2019 Kent State University Undergraduate Symposium on Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity
Browse the 2019 - Kent State University Undergraduate Symposium on Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Collections
"Us vs Them": The Meaning of Violence Within Euro-American Tall Tales of the Frontier Era04/09/2019Most of the tall tales that are celebrated today are the result of multiple generations of censorship to appease our modern day sensibilities. Authentic tall tales that were told by the frontiersmen of nineteenth century America contained themes of racism and violence. Through the study of tales that contain violence against Native Americans, I explore to what extent this hatred influenced the development of the Euro-American cultural identity. |
“…she must be a factory girl.”: Changing the Social Perception of Factory girls in Lowell, MA 1840-184504/09/2019Through the study of publications in the Lowell Offering printed from 1840-1845, one would find that many of the writings show an acknowledgement by female operatives of the negative connotations placed by society onto the stereotype of factory girl. Through analysis of the stories, poems and songs published in the Lowell Offering magazine, a direct attempt by the female authors and subsequently the operatives of the textile mills in Lowell, Massachusetts is shown to counter act or disprove the negative stereotype of women employed in industrialization as immoral, uneducated, and unable to perform domestic responsibilities. Historians have used the magazine for its examples of women’s access to intellectual advancement, analysis of working and living conditions, fashion styles, comparison of content against other magazines of the time period, and for its sense of collectivism amongst the women. However, very little has been said about the motivations of the female authors behind the magazine and how they attempted to alter the way society perceived the women employed in industrialization while maintaining personal independence. The women of Lowell, Massachusetts used the Lowell Offering as a platform to voice their opinions while actively negating the negative stereotype held by society towards female factory workers. |
“The Most Obstinate Women That Ever Was”: Mary I’s Impact on English Queenship, 1553-155804/09/2019Mary I's impact on queenship is often forgotten in the span of English monarchs to the relative ineffectivesness of her reign. However, her role as the country's first sovereign queen was extremely influential in how much power women of the time period were able to hold. Much of her contributions to queenship have since been attributed to her half-sister, Elizabeth I, while Mary is left underrepresented. Mary participated in spheres of work that had formerly been prohibited from females, held precedence over her husband Philip II, and defied the opinions of man to pursue her own goals, all firsts for female rulers of her time. |
(MERCH) ABSTRACT04/09/2019The fashion industry relies heavily on several natural resources. Consumers and manufacturers are slowly gaining awareness of their impact on today’s resources, but the public still faces a lot of unfamiliarity with the intensity of the issue. Water is a major resource of concern when it comes to the manufacture of cotton and its widespread use in the fashion industry. With the continuous growth of the population, water scarcity is evident. The objective of this case is to study and evaluate consumers’ concern with water usage within the industry. With intent to evaluate the state of the industry’s efforts to cut back the use of natural resources. The use of water pertaining to cotton in addition to how much waste the fashion industry produces is a growing topic of concern. |
(MERCH) Sustainable Athleisure: Influence of Social Media on the Purchase Decisions of Millennial Women04/09/2019In an ever changing market, heavily influenced by social media, the altheisure segment continues to grow exponentially. Activewear is no longer just for working out, it has become a versatile category of clothing that can be worn for various activities both day and night. Due to its wide acceptance, athleisure is not only a personal style choice, but a lifestyle trend inspired by social media. In today’s society, brands rely on their social media platforms, specifically Instagram, for a large amount of their exposure. This increased exposure allows for potential growth within the sustainability sector of the athleisure market. Sustainable activewear companies such as Patagonia, Outdoor Voices, and Groceries Apparel use their Instagram accounts to promote products and increase consumer engagement. This study intends to use qualitative research methods to gather data that shows the correlation between a brand’s Instagram content and millennial women’s perceptions of athleisure. This study will explore influential advertising techniques used on Instagram by these sustainable activewear brands. The research method will include observing and tracking comments and hashtags from the consumers, as well as reposts, influencers, and events promoted by the companies. This study is expecting to show results of a positive relationship between the brands’ social media platform, Instagram, and the consumer following. In the qualitative data research stated above, observations will show from the content analysis that brand involvement with consumers through Instagram influences both purchase decisions and lifestyle choices of millennial women. Overall, this study expects to further investigate the impact that increased exposure of sustainable altheisure companies will have on female consumers. The impact of the increased exposure will be based on the various advertising techniques used by each brand on Instagram. A positive correlation will be observed and determined by the end of this study. |
[MERCH] Consumer and Environmental Awareness in Athleisure Trend04/09/2019As consumers are becoming more aware of the environment, the fashion industry’s demand for sustainable fibers has drastically increased. Consumers are desiring garments that are not as harmful to the environment as they once were. To keep up with growing demand, brands are attempting to be more sustainable by not using as many natural resources. Consumers and brands have long relied on cotton as a staple natural fiber due to its comfort, ease of care, and ability to be produced sustainably. However, cotton is struggling to stay relevant in the successful athleisure trend. This trend uses mostly synthetic fibers for the utmost athletic comfort and performance. The goal of this case study is to explore how the cotton industry is attempting to battle the growing popularity of synthetic fiber usage in the athleisure market. Many brands have partnered with organic cotton initiative like Cotton Incorporated to move toward using organic, sustainably sourced, and manufactured cotton. Researching and reviewing which brands rely on cotton to construct their garments and what the brands are doing to maintain relevant in the changing market will be important. Specifically, investigating what consumers know about synthetic materials and sustainable cotton manufacturing. This information will determine how much consumers know about the garments and brands they are purchasing and whether or not it affects their purchase decision. To collect this data, we plan to distribute a survey to students in Kent State University’s school of Fashion Design and Merchandising. Because these students are largely involved in the fashion industry and are some of the biggest consumers, their insight on the subject will be impactful due to their education and their insight on the subject matter. These fashion students are also more likely to be concerned about the ethical and sustainable manner in which their clothes or clothing fibers are produced than the average consumer. The survey will use opinion based questions to gather information from students. We expect this study to find that students are more likely to pay more for products manufactured with sustainably sourced cotton, but also that they are purchasing more and more synthetic fibers in their athleisure wear, due to their comfort and durability. Brands that have partnered with the organic cotton initiative can use the survey responses to develop new techniques to make cotton more comfortable and durable while using sustainable practices. |
[MERCH] Consumer Disposal Habits04/09/2019With the rapid growth and demand of fast fashion apparel, textile waste has increased tremendously. Fast fashion encourages high consumer consumption habits and cheap clothing has a shorter life cycle, leading to more textile waste. Materialistic consumers purchase large amounts of apparel with a lack of knowledge of textile recycling. This study will investigate the relationship between fast fashion consumers shopping behavior and disposal practices. Content analysis of social media marketing and promotions, fast fashion retailers, H&M, Forever 21, and Zara will give insight into consumer knowledge of textile disposal habits. Reviewing campaigns from said fast fashion retailers will be utilized for analysis of the target customer. In addition to the content analysis, the study will use a quantitative survey method consisting of questions pertaining to the knowledge of fast fashion shopping behaviors and textile disposal practices. Findings from this study will show that the more consumers shop at fast fashion retailers, the less likely they are to recycle their purchases. Furthermore, the survey and content analysis will demonstrate the lack of education of recycling services and processes from fast fashion retailers. If consumers frequently shop at fast fashion retailers then they are less likely to recycle their clothing. Overall, this study aims to find a connection between frequent fast fashion consumers and unknowledgeable textile recycling habits, while looking to improve fast fashion retailers educating consumers about textile recycling programs and ways to combat textile waste. |
[MERCH] Ethical and Sustainable Cotton Initiatives in the Fashion Industry: Are Consumer Purchase Decisions Influenced by Corporate Education Strategies?04/09/2019In today’s retail climate where corporate social responsibility is not only desired but expected of companies, consumers are increasingly aware of how the products they purchase are produced. Despite efforts from companies to adopt sustainability policies, actively employing change within internal systems, specifically related to cotton-based products, continues to be challenging. With a growing emphasis on creating a transparent supply chain that allows consumers to understand the production process, fashion companies have employed education initiatives focused on informing their customers about the steps they take to be ethically, socially, and environmentally responsible. The goal of this case study is to determine whether the educational resources and initiatives presented to consumers from retail companies surrounding their sustainable cotton initiatives affect potential consumer purchase decisions. In order to find the relationship between consumer education and purchase decisions, we will conduct exploratory research investigating companies who actively educate their customers about their sustainable cotton initiatives. By analyzing product reviews related to sustainable products and initiatives, we expect to find that consumers who are educated about sustainable cotton initiatives are more inclined to purchase sustainable and ethical products. Additionally, we anticipate educated consumers to continually support companies within the cotton industry that work to educate their customers on their corporate social responsibility. Overall, we hope to find a positive relationship between a company’s efforts in promoting their initiatives and heightened consumer awareness of sustainable products offered by the company, therefore increasing potential purchase decisions that lead to a lighter environmental footprint within the industry. |
[MERCH] Genetically Engineered (GE) vs. Organic Cotton: Does consumer awareness impact purchase decisions?04/09/2019As technology continues to advance, transparency of companies’ supply chains have increased in importance. With this advance in technology comes controversial methods of cotton production, including Genetically Engineered (GE) cotton, as well as improvements in sustainability through the growth of organic cotton. Awareness of the social and environmental effects of genetically engineered cotton is a crucial component in the consumer’s purchasing process. This study plans to analyze consumer awareness of the type of cotton used, GE or organic cotton, and whether or not it effects their desire to purchase a specific product or from a certain brand. We will use a survey method to gather data and opinions in regards to consumer purchasing habits. In order to gather this data, college students aged 18-22 who are newly responsible for their clothing purchasing decisions will be surveyed. Questions will pertain to their awareness and knowledge of GE cotton and other sustainable initiatives occurring in the cotton industry. The results of this study are expected to show that there is low consumer awareness of GE cotton and its negative social and environmental effects, but when these impacts are brought to the consumers attention, they are less likely to purchase GE cotton products. However, the study predicts the average consumer is aware of the use of organic cotton and they are more likely to purchase products that promote the use of organic cotton over other sustainable fibers. This research will be completed with the end goal of educating consumers on the differences between GE and organic cotton as well as the positive and negative attributes that contribute to social and environmental impacts. Subsequently, conducting this research study will provide substantial insight on the cotton industry, increase consumer awareness, and educate buyers in hopes of leading them to make more conscious purchasing decisions. |
[MERCH] Knowledge of Sustainability and How it Affects Consumer Purchasing Decisions04/09/2019[MERCH] With technology at our fingertips 24/7, consumers have access to the sustainable initiatives retailers are incorporating into their business models. As sustainability in the fashion industry becomes a prevalent topic in the media, it starts to become a priority in the mind of consumers. By adapting and refocusing efforts to promote positive change and transparency, the fashion industry can decrease the size of its environmental footprint. To increase initiatives, fashion retailers are partnering with organizations such as the Textile Exchange, which promotes sustainable cotton and textiles, with an aim to push environmentally friendly production. The purpose of this study is to analyze if a consumer’s knowledge of sustainable practices is positively correlated to purchasing sustainable apparel. This study will use a quantitative survey method to research the level of knowledge and understanding the average consumer has regarding sustainability and whether they apply this knowledge when they are shopping for apparel. We plan to analyze and organize this research using descriptive methods to focus on demographics and psychographics that are associated with sustainable shoppers. In conclusion, we expect to find that consumers who are knowledgeable of sustainable practices are likely to purchase and even pay more for brands that are transparent about their environmental efforts. This will provide valuable information for the fashion industry as retailers continue to push sustainable practices and educate and encourage consumers to make thoughtful purchases in the future. |
1929 in Spain: An Analysis of the Barcelona International Exposition and Ibero-American Exposition04/09/2019Between its loss of empire in 1898 and the middle of the twentieth century, Spain oscillated between historicism and modernism in architecture. Ideas about looking back at iconic projects (such as the Barcelona and Seville Cathedrals) contrast with ambitious forward-thinking in construction, creating a cultural, regional, and generational schism. This debate was evident in two international exhibitions: the Ibero-American Exposition (IAE) in Seville, and the Barcelona International Exposition (BIE), both of which were constructed for 1929. While the Seville Exhibit recalled Spain's bygone glory as an Imperial power, the Barcelona Exhibit looked forward to modern ideas and international connections. This paper will analyze these two expos and answer questions about the inspirations behind and implications of each, particularly when considering historicism and modernism. This topic is particularly important due to the nature of the exhibitions, both of which were hugely influential in the development of Spanish architecture over the course of the next few decades. The Seville and Barcelona exhibits were pivotal moments in Spanish architectural history, and should be examined in context and connection, rather than isolated events. Although there has been some research on each exhibition individually, there are few papers that relate them to each other and to their historical implications. To show meaning and connection between each exhibition, this paper will consult period Spanish journal articles (such as Arquitectura or A.C. Documentos) and travel documents (such as Evelyn Waugh’s 1930 book Labels) as well as historiographical accounts. |
