Digital Commons Network^™

Title: Implementing And Evaluating A Farmer's Market Incentive And Nutrition Education Program For Families With Children, Raven Barleston, Kendra Oonorasak, Tammy Stephenson, Makenzie Barr

Posters-at-the-Capitol

1 in 6 children face food insecurity and experience limited access to healthy foods in Kentucky. The Power of Produce (POP) Club is a farmer’s market incentive and nutrition education program for families with children aged between 3 and 14. This project is a 10-week pilot study in Lexington, Kentucky and it aims to improve fruit and vegetable consumption by engaging children in the local food system through educational activities, interactions with farmers, and exposure to new local fruits and vegetables through taste-testing. Every week, each child engaging in POP Club activities received a $2 farmer’s market voucher that can …

Addressing Pfas Contamination In Blood Bank Supplies With Hydrogel Nanocomposite Sorbents, Anicah Lynn Smith, E. Molly Frazar, J. Zach Hilt

Posters-at-the-Capitol

Environmental pollutants continue to be a threat to global human health. Persistent contaminants, such as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have been linked to a multitude of adverse health effects such as cancerous tumors, increased blood cholesterol levels and liver damage. The dominant source of exposure to PFAS is through contaminated drinking water, and accumulation has been found to occur significantly in human blood serum. Thus, high-risk groups who are receiving frequent blood transfusions are exposed to these harmful chemicals in a dual fashion, which could prove detrimental. Traditional sorbents that display an affinity for PFAS include powdered activated carbon and clay. …

Physiological Signal Analysis For Emotion Estimation Of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Janet Pulgares Soriano, Karla Conn Welch Phd

Posters-at-the-Capitol

The diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children is based on human observations by a clinician. The medical evaluation assesses deficits in social communication, social interaction, and restricted, repetitive behaviors. Robotic technology can assist in quantitatively measuring the observations to be used as a future tool for autism diagnosis and intervention. The project explores this technology to produce robotic partners that can adapt to the needs of the ASD population. This way, such robots could serve as instructors or learning peers. A friendly, partner robot, specifically designed for children with ASD could be used to investigate the effect of …

Breadth Of Vaccinated Cancer Patient Humoral Response To Sars-Cov-2 Spike Protein And Rbd Variants, Julia Corman, Joey Breckenridge Jr., Adrienne M. Bushau-Sprinkle, Krystal T. Hamorsky, Joshua L. Fuqua

Posters-at-the-Capitol

SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 of which several variants have emerged, such as the B.1.351 SARS-CoV-2 variant. The Receptor Binding Domain (RBD), located within the Spike protein is an immunogenic epitope for potent neutralizing antibodies. Current mRNA vaccines encode for the Spike protein, allowing the body to build antigen-specific antibodies. Assays measuring protective antibodies are essential to manage the COVID-19 pandemic and can be used as a platform for variant screening. RBD-foldon 2.2 is a novel antigen produced by fusing RBD with the trimerization domain Fibritin from Bacteriophage T4. Its amino acid sequence is based on the original …

The Effect Of A Vegetation Buffer On Sound Levels, Madison Cicha

Posters-at-the-Capitol

Noise pollution is a growing concern in the environmental health community. Unlike other common exposures, such as air and water pollution, noise is uniquely difficult for an individual to protect themselves from. Studies have shown multiple adverse health outcomes resulting from exposure to noise pollution, including hearing impairment, negative social behavior and annoyance, sleep disturbance, along with a strong association between noise pollution and high cardiovascular risk. It is important, then, to look for solutions to this exposure. This study is designed to assess the effects of a tree barrier in reducing traffic noise. Noise monitoring was conducted at Saint …

Wastewater-Based Estimation Of Substances Discharged At The Rest Areas Along The State Highways In Kentucky, Katherine E. Gray, Eugene Shin, Tyler Whitt, Andrew Windhorst, Houston Hampton, Chris Delcher, Bikram Subedi

Posters-at-the-Capitol

The availability of licit and illicit stimulants and its adverse consequences on public health has emerged as a major drug threat to communities in the United States. Despite several drug-involved traffic incidents along the interstate highways, this report represents the first comprehensive and quantitative report of drugs discharged at the rest areas along the interstate highways. In this National Institute of Justice-funded study, the amount of several discharged drugs focusing on stimulants but also including opioids and prescription antipsychotics are being measured in raw wastewater collected from five rest areas and a truck servicing facility using a state-of-the-art mass …

