College of Arts and Sciences - Bellarmine University
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BELLARMINE UNIVERSITYPresentsthe Ninth AnnualUNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH WEEKPOSTER SESSIONApril 14, 20091
ABOUT THE 2008-09 ARTIST IN RESIDENCEAngela RessThe Lansing School <strong>of</strong> Nursing <strong>and</strong> Health <strong>Sciences</strong> established the Artist-in-Residenceprogram in the 2002-2003 academic year. This program exemplifies the art<strong>and</strong> science <strong>of</strong> Nursing <strong>and</strong> Health <strong>Sciences</strong> through the eyes <strong>of</strong> the artist in music,artistic works, <strong>and</strong>/or drama. Endowed by Mrs. Arthur N. BecVar in 2006 in honor<strong>of</strong> her husb<strong>and</strong>, this program exemplifies the diverse <strong>and</strong> many creative <strong>and</strong> artistictalents <strong>of</strong> the BecVar family. Having earlier established an endowed nursing scholarshipfund during Art’s lifetime, with this endowment Jayne BecVar further connectsher desire to support <strong>and</strong> provide to our community caring, ethical graduates. It isour mutual desire that the students’ experiences in this program, as viewed throughthe arts, will give them new ways <strong>of</strong> thinking to inform their clinical practice, thehealth care pr<strong>of</strong>ession <strong>and</strong> patient contact <strong>and</strong> care.Artist StatementThe Arthur N. BecVar Artist-in-Residency at the Lansing School <strong>of</strong> Nursing <strong>and</strong>Health <strong>Sciences</strong> has been a tremendous opportunity <strong>and</strong> learning experience for me.Through speaking with students <strong>and</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>essors, <strong>and</strong> by attending nursing courses,I’ve become aware <strong>of</strong> the immense breadth <strong>of</strong> knowledge required <strong>of</strong> health pr<strong>of</strong>essionals.For this project, I’ve used digital media to layer images related to this educationalprocess. I asked students about their motivations for entering the health field<strong>and</strong> scanned materials related to their daily experiences, combining the scannedlayers in an attempt to emphasize the human dynamic essential to health care.Cover illustration by Angela Ress (BecVar Artist-in-Residence)2
BELLARMINE UNIVERSITYPresentsthe Ninth AnnualUNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH WEEKPOSTER SESSIONBiology................................................................................... 03Biochemistry <strong>and</strong> Molecular Biology.............................. 09Chemistry ............................................................................. 11Clinical Laboratory Science.............................................. 12Criminal Justice................................................................... 15Economics.............................................................................17Management Science......................................................... 23Mathematics......................................................................... 27Nursing.................................................................................. 29Physics................................................................................... 30Psychology............................................................................ 31Sociology.............................................................................. 34Communication................................................................... 36Brown Scholars................................................................... 45<strong>Bellarmine</strong> Emergency Response Team........................ 48English................................................................................... 49Special Thanks toDoris Tegart, Senior Vice President <strong>of</strong> Academic AffairsHunt Helm, Vice President <strong>of</strong> Communication <strong>and</strong> Public Affairs<strong>Bellarmine</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Arts</strong> & <strong>Sciences</strong>3
BIOLOGYPoster 1:How do the Various Bone Components AffectBending Fracture Strength?Anna Harvey / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David PortaBone is a composite material made up <strong>of</strong> organic (collagen) <strong>and</strong> inorganic (minerals<strong>and</strong> water) components. We wanted to study how the various components affectfracture strength. 41 ribs were dissected from 5 cows, 1 deer, <strong>and</strong> 1 pig. Using 4 ribsfrom the same animal would allow for testing <strong>of</strong> multiple parameters (1 control <strong>and</strong>3 treatments) on relatively uniform bone. Treatment groups included demineralization(HCl bath), dehydration (105°C for 24 hrs), or denaturation (600°C for 24hrs). Each rib was fixed in a vise <strong>and</strong> broken by a swing arm. The bending strength(N) was measured using an Omega DLC101-5k force transducer <strong>and</strong> Instrunet s<strong>of</strong>tware.Testing was captured on high speed video (up to 600 fps) <strong>and</strong> fracture patternswere analyzed. As expected, fracture force for the cow ribs was higher than thedeer or pig in all cases. Average fracture strength <strong>of</strong> the control cow ribs was 358 ±65 N. The average strength <strong>of</strong> the demineralized <strong>and</strong> dehydrated cow ribs were 236± 59 N <strong>and</strong> 199 ± 33 N respectively. Denatured bones failed at 157 ± 45 N, thus theloss <strong>of</strong> proteins seems to have the greatest affect on bending fracture strength.Poster 2:Are People Compromising Tooth Strengthfor a Whiter Smile?Becca Young / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David PortaTooth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dental service <strong>of</strong>fered- but doesit affect strength? Previous in vitro studies examined dentin strength <strong>and</strong> toothfracture toughness after bleaching. Our controlled study investigates the fracturestrength <strong>of</strong> in situ whole human teeth subject to impact. M<strong>and</strong>ibles from 5 cadaverswere sectioned into right <strong>and</strong> left sides that were assigned to either bleach or controlgroups (16 teeth each). Teeth were bleached using Crest© Whitestrips. Individualteeth were fractured by a transducer/bolt (Omega DLC101-5k) hammeredat low speed. Peak force (N) was recorded using Instrunet s<strong>of</strong>tware <strong>and</strong> testing wascaptured on high-speed video (up to 600 fps). There was no significant difference(p=0.463) between the fracture forces <strong>of</strong> the bleached teeth (83.7 +/-67.5N) versusthe controls (81.8 +/-43.1N). Three different fractures were observed: a) Root/crown fracture (n=10 bleached & 9 control teeth), b) Complete extraction (n=3bleached & 6 controls), <strong>and</strong> c) M<strong>and</strong>ibular fracture (n=3 bleached & 1 control). Todetermine if the bleaching affected mineral content (MC), teeth were ashed (12 hrs@ 900°C). Bleached teeth showed an average MC <strong>of</strong> 75.8% (+/-2.8%) while controlswere 77.6% (+/-4.0%). Our data do not support the hypothesis that bleachingdecreases fracture strength.4
Poster 3:How Do Lynx, Addax, <strong>and</strong> Goat Long Bones CompareTo Human Bones in Torsion Testing?Jennifer Daniel, Heather Sauer / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David PortaTorsional fracture force is an excellent measure <strong>of</strong> overall bone integrity. Limitedresearch on animals has been done in the past.Our study focuses on torsional forcesused to break 31 long bones dissected from an addax, goat, <strong>and</strong> lynx collected fromThe Louisville Zoo. The bones were stripped <strong>of</strong> all flesh <strong>and</strong> potted into metalboxes using Easy-Flo 60 polyurethane casting resin. The proximal end was laterallytorqued to failure by use <strong>of</strong> a h<strong>and</strong> wrench. Signals from an inline Torque Sensor(SenDev model 01190-123) were fed to a computer running InstruNet WorldWin32 s<strong>of</strong>tware. Fractures were captured on high speed video at up to 600 fps. Thetorsional fracture strength <strong>of</strong> long bones from the addax ranged from 53 Nm for themetatarsal to 174 Nm for the tibia/fibula. The weakest goat bone failed at 43 Nmwhile the right humerus broke at 191 Nm. The lynx bones were the weakest <strong>of</strong> thegroup. The ulna broke at 2 Nm while the femur broke at 24.2 Nm. All bones fracturedin the predicted spiral pattern seen in previous human long bone testing. Theaddax was found to be most comparable to human strength in this pilot study.Poster 4:Treatment <strong>of</strong> a Non-Small Cell Lung AdenocarcinomaCell Line With High Concentrations <strong>of</strong> theEnvironmental Estrogens Sodium Arsenate <strong>and</strong>Cadmium ChlorideRachel Amsh<strong>of</strong>f / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mary HuffThe environmental estrogens sodium arsenate <strong>and</strong> cadmium chloride are two heavymetals found in cigarette smoke. Recent studies have shown that nanomolar concentrations<strong>of</strong> sodium arsenate <strong>and</strong> cadmium chloride can induce cellular proliferation,thus taking on the role <strong>of</strong> carcinogens. In contrast, micromolar concentrations<strong>of</strong> these same carcinogens inhibit cell growth <strong>and</strong> promote apoptosis. Using cellproliferation assays, the purpose <strong>of</strong> this study was to determine the LD 50for bothsodium arsenate <strong>and</strong> cadmium chloride in the non-small adenocarcinoma lung epithelialcell line H1793. The LD 50for sodium arsenate <strong>and</strong> cadmium chloride after4 days <strong>of</strong> treatment was determined to be 48.8 µM <strong>and</strong> 1.62 µM, respectively. Immunoblotanalysis <strong>of</strong> the pro-apoptotic protein Bax indicated an increase in proteinlevels after one day <strong>of</strong> treatment with 40 µM sodium arsenate <strong>and</strong> 1 µM cadmiumchloride thus supporting a role for apoptosis in cell death.5
Poster 5:Identification <strong>of</strong> 5-Enolpyruvylshikimate-3-Phosphate Synthase in Various Grass SpeciesEric J. Gustafson / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David RobinsonThe objective <strong>of</strong> this experiment was to explore the possibility <strong>of</strong> glyphosate resistanceoccurring within six various species <strong>of</strong> grasses by cloning the gene forherbicide resistance <strong>and</strong> treating plants with glyphosate. The gene <strong>of</strong> interest was5-Enolpyruvylshikimate-3-Phosphate Synthase (EPSPS), which becomes mutatedcausing this gene to activate, thus causing herbicide resistance to glyphosate, theactive ingredient in Roundup. Six grass species: Alliance Rye (Dactylis glomerata),Wolfpack Tall Fescue (Euphorbia pulcherrima), Annual Rye (Lolium multiflorum),Creeping Red Fescue (Festuca rubra), Annual Bluegrass (Poa pratensis), <strong>and</strong> A1A4Bentgrass (Agrostis palustris), were used in this study. Primers were used to amplifythe EPSPS gene in each species <strong>and</strong> gels were run to check for presence, visualizationyielded positive results for the presence in each species. For cloning, an optimizationPCR was run to extract a DNA sample via gel extraction. PCR product wasthen cloned <strong>and</strong> plated onto LB agar plates containing Ampicillin, <strong>and</strong> incubated at37°C overnight. Colonies were plucked to subculture using LB broth with an antibiotic,<strong>and</strong> plasmids were purified. Purified plasmid products were then digested withan EcoRI digest <strong>and</strong> the b<strong>and</strong>s were observed by gel electrophoresis <strong>and</strong> a samplewas chosen with a potential clone. DNA quantification <strong>of</strong> the plasmid was run<strong>and</strong> the sample was diluted for sequencing at U <strong>of</strong> L Sequencing Core to comparethrough BLAST searches. Further plants will be tested for potential cloning <strong>and</strong>sequence comparing in the future.Poster 6:Further Characterization <strong>of</strong> a Ragweed PollencDNA LibraryMcKenna Ennes / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David RobinsonIt is estimated that approximately 10 percent <strong>of</strong> all Americans are allergic to thepollen produced by the plant commonly known as Giant Ragweed (Ambrosiatrifida L.). <strong>Bellarmine</strong> <strong>University</strong> has created a cDNA library <strong>of</strong> pollen from thisspecies. So far only 134 sequences have been published in the NCBI GenBank. Theobjectives <strong>of</strong> this research were to sequence 96 more genes <strong>and</strong> identify them <strong>and</strong>predict their function, metabolic role, <strong>and</strong> cellular location. Individual clones weregrown <strong>and</strong> plasmid was isolated, quantified, <strong>and</strong> digested with restriction enzyme topredict size. Sizes <strong>of</strong> the cDNA clones varied from approximately 250bp to 1500bp.Following sequencing, cDNA was examined using the Basic Local AlignmentSearch Tool (BLAST) to potentially identify the function <strong>of</strong> the gene product. Thisinformation will be useful in describing the biological <strong>and</strong> biochemical make up <strong>of</strong>this important health issue.6
Poster 7:Continued Studies <strong>of</strong> Ventral Eversible Gl<strong>and</strong> Function<strong>and</strong> Composition in Velvetbean Caterpillars,Anticarsia gemmatalis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)Elizabeth A. Shaw / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Anthony LentzThe function <strong>and</strong> composition <strong>of</strong> the ventral eversible gl<strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong> Anticarsia gemmataliscaterpillars (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) was studied. Larvae were reared in thelaboratory <strong>and</strong> fed a synthetic diet. The ventral eversible gl<strong>and</strong> was removed fromhalf <strong>of</strong> the A. gemmatalis specimens <strong>and</strong> the remaining larvae were subjected to asham dissection procedure, but the gl<strong>and</strong> was not removed. All larvae were allowedto feed as before <strong>and</strong> were weighed each day until pupation. Daily observations,including date <strong>of</strong> pupation <strong>and</strong> eclosion were recorded. Gl<strong>and</strong>s were also collected<strong>and</strong> extracted in dichloromethane to analyze volatile content by gas chromatographycoupled with mass spectrometry. No differences were found between (a) the weights<strong>of</strong> gl<strong>and</strong>-dissected <strong>and</strong> control larvae or (b) pupation cycles, thus no conclusionscould be drawn about the gl<strong>and</strong>’s function in relation to larval development. Resultsfrom GC/MS analysis suggest several possible organic compounds in the ventraleversible gl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong>/or gl<strong>and</strong> secretions.Poster 8:Do single nucleotide polymorphisms affectthe synthesis <strong>of</strong> Brain-Derived NeurotrophicFactor (BDNF) in lymphoblast cells frombipolar disorder patients?Mathew Galante / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David RobinsonAlterations in the expression <strong>of</strong> brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may beinvolved in the development <strong>of</strong> bipolar disorder. BDNF is a neurotrophin that actsas a signaling molecule responsible for dendritic growth, neuronal plasticity, <strong>and</strong>long-term potentiation. It also plays an important role in promoting the development,regeneration, survival, <strong>and</strong> maintenance <strong>of</strong> neuronal activity. The BDNFprotein is synthesized as a precursor, proBDNF, which is cleaved to the mature14-kDa form, mBDNF. Through interactions with the p75 NTR receptor, proBDNFelicits cellular apoptosis, while mBDNF, through the TrkB receptor, causes cellularproliferation. Previous genetic studies have shown single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs) within the BDNF gene may increase the risk <strong>of</strong> developing bipolar disorder.Studies have indicated abnormalities in ionic regulations play an important rolein the pathophysiology <strong>of</strong> bipolar disorder. The aim <strong>of</strong> this study was to examineintracellular BDNF expression <strong>and</strong> the functional effect <strong>of</strong> BDNF SNPs on ionicstress-induced apoptosis in bipolar disorder patients. Through a double-blindexperiment thirty cell lines from bipolar disorder patients were tested to determinewhether mutated BDNF altered expression, <strong>and</strong> how elevated intracellular sodiumconcentrations caused cellular apoptosis. It was determined that neither proBDNFnor mBDNF protein levels varied with the presence <strong>of</strong> SNPs believed to be associatedwith the risk for bipolar disorder.7
