key. By simply inputting relevant data, Excel generates comprehensive analyses that enable intelligent, data-driven decisions. This project delves into the practical applications of these Excel software solutions, demonstrating their utility in addressing critical operational aspects such as facility location selection, vehicle routing optimization, and container loading strategies. The scenario revolves around a shoe company that distributes its products to clothing and sporting goods stores across St. Joseph, Missouri. The Facility Location Solver identifies the most efficient location among three potential options, along with the optimal delivery routes originating from that preferred location provided by the Vehicle Routing Solver. Leveraging the determined delivery routes, the tool further facilitates the determination of the most efficient number of shipping trucks required. Since the shoe boxes come in varying sizes, the Container Loading Solver proves invaluable in optimizing the loading of shipping containers with different-sized boxes, maximizing space utilization and minimizing shipping costs.
Dr. Amit Verma
Kneib, Joe Create Your Own Business – Robidoux Brew
This is a “create your own business” project. My business idea is for a brewery that would be located and operate out of the St. Joseph area. It would deliver beer to bars and restaurants in the region, catering to the growing demand for craft beer. A customer base will be established by meticulously identifying and engaging with potential customers in the area. Additionally, the brewery will investigate the most suitable vehicle options for facilitating deliveries, considering factors such as load capacity, fuel efficiency, and environmental impact. An average order quantity analysis will be conducted to optimize inventory management and ensure efficient delivery planning.
Dr. Amit Verma
Kuhn, Kauy; Andersen, Brenden; Katelyn, Henderson; Taylor, Timothy Leadership
An organization’s ability to pursue its values, vision, and goals is directly dictated by the leadership from within. Employees who make the company functional are guided and influenced by their direct superiors who are tasked with taking the company forward. When this leadership is effective and efficient, the vision of the organization is relentlessly pursued. However, failed leadership causes a drastic dismantle of the vision effectively sinking the corporation. To pursue quality leadership within organizations, researchers have undertaken continuous studies with the goal of improving leaders. This has led to a multitude of leadership models and strategies to provide guidance to organizational leaders. Leadership is a complex idea with multiple branches for different situations without one true solution. Due to this, leadership is individualized with the common goal of improvement. While there may not be a singular solution, the literature shares multiple strategies and ideas for effective leadership. An effective leadership style is a collaborative model where different authority-level leaders work together to solve common problems ultimately leading to conjoined solutions. Further, leadership often needs to be reassessed, especially within the evolving work environment of remote working due to events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Even more, the personality types of leaders and employees alike need to be addressed. Individualized leadership models must be implemented to reach the furthest within an organization to provide quality throughout. Finally, burnout due to exhaustion and stress is a prevalent state that with the right leadership and steps, can be nearly eliminated. Ultimately, leadership styles will vary from organization to organization and person to person. One thing is clear, leadership is necessary to implement a vision while upholding the values of an organization.
Dr. Cheryl McIntosh
Green, Jessica; Bristol, Taylor; Streeter, Dakari; Robinson, Amani Organizational Culture
Organizational culture profoundly shapes a company’s identity and employee behavior. The rise of remote and hybrid work has prompted organizations to reassess and adapt their cultures for success in the dynamic virtual work landscape. Remote work has challenged traditional notions of organizational culture by introducing new dynamics and modes of communication. The absence of physical proximity has necessitated a redefinition of collaboration, with virtual tools and platforms becoming the lifelines of connectivity. Organizations fostering a remote work culture emphasize trust, autonomy, and effective communication as essential pillars. The challenge lies in maintaining a sense of belonging and shared values when employees are dispersed geographically. Hybrid work models, blending remote and in-office work, have emerged as a compromise that offers flexibility while preserving some elements of the traditional office environment. This introduces a nuanced layer to organizational culture, where adaptability and inclusivity become paramount. Successful organizations in this context prioritize creating a cohesive culture that accommodates both in-person and virtual interactions. They recognize the importance of shared experiences and rituals, whether physical or digital, to foster a sense of community. Adapting organizational culture to remote and hybrid work environments requires intentional efforts. Leaders must cultivate a culture of flexibility, open communication, and empathy. The emphasis on results and outcomes becomes more pronounced, shifting the focus from physical presence to productivity. Organizations must continually adapt cultural strategies to meet evolving workforce expectations and needs. In conclusion, organizational culture is a dynamic force that evolves in response to the shifting paradigms of work. Embracing remote and hybrid work models necessitates a cultural transformation, emphasizing values, adaptability, and connectivity to ensure that organizations thrive in the ever-changing world of work.
