Digital Commons Network^™

Breathing Easy: Public Perceptions Of Ventilation And Long Covid Risk In Indoor Spaces., Kristine Clyde, Melissa Batyi, Shania Braithwaite

Science Seminar

Under the direction of Dr. Abubakarr Jalloh, Chanlee Luu, James Miller

This research investigates public awareness on the relationship between ventilation and the risk of COVID-19 infection in indoor spaces, as welll as perceptions of its ongoing risks, including the long-term condition known as Long COVID. As respiratory viruses like SARS-CoV2 primarily spread through airborne particles, indoor air quality and ventilation have become key factors in minimizing exposure particularly in shared environments like classrooms and campus buildings. Through an online survey that was administered at Hollins University, we collected data on how students and community members perceive indoor COVID-19 transmission …

Behavioral Responses Of Magellanic Penguins At Their Breeding Colony On Magdalena Island, Holly Hylton, Gabriella Demaria, Charlie Dobson, Lukas Hanson, Finley Webb

Science Seminar

Under the direction of Dr. Glenda Hevia, School for Field Studies, Chile Coordinated by Dr. Renee Godard Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) are culturally and ecologically significant seabirds that are found in southern South America. Our study aimed to observe the behaviors of Magellanic penguins in a small breeding colony located at Magdalena Island in the Strait of Magellan, Patagonia, Chile. We observed 81 penguins over three continuous days in November 2024 to analyze how environmental and anthropogenic factors impact adult penguins. Behavioral metrics included time spent in burrows, proportion of time active, and vocalizations. Statistical analysis showed a significant positive …

Scaredy Cats: Domestic Cat Responses To Audio Stimuli, Jennalee Williams

Science Seminar

Under the direction of Dr. Renee Godard Predators can detect prey by a variety of mechanisms with auditory cues being of importance particularly in nocturnal animals. Previous studies have shown that domesticated cats can track potential prey by sound. In this study, I compared the responses of nine domestic cats (Felis catus) to different sounds, two mimicking prey (a rodent death scream and crinkly noise) and a neutral beep tone. Sounds were projected from undercover and the distance the cat spent within 1 m of the speaker was recorded at 10 second intervales before (2 min), during (2 min) and …

Montana Assault Resource Index, Storytelling & Education (Mt A.R.I.S.E.): Breaking Barriers To Disclosure Of Sexual Violence In The Lgbtq+ Community, Olivia G. Donohue, Kate Bick, Cana Odegaard, Emma Hixson

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

This project aims to address the unique needs of LEGBTQ+ survivors of sexual violence, through the enhancement of social support and resource accessibility for this marginalized group, particularly reaching those in rural settings like Montana. Existing literature highlights significant failures to understand the intersectional vulnerabilities and resilience factors impacting recovery and outcomes among LGBTQ+ individuals. Often, studies neglect specific subgroups, including transgender individuals, bisexual persons, and nonbinary survivors, and do not implement comprehensive, intersectional frameworks that capture the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. In rural areas, LGBTQ+ individuals face systemic issues, such as restricted access to supportive healthcare, social …

The Ethics Of Animal Rights And Zoos, Jamie L. Tucker Crockett

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

In my essay, I will be diving into the controversial issue of Animal containment, focusing on zoos in the United States. I will be taking this opportunity to establish a new way of thinking about the argument which states the pros of zoos outweigh the negative effects they have on the animals who live there. Neither side of the argument has a malicious intention towards harming animals. Instead, each side shows a different approach to what it is to properly care, and respect for animal rights. Those arguing in support of zoos commonly reference arguments dating back to Aristotle. However, …

Balanced On My Tiptoes: Why Do People Toe-Walk And How Can Professionals Learn From Them?, Kamara Wilbur

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

This journalistic and personal essay is about idiopathic toe-walking (ITW) and makes a case for more thoughtful communication between the scientific world and individual toe-walkers. ITW is the medical term describing when a person lands on the ball of the foot instead of the heel, usually occurring when learning to walk. While there have been many studies on effective ways to treat ITW, they tend to emphasize observational methods and behavioral and structural changes, neglecting to focus on the individual’s personal experiences and understandings of why they toe-walk. In fact, after treatment for tendon structure or foot gait, many toe-walkers …

Grizzly Green Labs: Implementing A Green Lab Program At The University Of Montana, Katie Coates, Maya Gritzner, Alena Flocchini, Emma Hasquet, Sophia Miller, Kylie Olson

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Research laboratories are a major but often overlooked source of energy consumption and waste in universities. Labs rely on single-use plastics for sterility and energy-intensive equipment, resulting in a substantial environmental impact. Globally, laboratories consume significantly more energy than the average household and generate millions of tons of plastic waste yearly. To address this, many universities worldwide and in the United States have adopted sustainable initiatives through “Green Lab” programs, which have been found to successfully reduce resource consumption while maintaining research integrity. Despite the University of Montana's commitment to sustainability, no university programs or regulations address lab sustainability, even …

Closing Thoughts, Mark A. Russell

American Journal of Rising Scholar Activities

No abstract provided.

