Digital Commons Network^™

The Mechanism Of Sex Trafficking And What You Can Do About It, Benjamin J. Huebner

Senior Honors Theses

Awareness for sex trafficking is on a steady incline. Many organizations and events help to raise awareness for sex trafficking and often collect money to combat the issue. However, the unfortunate reality is that the public has gained a non-functional awareness of the issue. The public knows about the problem, they know that the number affected is astronomical, and they know that it is ugly, but they know of no tangible way to work toward the solution. Nothing is wrong with donating to an organization that is working to resolve the issue, but people need to be made aware of …

Behavioral Finance And Its Impact On Investing, Jordan Fieger

Senior Honors Theses

The field of behavioral finance has seen incredible growth over the past half century as it has explored the effect that cognitive psychological biases can have on investors’ financial decisions. Behavioral finance stands in stark contrast to the efficient market hypothesis, as it attributes market inefficiencies to investors who are not perfectly rational human beings. It offers a solution to the observed 3.5% gap that active equity investors miss out on in the market compared to passive index funds, which it attributes to their emotions and psychological biases. These common human biases can be grouped into five major categories: heuristics, …

The Importance Of Branding In Small Businesses, Amber J. Rabie

Senior Honors Theses

The Land of Milk & Honey Farm exists to provide quality food produced in facilities that practice good stewardship to the Earth. It is a small business devoted to loving, careful stewardship and the production of quality goods. The mission of The Land of Milk & Honey is to combine traditional farming practices with a sustainable and environment-friendly approach to agriculture. It aims to provide customer satisfaction by being respectful and responsible over animals and the earth, and by producing quality products. To reach this objective, the farm intends to educate consumers and provide an alternative source for truly farm-fresh …

How Facebook Has Transformed Journalism, Sarah E. Rodriguez

Senior Honors Theses

Journalists use Facebook as a tool to distribute information to the public. Over recent years, Facebook with its updated features has changed the way journalists interact with readers and sources. Facebook Live and Instant Articles have increased reader engagement. Journalists use crowdsourcing and conversationally-toned posts to gather information and connect with readers on a personal level. The journalistic process has accelerated since the addition of Facebook because news is disseminated almost instantaneously. Yet the rise in fake news challenges journalists to effectively use Facebook as a platform for news dissemination. Facebook is using fact checkers and increased awareness to fight …

How Trump Won: Media And The Silent Majority In The 2016 Us Presidential Election, Joshua K. Miller

Senior Honors Theses

Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign ended in victory because of two powerful forces: enormous media advantage gained through sensationalism and a strong coalition made up of evangelicals, pragmatic conservatives, and the silent majority. The work of Neil Postman sheds light on the underlying cultural foundation of Trump’s media advantage. Parallels from the video game industry explain how intentional sensationalism played into Trump’s success in the primary process. Evangelicals and pragmatic conservatives joined Trump’s coalition in spite of his scandals, and Eric Hoffer’s work helps explain his appeal to the silent majority. Ultimately, the patterns of Trump’s victory yield significant learning …

Ticked Off: An Analysis Of The Inadequate Diagnosis And Treatment Of Lyme Disease, Virginia P. Yoder

Senior Honors Theses

Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne disease in the United States and has a high prevalence among people in the northeast. Lyme disease can be a debilitating illness if not diagnosed early, and can lead to long-term health problems for many patients. This thesis serves as a review of scientific literature on Lyme disease, with the prevalence, symptomology, the bacterial mechanism of infection, the diagnostic process, transmission, and treatment therapies. Further research and development could lead to better primary care for those suffering with Lyme disease.