Dr. Cheryl McIntosh
Updike, Alex Lumber Link
Our recently established lumber supply company, Lumber Link, provides lumber distribution services to home improvement retailers, contractors, and construction companies in the St. Joseph, Missouri metropolitan area. We offer a wide selection of high-quality lumber in sizes ranging from 48 inch spindles to 40 foot trusses to meet all construction and renovation needs. Our location in St. Joseph allows us to easily access major regional lumber suppliers and distribution routes. Using advanced analytics and optimization techniques, including the Facility Location solver, we strategically position our warehouse to minimize transportation costs. The Vehicle Routing solver enables us to plan the most efficient delivery routes to customers. By loading trucks optimally using the Container Loading solver, we maximize each vehicle’s capacity and minimize the number of trips required. We determine optimal inventory levels by analyzing population, construction activity, and seasonal demand fluctuations in the region. Competitive pricing research informs our pricing strategy. Together, these approaches enable us to efficiently manage inventory and meet customer demand.
Dr. Amit Verma
Kaufman, Robert; Baird, Micah; Mesenbrink, Ethan; Williams, Evan; Van Der Westhuizen, Sherine How the Pandemic Influenced Decision Making About Personal Health and What Managers Should Do About it
The changes in external circumstances posed by the COVID-19 pandemic presented those who were healthy with adversity. The strict measures created an environment where personal decision making carried more weight than usual (Soysal, Ayşe Nur Oymak, 2023). We explored how the public’s decision making affected personal health during this time which painted a picture of how the human population responded to the adversity posed by the pandemic. The reviewed literature found that the quality of human health decreased during the pandemic (Molarius, A., & Persson, C. 2022). We must be able to decipher between the impact of the strict measures themselves on human health and the impact of personal health decisions within these parameters. The challenges posed by lockdowns did negatively impact our personal health, but the decisions that many people made during this time worsened their condition as they resorted to temporary coping mechanisms.
Dr. Cheryl McIntosh
Department of Biology
Research
Myers, David; Yoder, Christina; Maddex, Maleah Migration of Caribou
We decided to look at the migration of caribou in Alaska and Canada. Caribou are interesting mammals that have a particular migration route. In the northern part of North America, caribou roam the tundra. Within the migration route, caribou stay in herds of thousands, with newborns, juveniles, breeding males, and breeding females. We are looking at the migration route itself, the effects of the route, the length of the route, and when caribou have evolved to migrate.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
Sears, Jaeden Central Grasslands Research Extension Center Bee Ecology
This presentation is about the bee ecology in North Dakota and how it can be affected by new agriculture tactics. I have been in ND prairies conducting density and distribution surveys on bees to see how they might have been affected by things such as prescribed burning and cattle grazing. We also did studies on things such as forensic entomology and soybean yield due to bee pollination. I would like to present the information in order to communicate with people interested in ecology.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
Firsching, Macioe; Blake, Kiyah; Morrison, Lillian; Teachout, Caleb Effects on Social Isolation on Mice Thyroid Hormone Levels and Brain Mass
During the Covid-19 Pandemic, chronic stress caused by social isolation and its effects on human physical health has become a relevant topic. An aspect stress is known to affect the production of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones are vital as they regulate metabolism, growth, development, and other bodily functions. Notably, thyroid hormones have been shown to be crucial in brain development. We investigated the effects of social isolation-induced stress on (1) thyroid hormone levels, and (2) brain development in terms of brain mass of the social animal mice.
Dr. Kristen Walton
mfirsching@missouriwestern.edu
Firsching, Macioe Invasive and Native Millipedes in the United States Prefer Familiar Decaying Wood to Novel Fish Flakes
Millipedes are vital detritivores that consume 10–15% of the annual leaf fall in temperate forest. Understanding the food preference of millipedes help us gain greater insight into their impact on the environment and also help conservation of endangered millipede species and the management of invasive species. In this research, I investigated whether the juveniles of the invasive Bumblebee Millipede (Anadenobolus monilicornis) and the native American Giant Millipede (Narceus americanus) differed in their food preferences between a familiar (decaying wood) and a novel (fish flake) food source.