Poster 9:Induction <strong>of</strong> cell death in H1793 female lung cancercells using extracts from Ganoderma lucidumMelissa Pawley / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David RobinsonThere is a growing interest in the use <strong>of</strong> natural products for the treatment <strong>of</strong> cancer.For centuries, Chinese herbalists have used the Reishi mushroom [Ganodermalucidum (Curtis) P. Karst] as a remedy for diseases like hepatitis, bronchitis, <strong>and</strong>cancer. This study examined the effect <strong>of</strong> G. lucidum extract on the proliferation <strong>of</strong>lung cancer. Lung cancer cells grown in vitro were treated with 15 different concentrations<strong>of</strong> G. lucidum <strong>and</strong> monitored 24, 48, <strong>and</strong> 120 h following treatment. Overall,there was a dose-dependent, as well as time-dependent, decrease in cell proliferation.A possible mechanism for this decrease in proliferation could be signaled celldeath, or apoptosis. To determine if apoptosis was induced in the H1793 cells by G.lucidum, the cells were treated with increasing concentrations <strong>of</strong> the extract (0 to200 μg) <strong>and</strong> protein was collected at 24, 48, <strong>and</strong> 120 h. The anti-apoptotic protein(Bcl-2) <strong>and</strong> pro-apoptotic protein (Bax) were examined using Western Blot analysis.Bax was found to be up-regulated in a time- <strong>and</strong> dose-dependent manner, whileBcl-2 results were inconclusive. DNA laddering was performed using DNA collectedfrom cells that were treated with 200 μg <strong>of</strong> G. lucidum for 0, 24, <strong>and</strong> 48 h. DNAfragmentation was observed as early as 24 h, but, overall, results were inconclusivebecause <strong>of</strong> smearing seen at 0 h.Poster 10:Effect <strong>of</strong> triterpenoids isolated fromG. lucidum on lung cancerS<strong>and</strong>a Zolj / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David RobinsonGanoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst is a shelf fungus that has been used medicinallyin East Asia for centuries. Also called the Reishi mushroom, it is believed tobe an effective treatment for hepatitis, hypertension, high cholesterol <strong>and</strong> cancer.One <strong>of</strong> the objectives <strong>of</strong> this study was to examine the effect <strong>of</strong> Reishi mushroomon lung cancer <strong>and</strong> attempt to purify its bioactive components. We have previouslyshown that crude Reishi extracts significantly reduced proliferation in a female lungcancer cell line. However, the exact identities <strong>and</strong> mechanisms <strong>of</strong> the biochemicalcomponents responsible for its anti-proliferative effects have not been elucidated inthis cell-line. Published studies using other types <strong>of</strong> cancer have been contradictory.Some suggest that the active components are polysaccharides, while others point tothe triterpenoids. We have identified the triterpenoid component <strong>of</strong> Reishi, as thebioactive fraction for this lung cancer cell-line. This fraction was further analyzedby column chromatography followed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.Then RNA analysis will be used to determine up-regulation versus down-regulation<strong>of</strong> particular proteins involved in the apoptosis pathway. Detailed biochemicalcharacterization <strong>of</strong> this ancient herbal remedy could hold tremendous promise fortreatment <strong>of</strong> lung cancer.8
BIOCHEMISTRY &MOLECULAR BIOLOGYPoster 11:The efficiency <strong>of</strong> bi<strong>of</strong>uels: the production <strong>of</strong> ethanolfrom switchgrass <strong>and</strong> biodiesel from vegetable oilDanielle Robison / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Patrick HoltAn exciting field in science is the use <strong>of</strong> energy crops, such as switchgrass, to makerenewable fuels. The relevance <strong>of</strong> this process has both ecological <strong>and</strong> economicalbenefits. This study aims to produce ethanol from switchgrass <strong>and</strong> biodiesel fromvegetable oil. Using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), it wasdetermined that both fuels were successfully produced. The ethanol <strong>and</strong> biodieselwere analyzed using bomb calorimetry <strong>and</strong> infrared spectrometry <strong>and</strong> compared tovarious other fuels: kerosene, gasoline, <strong>and</strong> diesel. Using a bomb calorimeter, theenergy <strong>of</strong> combustion <strong>of</strong> the fuels was determined. The gaseous by-products producedfrom the combustion <strong>of</strong> the fuels were analyzed using infrared spectrometry.Poster 12:The Effect <strong>of</strong> Environmental Estrogens on theTranscription <strong>of</strong> Estrogen Responsive Genes inHuman Lung Adenocarcinoma CellsFranklyn Fenton / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mary HuffCigarette smoke contains numerous carcinogens, including the environmentalestrogens cadmium chloride <strong>and</strong> sodium arsenate, chemicals that mimic the effect<strong>of</strong> estrogen in living systems. In this research project, the effect <strong>of</strong> different concentrations<strong>of</strong> these environmental estrogens on transcriptional activation at EREs wasexamined. A human lung adenocarcinoma cell line was transfected with an EREdrivenluciferase reporter gene <strong>and</strong> then treated with ethanol, 10nM <strong>and</strong> 100nM estrogen,10nM <strong>and</strong> 100nM sodium arsenate, 100pM <strong>and</strong> 100nM cadmium chloridefor 24 hours. The results showed that like estrogen, cadmium chloride <strong>and</strong> sodiumarsenate stimulate transcription at EREs at lower concentrations while there was almostno effect at the higher concentration. The 10nM cadmium chloride treatment<strong>and</strong> the 100pM sodium arsenate treatments gave a 1.2-fold <strong>and</strong> 1.3-fold inductionin the transcription <strong>of</strong> the ERE-driven luciferase reporter gene, respectively. Currentstudies are under way to determine if cadmium chloride <strong>and</strong> sodium arsenateaffect the protein levels <strong>of</strong> estrogen receptor alpha <strong>and</strong> estrogen receptor beta usingimmunoblot analysis.9
Poster 13:Environmental Estrogens Cadmium Chloride<strong>and</strong> Sodium Arsenate <strong>and</strong> the EstrogenReceptor PathwayKelly Casey / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mary HuffThe heavy metals cadmium chloride <strong>and</strong> sodium arsenate may act as environmentalestrogens via the estrogen receptor pathway to stimulate cellular proliferation <strong>and</strong> tumorgrowth. Previous studies have shown that estrogen activates a signaling cascadeby inducing phosphorylation <strong>of</strong> the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK1/2).It is possible that MAPK1/2 induces phosphorylation <strong>of</strong> the estrogen receptor alpha(ERα) at Serine 118 increasing its activity as a transcriptional activator <strong>and</strong> stimulatingcellular proliferation. To determine if these environmental estrogens induce phosphorylation<strong>of</strong> ERα at Serine 118, human adenocarcinoma cell lines were treated witheither 100 nM sodium arsenate or cadmium chloride <strong>and</strong> cell lysates were preparedat 0, 5, 10, 15, 30, 60 <strong>and</strong> 90 minutes after treatment. Immunoblot analysis using anantibody raised to phosphorylated ERα suggests that phosphorylation <strong>of</strong> ERαmay beinduced at 30-45 minutes after treatment with sodium arsenate <strong>and</strong> cadmium chloride.Currently, these experiments are being repeated to verify these results.Poster 14:Determining the Effects <strong>of</strong> Juvenile Hormone IIIon Human Lung Adenocarcinoma cell line H1793Christina Carrillo / Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Anthony Lentz <strong>and</strong> Dr. Mary HuffHormones are essential to the function, growth, development, <strong>and</strong> regulation <strong>of</strong>biological systems. This study focused on the effects <strong>of</strong> juvenile hormone III whichis found primarily in insects. Juvenile hormone III is responsible for the regulation<strong>of</strong> many physiological processes that occur in insects such as, growth, development,<strong>and</strong> metamorphosis. To determine if juvenile hormone III has a physiological effecton human cell growth, the human lung adenocarcinoma cell lineH1793 was treatedwith varying concentrations <strong>of</strong> the hormone ranging from pM to uM concentrations.Cell proliferation was measured 24, 48 <strong>and</strong> 96 hours following hormone treatment.The results <strong>of</strong> this study showed little to no effect <strong>of</strong> juvenile hormone on cellproliferation after 24 hours. An increase in cell proliferation was observed in cellstreated with 100 pM <strong>and</strong> 100 nM juvenile hormone concentrations after 48 hours.Surprisingly, a slight decrease in cell growth after treatment was also noted at hormoneconcentrations above 100 uM. After 96 hours <strong>of</strong> treatment, proliferation wasobserved in all concentrations above 100 pM, yet a decrease in cell proliferation wasonly observed at 1 pM. These studies are being repeated to verify these observations.10
CHEMISTRYPoster 15:Developing a New Methodology for the Synthesis<strong>of</strong> Periodic Mesoporous OrganosilicasKenny McBride / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendy BurnsPeriodic mesoporous organosilicas have gained interest over the last decade. This is anew science but has already shown promise in terms <strong>of</strong> separation technology, nanoelectronics,<strong>and</strong> catalysis. The age <strong>of</strong> the science shows there has been little time forit to develop <strong>and</strong> become a well refined subject. The Burns research group has beenworking with the organic bridges <strong>and</strong> processes to ameliorate the framework composition<strong>and</strong> pore structure. Improving the methodology <strong>of</strong> the organosilicas will enablenew materials to be synthesized with fewer steps <strong>and</strong> give higher yields.Poster 16:Combustion energy <strong>and</strong> exhaust analysis<strong>of</strong> fossil fuelsJosh Tillery / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Patrick HoltGasoline, diesel, kerosene <strong>and</strong> ethanol were analyzed by using bomb calorimetry tostudy the combustion energy <strong>and</strong> exhaust output <strong>of</strong> each fuel. The original procedurefor bomb calorimetry proved to be problematic for fuels so a new procedurewas developed. Once the fuels were combusted, the vapors were then collected <strong>and</strong>analyzed in an infrared spectrometer to determine the identity <strong>of</strong> the product gasses<strong>and</strong> how much were produced by each fuel. The combustion energy was also calculated<strong>and</strong> then compared to the exhaust analysis.11
CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENCEPoster 17:Nitric Oxide Release after Exposure toMonochromatic Infrared EnergyKatherine Schaffer / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Karen GolemboskiMonochromatic infrared light is being utilized in therapeutic devices for the treatment<strong>of</strong> patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathies. Theoretically, this treatmentcauses the local release <strong>of</strong> nitric oxide from red blood cells. Nitric oxide, also known asendothelium-derived relaxing factor, causes a local vasodilation allowing the affectedarea increased perfusion. The release <strong>of</strong> nitric oxide from red blood cells, in vitro, afterexposure to monochromatic infrared light was evaluated using the Greiss Method.Poster 18:Quality in the Clinical Lab:A Guide to Instrument ValidationEdna Harry / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Karen GolemboskiLaboratory results are vital to a patient’s care because not every illness is straightforward,<strong>and</strong> so the accuracy <strong>and</strong> precision <strong>of</strong> the test is strictly monitored. There area variety <strong>of</strong> tests that are run in a laboratory, with a mix <strong>of</strong> automated <strong>and</strong> manualmethods used. It is vital for laboratorians to ensure the quality <strong>of</strong> these automatedmethods because error in the test system will result in an erroneous result. Tomake sure that tests are accurate from one method to another, they are compared,or validated, against each other. The Ortho ProVue is an instrument, or a type <strong>of</strong>method, which tests antigens, or unique identifiers, on red blood cells <strong>and</strong> is currentlybeing implemented at <strong>University</strong> Hospital’s blood bank to replace the manualtesting that is done in a test tube. This involved running 40 patient specimens inboth a manual gel method <strong>and</strong> test tube as well as on the ProVue. The results <strong>of</strong> theABO-Rh type <strong>and</strong> antibody screen for each method <strong>and</strong> patient were compared <strong>and</strong>the ProVue was shown to be a suitable substitute for testing.12
