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2020
Wednesday, April 1st

Optimization and Design of Convergent-Divergent Rocket Nozzles

Jack Steinagel, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program
Manuel Abadie, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation - Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing

Converget-Divergent nozzle profiles can vary in geometry. In this research, the objective is to find the optimum configuration for the different geometries commonly used in the Aerospace Industry. Our research will analyze conical, parabolic, dual bell, and Deich nozzle geometries through Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulations.

Childhood Abuse, Invalidation, and Personality in a College Population

Kayleigh Heard, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

This study examines the relationships among child maltreatment and personality characteristics within a college population. The aim is to replicate previous findings demonstrating personality differences between those with and without histories of child maltreatment and to extend research by examining potential personality differences related to different forms of child maltreatment.

Conditional Independence: The Legacy of Colonialism in Modern Postcolonial Institutions

Zakiya T. Daniel, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

To what extent do modern postcolonial societies retain the values of their colonial past? The endurance of racial inequality is a consequence of postcolonial governments’ failure to remedy legacies of colonial hierarchies. Examination of the Brazilian education system reveals how the colonial status quo persists through modern institutions and policies.

The Culture Gap: The Role of Culture in Successful Refugee Settlement

Chelsea Riley, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

There are multiple global refugee crises today. The existing literature lacks quantitative analysis and is mostly limited to psychology and sociology. I expect that cultural distance between refugees and the country of settlement will result in poorer social integration of refugees. I will conduct both quantitative and case-study analysis.

A Novel Method to Measure Exocytosis and Endocytosis Rates using Lipophilic Dye Fluorescence in Fission Yeast

Katherine Barrs, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

We investigated how fission yeast modify endocytosis and exocytosis by testing a high-throughput assay to measure the rate of exocytosis and endocytosis in live cells. The methodology produced consistent rates for exocytosis and endocytosis on short timescales, ~0-15 minutes. Future results could have important implications for other eukaryotes including humans.

Improved Signal Performance Data

Devin Ferrell, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing

This project involved collecting and analyzing data from a smartphone’s connections and making the information available through a simple application interface. Extensive use of the Swift programming language and the Xcode compiler were key development tools in creating a user-friendly presentation of the data.

Study of the Efficiency and Effectiveness of the First Four Iterations of Sierpinski Carpet Fractal-like Fins at Increasing Angles of Natural Convection

Sophia N. Fleri, Georgia Southern University

Thesis Presentation- Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing

A device’s thermal management system should retain internal temperature within the desired operational range. Electronics typically require extended surfaces to dissipate heat by increasing surface area as fins. The fins’ geometries utilized in this study are inspired by the first four iterations of the Sierpinski Carpet fractal pattern.

Green Book and BlacKKKlansman: an Analysis of White and Black Perspectives in Contemporary Films Using Critical Race Theory

Kelsie Posey, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

This research analyzes two 2018 films, Green Book and BlacKKKlansman, to uncover the connections between diverse racial representation off-screen, and the presentation of non-white perspectives on-screen. This study uses Critical Race Theory to frame the effects of diverse source materials and production teams on the films' narratives.

An Interior Design Based Evaluation of Noise in a University Learning Environment

Margaret Price, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

This research evaluates the noise levels of a frequently used computer lab in the Interdisciplinary Academic Building at Georgia Southern University. The researcher discovered that the room’s noise level exceeds recommended standards. Design modifications were made to the computer lab with Revit software to promote noise absorption and better acoustics.

Fantasy Among Self-Described Geeks

Katelyn Hughes, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Fantasy engagement is where an individual participates in lifestyles and/or activities that suspend reality. The study assessed the potential benefits of fantasy engagement, including overall well-being and social support. Potential benefits were examined to see if they predict higher levels of fantasy engagement above and beyond negative mental health variables.