Non-Capsular Virulence Factors Of Cryptococcus Neoformans, Kirk Nickish

Senior Honors Theses

Cryptococcus neoformans is an emerging pathogen that kills hundreds of thousands every year, especially in underdeveloped areas with little access to modern medical care. New treatments for the disease are needed to shorten treatment and decrease the side effects and costs associated with the drugs currently in use. Many C. neoformans genes have been identified that are necessary for full virulence in the host. Cir1, a regulatory protein associated with iron regulation, and Zip1, a surface zinc transporter, are both necessary for full virulence in the host. Anti-fungals targeted at these proteins or the proteins produced by other genes discussed …

A Review Of Ankylosing Spondylitis, Hannah L. Owen

Senior Honors Theses

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder that induces ankylosis of the spine (fusion of the vertebrae at their various joints) and inflammatory arthritis of peripheral joints among other symptoms. Overexpression of cytokines, the presence of genetic mutations not exclusive to the human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 region, and environmental factors all have large roles in the progressive development of AS. Although a definitive pathology continues to be sought after, researchers believe the adaptive immune system in AS patients attacks fibrocartilaginous entheses (supportive connective tissue between bone and attached structures like tendon, ligament, and fascia).

AS markedly reduces proper systemic …

English As A Global Commodity, Katarina Bouton

Senior Honors Theses

English is currently the language of diplomacy, higher education, business, science, the internet, and more. In order to understand what this means for the present state of English and its future, one must begin by looking at this language’s diachronic journey, followed by a synchronic picture of English today. In addition to statistics on English, this analysis will consider potential language competitors of Chinese, Arabic, Spanish, and Hindi, among others, in displacing the English language. Compared to these prospective challengers, English has broad roots in world history, lending to its depth and growing breadth; however, not only do the diachronic …

Student Engagement: The Effects Of Goals, Personality, Relations, And Society, Brianna Thomas, Tram Nguyen, Alli Washburn, Jake Dyess

Liberty University Research Week

Undergraduate

Applied

Relationship Between Social Media Use And Social Anxiety Among Emerging Adults, Denise L. Hughes

Liberty University Research Week

LUO Remote Online Presenter

Graduate

Theoretical Proposal

Colitis Induced Microvascular Leak Triggers Colonic Dysmotility, Sarah A. Robinson, Kevin T. Keating, Brandon G. Beck, Angela T. Battaglia, Annette S. Wilson, David G. Binion, Dr. Anthony J.M. Bauer

Liberty University Research Week

Graduate

Basic

Characteristics Of Community And Healthcare Associated Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, Michael Cargill

Liberty University Research Week

Undergraduate

Basic

Investigations Into The Influence Of Chronic Colitis On Colonic Adenocarcinoma Cell Growth "A Progress Report", Drew W. Charles, Andrew P. Worley, Michael R. Shurin, David G. Binion, Dr. Anthony J.M. Bauer

Liberty University Research Week

Graduate

Basic

A Case Study Of English-Speaking Native-Born German Public School Educators' Experiences With Immigrant Students, Victor Snow

Liberty University Research Week

LUO Remote Online Presenter

Graduate

Theoretical

Skin Cancer: Causes, Prevention, And Treatment, Lauren Queen

Senior Honors Theses

The purpose of this thesis is to analyze the causes, prevention, and treatment of skin cancer. Skin cancers are defined as either malignant or benign cells that typically arise from excessive exposure to UV radiation. Arguably, skin cancer is a type of cancer that can most easily be prevented; prevention of skin cancer is relatively simple, but often ignored. An important aspect in discussing the epidemiology of skin cancer is understanding the treatments that are available, as well as the prevention methods that can be implemented in every day practice. It is estimated that one in five Americans will develop …

Selecting An Alternative National Banking System Against Fractional Reserve Free Banking: The Greatest Modern Fraud?, Josiah J. Bardy

Senior Honors Theses

This paper serves as a compilation and analysis of different banking systems with an emphasis on fractional reserve free banking. Contemporary academic literature has debated fractional reserve banking with revisited scrutiny since the 2007–2009 financial crisis. The Austrian School, drawing conclusions from the Austrian business cycle theory, blames central banking for boom-bust economics. One proposed solution, fractional reserve free banking, eliminates the central bank’s control for a purer form of fractional reserve practice; however, this system may be inherently fraudulent and unethical. After completing an economic analysis of the western world’s banking system, this paper then explores an alternative solution.

