Biology
Literature review
Carter, Cleary; Kolb, Blayke; McClellan, Emily
Wild Bird Conservation and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918
This poster aims to inform others about what wild bird conservation is and how it effects not just birds but people as well. The poster also will inform you about what the migratory bird treaty act is and how it is still important today.
Cary Chevalier
ccleary@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Literature review
Livers, Anna; Sharp, Jada; Gerhing, Kemper
Wildlife on Private Lands
An explanation of the legal framework surrounding wildlife and wildlife conservation on private lands.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
alivers@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Literature review
Bien, Cooper; Ramey, Joseph; Larimer, Rosalyn
Tribal Rights to Wildlife
We conducted a literary review on tribal rights to wildlife. We focused on their interaction with nature, early law, and on and off reservations.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
cbien@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Literature review
Bracken, Michael; Bathke, Benjamin; Nowak, Treigh
Wildlife on Federal Lands
We reviewed the legal status surrounding wildlife on federal lands. Outlining the history of the federal agencies, like the Bureau of Land Management, and United States Forest Service, along with how they manage federal land such as National Parks, and National Wildlife Refuges.
Dr. Chevalier
mbracken@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Research
Christian, Maxwell
Effects of Cats on Native Species of Birds
Outdoor cats have had a massively detrimental effects on different species of native birds throughout the world. Not only are they one of the most notorious contributors of species of birds becoming threatened, but they have caused many to become extinct. Hawaii is an example of this; at least 30 species of birds have gone extinct since 1930 in Hawaii alone because of outdoor cats.
Dr, Mark Mills
mchristian1@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Literature Review
Cook, Tyson; Furhman, Emily; Sample, Charlie;
The Effects Of A Global Pandemic On An Endangered Species
This project fulfills the poster requirement for Hon195: Extinction is Forever. This poster summarizes the effects of Sara-CoV-2 on endangered snow leopards. Snow leopards have been a species in serious decline for years. Many species are held in zoos nationwide for public display, research, captive breeding, and other uses. During the COVID pandemic, several individual snow leopards were infected and suffered long term health declines or death as a result. This poster aims to raise awareness about the potential for human-animal disease spread in zoos and document management changes as a result of COVID.
Dr. Mark Mills
tcook23@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Research
Peaslee, Camrin
Odonate Abundance and Diversity in Ponds of an Urban University Campus
Odonate naiads (dragonflies and damselflies) are key predators in aquatic ecosystems and can be used as bioindicator taxa. The goal of this study was to survey odonate abundance and diversity across nine ponds on the Missouri Western State University campus. We took three dip-net samples from each pond, identified all odonate naiads to the lowest taxonomic level possible (family or genus), and calculated a Shannon diversity index for each pond. Here we compare the odonate communities of the nine ponds and discuss how our findings relate to the different land uses and water quality parameters of each pond. This study provides baseline data for future odonate sampling as an indicator of pond ecosystem integrity.
Carissa Ganong, Mark Mills
cpeaslee@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Literature Review
Lee, London; Diblasi, Evan
Capturing and Owning Wildlife
this presentation covers law on the capture and ownership of wildlife, including history, cases, and specific legislation.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
llee10@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Research
Hendrickson, Veronica
Sea Otters
This poster explores the species Enhydra lutris, or the Sea Otter, and how it is important to the field of wildlife conservation and management. Sea Otters are a keystone species, and are an important member of their ecosystem. They are one of the main predators of Sea Urchins, and help to keep them from overrunning the ecosystem. Sea Otters are important to wildlife conservation because they provide an easy to understand example of keystone species, predator/prey relationships, and endangered animals for the general population to learn about wildlife conservation and management.
Dr. Newton
vhendrickson1@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Summary of an internship or practicum experience
Evans, Boaz
Blanding’s Turtle Activity Monitoring at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
During the 2023-2024 school year I got the opportunity to intern at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge. The main project that I worked on was the tracking of Blanding’s turtles using radio telemetry but there were many others too. This is important as they are listed as endangered in Missouri. I also worked on water level management and habitat restoration.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
bevans13@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Summary of an internship or practicum experience
Mercado, Terence; Allen, Grace; McClellan, Emily; Turner, Falcon; Welchert, Darrin; Mills, Mark
Wood Duck Box Maintenance, Beaver Damage Control, and DIY GPS Data Loggers at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
Internship at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge (USFWS), a host to multiple mammalian, avian, & herpetofauna species. Upkeep of bird boxes, made specifically for wood ducks, is essential for providing proper alternative nesting areas for wood ducks. Traps were used for beaver population control. Beaver lodges, dams, and other debris around water control structures were manually removed to allow proper flow of water from one unit of wetland to another. Self-built GPS Data loggers, though requiring some technical know-how and time, are a cost-efficient alternative to buying the more expensive commercial counterpart.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
tmercado@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Literature review
Jameson, Connor; Roy, Tilottama
A study of the morphological features of the endangered North American Aggalinis (“False Foxgloves”)
In this comparative study, we did a comparative study between Agalinis species in North America. Agalinis is a plant group also commonly known as the False Foxgloves, that contains around 70 total species. Majority of Agalinis are federally listed as endangered. We utilized morphological and molecular evolutionary trait variations between the different species, to understand how certain species are closely related to other species. We also looked into the ecological importance of Agalinis and how they were used back then and today. Agalinis species are mostly similar in appearance, although there are specific morphological differences between the species. Understanding these morphological variations can help people understand their ecological, medicinal, and taxonomic value, as well as the conservation importance and the evolution of plants.