Dr. Julie Jedlicka
mfirsching@missouriwestern.edu
Weber, Sonja; Larison, Teri; Burroughs, Nora; Frye, Rene; Menne, Colleen; Barta, Csengele Prairie species’ vulnerability to biological invasions: velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) suppresses big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) growth and development
As a 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. Big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) is a warm season perennial species, a native grass dominating tallgrass prairies of Central North America. Our work focused on better understanding the vulnerability of this native prairie species to invasions and native-invasive species competition. In a controlled, greenhouse experiment, we found that big bluestem emergence, growth, and biomass decreased when co-planted with velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens), a semi-invasive species in the area. We found velvet bean planted alone to emerge over a week earlier, compared to beans co-planted with big bluestem, indicating a mutually suppressive effect of the two species in their initial developmental stage. Nevertheless, after 12 weeks, no differences were detected in the velvet bean’s development, height, and overall biomass, when planted alone, or in combination. On the other hand, big bluestem biomass decreased by 70%, while the shoot/root biomass ratio favored a higher shoot mass versus roots in the plants exposed to the competitive pressure, indicating repression of root growth in these plants 12 weeks after emergence. Leaves of big bluestem growing alone showed a nearly two-fold higher total chlorophyll (304 ± 23 µg m-2) than the competing grass (166 ± 14 µg m-2), 12 weeks after emergence, indicating that the competing grass was experiencing “stress-like” conditions. We attribute this effect to a potential belowground chemical interaction between the two competing species. The exact nature of these, potentially chemical interactions will be further investigated in the future.
Dr. Csengele Barta
Larison, Teri; Weber, Sonja; Burroughs, Nora; Frye, Rene; Justus, Angel; Schneider, Jeremy; Kuy, Jacob; Zahnd, Alyka; Poush, Jessica; Tinoco, Lauren; Menne, Colleen, Pavini, Amadeu; Barta, Csengele The Missouri Western State University’s John Rushin Teaching and Research Prairie: a three-year survey of native vs. invasive plant species’ success after seeding and first controlled burn management.
Prairies historically covered over 400,000 square-miles of North America. As consequence of land use change prairie coverage substantially declined. In recent years, the scientific focus on prairie restoration has increased, establishing the basis of science-informed management practices. Missouri Western State University has become a championing institution of on-site prairie restoration in Missouri, restoring a 26-acre campus plot to a conservation prairie. The John Rushin Teaching and Research Prairie today serves as model prairie ecosystem designed to facilitate scientific research and applied learning. Our work, as part of a long-term ecological and eco-physiological study framework, focused on an initial, two-year survey of emerging prairie vegetation after the initial seeding in the beginning of 2020, and the relationship between emerging native species and invasive species, and changes in the vegetation composition following a controlled burn management in the third year, in 2023. We found, that in its first two years after seeding, only a proportion of the seeded prairie vegetation emerged successfully, while invasives and noxious weeds were represented by a large number of species. About 60% of the emerging vegetation cover were native species, and 40% non-native. 50% of all identified species are weeds, 14% of which are noxious weeds. Of all identified species about 24% were grasses, and 27% belong to the Asteraceae (Daisy) family. Post-burn, we recorded an increased proportion of native species (75%) and emergence of new, originally seeded species for the first time. Further prairie management and successful competition between prairie species and invasives is expected to alter species composition in the following years, potentially shifting towards a higher success of native prairie species vs. invasives. Planned differential management practices, launching in 2024, on the surveyed plots are expected to reveal best-fit management practices to ensure native success and conservation, in the following years.
Dr. Csengele Barta
Frye, Rene; Prawitz, Rachael; Barta, Csengele Enhancing crop defense strategies and productivity through the utilization of biogenic plant volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in agriculture: a case study.