Building A Brand For A New Generation, Joel Schlaudt

Senior Honors Theses

In a segment of the market as highly competitive as is the coffee industry, it can be difficult to forge a new brand strong enough to stand on its own and unique enough to stand above the competition. However, by choosing the millennial generation as a target audience and strategically constructing a creative strategy to reach them on an emotional level, a brand concept emerges with the ability to connect with consumers in a new way, transforming a daily necessity into an emotional experience unlike that offered by any other competitor. A Harry Potter-inspired brand built upon a delivery …

The Extent Of The Christian Approach In Converting Chinese Buddhists Encountering Physical Or Spiritual Difficulties In Life, Ann Ge

Masters Theses

This research paper presents the results of a quantitative and qualitative survey of Chinese Christians from Buddhist backgrounds, with a special focus on the Christian response to life trials, since, in Buddhism, any spiritual or physical adversity tends to be attributed to bad Karma from one’s past. The biggest aim of the research is to investigate more effective ways of leading Chinese people to Christ. The survey focuses mainly on three aspects of the respondents’ conversion stories: (1) their backgrounds, (2) their life changes after conversion, and (3) their inter-religious perspectives. In terms of background, most of the respondents had …

The Subprime Mortgage Collapse And Its Effects On The Economy, Joseph Krmpotich

Senior Honors Theses

The subprime mortgage crisis occurred due to a number of factors. Included in these factors were the issuance of subprime loans, the securitization of mortgages in the investment banking system, and the deregulation and ultimate failure of the shadow banking system. These causes were evident in both historical trends in the stock market as well as the macroeconomic data leading into the crash. They were perpetuated by investors, mortgage brokers, and banks taking on an abnormal amount of risk in the early 2000s for both psychological and behavioral reasons. These causes, while less than obvious at the time, have, with …

Embracing Uncertainty: Evaluating The Traditional Christian Approach To Transgenderism, Samuel C. Myers

Senior Honors Theses

The transgender movement has posed an ethical problem for societies around the world, and has forced Christian communities to reconsider traditional conceptions of gender, sex, and what makes someone a man or woman. The conventional approach that most evangelical Christian communities have adopted towards individuals who experience incongruence between their gender identity and physical sex characteristics has been to condemn cross-gender living. To equip Christians to consider the morality of transgenderism most effectively, this study begins by defining key terms, and provides a brief survey of some of the scientific and medical background issues surrounding this discussion. We then examine …

Multidisciplinary Approaches To The Treatment Of Bariatric Patients, Hannah Plasterer

Senior Honors Theses

Bariatric care focuses on the treatment and prevention of obesity as a chronic disease. It encompasses a wide range of obesity interventions from diet and exercise to weight loss surgery. Due to the continuing rise in obesity, all health care professionals will encounter bariatric patients, and thus, it is important for all health-care professionals to be aware of bariatric considerations. There are many negative implications to increased obesity that affect both physical and psychological health. This thesis will present the rise and rates of obesity in America today, along with the health risks and morbidity statistics for those who fall …

Creative Writing In Ministry Preparation: Narrativizing Formational Reflection, Benjamin Forrest, Marybeth Davis Baggett

Faculty Publications and Presentations

This paper is part proposal and part example. Our proposal, in essence, is a challenge to faculty to consider the value of incorporating various forms of creative writing into the ministry classroom. Incorporating creative writing can serve as a means for equipping students in their own spiritual transformation through the practice of narrativizing formational reflection. Our theoretical framework for using creative writing as a pedagogical tool is built on metacognition as classroom practice, which challenges students toward reflection and internalization. Following our proposal, we provide two tangible examples of how this proposal has been implemented in a seminary-level classroom. The …