Intersectionality in Title VII: A Legal Claim Analysis

Ariana Brabham, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Intersectionality is a recently developed construct coined by critical race theorist, Kimberlé Crenshaw. It can be defined as the interlocking of identities that often entail two forms of discriminations at the same time. I research how these different forms of discrimination may interact with one another from a legal perspective. More narrowly, I will examine cases under Title VII that allege biases within employment. By utilizing the data comprised by Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s (EEOC) Litigation Project at Washington University Law, I research Title VII claims. I compare success rates among three type of Title VII allegations: race discrimination, gender discrimination, and intersectional discrimination of both.

Patronage, Democracy, and Policy Change

Mykaela Brown, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Patronage can exist anywhere in the world, but in the context of global capitalism and democracy, patronage operates in a different way. By using Transparency International’s Global Corruption Barometer and Corruption Perceptions Index, this paper argues that patronage in democracies determines whose interests are addressed first.

The #MeToo Movement and Social Dominance Orientation

Elaine Forbes, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Social Dominance Orientation (SDO) measures an individual's desire to maintain the current social hierarchy. We investigated the effect of the #MeToo Movement on SDO scores in men compared to women. We predicted that perceived threat priming by the #MeToo Movement articles will lead to enhanced SDO in male participants.

Comparing Water Quality and Nutrient Concentration between Aquaponics Systems with Differing Filter Media, Waste Removal Methods and Output in Plant Grow Beds

John Cutt, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

We measured the ammonium, nitrate, potassium, pH, dissolved oxygen and conductivity parameters of two aquaponics systems that mainly differed in the settling chamber. This was done in an attempt to find which system yielded more optimal conditions for plant and fish growth.

Effect of Fire Suppression on Aquatic Invertebrates in Ephemeral Wetlands Embedded in Longleaf Pine Forests

Hailey Baker, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

Longleaf pine forests rely on the disturbance of fire in order to maintain a balanced ecosystem. To understand the importance of fire, this study examined the effects of fire suppression on aquatic invertebrates in ephemeral wetlands embedded in longleaf pine forests, an important habitat that links aquatic and terrestrial environments.

Examining the Mechanistic Roles of Integrin Alpha-6 in Cancer Metastasis

Chase Clark, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

Prior studies have indicated that the transmembrane cell surface protein Integrin Alpha-6 may be upregulated in many types of cancers and promote the migration and invasion of cancer cells. Through in-vitro experimentation I tested the varying migration rates of pancreatic cancer cells expressing different forms of Integrin Alpha-6.

Investigating the Toxicology of Intramuscular Injected CNT-AB in Mice Followed by Microwave Hyperthermia

Conner Clark, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

The advent of carbon nanotubes (CNT’s) has prompted a wide range of research in various fields but more specifically in cancer therapy for localized and site-specific treatment. We sought to affirm the initial results of CNTs in cancer therapy by investigating the toxicology in mice injected with CNT-Ab followed by microwave hypothermia.

The Adaptive Benefit of Decoy Coloration Depends on Decoy Color and Habitat Type

Jamie Ryan Heninger, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

Predator prey interactions are a major driver of morphological evolution. The mole skink uses decoy coloration to draw predatory attacks to less lethal parts of their bodies. We wanted to know if red or blue was the more beneficial autonomous tail color in open or closed habitat

The Effects of Overlying Snow Depth on Arctic Interstitial Sea Ice Communities

Travis C. Anderson, Georgia Southern University

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

One of the most crucial, though understudied, polar ecosystems affected by increasing air and water temperatures is landfast sea ice. As sea water freezes, salt ions are pushed out during crystallization and form dense hypersaline waterways known as brine channels. These brine channels are teeming with life, though the community structure and how it is influenced by abiotic changes are largely unknown. I wanted to look at how changes in irradiance affected community dynamics and predicted that more irradiance would result in greater abundances of photosynthetic microalgae. To conduct this research, a snow gradient with gradually increasing snow depths were maintained overlying landfast Arctic sea ice. After six weeks, cores were taken from beneath the gradient, melted, and the microalgal community identified and numerated to determine the altered irradiance affects on interstitial community dynamics. Results indicated that abiotic changes in light availability and ice insulation, both heavily dependent on overlying snow, significantly affect both interstitial community abundance and diversity. Climate warming in the Arctic is likely to cause losses in overlying snow, dramatically changing the sea ice community. How these changes in the sea ice community affect the underlying marine ecosystem is still unknown.