Poster 19:Diagnosis <strong>of</strong> T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic LeukemiaBrooke Meffert / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Karen GolemboskiA 10 year old Hispanic male presented to the emergency room (ER) with a onemonthhistory <strong>of</strong> abdominal pain, cough, <strong>and</strong> vomiting. He’s had a decreased appetite,night sweats, <strong>and</strong> increased bruising for 2 weeks. The patient was diagnosed(by flow cytometry) with T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). One <strong>of</strong>the most useful methods used in the diagnosis <strong>of</strong> leukemia is flow cytometry. Flowcytometry tests for antigens present on the cells, which determine whether theleukemia cells started in the T-cell or B-cell lineage, <strong>and</strong> the maturity <strong>of</strong> the cells.It is important to know whether the leukemia is B-cell or T-cell lineage because theprognosis <strong>and</strong> treatment is different for each type. The prognosis <strong>of</strong> patients withT-cell ALL is worse than B-cell ALL. About 85% <strong>of</strong> ALL is B-cell ALL, while only13-15% <strong>of</strong> childhood ALL is <strong>of</strong> T-cell origin. B-cell ALL is treated using protocolsthat are specifically designed for the unique features <strong>of</strong> this leukemia, <strong>and</strong> is treatedwith a 2-8 month course <strong>of</strong> intensive treatment. T-cell ALL requires intensive chemotherapy,<strong>and</strong> 2-2.5 years <strong>of</strong> continuation therapy.Poster 20:Septic Shock Resulting from Clostridiumdifficile colitisPhilip Glaser / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Karen GolemboskiClostridium difficile (C. diff ) is a bacterium that normally lives in the intestinaltract <strong>of</strong> most animals, including humans. C. diff is an increasing threat for hospitalizedpatients, as it is easily transmitted by contact. Recent evidence has shown thatthe number <strong>of</strong> diagnosed cases <strong>of</strong> C. diff infection from 134,361 cases reported in2000 up to 291,303 in 2005. The fatality rate <strong>of</strong> patients has also risen dramatically,growing from 1.2% in 2000 to 2.2% in 2005. Infections are usually associatedwith antibiotic use, where the normal bacteria found in a healthy intestine has beenaltered by the antibiotic. This allows the Clostridium to grow more freely as they areless susceptible to antibiotic killing than normal intestinal bacteria. Most infectionsare asymptomatic <strong>and</strong> are resolved before treatment is necessary. More severe infectionscan cause watery diarrhea <strong>and</strong> abdominal cramping due to a toxin which isreleased by the C. diff bacteria itself. Most severe <strong>and</strong> life threatening C. diff infectionscause pseudomembranous colitis or infectiouscolitis. This extremely dangerousform <strong>of</strong> infection is an inflammation <strong>of</strong> the large intestine, or colon, caused bythe heavy overgrowth <strong>of</strong> Clostridium <strong>and</strong> release <strong>of</strong> toxins that can cause extremepain, fever, intestinal hemorrhage, <strong>and</strong> shock. This is a case <strong>of</strong> a 62 year-old femalethat originally presented for surgery on recurring cervical cancer. After surgery toremove the cancer, she developed overwhelming sepsis from an apparent abdominalbleed caused by Clostridum difficile associated pseudomembranous colitis.13
Poster 21:Recruiting New CLS Students through FacebookKelly Britt / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Karen GolemboskiWith the current shortage <strong>of</strong> Clinical Laboratory Scientists both currently practicing<strong>and</strong> low numbers in programs such is the case here at <strong>Bellarmine</strong> <strong>University</strong>, anew way <strong>of</strong> recruiting for students <strong>and</strong> therefore future practitioners is desperatelyneeded. An online networking company only five years old may just be that newapproach. Obama used Facebook to help get elected <strong>and</strong> Dell is using Facebook torecruit for new employees. Therefore why can’t a university program use it to boosttheir prospective new students? The ultimate goal <strong>of</strong> the Facebook page would beto have “fans” <strong>of</strong> the page ranging from current students to current pr<strong>of</strong>essionals.Eventually we would hope to see an increase in the number <strong>of</strong> students applying forentry into <strong>Bellarmine</strong>’s CLS program, in part due to the easy access <strong>of</strong> informationthat they encountered on the Facebook page. Included on the page is informationabout <strong>Bellarmine</strong>’s CLS program, scholarship information <strong>and</strong> links to websites suchas Advance magazine. These links have topics including salaries <strong>and</strong> potential jobopportunities. There is also a discussion board where current students can introducethemselves <strong>and</strong> state their plans after graduation. This is helpful for potential studentsto see the faces <strong>and</strong> individual goals <strong>of</strong> current students <strong>and</strong> allow for communicationbetween one another. By setting up <strong>and</strong> keeping a Facebook page current <strong>and</strong> relevantto the new college student, we may be able to grow the numbers <strong>of</strong> laboratory pr<strong>of</strong>essionalsso urgently needed in hospitals here in Louisville <strong>and</strong> across the country.14
CRIMINAL JUSTICE STUDIESPoster 22:The Effect <strong>of</strong> Drugs on Performance at School <strong>and</strong>Work: The Prevalence <strong>of</strong> Illegal Drugs in School<strong>and</strong> WorkplaceJosh Anna / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> this study is to determine what college majors are more prone touse illegal drugs <strong>and</strong> analyze the differences in performance at school <strong>and</strong> workbetween those who use <strong>and</strong> those who do not. By identifying what college majorsare more likely to use illegal drugs, the researcher hoped to discover a difference inperformance at work <strong>and</strong> school between those who use illegal drugs vs. those whodo not. The research will hopefully answer the question <strong>of</strong>: Does the use <strong>of</strong> illegaldrugs affect the type <strong>of</strong> college major a person has or their performance in school<strong>and</strong> at work? The study was conducted by surveying 100 students at a small Midwesternliberal arts university to find out what college majors have a tendency to useillegal drugs <strong>and</strong> what the differences were in performance at work <strong>and</strong> school.Poster 23:An analysis <strong>of</strong> Sexual content in Popular Music:Jarrett Davis / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> this study is to analyze the amount <strong>of</strong> sexual content in the lyrics<strong>of</strong> popular American music. Further, the researcher will determine whether or notthere has been an increase or decrease in sexual content in American music overthe past four decades. For this experiment the researcher will examine the five mostpopular songs from the year 2005, 2000,1995,1990,1985 1980, 1975, 1970, 1965<strong>and</strong> 1960. The five most popular songs from these respective years will come fromthe Billboard hot 100, which is frequently used as the st<strong>and</strong>ard measure for rankingsongs in the United States. This study was conducted by using the grounded theory<strong>and</strong> constant comparative technique.15
Poster 24:Jail Staff <strong>and</strong> the Experience <strong>of</strong> Work Stress<strong>and</strong> Emotional Dissonance: The Role <strong>of</strong>Emotional <strong>and</strong> Psychological InfluencesStephen House / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> this study is to determine if the research done by Higgins on correctionstaff in prisons applies to correctional staff that work in jails <strong>and</strong> have directcontact with inmates. The present study will examine a board range <strong>of</strong> potentialpredictors <strong>of</strong> job stress. It will primarily focus on if <strong>and</strong> how experience <strong>of</strong> emotionaldissonance may affect the experience <strong>of</strong> work stress. The study also examinesthe negative affect <strong>of</strong> working in correction. Role conflict that may be experienced,evaluation <strong>of</strong> job performance <strong>and</strong> whether or not the workers feel they have taskcontrol are also examined.Poster 25:Romantic Relationships in the WorkplaceLeigha Corbett / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> this research was to look at romantic relationships in the confines <strong>of</strong>a person’s workplace. My goal is to find out how <strong>of</strong>ten these relationships happen,the rules that an employer has in order to keep such relationships from going on, aswell as the consequences <strong>of</strong> this behavior to the party involved as well as the companyfor which they work. A convenience sample was given to students at a smallprivate mid-western university to the students in order to form the results.Poster 26:Different Attitudes Concerning theJustification <strong>of</strong> AbortionShelby Pile / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> the study was to examine the different attitudes towards abortionunder various circumstances. These circumstances include abortion as the result<strong>of</strong> rape, because <strong>of</strong> serious defects <strong>of</strong> the child, <strong>and</strong> endangerment to the mother’shealth. The study will then examine different demographics that affect these attitudes.The study will use the General Social Survey to conduct the research.16
ECONOMICSPoster 27:Decreasing Inequality: from Local to GlobalSergio Victor / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondThis paper will add to the long discussion <strong>of</strong> the impacts <strong>of</strong> globalization on incomeinequality <strong>and</strong> poverty. Using a global inequality dataset from the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong>Texas Inequality Project <strong>and</strong> United Nations Industrial Development Organization(UTIP-UNIDO) <strong>and</strong> statistical data on variables such as tariffs <strong>and</strong> trade barriers,countries export <strong>and</strong> import dependency, labor skills, workers rights, IMF loans,<strong>and</strong> technological innovations I will attempt to develop a model to show how theyimpact income inequality. I believe the results will show that in the long-run thepolicies in place for global economic integration that favors immensely the wealthycounties have an overall negative impact on inequality because it makes the LDCslargely dependent on an unsustainable relationship <strong>of</strong> development amongst whichlimits opportunity for true development in the LDCs.Poster 28:How come you have more than I do?Income Inequality in Latin America<strong>and</strong> the CaribbeanAngelica Sanchez / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondEconomic growth does not always mean income equality. Most countries in LatinAmerica <strong>and</strong> the Caribbean are considered to be lower-middle to upper-middleincome economies <strong>and</strong> yet the income inequality found in this region is the highestin the world <strong>and</strong> most historically persistent. Given such inequality, reenergizedpolitical <strong>and</strong> social movements have been gaining momentum in this region <strong>and</strong>their consequences will surely be felt in the upcoming decades. I argue that it is infact income inequality, aggravated by institutional failure, which is the single mostthreatening factor to the stability <strong>of</strong> these countries. However, it is only by trulyunderst<strong>and</strong>ing the causes <strong>of</strong> such inequality that a path to reform can be traced. Inwhich case, the question that must continue to be asked is: Why Latin America <strong>and</strong>the Caribbean? What is the relationship between a highly patriarchal, institutionallychallenged <strong>and</strong> yet highly industrialized region <strong>and</strong> income inequality? Thisresearch attempts to further explore the correlation between independent variablessuch as female literacy rate, corruption, government spending, FDI <strong>and</strong> the dependentvariable <strong>of</strong> income inequality, as measured by the Gini index.17
Poster 29:Gender Inequality <strong>and</strong> Economic GrowthLauren Coleman / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondFrom this research I hope to explain the effect <strong>of</strong> gender inequality in lesser developednations <strong>and</strong> its effect on the economic growth <strong>of</strong> various countries throughoutAfrica <strong>and</strong> Asia. Each country’s historic <strong>and</strong> current religions <strong>and</strong> political reignswill be examined to help give a basis for the gender inequality that currently exists.Population, birth rate, death rate, GDP, primary school enrollment <strong>of</strong> women,number <strong>of</strong> businesses ran by women, number <strong>of</strong> women in government, anti-discriminationlaws, protective legislation, human capital, maternity leave, percentage<strong>of</strong> women in labor force, <strong>and</strong> level <strong>of</strong> development will serve as the X-variables <strong>and</strong>will be ran as a linear regression model to examine their impact on the countriesGDP per capita.Poster 30:Effects <strong>of</strong> Education in Less-developed CountriesLaura Stamm / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondThis paper looks into the education <strong>of</strong> the labor force in Jamaica. There exist differenttheories on the subsidization <strong>of</strong> education by the government. Should primaryor secondary school be subsidized? If Jamaica subsidizes primary education <strong>and</strong> requiresthat all children complete primary school, how would this affect the development<strong>of</strong> the country? The model developed in this paper also considers the number<strong>of</strong> private institutions, child mortality, <strong>and</strong> the education <strong>of</strong> women as possiblefactors that affect the development <strong>of</strong> Jamaica measured by its GDP. Human capitalis considered to be more productive than physical capital because <strong>of</strong> the knowledge<strong>and</strong> innovation. A strong base <strong>of</strong> human capital is important to the development <strong>of</strong>a country because an educated labor force leads to more skilled workers <strong>and</strong> a higherwage rate for those skilled workers. Building up the human capital will help thecountry develop quicker. The economic returns to education will, in theory, reducepoverty <strong>and</strong> increase income.Poster 31:The Effects Civil War Has on Gross Domestic ProductJustin Welply / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondTo what effect does Civil War inhibit economic growth? This paper will demonstratethe effects Civil War have on nations in their attempt to rebuild their torneconomy <strong>and</strong> country. In this paper, I use Gross Domestic Product as the dependantvariable in determining the level <strong>of</strong> significance Civil War has on a country.The variables, I think, that are most significant in my attempt are duration <strong>of</strong> war,location, number <strong>of</strong> casualties, form <strong>of</strong> government, natural resources <strong>and</strong> financialinstitutions. In addition, I will use education <strong>and</strong> industry as independent variables.I will use data from the last 50 years to access my hypothesis that Civil War has anegative effect on GDP by reductions in the labor force, damages to infrastructure,depletion <strong>of</strong> capital <strong>and</strong> substantial reductions <strong>of</strong> investment due to uncertainty ininflation, interest rates <strong>and</strong> the overall state <strong>of</strong> the economy.18