Dr. Roy
cjameson4@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Research
Vienhage, Kendall
Bumblebees as a Model for Human Work Lifestyle
Bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) are pollinators seen across the northern hemisphere. They are characterized by their black and yellow coloring and fuzzy and chubby bodies. This insect displays cognition of inferential reasoning, being able to make decisions without complete information, a skill that is rarely seen in invertebrates. Another skill not often seen in invertebrates is play-behavior, or any activity that is observed to be intrinsically satisfying, While Bombus terrestris does not display a sophisticated language like the honeybee dancing language, the bumblebee shows social learning of skills that could not be acquired without the young learning from their seniors. As the life cycle of the hive progresses, the social dynamics change from a solitary stage where the queen will forage to a eusocial stage. The eusocial stage is more complex than others think, it has a caste system based on the size of the individuals within the colony and disputes between the females and queen in the sex ratio of the colony. While many of the systems within a bumblebee are not inherently human, there are many similarities that can be drawn or adopted by humans. From a psychological perspective, using bumblebees as a model for human behavior could help with greater satisfaction in the workplace. While some of the listed behaviors of bumblebees are already used in the workplace, play behavior is especially valuable to break the monotony of an eight-hour workday model. Taking short moments to do anything intrinsically rewarding in “microbreaks” throughout the workday is proven to be beneficial to minimize strain and increase performance. By being like the bumblebee, nearly as advanced cognitively and socially as humans, mental health outcomes involved with the workplace may be greater.
Aracely Newton
kvienhage@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Research
Shane, Euler; Reynolds, Kaidence; Schneeflock, Keaton
Controlling Nuisance Species
Our team have researched a very complex issue in Wildlife Conservation, and that is how to control Nuisance Species and their damage. In our work we defined exactly what they are, as per MDC guidelines, and how they differ from invasive species. We produced evidence of the origins of their control, the need for it, as well as several federal law cases and federal acts that support and protect species in need.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
seuler1@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Research
Lewis, Brian
Understanding the Evolutionary Dynamics of Monkeypox Virus
This presentation seeks to understand the evolutionary dynamics of mpox and illustrates
the global distribution of mpox, a reemerging zoonotic disease with significant public health
implications. By examining genomes across various regions, we can explore the factors driving its spread. Understanding mpox’s distribution is essential for developing effective prevention and control strategies, particularly as urbanization and increased human-animal interactions heighten the risk of zoonotic outbreaks.
Dr. Tilottama Roy
blewis17@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Research
Cook, Tyson; Roy, Tilo
Using Occupancy Modeling To Inform Management Decisions On A Restored Tallgrass Prairie
The John Rushin Teaching and Research Prairie is located on 14 ha in Northwest Missouri. This newly restored tallgrass prairie has a large composition of legumes, asters, and milkweeds. These species are the key study groups due to their relationships with native species and importance for ongoing projects and conservation efforts. The use of occupancy modeling in plant species is fairly novel and allows us to create a unique approach to planning management activities across the prairie. By modeling predicted occurrences of the various species, we can gain insights into new management strategies and allow us to monitor the effectiveness of these strategies.
Prairie ecosystems are an important part of modern conservation efforts. Northwest Missouri was historically dominated by tallgrass prairie landscapes, but has lost nearly all native populations due to a combination of woody encroachment, changes in land use, and large-scale urbanization. The prairies are vital to sustaining a diversity of mammals, birds, and insects. The composition of prairie ecosystems is highly variable and allows for unique niche occupations.
Tilo Roy
tcook23@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Summary of an internship or practicum experience.
Cook, Tyson
Abundance and diversity of native bees in North Dakota: Student Internship
Students conducted surveys to assess the diversity and abundance of key bee species in North Dakota. Students utilized linear transects, sweep nets, blue vane traps, and pitfalls to observe various behaviors and habits. This internship fulfills the requirements for the Wildlife Conservation degree plan.
C.D. Chevalier
tcook23@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Summary of an internship or practicum experience.
Cartwright, Jackson
Clay County Seasonal Naturalist Internship
This presentation covers the duties of a seasonal naturalist working at the Smithville Lake Nature Center under Clay County Parks. It will cover the presentational aspects both at the nature center and at other locations, as well as animal care and facilities work that was required under this internship.
Cary Chevalier
jcartwright@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Summary of an internship or practicum experience.
Spradlin, Kyla
Internship at Smithville Nature Center
During summer 2024, I had the opportunity to work at the Smithville Nature Center. A large portion of the work involved creating and giving nature presentations in a variety of environments (libraries, schools, and campgrounds). I also had the opportunity to complete invasive species control, center maintenance, reptile and amphibian husbandry, and shadow the jobs of the waste manager and spray specialist at this location.
Cary Chevalier
kspradlin@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Summary of an internship or practicum experience.
Bicklein, Walter
Internship at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
My work over the past year and a half working as an intern for Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge under Darrin Welchert
Dr C
wbicklein@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Summary of an internship or practicum experience.
Wellman, Brandi
Internship with Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
Sharing my experience working with Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge and displaying photographs that reflect on the activities I participated in.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
bwellman@missouriwestern.edu
Biology
Summary of an internship or practicum experience.
