Welcome to the University of Mary Hardin-
Baylor’s biannual Watson Scholars’ Day, newly named in honor of Dr. Darrell Watson, Emeritus Professor of Chemistry and former Dean of the College of Sciences. Watson Scholars’ Day is sponsored by UMHB’s Office of Research and showcases outstanding undergraduate and graduate research that has taken place on the UMHB campus during the academic year. Over 50 UMHB students and 20 faculty sponsors have contributed to this spring’s presentations. We hope you enjoy meeting with these UMHB scholars today and learning about their exciting research. Thanks for being a part of this important academic event!
*Cover art designed by David Sulsh, a graduate of UMHB’s Department of Biology.
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Schedule of Events Time
Event
8:00–11:20 AM
Papers/other presentations (Great Hall C/D, Bawcom Student Union)
11:15 AM— 12:15 PM
Lecture by Dr. Heather Francis (Great Hall A/B, Bawcom Student Union)
1:00–2:15 PM
Poster Session Presentations (Great Hall lobby, Bawcom Student Union)
Paper Panels (In Great Hall C)
8:00-9:00 AM 9:00-9:40 AM 9:40-10:20 AM 10:20-11:00 AM
Humanities Panel, Women & World Issues Dostoevsky Panel Shakespeare Panel Christian Studies Panel
(In Great Hall D) 8:00-9:45 AM 9:45-10:20 AM 10:20-11:20 AM
Business Panel Psychology Panel Education Panel
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“Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: An Expanding Epidemic” Dr. Heather Francis
11:15 AM (Great Hall A/B, Bawcom Student Union)
Obesity & metabolic syndrome have become worldwide health issues and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the fastest growing epidemics in the country. Mechanisms to better understand the regulation of NAFLD is greatly lacking & our data will provide insight into the role that histamine and mast cells play during NAFLD progression. ________________
SCHOLARS’ DAY GUEST SPEAKER Dr. Heather Francis served as an assistant professor at Baylor Scott & White from 2011 – 2016 and now serves as an associate professor at the Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine. She also serves as an adjunct biology instructor here at UMHB. Dr. Francis has a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Sul Ross State University and her Ph.D. in Medical Sciences from the Texas A&M HSC College of Medicine. Dr. Francis has worked in research since 1997, starting as a bench technician and eventually starting an independently funded lab in 2011. Her research focuses on liver diseases including cholestatic liver injury, liver cancer and fatty liver disease. The lab uses standard molecular biology techniques and animal studies to understand the mechanisms that regulate these diseases. Dr. Francis’ work has been published in high impact factor journals, including Hepatology, as well as presented at national and international meetings. 4
Dr. Francis currently lives in Belton with her two daughters, one who is a UT graduate, and the younger, a BHS graduate who will attend Texas State in the fall of 2017.
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POSTER SESSION
1:00-2:15 PM (Bawcom Student Union, Great Hall Lobby) #1 — Healing or Stealing: Generic vs Trade Name Antibiotic Ointments Abstract: We sought to determine if a difference exists between the efficacy of generic and trade name antibiotic ointments. Kirby-Bauer disk-diffusion test results demonstrated that no significant differences existed between the antibiotic ointments tested in inhibiting the growth of a common Gram-positive skin microbe, Staphylococcus epidermidis. (Author: Taylor Slack; Faculty Sponsor: Joni Ylostalo) #2 — Effectiveness of Essential Oils on Staphylococcus epidermidis Growth Inhibition Abstract: Because of the increased antibiotic resistance in modern medicine, alternative medicines could provide effective treatments against bacterial infections. Essential oils were tested on their effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis, a common human skin microbe. Results demonstrated that all oils tested were effective inhibitors of Staphylococcus epidermidis growth. (Authors: Sophie Rivera, Alexandra Ritenour; Faculty Sponsor: Joni Ylostalo) #3 — Effects of a Caffeine Blend on Reaction Time, Mental Performance, and Focus in Athletic Populations Abstract: Caffeine is an ergogenic aid that increases focus and performance; however, research is limited using reaction time as a dependent variable. This study used a device that measures the reaction time to both visual and auditory stimuli in an exercise-induced fatigue model to see if caffeine ingestion improved performance. (Author: Javier Zaragoza, Stacie Urbina, Katelyn Villa, Matthias Tinnin, Torrey Boggs, Seth Bates; Faculty Sponsor: Lem Taylor) 6