Probing Surface Characteristics Of Plant-Based Protein Powders, Anthony Scott

American Journal of Rising Scholar Activities

Plant-based protein powders are expected to take-on a larger role in human diet as concerns regarding animal-based protein production grow. Unfortunately, not much physical property information about these proteins is available. This study was an attempt by researchers to perform an initial investigation of five powders: Mung bean, peas, pumpkin seed, Fava bean, and Soybeans. Typical particle sizing was determined, along with the surface morphology. Shear testing on the bulk materials was performed to establish the powders’ potential flowability. Inverse gas chromatography provided surface energies of the five protein types, and an X-ray photoelectron spectrograph was used to determine the …

Allp North American Review, Marley Fletcher, Kaitlin Murphy, Justin Brown, Ashley Staszak, Addelyn Vana

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

This is a collection of letters showcasing the correspondence between poet Amy Lowell and editor Elizabeth Cutting. Through these letters, we understand how artistic movements are not only built on theory or aesthetics, but also on collaboration, mentorship, and personal connection. By showcasing these letters with minimal editorial intervention, we invite readers to experience modernism not only as letters on a page, but as emotional, personal, and evolving conversation. This collection serves as a reminder that literature is as much about relationships as it is about texts.

Analytical Report Of Texas Instruments, Michael Angeletti

Academic Festival

No abstract provided.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (Eras) Protocol Impact, Maeve Hamling

Academic Festival

The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Model works to improve post-operative care for patients in all hospital settings. This presentation will identify the impacts this model can provide with a select set of pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative interventions. Evidence-based protocols are utilized in the ERAS model to offer better quality, patient-centered care. Healthcare systems are always looking to refine cost reduction strategies and limit complication outcomes. This model defines an intervention to change current standards and improve these care efforts for all patients undergoing surgery.

Reinforcing Nurse Leadership Rounding In Pediatric Float Pool Through Use Of A Checklist Tool, Erika Yourous

Academic Festival

No abstract provided.

Reducing Heparin-Related Nursing Errors Through Heparin Reminder System, Carley Simler

Academic Festival

No abstract provided.

Missing The Mark: Uncovering Gaps In Young Adults Investment Knowledge, Sophia Mayo

Academic Festival

No abstract provided.

The Intersection Of Autism And Poverty: Socioeconomic Status Of Adults On The Spectrum, Chloe Skene, Lindsay Doncaster, Joseph Franzini, Riley Kendall

Academic Festival

This study explores the relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and lower poverty status to assist in the understanding of socioeconomic challenges faced by adults on the spectrum. The purpose of this research is to investigate whether ASD is associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing poverty. Using an observational cross-sectional analysis of 2021 National Health Interview Child Survey data, we examined total combined family income and ASD diagnosis. The study included 5,134 participants of various races and socioeconomic statuses aged 2-17, 175 of which responded “Yes” to the question of ever receiving a diagnosis of ASD. The findings reveal …

Augmentative And Alternative Communication And Quality Of Life Across A Variety Of Communication Disorders And Impairments, Olivia Plaia

Academic Festival

This literature review examines the impact of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices on the quality of life of individuals with various communication disorders. AAC encompasses a range of technologies and methods that facilitate communication without the necessity of verbal speech, improving self-expression and social interaction for users. This investigation highlights the spectrum of AAC devices, ranging from low-tech options like printed icons to sophisticated high-tech offerings such as tablet applications and eye-tracking technology. Through a comprehensive literature review utilizing specific search terms related to AAC and quality of life, the research identifies a significant positive correlation between AAC usage …

The Utility Of Teletherapy In The Treatment And Assessment Of Pediatric Speech And Language Disorders, Gianna Cutola

Academic Festival

Access to high-quality speech-language therapy is critical for children with speech and language disorders, yet barriers such as geographic limitations and provider shortages often delay intervention. Teletherapy has emerged as a viable alternative, offering cost-effective and accessible services. This literature review compares the efficacy of teletherapy versus traditional in-person therapy, evaluating post-therapy outcomes, cost efficiency, and family/provider satisfaction. Findings suggest that teletherapy is equally effective, with some studies reporting superior outcomes in teletherapy groups. Additionally, teletherapy proves to be significantly more cost-efficient over time and enhances family engagement by reducing missed sessions. While challenges exist, particularly in receptive language improvements …