Turner, Falcon
Wetland Management Internship at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge is part of the United States Fish and Wildlife Services National Wildlife Refuge System. Their mission is to manage land and water, to restore and maintain habitats to conserve and protect wildlife for the good of current and future generations. I completed an internship with Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge from May 1st 2024 to August 10th 2024 as a requirement for the Wildlife Conservation and Management degree plan (BIO425) at Missouri Western State University. During my internship, I got to learn the many facets to Wetland Management, however there are three conservation projects that have been my main focus through this experience: Blanding’s Turtle’s Spatial Ecology, Native Prairie Restoration and Seed Planting, and Wood Duck Banding.
Dr. Cary Chevalier
fturner2@missouriwestern.edu
Biology, Other
Literature review
Edens, Cass; Shatto, Lakelyn
Why You Should Care about Shark Conservation
As part of the course requirements for HON 195, our poster will conduct a general review of the threats that sharks face and the efforts being taken towards recovery. We will discuss the importance of shark conservation, and why more people should care about these wonderful creatures.
Dr. Mark Mills
tedens@missouriwestern.edu
Biology, Other
Research
Denne, Quinn
Blandings Turtles
Blandings turtle are a freshwater turtle species native to North America. Their habitat consists of wetlands with lots of vegetation. The blandings turtle population faces many threats such as habitat loss and predation causing them to be classified as endangered in many regions. This poster is about the conservation strategies used to protect this turtle population.
Mark Mills
Qdenne@missouriwestern.edu
Biology, School of Fine Arts – Art, Other
Research
Kessinger, Alex
The relationship between Carboniferous plants, Pixar movies, and carbon emissions
Although initially challenged with tying digital animation and biology together, through research and content analysis I have found that producing digital animation would not be possible without the plants present during the Carboniferous period, such as Calamites. Calamites, a tree-like plant present during the Carboniferous period (which took place approximately 300 million years ago) underwent carbonization. During the carboniferous period, modern bacteria and fungi that decompose dead organic matter had yet to evolve, so instead of experiencing quick decomposition, deceased plants would be buried under mud and other vegetation, eventually compressing the plant’s carbon into coal through dense pressure and high temperatures. This process resulting in the coal we harvest today and use for approximately 30% of the United State’s electricity. One ton of harvested coal produces about 2,460 kWh of electricity. To create animated films, each frame—an image within a sequence of images, with typically 24 to 30 frames needed per second of a film—undergoes a process called rendering. Rendering is the process of a computer calculating the color and value of each individual pixel in an image; the more complex an image is, the more calculations and time is required to render it. To render out a movie, an animation studio will employ a render farm: a building filled with computers constantly running calculations, which requires a lot of power. Producing a Pixar movie—using Monster’s University as an example—requires 35,040 MW of power. This amount of power burns about 14,244 tons of coal for a single movie, resulting in an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, releasing sulfur, and contributing to global warming. This power, and therefore these films and their effects, would not exist without the carboniferous plants such as Calamites present 300 million years ago.
Tilo Roy, Aracely Newton, and Lance Winkel
jkessinger@missouriwestern.edu
Chemistry
Literature review
Woodbury, Bailey; Adams, Ian
Peanut Anaphylaxis and Emerging Treatments
Peanut allergies are one of the most common allergies and, in some cases, could cause anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can develop rapidly. Anaphylactic symptoms such as inflammation, low blood pressure, and unconsciousness could lead to death unless epinephrine is administered via an epinephrine auto-injector—also known as the EpiPen—and hospitalization treatment is received. While EpiPens are still the leading treatment for anaphylaxis, scientists are working on new medications that are as effective as EpiPens but are easier and faster to administer such as Neffy, epinephrine nasal spray.
Dr. Stan Svojanovsky
bwoodbury@missouriwestern.edu
Chemistry
Literature review
Fuller, Joshua; Fuller, Matthew
An Overview of Computer Aided Drug Design
Creating a new drug can take 10-15 years and over $2 billion dollars due to research and required clinical studies. Computers have helped expedite drug design by simplifying research and running simulations to determine possible effects of potential lead compounds. Artificial Intelligence (AI) advancements have further improved the efficiency of computer aided drug design. This project describes the processes of computer aided drug design (CADD), its benefits, shortcomings, and potential advancements in the future.
Dr. Stan Svojanovsky
jfuller6@missouriwestern.edu
Chemistry
Literature review
Martynowski, Skyler; Shafer, Gracie
The New Treatment of Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and acts. Someone with schizophrenia might have a hard time distinguishing what is real and what is imaginary. These individuals experience many symptoms caused by multiple changes in the brain. We have researched the current treatment options and facilities for patients with schizophrenia, and why these are not always successful for individuals with schizophrenia. Our main focus is studying the positive treatment trends of the new schizophrenia treatments such as COBENFY, and the switch to Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers.
Stan Svojanovsky
smartynowski@missouriwestern.edu
Chemistry
Research
Henning, Weston; Jackson, Delaney; Johnson, Brayden
Polymerization of Styrene by Varied Temperature and Initiator
This study was an analysis of the polymerization of styrene using two different initiators at three constant temperatures. The polymerization process used was by emulsion. The products were compared by their densities, viscosity, relative yields, and observations of their characteristics. Potassium persulfate trended having lower viscosity as the temperature increased. Overall, the higher temperatures appeared closer to commercial products. The Potassium persulfate initiator was more reliable. The Azobis initiator contained more water.
Dr. Woodford
whenning@missouriwestern.edu
Chemistry
Research
Soderlund, Matilda
Examination of alternate solvent for caffeine extraction lab
This study evaluates three potential substitutes for dichloromethane—diethyl ether, ethyl acetate, and tert-butyl methyl ether (TBME)—for caffeine extraction from energy drinks. Ethyl acetate extracted the most caffeine (11.27 mg), while TBME and diethyl ether extracted 5.77 mg and 2.74 mg, respectively. Ethyl acetate had the longest evaporation time (20 minutes), while diethyl ether evaporated quickly (4 minutes). Ethyl acetate is the most effective alternative, though TBME offers a practical balance between efficiency and evaporation time.
