Digital Commons Network^™

Disaster Preparedness In Healthcare Workers, Helen Prow

Research & Creative Achievement Day

Disasters can negatively impact healthcare systems worldwide, with increased impacts on resource-limited communities. Nurses and other healthcare workers are often on the frontlines of disaster response; evidence shows that many healthcare workers worldwide are not adequately prepared to respond effectively. The purpose of this honors project is to analyze factors and interventions that influence healthcare workers, specifically nurses, in disaster preparedness in resource-limited settings globally. A review of peer-reviewed literature published within the past ten years was conducted using systems such as CINAHL, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Open Evidence. Articles were selected based on relevance to disaster preparedness among healthcare …

Exploring How Virtual Reality Affects The Client-Recreational Therapist Relationship, Ellie Barker, Sophia M. Young, Natalia C. Miller, Lindsay J. Bergan

Research & Creative Achievement Day

Virtual Reality (VR) is an electronic recreation of reality, depicting environments, and enabling clients to interact with instantaneous simulations that provide an immersive experience (Guttentag, 2010;  McGovern, 1994). Adopting VR as an intervention could be a breakthrough innovation to overcome obstacles while connecting with clients. Current research on VR used in Recreational Therapy (RT) holds inconsistencies in its findings, specifically across various populations and VR tools. The purpose of this study was to gain insights from professionals about the therapeutic relationship between clients and therapists when using VR as an intervention. This study examined how the relationship between the therapist …

Scrolling Tiktok, Like It’S My Job… Because It Is, Lauren Larson

Research & Creative Achievement Day

I work as a social media and admissions intern at Winona State University's admissions office. Located in Winona, MN, in Maxwell Hall on the WSU campus. For this internship, I was tasked with creating content for the WSU admission platform, typically on TikTok and Instagram.  To go along with creation, I was also involved in the behind-the-scenes, looking at analytics. Another responsibility was giving the welcome speech before tours to prospective students and their families. I also gave tours during the larger events held by the admission office, such as Warrior Way Day and OGVs.  I can apply what I …

A Metaphor Criticism On Disney-Pixar's Elemental, Erin O. Donovan

Research & Creative Achievement Day

Immigration is a contested topic, having a variety of opinions, both negative and positive throughout history. Films are important to study, as they can frame important topics, like immigration, and shape our understanding. Animated children's films have the ability to deliver messages and create meaning through a fun, innocent vehicle that disguises these messages. The use of metaphors in this case, are a delivery method of underlying messages, as metaphors can be strategically used to go unnoticed in a story. This study sets out to use metaphor criticism on the Disney-Pixar film, Elemental (2023), by Peter Sohn, to examine its …

Care, Capitalism, And Croissants: Interprofessional Students Take On Business Of Healthcare In Paris, Beth A. Komay, Phoebe S. Enebechi, Selma Dzamalija, Nicole A. Sharp

Research & Creative Achievement Day

The Business of Healthcare in Paris is a faculty-led study-away program that unites business, nursing, and other healthcare students in an immersive experience of global healthcare systems. The primary design of this course is around interprofessional learning that integrates coursework and cultural experiences from within the Midwest United States (US) and France. Students begin the course by visiting healthcare facilities and small alternative-therapy businesses in the US, gaining initial exposure to diverse care environments. They then travel to Paris and surrounding areas to explore comparable sites, including hospitals, an art therapy center, a residential rehabilitation facility, and small businesses providing …

Prayer As A Predictor To God Attachment, Levi Morgan, Hampton Still

Liberty University Research Week

Attachment theory describes the innate desire for infants to form bonds with their caregivers, which impacts biopsychosocial functioning across the lifespan. Attachment theory has expanded to religious and spiritual contexts to describe the innate desire for individuals to form a relationship with God. One prominent religious practice is prayer, which is a relational tool performed by an individual or a group to communicate with and form a stronger relationship with God. Prayer has demonstrated relationships with various positive mental health outcomes and a stronger attachment to God. However, previous literature has yet to examine the relationship between various forms of …

The Psychological And Physiological Effects Of Acute Social Media Use, Noah Rimmer

Liberty University Research Week

No abstract provided.