New sustainable solutions are crucial for modern agriculture, facing various challenges such as environmental pressures by a changing climate, the need for resilient crops, and increased demand for productivity. The sustainable exploitation of natural resources and metabolites has the potential to both intensify productivity and safeguard food security. Plants allocate a significant amount of their fixed carbon to producing volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs emitted from leaves have great potential for agriculture, serving as a natural and eco-friendly solution to protect plants from stress and improve crop yields. While VOCs have solely been utilized for deterring herbivores, it is important to recognize that their potential applications extend far beyond this limited use. VOCs can protect against a range of stressors, including pathogens and environmental stresses, potential yet untapped for agricultural applications. Our current study focused on the understanding whether variations in the synthesis and emission of the most abundant plant VOC, isoprene, in response to temperature and light intensity affect plant development, in particular, the timing of the onset of senescence and benefit plant health under elevated temperatures in a feedstock-rotation crop, velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens), naturally emitting isoprene. Potted plants were grown in a greenhouse at very high (39°C;HT1), high (35°C;HT2), intermediate (30°C;IT) and low (25°C;LT) daytime temperatures, exposed to either 1100 (high-light;HL) or 400 (low-light;LL) µmolm-2s-1 irradiances of photosynthetically active radiation. We found, that plants with high isoprene emissions (under high temperatures and high light) showed delayed senescence, likely due to isoprene’s antioxidant action neutralizing reactive oxygen species and the priming effect of higher H2O2 levels, upregulating the plant’s antioxidant network and isoprene emission. Our work demonstrates, that the capacity to emit isoprene provides yet untapped developmental, health and fitness benefits to emitter crop species, and opens the door for applications in developing climate-smart crops for the future.
Dr. Csengele Barta
Barta, Csengele; Jenkins, Brian; Lindstrom, Devon; Zahnd, Alyka; Szekely, Gyongyi The first evidence of gibberellic acid’s ability to modulate target species’ sensitivity to honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) allelochemicals
Invasive species employ competitive strategies such as releasing allelopathic chemicals into the environment that negatively impact native species. Decomposing Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) leaves leach various allelopathic phenolics into the soil, decreasing the vigor of several native species. Notable differences in the net negative impacts of L. maackii metabolites on target species were argued to depend on soil properties, the microbiome, the proximity to the allelochemical source, the allelochemical concentration, or environmental conditions. This study is the first to address the role of target species’ metabolic properties in determining their net sensitivity to allelopathic inhibition by L. maackii. Gibberellic acid (GA3) is a critical seed germination and early development regulator. We hypothesized that GA3 levels might affect the target sensitivity to allelopathic inhibitors and evaluated differences in the response of a standard (control, Rbr), a GA3-overproducing (ein), and a GA3-deficient (ros) Brassica rapa variety to L. maackii allelochemicals. Our results demonstrate that high GA3 concentrations substantially alleviate the inhibitory effects of L. maackii allelochemicals. A better understanding of the importance of target species’ metabolic properties in their responses to allelochemicals will contribute to developing novel invasive species control and biodiversity conservation protocols and may contribute to applications in agriculture.
Cook, Tyson Dicot Biodiversity on a Second Season Post-Burn Prairie
Native grassland habitats have an incredibly diverse flora population, dicots make up a large percentage of the flowering populations of plants that make up the prairie ecosystem. This study aims to help categorize and document the species that are present across our prairie and monitor the effectiveness of prescribed fire as a tool to increase native biodiversity and decrease the presence of invasive species.
Dr. Tilo Roy
Literature review
Vulgamott, Savannah; Wellman, Brandi; Sorrells, Mack Wildlife Corridors
We are looking at articles that discuss the benefits, cons, cost, and types of wildlife corridors in effect in different areas of the country and world. Our main focus is on mammals and how it benefits them and their populations.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
svulgamott1@missouriwestern.edu
Sears, Jerren; Sears, Jaeden; Hoerr, Ethan Chronic Wasting Disease in White-tailed Deer
Literature review of chronic wasting disease in White-tailed Deer
Dr. Cary Chevalier
Harkelroad, Aizlynn; Kessinger, Alex; Rivera, Solana Iceland’s Formation and Biogeography
Iceland, founded over 1000 years ago by Norse settlers, is a remote subarctic island that emerged from a volcanic hotspot 17 million years ago. Due to its isolation, the island has produced many unique biota, including the Iceland stickleback and ocean quahog, and has given rise to the Crymostygidae and Mictosomatidae families.
Dr. Tilo Roy
aharkleroad@missouriwestern.edu
Hendrickson, Zachary; Bicklein, Walter; Evans, Boaz Convergent Evolution in Sugar Gliders and Flying Squirrels
A review of the literature covering the independent convergent evolution of gliding in both flying squirrels and sugar gliders.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
zhendrickson1@missouriwestern.edu
Lewis, Brian; Cook, Tyson Biogeography and Evolution of Papua New Guinea
This presentation will describe the evolution of the physical structure, native species, lifestyles of inhabitants, political/economical alignment, and tectonic origins of the island of Papua New Guinea. We aim to explore human influences on the geography and biodiversity of the island. Conservation efforts for endemic species such as the Matschie’s Tree-Kangaroo will also be discussed.