Jonathan Rhoad
msoderlund@missouriwestern.edu
Chemistry
Research
Herbert, Kinser
Mercury Lamp vs Sunlight in Photoinitiation
Mercury gas lamps or other fluorescent lamps are used primarily in photoinitiation experiments as they bring down the amount of time for the initiation to occur. But these lamps are usually less energy efficient, and any use of mercury always proves a risk in case of breakage. In this experiment, sunlight was used as an alternative to a mercury gas lamp in a photoinitiated experiment. It was found that the sunlight did complete the reaction but shorter and more branching.
Dr. Jeffrey Woodford
kherbert@missouriwestern.edu
Communications
Research
Leach, Kylee
Breaking News: The Revolution will be on Social Media
The news audience today is largely on social media. It’s where news happens long before anything can be printed or even appear in a scheduled broadcast. The landscape of news production and distribution is beginning to unfold on social media.
This project, presented at the 2024 Fall National College Media Convention, shows how universities are finding their own ways of garnering attention to their news platforms.
Luling Huang
kleach2@missouriwestern.edu
Craig School of Business
Research
Viers, Tiana
Ready Steady Parts Distribution Planning
In the United States, living several miles away from their workplace has become commonplace. As such, many people must complete a daily commute. Doing this on a daily, at some point, people will need to bring their cars to a mechanic for maintenance or repairs. However, car-related services are not always a quick, easy process. Yet, in this fast-paced world, people want things to be completed quickly, and car-related services are not excluded here. Seeing this desire, auto part distributions have adapted their supply chains. That is, by finding an optimal location for their facility, these distributors can send their delivery vehicles on fixed routes so components can be delivered in less than twenty-four hours. This project gives an example of such a company to show that this industry can adjust to the ever-changing needs of the economy.
Amit Verma
tviers@missouriwestern.edu
Criminal Justice and Legal Studies
Literature review
Evertsen, Brayden
Is MWSU Safe: Utilizing Clery Act to Examine Campus Crime
I will provide the history and relevance of the Clery Act and how schools are required to follow it. I examined three schools close to Missouri Western that are close to the same size in student and analyzed which was the safest. I examined the crime reports as well as student size compared to size of campus in acres.
Dr. Gregory Lindsteadt
bevertsen@missouriwestern.edu
Criminal Justice and Legal Studies
Literature review
Firaol, Dabessa
The Injustice of Prosecutorial Immunity
This presentation will examine the dangers and injustice of prosecutorial immunity, as demonstrated by the Supreme Court’s latest shadow docket in the Price v. Montgomery County case. The presentation is undergirded by a rich empirical data that shows prosecutorial misconduct directly undermines the fairness and equality our legal system should principally imbue, and the immunity that is meant to allow protection from arbitrary suits is in fact creating more harm than good.
Dr. Lindsteadt
fdabessa@missouriwestern.edu
Criminal Justice and Legal Studies
Literature review
Pruetting, Harley
Keeping Schools Safe: Preventative Measures for U.S. School Shootings
My presentation topic is preventative measures to keep U.S. schools safe from school
shootings. The U.S. has more school shootings than all other nations combined and school mass shootings have only become more deadly. Research indicates that risk assessment measures are helpful in determining potential preventative measures unique to each school.
Dr. Lindsteadt
hpruetting@missouriwestern.edu
Criminal Justice and Legal Studies
Research
Wallick, Ryan
Sentencing Guidelines and Imprisonment Rates
Changes in mandatory minimum sentences have impacted imprisonment rates in Missouri. Focus on treatment for mental health issues and substance use disorders lowers recidivism for some non-violent offenses such as drug crimes. I plan to discuss House Bill 1355 in 2018 and Justice Reinvestment Initiative in 2017 as well their impact on incarceration and recidivism in Missouri.
Dr. Lindsteadt
rwallick@missouriwestern.edu
Criminal Justice and Legal Studies
Research
Reese, Elizabeth
Miranda Rights… and Her Issues
For my term project, I discuss Miranda Rights and confessions. What the Miranda Rights are, how they came to be, and why they are so important. Specifically, I discuss what is protected within these rights and I would like to delve into how confessions are derived and how a simple 2-minute speech from an officer can change a person’s life when being arrested. I discuss how false or coerced confessions are obtained, and what methods have been put in pace to prevent this from continuing. Our criminal justice system is not perfect, but strides have been made. I emphasize that there is an issue within the system, and shed some light on the solutions to these issues.
Dr. Monty Smith
ereese@missouriwestern.edu
Engineering Technology
Research
Walker, Kevin
3-D Wheelie Bar
My work is a 3-D printed wheelie bar for a remote controlled car. That has the ability of holding the Rc car lower to the grown keeping the momentum going forward. Stopping it from from flipping over and possibly getting destroyed.
Dr. Jinwen Zhu
kwalker27@missouriwestern.edu
Griffon Media (Griffon News, KGSM-TV, Griffon Yearbook)
Research
Evans, Rebecca
Fantastic Features: The Art of Compelling Storytelling
This research explores strategies for enhancing feature storytelling on campus, focusing on a three-act structure for crafting feature-length scripts. It highlights Griffon University’s peer-reviewed research, which is transformed into compelling video content, and showcases Griffon Media’s role in producing multimedia story packages for news coverage.