The Symbolic Computation of Matrix Functions in a Numerical Environment

Evan D. Butterworth, Georgia Southern University

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

Within Computational Systems, the significance of programs involving systems of differential equations cannot be overemphasized. Beginning with a particular focus on the analysis and computation of the matrix exponential, we developed our results by constructing a diverse toolbox of matrix functions, having multiple applications to complex dynamical systems.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 significantly reduced income tax rates for corporations from 35 to 25 percent. This represents a great opportunity for corporations to increase their capital expenditures in order to increase economic productivity and recover from the effects of the Corona Virus pandemic.

Adam Puckett, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Parker College of Business

Utilizing professional sales competition videos taken from a university Sales program, the current study investigates the link between nonverbal gestures made by salespeople and performance scores given by professional sales recruiters watching their role plays. The results of this study may suggest a relationship between gesture use and perceptions of sales ability.

Direct to Consumer Genetic Testing: Educating Nurses to Educate Patients

Lori Boltz, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Waters College of Health Professions

This project was designed to assess the knowledge/comprehension level of graduate students regarding the availability and reliability of Direct to Consumer Genetic Testing. Research included The Human Genome Project, genetics literature and student surveys. The resulting data was acquired from FNP student baseline familiarity in genetic predication and interpretation.

The Effects of Empathy on Compassion Fatigue and Quality of Life in Bachelor of Science Nursing Students

Parker Intonato, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Waters College of Health Professions

Empathy, a core characteristic of nurses, has been shown to increase levels of compassion fatigue and potentially decrease quality of life in nursing students. This study explores the relationship between empathy and its effects on compassion fatigue and quality of life in Bachelor of Science Nursing Students utilizing the ProQOL tool.

Monday, April 27th

Symposium Introduction

Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Introductory Speech

The Spring 2020 Honors Virtual Symposium was presented on YouTube from April 27-May 1, 2020. The annual symposium provides a venue for graduating seniors to discuss their Honors Thesis / Honors Project scholarship. Honors students in their first, second, and third years were invited to present their work in electronic poster form. The event was held in electronic format this year due to the impact of COVID-19 on the campus schedule. The presentations from the Virtual Honors Symposium are archived here in Digital Commons@Georgia Southern.

The University Honors Program is an inclusive community of scholars that fosters intellectual and professional development through undergraduate research and creative scholarship, experiential learning, global engagement, and personalized mentorship. Please find more information about Undergraduate Research and the Honors Program, including past research events and Honors Theses online at our Undergraduate Research page.

Optimizing Generative Adversarial Networks for Low Resolution Image Enhancement

Maria Gonzalez, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program
Justin Hall, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation - Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing

Our research focuses on optimizing the performance of Generative Adversarial Networks to increase image resolution through various methods and approaches. The limitations posed by current digital storage mediums poses a unique problem which may be resolved through the use of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs).

Visual Communication and the Design Principles: An analysis of “Beyond Swimming: Playing in the Cold Waters of Alaska”

Brenna Salverson, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

I analyzed the effective visual communication of “Beyond Swimming: Playing in the Cold Waters of Alaska.” Design is key to visuals; therefore, analysis was done using the four design principles. Contrast, repetition, alignment, and proximity are often found in well-designed visuals and co-operate to effectively communicate information.

Examining Personal and Structural Mental Healthcare Disparities in Transgender Individuals

Aiden Mintah-Jumbo, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

This research examines the mental healthcare barriers that exist for transgender/gender non-conforming individuals versus cisgender individuals in an attempt to further understand the healthcare gap between these distinct populations. These findings will provide new insights to address healthcare barriers and develop clinical programming and educational materials suited to this community.