A 2-Approximation Algorithm for the Online Tethered Coverage Problem04/09/2019We consider the problem of covering an unknown planar environment possibly containing obstacles using a robot of square size D × D attached to a fixed point S by a cable of finite length L. The environment is structured as a cell layout with resolution proportional to the robot size D × D, imposed on it. Starting at S, the task for the robot is to visit each cell of the environment (not occupied by obstacles) and return to S with the cable fully retracted. In a single time step, the robot can move from one cell to one of its four adjacent cells. The cable length of L allows the robot to visit a cell that is at distance at most L (i.e., ⌊L/D⌋ cells in the environment at increasing distance) from S. Our goal is to minimize the total distance traveled by the robot to fully cover the unknown environment avoiding tangling the cable. In this paper, we present the first online tethered coverage path planning algorithm that achieves 2- approximation for the total distance traveled by the robot compared to the distance traveled using an optimal offline algorithm. Our algorithm guarantees that the cable never tangles. Moreover, our algorithm significantly improves the 2L/D-approximation achieved by the best previously known algorithm designed for this problem. Furthermore, we show that there are instances for which no on- line algorithm achieves better than 2-approximation, which implies that our algorithm is essentially optimal. Simulation experiments illustrate the usefulness and efficiency of our proposed algorithm. |
A 32 Base Pair Deletion in CCR5 Receptor and its Role in the Inhibition of HIV04/09/2019Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can be transmitted by infected individuals through sexual fluids, blood, and breast milk. It functions to weaken the immune system by targeting healthy CD4 cells and in turn, impedes the body’s ability to fight minor infections. In order to infect the host, the virus must first bind to a CD4 receptor followed by binding of a co-receptor; either CCR5 or CXCR4. A specific mutation to the CCR5 receptor at position D32, results in a 32 base pair deletion and hypothesized to inhibit expression of the CCR5 receptor on the cell surface of T-cells. It has been found that individuals who are homozygous for D32 mutation are resistant to HIV infection whereas those heterozygous for the mutation exhibit a slower onset of symptoms. We used the gene editing tool CRISPR/Cas9 to target and cut specific sequences on the CCR5 gene that are believed to prevent receptor presentation of the surface of T-cells. We expect that only HIV that can utilize CXCR4 as a co-receptor would be able to infect CCR5 knock out cells. |
A Fuel Cell System04/09/2019In the US and around the globe, over 60% of our electricity is from burning fossil fuels. Fuel cells can be twice as efficient and have the potential to dramatically change the way electricity is generated. When hydrogen and oxygen meet on the electrolyte plate, a catalyst spurs a reaction that creates H2O and electricity, without greenhouse emissions. Emissions can be generated through obtaining hydrogen, but with significantly less greenhouse gases and higher fuel-energy conversion. There is a unique opportunity to study a large commercial fuel cell, a 150 Kilowatt Fuel Cell Module (FCM). This FCM was donated by a company represented by the letter B*, per a Non-Disclosure Agreement. The FCM weighs 720 pounds and works with 9 other units to create one megawatt of power. 1 unit is disassembled. The Objective of this project is to understand gas distribution, exhaust and operating conditions, focusing on the flow of hydrogen, oxygen and water in the module. To achieve this objective, the 150 kW FCM will be dissembled and mapped. All parts taken out will be identified and reassembled. |
A Longitudinal Investigation of Cognitive Symptoms and Cognitive Performance in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus04/09/2019Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem inflammatory autoimmune disease that manifests in physical symptoms and central nervous system impairment. Cognitive impairment in SLE is difficult to define and can be affected by several variables such as stress and anxiety. We surveyed three participants diagnosed with SLE over a period of ten weeks, measuring cognitive and physical symptoms via inventories, multiple environmental variables, such as temperature and sunlight exposure, and cognitive ability on tasks of working memory, short term memory, and inhibition. Self-reported cognitive symptoms did not correlate with cognitive performance on several memory tasks. However, cognitive symptoms were strongly correlated with physical symptoms, negative affect, diet, stress, sunlight exposure, and anxiety. Tasks of inhibition were influenced by sunlight exposure. |
A naturalistic observation of participation in upper and lower division classes04/09/2019Participation is a crucial part of learning. It is important for students to express their opinions and ask questions to enhance their knowledge of the topic. The current study is a longitudinal naturalistic observational study of ten different classrooms at Kent State over a period of five weeks. We hypothesize that students will participate more in upper division compared to lower division classes. Data collection is ongoing and will conclude in the middle of March. |
A Study of Form04/09/2019DESIGN As a senior fashion design major, this research project was conducted in the form of a senior collection. The thesis collection explores the relationship between architecture and fashion design; investigating the challenges of creating garments with sculptural and architectural forms. In order to explore the relationship between fashion design and architecture, it was first necessary to gain an understanding of the field of architecture, including historical movements and governing rules and principles. With a basic understanding of the field, comparisons were made between the process of designing buildings and garments, identifying characteristics of the design process that overlap across the two industries. The approach to designing garments started with analyzing the forms of various buildings and posing the questions, “What if this form was placed on the human body? How could it be adapted for movement?” A key component to designing clothing based on architecture is the selection of materiality. Research was conducted to evaluate which fabrics and construction techniques were best suited to achieve structure and body. Two rounds of muslins were created to test and revise each garment’s construction. The final collection is a reflection of thorough research and experimentation on the study of integrating the fields of fashion design and architecture. |
Active Particles under Spatially Variant External Driving Fields04/09/2019
Maia Pancost, Madison Wolf, Qi-Huo Wei Department of Physics, and Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242 Active particles, also known as self-propelled Brownian particles, can convert the energy of their surroundings into directed motion. Driven by the constant source of external energy, systems of these active particles are usually out of equilibrium, and thus behave differently from these equilibrium systems made of passive particles. The overall goal of this project is to explore the potential to controlling active systems by structured external fields. Here we use numerical simulations based on Langevin equations to study the behavior of single active particle subject to spatially variant external driving field. The environment will be minimal at first, just focusing on a spherical particle with only a random force acting on it. The final code will include a rod-shaped particle surrounded by similar particles, as well as the possible interactions between those particles and extraneous barriers placed throughout the environment. The movement and interactions of these particles in the coded environment will be analyzed and compared to the real life movement of these particles.
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Altered adhesion and cellular morphology in Down syndrome fibroblasts04/09/2019Down Syndrome is a complex developmental disorder resulting from the triplication of human chromosome 21. There are many phenotypes of Down Syndrome including distinct facial features, slow wound healing, and intellectual disability. However, our understanding of the mechanisms underlying these phenotypes is limited. Here, we used fibroblasts from individuals that are apparently healthy (euploid fibroblasts) and have Down Syndrome (T21 fibroblasts) to examine changes in cellular morphology and adhesion. We found that there was a significant increase in area and perimeter of the T21 fibroblasts. Because cellular morphology is regulated by adhesion complexes, we next examined focal adhesions, which link the extracellular matrix to the intracellular cytoskeleton. Focal adhesions are made up of many proteins, including paxillin, receptor for activated C kinase 1 (RACK1), vinculin, and talin. We found that all of these proteins were significantly increased in T21 fibroblasts. This implies that there are more focal adhesions in Down Syndrome, which affects cellular morphology and motility. We are currently knocking-down the expression of RACK1 and paxillin to determine if this can rescue the cellular morphology defects in T21 fibroblasts. Notably, these results also have implications for neurons, which use similar mechanisms to regulate cell motility. We have previously demonstrated that overexpression of adhesion proteins in neurons results in decreased axon length, and this could alter neuronal connectivity and contribute to the intellectual disability phenotype of Down Syndrome. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underlying the altered morphology and adhesion in Down syndrome provides important knowledge about multiple phenotypes of this disorder. |
An Integrated Review of the Literature Concerning Ohio Abortion Legislation04/09/2019Introduction: The impact of current abortion legislation is of concern to many Ohioans and their health care providers. Abortion Regulation changed during the 132cd Ohio Congress. This project seeks to understand the themes regarding changes in abortion regulation in Ohio and the potential health impact on those seeking abortion as an important first step in developing an evidence based approach to patient care. Methods: A literature review including a selective Legiscan search, two independent CINAHL searches and a Google Scholar search were analyzed for historical significance and identification of themes. Results: Ohio legislation has been consistent with other states regarding regulation of abortion. Recent changes moved Ohio to a more restrictive regulatory approach. Impact of these legislative requirements is emerging. Themes related to the provision of health care include: social determinants, access, safety of woman and child, contraception, regulatory barriers, mental health, and stratified legitimacy. Discussion: Abortion rates in Ohio have decreased since 2014. The cause of the decrease and the impact of recent legislation is unknown. Health literature identifies that negative emotional, financial and physical outcomes remain consistent in families who seek abortion in the face of prescriptive regulation. Conclusion: Regulation of abortion has mental health, physical and financial consequences on the families of Ohio. Understanding the lived experience of women facing the decision of abortion is a next step in understanding the health related sequale secondary to that regulation. Key words: (abortion, regulation, law, impact, health, consequences) |
An Investigation of Russian Law and Legal Translation04/09/2019With the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Russian legal system opened up for study in the West. However, there is little research of Russian legal theory, and translation available in English. As legal translators, it is apparent that legal documents are not created in a vacuum, but are products of the culture’s history and values. And, in order to translate these documents, translators must be aware of the source culture’s legal tradition and how it manifests itself into the documents. Under the guidance of Dr. Tatyana Bystrova I engaged in a multi part systematic analysis of Russian law and legal texts. First, I extensively researched Russian history, culture, and linguistics, and found its basis in Russian law. Second, I translated many different legal documents from Bills of Sale to the Russian Constitution. Then, I analyzed these documents and qualitatively compared them against their American counterparts. Finally, I detailed how these above factors impact the documents. This research demonstrated the complexities of Russian legal theory and its implications for students of legal translation. Many translation students primarily study broad translation theory, which is taught amongst students studying various language pairs. But, they may lack education in advanced practical applications of theory, especially in an esoteric subset of translation. This research aims to provide this practical demonstration. By undertaking this research future legal translators are able to have a strong corpus of legal texts to which they can refer during their education. |
Analysis of Duplication Events and Copy Number Differences in Macaque Y-chromosomal Genes04/09/2019Why are some genes multi-copy? In some organisms an additional gene copy with the same function may increase protein product output. In others, the subfunctionalization or neofunctionalization of a duplicated ancestral gene confers an advantage. In the case of the non-recombining Y-chromosome, the transposition of these duplicated genes is of particular interest due to the lack of research into the underlying mechanisms. It has been hypothesized that an autosomal CDYL gene is the progenitor of the Y-chromosome chromodomain (CDY) genes, created via duplication and retrotransposition events. To investigate whether CDY copy number may be associated with increased fitness in primates, we have designed a Copy Number Variation (CNV) assay, and applied it to samples of two macaque monkey species, Macaca mulatta and M. fascicularis. Hybridization of the species has led to Y-chromosome introgression from the former into the latter. We hypothesize the successful introgression may be due to a greater CDY copy number because this gene plays a major role in chromatin condensation in the testes. More CDY output would lead to increased sperm production – a distinct advantage in animals that experience significant sperm competition, like macaques. We believe further investigation of Y-chromosomal genes will reveal a similar history of autosomal gene duplication and transposition events, likely evolutionarily maintained by increased fitness. |
Analysis of fluctuation in algal communities and temperature throughout the Holocene in Sluice Pond, MA through Spectroscopy of a lake sediment core04/09/2019Sluice Pond (Lynn, MA, USA), has experienced fluctuations in algal communities and temperature. Throughout the Holocene, based on measurements from a sediment core raised from its anoxic central basin, changes in these proxies related to properties can be depicted. The variability in the core’s composition can be studied using wavelet analysis of Visible Derivative Spectroscopy signals extracted by varimax-rotated, principal component analysis (VPCA). This information is plotted against time using an AMS 14C constrained age model. The temporal history provides insight into the extent of preserved natural and human events. Thirteen separate constituents were present in the core, as mixtures of six different orthogonal (or independent) VPCA components that account for 97.1% of the variance in the data set. A detailed look at two of the components is presented in this project. They were plotted against the age model to show changes in relative concentration of 6VPCA1 showing algal blooms and turbidity (related to: Chlorite, Smectite, and phycocyanin), and 6VPCA4 used to indicate temperature (related to: Hematite and Goethite). The components oscillate with dominant periods of 4 ka and 7 ka, respectively. Major climate events such as the Younger Dryas and the 8.2-kiloyear event are represented in the data and in the past 200 years, the data shows fluctuations increasing dramatically. The data and methods used in this project give a representation of the natural variance over the Holocene and forms timelines that allow for a better understanding for the past and reference for the future. |
Ancient Greek Armor04/09/2019Ancient Greek Armor This semester I will be researching and compiling information to do with Ancient Greek armor as part of the Athens Experience theater course, where we will travel to Athens, Greece, from March 23rd until the 30th, in order to do on-site research. As a Costume Design major, it is important for me to have a good understanding of historical attire, and be able to analyze it through a historical lens, and see how it has impacted modern fashions. My research is a passion project, with the goal of getting an in-depth view of the history of armor between the beginning of the Trojan War c.1260 BC, and into the Peloponnesian War in 401 BC. Armor -although Greeks were participants in some of the most famous wars in history- is not what usually comes to mind when discussing Ancient Greece, for this reason I’d like to explore this topic. I wish to learn how armor evolved through that time, along with the crafting techniques, symbolism in design, and whether it influenced other fashions. |