The Soviet Disinformation Framing Of Pope Pius Xii, Naomi Centrella

Senior Honors Theses

One of the most effective tactics used to bring down one’s enemy is the ideological tool exemplified in Soviet and subsequent Russian disinformation. Disinformation has created an alternative way of looking at history that grew out of the Soviet Union’s actions in time of war. Soviet Disinformation was an effective war tactic used by Communist leaders to demonize those in a position of power who posed a threat to the Soviet regime. Joseph Stalin, the Communist leader of the Soviet Union in from 1924-1953, used disinformation to discredit such perceived enemies as the United States and the Roman Catholic Church. …

The Benefits Of Breastfeeding, Annagrace E. Anderson

Senior Honors Theses

Breast milk is the gold standard for infant nutrition. In the past, infant formula was promoted as equal or superior to breast milk. However, research has shown that breastfeeding is the superior form of infant nutrition except in rare circumstances. Breast milk provides for all of a newborn’s caloric needs and has the correct balance of nutrients to promote proper development. In addition, breast milk provides protection against illnesses, supports an infant’s immune system, and promotes life-long health for the newborn. Mothers also experience personal benefits by breastfeeding such as decreased cancer risks, bonding with their babies, and faster postpartum …

The Effect Of Barefoot Running Using Two Running Styles On Lower Extremity Joint Reaction Forces, Jamie M. Rogers

Senior Honors Theses

Running is a popular worldwide activity with many varying biomechanical techniques. Investigating potential differences in joint forces can be beneficial in determining if there is a superior biomechanical running pattern. Previous research compared barefoot and shod running, as well as the kinetic effects of varied running styles. The current study investigated the differences in internal joint reaction forces (JRF) at the hip, knee, and ankle joints during running with two different styles. Ten male and ten female participants who naturally run with a rearfoot strike pattern were included in this study. Each subject ran barefoot on an instrumented treadmill for …

Music Theory For Student Composers: A Course Designed For Engagement By Using Both A Flipped Classroom And Praxial Philosophy, Michelle Nagy

Masters Theses

In a world filled with innovation, technology and hands-on learning, the subject of music theory in the high school classroom has stayed relatively the same for the past fifty years for the student composer. By using the same tried-and-true methods, teachers are introducing concepts through lectures, while students reinforce concepts on their own during their homework assignments. Music examples are given on a regular basis and they are usually played on the piano by the professor or through recording. These methods, while effective, are not meeting the needs of today’s tech savvy and hands-on generation. While students are engaging with …

A Descriptive Case Study: Elementary Teachers’ Technology Acceptance And Classroom Integration, Jenny Whitt

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this descriptive case study was to examine elementary teachers’ technology acceptance in the context of a student-supported professional development model in an elementary school located in the southern part of the United States. In this study, technology was defined as Internet, iPad™, or laptop use in a classroom environment as an instructional and learning tool. Face-to-face open-ended interviews, a survey, and archival data in the form of observations collected yearly as part of program evaluation for professional development were all used to answer the research questions. Research questions focused on (a) the impact of a student-supported professional …

The Impact Of Blended Learning On Social Presence, Cognitive Presence, Teaching Presence, And Perceived Learning, Kyleigh Harrell

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The quantitative study examined how blended learning influences high school learners’ social presence, cognitive presence, teacher presence, and perceived learning in comparison to online instruction. The study answered the following research questions: (a) Do differences exist among the social presence, cognitive presence, and teaching presence of high school students enrolled in a blended course as compared to those enrolled in an online course? (b) Does a difference exist between perceived learning of high school students enrolled in a blended course as compared to that of those enrolled in an online course? The researcher used a causal-comparative research design and tested …

Effectiveness Of Blended Learning In A Rural Alternative Education School Setting, Robin Skelton

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this non-experimental, causal-comparative study was to examine the impact of a blended learning format on the academic achievement of at-risk 9 - 12 grade students in a rural Northeast Georgia school system. After obtaining IRB approval and district curriculum director and superintendent approval, data was obtained for evaluation. Student Georgia Criterion Referenced Competency Test (CRCT) eighth-grade scores from the content areas of math, language arts, science, and social studies were obtained and served to control for previous achievement. Students in the control group received instruction in the traditional face-to-face classroom with content instruction designed and provided by …