#4 — A Comparison of Standards for Teachers of English Language Learners Abstract: This study examined standards for teachers of English Language Learners (ELLs) in Texas to national standards for teachers of ELLS in order to compare expectations for teacher certification. (Author: Lindsey Wash; Faculty Sponsor: Jodi Pilgrim) #5 — Towards a More Trustful Online Marketplace through Integrating User Accounts with Paypal Abstract: The goal of this project is to study and develop a prototype solution to integrate Internet forum user’s accounts with their Paypal accounts. In this solution, the Internet forum users log in with their PayPal accounts. That will improve the trustfulness among forum users and reduce online frauds. (Author: Jaer Quijivix-Sweeney; Faculty Sponsor: Chao Gong) #6 — Locus of Control, Perfectionism, and Academic Achievement Abstract: This study explored whether locus of control (LOC) and perfectionism is related to academic performance. Traits examined include responsibility, balanced thinking, and procrastination. Initial results revealed that students with a higher external LOC had achieved less academically on exams and overall GPA. Analysis of perfectionism and academic achievement is ongoing. (Author: Bailey Stueve; Faculty Sponsor: Trent Terrell) #7 — Viscosities of Sweet and Unsweetened Teas with Possible Application to Development of Dental Caries Abstract: The viscosities (resistances to flow) of various sweetened and unsweetened teas available in the Belton area were studied at 25oC. Calculations were based on water as a reference with determination of densities and flow times. Higher viscosities of beverages can be predictors of increased risk of dental caries. (Author: Alvaro Noriega Ramirez; Faculty Sponsor: Ruth Ann Murphy) 7
#8 — Comparison of Physical Properties of Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Skin Emollients with Application to Environment Impact Abstract: In this temperature-controlled investigation, the viscosity, density, and surface tension of different concentrations of dimethylpolysiloxane in hexanes solutions are compared to the viscosity, density, and surface tension of different concentrations of coconut oil in n-propanol solutions. (Author: Savannah Robinson; Faculty Sponsor: Ruth Ann Murphy) #9 — The Effects of Gum Chewing on Short-Term Memory Recall Abstract: This experiment tested the effects of gum chewing on short-term memory recall. Students who chewed gum while watching a movie trailer correctly answered more questions about it than a control group, suggesting that gum chewing provides a modest boost to working memory performance. (Authors: Lauren Baty, Traci Harris, Patrick Sivils, Savannah Lawrence; Faculty Sponsor: Trent Terrell) #10 — Synthesis of a Phosphazene-based Host Compound Abstract: The focus of this work was to synthesize a well-known phosphazene host compound using methods that are better suited for an undergraduate organic chemistry lab. Using microscale amounts of reagents it was found that undried methylene chloride, as a solvent, facilitated almost immediate formation of the phosphazene product. This approach differs from current literature which reports the use of anhydrous tetrahydrofuran (THF) and reaction times that are greater than three hours. (Author: Brandi Jefferson, Shailey Hearn; Faculty Sponsor: Paul Primrose)
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PAPER SESSIONS Business Panel 8:00-9:45 AM (BSU Great Hall D)
Paper #262: Healthcare Information Systems in India and the USA Abstract: As healthcare information systems (HIS) become increasingly critical to patient care and hospital operations, the global HIS market has grown significantly over the last decade. The purpose of this study is to find the different demand and development stage of HIS by comparing HIS in India and the USA. (Authors: Kota Mounika, Manyam Venugopal; Faculty Sponsor: Frank Lee) Paper #263: The Impact of Human Error on the Healthcare Data Breach Abstract: The study finds that over 90% of healthcare data breaches are caused by theft in mobile devices left in the car or vehicle belonging to a healthcare professional. The findings of this study suggest that a healthcare organization should provide an appropriate security training to employees. (Authors: Mahavir Jain, Sree Vastav Ramanadham; Faculty Sponsor: Frank Lee) Paper #258 Technology Factors Influencing Local Dialects Adoption by Social Media in India Abstract: India is a land of multiple dialects with strong cultural roots. Internet users are increasing in India every year, and many users access the internet for social media networks. The purpose of this study is to identify the technological factors influencing local dialects adoption by social media in India. (Authors: Guru