Poster 32:Effects <strong>of</strong> MalnutritionElizabeth Schaefer / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondIt is well recognized that low levels <strong>of</strong> health <strong>and</strong> nutrition have been prominentfeatures in developing countries. I explore the possibility that malnutrition is theroot cause <strong>of</strong> low economic growth within a nation-state. I use two steps to showthis relationship: first I show the relationship <strong>of</strong> the nutrition level with labor productivity,technological progress, immigration level, disability, life expectancy, <strong>and</strong>the mortality rate, second I show the relationship between these factors to per capitaincome, which is a measurement for economic development.Poster 33:Water Scarcity <strong>and</strong> Conflict: Examiningthe Relationship through Social Indicatorsin Southern AfricaClare-Mai Nguyen / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondHistorically, there have been few violent conflicts directly incited by transboundarywater issues; but in regions that face water scarcity <strong>and</strong>/or lack the capacity toadequately address it, shared water is an unmistakable component in the relationsamong countries. But the causal argument between water <strong>and</strong> conflict is not simple:Homer-Dixon <strong>and</strong> Percival assert that environmental scarcity acts mainly by generatingsocial effects, such as poverty <strong>and</strong> migration, which analysts <strong>of</strong>ten interpretas conflicts’ immediate causes. Thus, this paper seeks to measure the potential forconflict by focusing on the relationship between water stress <strong>and</strong> these social effects,particularly in the arid <strong>and</strong> developing region <strong>of</strong> southern Africa, where the ZambeziRiver system exists as the common water resource for eight countries. In thisrelationship, inadequate <strong>and</strong> unequal access to water adversely affects the livelihoods,health, <strong>and</strong> vulnerability <strong>of</strong> the people. These problems – together with theeconomic stagnation <strong>and</strong> political rivalries that exist in southern Africa – raise levels<strong>of</strong> social instability <strong>and</strong> therefore the potential for conflict.19
Poster 34:Alleviating Urban PovertyDhea Villar / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondUrban poverty is one <strong>of</strong> the major problems that most developing countries havebeen tackling for many years now. To some extent, urban poverty can be viewedas an unwanted yet indispensable consequence <strong>of</strong> development. Industrialization,which is a key for development, necessitates rural-urban migration. As more peoplefrom rural area move to the city for a better life, the rapid growth <strong>of</strong> population isnot sustainable. Nevertheless, the graveness <strong>of</strong> this problem dem<strong>and</strong>s serious attentionfrom policy makers. While eliminating poverty entirely may be impossible,there might be a way to lessen the severity <strong>of</strong> this problem. This paper examinesdifferent policy that government can implement to alleviate urban poverty. Theseinclude improving education, reducing unemployment, developmental benefits oraid, <strong>and</strong> improving governance. I will be using econometric model with x-variables:literacy rate, unemployment rate, <strong>of</strong>ficial development assistance, <strong>and</strong> public policies<strong>and</strong> institution (include economic management, structural policies, policies forsocial inclusion <strong>and</strong> equity, <strong>and</strong> public sector management <strong>and</strong> institutions) <strong>and</strong> they-variable, the urban population below natural poverty line. It is the hope <strong>of</strong> this researchto establish a better underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> the extent on which these independentfactors contribute in reducing poverty.Poster 35:Learning from the Celtic Tiger: Can There Be MoreMiracle Workers?C. Robert Vocke / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondUsing Irel<strong>and</strong>’s Miracle as an example <strong>of</strong> rapid growth for economy, I will useseveral <strong>of</strong> the factors for their development <strong>and</strong> compare those in the countries<strong>of</strong> Bahamas, Malawi, <strong>and</strong> Malaysia to find if they are key to development for allcountries. The factors I will analyze from Irel<strong>and</strong>’s example <strong>of</strong> economic growth inthe past 30 years will include their lowering <strong>of</strong> tax rates, namely for the corporatesector, which provided incentives for investors to enter the economy. Populationgrowth, higher investment in education, a drop in the unemployment rate, <strong>and</strong> newtechnical colleges all gave way to having a strong labor force to produce new products<strong>and</strong> raise GDP for Irel<strong>and</strong>. Even though it can be argued that each country islikely to have its own model <strong>of</strong> efficient growth, what Irel<strong>and</strong>’s example <strong>of</strong>fers is alist <strong>of</strong> variables to begin testing a model for other economies. Though economiesdiffer in several fundamental policies, I have a strong belief that factors <strong>of</strong> educationinvestment <strong>and</strong> population growth are plausible factors for growth everywhere.This research will build <strong>of</strong>f a qualitative study done which asked the same question<strong>of</strong> if the Irish model would work for the regions <strong>of</strong> East <strong>and</strong> Central Europe. Myresearch will have quantitative evidence that the model works for other countries,or perhaps just some.20
Poster 36:Tourism in the Indonesia-Malaysia-SingaporeGrowth TriangleChad Bowling / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondDeveloping countries are constantly looking for a way to boost their economies.In the Asian countries <strong>of</strong> Indonesia, Malaysia, <strong>and</strong> Singapore, a growth trianglewas formed to spur the development in the region. To do this, these countries haveemphasized the tourism sector <strong>of</strong> their economies. In this paper, the growth <strong>of</strong> thesecountries is analyzed through various economic variables <strong>and</strong> is compared to those<strong>of</strong> other developing countries. The concept <strong>of</strong> a growth triangle is examined (usingeconometric analysis) to determine if countries who are bound within a growthtriangle reveal faster development than those countries that are independent. Usingthe gross domestic product as the y-variable, data from both before <strong>and</strong> during thedevelopment <strong>of</strong> the Indonesia-Malaysia-Singapore Growth Triangle (IMS-GT) isused in the paper to forecast the future development <strong>of</strong> these countries, as well ascountries that lack a focus on a specific area such as tourism. Finally, the rate <strong>of</strong>growth <strong>of</strong> these <strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong> other developing countries is compared to current economicpowers’ data both now <strong>and</strong> from the time they were developing to where they aretoday. Using future forecasts, this analysis will show that the countries <strong>of</strong> the IMS-GT will one day be among the elite economies <strong>of</strong> the world.Poster 37:The Education <strong>of</strong> Women: Impact in LesserDeveloped CountriesKatie O’Hara / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondThis study examines the effect that the education <strong>of</strong> women has on economicdevelopment. With growth in GDP per capita <strong>and</strong> infant mortality rates as thedependant variable <strong>of</strong> this research it will be observed the impact that the female enrollmentin primary education, female enrollment in secondary education, availablehealth instruction, available family planning programs <strong>and</strong> female literacy rate hason these two variables separately. Comparing developed <strong>and</strong> lesser developed countriesgives more insight into the influence the education <strong>of</strong> women has for a country.Using an econometric stochastic model to examine empirical results along with theaid <strong>of</strong> previous studies, the benefits <strong>of</strong> female education for economic developmentare identified <strong>and</strong> explained. The spread <strong>of</strong> schooling in lesser developed countries isbecoming a pressing issue, but the education gender-gap may be hindering the speed<strong>and</strong> total growth in these countries. Uncovering such information can be helpful forlesser developed countries in creating public policies which target an increase in theeducation <strong>of</strong> women to enhance their own development.21
Poster 38:The effects <strong>of</strong> FDI on LDC economic growthNicolas Janssen-Bernard / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Frank RaymondAs a result <strong>of</strong> studying some <strong>of</strong> the many underlying issues restraining Least DevelopedCountries (LDC) from achieving developed status, I explore the effects<strong>of</strong> Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on LDC development. This encompasses theinfluences <strong>and</strong> repercussions <strong>of</strong> such points as income distribution, aggregate outputgrowth, export levels, domestic capital growth <strong>and</strong> education level. Seeing as FDI isthought to be a notable factor to development, it is becoming a increasingly potentfield <strong>of</strong> study as foreign capital infusion continue to increase to <strong>and</strong> from LDCs.Considered pivotal by some <strong>and</strong> destabilizing by others, I will be seeking to shedsome light on its effectiveness <strong>and</strong> influence on LDC economic growth. Moreover Iwill be looking to establish a positive relationship between FDI <strong>and</strong> growth, identifythe specific factors which promote as well as counteract it, <strong>and</strong> explore certainrequirements thought to restrict it.22
MANAGEMENT SCIENCEFaculty Sponsor for All Management Science Posters: Dr. Joan Combs DursoPoster 39:Beer Brewing <strong>and</strong> Bottling Process at Browning’sBrewery <strong>and</strong> RestaurantCraig Spenlau, Dan PetersmithBrowning’s Brewery <strong>and</strong> Restaurant in Louisville, Kentucky brews beer for distributionto local restaurants <strong>and</strong> stores. Our project studied the brewing process frommixing the ingredients to bottling the beer. Our methodology included touring thebrewery, observing the brewing process, interviewing the brewers, <strong>and</strong> analyzing thedata generated in the process.Poster 40:Controlling Quality at Ford’s Kentucky Truck PlantAllyson Burkot, Dan Petrik, Sarah GreenwellOur project studied the quality control inspection process <strong>of</strong> Ford’s Kentucky TruckPlant in Louisville. Ford has outsourced their quality control division to Manufacturer’sQuality Representative (MQR). Our methods <strong>of</strong> study included a plant tourwhile observing the process, interviewing MQR personnel, <strong>and</strong> analyzing data that wereceived from MQR regarding the process <strong>of</strong> quality control inspection <strong>of</strong> Ford Trucks.Poster 41:Process Study <strong>of</strong> Stoneware Production/Firingat Hadley PotteryDeidre M. DurbinJerry Day <strong>and</strong> Lynnette Faulkenberg co-manage <strong>and</strong> run Hadley Pottery in Louisville,KY. My project studied the stoneware production <strong>and</strong> firing process. My methodologyincluded touring the plant, observing <strong>and</strong> photographing the production process,interviewing employees, <strong>and</strong> analyzing data generated during the process.Poster 42:Cylicron Engineered Cylinders ProcessBrice Westhusing, Matt Raque, Kyle LeachCylicron Engineered Cylinders is a manufacturer located in Jeffersonville, Indianathat makes large industrial cylinders used in printing presses. Our project studiedthe process <strong>of</strong> producing cylinders for Rotogravure <strong>and</strong> Flexographic presses. Ourmethodology included touring the plant <strong>and</strong> observing the process, interviewingCylicron employees, <strong>and</strong> analyzing data generated during the process.23
Poster 43:Essroc Cement Company Process StudyMichelle Gleason, Cassi Dalrymple, Andrew Parks, Tim DearloveEssroc Cement Company is an international corporation that specializes in the production<strong>of</strong> cement. We studied the cement making process at their Speed, Indianaplant. Our methodology included touring the plant, interviewing the productionengineer, <strong>and</strong> analyzing data generated in the process.Poster 44:Delta Sigma Pi Chapter EfficiencyMonitoring ProcessJenna Sympson, Krystle Maycock, Kristin SmithDelta Sigma Pi is an international pr<strong>of</strong>essional business fraternity with chapters at over200 universities. Our project evaluated the process used by DSP’s Central Office tomonitor each chapter’s efficiency. Our methodology included analyzing Chapter EfficiencyIndex data, interviewing Central Office staff <strong>and</strong> collegiate <strong>of</strong>ficers from severalchapters, <strong>and</strong> observing a chapter submitting their Chapter Efficiency forms.Poster 45:T-Shirt Screen Printing ProcessMatt Cannady, Jen DeChellis, Nicholas GiacolettoMany companies specialize in screenprinting, banners, sign-work, <strong>and</strong> design inLouisville, Kentucky. We observed the screen printing <strong>of</strong> t-shirts by both a smaller<strong>and</strong> larger company. Our methodology included observing screen printing processat both companies, interviewing their employees <strong>and</strong> analyzing the data generated intheir process.Poster 46:Process Study <strong>of</strong> Producing Old ForesterBourbon at Brown-FormanAlyson Pacheco & Am<strong>and</strong>a GerberBrown-Forman in Louisville, KY produces 35 br<strong>and</strong>s <strong>of</strong> spirits <strong>and</strong> wines aroundthe world, including Old Forester Bourbon. Our project studied the distilling <strong>and</strong>bottling process used by Brown-Forman to produce Old Forester Bourbon. Ourmethods include observing the steps <strong>of</strong> distilling, the process <strong>of</strong> bottling, interviewingBrown-Forman employees, <strong>and</strong> analyzing data generated from the process.24