Ancient Greek Technology in Warfare04/09/2019Researcher: Alex Heffner Presentation Title: Ancient Greek Technology in War School: Kent State University Type: Poster Presentation The purpose of this study was to travel to Athens, Greece and study ancient Greek technology in war on-site in addition to research completed prior to the trip in order to develop the research further with first-hand knowledge and experiences. This study shows the influence the Grecians have had in developing technology as a precursor to contemporary technology, specifically in warfare. The Grecians were one of the first people to figure out how to create some of the earliest technology we have seen in humanity, specifically in warfare. Some of these included, triremes, phalanx or spears, and catapults which were used to assist them in invading their enemies. The Greeks continued to establish new ways to further their country and their culture however they could, and are even responsible for the oldest known analog computer, which tracked the astronomical positions of the planets. There have been several great engineers who have emerged from the Greek culture and went on to influence other cultures, such as, Philon of Byzantium and Heron of Alexandria. Since then we have taken the influence of Greek technology and advanced it decades further into the weaponry and technology we have today. And while we as the United States have advanced technologically in things such as warfare, it all started with the Greeks. |
Ancient Greek Visual Rhetoric Experience04/09/2019In my trip to Athens alongside my Theatre, Performance, Gender, and Sexuality in Greek History class, I plan to study gender-nonconformity, pederasty (and other various homoerotic relationships), and creatures that exist in Ancient Greek Civilization and mythological culture. I am a sculptor, and in my current stages of art-making as a student here at Kent State University, I find myself exploring the concepts of the humanity, bodily dysmorphia, gender identity, and modern sexual ideologies in which I will continue to experience as a queer person. I will explore a new visual rhetoric that can be applied to my own artmaking in terms of design (such as: moods, patterns, textures, colors, shapes, weights) and concept by documenting literal pieces of art or folklore relating to homoeroticism and creature-mythology, in addition to relevant iconic architectural-structure and costume aesthetics. For my creative project, I am planning on creating a piece of fine art that is influenced by the techniques and concepts that I will have had gathered from this trip. While in Athens, I plan to study specifically at the National Archeological Museum, The National Art Museum, The Benaki Museum, and Museum of Modern Greek Culture. |
Application of Occlusion Training04/09/2019Researcher: Alexander Wilk Presentation Title: Application of Occlusion Training Research Focus: Exercise Science Schools: Kent State University
Abstract: We assessed the occlusion pressure of and the variables that may affect it from day to day in order to help improve prescribed pressures for exercise prescription. 8 subjects with no known cardiovascular or metabolic diseases were analyzed. Each session was 48 hours apart and measured occlusion pressure, blood pressure and arm circumference. Subjects were also questioned about there. Last exercise session, last meal, last dose of caffeine and time the woke up. Amongst the subjects a trend between blood pressure and occlusion pressure was noted but not for all cases. Further studies on occlusion pressure with larger subjects’ pools looking at time of day as well as the effects of external variables maybe necessary to explain unexplained changes in pressures. |
ASSESSING THE PATCH DYNAMICS OF ORGANIC MATTER DECOMPOSITION AND RESPIRATION USING COTTON STRIPS04/09/2019Stream ecosystems are complex systems where a range of process rates can be measured at multiple scales. Organic matter decomposition is a spatially variable process, and a patch dynamics perspective may provide an effective method of understanding variability in stream ecosystem function. Using a cotton-strip assay, decomposition and respiration rates were measured in diverse substrate and flow patches within a 100-meter reach of Breakneck Creek in Kent, Ohio. Cotton strips were placed at three depths in each of twelve sites representing silt to gravel substrate size. Strips were removed after 2-4 weeks and tensile strength and respiration rates were measured. Strips in coarse substrate decomposed faster when placed higher in the water column, but strips in patches of fine substrate decomposed at the same rate regardless of water column placement. These results show that differences in organic matter processing in different patches can be explained by substrate size and flow velocity. By understanding these mechanistic relationships between physical conditions and process rates, we gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between smaller scale environments to entire streams and watersheds. |
At the Crossroads of Research and Community Engagement: The North Hill Listening Project04/09/2019Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed, published in 1968, distinguishes two models of education: the traditional “banking” model, in which information is imparted on students by a teacher of a higher status, and one in which all participants co-create knowledge together as equals. The dominance of the “banking” model in Western education systems extends to research practices. Many institutions are beginning to recognize the importance of collaboration between researchers and practitioners. However, in community-based research, the paradigm that research and practice are separate processes, with knowledge being generated by academics and used by community practitioners, can prevent transcendence from the “banking” model into a collaborative and egalitarian one. Though long-established, such a divide between research and community practice is not necessary. In the 1980s Rural Southern Voices for Peace began using community-led listening projects as a tool to address racism in North Carolina. Listening projects have since been used to generate information about community challenges, ranging from identity conflict to environmental policy, while simultaneously addressing those challenges. We examine the process and impacts of the North Hill Listening Project, which was conducted as a collaboration between The International Institute of Akron and Kent State University’s School of Peace and Conflict Studies, to show how listening projects can be a method for academics to co-create and use knowledge with community members. |
Attachment Styles and their Influence on Communal Strength, Life Satisfaction and Emotions04/09/2019Communal strength is the motivation to meet a partner’s needs without expecting anything in return. In the current study, we examined if the association between communal strength, life satisfaction or positive and negative affect depends on the attachment styles of people in romantic relationships. 78 dating couples completed questionnaires about their own communal strength, life satisfaction, positive and negative affect, and attachment styles. Our analysis results indicated that the effects of communal strength on life satisfaction and positive affect do not differ based on people’s attachment styles. The effects of communal strength on negative affect did not differ based on people’s attachment avoidance; however, the effects of communal strength on negative affect depended on people’s attachment anxiety. Specifically, for people with low attachment anxiety, higher communal strength predicted lower negative affect. Thus, for individuals who feel secure in their relationship, motivation to respond to partner’s needs results in less negative feelings. In contrast, for people with high attachment anxiety, higher communal strength was not associated with negative affect. Hence, people with high attachment anxiety may not experience all of the benefits of higher communal strength. Attachment style research is important for studying positive and negative affect of individuals in relationships, exploring how interactions occur between people in a relationship and will aid in the advancement of long-standing questions of how attachment behavior affects adults later in life. |
Beginning, Middle, End: When do Students Participate More?04/09/2019Class participation is the backbone of what defines a good student. Over the course of five weeks, we will observe ten different face-to-face, 75 minute long undergraduate level classes for a total of 80 class sessions. We will track the frequency, location, time, and type of student participation in each class. We hypothesize that the middle period of class time is when participation rates will peak, compared to the beginning or end of class time. Data collection is ongoing and will conclude in mid-March. |
Best Practices in Musical Theatre Audition Material Location and Selection04/09/2019Alyssa Massey Research Symposium April 2019 Principal Investigator: Professor Fabio Polanco Best Practices in Musical Theatre Audition Material Location and Selection Universally acknowledged as a less than perfect form of evaluation, the audition remains the standard and best vehicle for artistic personnel to determine an actor’s appropriateness for a role. This is true for musical theatre, just as it is for all other areas of the industry. As a result, locating and selecting effective audition material is a central concern for the musical theatre actor, for it plays a significant role in their ability to secure employment and establish and sustain a successful career. There are many books and articles offering advice on musical theatre auditioning and material selection. However, this advice usually comes from the anecdotal experience of a single author and a few of his or her colleagues. This study investigates the best practices for finding and selecting effective musical theatre material by surveying actors on where they find their audition material, how they select the material, and how successful they had been using this material in actual auditions situations. The results identify trends in material location and selection and provide insights into the most important criteria to consider in order to increase the likelihood of finding and selecting effective musical theatre audition material. |
BHMT expression constructs in neurons to determine if betaine increases H3K4me3 levels by activating BHMT activity04/09/2019Decreased mitochondrial respiratory capacity has been reported in multiple sclerosis (MS), and evidence suggests a connection between the methionine metabolism cycle and this respiration. In the methionine metabolism cycle, enzyme betaine homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT) is involved in converting homocysteine to methionine, with betaine acting as the methyl donor. Importantly, betaine has been reported in lower amounts in MS cortex, and betaine supplementation has even been shown to rescue mitochondrial respiratory capacity. The purpose of this study was to further investigate the role of nutrigenomics in MS by confirming the importance of the enzyme BHMT in the entrance of betaine into the methionine metabolism cycle. We made BHMT expression constructs that will be looked at in primary neurons. These constructs are wild type (WT) and BHMT mutant constructs that don’t have enzymatic activity. We will transfect these in neurons, treat with betaine, and measure levels of H3K4me3 by Western Blot to determine if betaine is increasing H3K4me3 by activating BHMT activity. |
BHMT in Multiple Sclerosis Pathology: Remyelination of Axons04/09/2019In demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), the loss of myelin disrupts axonal conduction within the central nervous system (CNS), eventually leading to the irreversible deterioration of axons and progression of neurological disability. DNA methylation plays a critical role in regulating gene expression in various neurological pathways, including pathways that drive neurodegeneration in MS. S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), a metabolite in the methionine cycle, is involved in numerous methylation reactions within cells, including on histones and DNA. SAM is downregulated in MS, resulting in decreased gene expression, but can be restored by betaine homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT) and the BHMT - betaine methylation pathway. Further, studies have shown that DNA methyltransferase 3a (Dnmt3a) is dependent on SAM and is necessary for remyelination. Therefore, the focus of this study was to elucidate the interaction between BHMT and Dnmt3a and provide insight into how BHMT can affect remyelination mechanistically. This study will assist in the investigation of the impact of epigenetic changes and MS pathology. |
Biodegradable Cotton and Consumer Behavior04/09/2019MERCH - In our research we studied consumer beliefs and knowledge on the issues of apparel disposal and biodegradability to determine if these were marketable apparel characteristics. We used content analysis to build a library of consumer comment data based on the concepts that emerged as most prevalent throughout our literature research. We used both priori and interactive coding, then taking these results to create a survey that targeted the information we still lacked as well as getting more direct consumer feedback in regards to specific topics. We used many likert scale questions to gauge our populations thoughts in feelings in our survey which was shared with snowball distribution. Our biggest takeaway was that young consumers were more likely to be informed on the issues of biodegradability and clothing disposal and would be susceptible to marketing based on these concepts. |
Biological Components of Green Roofs: How do these effect the water quality of runoff?04/09/2019The increasing urbanization of land has produced expansive amounts of impervious surfaces, therefore producing greater quantities of runoff as the water from weather events cannot be absorbed. This runoff may carry pollutants from the surrounding area into the water system and negatively impact the water quality. A possible solution for reducing runoff from impervious surfaces is green roofs, which can absorb and filter water. To determine a green roof’s effects on the surrounding environment, a test site was built in Cleveland, Ohio. This site contains 39 test plots that differ in combinations of plant community type (restoration or horticultural), substrate type (quasi-traditional, conventional, or movable meadow), and the presence of mycorrhizae, along with empty control plots. The movable meadows were uniquely designed to capture the rainwater passing through the soil within an inner system to be reused, whereas the other plots were designed to allow the water to pass through the system and be released. Water samples were collected from each plot and the levels of nitrate, ammonium, and phosphorous were tested. It was found that plant community type had a significant effect on the total nitrogen in the runoff (p=0.0015). Across treatments, phosphorous levels were consistently greater than the high value of 1.00 mg/L, which we believe is due to the presence of substrate and not related to the substrate type itself. This is important when addressing the potential of green roofs to cause downstream water quality issues and detract from their perceived benefits. |
Brainchild: Literary Magazine as Showcase of Creative Work and Learning Experience04/09/2019As the literary and arts magazine based at the Kent State University Honors College which publishes the work of honors students at schools in the Mid-East Honors Association region, Brainchild strives to share the best art created by these students with our community and beyond. Our mission is also to provide our staff of interdisciplinary students with invaluable experience editing and designing a literary magazine. Our design team members review visual submissions and our editors review literary submissions, giving us the opportunity to learn from each other within our teams as we discuss each submission. We also consider how each piece fits our idea of what we want Brainchild to embody. Once we’ve selected the pieces we want to include, we collectively develop the layout of the magazine and decide how best to create a cohesive collection which also equally showcases each work. Copies of the publication are available free of charge around the Kent State campus, providing students the opportunity to engage with the work of their peers and fostering inspiration, pride and possibility throughout the Kent State community. Brainchild publishes one annual issue of our magazine, but we engage with our readers and our community year-round through events such as poetry readings cohosted with other literary organizations at Kent State. Members of our teams also attend literary conferences across the country to learn from other artists and magazines and to share Brainchild with a wider audience. |
Burning hot! The effects of fire and soil space on eastern redcedars, Juniperus virginiana04/09/2019Burning hot! The effects of fire and soil space on eastern redcedars, Juniperus virginiana One of the most effective ways to control invasive species is by burning. Unfortunately, this strategy causes potential damage to property, and may not be entirely effective. We examined the effectiveness of burning on the redistribution of nutrients in eastern redcedars, Juniperus virginiana, a native invasive species in Ohio. We hypothesized that burned trees will re-allocate their nutrients for storage and will have higher concentrations of nonstructural carbohydrates and nitrogen belowground than aboveground. Furthermore, plants frequently contain a higher biomass when grown with a larger amount of soil. Consequently, we hypothesize that trees planted in larger pots with more soil will contain more nutrients and a higher biomass than trees that are planted in smaller pots. We found that control group trees contained a higher overall biomass than burned cedars (p = 0.026). Likewise, trees grown in large pots contained more nutrients than those grown in small pots (p < 0.001). Surprisingly, there was no difference in the amount of nutrients between the burned and control trees. In conclusion, we found that fire decreases the overall biomass of eastern redcedars but does not affect their nutrient re-allocation. Furthermore, trees planted in larger pots contain more nutrients than those in smaller pots. |