Exploring the Fine Line Between Cultural Appropriation and Cultural Appreciation

Yasmine Mosley, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Today’s consumers appreciate multicultural advertising and many fashion brands have incorporated cultural elements into their ad campaigns in response. However, knowledge of consumers’ perception of cultural appropriation and appreciation is limited, and recent campaigns garnered criticism for their misuse of cultural elements. This study’s purpose is to identify consumers’ perceptions.

Languages of Morocco

Nathan Carpenter, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

The Kingdom of Morocco utilizes multiple languages (Standard Arabic, Darija, Amazigh, Spanish, French, and others) in multiple ways. This brief research project with consider how this multilingualism effects how the government communicates with the populace.

Synesthetic Perception: Exploring the Senses of a Synesthete Through Theatrical Art-Wear

Makenna Trujillo, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell are our standard informational inputs to perceive the world, but sometimes triggering one can offset one or more unrelated senses. This neurological condition is called synesthesia. The purpose of my work is to explore and share my synesthetic experience through apparel design.

Waste or Resource: Exploring and Utilizing Fabric Waste from the Apparel Design Classroom

Mackenzie Miller, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

25% of all fabric in clothing manufacturing becomes waste with less than 1% of that recycled into new garments. The purpose of this research was to examine the waste created in the fashion design classroom and evaluate the effects of collecting waste on students. This was completed by placing bins in the sewing lab to collect fabric waste instead of in the trash can. Additionally, to understand what other programs were doing in regard to fabric waste, 22 apparel design educators completed an electronic survey about fabric waste collection practices. Results provide insight on how academia can reduce their overall environmental impact and incorporate sustainable design practices, thus impacting the entire apparel industry.

Circulation Transfer in Ring Bose-Einstein Condensates

Stephen Thomas, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Poster Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

We studied how flow can be transferred between two adjacent ring-shaped gaseous Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs). Flow was induced in one BEC and a barrier was raised producing a density depression between the BECs under differing conditions. We then detected whether the flow was transferred to the other condensate.

MusEEG: An Accessible, Facial Expression Brain-Computer Interface

Hugo Flores Garcia, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing

An open-source, facial expression brain-computer music interface (BCMI) for music performance is proposed. MusEEG aims to provide people with motor disabilities and various levels of music creation and/or performance experience with an opportunity to make music.

Study on the Viability of Preparing Plaster Molds for Rapid Prototyping of Complex Ceramic Parts using the Lost PLA Method

Shelton Fowler, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing

This project covers the use of standard plastic 3D prints to create complex ceramic parts using lost PLA casting. Lost PLA casting is typically used in investment metal casting, but this study seeks to evaluate the viability of this process in creating plaster molds for ceramic slurry casting.

Breaking Black Boundaries: The Poetry of Rita Dove

LaVonna Wright, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

By tracing the motifs of classical music, ballroom dancing, and domestic space within Rita Dove’s Thomas and Beulah, Grace Notes, Sonata Mulattica, and American Smooth, this thesis presents how she both challenges and expands Black poetic culture by exploring topics previously considered outside of the purview of Black poets.

Combating Elitism in Nonprofit Organizations and Increasing Volunteer Retention Rates

Emily Dietrich, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

Elitism is a major problem in nonprofits today. Volunteers make up the majority of NPOs and retaining regular volunteers means improving community outreach, maximizing funding, and increasing longevity. Volunteerism is at an all time low. It is time for nonprofits to analyze factors within their organizations that inhibit volunteers returning.

Forget Me Nots: Seven Short Stories of Historically Overlooked Women

Kate Wood, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

Project VENONA: Breaking the Unbreakable Code

Cassandra Hankin, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

Project VENONA was a top-secret counterintelligence program initiated by the United States Army Signals Intelligence Service during World War II. VENONA was established to decipher intercepted Soviet communications and break the “unbreakable” Soviet code system. Examining Project VENONA and its discoveries is vital to understanding the history of the early Cold War.