Poster 47:Bath & Body Works ProductDemonstration ProcessJessica Henderson Ellen Amlung Chelsea Lilly Rachael SmithBath & Body Works is a retail chain specializing in body care products. Store employeesuse these products in h<strong>and</strong> massages to increase product sales; we studiedthis process. Our methods included observing the h<strong>and</strong> massages, interviewing Bath& Body Works managers at a store in Louisville, Kentucky, <strong>and</strong> analyzing sales datagenerated in the process.Poster 48:Kaging Process at BASFAndrew Fust, Kyle TroutmanBASF, the world’s largest chemical producer, has a manufacturing plant in Louisville,KY that produces colorants for paints, plastics, <strong>and</strong> inks. Our group studied the process<strong>of</strong> packaging colorants at the Louisville plant. Our methodology included plantvisits, data analysis, observation, <strong>and</strong> interviews.Poster 49:United Parcel Service Sorting ProcessKyle Harkins, Ryan Spoelker, Chris Wiedmar, James HaydenUnited Parcel Service: Centennial Ground Hub, based in Louisville, Kentucky,h<strong>and</strong>les 190,000 packages per day. The project studied the process <strong>of</strong> package sortinggoing to the west coast in the U.S. Our methodology included interviewingmanagers, touring the facility, <strong>and</strong> analyzing the data gathered during the process.Poster 50:Collateral Loan Making at Cash AmericaChristian Schafer, Matt BashamCash America International is a pawn shop that <strong>of</strong>fers collateral loans <strong>and</strong> financial servicessuch as check cashing <strong>and</strong> pay-day advances. Our project studied the process usedto make collateral loans. Our methodology included observing the process, interviewingmanagers, examining documents, <strong>and</strong> analyzing data generated in the process.25
Poster 51:Kroger Self-Checkout ProcessAshley Schmitt, Evelin Valibayova, Alisha KennedyMr. Perkins manages the Buechel By-Pass Kroger grocery store in Louisville, Kentucky.Our project studied the process <strong>of</strong> customer self-checkout in the express lanes.The methodology included observing <strong>and</strong> timing the checkout lane, interviewingemployees, <strong>and</strong> analyzing the data generated.Poster 52:EmbroidME Screen-Printing <strong>of</strong> T-Shirts ProcessAlex Green, Collin Fitzsimmons, Jim Galmiche, Caryn SchoeffEmbroidMe, a privately owned business in St. Matthews, specializes in customscreen-printing <strong>of</strong> t-shirts. This project studied their process <strong>of</strong> screen-printingt-shirts for customers. Our methodology included interviewing employees, touringthe facility, <strong>and</strong> analyzing data.Poster 53:Huber’s Wine Making ProcessCaitlin Rose, Miguel Gonzalez, Melissa HylesHuber’s Orchard <strong>and</strong> Winery is located in Starlight, Indiana. They are home to Indiana’sfirst distillery – The Starlight Distillery. Our project studied the process <strong>of</strong> winemaking. Our methodology included touring the distillery, interviewing the manager,<strong>and</strong> analyzing the data collected during the process.26
MATHEMATICSPoster 54:Basic Model for Life InsuranceBr<strong>and</strong>on Jones / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Anne RaymondThe average consumer is <strong>of</strong>ten unaware <strong>of</strong> what goes into the basic development <strong>of</strong>a life insurance model that eventually determines the cost <strong>of</strong> acquiring insurance.Life insurance models make use <strong>of</strong> mathematical formulas that compute one’s lifeexpectancy, which is the key element in establishing premiums for insurance. Thisresearch project illustrates the steps involved in the development <strong>of</strong> a life insurancemodel beginning with a historic look at first attempts to compute life expectancy. Inorder to illustrate current variables that shape a life expectancy formula, a description<strong>of</strong> a “typical” survey used when one applies for life insurance is provided alongwith a discussion <strong>of</strong> the effects that various factors gathered in the survey have onthe computation <strong>of</strong> an individual’s life expectancy. The factors examined withinthis research were selected based on their importance in affecting life expectancy;factors that have no affect on life expectancy are not included. Ultimately, a viablemodel <strong>of</strong> life insurance cost is presented <strong>and</strong> explained in light <strong>of</strong> the factors that areconsidered most influential to one’s life expectancy.Poster 55:Using Probability to Predict Locations<strong>of</strong> Lost <strong>and</strong> Missing PersonsCarl Peterson / Faculty Sponsor: Pr<strong>of</strong>. Adam MolnarL<strong>and</strong>-based search-<strong>and</strong>-rescue (SAR) operations have begun integrating statistical<strong>and</strong> probabilistic analysis into decisions about where to search. Unlike its counterpart,sea-based SAR, the most likely location <strong>of</strong> a missing person cannot be determinedsimply by calculating drift <strong>and</strong> wind velocity. In this research, the mathematicsbehind SAR operations are examined <strong>and</strong> models that predict the most likelylocations <strong>of</strong> missing persons given certain circumstances are proposed.27
Poster 56:The Rhythm <strong>of</strong> Latin DanceDavid Royer / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Anne RaymondLatin music centers around the Cuban Clave. If one observes the members <strong>of</strong> aLatin b<strong>and</strong> before the start <strong>of</strong> a song, one can see a certain b<strong>and</strong> member startingthe b<strong>and</strong> by clapping the rhythm <strong>of</strong> the clave. The rest <strong>of</strong> the b<strong>and</strong> joins in, centeringtheir music around this rhythm. This research employs mathematical analysisto examine the clave rhythm. While the clave rhythm is found in many types <strong>of</strong>music, this research looks at its use in the Latin dances <strong>of</strong> Salsa, Cha Cha, <strong>and</strong>Mambo. In particular, this research will portray the evolution <strong>of</strong> these Latin dances<strong>and</strong> attempts to analyze the rhythmic differences <strong>and</strong> connections between eachstyle <strong>of</strong> dance to the music.Poster 57:Mathematical Modeling in <strong>College</strong> FootballChad Bowling / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Anne Raymond<strong>College</strong> football in the United States has been crowning a champion since 1902. In1998, the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) was introduced as a method <strong>of</strong> rankingteams in the sport. This process has been criticized regularly, particularly thecomputer ranking process. In order to make the process more appealing, I havedeveloped a new system using mathematical modeling. An analysis <strong>of</strong> the statisticalmodels behind the current six computer rankings has informed my own procedure.By combining important elements <strong>of</strong> these models with a new array <strong>of</strong> variable, Iwas able to formulate an arrangement that will change the game. Simulations <strong>of</strong> thenew model using available data have resulted in outcomes different from those madeby the BCS, but these outcomes may be considered more appropriate by collegefootball enthusiasts. Consequently, with my model, the process for ranking teams isnow easier to underst<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> more appealing to the fans <strong>of</strong> the game.28
NURSINGPoster 58:Evidence-Based Practice in AestheticPlastic SurgerySherri Ryan / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Moran FitzgeraldThe American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery <strong>and</strong> the American Society<strong>of</strong> Plastic Surgical Nurses are dedicated to the safe practice <strong>of</strong> the art <strong>and</strong> science<strong>of</strong> plastic surgery. This Capstone Nursing Project will focus on Evidence BasedPractices in the field <strong>of</strong> Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. The project entails policies<strong>and</strong> procedures for laser surgery in an outpatient private practice.29
PHYSICSPoster 59:Theoretical Mass Predictions <strong>of</strong> Double <strong>and</strong> TripleCharmed <strong>and</strong> Beauty Baryons Using the<strong>Bellarmine</strong>-Baryon-Mass-ModelBen Draper, Yan Chen, Richard Jelsma, Ian Tracey, Rachel KeyserFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Akhtar Mahmood <strong>and</strong> Dr. Syed AhmadAt <strong>Bellarmine</strong> <strong>University</strong> we have developed a Baryon Mass Model using the quarkgluonmass-energy relationship to predict the masses <strong>of</strong> the undiscovered doublecharmed <strong>and</strong> the beauty baryons. We will present the predicted masses <strong>of</strong> the sixdouble- <strong>and</strong> one triple charmed baryons <strong>and</strong> the thirty-five ground-state beautybaryons with J p <strong>of</strong> 1/2 + <strong>and</strong> 3/2 + . Charmed <strong>and</strong> Beauty Baryons for a very shorttimes populated the early universe during the hadron era, less than a microsecondafter the Big Bang. Baryon spectroscopy containing charmed <strong>and</strong> beauty quarks arevery important for underst<strong>and</strong>ing the dynamics <strong>of</strong> quark <strong>and</strong> gluon interactions inthe early universe.Poster 60:Measurement <strong>of</strong> Muon Flux <strong>and</strong> Muon LifetimeUsing the <strong>Bellarmine</strong> Cosmic Ray Muon Detector.Yan Chen, Ben Draper, Richard Jelsma, Ian Tracey, Rachel KeyserFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Akhtar Mahmood <strong>and</strong> Dr. Syed AhmadIn order to measure the muon flux <strong>and</strong> the muon lifetime, experiments wereconducted at <strong>Bellarmine</strong> <strong>University</strong> using a high resolution microprocessor-basedCosmic Ray Muon Detector. The muon detector consisted <strong>of</strong> a cylindrical columncontaining scintillator pads, a photomultiplier tube, <strong>and</strong> a high voltage powersource. These were connected to an external data acquisition module via a BNCcable. The detector’s data was fed to a laptop PC via a USB cable which ran themuon data acquisition s<strong>of</strong>tware. This s<strong>of</strong>tware was able to display the muon hits,the number <strong>of</strong> muon decay events <strong>and</strong> the muon decay rate. Several experimentalruns were conducted to determine the mean muon flux rate <strong>and</strong> the average muondecay rate for the Louisville area. In our final experimental run, the muon lifetimewas also measured.30
PSYCHOLOGYFaculty Sponsor for All Psychology Posters: Dr. Thomas WilsonPoster 61:The Effect <strong>of</strong> a Stressful Rehearsal Preventiontask on Performance <strong>and</strong> MemoryMolly C<strong>of</strong>feyCurrent economic <strong>and</strong> business factors have made it essential for the majority <strong>of</strong>workers to multitask assignments <strong>and</strong> duties while maintaining high levels <strong>of</strong> performance.However, current research indicates that work tasks that provide rehearsalprevention have a negative effect on performance <strong>and</strong> memory. To examine this idea,32 introductory psychology students were r<strong>and</strong>omly assigned into four experimentalgroups <strong>and</strong> given a st<strong>and</strong>ard list <strong>of</strong> words to memorize. Next, each group completeda rehearsal prevention task designed to mimic common, stressful experience in theworkplace environment, such as an expectation, time pressure or negative evaluationtask. Results supporting the hypothesis indicate that stressful rehearsal preventiontasks result in decreased performance on a free recall <strong>of</strong> the word list.Poster 62:The Effect <strong>of</strong> Physical Appearance on PredictedPr<strong>of</strong>essional SuccessBridget CromienThis study investigates a phenomenon known as the halo effect. This is when theperception <strong>of</strong> a particular trait is influenced by the perception <strong>of</strong> another trait thatwas presented earlier. The halo effect may occur when <strong>and</strong> individual knows onepositive characteristic about someone else <strong>and</strong> then behaves as though this personpossesses a number <strong>of</strong> other positive traits. For example, when meeting someonewho is attractive, we may automatically presume that they are friendly, smart, successful,<strong>and</strong> so on. This particular study examines whether physical appearance canaffect a person’s perception <strong>of</strong> another individual’s pr<strong>of</strong>essionalism <strong>and</strong> predictedsuccess. Support for the hypothesis would show that the more physically attractivea person is, the more likely others are to see them as pr<strong>of</strong>essional <strong>and</strong> thereforepresumably more successful.31
Poster 63:Self-Monitoring <strong>and</strong> the Element <strong>of</strong> Social Stressas Defined as Academic EvaluationJaime KisselbaughA study was performed on 22 college students from an independent, private Catholicliberal arts university, in order to determine if stress levels affect one’s self-monitoring.The experiment used induced stress as a within-subjects factor in a PretestPost-test design. For the first session, participants were administered Snyder’sSelf-Monitoring Scale <strong>and</strong> a “General Abilities Grammar Test” specifically designedfor the experiment. The test was presented in a split-half format in order to ensurereliability. For the second session, the second half <strong>of</strong> the “Grammar Test” wasadministered to the same groups <strong>of</strong> students. The hypothesis to be supported isthat stress is a determining factor in levels for self-monitoring behavior.Poster 64:Video Game Violence <strong>and</strong> Its Effect on AggressionChris PolitoViolent video games are currently played by millions <strong>of</strong> consumers around theworld. This study explored one <strong>of</strong> the possible negative effects that exposure to suchviolence has: Will jurors who play violent games be more harsh when passing downa sentence on a guilty person? An experiment was designed where two groups <strong>of</strong>participants were r<strong>and</strong>omly assigned to play a violent online game or a nonviolentonline game. They were then asked to read a brief <strong>and</strong> somewhat ambiguous courtcase summary <strong>and</strong> give their sentence recommendation from a specified range.Results in support <strong>of</strong> the hypothesis would show those who played the violent gamespass more strict sentencing recommendations than those who were in the nonviolentscenario. The implications for the courtroom are discussed, such as attorneys whomay find potential jurors’ game choices relevant to jury selection, as well as the potentialdangers that video games may present to increase overall aggressive behavior.Poster 65:Effect <strong>of</strong> Authority on <strong>College</strong> Students’ ComfortRatings in Response to StimuliChelsea Turner, Kimberly Williamson, Jaime Kisselbaugh, <strong>and</strong> Blair MasseyThe purpose <strong>of</strong> the research was to discern the effects <strong>of</strong> authority on the selfreportedcomfort levels <strong>of</strong> 44 students at a small, private university. The researchersdevised a comfort scale which the participants used to rate their relative comfortlevels in response to stimuli, varying in degree <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fensiveness, which were presentedvia PowerPoint presentation. The study was conducted in two sections with thefirst section utilizing the authority <strong>of</strong> the president <strong>of</strong> the university <strong>and</strong> the secondsection utilizing only the authority <strong>of</strong> the student researchers. The researcherspredicted that the presence <strong>of</strong> the more authoritative figure would provoke higherlevels <strong>of</strong> discomfort, but results <strong>of</strong> the study failed to show any significant influence<strong>of</strong> authority on comfort levels.32
