Digital Commons Network^™

Helmet Design Advancements Impacting Head Injuries In The Nfl, Lucas Slear, Cole Swiader, Jackson Katona, Ryan Valliere

Liberty University Research Week

This research study will investigate how helmet designs in the National Football League have changed in response to concussion concerns and player safety. Development of soft-shell helmet technology (Guardian Caps) and advancements in the padding inside of NFL helmets have caused concussion numbers to decrease and have caused head injuries to be less severe in the NFL over the last 25 years. The severity of these head injuries can be seen in recovery time for NFL players after sustaining a concussion. Our study aims to address the question: “How have advancements helmet design and engineering in the NFL impacted the …

The Cost Of Cargo Preference: How Shipping Requirements Hinder Food Aid Efficiency, Grace Pattara

Liberty University Research Week

No abstract provided.

Evaluation Of Convective Heat Transfer Of An Enclosed Lithium-Ion Cylindrical Cell In Turbulent Channel Flow, Benjamin Truxel

Liberty University Research Week

No abstract provided.

From Exposure To Detection: Health System Barriers To Diagnosing Asbestos-Related Diseases In Developing Countries, Matthew-Riece Castanares, Luke Montgomery

Liberty University Research Week

No abstract provided.

Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Gene Mutation, Callie Messick, Brooke Newman, Grace Becraft, Kenai Alexander

Liberty University Research Week

Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Gene Mutation Forty to fifty percent of the population have a methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphism (CDC, 2014). The MTHFR gene encodes an enzyme that metabolizes folate, an essential substance needed for DNA methylation. Specific blood testing identifying MTHFR genetic polymorphisms is the most accurate for mutation detection. MTHFR has a wide range of involvement in our health including pregnancy and fertility, cardiovascular health, and mental health. Folate deficiency is linked with in-utero complications like congenital heart defects, neural tube defects, cleft lip, cleft palate, multiple psychiatric diseases, and cancer (Vidmar et al., 2020). Folic acid is maintained at …

Energy Drinks: Outcome In Undergraduate College Students, Vaden Sanders

Liberty University Research Week

Background: Energy drinks (ED) are beverages designed to enhance alertness and performance (Chu et al., 2022). They are popular among university students for use in academics and for social reasons, yet the concentration of caffeine and sugar in EDs pose significant health risks. EDs are popular globally and it is a multibillion-dollar industry (Alsunni, 2015). Methods: A literature review of 27 articles fitting the inclusion criteria was performed and analyzed thematically. Results: The research showed serious health risks from ED use, including cardiac arrhythmias, neurological and behavioral changes, and other health issues, including a few deaths (Costantino et.al., 2023). Conclusions: …

Restoring The Glymphatic Pump: 40 Hz Gamma Entrainment As A Rescue For Nocturnal Neuro-Metabolic Damage, John Meade, Ethan Jerome, Owen Newman

Liberty University Research Week

The human brain is a high-energy organ that produces significant metabolic waste throughout the day. However, unlike the rest of the body, the brain lacks a traditional lymphatic system to drain this waste. Instead, it relies on a glymphatic system: a specialized microscopic plumbing network that uses cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to wash the spaces between the brain cells during sleep (see figure 1).1 At the heart of this system are aquaporins (specifically AQP4), which are specialized protein channels that allow the passage of water (see figure 2). With respect to the glymphatic system, they are located on the feet of …

Nil And Gender Equality In Division 1 Athletics: Integrating Institutional Support, Marketplace Dynamics, And Athlete Earnings¿, Sawyer Magnett, Ashlie Miles, Elizabeth Ringley, Isobel Janet Caprielle Pettem Shand

Liberty University Research Week

The implementation of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies in collegiate athletics has fundamentally transformed how student-athletes can earn income from their sport and build their own brands in ways that were never before available. This shift has created new opportunities for both male and female athletes, but it has also introduced significant disparities between how this money is allocated between males and females. This is largely due to this unprecedented landscape within collegiate athletics in combination with minimal regulations and procedures as outlined by the NCAA. Due to this, universities have begun to navigate how to disperse both direct …

