Digital Commons Network^™

Changing Opinions: The Supreme Court After Dobbs, Lora E. Judge

Honors Theses

No abstract provided.

Plant Vs. Animal Protein: Effect On Recovery, Performance, And Long-Term Health, Claudia Stachura

Honors Theses

Protein plays a fundamental role in muscle repair, growth, and athletic performance, which has led to increased interest in how different protein sources compare, particularly as plant-based diets become more common among athletes and physically active individuals. The debate surrounding plant-based versus animal-based protein sources primarily focuses on differences in protein quality, amino acid composition, digestibility, and potential long-term health implications. This paper examines current evidence comparing the effectiveness of plant and animal protein sources in supporting muscle protein synthesis (MPS), resistance training adaptations, recovery, and performance, while also considering broader health and environmental outcomes.

Protein supports muscle growth by …

Russian Cyber Disinformation In Mexico And Spain, Isabella Lafranchise

Honors Theses

Disinformation campaigns are being spread throughout Mexico and Spain by Russia, and these campaigns are among the tools most used by a foreign country to manipulate societies, weaken democracies, and deepen divisions. This research seeks to answer the question: How does Russia use cyber tools to spread disinformation in Mexico and Spain? To address this question, the paper will examine government reports and academic research of recent Russian influence operations. Variables will include the types of cyber tools used, platforms used, the narratives/themes being promoted, audiences targeted, and the political or social outcomes observed. Data will be analyzed using a …

A Study Of The Stratigraphic And Petrological Characteristics Of Section (10,323-10,325 Ft), Prevost 1- 11, Bay County, Michigan, Hajir Al Harthi

Honors Theses

This study presents a detailed petrological characterization of a short core section (10,323-10,325 ft) from the Prevost 1-11, Bay County, Michigan. This work is part of a broader carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) project to determine whether the Glenwood Formation could be an effective confining unit (CU) for carbon dioxide (CO2) injection in the underlying St. Peter Sandstone. The methods used to collect petrological data include standard core description, Xray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin section microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) including backscattered electron (BSE), energydispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and secondary electron (SE) modes. These …

The Role Of Sustainability In Family And Consumer Science Curricula, Emily Hill

Honors Theses

As climate change intensifies and global food systems face growing environmental pressures, there is an increasing need to prepare younger generations to respond to these challenges. Sustainability education is increasingly recognized as essential for helping students understand the connection between human actions, environmental resilience, and their overall well-being. This form of education already has a foundation in the Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) curriculum. This study examines the effects of integrating sustainability lessons into secondary Family and Consumer Sciences food and nutrition courses in a rural Michigan high school. It was hypothesized that if students participate in sustainability presentations and …

Psychological Variables That Best Predict Health Related Behaviors In College Students, Arianna Gamaggio

Honors Theses

The present study examined which psychological factors best predicted health behaviors in college students. The psychological factors that were addressed included anxiety, depression, grit, and psychological flexibility. The health behaviors were examined by using a composite variable that included sleep, diet, and exercise. A total of 265 students participated in the study, but only 174 (μ age = 21) met the criteria for inclusion. Participants completed validated self-report measures such as the GAD- 7 (anxiety), PHQ-9 (depression), Short Grit Scale, Psy-Flex-6 (psychological flexibility), as well as health behavior assessments that measured eating behaviors, sleeping, and exercise habits. Correlational analyses indicated …

Characteristics Of Unintentional Injuries In Young Children In Low Socioeconomic Status Families, Annabelle Pederson

Honors Theses

Unintentional injuries are the leading cause of death among young children in the United States, with low-income families being at higher risk. This study examined seven weeks of prospective injury data from 89 caregivers of preschool-aged children enrolled in a Head Start program participating in a randomized controlled trial of a modified home safety intervention. Caregivers completed weekly interviews reporting the injury type, location, severity, pain, and caregiver in charge. Slips, trips, and falls were the most common injuries that occurred, with most occurring in the primary caregiver’s home. Mothers were the supervising adults in over half of the incidents. …

A Harmonious Equation: How To Facilitate The Interdisciplinary Nature Of The Arts In A High School Math Classroom, Myah Medendorp

Honors Theses

The education system is constantly evolving and advancing, and the teaching methods should advance along with it. Musical involvement has long been cited as having a positive effect on mathematical proficiency and being an easy way to boost mathematical performance but is most often used in an elementary school setting and the early learning years. Are there ways to use this scientific relationship to boost performance and engagement in a secondary school environment?