Can Outlook towards the future help predict an adolescent's ability to work?04/09/2019Some criminal theorists have posited that allowing delinquent teens the ability to work a job decreases delinquent behavior. However, research on the topic remains mixed with some researchers reporting that working a job places extra stress on an adolescent and may encourage further delinquent acts. Criminal theorists have also indicated that one aspect related to curbing criminal behavior, lies in strengthening the ties a potential criminal has with their community. This study seeks to understand how an adolescents perceived outlook on life, relates to their ability to work and handle stress. This study hypothesizes that, the higher a student’s outlook towards the future, the better they will be at coping with stress. Conversely, we believe that the better a student is at coping with stress, the less likely are to struggle with problems related to delinquent school behavior. However, we also predict that the higher a student’s stress level, and subsequent lower outlook towards the future, the more likely they are to have a job, and the more likely they are to report that they have issues related to delinquent behavior in school. Utilizing publicly accessible data, we hope to produce findings that would be of some use to researchers seeking to further explore this topic among adolescent populations currently within juvenile detention facilities. We also hope that this research in some way may be of use to individuals within the criminal justice system as they develop new intervention methods for adolescents within the juvenile justice system. |
Care and the White Coat: Perceptions of Clinical Empathy Among Pre-Med Students04/09/2019Clinical empathy is generally defined in medical sociology as a provider’s ability to 1) understand a patient’s situation, perspective, and feelings, 2) communicate that understanding and check its accuracy, and 3) act on that understanding with the patient in a helpful way (Mercer and Reynolds 2002). A large body of evidence suggests that patients value clinical empathy in their physicians as much as clinical competence (Zinn 1993). Furthermore, clinical empathy is directly correlated with decreased anxiety in patients (Halpern 2003) and may positively contribute to clinical outcomes in other diseases (Hojat et al. 2011). However, quantitative studies (using the Jefferson Scale) have shown that clinical empathy decreases during medical school, especially during third-year clinical rotations and continuing through residency (Underman and Hirshfield 2016). This study, using a mixed-method design, aims to determine if education during pre-medical years factors into this trajectory. Pre-med students (n = 30-35) at a public midwestern university were interviewed and surveyed about their understanding of clinical empathy, as well as stressors that may negatively impact it. In this presentation, I present qualitative findings from the first phase of this longitudinal project. I demonstrate that students perceive the core pre-med curriculum as unconducive to empathy, and that the “speed-up of learning” phenomenon may promote peer competition, seen as antithetical to clinical empathy. |
Changes in Water Source in Urban Streams as a Response to Storms04/09/2019GEOL - Urban streams are complex and interesting. They are equally as important too because people are living right besides them. Understanding where the water comes from in urban streams is useful because we could learn a lot about pollution dynamics, as well as gauge how effective the stormwater management efforts are in the area. In urban areas, high amounts of rainfall are directed into the streams by manmade impervious surfaces: roads, roofs, storm drains, etc. Because of this, urban streams should mostly consist of “new” rain water, with a smaller percent of “old” pre-event water. However, the data collected from 3 urban streams from a storm in August show that the stormflow may not be primarily from rain water. Samples were collected during 4 storms between August and September using an ISCO autosampler. The samples were filtered, stored, and then analyzed on a Picarro for isotope ratios of hydrogen and oxygen within the water. The proportions of old and new water will be determined through isotope hydrograph separation. Our original hypothesis may not be correct for a few reasons. Our data used a mixture of the event’s rainwater. As storms progress, they generally become isotopically less negative. Collecting multiple rain samples during the storm instead of a collective one could have led to our unexpected data. Using a HYSPLIT model, we can attempt to correct this. Another explanation is that ponds and wetlands need to fill up before they overflow and release water into streams, resulting in a lagged response. If this was possible, it could help to explain our data. Our results have shown that the chemistry and origins of the stream water is more complex than previously thought. Urban streams are important to study because they flow through our towns and by our houses, and a better understanding would improve our neighborhoods. |
Characterization of Luteinizing Hormone Location and Production in the Brain04/09/2019Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a heterodimeric glycoprotein gonadotropin that has long been known to play a critical role in reproduction and has recently been linked to changes in cognition and plasticity, especially as LH levels change in the aging process. While researchers have begun to understand some of the effects luteinizing hormone has in the brain, much remains to be explored. Specifically, studies have identified LH protein in several brain regions but it is not clear where it is produced. This study uses hybridization chain reaction in situ hybridization (HCR-FISH) in the mouse brain to identify and localize LH mRNA transcripts. In situ results were combined with immunohistochemistry and rtPCR results to provide a cohesive understanding of where LH is produced versus distributed. Furthermore, analysis of single cell RNA sequencing data identifies what types of cells are responsible for producing LH in regions of interest and suggests possible mechanisms for LH involvement in plasticity. This localization provides a foundation for further experiments to understand the mechanism by which LH affects cognition and plasticity. |
Childhood Sleep Quality as a Moderating Variable Between Parental Influence and Child Emotional Eating04/09/2019
Introduction: Emotional eating (EE) in children has been linked to childhood obesity and may be predictive of parental over-involvement. Parental over-involvement relates to lower sleep quality in children, and short sleep duration also influences overeating. The current study will examine if sleep quality moderates an association between parental over-involvement and child EE. Methods: Parents (N=71; M age =43.4±.6.14 years) and children (N=71, M age =11.7±2.65) were recruited as part of a larger study examining neurocognitive functioning in children with and without anxiety. Child EE was measured using the Emotional Eating Scale for Children (EES-C). Parenting style was measured using the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire (APQ). Parent-reported child sleep quality was measured using the Sleep Disturbances Scale for Children (SDSC).
Results: A hierarchical multiple regression analysis was conducted. The APQ and SDSC scores were entered in step 1, and interaction term (APQ x SDSC) was entered in step 2. Both the initial model, F(2, 68) = .1.473, p = .236 and overall model with the interaction term were non-significant, F(3, 67) = .023, p = .410.
Discussion: A non-significant relationship was found between parental involvement, sleep, and EE. It is possible that other parenting practices (e.g., over-control) are more impactful on EE. Parents and children also may have been inaccurate in their estimate of sleep, over-involvement, and EE. This study demonstrates that the relationship between child EE and parenting is complex and should be studied from different directions. Future research should longitudinally examine different aspects of parenting on child EE. |
Chronic Pain Conditions as a Moderator between Pain Catastrophizing and Cognitive Functioning04/09/2019This study sought to investigate the relationship between cognitive functioning and chronic pain conditions in individuals seeking detoxification treatment. Previous research suggests that individuals with a chronic pain condition demonstrate neuropsychological impairment in attentional capacity and processing speed (Hart, Martelli, & Zasler, 2000). Pain catastrophizing has been found to predict the likelihood of cognitive complaints in participants with a diagnosed chronic pain condition (Roth, Geisser, Theisen-Goodvich, & Dixon, 2005). Further research suggests that those who self-report more somatic awareness have worse cognitive performance (Eccleston, Crombez, Aldrich, & Stannard, 1997). This study hypothesizes that having a chronic pain condition will moderate the relationship between pain catastrophizing and cognitive functioning, such that those with a chronic pain condition will demonstrate a stronger negative relationship compared to those without a chronic pain condition. Pain catastrophizing is assessed using the Pain Catastrophizing Scale and cognitive functioning is evaluated using the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), which includes measures of immediate memory, visuospatial/constructional skills, attention, and delayed memory. At this point, data analyses are still ongoing and results will be provided at the poster presentation. |
Clarifying the relationship between depressive symptoms and memory loss in older adults04/09/2019Objective: Numerous studies demonstrate that depressive symptoms are associated with poorer memory test performance in older adults. However, as most measures of depressive symptoms include items specific to subjective changes in cognitive function, it is unclear whether this association is due to symptom overlap or a more generalized effect of depression. We hypothesized that both subjective complaints of cognitive dysfunction and sadness would be associated with poorer performance on a validated memory measure. Participants and Methods: Neurocognitive testing data from 110 older adults (Mage = 81.1 +/- 6.2, 67% female) participating in a speech and memory study were used for the current analyses. Participants completed the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test – Revised (HVLT-R) as part of this larger protocol. Pearson correlation analyses were conducted to examine the potential associations between reported depressive symptoms and memory performance. Results: Consistent with past work, higher total GDS score was significantly associated with poorer HVLT-R learning (r=-0.23, p=0.02) and recall (r=-0.20, p=0.04). When looking at specific items, the GDS item reflecting greater memory complaint was significantly positively associated with better HVLT-R delayed recall (r=0.20, p=0.04) while GDS item reflecting greater sadness was significantly associated with worse HVLT-R learning (r=-0.24, p=.01). Conclusion: Analyses showed that both cognitive complaints and feelings of sadness were associated with poorer memory test performance in older adults. If replicated, such findings suggest that the relationship between depression and memory in past work is not specific to symptom overlap. |
Class Study App04/09/2019For many students, having a study group with their classmates is beneficial to their education. The following research was conducted for discovering whether or not students would be interested in Kent State University adding an app to their blackboard classes that would allow for controlled communication with their classmates to select and reserve study areas on campus for whomever in the class wishing to study together in a safe place. Our idea came about when we realized that some of us have encountered difficulties organizing study groups in our own classes. The logistics proved to be a great hassle: gathering everyone together, not knowing anyone’s schedules, having nowhere for all of us to go. Some of us found that we worked better in groups of people in the same class, learning the same material at the same time, rather than meeting with a tutor that seemingly knew it all already, or trying to get help from an SI. |
Classroom Size & Student Participation: How One Can Affect the Other04/09/2019A student’s experience of a class can be significantly influenced by the size of the class. One way in experience can be influenced is through participation, specifically when it comes to the answering and asking of questions. We are studying such an influence; namely, just how can classroom size affect student participation? In this study, we are naturally observing multiple classrooms to determine if student participation depends on the number of students present in the class. This is applied research, with quantitative data taken from the field. Class participation will be divided into eight separate categories: making a personal connection (PC), making a class connection (CC), asking a clarification question (CQ), asking an unrelated question (UQ), called on by instructor (CO), providing a personal opinion (PO), other (O), and group discussion (G). We have eight hypotheses concerning each of these categories. We hypothesize that larger classroom sizes will have (1) fewer PC’s, (2) fewer CC’s, (3) fewer CQ’s, (4) fewer UQ’s, (5) more CO’s, (6) fewer PO’s, (7) fewer O’s, and (8) fewer G’s. Data collection for this is ongoing and will conclude in mid-March. |
Communism or Oil? Why the United States Changed Iran Forever.04/09/2019In 1953 the United States, with the assistance of England, ousted the Prime Minister Mohammed Mossadegh and installed the Shah as ruler of Iran. This would have great significance in the future of the middle east and other scholars argue it is the root of modern terror. In my research I wanted to know why the United States agreed to help England to oust the Prime Minister. The United States had previously declined, asserting that a agreement should be made between the two countries to settle a oil dispute. In the end it was either the influence of resources, namely oil, that changed the United States original decision. Or it was the threat of communism in Iran. This was during the height of Cold War Tensions and for the United States that threat would be addressed more broadly worldwide after Eisenhower was elected President. |
Community/ School Garden04/09/2019We developed a community garden to enhance mental and physical health for residents and provide an opportunity to grow food while collaborating and building relationships within the community. The Walls Coalition surveyed community members in spring 2018 and began cleanup of an abandoned garden. The Coalition consists of KSU Community Based Public Health Practice class. This project brought together school, students, parents, neighbors, and the university to collaborate in creating a welcoming, vibrant, and sustainable community/school garden. The garden has numerous partners to help maintain interest, operations and expansion. Partnerships include the Office of Community Engaged Learning, the College of Public Health, and Public Health Student Alliance, Family and Community Services, City of Kent and Kent City Schools. These partners have committed to support the garden by providing interns and committees to meet the on-going needs of the garden. The gardeners are neighbors, teachers, students and members of the Kent State community. In addition to the new community, garden projects are underway to create a small school garden, a garden club and a Reduce Food Waste program. The smaller school garden will make it easier and safer for teachers and students to participate in frequent gardening. |
Comparative Assessment of Sustainability Lab Fuel Cells04/09/2019Fuel cells possess the characteristic of being able to convert energy in fuels directly into electricity. Different types of fuel cells are capable of working using different types of fuel and use different methods to convert the energy into electricity. The purpose of this research is to determine and record key differences between several types of fuel cells. This data can be recorded through repeatedly running each fuel cell type and taking note of those differences to determine possible advantages or disadvantages of using each type in different scenarios. The data produced can then be used to determine the best applications for each type. |