Reframing the Role of Renaissance Women: Anne Boleyn as a Humanist

Kara Guthrie, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

Shackles and Servitude: Jails and the Enslaved in Antebellum Savannah

Haley Osborne, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

Though slaves were considered private property, slavery in Savannah was a publicly-funded institution. Slaveholders relied on the city's jail to house slaves who had broken the city's curfew, keep runaway slaves captive, and administer punishment to 'unruly' slaves at their owner's discretion.

The “Clean Wehrmacht”: Myths about German War Crimes Then and Now

Narayan Saviskas, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

After the Second World War, a concentrated effort was made to rehabilitate the image of the German military so that it could be rebuilt and used for the Cold War.

Up to Date Nostalgia

Emma Lewis, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

The art world is constantly on the search for the new while the allure of nostalgia stays ever present. The juxtaposition and tension between the two demonstrates where the current art scene lies.

Why Love is Not Enough: The Danger of Emotionally Abusive Relationships in Adolescence

Hope Walker, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Arts and Humanities

By examining how emotional abuse is affecting teens today and discussing the importance of depicting emotional abuse in literature, I will explain how my Young Adult novel will offer a fresh take on educating others on emotional abuse.

Attachment Style: Connecting the Personality Traits of our Parents to How We See God

Kaitlyn Holcombe, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Personalities of parents influence attachment styles, and because attachment styles impact relationships later in life, parent personality was hypothesized to have an effect on divine attachment. By partially replicating a study, correlations and multiple regressions showed the perceived parent personality trait of extraversion to have significant effect on divine attachments.

Does Description Equal Prescription? A Case for Gender Quotas in Latin America

Samuel Hobbs, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Extant research demonstrates that gender quotas do increase women’s descriptive representation in national legislatures, including in Latin America (Smith 2016; Mark et al 2012). However, how does this affect legislation? I use Chile’s national legislative database to determine laws classified as gendered legislation. Based on my findings, there is an overall increase in gendered legislation passed.

Ego Depletion and Prayer as a Potential Buffer

Morgan Kennon, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

We used a cognitive task to induce ego depletion, defined as the loss of self-control subsequent to exercising control. After depletion, we tested prayer as a possible replenisher for lost self-control. Although prayer failed to buffer depletion, results provided additional support for a positive relationship between self-reported religiosity/spirituality and self-control.

Evaluation of Student Reactions to Consumer Products

Bryce Lesher, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

The purpose of this research is to determine how consumers react when heavily gendered products are advertised by the opposite gender. Additionally, this research will seek to understand if consumer biases to opposite gendered advertisements are positively correlated with aspects of an individual's political affiliation.

Generation Z Preferences: Biophilic Interior Design Incorporated through Visual Art and Technology

Kelly Lesh, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Researching Generation Z and their biophilic preferences will help the hotel industry in the future to create more revenue by knowing who their clients are and what they prefer as a whole. Nature and biophilic design have not been researched on the topic of incorporating it with Generation Z specifically and what they prefer.

Natural Light and Its Effect on Student Perceptions of Learning Performance and Well-being in Classroom Environments

Hannah Smith, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

This study will investigate how natural light affects perceived learning performance and well-being within a learning environment. It is necessary to understand how these factors are affected to implement positive outcomes within interior spaces. When students feel greater levels of well-being in their education, they can perform at higher levels.

Recreating a Classical Sleeping Beauty Tutu and Bodice Using Modern Methods

Gennevieve Wright, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Tchaikovsky’s ballet Sleeping Beauty was first produced in the Mariinsky Theatre January 15, 1890, and the design of the principal tutus have changed over the years. With this project I have reconstructed Fairy Violenta's costume, and I will be examining the differences in stitching techniques from 1890 and today.

The Effects of a Powerful Military on Compliance with International Human Rights Tribunals

Ian Sheppard, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Are states with a powerful military force less likely to comply with European Court of Human Rights and Inter-American Court of Human Rights judgements? I expand upon Hillebrecht’s research by looking beyond domestic institutions like executive power and an independent judiciary, and look at the military power of states instead.