Huang Luling
revans18@missouriwestern.edu
Health Professions – Respiratory Therapy, Nursing
Literature review
Thomas, Elizabeth; Williams, Mackenzie; Gibbs, Halle; Voga, Elizabeth; Shipley, Alexis
Adolescent usage of e-cigarettes and how it correlates with EVALI.
Vaping has become an overwhelming problem within the adolescent population. Thisproject examines the usage of vaping, highlighting key aspects including 27.5% of high school and 10.5% of middle school students reporting regular usage of these electronic cigarette devices. Health concerns including how upwards of 95% of participants with EVALI require hospitalization and 50% require an ICU admission. The common misconception of vaping being a low-health risk activity, the easy accessibility, and advertisement of these devices have contributed to the increasing trend of usage in the youth. This has led to increasing issues with addictions, health risks, and EVALI’s of the adolescent population. This project takes a deep dive into the government regulations, vaping effects on the body, barriers to quitting, and the educational aspect needed to prevent teen vaping altogether. This educational program targets the teens of St. Joseph, MO and aims to decrease vaping usage and increase knowledge concerning vaping using the Health Belief Model. With a plan to implement a city-wide, interprofessional, multi-generational program to educate on the dangers of vaping, our team at Missouri Western State University is ready to help our youth extinguish vaping.
MacKenzie Evans and Wendy Woolston
eelder2@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Literature review
Crouse, Emily; Sterner, Tiffany; Schnitker, Taylor
Blood Lead Levels in Children
Lead poisoning levels in children are continuing to rise in our communities. Educating families on sources of lead, lead prevention, and early signs of lead poisoning can help to lower the rates of blood lead levels (BLL) in children. Education, environmental assessment, follow-up care, and identifying barriers to lead poisoning prevention demonstrate the role this study may have on helping to decrease BLL in children. The research question was: In children how does education about lead poisoning before starting kindergarten compared to no education about leading poisoning before starting kindergarten affect lead poisoning rates? A thorough review of the literature demonstrated that following the Healthy Home checklist and thorough follow-up care are the most effective interventions in decreasing BLL.
Mackenzie Evans and Wendy Woolston
ecrouse1@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Literature review
Bentsen, Payton; Hill, Reagen; Muller, James; Bowers, Preston
The Effects of Interprofessional Bedside Report on Patient Satisfaction
Patient satisfaction scores have decreased over time, and one part of this is because of dysfunction in communication between nurses, physicians, and patients. Patient satisfaction is crucial to hospital funding in many ways. The aim of this study is to examine the benefits and shortcomings of bedside report, and how they will affect patient satisfaction scores. The research question we used is: In hospitalized patients, how does implementing bedside report compared to a standard report affect patient satisfaction scores over the period of a year? This study was designed by using evidence-based sources in our literature review to find key points that help improve patient satisfaction scores. Four of our key points in our literature review were: patient-provider trust, patient-centered communication, goal setting, and bedside report. We found data that supports bedside report, and its impact in raising patient satisfaction scores and other qualities. Based on the literature, an evidence-based practice study was configured to implement an interprofessional bedside report on an Oncology unit in an inpatient hospital.
Mackenzie Evans and Wendy Woolston
Pbentsen@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Literature review
Wolf, Jayleigh; Gann, Micaila; Miller, Alesha; Lee, Jaquline
Patient Hardships From Missed Stroke Orders
Abstract
Every four seconds someone in the United States suffers a stroke and every four minutes someone dies from a stroke. Positive outcomes require early recognition and treatment. This project aims to show the importance of healthcare systems to implement and ensure consistent delivery of core orders to optimize patient outcomes. An essential component in the management of strokes is stroke core orders outlined by the American Heart Association. This involves rapid diagnosis, medication administration, imaging, and post-stroke care. Following these standard orders allows healthcare teams to improve stroke management, reduce delays in treatment, and improve recovery rates. Missed core stroke orders lead to decreased patient outcomes. Communication and education barriers contribute to missed core orders as many stroke and neurology units are staffed with agency or float pool nurses who do not receive the same type of education as the core staff. Along with the use of float and agency staffing, short staffing in general leads to missed care and orders being left incomplete. Standardized Stroke Order Sets can increase compliance with ischemic stroke admissions. Universal Stroke Scales such as the NIHSS can be crucial in ensuring proper scoring of stroke patients. Delayed recognition leads to poor outcomes as time is brain. Proper education and knowledge of strokes and the standard core orders are crucial to the outcome of the patient. This research project aims to identify the causes of missed core stroke orders and identify evidence-based practice changes to increase the compliance of stroke management.
Mckenzie Evans, Dr. Wendy Woolston
jwolf11@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Research
Muller, James; Bowers, Preston; Bentsen, Payton; Hill, Reagen
The Effects of Interprofessional Bedside Report on Patient Satisfaction
Patient satisfaction scores have decreased over time, and one part of this is because of dysfunction in communication between nurses, physicians, and patients. Patient satisfaction is crucial to hospital funding in many ways. The aim of this study is to examine the benefits and shortcomings of bedside report, and how they will affect patient satisfaction scores. The research question we used is: In hospitalized patients, how does implementing bedside report compared to a standard report affect patient satisfaction scores over the period of a year? This study was designed by using evidence-based sources in our literature review to find key points that help improve patient satisfaction scores. Four of our key points in our literature review were: patient-provider trust, patient-centered communication, goal setting, and bedside report. We found data that supports bedside report, and its impact in raising patient satisfaction scores and other qualities. Based on the literature, an evidence-based practice study was configured to implement an interprofessional bedside report on an Oncology unit in an inpatient hospital.