Comparing Ancient Greek and Italian Renaissance Sculpture04/09/2019In participating in a trip to Athens for research, this project explores my interest in fine art by comparing sculpture esthetics and techniques of ancient Greece to those of ancient Rome and Renaissance Italy. In narrowing this topic down, I am taking a close look at two specific sculptures in art history: Michelangelo’s David and Pythokritos’s Winged Victory of Samothrace. There are many similarities between these two art pieces because Italian artists took much of their inspiration from the Greeks; however, there are also many characteristics of the sculptures that set them apart. Artists of the Renaissance are known for building their art unproportionally and posed in the contrapposto stance. Another common trait of Renaissance work is femininity and exaggeration, whereas the Greeks embraced masculinity, movement, and proportions. In the instance of these two statues, the big giveaway is that the Greeks tended to only create with the Gods in mind; Roman Renaissance artists were moved by everyday people and religious figures. As for my on-site research, I have decided to continue to look at sculpture, but, instead, how it evolved in ancient Greece into the art that inspired the Renaissance artists. When the Roman Empire conquered Greece, they took back some aspects of their culture with them. Artists like Michelangelo studied Greek art, many of the characteristics seen in his work, and that of many other creators, were interpreted from the ancient Greeks. |
Composting at Kent04/09/2019Kent State University does not currently have a composting system in place, which in turn is causing large amounts of waste to go unused and is hindering the environment around us. We hope to reduce the overall food waste on campus through our program, and we also want to help educate the community on eco-conscious eating. Composting helps the environment through lowering the amount of greenhouse gases produced (the main fueled of climate change). Food in landfills does not break down properly and thus releases harmful greenhouse gases. Composting also improves overall soul quality and addresses a major environmental concern. We will use information from different university offices, such as the Sustainability Office, Dining Services, the Environmental Sciences department, and the Waste Removal team, as well as other universities and businesses with successful composting programs. We will also talk to the City of Kent, the local Farmers Market, and other places where we could possibly use the compost and implement the program. Our program will help implement a solid, sustainable composting system and inform students on the positives of eco-conscious eating. This will also help give Kent State University a positive, healthy image to the community. |
Consumer Knowledge of Sustainability throughout the Apparel Life Cycle04/09/2019MERCH We studied the environmental impact that apparel has throughout the life cycle as well as what step, specifically during the apparel life cycle, is the biggest contributor to the damages it creates on the environment. We used a combination of exploring literature, coding consumer comments amongst categories and creating a survey to earn more in- depth understanding of the opinions of consumers regarding the sustainability in the apparel life cycle. Through our research, we learned that consumers have a very slim understanding of what exactly is hurting the environment when it comes to the apparel life cycle. Consumers like to point their fingers and blame others for the waste while they don't realize the effects that they are making themselves. |
Consumer Perception of Cotton Sustainability04/09/2019MERCH Throughout our extensive research, we studied consumer perceptions of sustainable cotton apparel to better understand their level of awareness and their purchasing decisions. We found our information from literature research as well as conducting our own survey to gauge consumer perceptions. Our findings show that they have an awareness, but not extensive knowledge on the subject and they favor certain aspects of sustainable apparel over others. |
Consumer Preference in the Fashion Industry: Inter-Fiber Competition04/09/2019MERCH For this project, we studied consumer prefernces between cotton and synthetic fibers. We studied this topic by using consumer comments from social media platforms, blogs, etc. We also used exploratory research to better understand what consumers want. We found that consumers prefer cotton over synthetic fibers but majority of consumers don’t have a preference. |
Consumer Preferences on Cotton04/09/2019MERCH: This research looks into why cotton has lost its favorable spot as the number one fabric. To do this, we studied background literature on the subject, analyzed content collected from web comments, and conducted our own research. We found that consumers still view cotton favorably, but they simply no longer care about the fabric make-up of their garments. Although consumers associate cotton with positive attributes, they are not paying attention to the fibers that go into the clothes they wear at the time of making the buying decision. Consumers also found synthetic fibers to be very innovative, especially in categories like athletic wear. Through our survey, we discovered that consumers did not see the potential for cotton to be an innovative fiber. Overall, our research found that the main reasons for cotton’s market share loss is due to consumer's indifference towards what fibers go into their garments, as well as the rise of innovative synthetics. |
Containment and Continuous Revolution: The United States, Taiwan, and the Seeds of the Sino-Soviet Split04/09/2019By the mid-1960s, the alliance between the Soviet Union and the People’s Republic of China was irrevocably broken, as several years of competition between Mao Zedong and Nikita Khrushchev for ideological and political supremacy within the communist movement had taken their toll. Much scholarship has been dedicated to the topic of the Sino-Soviet split, but this paper attempts to contribute to that scholarship by asking: what efforts did the United States undertake to create such a split, and was American foreign policy a driving factor of the breakdown of the Sino-Soviet alliance? The paper argues that the Americans did in fact have a hand in exacerbating the emerging ideological conflict between the USSR and the PRC by looking at US policy towards Taiwan in the late 1950s. It is argued that the two Taiwan Straits Crises of 1954-55 and 1958 contributed a good deal to the coming Sino-Soviet split and that the United States, by committing itself to the defense of the island, thus became a central point of and inflammatory influence on the ideological debate emerging between the communist allies. |
Cooking Classes Around Students04/09/2019After moving on from college and into the real world many people find themselves eating out or ordering in pizza. To better prepare students for the real world, simple, easy and culturally diverse cooking demonstrations could be very beneficial to the Kent State student population. One of Kent State University’s biggest focuses is pushing for a wider more culturally diverse campus. Usually, a common stereotype that follows college students is that their choice of food revolves around Mac & Cheese and Top Ramen. Cooking skills are minimal when one is left with only a microwave and a mini fridge. When students leave and have a full kitchen, they are unsure of what to do with it and they have a limited budget which leads to a boring diet. Creating effective short surveys in order to get a grasp on what Kent’s student holds to be valuable is one of the methods that will be used, a stats professor will help ensure the survey is unbiased and effective, and different demographics and preferences will be surveyed. Dining staff as well as employees in diversity and inclusion will be interviewed. After meeting with the campus dieticians, we found a healthy list of meals that are easily accessible and easily made. The cooking demos themselves will be accessible with meal swipes and incentivized by attaching Flashperks to each event. The demos will become a social event for students as well as a way to equip them for living on their own. |
Cotton and the Athleisure Market04/09/2019MERCH- The focus of our research is to examine the athletic wear and athleisure market and evaluate the effectiveness of recent technological advancements within the cotton industry to rise as a top competitor in this market. Through our exploratory research, we would like to grasp a better understanding of what kinds of needs and expectations consumers may have for the products within this market so that we may understand how the cotton industry is addressing these needs. We found out through our research that not many people know about the efforts being made to enhance cotton to be a performance-ready fabric and that fit and comfort are two of the most important factors consumers consider when purchasing athletic wear. |
Cotton and the Athleisure Market: How are Brands Incorporating Cotton into their Athleisure lines?04/09/2019A trend that is being seen nationally is the shift of athletic clothing being used for casual everyday clothing. Athletic clothing now has a whole new purpose and being active and athletic doesn’t have to be a reason to purchase this trend. The athleisure wear trend is unbiased and anyone, athletic or not, can take part in this comfortable, sporty, trend. Brands are seeing that through the demand of athleisure wear, the demand for cotton is not as high because of the use of synthetic fibers for athleisure wear. This study will be digging deeper into the bigger question of are companies doing more to include cotton in their athleisure wear, and if so, what are they doing. The study will be researching brands and their athleisure wear collection to see what brands are incorporating cotton into their lines to keep the cotton industry competitive. This study will also benefit from researching what consumers are saying in ratings and critiques of these athleisure apparel items and seeing if these new cotton technological advancements are comparable to the technology of synthetic fibers. We expect this research to show that leading athletic apparel brands are incorporating cotton into their athleisure lines. The intensity of the athleisure competition among brands will increase with the inclusion of cotton in their athletic lines. Overall, this study expects to increase the demand of cotton within the industry and will help individual brands to thrive in the athleisure market. |
Cotton In the Rain04/09/2019The purpose of this project was to create cohesive looks as a student design group that function for specific tasks and are made of cotton or cotton based materials. The chosen circumstances to work towards were three looks for the active life of a hiker. After interviewing individuals from the demographic we chose who have hiked the Appalachian Trail, there were some key needs that we found were not being met by the outdoor clothing that they used. The absence of breathable garments was clearly evident specifically in rain gear, as their clothing became restricting shortly into the trek. We were able to pinpoint the most pertinent needs to suit the busy and energetic lifestyle of a hiker after conducting interviews with people who take part in these activities. Our focus was to create visually appealing attire that caters to the functional necessities of an individual who spends much of their time outdoors to make their hiking adventures even more enjoyable. Our color palette was based off of the element of water, as this is one of the most important resources when it comes to time spent in the wilderness. We looked into waterproof and water resistant fabrics made of cotton. |
Cotton the Rain04/09/2019The purpose of this project was to develop a new look for raingear utilizing Storm Denim and Storm Cotton. Raingear and the outdoor apparel industry are dominated by synthetics because they can wick away moisture from the body and prevent the absorption of external water (Prudeng, 2017). Although effective, synthetic material tend to make garments stiff and unbreathable and causes raingear to utilize function over form. Traditional outdoor gear companies spend years developing technically superior products, but these strides in innovation don’t appeal to all markets. There is a large gap in the markets for raingear that appeals to the on to go customer that wants to be stylish as well as shielded from the rain, rather than look like they are ready to climb a mountain. Advances in technology can assist in finding a solution to raingear’s unfashionable tendencies. Innovations in textile technologies have expanded the versatility of cotton. Over the past decade, advances in the textile chemistries such as Storm Denim and Storm Cotton has allowed cotton to make advances in the outdoor apparel category (Prudeng, 2017). The technological advances of cotton have allowed for new styles of raingear to be possible. Storm Denim and Storm Cotton have created the ability to have garment that are both functional and fashionable. The main goal of the collection was to create a new normal for the on the go, stylish customer caught in the rain. |
Cotton, Consumer Disposal Habits04/09/2019Merch, Today, wastefulness and excess consumptions are integrated in our way of life. Our reliance on disregard for the rest of a garment’s life have created great damage to developing countries and the environment. While many companies in the fashion industry are striving to change these habits, it is the average consumer’s choices that will alter this pattern of destruction. fast fashion and Our research focused on learning what these consumers believe currently, and how through education, we can redirect this path of improvidence. Through our collection and research of consumer reviews and survey results we learned that overall, consumers reacted well to the idea of reusing clothes, while popularity of reselling or donating clothes was half and half. Consumers also felt that they are uneducated about the afterlife of their clothes. An average of only 11.7% felt they knew a great deal about the afterlife of their fabric goods. |
Creating an Oligarchy: An Intellectual History of the Electoral College04/09/2019An intellectual history of the Electoral College seeks to identify all major motivations of the Framers in creating the structure of the Electoral College so that some of the historical debate can be more inclusive and settled while providing a political lens as well. For contemporary politics, the academia and elected officials would benefit from a better understanding of the Electoral College in order to circumvent some of the challenges it has posed since. In order to understand the minds of the delegates at the Constitutional Convention, the methodology included collecting existing letters and correspondence, meeting minutes, and publications from the major delegates. The Federalist Papers, Antifederalist Papers, and several others directly state the published opinions of some delegates; whereas, others make reference to Patrick Henry, John Locke and the Treatise on Government, the Magna Carta, and Greek and Roman antiquity. This research found that the Founders were not necessarily ideologues but rather forced to compromise under the duress of time posed by the Articles of Convention, citizen unrest, and massive debt. Instead, the Founders were influenced to create the Electoral College by the culmination of debate through the entire convention to appease demographic, political, and cultural concerns. Thus, representation for the people and states, as well as the willingness to preserve slavery for greater political power. |
Cutting Edge04/09/2019During this project, our group collaborated with merchandising student's business plan and created a collection that is cotton rich. The collection utilizes technologies in ways that everyday people can wear all of the time. Going into this project we looked at our target customer and thought of the best way to integrate our customer into technology options and giving her something that she would be comfortable with which was laser cutting. A sustainable factor implemented was being able to create a wool coat that cotton rich. Though proved a more difficult task than realized at first it was possible. The designers focus was to not forget about a customer whom people are familiar with and a woman who can still take advantage of the new technologies that life has the offer but also stay true to who she is. |
De-Stress for Success04/09/2019Kent State is a university that steadily improves to fulfill the needs of their students, however, these needs are not always met. We, as students, have developed a substantial issue within the campus library, while it is said to be the heart of campus, it does not always beat perfectly. The problem we have found is that the study rooms should be improved upon as there is a lack of space for students to relax and unwind. As a group, we plan on solving this issue by working closely with campus administrators and staff; as well as bringing in statistics from opinions of current students. As current students at Kent State, we feel that if these changes are made, not only will you see a tremendous change study habits and flow of traffic coming into the library, but also possibly an increase of incoming students. We believe that by addressing these issues, students will continue to flourish and be studious in their endeavors. |
Decadence: The Shape of Fashion04/09/2019The silhouette of the garment is perhaps one of the most important parts of creating a piece. It’s the first thing to be seen, judged, and cause a response. Creating new silhouettes can be tedious; however, building on shapes seen in the past to create new approaches of proportioning the body can be a place to start. Inspired by the 16th and 19th centuries the collection is reminiscent of the time period. Taking the female body and exaggerated certain aspects has been in play for centuries. The hips, bust, bum, and shoulders are all points of focus when it comes to creating a strong silhouette. By taking age old techniques and extending them to create overstated points of focus, new proportions for the body can be created. Taking traditional ideas of boned bodices and hoop skirts one can create innovative looks that can be manipulated by the wearer. One of the main directions is being able to give the wearer the ability to “design” the garment in a sense. This can be achieved by creating looks that when interacted with the silhouette of the garments change to take on a new shape. Another aspect of the collection is bringing in the neoclassical and baroque architecture characteristics to adorn the body in physical sculptures. The right materials can be manipulated into pieces that resemble marble sculptures to be put on the garments. The point is to make each piece a masterpiece of decadence. |