Generation Onlyfans: The Internalization Of Objectification In Young Adults, Grace Sinclair, D. Gage Jordan

Posters-at-the-Capitol

The term raunch culture refers to recent changes in Western culture that promotes overtly sexual representations of women, wherein women are objectified, objectify one another, and are encouraged to objectify themselves. With the growth of the internet and social media, raunch culture has expanded rapidly. This hypersexualized culture provides people opportunities to engage in positive social comparison, but perhaps more insidiously, negative social comparison. Although some women perceive aspects of raunch culture as empowering, it is possible that this construct could relate to the phenomenology of depression in women. This study examined the various relationships between raunch culture, depression, social …

2022-01-07, Board Of Regents, Murray State University

Board of Regents Meeting Minutes

No abstract provided.

A Proliferation Of Images: Trends, Obstacles, And Opportunities For Visual Literacy, Dana Thompson

Faculty & Staff Research and Creative Activity

Visual literacy equips learners with the dispositions to critically create, analyse, use, and share visual information. As one component of a discerning, ethical citizenry, visual literacy has become more essential in a rapidly evolving information ecosystem. Against this backdrop, the current Association of College and Research Libraries Visual Literacy Task Force conducted qualitative research from 2019 to 2021, interviewing visual literacy and information literacy experts to identify emergent trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping visual literacy in the twenty-first century. The findings from this study broaden current understandings of visual literacy and empower learners, educators, and practitioners to critically create, share, …

Rural And Regional Arts Organizations, Elise Lael Kieffer

Faculty & Staff Research and Creative Activity

This chapter presents the arts operating in two specific regions. Where arts organizations are located informs the political climate in which they work, their methods, and their constituency. The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) was founded by an act of congress in 1965 and is tasked with five key goals. These goals include increasing economic opportunities within the region, improving workforce readiness, developing and maintaining critical infrastructure, utilizing and leveraging natural and cultural assets within the region, and developing leadership and community capacity (ARC, 2019). This area is defined by persistent poverty and reduced economic opportunity. Local issues are, in fact, …

Osha, Ada, And Other Government Mandates, Elise Lael Kieffer

Faculty & Staff Research and Creative Activity

In chapter fourteen the exploration is focused on governmental mandates, laws, rules and regulations. In contrast, policies and procedures within the organization are also covered. The discussion then centers on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), how the administration works, how one must and can follow OSHA mandates, and how penalties can be assessed if OSHA rules are not followed. Finally, the chapter concludes with a lengthy discussion of the physical requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, who must comply, and how one can do so.

The Barriers Of Non-Traditional Students In Higher Education, Rachel Evitts, Rachel Evitts

Integrated Studies

Abstract

Non-traditional college students face many barriers in higher education. Non-traditional student enrollment is on the increase but a significant number of these students never make it to graduation day. Financial struggles, family obligations, juggling careers, self-confidence, and the covid-19 pandemic pose as the greatest barriers to success for these students. Research surrounding these problems and current solutions already in place have increased in recent decades but little has helped to improve graduation rates. Last dollar scholarships, increases in grants, and resources for low income students are being utilized at post-secondary institutions all over the United States but need to …

Racism In The Classroom: Why Is It Occurring? What Is Being Done?, Heather Mitchell, Heather Mitchell

Integrated Studies

Racism has been an issue that has been in the United States for many of years. Since the 1800’s history has taken place in forms of the Civil Rights Era, The Reconstruction Era, and milestones have been made with influential people such as Ruby Bridges, Rosa Parks, Septima Clark. From the fight for Civil Rights to the Montgomery Bus Boycott, The Brown vs Board of Education case and the denigration of race we have come such a long way. The research for this paper examines the cases and the people who are listed above as well as looking at the …

Mexican Drug Cartels And Their Effects On Society, Michael Alan Broadway

Integrated Studies

This paper addresses the rapidly growing threat of Mexican Drug Cartels that are operating globally. It covers the history of illicit goods and services and how drug cartels are the latest to take control of these practices. Nine different Mexican Drug Cartels are covered in depth as well as the three major drugs of distribution in today’s market. The many threats that Mexican Drug Cartels bring to the Mexican and U.S. population are covered and many horrific examples are given to add context to the extent of the threat proposed by cartels. The numerous illicit businesses cartels have diversified into, …