Treating Language And Related Factors In Bilingual Children, Tamara Hillman

Academic Festival

Bilingual children with developmental language disorder (DLD) face unique challenges in acquiring both their native and societal languages. This literature review evaluates the most effective treatment approaches for bilingual children with DLD, comparing English-only, bilingual, and non-linguistic cognitive interventions. Findings suggest that while English-only treatments yield the greatest improvements in English proficiency, bilingual approaches support development in both languages, leading to broader linguistic gains. Non-linguistic cognitive interventions enhance attention and processing speed, indirectly benefiting language acquisition. Additionally, phonological awareness training and literacy-focused interventions improve reading skills across languages, indicating cross-linguistic transfer effects. These results highlight the importance of bilingual instruction …

Burnout Rates In School Versus Medical Settings For Speech-Language Pathologists, Nicole Ramundo

Academic Festival

Burnout among Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) is an increasingly recognized concern, characterized by emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion stemming from overwhelming work demands and stress. This literature review aims to investigate and compare burnout rates among SLPs in school and medical settings, focusing on factors such as job satisfaction, caseload size, and resilience strategies. A systematic literature review was performed using the Sacred Heart University library databases. Studies were analyzed based on their design, methodology, and findings, using the PEDro scale for quality assessment. Findings indicate that SLPs in medical settings generally experience higher burnout rates due to larger caseloads and …

Effects Of Emst On Improving Swallow Function In Individuals With Neurodegenerative Disease, Fiona Katz

Academic Festival

Dysphagia, or swallow dysfunction, poses significant challenges for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and Huntington’s Disease (HD). This literature review evaluates the effectiveness of Expiratory Muscle Strength Training (EMST) devices as a therapeutic intervention to enhance swallow function in this population. A comprehensive review of five articles employing the PEDro scale indicates that EMST leads to notable improvements in swallow safety and quality of life. Notably, randomized studies demonstrated a consistent positive correlation between EMST training and enhancements in Maximum Expiratory Pressure (MEP), which is integral for safe swallowing. Furthermore, self-report questionnaires used …

Effective Communication For Intubated Spanish-Speaking Patients In The Intensive Care Unit, Renee Dooley

Academic Festival

No abstract provided.

Naloxone Education: Supporting Patients With Substance Abuse, Jenna Fitzgerald

Academic Festival

In this poster presentation, I discuss the need for accessibility to naloxone, an opioid antagonist that prevents fatal overdoses following consumption of opioids.

Patient Handoff Made Easy With Sbar, Emma Taylor, Abigail Marsh

Academic Festival

No abstract provided.

Evidence-Based Interventions For Prevention Of Falls, Abby Lauer, Kayleigh Sanchez, Abigail Nenna

Academic Festival

No abstract provided.

The Importance Of Using Visual Aids For Reminders In Nursing Practice, Madison Cooper

Academic Festival

No abstract provided.

Trauma Informed Care: Guiding Principles To Reduce Medical Trauma And Increase Patient Trust In Healthcare Professionals, Alexandra Allan, Kayleigh Sanchez

Academic Festival

Medical trauma has a profound negative impact on patients and their families, physiologically and psychologically. Trauma does not discriminate, it affects people of all genders, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds. Trauma informed care is an intervention that can reduce the risk of medical trauma occurring or retraumatization from happening.The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration defines trauma informed care as, “an organizational structure and treatment framework that involves understanding, recognizing, and responding to the effects of all types of trauma”. In order to actually provide care that abides by a trauma informed approach, six leading principles are followed. These six …

The Role Of The Slp In Promoting Feeding Efficiency In The Nicu, Isabella N. Kefalas

Academic Festival

This literature review explores the crucial role of Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) in promoting feeding efficiency among high-risk infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). With ongoing advancements in medical care leading to higher survival rates among preterm and medically fragile infants, there has been a corresponding increase in the identification of feeding and swallowing disorders. Over half a million children in the U.S. are diagnosed with dysphagia annually, highlighting the necessity for early intervention by SLPs, particularly in the NICU, where nearly 40% of affected children have a history of preterm birth. SLPs are essential in conducting thorough assessments …

The Development And Impact Of A Strength And Conditioning Program For Clients With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mollie Story

Academic Festival

No abstract provided.

The Treatment Approach Of Dynamic Temporal And Tactile Cueing On Childhood Apraxia Of Speech, Marykate Ryan

Academic Festival

Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder that impedes children's ability to form correct words despite knowing what they want to communicate. The Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC) method is an effective treatment designed to enhance speech performance in children with varying degrees of CAS. This literature review assesses the use of DTTC by examining its impact on accurate movement gestures, whole-word accuracy, and speech-motor control through a comprehensive literature review of peer-reviewed articles. Methodology included analysis using the PEDro scale, revealing that while many studies had limitations, DTTC demonstrates positive trends in treatment efficacy. Results …