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Pavan Chakravarthi, Rahul Reddy Mereddy; Faculty Sponsor: Frank Lee) Paper #261: Development of an App to Combat Food Wastage: A Service Learning Project Abstract: This is a service learning project designed as a case study to explore the potential educational benefits of applying service learning to an IT software development project. The study seeks to identify challenges associated with developing and implementing the application. The mobile application is being developed to help connect sources of excess food with volunteers that can distribute the food to local charitable organizations. (Authors: Aparna Chinta, Myrtle Mallela Daiva; Faculty Sponsor: Nancy Bonner) Paper #265: Finding the Relationship between Customer Review and Restaurant Inspection Score Abstract: The information derived from social networks can play a significant role in finding a pattern as well as predicting a future event. The findings of this study imply that the information from the social network may complement the findings from various official government inspections if the information is carefully reviewed and analyzed. (Authors: Menesh Reddy Milkoori, Meghana Srungarapati; Faculty Sponsor: Frank Lee) Paper #280: Parking Satisfaction at UMHB Abstract: Our study involves student satisfaction of UMHB parking. Our group created a survey instrument measuring commuter versus resident, travel time and miles, time-buffer requirement, and overall satisfaction with parking. In future studies we plan to focus on the cost of parking and its effect upon student willingness to pay-for-use. (Authors: Ricky Fairfield, Sydney Gutierrez; Faculty Sponsor: Paul Zeigler)
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Psychology Panel
9:45-10:20 AM (BSU Great Hall D) Paper #266: Literature Review of Inez Beverly Prosser Abstract: Inez Beverly Prosser (1894-1934) became the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. in educational psychology in 1933; however, her career was restricted to only teaching at small, historically African American schools and colleges (Schultz, & Schultz, 2016, p. 12). Even though she faced many racial and gender barriers, she succeeded as dean, professor, registrar, and high school principal. (Author: Bailey Stueve; Faculty Sponsor: Cecilia Erlund) Paper #281: Literature Review of Philip Zimbardo Abstract: Philip Zimbardo, Ph.D. (b. 1933- ), is a professor emeritus of psychology at Stanford University. He is one of the most recognized social psychologists of today. He is acknowledged for his Stanford Prison Experiment in 1971 and his work on shyness, time perspective, and the psychology of evil. (Author: Morgan Hensley; Faculty Sponsor: Cecilia Erlund )
Education Panel 10:20-11:20 AM (BSU Great Hall D) Paper #272: General Educators and the Inclusion Classroom Abstract: The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the experiences of novice general education teachers as they included students with special needs in the inclusion classroom. Interviews of early career general educators in an inclusion classroom provided perspectives regarding challenges of implementing a successful inclusion classroom. (Author: Tracy Hanson; Faculty Sponsor: Christie Bledsoe)
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Paper #268: Managing Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom Abstract: Disruptive classroom behavior impedes the learning environment. The relationship established between the student and the teacher indicates the effectiveness of the strategies used. Bowlby and Ainsworth’s Attachment Theory serves as the theoretical framework for this investigation. Results from this study may contribute to the field of education. (Author: Kahrin Wessel; Faculty Sponsor: Marlene Zipperlen) Paper #285: Metacognitive Thinking to Improve Reading Comprehension for College Ready Students Abstract: A majority of college freshman lack critical thinking skills. Most jobs in the 21st century require some form of postsecondary education. College students must comprehend complex texts and use higher-order thinking to be successful. The researcher reviews literature and a quantitative study on the influence of metacognition and reading comprehension. (Author: Wendy Haider; Faculty Sponsor: Marlene Zipperlen)