Wendy Woolston and Mackenzie Evans
jmuller2@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Literature review
Brown, Saylor; Rich, Haylee; Phoenix, Alanna; Keithley, Hunter
Enhancing HPV Vaccination Rates: The Impact of Mobile Health Education Interventions on Adolescent Vaccine Uptake
The Healthy People 2030 initiative suggests that 80% of children aged 13 through 15 receive the recommended doses of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Currently, only 58.5% of adolescents have completed this vaccination series. HPV infection is present in approximately 80% of sexually active individuals. HPV infection is associated with 90% of anal cancers and almost all cervical cancers in both men and women. Therefore, it is crucial to encourage vaccination among adolescents and their parents. The purpose of this study is to determine reasons for vaccine hesitancy and factors that can be implemented to increase the rates of HPV vaccinations in adolescents. The research question guiding this study is: In adolescents aged 9 to 18, how does the implementation of mobile health education compare to traditional education strategies in affecting HPV vaccination rates over a five-year period? The primary theoretical framework used in this study is the Health Belief Model. This research review analyzes findings from multiple studies addressing similar aspects to HPV vaccination reluctance and strategies to improve vaccine rates. Through this exploration, three primary themes were developed: (1) barriers to HPV vaccination; (2) mobile interventions; and (3) behavioral change theory interventions. The results suggest that mobile health strategies like robocalls, short-messaging systems, and interactive websites created within the framework of behavioral health theories could significantly increase HPV vaccination rates among the target population.
Wendy Woolston
sbrown69@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Research
Rich, Haylee; Brown, Saylor; Keithley, Hunter; Phoenix, Alanna
HPV Vaccination Academic Research Study
The Healthy People 2030 initiative suggests that 80% of children aged 13 through 15 receive the recommended doses of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Currently, only 58.5% of adolescents have completed this vaccination series. HPV infection is present in approximately 80% of sexually active individuals. HPV infection is associated with 90% of anal cancers and almost all cervical cancers in both men and women. Therefore, it is crucial to encourage vaccination among adolescents and their parents. The purpose of this study is to determine reasons for vaccine hesitancy and factors that can be implemented to increase the rates of HPV vaccinations in adolescents. The research question guiding this study is: In adolescents aged 9 to 18, how does the implementation of mobile health education compare to traditional education strategies in affecting HPV vaccination rates over a five-year period? The primary theoretical framework used in this study is the Health Belief Model. This research review analyzes findings from multiple studies addressing similar aspects to HPV vaccination reluctance and strategies to improve vaccine rates. Through this exploration, three primary themes were developed: (1) barriers to HPV vaccination; (2) mobile interventions; and (3) behavioral change theory interventions. The results suggest that mobile health strategies like robocalls, short-messaging systems, and interactive websites created within the framework of behavioral health theories could significantly increase HPV vaccination rates among the target population.
Mackenzie Evans
hnichols@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Research
Taylor, Mason; Darling, Daniel; Hurley, Jackson;
Integrating Diabetes Management in Substance Use Detox: Enhancing Patient Outcomes Through Comprehensive Care
Abstract
Patients with Type 2 diabetes that are also undergoing substance abuse treatment face both problems that put strain on effective approaches to management and treatment of these conditions. The standard care models in place often look at diabetes and substance abuse as two completely separate disorders, thus failing to address the combined effects and leads to increased risk such as poor glycemic control and higher hospitalizations rates. This study looks to evaluate the effects of diabetes specific management strategies (DSME), patient education on both disease conditions within these programs and enhanced physical activity. This study looks to incorporate diabetes Self-management education to provide personalized care that will be nurse-led. This project hypothesizes that the combination of detox treatments with DSME and tailored adjustments can reduce HbA1c levels and decrease diabetes complications up to 25%. Based on the studies, an evidence based practice project was developed to create and implement diabetes self-management education that includes education on alcohol use and substance abuse in a midwest clinic. In this project we have created a tailored DSME program to match the criteria of our participants. Our objective with the program is to monitor and lower HbA1C levels, improve psychological outcomes, improve self-confidence in patient participation in care plans, and ultimately enable our patients to utilize long-term self management techniques that will support improvement of quality of life and health. The predicted outcome is a significant improvement in patient health, reduced hospitalizations, and enhanced long-term management for individuals with T2DM and substance abuse disorders.
Mackenzie Evans
mtaylor42@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Research
Ham, Grace; Voisin, Kate; Gould, Emma; Pujado, Elisabeth
The Effects of Music Therapy on ICU Delirium
A prevalent issue among many intensive care unit patients is the increased risk of delirium, especially in patients with prolonged hospitalizations. Throughout research, it has been found that non pharmacologic interventions have been proven effective in reducing the incidences of delirium amongst patients. The purpose of this study is to explore these interventions, their effectiveness, and tools utilized for early identification. The research question was; In ICU patients (P), how does music therapy (I) compared to no music therapy (C) affect ICU delirium and psychosis (O) in patients with hospital stays greater than five days (T)?
From the research and data collected, we identified three themes including music therapy, non pharmacologic interventions, and understanding effectiveness of assessment tools. The results from these studies showed the effectiveness of music therapy, other non pharmacologic interventions, and the utilization of early identification tools such as the CAM-ICU and 4 A’s Test. Based on the literature, an evidence-based practice project was developed to implement daily music therapy in an intensive care unit at a Midwest hospital. The goal of this project is to evaluate the effects of music therapy in reducing incidences of delirium and improving outcomes for patients, their families, and caregivers.