Denim Remixed: Work-wear Capsule Collection04/09/2019The purpose of this collection was to provide sustainable and functional workwear for men and women. It was essential to include several features that would make laborers day-to-day tasks easier. This collection reinvents monotonous uniforms into a unique utilitarian wardrobe. The design process began with researching different brand proposals made by merchandising students. The brand, Denim Remixed created by merchandising students consisting of a target market, ethical strategy, and a purpose for the mission statement to follow. Denim Remixed centers around sustainable practices in denim clothing by cutting out harmful chemicals used during the regular production of denim, while offering a fuse of fashion and technology with laser cutting, digital printing and embroidery design using cotton based fabrics. Expanding on this proposal, our focus became functionality and workwear. This is important for us because there are so many blue collar jobs and so few clothing that helps to accommodate these consumers and aids them in their day to day life. Our inspiration concentrates on machinery based occupations, such as avionic mechanics, vehicle mechanics, heavy machinery workers, sawmill workers, and create gender neutral practical applications. The target market for this collection consists of blue collar men and women of all ages. The following step we took was getting to know our audience. We interviewed aircraft workers who fit into our target market and asked them questions about their desired features in their uniforms, and wear and tear. Key information after this consultation was the needs for longevity of design, storage features, ventilation, and performance. Based off these concerns, we decided to incorporate pockets, laser cutting for ventilation, and adjustable elements for this capsule collection. For this collection, we have a total three looks, each with storage, ventilation and performance features that are fulfilled for our client. With our business plan’s main focus on denim, we incorporated denim as our primary fabric choice. Look one is a denim jacket, alternative seam t-shirt and denim shorts. The denim jacket is made out of 100% cotton and features laser cutting on the back yoke and a removable storage bag. We choose yellow for this jacket as a safety feature for the worker when going outside so that they are easily visible from a distance. It also has snaps for the front closure to easily slide in and out of. The bag is detachable and is designed to go on either side of the jacket for the wearers preference. The t-shirt is 100% cotton and features an inseam pocket on the front left side for storage for everyday items. The shorts are 100% cotton and feature larger back pockets and a tab for a radio on both sides of the waistband. The second look’s top is a 9 ounce Cone Mills Denim in mint green and a single knit for the bottom portion featuring a digital star print. Denim was picked because of its longevity and durability for workwear. The single knit is useful for day-to day tasks on the job. The third look’s bottoms are a knit work short. The fabric choice is a knit denim so as to have more comfort,stretch, and have the durability qualities of denim. The look features hardware such as straps for the detachable pouch, jean buttons to connect the straps to the bag,and for button flaps to remove the bag from the top, buckles to be able to wear the pouch bag, a zipper to close the pouch bag, eyelets, drawcord and drawcord stoppers for the waistband. This hardware was chosen for functionality and accessibility to make day-to-day work tasks easier. Storage features that were chosen are a detachable pouch and deep pockets in the work shorts to hold necessary tools for a post. For easy access, we have implemented the detachable pouch around the waist and the shorts bottoms slit pockets on the sides. The slit pockets are also able to hold a walkie so that the wearer can be hands free. The functionality is to be able to carry all of your tools to make the work day more effective and efficient. Ventilation was also an important element in the look as well. The shirts front closures is a placket of easy to use magnetic snaps that can be undone to ventilate the wearer. The Tech Style lab was used for a digital print of the star pattern on to the single knit. The detachable pouch is adjustable so as to be taken on and off as well as positioning for the wearer’s preference. The third look consists of a 100% cotton denim overall and a durable lightweight cotton work shirt. The overalls use a 12.5 oz medium weight cotton denim for durability and longevity. Also utilizing a natural fiber makes a more breathable clothing. The lightweight shirting makes for a breathable shirting that easy to wear and wash. The overalls feature gunmetal hardware in the form of jean buttons, snaps, and rivets. All of this hardware will help to reinforce the clothing so that it will have a longer durability. There will also feature snaps on the hem of the pants to create a more form-fitting pant leg that could fit inside a boot. The workshirt features magnetic snaps closure near the neck so that the wearer can easily open the shirt while working to quickly ventilate. The sleeves will also have a placket with snap closures going up past the elbow for an easily rolled sleeve cuff. The shirt will also feature a large pocket on the front of the shirt for easy storage of personal items such as money, phone, etc. The overalls also feature two large pockets on the front bib. The pants of the overalls contain slanted pockets for large storage in the front. In the back, there are embroidered back jean pockets. On the right-hand side there will feature a strap and reinforced jean pockets to place a radio or tools within easy reach.The knees of the overalls will also have a slot for industrial knee pads. This look is functional without being unattractive. The purpose of these designs and collection were created for a unique, functional work-wear ulitarianian collection. These looks make day-to-day tasks easier for the wearer with storage, ventilation and adjustable settings. Technology with laser cutting, digital printing, and embroidery were used for a fashion forward, blue collar work-wear individual. |
Designing Digital: Outlining the past, present and future of digital 3D technology in the fashion industry and university.04/09/2019The speed of the leader is the speed of the gang (Ash, 2001). In our fast-forward culture we live to work by constantly striving for new technologies, innovations and efficiencies. Everyday, companies are releasing new gadgets and software to make our lives easier. Some companies are starting from scratch, while others are building off of key elements already established from other platforms. 3D design software has bounded together elements of 2D pattern making and 3D CAD technology to create photo-realistic renderings of garments. Through this groundbreaking creation, large corporate companies and manufactures are able to increase the speed and accuracy of the supply chain system. With this 3D design software, factories and designers can visually see the final product virtually before any fabric is cut. This helps the designers make immediate modifications if required and for factories to maintain a stricter quality control, reducing errors. As the fashion industry aggressively progresses into this new digital realm, universities are following suit so that they can product industry leaders to propel innovation even further. The fashion industry design tools and supply chain that we know today is flourishing into a new digital decade with the help of 3D Design software. |
Detection of BHMT in Oligodendrocytes04/09/2019Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the nervous system leading to degradation of the myelin sheath surrounding nerve cells. Methionine metabolism is a pathway that is negatively affected in MS. In MS, inflammation and increased reactive oxygen species lead to a buildup of homocysteine which can cause complications. Further, SAM is down-regulated in MS causing decreased methylation and subsequent gene expression. To counter this problem, BHMT is an enzyme that is activated by betaine and helps prevent the accumulation of homocysteine and is therefore able to proceed with the conversion into methionine. BHMT is present in oligodendrocytes but the reason is not yet known. The focus of this project is to look at BHMT expression and potential co-localization with other proteins through immunocytochemistry. This information will give us a better understanding of BHMT and its role in oligodendrocytes. |
Determining Factors of College Major Decision04/09/2019Future earnings, skill, interest, and employment opportunities are possible factors behind a college student’s decision of a major in which they will receive their degree. In a 2012 research study, Arcidiacono, Hotz, and Kang concluded that expected salary and students’ skills are strong factors in determining how students at Duke University choose their major. However, the students at Duke University are not representative of the overall college population, and students at other universities, such as Kent State University, may differ in their choices. Data is collected by surveying students about their major and prospective earnings. Students are asked to identify 1st, 2nd, and 3rd quartiles of earnings in their major category and 8 other categories along with identifying where they would place themselves on those spectrums. We also analyze their level of risk aversion through a dice lottery question and ask them to rank other factors that may lead them to choose their major such as interest, mentor influence, or ease of the major. We have begun creating a model that discerns which of these factors have the largest effect on major decision. Our preliminary analysis indicates that students’ decisions are more based on interests and skills as opposed to future earnings. |
Development of Instructional Material for a Cognitive Behavior Therapy App04/09/2019According to Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM), nearly 6 million patients are admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) each year in the United States. An ICU admission and stay of a critically ill adult patient is a stressful experience for families. They are at risk for developing Post Intensive Care Syndrome-Family (PICS-F), a syndrome composed of symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and decreased quality of life. Although, family centered care guidelines have been established, interventions aimed at preventing PICS-F are lacking for these busy and highly stressed families. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), delivered by a mobile phone app, has been reported to decrease these symptoms in some populations. Subsequently, our focus is investigating the feasibility of using a CBT with family members of critically ill patients. In preparation for enrollment of family members to the study, research was undertaken to guide the development of instructional materials for using a CBT intervention delivered via smartphone technology. Considerations in developing the instructional materials included, sample characteristics, ICU setting, and technological factors. Creating the material consisted of acquiring general knowledge of the app, selecting appropriate features, and synthesizing the content into instructions appropriate for the anticipated sample. Kent State University College of Nursing faculty and the smartphone technology company (PACIFICA) served as collaborators throughout the development. The final product, a brochure with a detailed informational sheet, will be provided to family members during recruitment to the study and was approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of Summa Health System. |
Different experiences of the Jewish population during the Holocaust and the Patriarchy impact04/09/2019By looking at the experiences of the Jewish population and the "Nazis" actions during the Holocaust, and their ideology behind these two races, hopefully we can bring up the fact that Holocaust was not just an event of extreme Antisemitism, but an event that also involved extreme Patriarchy. |
Different Peaces, Similar Lives: Power Relations, Peace Agreements, and Lived Experiences in Palestine and Northern Ireland04/09/2019The Oslo Accords (1993) are widely held to have been a failure, and their collapse in 2001 is uncontested by scholars and politicians alike. In negotiations, Israel had the clear upper hand, and Palestinians were expected to make equal if not greater concessions from a starting point that was stacked against them. Palestinians refused to concede more of their territory and rights to Israel, and many use these reasons to explain the failure of the negotiations without seeking to understand the wider circumstances. Alternatively, the deleterious effects of the Good Friday Agreement (1998) are often covered up by its advertised success. Though the agreement was signed by the conflicting parties, it failed to reconcile or reverse over 400 years of British settler colonialism in Ireland, while also exacerbating inequalities. The British occupation of Northern Ireland was fortified, and to this day the civil rights of the native Irish remain under assault. This paper compares the Oslo Accords and the Good Friday Agreement and is based upon an analysis of unequal power relationships during peace processes. It details the impact of such inequalities in negotiations on life after they end. Additionally, it provides a comparative lens through which to view the Oslo process and advances a fresh perspective on the 1990s era of peace processes. In doing so, it emphasizes the similar lived experiences of people who witnessed different formal outcomes. |
Differential Equations and Algebraic Operators in Quantum Mechanical Systems04/09/2019Quantum Mechanics is an incredibly difficult subject to understand, even to physicists. To obtain solutions in the field of Quantum Physics, and hence to be able to make predictions in the physical world, there are two different mathematical methods that are utilized. However, it is not obvious that these two methods are actually equivalent, since they are incredibly different both visually and mathematically. One way of tackling tough problems in Quantum Mechanics, is by utilizing the more intuitive branches of math which are Calculus and Differential Equations. Although it helps understand the problem more, it is significantly more time consuming than using the Linear Algebra approach, which involves matrices and operators. Again, it is not obvious that these methods are actually the same, so I set out to prove it once and for all. This past summer, I proved that these two methods are indeed equivalent by solving the Hydrogen atom wavefunction using both of these methods, proving by construction that these two methods are indeed equivalent. |
Dirty Business04/09/2019Architecture is particularly adept in producing waste. The skillful collection of waste at a domestic scale and its distribution within a vast network of undetectable conduits is relevant to contemporary circumstances, which prevent any meaningful reconciliation of the personal impulse to accumulate with the universal desire for equilibrium. Readymade goods play a significant disciplinary role in a culture that has completely abandoned resistance to commodification, instead favoring the spectacle and sensations produced by these objects. Dirty Business suggests a hypothesis that the integration of the readymade, which is the architectural antithesis of monumentality, is actually establishing a new monumentality in the age of the post-digital. This view is critical of Reyner Banham’s observation of readymades and mechanical systems’ integration into American architecture as avoiding monumentality altogether. In architecture, readymades are essential building components (material) and superfluous construction debris (materiel). They are invisible utilitarian tools, engineered with metric precision (anti-matter) that simultaneously produce unintended decoration, eliminating the need for craft (proto-image). Dirty Business retrofits a manufactured portable toilet with machine-extruded drainpipes. In this scenario, object becomes site and surface become object. These readymades are then reconfigured by the blatant image of their everyday operation. An alternative narrative unfolds with the introduction of new characters that have an inclination for the awkwardly upright: The Squatter, The Stiff, and the Hugger. Another reality emerges on the interior, one that magnifies and augments the complex of cavities and conduits that insure civil operation, confronting the nature of society’s contrived functional and cultural mechanisms. |