Dr. Tilo Roy
Chambers, Braxton; Bathke, Ben; Black, Cy Conservation of Feral Horses and Burrows in the United States
Feral horse and burrow populations have been a hot topic of debate since before the establishment of the Wild Horses and Burros Act of 1971. Back when first created, the act was meant to restore the dwindling populations of America’s non-native wild horses. Now, these populations mean to threaten western American ecosystems as they continuously create problems for other species.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
bchambers4@missouriwestern.edu
Shull, Autumn; Pirkel, Rebecca; Teachout, Caleb Echolocation in Bats
This poster looks at what echolocation is as well as how bats use it. It discusses information on bats, echolocation, the evolution of echolocation, and how bats echolocate.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
Taylor, Clareece; Danner, Ashtyn; Gazi, Sam Convergent Evolution of Bone Morphology in Slow Arboreal Mammals
Our poster shows convergent evolution in slow arboreal mammals, specifically focusing on bone morphology characteristics.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
Allen, Grace; Weber, Sonja; Cook, Tyson White Nose Syndrome in Bats
White nose syndrome is an incredibly destructive fungus that primarily affects the respiratory system and wings in multiple species of bats. WNS can cause advanced lesions, behavioral changes, and disrupt hibernation practices which causes a plethora of problems for bat species.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
Internship experience
Myers, David Internship With Missouri Department of Conservation
This summer I got the chance to intern with the Missouri Department of Conservation. I was able to get in with the science branch and work on the Missouri River, as well as the Platte River. We did a pallid sturgeon research project. Pallid sturgeon are an endangered species that inhabit the river. I was also able to help out with fish community surveys using electrofishing for catfish on the Missouri River.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
Hoerr, Ethan Internship with Pheasants Forever
Internship through Pheasants Forever/Quail Forever completed in the summer of 2023. Summary of work completed alongside National Resource Conservation Service employees and Pheasants Forever employees. I worked with Conservation Reserve Programs, CRP and with farmers and landowners. Forb, flower, and legume identification along with various species of tree plantings were heavily studied in my work. We worked to improve Quail habitat through the Northwest Missouri counties.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
Firsching, Macioe Wildlife Rehabilitation Internship Summary
This poster will summarize my summer internships at wildlife rescue centers where I learn to care for sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife.
mfirsching@missouriwestern.edu
Department of Nursing
Research
Shepoka, Mia; Boyd, Alaina; Fleek, Sidney; Grace, Carlie; Mann, Summer; Fude, Summer; Staten, Bryli Effect of Education on Vaccination Rates within Pregnant Women Nursing res
Pregnant mothers are hesitant to get the COVID-19 vaccination due to the lack of education provided. Objectives as to why these mothers are hesitant relate to the lack of education and not knowing the benefits of the vaccination. Mothers question whether or not the vaccine causes more harm than contracting COVID-19. A lack of education is suspected to be the barrier between pregnant mothers and getting vaccinated. The hypothesis being tested is that hesitant expectant moms will become vaccinated after receiving education on the COVID-19 vaccine. The aim of the educational project is that by December 2024, one hundred percent of reluctant pregnant women seen in the clinic will have received an education; patients will self-report decreased hesitancy after receiving the education and increased vaccine rates. After providing education, the nurses will document and measure the education. This study resulted in hesitant pregnant mothers receiving the COVID-19 vaccination after being educated. Vaccination will reduce the spread of COVID-19, and individuals will develop less severe symptoms if the virus is contracted. This study is essential as it highlights the significance of education and how being knowledgeable can reduce vaccine hesitancy. Keywords: educated, uneducated, pregnancy, mothers, moms, pregnant moms, pregnant mothers, pregnant women, vaccinated, unvaccinated, education, mask, quarantine, hand-washing, social distancing, hesitancy, covid-19
Prof. Allison Anderson
Culver, Sam; Futrell, Olivia; Preston, Maya; Wells, Brylee Preoperative Analgesia for Postoperative Pain
Significant amounts of postoperative pain is a common issue for patients who undergo surgery. Minimizing excessive postoperative pain and promoting optimal pain management must be prioritized for all surgical patients. This paper delves into the correlation between proper management of postoperative pain and positive health outcomes with high patient satisfaction Our work covers the topics of how managing a patient’s pain reduces the amount of postoperative complications, and how including patients in their pain management can hold the patient accountable and also reduce the amount of pain the patient experiences. When the healthcare team allows the patient to be an active participant in their care it allows the patient to express to the healthcare team what works for them in their pain management. This will also allow the healthcare team to know the best course of action in how to manage the pain with pharmacological and non-pharmacological practices. Ultimately our research showed a positive relationship between pain management and positive health outcomes with high patient satisfaction.