MacKenzie Evans
gham@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Research
Steeby, Keegan; Peacher, Brylee; Benight, Rylee; Damgar, Macey
EMR Alert Systems Related to Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may range from mild to very severe. Consuming marijuana while taking some prescription medications may result in the effects of marijuana being doubled, bleeding tendencies, changes in levels of consciousness, seizures, electrolyte imbalances, and other complications. Individual medications may react differently when taken with marijuana and therefore safe and responsible marijuana use is our priority. After completing literature reviews, we discovered evidence that supported positive effects of electronic medical record alert systems on patient outcomes. In some cases, electronic medical record alert systems have even reduced mortality. Implementing electronic medical record alert systems allows physicians to ask about marijuana use and then take extra steps needed to discover potential drug interactions. Regular screening for marjuana use decreases the stigma around marijuana use making patients feel more comfortable in reporting usage. Physicians and other healthcare members have reported some barriers for an electronic alert system, therefore we are able to improve this study through their feedback. Our goal through this evidence-based practice project is to alert physicians or nurses within the electronic medical record to ask about marijuana usage. If the patient states they are using marijuana, the physician or nurse will then be prompted to go through the patient’s medication list to determine drug interactions.
Mackenzie Evans & Wendy Woolson
ksteeby6@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Research
Bowers, Preston; Bentsen, Payton; Hill, Reagen
The Effects of Interprofessional Bedside Report on Patient Satisfaction
Patient satisfaction scores have decreased over time, and one part of this is because of dysfunction in communication between nurses, physicians, and patients. Patient satisfaction is crucial to hospital funding in many ways. The aim of this study is to examine the benefits and shortcomings of bedside report, and how they will affect patient satisfaction scores. The research question we used is: In hospitalized patients, how does implementing bedside report compared to a standard report affect patient satisfaction scores over the period of a year? This study was designed by using evidence-based sources in our literature review to find key points that help improve patient satisfaction scores. Four of our key points in our literature review were: patient-provider trust, patient-centered communication, goal setting, and bedside report. We found data that supports bedside report, and its impact in raising patient satisfaction scores and other qualities. Based on the literature, an evidence-based practice study was configured to implement an interprofessional bedside report on an Oncology unit in an inpatient hospital.
Mackenzie Evans & Wendy Woolston
jmuller2@missouriwestern.edu
Nursing
Research
Sumner, Avery; Danker, Kacey; Lowrance, Cameron; Klute, Anna
Effects of Use of a Defecation Postural Modification Device (DMPD) on Constipation in a Medical Surgical Unit
Constipation on medical surgical units affects nearly half the patients that occupy them.
Current interventions such as increasing fluid intake, taking fiber supplements, or other pharmacologic interventions do not typically resolve these issues effectively enough. The aim of our project is to decrease the rates of constipation in medical-surgical patients. We hope to determine that defecation postural modification device (DMPD) use in patients admitted on a medical surgical unit will effectively treat and prevent constipation. The literature found that implementing DMPDs in patients with constipation showed a significant positive impact on the rate and quality of bowel movements by correcting the angle of their colon. This, in turn, prevents and treats constipation effectively. Based on the literature, an evidence-based practice project was developed to implement DMPDs on a medical surgical floor at a Midwest hospital. For this intervention we would need approximately 50 DMPDs of which we determined the brand “Squatty Potty” would be best. In order to implement DMPD use on a medical surgical unit, we need to have effective interprofessional collaboration between nurses, unit managers, unit education, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physicians, and other unit support staff. We would have the nursing staff conduct a survey during their admission assessment of their current bowel elimination habits and quality, along with their current use of DMPDs and have them do this again at discharge in order to compare their baseline with what our intervention has assisted with.
Keywords: medical surgical unit, patients, defecation postural modification devices, DMPDs, Squatty Potty, supplements, high fiber, laxative, stool softener, coffee intake, increased water intake, other bowel elimination aids/methods, bowel movement, bowel elimination, rate of bowel elimination, constipation
Wendy Woolston and MacKenzie Evans
asumner@missouriwestern.edu
Other
Literature review
Ford, Emily
How vaccinations affect quality of life
I will be presenting about the affects of vaccines on the quality of life and how science literacy can affect rates of the vaccinated population.
Dr. Bodgon
eford3@missouriwestern.edu
Other
Literature review
Jones, Madelyn
Pink Tax
Pink Tax has affected women for almost a century. Pink Tax is something most do not know about. It can be defined as a gender-based price discrimination. Pink Tax is present because companies set their own prices, with no regulations. Through this research, I have found that Pink Tax negatively affects one’s quality of life. My research includes how Pink Tax places stereotypes on not only adults, but children as well. It also includes an explanation on how Pink Tax targets, including health taxes as an example. The last point in my research touches on the pay gap between women and men, showing how Pink Tax widens this gap.
Dr. Ollie Bogdon
mjones105@missouriwestern.edu
Other
Literature review
Byrd, Morgan
Importance of Sleep for our Mental and Physical Health
My presentation will explore the impact of sleep on both our physical and mental health.
Dr. Ollie Bogdon
mbyrd12@missoiriwestern.edu
Other
Literature review
Smith, Harmony
The impact genetically modified organisms have on the environment
My work describes the impact of genetically modified organisms on biodiversity and the environment. It includes how these organisms impact our quality of life, and how an increase in these organisms can be detrimental to human health.