The Impact of Lighting Type on Consumer Behavior in the Purchase of Healthy Products

Sarah Hartmann, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

This project explores how lighting in the produce section of a supermarket influences a consumer's decision to purchase healthier options. For this study, subjects were administered a pre and post survey and viewed renderings. This new knowledge expands this area of design and shows why lighting is important to consider when constructing these spaces.

Analysis of Mechanism and Kinetics of 2,6-Bis-(tricyclohexylphoshiniminomethyl)-benzene Nickel(II) with Electrophilic Halogenated Solvents

Emma Garcia, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

Simultaneous C-C and C-N bond formation reactions were investigated from our novel organonickel(II) N-C-N pincer complex (LNiBr). Characterization of our complex and its reaction kinetics were completed by combining LNiBr with electrophilic halogenated solvents and monitored by ³¹P NMR to determine the presence of intermediates and the reaction order.

Assessment of the Toxicological Effects of CNT-Ab in Mice Followed by Microwave Hyperthermia 14 Days Post Treatment

Andrew Mixson, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

Designing Peptides to Bind kappa B DNA and Mimic NF-kappa B Protein Complexes

Nicholas Markowich, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

This research aims to design peptides capable of safely mimicking and inhibiting nuclear factor-kappa B transcription factors to regulate transcription and decrease overexpression. Three NF-κB peptide mimics were analyzed using isothermal titration calorimetry and fluorescence to study binding affinity to κB DNA. Circular dichroism was utilized to study their structures.

Electrolytic Oxidative Coupling of Alcohols with Aldehydes to Form Esters

Katherine Verboom, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

Esters are common and widely used in industry. Traditional methods of ester synthesis involve a reaction between a carboxylic acid and an alcohol in the presence of a Bronsted acid catalyst. This research project focused on carrying out the ester synthesis using the electrochemical coupling of aldehydes with alcohols.

Immunomodulatory and Anti-cancer Effects of Neem and Nilavembu on Zebrafish

Margaux Solheim, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

A study of the potential anti-cancer properties of herbal agents Neem and Nilavembu. Zebrafish embryos were treated with an herbal solution for five days; on day three of five, the zebrafish were treated with human cancer and on the fifth day, the embryos were stained and observed.

Species Dispersal Modes in Amphitropical Plant Species of North and South America

Samera Mulatu, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

Amphitropical disjunct plants are species that occur in both North and South America but not in the intermediate equatorial region. How amphitropical species dispersed across the Americas to their current distribution still remains uncertain. To explain amphitropical distributions, three hypotheses were developed to test that (1) species dispersed successively through island hopping across the tropical zone in temperate microhabitats (= stepping stones), (2) species came to their current distribution through vicariance, or (3) species dispersed by a single long distance dispersal event. Twenty five amphitropical species were studied to infer their historical distributions with species distribution models in MaxEnt. Distribution models for each amphitropical species were estimated under three different timelines: the current climate, the last glacial maximum (22,000 years ago), and the last interglacial maximum (120,000–140,000 years ago). Ecological niche models were generated in MaxEnt with 19 bioclimate variables from the WorldClim database. Across the three time slices, the vicariance hypothesis was rejected in all but one species for one of its time slice. In 13 experiments, the long distance dispersal and vicariance hypotheses were rejected in favor of the stepping stone hypothesis. In 37 experiments, the stepping stone and vicariance hypotheses were rejected in favor of long distance dispersal. There were three species that could have dispersed by shorter-distance-dispersal events via intermediate dispersal from Mexico. Although our results suggest that long distance dispersal was the most dominant mechanism of dispersal among amphitropical species, they also convey that that numerous shorter-distance-dispersal events via intermediate, favorable populations are an underappreciated mode of dispersal in amphitropical species.

Structure Activity Relationship (SAR) Studies of Neurotoxin Quinoline-Derivatives

Dylan Smeyne, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

While studying in vivo toxicity of this molecule in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo, we observed that it has a unique biological activity that causes a sudden inactivity in embryo movement. Continued investigation revealed that this molecule blocks sodium channels in neurons causing a temporary anesthesia in Danio rerio embryo.