This literature review functionalization takes a closer look at this relationship and how it can be implemented effectively in a high school math classroom beyond the young …

Redefining Resistance: Las Madres De La Plaza De Mayo, Echoes Of Trauma And Memory In Argentina, Elizabeth J. Kaye

Honors Theses

Argentina's "Dirty War" (1976–1983) stands as one of the darkest and most painful periods in the nation’s history. During these years, the military dictatorship, known as the "Proceso de Reorganización Nacional," implemented a systematic campaign of state terrorism, targeting suspected political protesters, activists, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens. Widespread kidnappings, illegal detentions, and forced disappearances became routine, with an estimated 30,000 people vanishing without a trace. Families were left in despair, searching for answers that the government refused to provide. In response, a group of determined mothers, known as “Las Madres de la Plaza de Mayo”, formed a powerful movement demanding …

Emphasis On The External: Deceptive Beauty In Lady Audley’S Secret And The Picture Of Dorian Gray, Arden Cravy

Honors Theses

The novels Lady Audley’s Secret by Mary Elizabeth Braddon and The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde both present major themes of beauty, authenticity, and morality while maintaining their didacticism. This thesis comes as a surprise due to the beliefs and intentions of the authors, both of whom claim other motivations than the betterment of their readers. The parallels between these narratives ascribe to the fallible Victorian perspectives regarding external appearance and internal motivations. The danger of assumed authenticity becomes apparent in these authors’ works as they grapple with the realities of human nature. Wilde and Braddon each depict …

Emmett Deur - Senior Recital, Emmett Deur

Honors Theses

As a culmination of three and a half years of study in the Irving S. Gilmore School of music, I, Emmett Deur, have put together a senior recital, performing a variety of works on the euphonium. My studies have included experiences within some of Western Michigan University’s top ensembles, including the Western Michigan University Wind Symphony, the University Symphony Orchestra, and the Western Brass Quintet’s Brass for the Holidays Ensemble. In addition to these ensemble experiences, my studies included regular one-on-one applied lessons with applied Tuba/Euphonium faculty members. With a year of lessons with former Tuba/Euphonium instructor, Professor Chance Trottman-Huiet, …

Investigating The Mechanisms By Which Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis Contributes To The Autoimmune Response In Multiple Sclerosis, Abigail Houtrouw

Honors Theses

This literature review explores the multifaceted relationship between gut microbiome (GM) dysbiosis and multiple sclerosis (MS), highlighting key themes that advance understanding of disease pathogenesis and therapeutic potential for treatments targeting the gut. The review underscores the immune system dysregulation in MS, emphasizing the roles of T cells, B cells, and microglia in neuroinflammation and demyelination. Historically, MS pathogenesis was thought to be driven mainly by T-cell dysregulation, but current research highlights the additional roles of B-cells and microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS). Additionally, this literature review identifies GM alterations and dysbiosis as critical …

From Crisis To Commitment: How Covid-19 Reshaped Motivation In Small Business Organizational Culture, Boone G. Depenbrock

Honors Theses

This study examines how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped employee motivation and organizational culture in small businesses and explores the role of job characteristics in that process. Using an online survey administered to small business employees and owners, respondents reported their experiences before, during, and after the pandemic across validated measures of motivation, organizational commitment, job satisfaction, goal internalization, turnover intentions, and core job design factors. After data cleaning, 21 responses were analyzed. Results showed statistically significant increases in organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and goal internalization after COVID-19, along with a decrease in turnover intentions. Internal work motivation showed a small, …

Beyond The Price Tag: Unveiling The Hidden Impacts Of Tariffs On Businesses And Consumer Behavior, Jacob D. Haas

Honors Theses

In an era marked by global trade disruptions and rising protectionist policies, firms must navigate the complex interaction between tariffs, supply chain strategy, pricing decisions, and marketing communication. This thesis investigates how three multinational corporations Walmart, Nike, and Apple responded strategically to shifting tariff environments and trade restrictions between 2018 and 2025. Drawing on primary data from corporate 10-K filings and secondary analyses from recent economic and management literature, the study examines how each firm’s decisions regarding sourcing diversification, cost management, and consumer engagement contributed to long-term resilience.

Findings reveal that companies integrating supply chain adaptability with coherent pricing and …

Ticking Away: A Study On How Multiple Sclerosis Patients In The Us And Australia Navigate Their Day, Ella M. Stahl

Honors Theses

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that damages the nervous system. Individuals diagnosed with MS experience a wide variety of symptoms, the most common being fatigue and numbness in the hands and feet. This disease affects close to three million people worldwide. Current research shows that individuals with chronic conditions spend more time managing their medical issues, therefore impacting their quality of life. This study compares time use of Multiple Sclerosis patients in the US and Australia. The central investigative question is: what are the differences and similarities in time use of those diagnosed with MS in the United …

Beyond Traditional Pathways: Addressing Challenges Facing Adult Learners, Katherine L. Harden

Honors Theses

Successful institutions of higher education are continually seeking methods to improve their schools and keep pace with the changing demands of the academic sphere and current job market. With a potential enrollment cliff arising, it is particularly necessary for universities and colleges to find ways to overcome the challenges associated with a possible declining number of traditional—-aged students participating in higher education. A strategically clear solution is to explore the rapidly growing population of adult learners.