Americas Supply Chain: Unforcasted Commerce Challenges Or Leadership Failure, Jon Tobias

Integrated Studies

The current supply chain disruptions are affecting commerce in some manner which leads to scarcities of products and labor globally. The research will show that supply chain issues are directly related to commerce and leadership which plays an important role in our economy. Supply chain operations are defined, and the different levels of supply chain activities are explained. Possible points of failure within the system as well as probable causes leading to empty shelves and unavailable products is explained in detail. The research describes how massive labor shortages, high petroleum prices, and shortages of essential sub-components has led to this …

Safety In Combat Sports: Is Boxing Safer?, Aaron Baum

Integrated Studies

Combat sports are widely regarded as one of the most dangerous sports or activities an athlete can participate in. Leading the way in terms of popularity is the sport of boxing and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). The resounding consensus among combat sports fans and athletes is that the sport of boxing is the safest option, but with the more recent discovery of Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and the brain damage that occurs because of repeated strikes to the head, it appears that boxing is the most dangerous combat sport. The reason for my research project is to see what sport …

Developing Cultural Competency As A Counselor, John Arnold

Integrated Studies

For many people counseling is a terrifying experience. Just the thought of sharing your deepest fears or most private problems can be overwhelming. We can all agree that counseling is a necessary option for people in our society. What I have researched is the importance that we focus on the quality of this service. Unfortunately, many people have had bad experiences with counselors that prevent them from getting the help they need. Some of these bad experiences could have been potentially avoided if the counselors were more culturally competent. Cultural competency is essential for counselors who want to be effective …

Psychology And Social Media, Allyson Wrigley-Carter

Integrated Studies

Social media is extremely successful in today’s world. This can be explained using psychology. This paper outlines three perspectives of social media use and the various psychological concepts that explain them: the Poster, the Viewer, and the Connector. The Poster creates and uploads content to social media in hopes of the feedback given by those who see it. This can lead to addiction and provides social approval. Many Posters also engage in a false identity to some extent. The Viewer utilizes social media for many reasons, all of which fall under four categories: education, inspiration, entertainment, and socialization. They are …

Covid-19’S Impact On Healthcare, Austin Johnson

Integrated Studies

Abstract

Covid-19 is a highly infectious virus that has drastically impacted healthcare systems across the world. This virus had such a unique makeup that modern-day medicine did not have an answer for it and the impact it’d have on the population as it rapidly swept across the planet. Due to the severity of this virus, effects can be seen regarding supply shortages, healthcare staff shortages, and everyday PPE requirements. Even by looking past the humanitarian effects caused by Covid-19, the financial burden on the healthcare systems cannot be ignored. Although this pandemic is generally viewed as a negative part of …

When In Doubt, Go To The Library, Phyllis Albright

Integrated Studies

Abstract

This paper is about the history of the public library system from the establishment of the first free modern public library, and how the face of the public library system has changed dramatically over the years. What was once just a place to peruse book titles and pick up the latest new release, has turned into a safe, open space to hold meetings, workshops, arts and crafts activities, programs on many subjects, and even research your genealogy. It is a place where patrons can come to and find help with a wide variety of subjects.

The Impact Of Domestic Violence On Mental Health, Candida Likens

Integrated Studies

Abstract

This research paper examines the issues of domestic violence on mental health. The paper will provide helpful information for a caseworker to follow as a guideline and structure for understanding and addressing domestic violence issues. There are numerous types of domestic violence, and this is a general list. Each area that is identified provides a description of the violence, as well as the issues that can be raised due to domestic violence. In addition to background, it also has numerous factors that influence how people make decisions, resources for the victim, and legal protections.