Ollie Bogdon
hsmith29@missouriwestern.edu
Other
Research
Wells, Riley
Long term affects of CTE and concussions in athletes
The presentation will go in depth by using examples and explaining through the perspective of real life athletes who have suffered or have watched the suffering of other athletes. The general point is to inform the people watching and reading about the dangers of and cautions that need to be taken in response to CTE and concussions.
Dr Bogdon
rwells8@missouriwestern.edu
Other
Research
Lageschulte, Ben
Research about the effects of music on dementia
Dr. Bogdon
blageschulte@missouriwestern.edu
Other
Research
Grace, Livia
The Woes of Social Media & Mental Health
I plan to give an overview of how social media affects the mental health of those using it. I will cover social media’s effect on users’ self-esteem, peer pressure and trends, overconsumption, and quality of life. It will be a poster similar to an infographic to inform community members about this rising topic.
Dr. Bogdon
lgrace4@missouriwestern.edu
Other
Research
McGinness, Cali; Schmitten, Lillie
Elephant Poaching in Africa
This poster was done as a requirement for the Honors program. This research poster spreads awareness on the dangers of elephant poaching in Africa and the elephant illegal ivory trade. Specifically the illegal trade within Asian countries. The main goal is to help instill others to learn more and/or act on elephant extinction due to poaching. Information you can do to help and solutions for the future is also added.
Dr. Mark Mills
Cmcginness1@missouriwestern.edu
Other
Research
Jolley, Alex
Versed Voters
A website prototype where politian’s can express their ideas and agendas in order to inform voters on their choices on one easy to use site.
Ollie Bogdon
ajolley@missouriwestern.edu
Other
Research
Woods, Kinley (McKinley)
What Role does Genetics Play in Disease?
My work is going to be either a Slide show presentation or a poster board of how a human’s genetics can affect diseases and how illnesses are affected with your genes.
Professor: Dr. Ollie Bogdon
mwoods14@missouriwestern.edu
Other
Summary of an internship or practicum experience.
O’Dell, Quincy
Nursing Instructing
I am explaining the importance of nursing instructors in the healthcare world. It is a persuasion of how without the instructors in the world, your nurses and doctors would not be here today. I am planning to have demonstrations of basic vital signs, heimlich maneuver, and CPR to show how many people of the general public are informed onhow to save lives.
Dr. Bogdon
qodell1@missouriwestern.edu
Psychology
Research
Gilo, Wimach; Holsted, Averi; Mace, Allaina; Martin, Mareyah; Matthes, Justice
Triggers and Implications of Professors’ Teaching Anxiety for In-Person and Online Instruction
This research examines professors’ teaching anxiety related to teaching formats (in-person, online), stemming from preparation, student-teacher interactions, and university support. Professors (N = 73) rated teaching anxiety for online and in-person classes. ANOVA results indicated higher teaching anxiety for online classes, and teaching anxiety reduced with teaching experience.
Dr. Teddi Deka
wgilo@missouriwestern.edu
Psychology
Research
Dymek-Cervantes, Autumn; Lopez, Madison; McGuinn, Javerius; Miles, Trenton; Morrison, Lillian
Persuasion and Reactance: How to Get Your Political Message Across
Review of literature revealed parents transmit political values to children through a variety of persuasive means. When high pressure is applied, that increases the likelihood of reactance, which reduces persuasion. There is a different reactance level with different relationships due to a motivation to affiliate or differentiate from the communicator. We designed a 2 (high vs. low pressure) x 2 (parent vs. peer communicator) between subjects ANOVA experiment to test for the reactance and level of persuasion in young adult participants. Participants responded to one of four hypothetical scenarios and were asked how persuaded by their communicator, and how motivated they were to affiliate or differentiate from their communicator. We found parents using a high pressure tactic resulted in the same amount of reactance as low pressure. However, when peers used high pressure that tactic yielded more reactance than a low pressure approach. The results displayed the opposite of what we had hypothesized originally.
Kelly Henry
adymekcervantes@missouriwestern.edu
Psychology
Research
Milsap, Rylan; Froehlich, Nicoletta; Gregory, Taj
The Impact of Self-Confidence On Athletic Performance (Mock Study)
A mock study that looked at data representing two groups of Missouri Western State University athletes. This study was done to add to the existing experimental literature on this topic and to further clarify the relationship between self-confidence and athletic performance in a literature that has seemingly conflicting conclusions. The two groups were male baseball players, 26 of them, and male and female basketball players, 46 of them total. Each group was separated into experimental and control groups and given confidence questionnaires. The experimental group was given confidence-boosting interventions regularly over the course of a season while the control group continued regular practice during the same time period. At the end of the season, performance metrics were compared to the players previous season, and they were given another confidence questionnaire to compare to the one given at the beginning of the study. ANOVA tests were run on the data and showed that after interventions there was a significant positive impact on the majority of baseball performance metrics, but there was not a significant change in the basketball players performance metrics or self-confidence compared to the control group. Our data suggests that these interventions may be sport specific or that future studies should be done to test the importance of the baseline levels of confidence in participants.
Dr. Corey White
rmillsap1@missouriwestern.edu
Social Sciences & Humanities
Summary of an internship or practicum experience.
Smoot, Marissa
Severe weather game
Severe weather multiple path survival game that informs people of the dangers of severe weather and what to do in the situation
Dr. Bogdon
Msmoot1@missouriwestern.edu