Synthesized Tripodal Amine as Potential Anti-Cancer Therapeutic

Abigail McNamee, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

A novel, synthesized tris-indolyl compound (GS02) was tested for anti-cancer properties. Experimental methods included MTS and apoptosis assays. Current results show a decrease in PC3 cell viability through apoptosis. Interestingly, GS02 was shown to be toxic within a specific concentration range which may be beneficial for a new chemotherapy agent.

The Combined Effects of Chemicals Used in Textile Processing on Plankton Communities

Diana Wilson, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

Flame retardants (THPC) used in textile processing are discharged into surface waters. However, THPC enters aquatic environments in mixture with ammonium and hydrogen peroxide, potentially affecting zooplankton in unpredictable ways. Surprisingly, zooplankton mortality appeared to be affected only by the presence of THPC, whether alone or mixed with other chemicals.

The Effects of Auditory Predator Cues on Foraging Behavior in Peromyscus polionotus

Christina Sartain, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

In this study we evaluated the importance of acoustic signals as direct cues. We conducted trials at five Peromyscus polionotus burrows. Each contained bait and emitted a predator call. These included coyote, owl, white-noise, or silence. Our results suggest that Peromyscus polionotus may use auditory cues to assess foraging risk.

The Role of JAK/STAT Pathway and Broad Expression in Proper Border Cell Migration in Drosophila Melanogaster During Development

Cameron Driskell, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

The differentiation and migration of cells in Drosophila egg chambers are highly influenced by pathways, which are in turn influenced by specific gene expression. By using the Gal4/UAS system to manipulate the levels of Broad, the effects of gene expression can be analyzed in the migration of border cells.

The Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in the Gut Immune Response of Cat Fleas (Ctenocephalides felis)

Clark Hall, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- College of Science and Mathematics

In this study, we utilized cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) to investigate whether natural infections with bacteria induce reactive oxygen species (ROS)synthesis in the flea gut, and whether production of ROS provides a defense mechanism against microbial colonization in the flea gut.

A Study into the Continuation of Work Life Balance

Hayley Fritch, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Parker College of Business

This study will examine the continuation of a person’s work-life balance from their college years into their career through the use of survey data. This information gives human resource professionals insight into the success of a candidate during the hiring process based on their work-life balance.

Investigating the Influence of a Web Based Logistics Tool on the Effectiveness of Operations for the Center of Innovation for Logistics of Georgia

David Vaughn, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Parker College of Business

The logistics sector in Georgia is growing thanks to organizations like the Center of Innovation for Logistics. They work with thousands of companies to cultivate new business and opportunities for the state. This can be time-consuming so we are investigating how a web-based data tool may help streamline their work.

Measuring the Lag: How long does it take AACSB and Universities to catch up to AICPA?

Ashley Kubel, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Parker College of Business

This research explores Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accredited business schools and their use of educational guidance from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) based on course offerings and requirements. The data intends to show how quickly schools of accountancy catch up to the advice offered from the world's largest member association representing the accounting profession.

Seeking Justice: Reform to the Resolution of Sexual Harassment Workplace Claims

Maygen Martinez, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Parker College of Business

The #MeToo Movement has renewed focus on workplace sexual harassment and has spawned an uptick in the number of legal claims filed. This article anticipates the impact of increased sexual harassment claims on the court system and proposes reforms to existing law to ensure employees who bring claims receive justice.

The Effects of the Dodd-Frank Act of 2010 in the Financial Overhaul of the U.S. Banking Industry, the Restoration of Consumer Protection and the Recovery of the U.S. Economy

Austin Wagner, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Parker College of Business

An analysis of the effects of the Dodd-Frank Act, the most influential financial reform legislation on the banking industry since the Glass-Stegall Act of 1933 that followed the Great Depression, with a comparison of other major financial and consumer reform legislation and the historical impact between regulation and deregulation.