This paper will examine the complex motivations, challenges, educational experiences, and perseverance displayed by these students as they work to succeed from admission to …

Relationships Among Institutional Betrayal, Adverse Healthcare Experiences, And College Student Health, Saba Mustafa

Honors Theses

Institutional betrayal is defined as the trauma experienced by an individual who feels that their trust in the ability of an institution to keep the individual safe is broken. Healthcare-related institutional betrayal has primarily been explored among working adults, individuals with chronic conditions, and individuals from racially diverse backgrounds. However, healthcare-related institutional betrayal has seldom been explored in college student samples, who may have different healthcare needs compared to other patient populations. The present study explored college students’ experiences with institutional betrayal due to negative healthcare experiences. Survey data were gathered from 157 college students. Measures included healthcare provider trust, …

Hand Injuries In Boulderers Across Various Settings, Experience And Skill Levels., Cole E. Olinger

Honors Theses

Survey-based research was performed to identify risk factors and prevention tactics for finger injuries in boulderers. An IRB-approved survey was distributed and taken by 228 respondents, whose data was analyzed. Risk factors for finger injury were found to include years of experience and skill level. Results indicated stronger, more experienced boulderers were more likely to report history of finger injury than weaker, less experienced boulderers. Findings suggest boulderers may avoid injury by manipulating their grip type in specific ways.

Near-Infrared-Spectroscopy-Derived Oxygen Desaturation Rates During Post-Exercise Circulatory Occlusion As Predictors Of Cardiorespiratory Fitness Markers, Carstell Lee

Honors Theses

Cardiorespiratory fitness, measured as maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max) is a critical predictor of all-cause mortality and overall cardiovascular health. Metabolic carts are the current gold standard for evaluation of VO₂max, but are inaccessible to most facilities and individuals, and are expensive ($20,000+). Near-Infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has emerged as an accessible and affordable ($5,000-$10,000) alternative for evaluating skeletal muscle oxygenation kinetics and mitochondrial oxidative capacity. However, there is limited research in examining whether NIRS-derived oxygen desaturation rates can be a predictor of cardiorespiratory fitness markers (such as VO₂max and peak power output [PPO]), and whether these measurements show a superior predictive …

Investigating The Cardiovascular And Autonomic Responses To Energy Drink Consumption: The Role Of Energy And Calorie Content, Sophia Schmidt

Honors Theses

Energy drinks (EDs) are among the most consumed functional beverages, often marketed to enhance focus, alertness, and physical performance. Despite their popularity, the combined cardiovascular and autonomic effects of caffeine and sugar during exercise remain poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to examine the acute cardiovascular, metabolic, and autonomic responses to sugar-sweetened (ED-S), non-nutritive sweetened (ED-NNS), and placebo beverages during submaximal cycling in healthy young males.

Nine male participants (age 22.2 ± 2.4 yrs; BMI 26.2 ± 2.9 kg/m²) completed three experimental visits in a randomized, repeated-measures design. Each visit involved ingestion of one drink (ED-S, ED-NNS, or …

Neural Rrp6 Depletion Drives Circrna Accumulation And Motor Impairment In Drosophila Melanogaster Neurons, Joseph Serio

Honors Theses

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of ubiquitous eukaryotic RNAs created by back splicing. These noncoding RNAs can modulate gene expression and are implicated in aging and neurodegenerative diseases. To limit the contribution of circRNAs to aging and pathobiology, it is essential to understand how turnover of these molecules is regulated, as it is not clear which enzymes are chiefly responsible for degrading circRNAs in neurons. This study evaluates the roles of ribonucleases potentially involved in neural circRNA turnover using the model fly Drosophila melanogaster. A mifepristone-activated GAL4/UAS GeneSwitch expressed RNAi transgenes and inactivated the ribonucleases. Flies were evaluated on …

Nursing Students’ Attitudes Regarding Technical Standards For Entrance Into A Bachelor Of Science In Nursing Program, Jordyn Cook

Honors Theses

Admission into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program requires students to meet specific criteria including a non-negotiable set of technical standards. Technical standards encompass physical abilities including twisting, bending, and handling objects of varying weights (Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science, n.d.). While physical capabilities may hold significance in bedside nursing, the American Nurses Association does not establish specific physical qualifications (American Nurses Association, 2010). Due to admission criteria and technical standards, individuals with disabilities are rarely found among career nurses and nursing students (Leslie & Miller, 2020).