Assessing The Relationship Between 60-Second Push-Up Performance And 1-Rep-Max Bench Press, Brennen Bargesser

Liberty University Research Week

INTRODUCTION: The push-up test has been widely used in populations with low-training age and military performance for muscular endurance testing. Comparatively, 1-rep-max (1RM) bench press testing has been used to determine maximal strength in resistance training settings across ages and disciplines. However, there is no current literature assessing the relationship between the 60-second AMRAP (as many reps as possible) push-up test and the 1RM bench press, or the practical application of utilizing the push-up test as a maximum strength testing method. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between a 60-second AMRAP push-up test and a …

Biological And Hormonal Influences On Depression Among Women Compared To Men, Grace Steiner, Audrey Wrinkle, Chloe Dudgeon, Julia Stamp, Kathryn Dennis, Marissa Wojcik, Meghan Dayton, Meilin Loerop

Liberty University Research Week

This research aims to investigate various factors influencing the mechanisms of depression manifestation in men and women as it relates to biological and hormonal factors. Individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD), according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; American Psychiatric Association, 2013), experience a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure lasting for a minimum of 2 weeks. Depression and anxiety are twice as prevalent among women compared to men (Kundakovic & Rocks, 2022), although the underlying mechanisms and biological factors remain unknown. We aim to address the research question: “How do …

Injury Prevalence In D1 College Track And Field Athletes, Kaitlyn Mcgonagle

Liberty University Research Week

Context: Given the number of events in collegiate track and field there is bound to be a variety of injuries present in the sport. Knowing the prevalent injuries means that athletic trainers can better plan for what they will encounter. As well as being able to come in prepared and ready for the injuries they will likely be working with. So, it begs the question, what injuries are most prevalent in D1 track and field athletes.

Methods: Injury prevalence data were gathered from Liberty Universities track and field, and cross-country teams for both men and women. The injury data was …

The Role Of Aerobic Exercise In Reducing Post-Injury Symptoms Among Adolescents With Brain Injury: A Critically Appraised Topic, Brandon Walker, Austin Snow

Liberty University Research Week

Clinical Scenario: Historically, concussion management has emphasized inactivity or restricted aerobic activity for athletes recovering from sports-related concussions. Emerging evidence, however, suggests that incorporating controlled aerobic exercise during rehabilitation may facilitate recovery and reduce the persistence of post-concussion symptoms. Focused Clinical Question: In adolescents with sports-related concussions, does the implementation of aerobic exercise facilitate recovery and reduce the risk of persistent post-injury symptoms? Summary of Key Findings: The studies discussed in this Critically Appraised Topic (CAT) consistently demonstrate that sub-symptom threshold aerobic exercise is both safe and beneficial for adolescent athletes recovering from acute or persistent sport-related concussions. This training …

Reducing Fear Through Meaning: A Theoretical Exploration Of Structured Spiritual Conversations In Pediatric Chronic And Life-Limiting Illness, Julia Stamp

Liberty University Research Week

Fear is a significant yet frequently under-addressed experience among pediatric patients with chronic or life-limiting illnesses, influencing emotional well-being and overall quality of life. This fear is frequently shaped by uncertainty, loss of control, and difficulty processing illness-related life experiences. Spirituality, defined as the way individuals seek meaning, purpose, and connection, has been increasingly recognized as an essential component of holistic pediatric care. These connections have been supported by research demonstrating that higher levels of spiritual well-being are associated with improved emotional functioning, increased hope, and stronger coping mechanisms in children with serious illness (Juškauskiene et al., 2023). Recent research …

The Effect Of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Rtms) On Knee Rehabilitation: A Critically Appraised Topic, Destiny Seetram

Liberty University Research Week

Context: Knee injuries, including anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and knee osteoarthritis (KOA), can lead to decreased quadriceps strength, reduced joint function, and persistent pain. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can enhance corticospinal excitability, promote quadriceps activation, and improve functional recovery. This critically appraised topic evaluates the effects of rTMS on pain, quadriceps function, and overall recovery in individuals undergoing knee rehabilitation.