The Effects of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 on Capital Expenditures

Carlos Parodi, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Parker College of Business

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 significantly reduced income tax rates for corporations from 35 to 25 percent. This represents a great opportunity for corporations to increase their capital expenditures in order to increase economic productivity and recover from the effects of the Corona Virus pandemic.

The Super Bowl and Individual State Income Taxes

Benjamin Cosby, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Parker College of Business

Every year the NFL Super Bowl is held in a different state. Due to the differing state income tax rates, there is incentive for the NFL Super Bowl to be held in some states over others. Over the past 21 years, the Super Bowl has occurred more often in low tax states.

Direct vs. Computer Training for Improving Social Cognition in Adults with Traumatic Brain Injury

Elizabeth Lohman, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Waters College of Health Professions

Social cognition is the use of cognitive processes to communicate in social situations. This literature review compares the effectiveness of two social cognition treatment approaches, direct treatment and computer-based treatment, at improving social cognitive skills after a moderate to severe traumatic brain injury in adults.

Does Religious Belief Affect Attitudes Towards Mental Illness?

Robert Conway, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Waters College of Health Professions

This project looked at the correlation between religious beliefs and stigma towards mental illness. An educational intervention to lessen stigma was unsuccessful due to the failure to secure the participation of any places of worship. This paper looks at the public prejudices encountered by the mentally ill in seeking treatment.

Evaluating Fluent Performance of Daily Living Skills Tasks: A Closer Look at Variability within T-Shirt Folding

Sara Dietrich, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Waters College of Health Professions

This research aims to evaluate fluent performance of daily living skills tasks. This sub-study takes a closer look at variability within the task of t-shirt folding. Determining variability among tasks may help in determining the breadth of what constitutes behavioral fluency within daily living skills tasks.

Lowering Antibiotic Resistance Utilizing Breastmilk

Moriah Harris, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Waters College of Health Professions

Antibiotic resistance is an emerging crisis in the healthcare world. Studies have found that sugars, proteins and protein-lipid complexes in breastmilk have antimicrobial properties. These properties in breastmilk can help solve the antibacterial resistance crisis. This research project involved studying antibiotic resistance and how breastmilk can help solve this crisis.

Muscle Excitation and Kinematics of the Lower Extremity During a Single Leg Rotational Squat in Individuals With and Without a Previous Hamstrings Strain Injury

Claudia Simpson, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Waters College of Health Professions

The study’s purpose was to determine muscle excitation patterns of the lower extremity during a single leg rotational squat in individuals with and without previous hamstrings injury. The results suggest that individuals with a previous injury perceive a physical deficit, but muscle excitation patterns are similar to their healthy counterpart.

Student Perceptions of the Use of Therapy Dogs in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Taylor Alberts, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Waters College of Health Professions

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a technique that trained, healthcare professionals use with animals to meet the goal-directed behaviors of their patients during treatment. The goal of this survey study was to document the perceptions of 42 undergraduate students’ beliefs of AAT in CSD.

The Relationship between Optimism and BMI in Generation Z – An Exploratory Investigation.

Allison Tucker, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Waters College of Health Professions

Optimism is defined as explaining and expecting the future in a positive manner (Seligman, 2017). Biber and Czech (2015) have shown a significant negative correlation between optimism and overall BMI. The purpose of this study is to examine differences between Optimism and Healthy, Overweight and Obese Generation Z university students.

Undergraduate Nursing Student Perceptions and Knowledge on Chest Tube Drainage Systems

Nada Kent, Georgia Southern University, Honors Program

Thesis Presentation- Waters College of Health Professions

A convenience sample of prelicensure baccalaureate nursing students at one four year multiple campus Carnegie Research university were surveyed using a voluntary 10-question multiple style survey designed to evaluate common perceptions and levels of understanding for a chest tube drainage system, a device beginning with the Trocar and needle placed in the thoracic cavity to remove air and fluid all the way to the drainage system that collects the fluid/air removed, among current prelicensure baccalaureate nursing students at a four year university of all levels. The questionnaire explored basic knowledge and level of comfort and understanding of chest tube drainage systems. The data was collected using a free online survey service provided by the university.