The Opioid Crisis, Sarah Mobley

Integrated Studies

The purpose of this report is to explore the increase of people who have become addicted to opioids after prescribed the narcotic by a doctor or obtaining them illegally. Opioid addiction has resulted in many people in the United States and abroad becoming dependent on opioids for basic daily activities. Medical experts have found multiple solutions to stop addiction caused by doctors and other healthcare professionals who can prescribe medications. However, recent data shows that opioid addiction is still on the rise. This report includes how the crisis began, the different methods recommended to slow the crisis and current statistics …

Mental Health In The African American Community, Nora Parker

Integrated Studies

Abstract

From generations before, people in the African American community did not discuss mental health and issues that came along with it. A lot of it was because it was not understood. On the other hand, the African American Community didn’t want to talk about it. Having a mental health illness was considered a curse. Instead of dealing with the issues, people elected to sweep it under the rug, ignore it, or just not deal with it at all. In the past, it was the lack of awareness, ignoring the problem, dealing with the issues the best way they knew …

The Benefits Of Youth Sports, Nate Chambers, Nate Chambers

Integrated Studies

The purpose of this paper is to determine and identify the many benefits that can be earned through participation in youth sports. Many parents and guardians enroll their children in youth sports programs as a way to introduce them to new hobbies and activities to pass the time in their youthful years, but there are many added benefits other than simply enjoying sports as a pastime. Youth sports can provide opportunities for children to better themselves in many different avenues of life, including socially, physically and mentally, and allow them to find their role in society at an early age. …

Clearing Up The Confusion Surrounding Bipolar Disorder, Stacey Williams

Integrated Studies

Abstract

This paper aims to clear up the confusion the surrounds bipolar disorder. Extensive research examines the societal misconceptions about bipolar disorder. The research will show how celebrity impact, media perception, and self-stigmatization all contribute to the confusion of what it means to have bipolar disorder. After identifying the misconceptions, this research will identify clinical definitions of bipolar disorder along with existing comorbidities with other mental illnesses such as borderline personality disorder, depression, ADHD, and anxiety disorder. The disease can be under or over diagnosed when these comorbidities are not taken into account during a patient assessment. Bipolar disorder is …

Borderline Personality Disorder, Amanda Muncher

Integrated Studies

Borderline Personality Disorder, also called BPD, is a mental illness that affects more than three million people in the world each year. The symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder are distorted self-image, feelings of isolation, boredom, and emptiness, mood swings that sometimes can be severe and sudden, feelings of anxiety, loss of interest in routine activities, suicidal thoughts, and delusion. The symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder make life very hard to live on a daily basis.

In this thesis, I will tell the history of Borderline Personality Disorder, explain the four subtypes of Borderline Personality Disorder, explain the criteria to be …

Analysis Of Public Relations, Andrea Watson

Integrated Studies

The public relations profession is a person’s ability to communicate to various publics on behalf of a person, organization, or a place of business to build positive relationships and create awareness of a brand. The field of public relations is important in today’s society. PR requires expertise in communication in order to maintain and help meet an entities’ mission, vision, and goals. Through a close examination of communication skills, types of public relations, the effectiveness of communication in public relations, PR ethics, and the future of PR, we analyze the communicative profession of public relations.

Mental Health: The Psychological Impact On Collegiate Student-Athletes, Faith Bostick

Integrated Studies

Mental health is a prevalent issue that regular students and especially student-athletes struggle with. Many college-athletes deal with many different obligations that cause an increase in stress. The paper will discuss the common mental health disorders that a large percentage of college students struggle with throughout their college experiences. Moreover, the paper will discuss how athlete’s deal with psychological disorders due to different factors such as dealing with injuries, ending of sports careers, and pressure from sports performances, which are stressors that cause student athletes to deal with high depression levels. In addition, Elaborate on how injuries are a prevalent …

The Development Of Osha, Lauren Reid

Integrated Studies

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, also known as OSHA, has been protecting workers safety and health since 1970. This allowed federal protection of workers safety and health rights. For many years, federal protection of workers safety was nonexistent. President Richard Nixon signed the Occupational Safety and Health act in 1970 after President Lydon Johnson’s failed attempt of establishing the act three years prior. It was a very long and difficult process for the OSHA act to come to order. OSHA has protected workers in a variety of industries such as, construction, manufacturing, and general industry. I will be discussing …

Covid-19'S Effect On Education, Madison K. Puckett, Madison Korte Puckett

Integrated Studies

The purpose for this paper is to inform the reader of what the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic has on students and teachers along with finding solutions. The biggest concern during this time is if students are meeting the required materials while in school. Many students are falling behind and there needs to be a solution on how to solve this problem. Covid has caused many problems in everyone’s life but, especially in the lives of students. Teachers are struggling to find solutions due to limitations of Nontraditional Instruction and virtual classrooms. Parents and teachers can team up to help …