Methods: Google Scholar, PubMed, and Trip Database were searched for studies published within the past 5 years. The initial search identified 942 studies. After screening titles and abstracts, 939 studies were excluded due to duplicates or relevance. Three …

Bridging The Gap In Adolescent And Young Adult Sexual Health Education, Claire Rau, Anjali Jacob, Cassidy Harris, Michael Ago Tetteh

Liberty University Research Week

This research addresses the critical need for improved sexual health education for adolescents and young adults, prompted by current STI and pregnancy data in Virginia. Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review evaluated existing evidence-based, relationship-skills-focused sexual health interventions. The findings indicate that while current programs effectively target risk reduction and pregnancy prevention, they often lack the integration of a Biblical worldview and sufficient focus on comprehensive relational development alongside sexual health knowledge. Consequently, this project proposes adapting the Love Notes program and developing the Digging Deep curriculum to better bridge these gaps.

Profanity In Public Address And Its Influence On Audience Perception, Emma Witler

Liberty University Research Week

Profanity is not a novel addition to the context of language and communication. While words themselves or the connotation and severity surrounding them has assuredly evolved, the presence of profanity in society is just as significant now as it has always been. Geography, culture, religious beliefs or affiliations, politics, and even age can be determining factors of what is considered “too far” and when or where this boundary has been crossed. Due to the nature of profanity and its inherent impact on society, it is essential that the use of profanity is analyzed contextually with the intent of increasing communicative …

Epidemiology And Sexual Transmission Of Mpox In Non-Msm Populations: A Systematic Review Proposal (2022-2025), Ifeoluwanimi Shobayo, Ashlan Killeen, Chelsea Mazonde, Eunice Onwuka, Michael Ago Tetteh, Prince Osei Sarpong, Rachel Williams

Liberty University Research Week

Introduction: Mpox epidemiology during the 2022–2025 global outbreaks has been extensively characterized within men who have sex with men (MSM) networks. However, transmission dynamics among non-MSM populations including heterosexual men, women, children, and mixed-population groups remain insufficiently described. This gap limits comprehensive public health understanding and response. This study aims to: (1) identify exposures and transmission routes among non-MSM populations, (2) describe demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, and outcomes, and (3) identify evidence gaps to inform preparedness strategies.

Methods: This systematic review will follow PRISMA-P guidelines. A comprehensive literature search will be conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and …

Bridging The Digital Divide In Rural America: How 2026–2030 Digital Health Policies, Perseverance Nothando Moyo

Liberty University Research Week

Background: Since the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. digital health policies have evolved from temporary emergency measures into permanent infrastructure reshaping healthcare delivery. Rural and underserved communities (~46 million Americans) face persistent access disparities, exacerbated by a projected 23% decline in rural physicians by 2030. Major federal investments include Medicare telehealth flexibilities extended through 2027, DEA telemedicine prescribing through 2026, and the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP, 2026–2030). This study examines the impact of these policies on healthcare access and patient engagement in rural and underserved areas during 2026–2030.

Methods: Policy analysis and narrative review of the U.S. digital health …

Western Blot Analysis Of A Formalin-Induced Neuropathic Pain Model In Mice, Caroline Foy

Liberty University Research Week

Neuropathic pain is a chronic debilitating condition typically caused by nervous system injury or disease. This experiment proposes that a single subcutaneous injection of formalin is sufficient to produce neuropathic pain and associated nervous tissue changes. It is hypothesized that a western blot of lumbar tissue collected from formalin-injected mice will show an increase of two key proteins indicating gliosis: GFAP and Iba1.