Poster 66:Sexual Motivators Among <strong>College</strong> StudentsEmily Whitledge, John Guinter, <strong>and</strong> Jensyn KaplanThe relationship between gender <strong>and</strong> sexual intercourse motivators was investigatedin 82 participants (28 male, 54 female) at a small private university in Kentucky.Participants volunteered with a diverse sexual experience history <strong>and</strong> ranged in agefrom 17 to 23 years. Motivators for engaging in sexual behavior were measured usinga short form variation <strong>of</strong> the established YSEX? questionnaire. Participants wereinvited to evaluate the degree to which each <strong>of</strong> the 107 reasons had led them to havesexual intercourse. Questions were designed to engage one <strong>of</strong> four motivational factors:physical, goal attainment, emotional, <strong>and</strong> insecurity based. Results suggest thatmen are primarily motivated by physical pleasure whereas women are motivated byemotional desires.Poster 67:A Survey <strong>of</strong> the Opinion <strong>and</strong> Prevalence <strong>of</strong> Psychopharmacologyamong <strong>College</strong> StudentsKimberly WilliamsonThe purpose <strong>of</strong> this research was to determine the relationship among collegestudents’ knowledge <strong>and</strong> acceptance <strong>of</strong> mental illness <strong>and</strong> psychopharmacologyin 60 students at a small, private university. The researcher created a short survey,comprised <strong>of</strong> an information section, to discern student knowledge, <strong>and</strong> an opinionsection to discern student acceptance. The items on the questionnaire were in variousforms, including true/false <strong>and</strong> multiple choice items. The data were gatheredat 4 different times inside a 2-week period from groups <strong>of</strong> 15 students who electedto participate for class credit. The researcher predicted that increased informationabout mental illness <strong>and</strong> psychopharmacology would be correlated with increasedacceptance <strong>of</strong> mental illness <strong>and</strong> its drug treatment.Poster 68:Effects <strong>of</strong> Stereotype Awareness on the Development<strong>of</strong> Stereotype Threat in Female Chess PlayersKatie Wolsiefer <strong>and</strong> Hank RothgerberOur study sought to determine when stereotype threat effects emerge in femalechess players <strong>and</strong> whether a relationship exists between awareness <strong>of</strong> stereotypes <strong>and</strong>negative performance effects. Female elementary school chess players ages 6-11 inLouisville, KY were invited to participate. Participants were told their opponent wasfemale (no-threat) or that the opponent was male (threat) then played a computerizedgame <strong>of</strong> chess <strong>and</strong> raced the “opponent” in chess-related puzzles. Participantsalso received a self-report survey which assessed awareness <strong>of</strong> chess-related genderstereotypes. Older participants with great awareness <strong>of</strong> chess-related gender stereotypeswere expected to experience greater levels <strong>of</strong> negative performance effects,while younger participants <strong>and</strong> those with little stereotype awareness were expectedto display fewer performance deficits.33
SOCIOLOGYPoster 69:Parental Arguing: How Child Witnesses Are AffectedIn Their Adult RelationshipsJenny Jerdan / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> this study is to discover how adults who witnessed conflict betweentheir parental figures as children, ranging anywhere from non-violent arguing toextreme cases <strong>of</strong> domestic violence, are affected in their adult romantic relationshipsbased on the degree <strong>of</strong> the conflict that they witnessed, be it physical, emotional, orverbal.Poster 70:<strong>College</strong> Students <strong>and</strong> Current Events:Are They Really Informed?Andrew Tompkins / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> this study is to determine whether college students are well informedon current events, foreign <strong>and</strong> domestic, or are disconnected <strong>and</strong> too busywith their own lives (work, school, family, friends, etc.) to keep up with them.The researcher hopes to discover whether students are informed or too preoccupiedwith their own lives. This study will be conducted using <strong>and</strong> a convenience sample<strong>of</strong> students at a small private mid-western university.Poster 71:Is Heterosexism Prevalent Among <strong>University</strong>Students?Am<strong>and</strong>a Bednara / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> this study is to examine the prevalence <strong>of</strong> heterosexist attitudesamong university student populations. The previous studies on this topic focusmainly on these attitudes within social work <strong>and</strong> psychology, with some emphasison that <strong>of</strong> high school students <strong>and</strong> teachers. These studies do not address heterosexistthought among the general university student population. This study examinedthe prevalence <strong>of</strong> heterosexism along with the demographics <strong>of</strong> the studentsat a small private Midwestern university using a convenience sample survey.34
Poster 72:The Art <strong>of</strong> Video Games: An Investigation<strong>of</strong> Sex, Race, <strong>and</strong> ViolenceJon Florida / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> this study was to perform a content analysis <strong>of</strong> video games to investigatethe portrayal <strong>of</strong> men, women, different races, <strong>and</strong> aggression. After gatheringthe data, questions may be asked as to if the content <strong>of</strong> these games is suitable forthe children <strong>of</strong> today. The researcher wants to replicate a prior study to see if time<strong>and</strong> more advanced technology has changed the portrayal <strong>of</strong> said components.Poster 73:Gender Inequality in Disney Feature LengthAnimated Films: The Evolution <strong>and</strong> PerpetuationJesseca Cox / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> this research was to examine Disney’s feature length animated filmsthroughout the company’s existence to determine if gender inequality is present inthe films, <strong>and</strong> has this inequality been remedied since the feminist movement <strong>of</strong> the1970’s. If gender inequality still exists in these films, then the researcher hoped t<strong>of</strong>ind the exact extent <strong>of</strong> the inequality, whether it was more or less than before thefeminist movement <strong>of</strong> the 1970’s. The study was conducted using content analysis<strong>of</strong> sixteen films along with another coder.Poster 74:Father Absence <strong>and</strong> the Effect onFemale Romantic RelationshipsRachel Lewis / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Curt Bergstr<strong>and</strong>The purpose <strong>of</strong> this research is to examine the effect <strong>of</strong> absent fathers on theirdaughter’s romantic relationships. Previous studies have found that females whogrew up in a home without a father will experience problems in their romantic relationships.These issues include, problems relating to, talking to <strong>and</strong> trusting theirpartner, negative feelings towards marriage <strong>and</strong> children, <strong>and</strong> a series <strong>of</strong> unsuccessfulrelationships. The following study attempted to target the specific consequences<strong>of</strong> this phenomenon specifically who the child lived with for the majority <strong>of</strong> theirchildhood, the level <strong>of</strong> income <strong>of</strong> the family, the other father figures in the child’slife, <strong>and</strong> the mothers attitude toward the father, to determine the effects thesevariables have on the attitude <strong>of</strong> the daughter. This study conducted using a conveniencesample at a small mid-western liberal arts university.35
COMMUNICATIONPoster 75:Ethical Dimensions <strong>of</strong> Advertising to ChildrenRachel Lewis / Faculty Sponsor: Gail HensonThe art <strong>of</strong> advertising can be a useful tool to market products to consumers. Howeverwhen the viewing audience is still developing they may fall prey to the tacticsused by pr<strong>of</strong>essional advertisers. This study was designed to examine the effectsvarious types <strong>of</strong> advertising have on children <strong>and</strong> what is being done to limit theirexposure. The ethical issue at h<strong>and</strong> is the age children are exposed to advertising<strong>and</strong> what is considered harmful. This paper will discuss how parents caregivers <strong>and</strong>corporations can work together to decide what is harmful to children <strong>and</strong> at whatage these same advertisements become harmless.Poster 76:Crossing the Line with Violence in Video GamesJessica Henderson / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonChildren are easily influenced. They take what they see in everyday life <strong>and</strong> applyit to their life. This can be used very well if the child sees how to be polite <strong>and</strong> interactwell with others, however if the child is seeing violence, shootings, <strong>and</strong> deaththis can determine how they act. The number <strong>of</strong> children playing video games isincreasing along with violence among children. Researchers are beginning to drawa connection between violence in video games <strong>and</strong> violence among children. Thispaper will explore the ethics <strong>of</strong> violence in video games <strong>and</strong> how it may be affectingthe lifestyles <strong>of</strong> children <strong>and</strong> teenagers.Poster 77:Ethics in Persuasion: What Crosses the Line?Chartrael Hall / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonHistory has been made with the 2008 election <strong>of</strong> President Barack Obama. PresidentObama’s election will require overcoming the racial st<strong>and</strong>ard that has dividedthis country for many years. “Change we believe in.” This was President Obama’scampaign slogan which he used to provide the American people with the faith <strong>and</strong>belief that the country lacked this day <strong>and</strong> age. President Obama emphasizes thatAmerica must support the blue-collar workers <strong>and</strong> middle class Americans in orderto promote change in America. President Obama, a charismatic man with potentialto lead this country, has used persuasive rhetoric to win the American people over.President Obama’s plans to change society for the better, encourage life for singleparent mothers, compromise the foreign policy <strong>and</strong> positively increasing equal opportunityfor all mankind.36
Poster 78:Have Junk Food Ads Targeted toChildren Gone Too Far?Allison Dobson / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonJunk food has been found to be the number one product advertised to childrenthrough the media today. With the obesity rates growing <strong>and</strong> diabetes found inchildren every day, this advertising is becoming a problem. According to a reportfrom the Kaiser Family Foundation, half <strong>of</strong> all ads seen during children’s televisionshows are for food. Also 34% <strong>of</strong> all ads shown to children <strong>and</strong> teens are for c<strong>and</strong>yor snacks. The foods that are advertised are c<strong>and</strong>y, unhealthy cereals, chips, etc.Children see these fun advertisements <strong>and</strong> decide that they want to go out <strong>and</strong> buythe junk food. With as many advertisements as children see in one day, this is scary.The Institute <strong>of</strong> Medicine conducted a committee that quoted, “Television advertisinginfluences the food preferences, purchase requests, <strong>and</strong> diets, at least <strong>of</strong> childrenunder age 12 years, <strong>and</strong> is associated with the increased rates <strong>of</strong> obesity amongchildren <strong>and</strong> youth.”Poster 79:Disney Crossing the LineLeanne Belair / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonThe topic is Disney Crossing the Line. The paper will discuss <strong>and</strong> give examples <strong>of</strong>the extreme impact that Disney Company has on U.S. culture. Disney marketsenchantment to parents <strong>and</strong> children. Disney <strong>and</strong> its products are most certainlyamong the most universally recognized both in the United States <strong>and</strong> throughoutthe world. The hypothesis is that the Disney Company crosses ethical lines in orderto be that inescapable, intrusive, <strong>and</strong> ever-present company in parents <strong>and</strong> childrenlives. The Disney Company can be looked at as a marketing genius, or it can beviewed as a company that has too much power over the youth <strong>of</strong> our culture. Themethodology will be analyzing data from the research that emphasizes the nature<strong>and</strong> effects <strong>of</strong> promoting consumerism on children <strong>and</strong> teens though many media.37
Poster 80:The ethical implications <strong>of</strong> gender stereotyping <strong>and</strong>gender representation in children’s picture books.Jennifer Perry / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonThis study/research project examines gender stereotypes in children’s books <strong>and</strong> therelated ethical issues <strong>and</strong> solutions. Many studies have found that the stereotypes<strong>and</strong> biased portrayals <strong>of</strong> gender roles in books have an effect on children’s development<strong>and</strong> perceptions <strong>of</strong> themselves <strong>and</strong> the world. Research says that many currentchildren’s books still contain stereotypes (female <strong>and</strong> male), though they may beimproving in some areas, such as moving toward equal numbers <strong>of</strong> pictures <strong>of</strong> males<strong>and</strong> females. However, the positive changes are mostly in books for older children,<strong>and</strong> young children still read older books that contain more stereotypes. Youngchildren at a developmentally critical age are still exposed to the biases, <strong>and</strong> they internalizethe stereotypes which limits their perceptions <strong>of</strong> available roles. Therefore,the main ethical problem is that if the majority <strong>of</strong> children’s books contain genderbiases <strong>and</strong> stereotypes, children learn to believe the roles <strong>of</strong> males <strong>and</strong> females arevery different <strong>and</strong> limited. Because censorship is never a good solution, the goals <strong>of</strong>most studies are to provide a balance <strong>of</strong> books (ethical guideline: Aristotle’s Mean)<strong>and</strong> have teachers <strong>and</strong> parents help the children underst<strong>and</strong> the content <strong>of</strong> books(ethical guideline: Nodding’s Relational Ethics theory). Books with stereotypes <strong>and</strong>more traditional roles <strong>and</strong> books with nontraditional roles help children underst<strong>and</strong>their roles. They need to see in one book that they can become stay-at-home mothers<strong>and</strong> see in another that they can become commercial pilots.Poster 81:Music Industry EthicsNathan Becht / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonThis research paper is on the music industry <strong>and</strong> will include the aspects <strong>of</strong>: musicpiracy, ethics, <strong>and</strong> business. The music industry is currently in a state <strong>of</strong> change,<strong>and</strong> is an interesting topic to explore in this time <strong>of</strong> technological innovation. Thisresearch paper will be able to show how ethics is a larger part <strong>of</strong> the industry thanit ever has been. The music industry has gone through a number <strong>of</strong> changes in theselling <strong>and</strong> purchasing <strong>of</strong> music. With all <strong>of</strong> the controversies surrounding musicpiracy <strong>and</strong> person-to-person sharing, the industry is trying to do everything it canin order to be as ethical as possible while still producing a product that can generatethe highest pr<strong>of</strong>it for music companies. The idea <strong>of</strong> this report is to diagnose themost important issues currently in the industry <strong>and</strong> present them in an underst<strong>and</strong>able<strong>and</strong> informational format for the reader. It is evident that change is currentlyhappening with this industry <strong>and</strong> after analyzing it through this research paperthere may be an apparent solution to any problems that may be. This case will lookat the music industry <strong>and</strong> find if it is operating in the most ethical way possible. Ifnothing else, this report will broaden the intellect on the ethics <strong>of</strong> music creating,selling, sharing <strong>and</strong> performing.38