Preparatory Mixed-Methods Evaluation Of Ipc Infrastructure Vulnerability After Elc Funding Retrenchment: A Pilot Study Protocol, Komal Jessica Arsin, Ifeoluwanimi Shobayo, Prince Osei Sarpong, Robyn Anderson

Liberty University Research Week

Background: Infection prevention and control (IPC) is essential for preventing healthcare-associated infections and strengthening healthcare system preparedness. Long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are particularly vulnerable to infectious disease outbreaks due to high-risk resident populations and shared care environments. Federal programs such as the Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity (ELC) initiative have supported IPC workforce development and surveillance systems, but reductions in emergency funding may expose vulnerabilities in IPC infrastructure.

Objective: To assess the feasibility of conducting a mixed-methods evaluation of IPC infrastructure vulnerability among long-term care facilities in Southwest Virginia following ELC funding retrenchment.

Methods: A preparatory mixed-methods pilot study will collect …

Exploring The K-12 Educational Experiences Of First-Generation Hispanic Undergraduate Students, Stephanie Hernandez-Lopez

Liberty University Research Week

Research Question: This qualitative study examines how first-generation Hispanic undergraduate students perceive their K-12 educational experiences and how these shaped their transition into higher education. Method: Through semi-structured interviews with four participants, the research identifies recurring themes, including parental involvement, language barriers, access to resources, motivation, and preparedness for college. These insights contribute to understanding systemic factors behind the achievement gap and inform strategies for more equitable educational support. Conclusion: Overall, the findings show that first-generation Hispanic students’ college readiness is shaped by the combined effects of limited early academic rigor, inconsistent school–family communication, and assumptions about home academic support. …

I Liked Your Book ... Now Tell Me What It Means: Intertextual And Postmodern Influences In An Original Narrative, Katherine Bechter

Liberty University Research Week

My novel, I Liked Your Book ... Now Tell Me What It Means, takes inspiration from postmodern works like Italo Calvino’s If on a Winter’s Night a Traveler and Thomas Pynchon’s The Crying of Lot 49. My novel, written in second person, features an unnamed female protagonist who wants to determine the true meaning of a short story because her thesis chair asks her how she can definitively assert the author’s intentions, but the subjective nature of the story and the inaccessibility of the author makes interpretation difficult, putting her entire thesis project at risk. My novel mirrors the postmodern …

Environmental Limitations Of A Low-Cost, Cots Lora Meshcore Node Network, Robert Thompson, Alexander Weir, David Zelinsky, Hannah Murai, Judah Sotomayor

Liberty University Research Week

During catastrophic emergencies, when the existing cellular infrastructure is rendered unusable, reliable off-grid communication equipment can save lives. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of low-cost consumer radio hardware utilizing LoRa wireless technology in an emergency communications scenario. During catastrophic emergencies, when the existing cellular infrastructure is rendered unusable, reliable off-grid communication equipment can save lives. LoRa is a wireless communication technology that can be easily deployed with low-cost radio hardware. Due to its low power consumption, flexible deployment, and wide range, LoRa modules are well-suited for setting up a network in an emergency response scenario when traditional communication …

Beyond Labeling: Examining Mpox As A Sexually Transmitted Infection- ¿A Literature Review¿, Rachel Williams, Ashlan Killeen, Eunice Onwuka

Liberty University Research Week

Introduction

Since 2022, Mpox outbreak trends have marked a shift in the epidemiology of the disease which has long been treated as a zoonotic infection. This is due to emerging patterns of cases of Mpox linked with sexual transmission, particularly in non-endemic regions reporting over 100,000 cases across 122 countries. This pattern has raised growing concerns regarding sexual transmission of Mpox necessitating further investigation.

Aim/Objective

This literature review examines current epidemiological, clinical/virological evidence to evaluate Mpox as an STI beyond labelling. and provides foundational context for a forthcoming systematic review examining priority populations affected during the 2022–2025 global outbreak.

Proposed …

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.

Loneliness And Health Behaviors, Haylee Goral, Jianna Bigio, Ashley Bustamante, Ruby Maton, Sullivan Morefield, Avery Owen

Liberty University Research Week

No abstract provided.