This study aims to determine nursing students’ attitudes towards …

Identifying Barriers For Community Pharmacies As Vaccines For Children (Vfc) Providers In Rural Alabama: Opportunities For Solutions, Myra Bajwa

Honors Theses

Significant Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination disparities exist between rural and urban areas in the US. A primary contributor is low access to preventive care in rural areas. Among the most promising strategies to overcome this is increasing access through offering HPV vaccination in non-traditional, convenient health settings such as pharmacies. In rural areas, community pharmacies are trusted, convenient pillars of the community. In Alabama, community pharmacies are eligible for enrollment in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, a federally-funded program that provides free vaccines to children and adolescents under 18 years old who are uninsured, underinsured, American Indian, or Alaska …

Are People More Likely To See Actions As Intentional When They Are Forced To Make Their Decisions Quickly? A Replication And Extension Of Rosset (2008), Andrew Elmore

Honors Theses

Rosset (2008) reported evidence of an intentionality bias, which is a key prediction of a model of human cognition that suggests that people learn to override intentional attributions of behavior, a dual-process model of intention attribution. A model that hypothesizes that when people are deprived of the time to develop deliberate thought processes, their default explanation for actions is intentional, and that this default attribution has to be consciously overridden. Rosset’s main method of testing this was by providing test sentences to participants and placing them into two scenarios where they had different levels of time to process the sentences. …

The Impacts Of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) On Ethics And Ethical Gaps In Accounting, Isaac Hendren

Honors Theses

This study examines the ethical impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the accounting industry in Tennessee by identifying how national trends in AI adoption potentially surpass the ethical oversights established by the regulatory bodies, such as the AICPA, and relating these trends to Tennessee. A Qualtrics survey was distributed to accounting professionals across both firms and corporations across Tennessee, resulting in 64 responses. Results indicate that AI adoption is in its early stages and that significant awareness gaps remain regarding transparency and bias. As AI becomes more widely adopted, these ethical gaps could create risks that harm stakeholders. The study …

False Narratives And Fierce Hope: Recentering Appalachian Rhetorics Of Place And Health, Sarah G. Cardwell

Honors Theses

This research seeks to analyze the rhetorical dimensions of how health is discussed in Appalachia, focusing specifically on Letcher County, Kentucky. In Letcher County, as in many Appalachian communities, rhetorics of healthcare and poverty are inextricably linked, largely due to media portrayals. One of the most impactful of these media portrayals is the 1964 CBS special entitled Christmas in Appalachia. In this special, host Charles Kuralt visits Letcher County and makes a pointed effort to speak to families who are living in poverty, asking them questions about their daily lives and if they “want better” for their children than their …

The Impact Of Colonization On The Political Development Of Colonized Nations Post-Independence: The French Colonization Of Lebanon, Mariam Faleh

Honors Theses

Colonization is characterized in literature through the lens of the colonizer, defined primarily by its successes. From the discovery of the New World by Columbus in 1492 to the establishment of the United States of America by the EU, spread of democracy across the globe, and its association with the idea of globalization, colonization is seen as the pioneer of the modern world. While colonization has played a large role in the development of the world as we know it, paving the way for the success of many independent nations, it has also simultaneously hindered the development of many. This …

Influence Of Depressive Symptomatology On Vocal Production, Olivia Taylor

Honors Theses

Language has been widely recognized as a crucial form of social connection, providing both contextual and semantic information, including intonation, pitch, rate of speech, and pauses. As mental health conditions begin to rise while mental health providers begin to decrease, research in psychology has focused on investigating other factors that may aid in the diagnosis of mental health disorders. Research has indicated that physiological factors, including vocal production, may highlight specific shifts in speech patterns or vocal characteristics. Limited research has been conducted to investigate the possible implications for the emerging adult population, despite the group obtaining the highest prevalence …

Transcription Factors And Regulatory Proteins In The Control Of Eukaryotic Gene Expression, Maya M. Minkara

Honors Theses

Transcription factors (TFs) function as precision switches that integrate signaling inputs, chromatin state, and protein homeostasis to control gene expression. This thesis unites three interconnected research themes: (1) mechanistic studies of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in regulating eukaryotic TFs, focusing on polymerase-associated Factor 1 (Paf1) and TATA-box binding protein-associated factor 2 (Taf2); (2) identification of biomarker genes within odor-related TF networks; and (3) integration of published undergraduate research linking molecular regulation, bioinformatics, and synthetic biology. These themes are purposefully structured so that mechanistic insight into TF control sets up network-level discovery and, in turn, motivates applied and translational directions. In …

“If He Be Mr.Hyde…I Shall Be Mr.Seek”: Crime, Surveillance, And Narrative Structure In The Strange Case Of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde, Haley N. Durrett

Honors Theses

This research seeks to situate Robert Louis Stevenson's novella, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde into the historical context of the time period using 19th century criminal-typing, policing structures, and the genre of detective fiction. Focusing on the representation of the criminal, Edward Hyde, the layout of the detective novel, and narrative structure, the novel creates an implicit desire for the police, that is not fulfilled throughout the novel's unraveling.