Prof. Allison Anderson
Anderson, Jordon; Varghese, Latha Exploring Nurse-Patient Trust among Generation Z Nursing Students
Purpose: To explore trust in a nurse-patient relationship from the perspectives of Generation Z nursing students. Background/Significance: Trust is the confidence that the care provided will be relevant, reliable, and successful. Evidence supports the positive impact of trust on patients’ health outcomes. Furthermore, trust is a crucial factor in the nurse-patient relationships. Unmet patients’ expectations result in distrust, creating a chasm in the nurse-patient relationship. Recent studies identified a disconnect between patients’ and nurses’ role expectations, highlighting the need to explore trust from different stakeholder perspectives. Trust has been explored from the perspectives of patients and nurses but is yet to be explored from the perspective of Generation Z capstone nursing students, the future nurses, whose personal values are unlike the generations before them. Method: A descriptive qualitative study design is used in this study. The participants are Generation Z nursing students recruited from the Missouri Western State University located in a small town in a Midwestern state. Eligible and consented participants will be interviewed one-to-one using a semi-structured interview questionnaire and audio recorded. Data analysis will be completed using directed content analysis.
Prof. Latha Varghese
janderson60@missouriwestern.edu
Johnson, Caiden; Johnson, Savannah; Angela, Gastineau; Dawson, Cottle; Lexie, Rowell; Shelbi, Koehler; Tina, Beck Reducing The Rate Of C-Sections Through Prenatal Interventions
C-sections are procedures that continue to increase in our world. Our goal for this paper is to help explain why we think prenatal classes should be implemented into every OB unit. The PICO question that was developed to help guide our research was: In pregnant women (P), does antenatal education (I) compared to baseline knowledge (C) decrease the possibility of unplanned C-sections (O)? This paper discusses multiple published articles on how to decrease c-section rates by implementing prenatal education classes. Evidence is provided as to why education classes will be beneficial for the mom, the baby and her birthing partner. To achieve this goal in the healthcare field, our group came up with three objectives that will be reached once classes have been completed. One of our objectives is 75% of women who come to our unit in active labor after 37 weeks gestation will have received antenatal education prior to 32 weeks of gestation. The second objective is 20% of women in active labor will come in with a support person who attended the antenatal education class with them. Our third and final objective is that 80% of women will be able to cope better with the fear and anxiety associated with birth after attending antenatal classes reducing the number of c-sections. Throughout this paper we have explored a variety of sources to help prevent and reduce the amount of unnecessary c-sections.
Prof. Mackenzie Evans
cjohnson90@missouriwestern.edu
Literature review
Anderson, Stacy; Wuerfele, Sadie; CDeBaca, Isabela; Yuille, Ashlyn; Siskey, Lizzie In Postoperative patients, does the use of premedication, compared to usual care, decrease postoperative pain.
Postoperative pain is a common concern following surgical procedures that can often lead to patient discomfort and delayed recovery. The administration of preoperative medication has been explored as a potential strategy to prevent or alleviate postoperative pain. Our review highlights that certain classes of medications such as opioids, and even anticonvulsants, have shown efficacy in reducing pain intensity and opioid consumption. Preoperative administration of analgesics has also been associated with a lower incidence of chronic postoperative pain and improved and improved patient satisfaction. However, the potential side effects and patient-specific factors should be considered when determining the optimal preoperative medication regimen. Further research is needed to establish standardized protocols, identify the best medication combination, and evaluate long-term outcomes. Overall, preoperative medication has the potential to improve postoperative pain management, but personalized approaches to individual patient preferences are essential.