Poster 82:The Ethical Responsibility <strong>of</strong> the Fast FoodIndustry in the Advertising to ChildrenLaura Anderson / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonThe ethics behind targeting kids in food advertising campaigns is an increasinglyimportant issue as childhood obesity becomes more prevalent in the United States.Since 1980, the obesity rates for children have doubled, <strong>and</strong> those for teens havetripled. Diagnoses <strong>of</strong> type II diabetes <strong>and</strong> hypertension have also grown in children/teens (Schor, 2004, p. 35). With more than half <strong>of</strong> the estimated 40,000 advertisementsAmerican children view each year are for junk food, advertisers are faced withthe challenge <strong>of</strong> selling their product while maintaining ethical st<strong>and</strong>ards (Strasburger,2002, p. 239). Advertising junk food targeted to a children’s audience leadsto an increased risk <strong>of</strong> obesity <strong>and</strong> develops product loyalties throughout a lifetime.In 2001 a survey conducted by Nickelodeon found that 89 percent <strong>of</strong> kids agree,“When I find a br<strong>and</strong> I like, I tend to stick with it” (Schor, 2004, p. 25). Marketingto children has been found to be particularly advantageous because <strong>of</strong> their impressionablenature <strong>and</strong> influence on their parent’s purchases. The food industry hasnumerous opportunities to target children via television, the Internet, movies, printmedia, <strong>and</strong> in schools. The following will explore, which advertising strategies aremost influential on children’s food choices, how advertisements are being regulated,<strong>and</strong> the level <strong>of</strong> responsibility advertisers are accepting for the increase in childhoodobesity rates in the United States.Poster 83:When Journalists Should Intervene:The Ethics <strong>of</strong> Crisis CommunicationJensyn Kaplan / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonPictures <strong>of</strong> war torn countries, natural disasters, <strong>and</strong> terrorist attacks find themselveson the front covers <strong>of</strong> our newspapers <strong>and</strong> television screens everyday. Journalistsrisk their lives to bring on-the-scene coverage <strong>of</strong> events to the public, but as what,pr<strong>of</strong>essionals or citizens rendering aid? This question leads to the byst<strong>and</strong>er effect,a psychological theory originally developed after the murder <strong>of</strong> Kitty Genovese.38 people witnessed the attack, yet waited half an hour before intervening. Thebyst<strong>and</strong>er effect can be explained in two ways: diffusion <strong>of</strong> responsibility <strong>and</strong> theneed to behave in socially acceptable ways. According to theory people are less likelyto respond in an emergency situation when several people are present. The assumptionbeing that others will intervene in large group situations. The byst<strong>and</strong>er effectis also relevant in the life <strong>of</strong> journalists. One has to question whether journalists inemergency situations should be “detached observers or good Samaritans.” Today’sattitude seems to be that journalists are responsible for rendering aid when no oneelse is available, unless they are assigned to cover an event where people’s lives arein danger. In this since, the journalist transforms himself/herself from pr<strong>of</strong>essionaljournalist to ordinary citizen. The ultimate question is whether or when journalistsshould intervene in crisis situations.39
Poster 84:Cyber Ethics: Invasion <strong>of</strong> Privacy OnlineDannie Baker Jr. / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonWhen surfing the web do you know who is watching you? Do you know why youget r<strong>and</strong>om e-mails from people you don’t know soliciting things that you may havejust looked at? This is because a lack <strong>of</strong> security. For many reasons this happens welltoo <strong>of</strong>ten, <strong>and</strong> through much research from scholarly sources the discussion reallybegins on security on the internet. When it comes to the internet there seems tobe security when actually you really don’t know who is watching you. This paperwill discuss the ethical issues <strong>of</strong> large corporations being able to know what you arelooking at <strong>and</strong> what you buy. This paper will also hit on the topics <strong>of</strong> how muchprivacy people actually have when it comes to surfing the web, <strong>and</strong> the protectionthat we think, <strong>and</strong> actually have to protect us from people spying on us. Thepublic is “free” to surf the web, but every move is marked with things like “cookies.”People really don’t know how much they are keeping private <strong>and</strong> how much is beingseen by others. It’s only a matter <strong>of</strong> time before the public will have no privacy whatso ever. So is it ethical for people to be able to spy on others when using technology,this covers items like the internet <strong>and</strong> cell phones. Is it ok when it is used by thegovernment, to supposedly, help fight the crime on terror? These are all subjects thatwill be covered further.Poster 85:The Ethical Effects <strong>of</strong> Advertising on Body ImageMolly Owens / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonWhat effect do advertising <strong>and</strong> various forms <strong>of</strong> media have on body image? Media<strong>and</strong> advertising have a negative effect on body image <strong>and</strong> are partially responsiblefor the rise <strong>of</strong> eating disorders in young women <strong>and</strong> men. Due to the advertising<strong>and</strong> portrayal <strong>of</strong> both men <strong>and</strong> women, it can cause them to take drastic actionswith their bodies. Men turn to steroids <strong>and</strong> women turn to eating disorders to maketheir bodies “perfect.” Advertisers <strong>and</strong> clothing designers believe they can best representtheir product by using young, good looking, <strong>and</strong> skinny models. The marketing<strong>of</strong> children <strong>and</strong> adolescents can cause both psychological <strong>and</strong> physical disorders<strong>and</strong> complexes in the young consumers. The ethical issue stems from corporationstaking advantage <strong>of</strong> children <strong>and</strong> adolescents <strong>and</strong> the way American culture affectsthem. They capitalize on the fact that they are submerged in a culture <strong>of</strong> sex, supermodels<strong>and</strong> promiscuity. The impact <strong>of</strong> this marketing <strong>and</strong> advertising is the rise inlow self-esteem <strong>and</strong> eating disorders in the American adolescent population.40
Poster 86:The Ethics <strong>of</strong> Bias in War ReportingKerri Daly / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonWith numerous wars <strong>and</strong> conflict having occurred within the past decade, warrelatedstories continue to make headlines in today’s various news sources. Inreporting such a sensitive topic, the question easily arises “What is the proper wayto report war?” While the public unarguably needs to be aware <strong>of</strong> what is occurring,how much information does the public truly need to know? How do reporterstoday decide what stories should be covered? Is the bianess used in their reportingjustifable? Are they covering the war accurately? By using information from twentyplus scholarly journals, answers to these questions will be sought, with concludingthoughts on how war coverage should be h<strong>and</strong>led by today’s journalists.Poster 87:Ethics <strong>of</strong> Negative Political CampaignsRussell Farris / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonSince there has been so much discussion <strong>and</strong> documentation regarding negativecampaign advertising, advocates <strong>and</strong> critics have argued that negative advertising,or attack advertising, has just as much <strong>of</strong> a positive effect than a negative effect,<strong>and</strong> vice versa. Since negative advertising continues to take place today in politicalcampaigns, are America’s most highly respected leaders actually being leaders whenthey resort to such harsh measures? This paper will not focus directly on the ethicaljustifications <strong>of</strong> previous campaigns in which negative campaigning occurred,but rather why negative campaigning has been so effective in the U.S. politicalcampaigns, why politicians continue to use negativity in their campaigns, <strong>and</strong> theresearch that revolves around the ethics <strong>of</strong> negative political advertising in America.41
Poster 88:The Ethical Implications <strong>of</strong> Plastic Surgery inthe Media & Its Effects on Body ImageRachel Foster / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonThe connection between the desire to have plastic surgery <strong>and</strong> how images areinfluential in the media will be discussed, as well as how these portrayals affectself-esteem <strong>and</strong> body image. The paper will outline a number <strong>of</strong> media outlets (i.e.print, TV, web, etc.) <strong>and</strong> their effects, how such effects can be balanced out or remedied,the psyche behind self-image, judgments from others <strong>and</strong> whether they influencethe decision to have plastic surgery. Though the focus will be on self-imagein correlation with media images, the majority will concentrate on plastic surgery<strong>and</strong> the desire to look younger, have a more toned/thinner physique, larger breast,etc in order to fit in <strong>and</strong> mold to the image that the media <strong>and</strong> celebrities portrayas normal. Ethical issues will be examined in concern with whether it is morallyright or wrong for the media to continue to display such examples <strong>and</strong> role models,even when research has found that they have a negative effect on the population’spsyche. Discussion on whether media outlets should try to combat such problemsby limiting exposure <strong>of</strong> celebrities <strong>and</strong> models who have had plastic surgery will alsobe looked at, along with possible outcomes that would happen due to a media outletst<strong>and</strong>ing up against “the norm.”Poster 89:Too Far? Too Soon? When Does Humor<strong>and</strong> Satire Cross the Line?C. Robert Vocke / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonOne way the ethics <strong>of</strong> a society can be understood is when studying the entertainment<strong>and</strong> leisure activities in place in that particular culture. One medium which isconstantly poking <strong>and</strong> prodding at social structures <strong>and</strong> norms, as well as evaluatingeveryday social interactions is the use <strong>of</strong> satire. Whether this is a satirical news storyabout the current political policies, or a st<strong>and</strong> up comedian pushing the envelopewith jokes that are witty, biting, but also insightful, comedy is a limitless source forthe study <strong>of</strong> ethics. Shows such as South Park have gained credibility for their use<strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>f color comedy to make an overall statement about current events in America.But many find the show distasteful, <strong>and</strong> also filled with ethnic slurs, violence, <strong>and</strong>a constant use <strong>of</strong> foul language. Another medium that many claim take things to<strong>of</strong>ar is parody news shows, such as The Daily Show <strong>and</strong> The Colbert Report. Theseshows give news through the use <strong>of</strong> satire or, in the latter show, also the use <strong>of</strong> anironic false persona. Where is the line between comedy <strong>and</strong> news drawn in such anews source? I plan to delve into <strong>and</strong> examine at what point satirists cross the line,if indeed they do. I hope from this paper some spectrum <strong>of</strong> American social ethicscan be derived <strong>and</strong> analyzed as history has shown satirists are the ones that questioncommonly held mores <strong>and</strong> ethical views in a culture.42
Poster 90:War Photography: When is publishing appropriate?Brittany McGarry / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonWar photography has many affects on the public. Some want to know the details<strong>and</strong> some would rather the graphic images stay with the war. Looking at photographs<strong>and</strong> realizing when it is right <strong>and</strong> wrong to publish is a huge decision makingprocess. I have analyzed articles, books <strong>and</strong> more with opinions <strong>and</strong> other researchto determine who is right <strong>and</strong> who is wrong.Poster 91:Media Approaches to Wellness/ NutritionNate Littles / Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gail HensonAmericans as a whole are viewed as overweight people, when many Americans areat a great weight <strong>and</strong> living healthy lifestyles. The views that people hold in theireye <strong>of</strong> beautiful people are skinny pale looking models, that are clearly are not livinghealthy lifestyles, or muscular tone men that are usually too muscular to evenscratch their own back. Many restaurants <strong>and</strong> other companies are shunned awayby people because <strong>of</strong> the unhealthy foods that they <strong>of</strong>fer, like McDonalds <strong>and</strong> otherfast food chains that <strong>of</strong>fer 540caloric s<strong>and</strong>wiches. Because <strong>of</strong> Americans view <strong>of</strong>what is healthy <strong>and</strong> the right weight/ look for people, there are more than a milliondifferent diet plans <strong>and</strong> ways to loose weight, from Jenny Craig, NutriSystem,The Atkins Diet to diet pills <strong>and</strong> even surgery to remove excess weight. The media’sapproach to wellness is to show you people that you recognize, like famous celebs,<strong>and</strong> actors, to sell you their weight loss idea. Many <strong>of</strong> the diet plans usually end upharming you or only produce weight loss for a limited period <strong>of</strong> time. All that everneeds to bee said about personal wellness <strong>and</strong> nutrition is that you need to burnmore calories than you take in with physical activity. I believe that the medias approachis unethical.43