Dissemination Project: A Website Designed to Spread Information About Women's Reproductive Rights04/09/2019In America of 2019, women are told explicitly and implicitly that they should dress modestly, practice celibacy and avoid being alone in public places; moreover, it is a woman’s responsibility to expect and defend against harassment and assault. Until now, I thought that this was normal, and that many women experienced some form of sexual abuse. Certainly, that was the case for me. As a child I was sexually abused by my step-father. As a teen I was coerced into sexual acts by my older boyfriend. As a young wife I was domestically abused by my husband. As a woman in a bar, at a concert, or a party I have been groped, whistled at, and objectified. The turning point came when I realized that every woman I knew had experienced some form of inappropriate sexual contact. The #MeToo movement also made me realize how pervasive sexual victimization is and the degree to which social norms as well as legislation deprive women of agency. My research project is a website to serve as a resource for and about women’s rights, specifically in relation to women’s legal rights and reproductive health care. There is a far-reaching need for better dissemination of information to ensure continued progress on women’s social and sexual welfare. Through the development of my website I work to spread knowledge, awareness, and resources for women, men and others who wish to continue the fight for women’s right to control their own body through preventative health care and education. |
Distribution of neurological and neurodegenerative symptoms in flaviviral infections04/09/2019Viruses in the Flaviviridae family, such as West Nile Virus (WNV) and Dengue, spread by arthropods (mosquitoes and ticks), represent a major threat to global health. Since 2000 there was a major uptick in the number of flaviviral infections worldwide, due to global climate change, and changes in patterns of urbanization and migration. First found in 1999, WNV spread across the US by 2004, resulting in 22,000+ cases of neuroinvasive disease and 2,000+ deaths (CDC 2017). Zika virus (ZIKV) is another emergent pathogen causing a significant concern because of neurodevelopmental defects. As vectors expand, so do the range of local viral transmissions and frequency of infections. Thus, it is important to understand the nature of symptoms associated with flaviviral infections, so that better surveillance programs can be established. Here we conducted literature review to identify which flaviviruses have documented neurological symptoms, including psychiatric, neurodegenerative, and developmental disorders. Knowledge of such associations with specific viruses can be used in multiple ways, including identification of those likely at risk of developing neurological disorders and/or expanding the list of symptoms to look for. Furthermore, better understanding of molecular underpinnings of neurological symptoms (e.g., if driven by a flavivirus activating the host’s TLR3 pathway) may aid in the development of therapies and interventions. Overall, knowing the breadth of symptoms associated with flaviviral infections can open up opportunities for preventative treatment before neurological symptoms are detected. |
Do Stressful Life Events Impact Analytical Thinking and Acceptance of Drug Use?04/09/2019Most people experience stressful events in their lives, such as accidents, assault or life-threatening illness. This study assesses relations between stressful life events, analytical thinking (i.e., in-depth processing of information), and beliefs about whether substance use is acceptable, including both legal (e.g., alcohol) and illegal (e.g., opiates) substances. Participants were 121 undergraduates (mean age = 22.75; 78% female, 93% Caucasian) who completed online surveys. Preliminary analyses indicated that older participants experienced more stressful life events (r = .34, p = .000); therefore, all analyses controlled for age. Partial correlations indicated that a greater number of stressful events was related to less analytical thinking (r = -.20, p = .029) and more acceptance of substance use (r = .24, p = .009). By contrast, more analytical thinking was related to less acceptance of substance use (r = -.27, p = .003). Taken together, these findings support the notion that stressful life events may have a negative impact on analytical thinking and may lead to increased acceptance of substance use. Increasing individuals’ ability to think analytically may be one way to reduce acceptance of substance use, which in turn, may help reduce the opioid epidemic currently plaguing our society. |
Does High Cadence Cycling Improve Symptoms Of Depression In Individuals With Parksinson's Disease?04/09/2019Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that often leads to increased incidence of depression. Although high cadence cycling improves motor function in PD, depression could decrease motivation to participate in exercise. PURPOSE: To examine if three bouts of high-cadence cycling improves symptoms of depression in individuals with PD. METHODS: Individuals with PD (N=32) were divided into either a high-cadence cycling or a no-exercise (control) group. The cycling group completed three sessions of high cadence cycling, on a custom motorized stationary cycle, consisting of a 5-minute warm-up at 50 revolutions per minute (rpm), 30 minutes of high cadence cycling between 75-85 rpm, and a 5-minute cool down. Depression was assessed using Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) at baseline and 1 week later. BDI-II is a 21-question self-assessment that examines feelings of hopelessness, irritability and fatigue. RESULTS: At baseline, 31% of the individuals showed symptoms of depression. Overall, there were no significant changes in BDI scores after the intervention. However, not all of the subjects recruited had depression according to the BDI. Individuals who showed symptoms of depression (BDI score > 13) improved their depression score by 4.67 points after high-cadence cycling and the control group only improved by 2.75 points. CONCLUSIONS: Although three high-cadence cycling sessions did not result in significant improvements in BDI-II, it is possible that additional sessions of high-cadence cycling will promote further improvements in depression amongst individuals with PD. Future studies should examine the effects of additional cycling sessions on depression in this high-risk population. |
Does stream restoration BUG or build invertebrate diversity?04/09/2019As the aesthetic and economic values of streams become increasingly recognized, restoration efforts of riparian zones and stream channels are consequently becoming more common. Typical restoration efforts include activities such as adding rocks to enhance substrate heterogeneity and planting vegetation to promote stream-bank stability, as well as create more niches for organisms to utilize. Stream restoration aims to improve overall diversity of aquatic and streamside invertebrate communities. However, typical measures of restoration success often focus solely on aquatic invertebrate communities while riparian communities are also likely influenced by the changes to their environment. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine how stream restoration affects diversity and structure of invertebrate communities. We hypothesized that the riparian zones of restored streams would have higher invertebrate diversity and richness than unrestored and natural stream riparian zones due to the present goal of streams to promote diversity of plants, insects, and animals in the area. However, we further hypothesized that restored riparian zones would have lower invertebrate abundance as they have had a less time to establish a community. Streams in this study were examined in the Geauga and Cleveland Metroparks areas. We sampled invertebrate communities using pitfall traps placed along the side of the stream banks and over 140 samples were collected altogether. Results thus far have shown no major differences in abundances of invertebrates between each stream type, but there are still many samples to be sorted and we are hoping to find more interesting results in the near future. |
East Meets West04/09/2019East Meets West Presenters: SadieAnn Strouse, Nicole Crowl, Bridget Langguth, Kelsey Lanese, Taylor Parker, Artisha Walker, Kazimir Klein, and Sydney Weiss In the Fall of 2018/2019, East Meets West (EMW) sponsored a program (The Thailand Dance Experience) that took 10 Kent State Dance students to Bangkok, Thailand for a 2-week program with students from Suan Sunandha Rajabhat Univeristy (SSRU). While this was the third East Meets West program in Thailand, it included some first-time events including a collaborative experience in a face/body painting videography project. Further, members of the KSU Thai Music Ensemble travelled to Thailand in order to join with Music professors from SSRU to accompany a new work of choreography made for dancers from both SSRU and KSU by choreographer Suwatana Rockland. Having participated in a pre-travel course titled “Introduction to Thai Culture,” this year’s KSU students felt more confident in making new friendships, and were each prepared to contribute as cultural ambassadors while completing their own creative research. These individual contributions included: teaching technique and composition classes; organizing group activities; handling the responsibilities of a travelling nurse, a costume-wardrobe director, a social media correspondent and documenting events for future reference and sharing with the greater KSU community. One EMW dancer, who is both a Dance Minor and an Early Education Major, was able to visit a Thai pre-school/elementary school and learned about a unique curriculum that incorporates methods and influences from around the world. In order to gain the needed support, we began by presenting to KSU campus organizations, such as the Undergraduate Student Government, the School of Theatre and Dance, the School of Music, Undergraduate Student Research and the University Research Council. Faculty Advisor and Artistic Director, Rockland, also applied for and was awarded a grant by the Ohio Arts Council that enabled East Meets West to bring in a guest choreographer for the first time in our history as a student organization. Because of this outside recognition and sponsorship, the Kent State Foundation chose our organization and our planned trip to Thailand as a featured fund for the annual Giving Tuesday Campaign. If we include the sponsorships and in-kind gifts shared by our collaborators in Thailand, East Meets West generated more than $25,000 that went toward creating unique opportunities for our students that broaden their skills, and their view of the arts and the world at large. For the Fall 2019 semester, we have invited SSRU students and faculty back to Kent State University, as we did in the Fall of 2017. The students and professors from SSRU will be able to both take and instruct classes, and will perform in two Kent State productions. It will be the crowning program produced under the Five-Year Memorandum of Agreement signed by Kent State and Suan Sunandha Rajabhat in 2015. During this culminating visit, we plan to work with the administrations of both universities in order to either renew our Memorandum of Agreement or establish a long-term Memorandum of Understanding. |
Eating Disorder Abstract04/09/2019This poster presentation will illustrate the effects of eating disorders as a mental health issue for young adults. The pressures of selfie profection, photoshopped models and six-pack abs are continuing to impact the self-esteem of our youth. These false images create unrealistic body standards that wreak havoc on the emotional and physical health of our children. |
Effect of Ketogenic Diet on Liver04/09/2019Low carbohydrate ketogenic diets are mainly used for treatment of pediatric epilepsy, but more recently for obesity, and even neurological disease. In neurological diseases such as glaucoma, the ketogenic diet has been shown to mitigate inflammation and axon degeneration, while maintaining axon signaling function. However, long term maintenance of the ketogenic diet may have adverse side effects on the liver. In this study, we investigated whether the ketogenic diet used to treat for glaucoma in mice can have peripheral effects that may be detrimental. Mice genetically predisposed to secondary glaucoma were placed on a ketogenic diet to promote mitochondrial function while limiting glycolysis. The diet was 89 percent fat, 10 percent protein, and 1 percent carbohydrate. The diet was effective in ameliorating glaucoma development and maintaining retinal function. After eight weeks of the diet, the liver tissue was collected then stained with Oil Red-O or Hematoxylin and Eosin to highlight any accumulated fat (Oil Red-O) or the histopathological condition of the hepatocytes (H&E). High accumulated fat or disrupted hepatocytes would indicate that the ketogenic diet negatively impacts liver health in these animals. Preliminary analysis indicates the hepatocytes were relatively normal and fat accumulation was minimal to none. More exhaustive analysis is ongoing, though it appears that 8 weeks of the diet was well-managed by the liver in these mice. |
Emotional Expression: Socially Anxious Individuals and Their Partners04/09/2019Individuals who are socially anxious have obstacles to overcome and those obstacles may affect how they communicate in their romantic relationship. The partners of these socially anxious individuals may also be cautious in what and how they communicate. This research examined socially anxious people and their partners to understand their willingness to communicate both positive and negative concerns to one another, as well as their tendency to use inauthentic displays of emotions to influence one another. We predict that socially anxious people hold back negative and positive concerns, and their partner will hold back negative concerns and will be more likely to express positive ones. We also predict that anxious individuals and their partner will show inauthentic displays of emotion more frequently. This study uses data from couples who were cohabiting with their romantic partner (166 couples) and live in the United States. The participants were either recruited from online ads or from Kent State University’s staff and employee newsletter. The requirements to participate were that both partners were willing to participate, be at least 18 years of age, and spoke English fluently. The mean was 32.2 years of age and 58% of couples did not have children. The average length of the relationships was 7.75 years and the average time cohabiting was 5.5 years. Analyses are currently being conducted on the data. The results from the analysis will be presented, and the implications will be discussed. |
Empowered Print Design04/09/2019The constant challenges that lower income populations face can often compromise their dignity and self-determination. The purpose of this research study is to understand the impact of creative design based therapies on lower income populations of women situated within homeless shelter facilities. The goal is to empower these women through the development of print designs that are unique and personal to them. Interviews and visual work done in creative journals was used to create multiple prints that represent participant’s individual personalities and stories. The participants provide feedback on the print designs and select one to be placed on an item of their choosing. Upon receiving the print design, the participant will complete follow-up questionnaires in the months after receiving the design. As fashion designers, we often design without fully understanding the effects of what we create. This study will help us to better understand the effects of personalized prints and new collaborative design approaches. |
Encapsulating Play in Tactile Contemporary Jewelry04/09/2019The research I conducted through the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience involved studying psychological principles of sensory learning and child development and building a body of work consisting of three pieces of contemporary jewelry that reflected my scholarly research. My work began with studying the work of child psychologists and psychoanalysts, such as Joan Erikson. Psychological studies informed the concept of my research and provided the foundation for the forms and materials that I chose to use. Moving onto material research, I worked with latex balloons and eventually transitioned to using textile in conjunction with metal. By using these materials in conjunction with abstracted imagery derived from children’s toys, I was able to create a body of work that promotes sensory engagement between each piece and the wearer. |
Epidemiology of Staphylococci collected from Boston-area wild rodents04/09/2019As Staphylococcus aureus strains evolve and gain resistance to antibiotics, the risk of bidirectional transmission of resistant strains between humans and animals increases. The objective of this study was to identify and type S. aureus among wild rodents in Boston, Massachusetts, to examine their genetic relationship to common human and animal isolates. A total of 168 bacterial isolates collected from 45 Brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) in Boston proper were analyzed. Polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the mecAand PVL genes. All S. aureus isolates were spatyped. A subset of isolates was characterized via multi-locus sequence typing (MLST). All S. aureus isolates were tested for antibiotic susceptibility. Overall prevalence of S. aureus was 11.9% (20/168). Of all S. aureus, 5.0% (1/20) were MRSA (based on detection of the mecA gene which encodes methicillin-resistance) and 95.0% (19/20) were methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA). All isolates tested resistant to benzylpenicillin. Two isolates were resistant to erythromycin and one isolate was resistant to four antibiotics, including oxacillin. Of the 20 isolates, 75.0% (15/20) were spa type t933. MLST results to date show that these are sequence type (ST) 1094. Additional molecular testing is ongoing. Our results indicate that wild rats from Boston, MA are carriers of S. aureus. Additional study is needed to examine the distribution of t933/ST1094, an uncommon strain previously found in ewes in Tunisia. Further research is warranted to identify and characterize lineages of S. aureus strains in order to minimize the risk of Staphylococcal infection from city rodents. |