Prof. Allison Anderson
swaldroff1@missouriwestern.edu
Mazur, Emilie; Cook, Grace; Rangel, Emily; deJong, Britlyn; Ranes, Karly; Patel, Urmi; Le, Chinh Postoperative Pain Prevalence and Non-Pharmacological Interventions
In this study, we researched the effect of providing education regarding non-pharmacological interventions on acute pain after surgery. Postoperative pain has been an ongoing issue for many years. In the past, research has shown that the most common way to treat postoperative pain was with opioids. With this type of treatment, healthcare facilities and providers were reporting an influx of prolonged postoperative pain related to the procedure, dependence on the pharmaceutical prescribed after the procedure, or both. Because of the previous statement, non pharmacological interventions have become more prevalent within the world of healthcare. These interventions allow us to limit our use of pharmaceutical drugs. Not only would the use of non pharmacological interventions minimize the amount of pharmaceutical drug use, but it would also allow for the alteration in care planning to ensure a patient-centered approach for each individual patient. The non pharmacological interventions discussed within this study include guided imagery, musical therapy, acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy, and virtual reality. The types of studies utilized within this paper included various meta-analyses that contained 33 studies altogether including 122 randomized controlled trials and many other cohort studies.
Prof. Allison Anderson
Herrman, Mackenzie; Huffman, Hannah; Smith, Alexis; Nash, Madison; King, Sidney; Brosi, Trent; Gromling, Elijah COVID-19 Vaccination and Education Rates Among Pregnant Women
Vaccine creation changed the course of medical history. Vaccination against certain diseases allows the body to create an antibody response to specific antigens without a full immune response within the body. However, vaccines have caused controversy throughout history. Most recently, the COVID-19 vaccine caused controversy and concern among individuals. In 2020, COVID-19, an airborne respiratory virus, caused a global pandemic with mass casualties. Despite the rapid onset of COVID-19, a vaccine was created relatively quickly. This created hesitation among individuals to get vaccinated as concern over efficacy and safety arised. One main group that still has hesitation on the COVID-19 vaccine is pregnant women. Some pregnant women have reservations regarding COVID-19 vaccination due to lack of education. Therefore, this paper looked at multiple studies to see the effects of not receiving vaccination towards COVID-19 had on mom and fetus, while analyzing whether proper education toward vaccine efficacy and safety changed outcomes. Results showed that education decreased vaccine hesitancy among pregnant women. Therefore, it is necessary that pregnant women should be properly educated over vaccine efficacy and safety in pregnancy to reduce morbidity and mortality if COVID-19 infection arises.
Prof. Allison Anderson
Department of Psychology
Research
Udovenko, Artemii Accent on Bias: Exploring Speech Comprehensibility and Hiring Decisions
Research on bias against accented speech in hiring reveals two possible causes: prejudice and difficulty understanding speech. Experiment 1 isolates accent and comprehensibility, showing comprehensibility independently affects speech understanding. Experiment 2 explores their influence on hiring decisions without significant effects. These studies offer a methodological approach to understanding hiring biases.
Dr. Kelly Henry
McKeighan, Rachel Using Mindfulness Meditation With Children Who Have Experienced Trauma
In this investigation, a six-week intervention period of mindfulness mediation training was utilized in a group foster home setting in order to determine the effects of mindfulness meditation on children who have experienced trauma. Children completed pre-and post-test questionnaires measuring mindfulness, emotion-regulation, anxiety, depression, and stress.
Dr. Christine Ziemer
rmckeighan@missouriwestern.edu
Turner, Stephanie; Hernandez, Sheyla; Bowen-Smith, Jules; Holles, Claire; Kempf, Lauren; Douglas, Madison Seat-Seeking Behavior: A Personality Chair-acter Study Among College Students
This research explored whether college classroom seating choices correlated with personality, anxiety, self-esteem, and social/environmental factors. Participants (N = 122) completed personality, anxiety, self-esteem and seat selection inventories and indicated where they normally sat in the college classroom. Results showed significant relationships between seating and social/environmental factors, but not personality, anxiety and self-esteem.