Poster 92:Childhood Obesity AbstractAm<strong>and</strong>a MooreChildhood obesity has been a health epidemic in the United States for many years.After years <strong>and</strong> years <strong>of</strong> neglecting the issue; the public has finally began to underst<strong>and</strong>the severity <strong>of</strong> the problem. In recent studies it has been found that morethan one-third <strong>of</strong> children in the United States are obese. This number has beenincreasing drastically over the years <strong>and</strong> will continue to increase unless the root <strong>of</strong>the problem is found. These children are extremely unhealthy <strong>and</strong> have a chance <strong>of</strong>developing metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, asthma, Type 2 diabetes, sleepdisorders, liver disease, nonalcoholic hepatitis, <strong>and</strong> other health risks. Another troublingaspect <strong>of</strong> obesity is the psychological <strong>and</strong> social effects it has on the children.The focal point <strong>of</strong> this study is to find the aspects in our society that largely influenceschildhood obesity. This is a very ethical issue in today’s society <strong>and</strong> causesmuch debate <strong>and</strong> controversy around the world. The six main aspects be researched<strong>and</strong> addressed in this review are: 1. The ethical issue <strong>of</strong> marketing <strong>and</strong> advertisinghigh energy, nutrient poor foods to children, 2. Access <strong>of</strong> healthy foods in povertyneighborhoods, 3. Culture’s influence on childhood obesity, 4. Parent’s influence onchildren’s eating habits <strong>and</strong> physical activity, 5. Analyzing our entire environmentsinfluence on Childhood obesity <strong>and</strong> 6. The consequences obesity has on children.Poster 93:Effects <strong>of</strong> Being a Spectator <strong>of</strong> Live TheaterVanessa FergusonEarly writer <strong>of</strong> absurdest theater Samuel Beckett used his works to engage senselesssituations, avant-garde dialogue, <strong>and</strong> minimal to nonexistent plots to express theapparent absurdity <strong>and</strong> meaninglessness <strong>of</strong> human existence. This creative minority<strong>of</strong> works alienated audiences’ norm from its psychotic roots, creating an irresistiblefactor in the unconscious mind to declare war upon the pseudo-ego. Waiting forGodot, Beckett’s first play written <strong>and</strong> performed for the stage, was, by Beckett’sown account, about nothing, although none would argue that Godot uses blackhumor (the substantial aspect <strong>of</strong> Theater <strong>of</strong> the Absurd that describes sardonicallyhumorous effects derived from mordant wit <strong>and</strong> morbid or grotesque situationsthat deal with anxiety, suffering or death) in this play. Audiences are affected bytheatrical works in more than just the conscious level. Aesthetic rapture affects theaudience primarily through emotional modes, which causes the individual watchingWaiting for Godot to question, both consciously <strong>and</strong> unconsciously, how they feelabout the human condition the way Beckett sees it - aimless, blank, <strong>and</strong> insignificant.The following will question Beckett’s absurdest works relating to unsuspectingaudiences, <strong>and</strong> attempt to answer the question <strong>of</strong> ethical <strong>and</strong> moral value <strong>of</strong> theseplays, specifically that <strong>of</strong> Waiting for Godot. Seventeen scholarly articles were usedin this research, as well as multiple articles from The New York Times dating backto April 19, 1956 (the date Godot opened in NYC). Articles from the AmericanPsychological Association were also analyzed to complete research on the conscious<strong>and</strong> unconscious affects <strong>of</strong> being a spectator <strong>of</strong> live theater.44
BROWN SCHOLARSFaculty Sponsor for All Brown Scholars Posters: Dr. Winnie SpitzaPoster 94:International Culture Awareness <strong>and</strong> Appreciation:An Interactive ApproachBrown Scholars Erica Ward <strong>and</strong> Ashtin RineyAs a result <strong>of</strong> our experiences abroad (Erica Ward: France; Ashtin Riney: Spain <strong>and</strong>Argentina) <strong>and</strong> interaction with other cultures, we realize the importance <strong>of</strong> learningabout <strong>and</strong> appreciating other cultures <strong>and</strong> hope to spread this enthusiasm tothe greater Louisville community. Our project is an interactive approach to raisingawareness <strong>and</strong> appreciation <strong>of</strong> different cultures, including presentations <strong>and</strong> discussionswith local high school students. Through these discussions we have drawnupon our own experiences studying abroad to educate students about the globalperspective <strong>and</strong> the role that Americans play in the world. Our research includesinformation from scholarly articles <strong>and</strong> personal interviews conducted with internationalstudents currently studying at <strong>Bellarmine</strong> in order to portray the benefits <strong>of</strong>learning about other countries, studying abroad, <strong>and</strong> celebrating other cultures.Poster 95:Tutoring with Catholic CharitiesChristina CarrilloFor my service project I will be working with Catholic Charities. I will tutor adult<strong>and</strong> children immigrants in English for four weeks. I will tutor twice a week onTuesdays <strong>and</strong> Fridays. At the completion <strong>of</strong> my project I will have provided 20hours in community service.Poster 96:Advancing Future Generations through ElementaryStudent Refugee TutoringGina SolomosThis Brown Scholar senior project consists <strong>of</strong> tutoring refugee elementary studentsat the non-pr<strong>of</strong>it Arcadia Community Center in order to fulfill the capstone requirement<strong>of</strong> the Brown Scholars Leadership Program at <strong>Bellarmine</strong>, which consists<strong>of</strong> completing 20 hours <strong>of</strong> community service to address the three prongs <strong>of</strong> theprogram—civic engagement, leadership, <strong>and</strong> communication skills. This particularproject allows connection with <strong>and</strong> improvement <strong>of</strong> the Louisville community byhelping advance the mission <strong>of</strong> its own Arcadia Center to provide educational <strong>and</strong>social support to refugee students within the Arcadia community as they adjust totheir new life <strong>and</strong> home in the United States.45
Poster 97:Project Cleanup: Olmstead ParksAlex GreenThe last week <strong>of</strong> January in 2009 welcomed what would turn into the worst icestorm to ever hit Kentucky. The aftermath was unlike any situation that the statehad ever dealt with, resulting in a record high <strong>of</strong> power outages across the commonwealth.This terrible storm, coupled with the terrible fallout from HurricaneIke that hit in 2008, has taken a toll upon the citizens <strong>and</strong> the area’s beautifull<strong>and</strong>scapes. In the city <strong>of</strong> Louisville alone, the damage left from the ice storm wasabundant <strong>and</strong> widespread. In this difficult time, it is the social responsibility <strong>of</strong>every citizen to contribute in some capacity. The purpose <strong>of</strong> my Brown Scholar’sSenior Project is to aid in the efforts to restore the Olmstead Parks <strong>of</strong> Louisvilleback to their magnificent stature. Louisville has been uniquely endowed with a remarkablydesign park system that st<strong>and</strong>s as a foundation in the social life <strong>of</strong> the city.From the highl<strong>and</strong>’s Cherokee Park to Iroquois Park in southern Jefferson county toCentral Park located in the heart <strong>of</strong> the city, Louisville must never take for grantedits precious parks. Through a coordinated cleanup, restoration, <strong>and</strong> beautificationeffort, which will be organized through my preparations with the Olmstead ParksConservancy, I will conduct this service project. Through the social responsibility Ifeel towards my community, I will engage in this endeavor with the upmost determination<strong>and</strong> resolve to complete a worthy project, both as a leader <strong>and</strong> participant.Poster 98:Redesigning the Liberal <strong>Arts</strong> Program at SenecaHigh School Jefferson County Public Schools,Seneca High SchoolMitch GreenwellI spent the fall semester <strong>of</strong> my senior year student teaching at Seneca high schoolin what served as my pr<strong>of</strong>essional semester. During my time at Seneca I workedwith Music, History, <strong>and</strong> English teachers to determine how to improve one <strong>of</strong>Seneca’s benchmark programs: Liberal <strong>Arts</strong>. Began two decades ago, the programthrived under a young English department, but hasn’t adapted to the current needs<strong>of</strong> today’s students, i.e. technology, social issues <strong>and</strong> modern culture. With a new,younger staff at Seneca, We felt it was appropriate to put the time <strong>and</strong> energyneeded to make crucial decisions on how to improve the program that has only beenslightly changed over twenty years. This demonstrates my leadership capabilities byproviding a voice outside <strong>of</strong> the faculty that have been hired at Seneca, <strong>and</strong> providesa different perspective on the program’s key issues. I collaborated closely with staffmembers <strong>of</strong> varying fields to determine what mast most lacking from the currentprogram, what could remain but needed to be adapted, <strong>and</strong> what needed to be cutaltogether. The new Liberal <strong>Arts</strong> program, which will be implemented in the fall<strong>of</strong> 2010, will have aspects that I specifically helped to engineer, <strong>and</strong> will have animpact on generations <strong>of</strong> Redhawks to come.46
Poster 99:Guatemala: Viewing the World through New EyesZack ThienemanMy idea for my senior project involves looking into my past <strong>and</strong> reflecting on aparticularly momentous experience I had while being a part <strong>of</strong> a family travelingacross the world to Zacapa, Guatemala. I would present a poster during ResearchDay about my experiences leading up to <strong>and</strong> being a part <strong>of</strong> a unique group whichwent across the globe to underst<strong>and</strong> another way <strong>of</strong> life. I would tell <strong>of</strong> my experiencesheading projects for fundraisers <strong>and</strong> increasing my knowledge <strong>of</strong> the world formy benefit <strong>and</strong> the benefit <strong>of</strong> those around me. This 10-day experience increased myworldly knowledge, helped me underst<strong>and</strong> another way <strong>of</strong> life, honed my leadership<strong>and</strong> community involvement, <strong>and</strong> fostered personal growth. This trip to Guatemalawas one which left a lasting impression, <strong>and</strong> I would love to impart some <strong>of</strong> that onthe people around me.47
BELLARMINE EMERGENCYRESPONSE TEAMPoster 100:Establishing the <strong>Bellarmine</strong> EmergencyResponse Team (BERT)Evan Kuhl / Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Joan Combs Durso <strong>and</strong> Dr. David PortaPrehospital emergency care is a vital public service. The most important factoraffecting the quality <strong>of</strong> service provided is early access by the consumer. In manycommunities, the number <strong>of</strong> Emergency Medical Service (EMS) responses isincreasing. In Louisville, the call load has surpassed 100,000 per year. At the sametime, the student <strong>and</strong> staff population at <strong>Bellarmine</strong> <strong>University</strong> has grown. Theresult is an increased need for prompt, on-campus emergency response as well aseducation. After a tragic event prompted discussions in a senior seminar class, datawas collected from the National Collegiate Emergency Medical Services Foundation(NCEMSF), which maintains a web-based library <strong>of</strong> Collegiate-based EMS(CEMS) programs <strong>and</strong> details on their establishment. The number <strong>of</strong> schools withCEMS have increased steadily in the past 10 years. The process <strong>of</strong> establishing,staffing, <strong>and</strong> funding such a service depends on significant cooperation between theschool, state, <strong>and</strong> local EMS. Fortunately, a dedicated group <strong>of</strong> founding students<strong>and</strong> a faculty member took a summer EMT certification course <strong>and</strong> began forgingbonds with local EMS. The first step was to generate interest through the establishment<strong>of</strong> a Registered Student Organization. Later, the budding organization wasmoved under the Department <strong>of</strong> Public Safety. The result is the <strong>Bellarmine</strong> EmergencyResponse Team (BERT)- the first <strong>and</strong> only collegiate emergency responseteam in Kentucky. It will provide Basic Life Support (BLS) care for on-campusevents. It is hoped that BERT will serve as a model for the establishment <strong>of</strong> otherCEMS organizations in the state.48
ENGLISHPoster 101:The Social Self: Exploring Cultural InfluencesThrough HypertextCorey DeGrave & Allison Gerulski / Faculty Sponsor: Pr<strong>of</strong>. Jennifer SinskiStudents Corey DeGrave <strong>and</strong> Allison Gerulski display their experimental hypertextdocuments in a new form <strong>of</strong> English Composition that incorporates an electronicpublication component to the tradional written essay. This project combinesthree different assignments. The first two require different texts in different genres(personal narrative <strong>and</strong> critical analysis), while the third requires blending theprevious two into an image-enhanced experimental hypertext. The first essay isan autobiographical narrative on the influence <strong>of</strong> a pop culture icon on a personallevel. The narrative focuses on an experience or several experiences relating to theicon. Though the assignment requires students to tell a story, it’s a story about influence,<strong>and</strong> influence is <strong>of</strong>ten complex <strong>and</strong> subtle. The second essay, a critical analysis,describes the attitudes <strong>and</strong> assumptions the person represents, <strong>and</strong> discusseshis or her importance to contemporary social life. Finally the story <strong>and</strong> essay aredivided, into small units which will make for exciting hypertext pages. These unitsare linked in ways that will highlight the interconnectedness <strong>of</strong> personal experience<strong>and</strong> the life <strong>of</strong> the chosen cultural figure. Students creatively weave the separatecompositions into one experimental piece, challenging the reader to follow both textualthreads as they coil around one another. Students explore ways <strong>of</strong> keeping thereading involved in the hypertext document with color, graphics <strong>and</strong> multimedia.49
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