Youth Sport Specialization And Overuse Injury Risk Among Athletes Ages 8–14: A Quantitative Comparative Study, Brian Anderson, Austin Lay, Cameron Roark, Colsen Debold, Walker Mooney

Liberty University Research Week

This research paper examines the relationship between youth sport specialization and injury risk among athletes ages 8-14. The study specifically investigates whether athletes in this age range who participate in a single sport year-round minimum 8 months experience higher rates of overuse and season ending injuries compared to athletes who play multiple sports year-round. Early specialization in sport has become increasingly common as families pursue elite competition and scholarship opportunities. However, concerns have grown regarding repetitive stress and overuse injuries in young athletes whose bodies are still developing. The purpose of this study is to determine if there is a …

Balancing Risk And Reward: Examining Offensive Rebound Rates And Points Per Possession In Di Men’S College Basketball, Quinten Chiarizzio, Braden Chupp, Joshua Hines, Conor Guiltinan

Liberty University Research Week

This study aims to investigate how the number of offensive rebounders attempting to rebound a missed shot affects the offensive rebounding rate and the points per possession of the offensive team. Offensive rebounding rate is a strong indicator of success in basketball and can drastically improve a team's efficiency. Some research has been done at the NBA level, yet little research has been done at the college level into maximizing this rate without jeopardizing the defensive end. This study aims to address the research question: "How does the number of offensive rebounders impact the offensive rebounding rate and points per …

Effects Of Hippotherapy On Motor Control In Children With Cerebral Palsy (Cp): A Critically Appraised Topic, Mckenna Coots, Katrina Myers, Lillian Cooper

Liberty University Research Week

Clinical Scenario: Cerebral Palsy has impacted a wide variety of individuals, especially children in their motor control, movement, and physical functioning. Hippotherapy has been used to improve the activities of daily living in diverse conditions and physical limitations. Specifically, studies have found a positive effect on cerebral palsy patients with this form of therapy in gait and motor function. Clinical Question: In children with cerebral palsy, was hippotherapy effective in improving motor control required for activities of daily living?

Summary of Key Findings: The authors of four high quality articles found that hippotherapy is an effective treatment for children diagnosed …

Instagram, Tiktok, And Athlete Identity: Exploring Social Comparison In Subjectively Judged Youth Sports, Jenna Moffat, Brooklyn Woodard, Danner Allen, Greta Snukis, Kalie Orefice

Liberty University Research Week

This study aims to examine the effects of social media platforms, Instagram and TikTok, on the mental health of adolescent athletes who are in subjective sports. Many athletes look at other athletes' performances on social media or scroll on Instagram or TikTok without realizing the harm that it can cause to their mental health and individual performance. When referring to mental health, athletes are specifically being asked about anxiety and depression, and if they notice an increase in these mental health symptoms or struggle with comparison after looking at these platforms. The research question is: How does comparison negatively impact …

Financial Return On Investment Of Super Bowl Advertising: A Six-Month Post-Air Sales Analysis, Emma Jennings, Hannah Wood, Jenna Nicely, Kaleb Macklin

Liberty University Research Week

This proposed study aims to examine the return on investment (ROI) of Super Bowl advertisements for individual companies utilizing a comparison of six-month periods before and after the commercials are originally aired at the game. The Super Bowl is a highly favored social event where millions of people gather both in person on location and around television screens. Whether it is the teams, the half-time show, or the commercials, there is clearly something about this event that brings people together, and the publicity does not go unnoticed. Companies pay millions of dollars for a 30-second advertisement. This begs the question …

Disaster Relief Integration And Public Funding Allocation In Professional Sports Venues: A Comparative Analysis, Jayden Jackson, Andrew Holzapfel, Emma Cromer, Madison Yeager, Tyler Ondrea