Dr. Teddi Deka
Comella, Michael; Elrod, Valeria; Montiel, Marian; Nylund, Lauren; Richie, Olivia Dark Triad Illuminating Team Experience: Effects of Framing on Anticipated Team Cohesion
Dark triad traits (narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism) are generally bad for team goals, except for narcissism, which can be positive for individual team member outcomes. Transformational leadership, norms, and cohesion all correlate positively with each other, which suggests that leaders who frame dark triad traits as normatively more positive may mitigate their bad effects. The present study tests the hypothesis that framing such traits in positive ways will increase anticipated team cohesion. Fifty-one undergraduates participated for course credit. They read a scenario about an athletic team with a member who had dark triad traits. The traits were framed either positively, neutrally, or negatively. They then completed ratings of anticipated team cohesion, experience as a serious athlete, and demographics. Results showed a significant negative effect on anticipated cohesion in the negative framing condition. Experience as a serious athlete may also affect the way framing impacts cohesion. Future research should explore athletic experience in more detail, and test a more precise effort to frame the traits positively.
Dr. Kelly Henry
Internship experience
Evans, Brittani Empowering Success: The Power of Peer Mentoring
This poster summarizes my first practicum experience at Missouri Western State University with the Purpose First Peer Connection program, which opened up for first-year students on campus in the spring semester of 2023. My responsibilities entailed helping students with resumes, cover letters, and Handshake (a career platform); helping to create and provide programs to promote community awareness of campus resources and events; and assisting diverse and first-generation students by connecting to resources on campus, including the Center for Academic Success, Career Development Center, Counseling, Center for Diversity and Inclusion, and many more. Purpose First Peer Connection, also known as peer mentoring, helps bring social support and self-disclosure to beginning students in their first year of college. Supporting first-year students not only helps to increase college achievement but also makes additional resources more easily accessible and easy for students to get more familiar with. From my experience as a peer connector, it has helped me strengthen my social connection, decreasing any barriers to reaching out for academic and mental support.
Dr. Kayla Waters
Department of Engineering Technology
Research
Bui, Joseph Mini Satellites Efficient Power System
Mini satellites are commonly used nowadays as researchers and scientists are trying to explore new information about space. Mini satellites’ lifespan is on average around a year and their energy system helps provide power for itself. Solar power is the best way for mini satellites to produce energy as it’s exposed to the sun for the majority of its life provided with a powerful energy supply for times when the sun is away, and is proven to be super efficient with more benefits compared to other mini satellites constructed in the past. This project will cover ways to help improve mini satellites’ energy systems using solar power as its main source of energy production for the best efficiency. The changes proposed have been tested in labs using space-like environments to prove its efficiency in those harsh environments.
Dr. Jinwen Zhu
jbui@missouriwestern.edu
Internship experience
Tyson, Roland Understanding Glassworking
When in the field of glass working in construction, I have gotten taught in the ways learning, understanding, and demonstrating what it takes to manage and produce when projects are arising. A&W Glass has given me the opportunity to get a full grasp on the trade.
Dr. Jinwen Zhu
rtyson3@missouriwestern.edu
Department of Criminal Justice and Legal Studies
Research
Stein, Rebecca Arbitration & Arbitrators Crimin res
Arbitration is a type of alternative dispute resolution where the two parties make their arguments to a neutral third party. This third party called an arbiter or arbitrator then makes the final decision. Becoming an arbiter is a potential career path this presentation shows.
Dr. Greg Lindsteadt
jstein2@missouriwesten.edu
Miller, Abby Women in Parole Crimin res
My poster is about women in parole and how their needs are different compared to men in parole. I researched things that women parolees struggle with when it comes to rejoining society and some resources that can help them.
Dr. Greg Lindsteadt
amiller61@missouriwestern.edu
Literature review
Vandermolen, Aubrey Crime Scene Investigation
Where there are people, there will be crime. Crime Scene Investigators have excellent job security based on the constant need in the criminal justice field, specifically investigation. A person pursuing a Crime Scene Investigator position can best prepare themselves with a combination of education, training, and career experience.
Dr. Greg Lindsteadt
avandermolen@missouriwestern.edu
Internship experience
Villanueva, Mark California Highway Patrol’s Investigation Service Unit Crimin inter
My presentation will provide an analysis of the role and impact of the California Highway Patrol’s Investigation Service Unit in solving complex crimes and protecting the public. The presentation will include a detailed examination of the California Highway Patrol’s Investigation Service Unit, including its history, structure, and responsibilities. It also analyzes the methods and techniques used by the unit to solve complex crimes, such as homicides, vehicle theft, and organized crime.
Dr. Greg Lindsteadt
mvillanueva@missouriwestern.edu