Humanities Panel: Women & World Issues 8:00-9:00 AM (BSU Great Hall C) Paper #257: A Survey of Female Writers’ Perspectives: PostIranian Revolution Abstract: After the Iranian Revolution, a new tradition of women’s literature came to life. This paper brings some of the most significant works into dialogue with each other and the wider social atmosphere of Iran in the late twentieth century in order to reveal the self-reflective, self-revelation themes of modern Iranian women’s literature. (Author: Emily Maulding; Faculty Sponsor: Janene Lewis)
Paper #277: “She must be innocent; she cannot be otherwise:” Benevolent Sexism in Anna Katherine Green’s The Leavenworth Case 12
Abstract: By examining the Victorian-era benevolent sexism which influenced Anna Katherine Green’s The Leavenworth Case (1878), this essay addresses the enigma of a female author seemingly condoning these values and calls into question the way that cultural biases distort current readers’ notions of fact and rationale. (Author: Esther Weaver; Faculty Sponsor: Jacky Dumas) Paper #260: Women, Witchcraft and the Church: The Persecution and Subjugation of Women in the Middle Ages Abstract: Overall, the idea of Christianization and misogynistic ideals directly led to the rise of witch hunts. Although the Christian Church began with little influence and even adapted some paganist rituals into their own practices, the Middle Ages saw a decline in the tolerance of the Church and its followers. (Author: Madeline Clay; Faculty Sponsor: Claire Phelan)
Dostoevsky Panel 9:00-9:40 AM (BSU Great Hall C) Paper #287: Dostoevsky's View Against Westernization: The Importance of Feminism in Crime and Punishment Abstract: In an attempt to resist westernization in Russia, Dostoevsky uses various working-class characters to argue the significance of feminism to Russian culture. (Author: Guillermo Lopez; Faculty Sponsor: Joshua Avery) Paper #274: Noses in Dostoevsky: A Reflection of the Spirit Abstract: This presentation examines Dostoevsky’s fictional usage of the nose as a literary device to symbolize the state of the spirit. While other Russian authors were using this motif, I will argue that Dostoevsky further developed it to function in a more sacramental sense. (Author: Celeste Grace Rose; Faculty Sponsor: Joshua Avery) 13
Shakespeare Panel 9:40-10:20 AM (BSU Great Hall C) Paper #283: Younger Brothers and Villainy in Shakespeare Abstract: This paper compares Much Ado About Nothing’s Don John and Richard III’s titular character in order to understand why these Shakespearean villains are so similar. It concludes that Shakespeare uses the character type of scorned younger brothers to criticize England’s upper class. (Author: Serena Del Rosario; Faculty Sponsor: Laura Bedwell) Paper #288: "Is Black So Base A Hue?": Moorish Ambivalence in Titus Andronicus Abstract: An analysis of Shakespeare’s Titus Andronicus – with focus on the character of Aaron the Moor – from the perspective of post-colonial and critical race theories. Aaron proves to be far more complex than simply a two-dimensional villain. (Author: Elizabeth Tabarlet; Faculty Sponsor: Laura Bedwell)
Christian Studies Panel 10:20-11:00 AM (BSU Great Hall C) Paper #276: Fluctuating Spheres: Jane Addams' Inseparable Fight for Justice and Peace Abstract: Jane Addams challenged the traditional role of women in the early 20th century by standing for pacifism during WWI. Through her work at Hull-House and her pacifist stance on the war, Addams conveyed her concern for marginalized people and her belief that peace and justice are inseparably linked. (Author: Laura Ellis; Faculty Sponsor: Carol Holcomb) Paper #256: A Loss of Blackness Abstract: Can getting a proper education to gain social uplift result in a loss of cultural identity? Does developing strong reli14
gious beliefs suddenly uproot the African-American women from their culture? To answer these questions we will examine three women driven by their faith and their need for social uplift. (Author: Alberta Barrett; Faculty Sponsor: Carol Holcomb)
Thank you very much to all the reviewers of poster and paper submissions! 15