Escaping the Patriarchy: The Depictions of Women and Goddesses in Ancient Greek Art04/09/2019My research will be comparing and contrasting the depiction of women and Greek goddesses in Ancient Greek art. Much of the art will show the power and freedom the goddesses had that the common woman did not, but also show Greek mythology mirrored and perpetuated the life of a common woman during the Greek patriarchy. The Greek patriarchy oppressed and secluded women throughout the thousands of years of what is considered “Ancient Greece.” Women were only to marry, bear children, and provide around the house. They were not to attend school or social events or participate in political or military events. Women had very little freedom and double standards when it came to marriage, sexuality, employment, and social aspects of their lives. Men were all-powerful and dominating, while women were shameful and deceitful. Ancient Greek mythology blames women for the downfall of men. Considering the social restraint women faced, there were, ironically, a plethora of powerful female goddesses depicted in Greek mythology. I will explore depictions of these real and mythological women by examining both written materials (before the trip) and on-site research in Athens, Greece (faculty-led Global Education class/trip Spring 2019’ trip will be during the spring break). |
Examining the Influence of Continental Philosophy on Postmodern Literature: A Nietzschean Reading of Don DeLillo’s White Noise04/09/2019What can Continental philosophy help us understand about how we read and explicate meaning in literature? Given that many works of modern and postmodern literature mirror the same central tenets as the ideas of Continental philosophers, such as a staunch rejection of absolutes, a rejection of truth, and a rejection of meaning outside of human consciousness, looking at the viewpoints and ideas of various Continental philosophers—in tandem with literary works—an enrich our understanding of philosophical texts and literary texts alike. This project addresses a portion of the intersection of English and Philosophy as fields of study. Through a critical philosophical analysis of Don DeLillo’s White Noise, conducted in dialogue with the ideas of the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, this project—as a case study—seeks to enforce the idea that an education in Continental philosophy allows students to develop an enriched understanding of modern and postmodern literature, as well as philosophical literature, that is uniquely informed by interdisciplinary exchange. By reading DeLillo in dialogue with Nietzsche, the reader may gain an understanding of the philosophical problems presented by DeLillo, an elucidation of Nietzsche’s own ideas, and a grasp of potential problems with modernity and the way we perceive truth in the our world. Examining the ways in which Continental philosophy and English literature influence each another will create a common ground for interdisciplinary discussion, which may enhance our understanding of the complex ideas presented—in both works of postmodern literature and of Continental philosophy—in unique ways. |
Examining the Relation between Internalizing Symptoms and Weight Change among Freshman Transitioning to College: Does Physical Inactivity Exacerbate Risk for Weight Gain?04/09/2019The transition to college is associated with higher levels of internalizing symptoms (i.e. depression, stress, anxiety) and weight gain. Physical activity may reduce the risk of weight gain among college freshman. Our study aims to examine the individual relations between internalizing symptoms and weight gain during students’ first semester in college and if physical inactivity exacerbates these relations. College freshman (N=65, 72% female; 72% White) were part of a larger longitudinal study examining the effect of stress on weight gain during the first year of college. Internalizing symptoms were assessed using DASS-21 depression, anxiety, and stress subscales (α=.84,.79,.84). Physical activity frequency was assessed using two self-reported items from the Arlington Physical Activity Survey. The overall model was trending toward significance, F(3, 61)=2.20, p=.097. However, depressive symptoms predicted more weight gain in students with low levels of physical activity. Physical activity significantly moderated this relation, F(1, 61)=5.63, p< .05. Among college freshman, higher levels of depressive symptoms and stress may increase risk for weight gain at the end of the first semester. In addition, physical inactivity may exacerbate the risk for weight gain among freshman experiencing higher levels of depressive symptoms. Future research should consider the possible benefits of physical activity for freshman experiencing depressive symptoms entering college. |
Excessive Use of Natural Resources & Water in the Fashion Industry04/09/2019"Merch" Through content analysis research and surveys, we studied the misuse of water and natural resources in today’s fashion industry. Through the survey we found that there are many consumers who are aware of this excessive use that the industry has taken part of. With negative perceptions, there were also neutral feelings about fashion trends, cost efficiency, along with being eco-friendly. With that being said, consumers are aware that companies should start to take initiative and begin to change their manufacturing processes. From the survey responses, more than half of the people who participated were unaware of the effects that the industry has on the environment. If fashion forward companies could commit to sustainable efforts, the environment we live in would be able to last longer than the foreseen years to come. |
Exercise Post-Oxygen Consumption in Response to Cycling at Various Intensities.04/09/2019Exercise Post-Oxygen Consumption in Response to Cycling at Various Intensities. Lauren D. Watson, Cody S. Dulaney, Tricia L. Hart, Eliott Arroyo, Adam R. Jajtner Exercise Physiology Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH Purpose: The purpose of this investigation is to assess exercise post oxygen consumption (EPOC) in response to high-intensity interval training versus moderate continuous training cycling. Methods: Two recreationally active men (21.3 ± 3.51 yrs; 182.83 ± 6.25 cm; 79.36 ± 8.69 kg; 3.57 ± 0.10 L∙min-1) completed three trials: a graded exercise test, and two cycling trials in a randomized order: a high-intensity interval (HII) and moderate continuous (MC) bout. Baseline VO2 was assessed for 30 minutes prior to each cycling trial. During HII, participants completed 15 90-second bouts of exercise at 85% VO2max with 90-second active recovery periods at 25% VO2max. During MC participants cycled for 45-minutes at 65% VO2max. For both conditions, participants completed a 5-minute warm-up and 3-minute cool down at 25% VO2max. Recovery VO2 was assessed within 3 minutes of completing the cool down for 60 minutes. Respiratory gasses were analyzed every 5 minutes during recovery. Results: Preliminary data shows an average oxygen consumption of 3.87 ± 0.83 mL/kg/min for HII and 3.91 ± 0.52 mL/kg/min for MCT. Also, the average oxygen consumption at the beginning of rest was 5.32 ± 0.48 ml/kg/min and declined to 3.93 ± 0.31 mL/kg/min at the end of recovery. Conclusion: Average and decline in VO2 response was similar during 60 minutes of quiet rest in the HII compared to the MC despite differences in exercise intensity during each protocol. |
Exploring the Linkage Between Root Chemistry and Belowground Microbial Communities04/09/2019The goal of this project was to understand which plant traits affect the potential for a tree's root carbon (C) to be stored in the soil to better improve accounting of C in forests and changing climates. Previous studies have demonstrated that roots of different tree species decompose at different rates depending on their chemistry and morphology. However, such information does not address how much root C is incorporated into soil microbial biomass, respired, or leached away to dissolved organic C pools. We explored the fate of those decomposed compounds by observing microbial biomass through two techniques, direct microscopy and fumigation, in addition to microbial respiration. The roots of four tree species were analyzed and their chemical composition was quantified. Preliminary results suggest that root morphology influences the fate of decomposed C. A significant trend was observed where thicker roots - roots that are more chemically labile and easier to break down – result in greater microbial respiration. Surprisingly, however, both thick and thin roots yield the same amount of microbial biomass. These results indicate that microbial communities decomposing different root types may have different respiration rates per cell. Further studies of root composition and morphology and effects on microbial physiology will aide in understanding of future ecosystem C dynamics. |
Facial Approximation of a Known Modern Person and an Unidentified Indigenous Person Using Photographs and Casts with Tissue Depth Markers04/09/2019Facial approximation is a method most commonly employed by forensic artists to produce an individual’s image from a description, a photograph, an x-ray or physical remains. This rendering is then used by law enforcement to aid identification of perpetrators, victims & unknown individuals in criminal cases. Since the objective of this technique is to put a face to an otherwise unidentified person, it also has the potential to be applied to archaeological skeletal specimens. Archaeology is a study, a preservation & ultimately a rediscovery of our own collective history. Applying this method to archaeological remains is useful in visualizing other hominid species in the context of human evolution. Additionally, integrating reconstruction more often to archaeological work might engender greater connection between the work being done in this field and the general public. A visual representation of an individual is likely to remind people that they are connected with these findings on a more intimate level. Thereby, promoting collaboration between citizens and archaeologists, engaging people in the field and increasing education and value for this collective history. This project will have enabled me to learn the fundamentals of facial myology & osteology and the methods utilized in facial approximation to produce two reconstructions upon completion: one 2-dimensional rendition of a known modern persons from a photo and a 3-dimensional approximation of an unidentified indigenous person using a cast skull. |
Fashion & Natural Resources: Water Usage04/09/2019MERCH Shifting consumers’ perception of cotton textiles from wary to supportive is critical to the livelihood of the cotton industry. Water conservation presents the opportunity for these environmentally conscious changes to transpire. The fashion industry can be redeemed both environmentally and socially. |
FemiMENity04/09/2019DESIGN. Construction is an overlooked aspect when designing. Construction can make or break a design. Sustainability has created a big crater in fashion design that’s just getting bigger. New breakthroughs in material generates a problem in the construction department of design. Expanding our minds to new fabrics, such as Tencel®, can lead to new doors opening to make an impact on the environment and fashion industry. Sustainable aspects pertaining to fashion contain certain techniques, strategies, and alternative processes that are useful in determining a better future for the environment and the fashion industry. With alternative construction techniques, home furnishing, utility fabrics, and even decommissioned fire gear can be repurposed to create distinctive, durable garments. Multiple weight garments are garments that include woven and knit fabrications which isn’t a typical combination in the fashion industry due to the construction difficulty. In order to advance the fashion industry into a sustainable future, one must investigate construction techniques between these materials. This study is to be explored in order to determine the appropriate construction techniques related to unusual fashion materials and the combination of different weighted materials. Decommissioned fire gear is an unutilized material that is being discarded after it has “served its purpose”, but what if that material was given a new purpose. Construction techniques include various seam finishes for heavy weight fabrics and knit fabrications. Construction techniques can be adapted for use in multiple weight garments. Construction techniques for this collection will be accomplished through sustainable design and integrated use of materials. |
Ferret Odor, But Not Mild Stress, Rapidly Induces Sustained Muscle Thermogenesis04/09/2019Nearly 40% of Americans are obese. Weight gain results from a consistent imbalance between calories consumed and calories burned. Energy expended during activity is the second largest contributor to our total daily energy expenditure (EE). Uncovering ways to increase EE could yield treatments for obesity. One profound, untapped potential source for increasing EE is through muscle thermogenesis. Our lab has repeatedly shown exposing rats to predator odor (PO) induces a rapid and robust increase in muscle thermogenesis. However, it is unknown if the PO-induced thermogenic response is a general stress response, or if it is specific to predator odor. Here, we address this concern. We surgically implanted temperature transponders into the gastrocnemius muscles of 7 female rats. Using a transponder reader, we measured the skeletal muscle temperature at multiple timepoints following 1) control odor exposure, 2) mild stress by 1 min of physical restraint, and 3) PO. We chose mild physical restraint as a stressor because gentle restraint allowed us to avoid potential heat retention. Results showed that compared to control odor, PO, but not mild stress, induced a significant change in muscle temperature across 2hrs. These data suggest that the thermogenic response to PO in rats is mediated by brain substrates specific to predator threat rather than a generalized stress response. In other words, the response to predator threat is likely distinct from the response to other types of stressors. |
Financial Literacy FYE04/09/2019Incoming students at Kent State are required to take a first-year experience class which provides practical information for their future at Kent State. A topic that is missing from the curriculum of this course is financial skills and assistance. Adding education on applying for scholarships and loans, budgeting and making financially sound decisions will equip students with information that they will use well beyond their college years. When assessing peers on how much knowledge they have regarding basic financial information, the results indicated that most college students are uneducated on the topic. Our assessment of current Kent State Students was done via online survey. This information demonstrated that there is a need to inform future students. Following this survey, we held informational interviews with the FYE sector as well as financial faculty. The information obtained will be used to create a program that can be implemented in FYE’s curriculum. Given the lack of knowledge that is present among incoming students, including this program in FYE will equip them with necessary skills for the future. |
First Glance: Impact of Affective Tone on the Perceptions of Friendliness and Political Ideology04/09/2019Currently, it seems that the United States is split politically (Gentzkow, 2016), which could be largely related to emotionally charged and hyperbolic use of language in the media (Graber & Dunaway, 2017). However, it is currently less clear how paralinguistic cues (e.g., non-lexical elements of speech, such as tone of voice) may shape the interpretation of others that behave in a politically motivated way (e.g., Brandon has a pro-choice bumper sticker on his vehicle.). In the current study, we use a computer mouse-tracking paradigm (see Freeman & Ambady, 2010) to evaluate action dynamics associated with positive and negative social judgements made about a social other when they are described performing a liberal or conservative behavior (in a positive, negative, or neutral tone of voice). An initial evaluation of the data indicated that the participants were more liberally leaning and tended to rate individuals who behaved liberally as more friendly. Additionally, listeners exhibited more hesitation in expressing their political alignment when a negative tone of voice was used to describe liberal behaviors. Whereas, listeners experienced more cognitive competition when responding to conservative statements overall, but particularly when a neutral tone described the conservative statements. It could be that when the vocal tone matches the listeners political ideology, decision making is easier. However, when the tone does not match the political ideology then listeners’ cognition for decision making is impacted. This could suggest that non-positively valenced tone of voice has the potential to perturb the cognitive system regarding political affiliation and ideology. |