Liberty University Research Week

There is a documented, ever-rising cost associated with the construction and maintenance of professional sport stadiums across the United States, especially in the southern states. While the public subsidies that support these stadiums remain highly debated among policymakers, taxpayers, economists, and community stakeholders, many facilities serve as mission-ready, high-utility community hubs during public disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and other large-scale emergencies. This study investigates whether a connection exists between a venue’s disaster relief utility and the total public subsidy it receives post-disaster over a defined period of time. Grounded in Social Exchange Theory, the study aims to determine if …

Predictors Of Home Game Attendance In Ncaa Division I Softball: A Case Study Of Liberty University., Luke Barnett, Grace Bennett, Micah Dannelly, Moses Batchelor, Zachary Wood

Liberty University Research Week

This study investigates the attendance of the Liberty Softball Program. The reason for this study is due to the success of the softball team. In 2025, the team defeated the number one seed in the country, Texas A&M, and advanced to super regionals in the college softball playoff. This is an achievement for any school, but especially for a school that is the size of Liberty. However, Liberty averages low attendance numbers, even in these recent years of on the field success. In this, what is the relationship between team performance, game factors, and home game attendance for the Liberty …

The Effect Of Repetitive Head Impact Exposure On The Risk Of Developing Mental Health Conditions In Contact Sport Athletes: A Critically Appraised Topic, Jamie Lawrence

Liberty University Research Week

Context: Repetitive Head Impact (RHI) exposure is a frequent consequence of participating in contact sports. Often associated with Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and other neurocognitive diseases, it has been suggested that RHI can lead to a prevalence of mental health symptoms. The aim of this paper is to determine if RHI exposure increases the risk of developing mental health conditions in contact sport athletes.

Methods: CINAHL Ultimate, MEDLINE Ultimate, PubMed, and SPORTDiscus were searched for relevant literature pertaining to the focused clinical question. The search was conducted from January 1st to February 18th, 2026. Keywords used to guide the search …

Appending Azobenzenes To Nitrosoarenes: Creating Reversible Light Control Over Monomerization, Austin Bennett, Michael Polito

Liberty University Research Week

This study investigates the synthesis and monomer/dimer (M/D) characteristics of both meta- and para-nitrosoazobenzenes (NOAB). Previous studies have shown that nitrosobenzenes can interchange between dimer and monomer forms under various conditions. Additionally, various substituted azobenzenes can isomerize from their cis- to trans- configuration via UV light exposure. We hypothesize that dimerization of nitrosoazobenzenes can be achieved and controlled via the use of UV light. Upon isomerization of the azobenzene (AB) group, and reduction of AB conjugation, the NOAB should equilibrate from its dimer to monomer form. We intend to synthesize both m- and p-NOABs and use NMR and IR spectroscopic …

The Role Of Artificial Intelligence In Division I Collegiate Scouting: A Qualitative Study Of Recruiter Perspectives, Leah Watson, Jonah Kirschner, Joseph Ebenroth, Max-Alain Pierre-Pierre, Micah Witt

Liberty University Research Week

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a fairly new and prevalent part of collegiate athletics, especially in how teams examine and scout athletes. Scouting is the process of watching and evaluating athletes’ performance with the intent of recruitment. The purpose of this study is to explore how division 1 collegiate recruiting teams can use AI as a tool to guide them in their process of scouting. Traditionally, scouting involves a lot of travel, film watching, and stress on team scouts, which can bring about problems such as emotional and opinionated decisions, whereas AI could bring a more statistical, less stressful scouting process. …

Analysis Of Instructional Asl Resources For Ddeaf Children, Rayah Finstad

Liberty University Research Week

Living in a digital age, online resources are commonly used to teach, entertain, develop skills and build connections for both Hearing and dDeaf1 children around the world. However, no research has been conducted to determine what makes these videos successful in reaching their goals. Literature in the fields of education, dDeaf education, American Sign Language (ASL), and dDeaf spirituality is limited in scope. The current research demonstrates that dDeaf individuals primarily learn through visual means, namely, ASL. In communicating, consideration must be given to culture, language preferences, and visual methods. While educational studies mention some effective strategies for teaching literature …