Histological Quality Of Immersion Vs Intravascular Fixation Of Fresh Tissue, Andrew Hodges, Bright Danso, Gretchka Mair, Kingsley Ampong, Rebekah Satalino

Liberty University Research Week

Tissue fixation is a fundamental determinant of histological quality, preserving cellular architecture through protein cross-linking and enzymatic inactivation [6]. Among fixation approaches, intravascular (perfusion) and immersion methods differ significantly in mechanism and outcomes. Perfusion fixation rapidly distributes fixative via the vascular system, often producing more uniform preservation, whereas immersion fixation relies on diffusion, which may result in delayed penetration and heterogeneous tissue quality [5]. Despite these limitations, immersion-based preservation remains widely used in anatomical education and commercial specimen preparation due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness [2]. Reports suggest that fixation quality can influence analyses, including morphology, antigenicity, and staining reliability, …

Predicting Diabetes Using Logistic Regression: A Cross-Sectional Analysis Of The Pima Indians Diabetes Dataset, Caroline Andrew, Ibrahim Aliu

GS4 Student Scholars Symposium

Introduction: Globally, Diabetes affects an estimated 589 million adults and caused approximately 3.4 million deaths equivalent to one death every six seconds, with type 2 diabetes accounting for most cases. The Pima Indians of Arizona have one of the highest documented prevalence rates of type 2 diabetes globally, making their population central to diabetes research. Although the Pima Diabetes Dataset has been widely used in predictive and machine-learning studies, few investigations have applied rigorous multivariable epidemiologic methods to quantify the independent contributions of key demographic and metabolic risk factors. This study aimed to characterize diabetes risk factors and quantify independent …

What Is Philosophy For? Reading Wittgenstein After Cavell, Maggie L. Zhang

2026 Claremont Colleges Library Undergraduate Research Award

This literature review examines two major strands of Cavellian scholarship on Wittgenstein, arguing that their relative separation has obscured the insights each offers the other. Cavell’s “therapeutic” reading of Wittgenstein understands his philosophical project not as a theory of language but as an activity aimed at dissolving the philosophical fantasy of such a theory. This approach has been taken up along two largely distinct lines of inquiry: one focused on the Tractatus and the debate between substantial and austere views of nonsense, and another centered on the Philosophical Investigations and its relation to ordinary language philosophy, particularly in light of …

Systemic Barriers To Parental Involvement In Immigrant Families: Impact On Children’S Academic Outcomes, Ama Jane Baffoe

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

This literature review examines how parental involvement and systemic barriers influence children’s academic outcomes, specifically within immigrant families. By analyzing research on language proficiency and work schedules, this study identifies how these factors limit parental participation in school-based activities. Findings indicate that while parental involvement consistently correlates with academic achievement and emotional stability, current school systems often disadvantage immigrant families facing these barriers. The review concludes that schools must develop more inclusive involvement strategies to eliminate educational inequalities and better support the success of students from diverse backgrounds.

​​Accessibility Of Online Health Portals​, Kailey A. Cooper, Nate Dolan, Carly Kreisa, Ayva Peterson, Lindsey Pinter, Helen Prow, Abagail Ripley, Amelia Torgerson

Research & Creative Achievement Day

Winona State University Nursing students partnered with Winona County Public Health to create education for clients related to accessibility, navigating online health portals, and addressing barriers to accessing portals. The project included a community assessment and literature review that outlines health portals and how they are accessed amongst different patient populations. As the healthcare world shifts from paper to online services, online health or patient portals have become increasingly common (Andreadis et al., 2025). Online health portals are used as a communication pathway between healthcare interdisciplinary teams and the patient. Information on these portals includes lab results, communication with providers, …

Health Education For Caregivers Of Individuals With Intellectual And Developmental Disability (Idd), Madison M. Conlin, Jack Lux, Megan Hesse, Sadie Olson, Violet Nelson, Christina Chao, Anna Peterson, Johanna Shubert

Research & Creative Achievement Day

Background: Winona State University nursing students partner with Home and Community Options (HCO) during their population health clinical experience. HCO’s mission is to “empower and support people with developmental disabilities,” with a vision of ensuring that all individuals thrive and are valued members of their communities (Home and Community Options, n.d.). The Healthcare Director at HCO identified a need for additional staff education related to common health conditions affecting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including arthritis, diabetes, and depression or other mental health concerns. In response to this identified need, nursing students developed evidence-based educational strategies to enhance …

Moving And Grooving: Staying Safe, Active, And Connected, Seth J. Brewers, Norah Clough, Megan Hefti, Sydney Kiefer, Abigail Knoernschild, Jessica Miley, Boyd Skelley, Gavyn Soderstrom

Research & Creative Achievement Day

Background: The Holmen Area Community Center (HACC) is a community-based organization whose mission is to facilitate opportunities and interactions that connect all generations. Nursing students at Winona State University offered wellness checks for community members, mainly older adults, which included blood pressure screening, foot care, fall risk assessments, hearing checks, memory screens, and gentle shoulder massages. During these experiences, community members and staff requested more information and interactive sessions focused on safety education, disease prevention, wellness promotion, and emergency preparedness. Problem Statement/Purpose: Recent feedback showed a growing demand for interactive sessions and support that builds confidence in managing health needs …

2026 Conference Program, Georgia Southern University

GS4 Student Scholars Symposium

Conference Program

Medicinal Plants And One Health Drug Discovery: Plectranthus Abietanes As P-Glycoprotein Modulators, Patricia Rijo

Oxford ICSB

Cancer remains a major global health challenge, with multidrug resistance (MDR)—frequently driven by P-glycoprotein (P-gp) overexpression—significantly limiting the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Within a One Health perspective, Africa, home to five major medicinal biodiversity hotspots, represents an underexplored reservoir for natural products–based drug discovery. Among this rich flora, the genus Plectranthus (Lamiaceae) emerges as a particularly promising source of bioactive abietane diterpenes. In this work, the abietane diterpene 7α-acetoxy-6β-hydroxyroyleanone (Roy), isolated from Plectranthus grandidentatus Gürke, exhibited pronounced cytotoxic activity against several cancer cell lines. To enhance its pharmacological profile, a series of Roy ester derivatives was synthesized and evaluated for their …

2026 Urs Abstract Booket, Undergraduate Research Center, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Undergraduate Research Symposium

Complete Schedule of Events for the 28th Annual Undergraduate Research Symposium at Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Rain: The Biologist, Jennifer Trahant

Liberty University Research Week

This mixed-media sculpture focuses on creating a stylized fantasy creature that tells a story through its design. The piece combines different materials and techniques, including sculpting, making miniature clothing, casting resin eyes, airbrushing color, and using yarn for hair, to build a character that feels expressive and intentional. Inspired by the custom doll redesign community, this project looks at how small details and material choices can shape personality and suggest a narrative. Each part of the sculpture works together to give the character a sense of life and individuality. Overall, this piece shows how pulling techniques from different art practices …

Civilization Vi, Jennifer Trahant

Liberty University Research Week

This oil painting explores the process of building a finished work from initial inspiration to final rendering. The piece follows a structured approach, including sketching, value mapping, and layering color, to develop a cohesive composition. While technical skill plays an important role in creating a successful painting, this project also focuses on how inspiration and emotional depth affect the final result. Throughout the process, decisions in composition, color, and detail were used to strengthen both the visual impact and overall meaning of the piece. Rather than relying only on technique, the painting aims to show how personal interpretation and intention …

Almost Home: Creating Design For Community, Kayla Burch

Liberty University Research Week

I was tasked with creating a visual brand, identity package, and collateral for a fictitious company of my choosing. The project’s main concept was to avoid the cliches of typical food industry businesses. For my project, I created a fictitious coffee shop called “Almost Home” and placed the business on Main Street in Lynchburg, Virginia. Coffee shops can contain cliches by using coffee puns in their names or by having a copy and paste aesthetic. “Almost Home” avoids food industry and coffee shop cliches by building an identity that is not seen in other coffee shops (specifically in Lynchburg, Virginia). …

Wood Fired Teapot, Philip Perry

Liberty University Research Week

No abstract provided.

Mr. Meerkat, Marie Shumaker

Liberty University Research Week

"Mr. Meerkat" is a graphite drawing that explores how character and personality can be expressed through realistic yet imaginative animal imagery. The project combines accurate meerkat anatomy with human elements to create a tap-dancing performer inspired by the elegance of the 1920s. This nostalgic theme contrasts with modern minimalist trends by emphasizing craftsmanship, effort, and expressive detail. Using graphite techniques such as shading, hatching, and contouring, the drawing captures varied textures including fur, fabric, and wood, creating a cohesive and character-driven composition.

The Role Of Group Guidance With Psychodrama In Promoting Self-Adjustment: Does It Really Work For Adolescents?, Hanifa Salsa Bila, Dian Ari Widyastuti, Sri Tutur Martaningsih, Agungbudiprabowo Agungbudiprabowo, Taquddin Abd Mukti

Buletin Konseling Inovatif

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of group guidance using psychodrama techniques in improving self-adjustment among students. The study employed a quantitative approach with an experimental research design, specifically a pretest–posttest control group design. The participants consisted of ten students, divided into an experimental group of five students and a control group of five students. The experimental group received group guidance with psychodrama techniques, while the control group received treatment as usual. The research participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-adjustment scale, which had been analyzed for validity and reliability using …