Digital Commons Network^™

Ua1c11/55 Gordon Wilson Photo Collection, Wku Archives

WKU Archives Collection Inventories

Photographs taken by and of Gordon Wilson.

Ua19/16/1 Hilltopper Football Postseason Guide, Wku Athletic Media Relations

WKU Archives Records

Popeye's Bahamas Bowl guide prepared by WKU Athletic Media Relations.

Poly-3-Hexylthiophene Nanorods As A Donor For Organic Photovoltaics, Dharmesh Patel

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Poly-3-hexylthiophene functionalized silsesquioxane nanorods (P3HT-NRs) were prepared by direct hydrolysis and condensation of P3HT-silane precursor using the modified Stöber method. The silane precursor was stirred in a mixture of two solvents in the presence of a base under room temperature for three different reaction times. The size, shape, and morphology of these novel nanostructures were visualized using the transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The composition of the P3HT-NRs was confirmed by FTIR and its silane by proton NMR. Future work will focus on evaluating photovoltaic performance of these nanorods as a donor for organic photovoltaics.

A Case Study Of Internationalization At Western Kentucky University, Minh Dao

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

The study investigates the student levels of satisfaction and engagement with internationalization at Western Kentucky University (WKU). This study surveyed 418 undergraduate students (84.50% domestic and 15.50% international students) on WKU’s main campus to examine how students perceive and interact with various components of the institution-wide internationalization efforts: international-related curriculum and extra-curricular activities, presence of international students and faculty, study abroad opportunities and cross-cultural friendships. Statistical methods were used to analyze student responses. Research findings show that students are more satisfied with international efforts at home when faculty actively engages in promoting international learning in the classroom. Furthermore, students who …

Ua45/6 Commencement Program, Wku Registrar

WKU Archives Records

Commencement program listing graduates.

Ua3/9/7 Fall 2014 End Of Semester Message, Wku President's Office - Ransdell

WKU Archives Records

Email from WKU president Gary Ransdell to faculty & staff.

December Agenda, Wku Graduate Council

Graduate School

Meeting agenda.

Meeting Minutes, Wku Graduate Council

Graduate School

Meeting minutes.

Exploring The Intersection Between Folk And Conventional Medicine In Albany, Kentucky, Chloe J. Brown

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Approximately 60% of patients surveyed (in Albany, KY) practice folk medicine, which suggests that a significant segment of the population may practice folk medicine. Patients typically use folk medical treatments concurrently with conventional medical treatments; while the interaction of these treatments is generally innocuous or positive, folk medical treatments can sometimes be harmful, lead to negative interactions with other drugs prescribed by a conventional medical professional. Since folk medicine and conventional medicine frequently interact, it is important for medical professionals to be aware of and address folk medical practices in a conventional medical environment. In order to better address folk …

Community Scholars Program - Administrative Papers (Fa 742), Manuscripts & Folklife Archives

FA Finding Aids

Finding aid only for Folklife Archives Project 742. This collection contains the Kentucky Community Scholar Program’s administrative papers. The documents include such information as schedules, budgets, grant applications, and other material related to hosting the program.

Spring 2015 Apparel Line: Refined Simplicity, Rachael Y. Misiuta

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Valuing in the billions of dollars, the fashion market is one of the biggest industries in the world and most of that money doesn’t come from selling a few couture pieces to wealthy clientele, but from selling hundreds of thousands of more reasonably priced pieces to the masses. This paper is not meant as a business plan on how to penetrate the market, but rather it seeks to answer the question, “will this apparel line sell?” While creating these designs, the target market was kept in mind and what these potential customers are looking for: simple designs that are easy …

Study Of A Contemporary Diet In One Household In The Yucatan, Ericka K. Hardin

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

The history of the Yucatan has played a major role in the development of the food system of the area and the nutritional status of the population. Originating from an agricultural based diet, which forms the foundation of the traditional Yucatan diet, there has been a recent shift away from whole and natural foods to a more processed and convenient food supply due to the influx of American products and culture. Coinciding with the influx of these unhealthy foods, there has also been a rise in the health problems of the Mexican population such as heart disease and diabetes, both …

Quality Change And Thermal Inactivation Of Escherichia Coli O157:H7 In Non-Intact Beef And Veal Patties By Double Pan-Broiling, Kawang Li

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Escherichia coli O157:H7 (ECOH) may translocate from meat surfaces to internal tissues during grinding processes. This study evaluated the inactivation of ECOH in ground beef and veal by cooking to various internal temperatures (55°C, 62.5°C, 71.1°C, and 76°C). Grounded beef/veal were inoculated with 6 log ECOH and prepared into patties, stored aerobically (4°C, 4 -days) before double-pan-broiling to the internal temperatures mentioned above with a three-minute rest. Samples’ color were monitored, which changed significantly during storage and cooking. Pathogen concentration was measured by plating the homogenized sample on TSA and McConkey agar. The pathogen population was below detectable limit when …

Reaction Rates Of Amino Acids With Derivatives Of The Anticancer Drug Cisplatin, Celia Jess Whelan

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

We are studying reactions of cisplatin derivatives, which differ in both size and shape, with various amino acids. When reaction with DNA occurs, apoptosis is observed, ideally leading to termination of the cancer. Due to the affinity of cisplatin for sulfur-containing amino acids, reaction with proteins may occur prior to access to the DNA, producing a large array of products, which could potentially be toxic to the human body. Both the size and shape of the platinum complexes often affect the reactions with protein targets more so than with DNA targets. By performing reactions of specific amino acids targets with …

Good Intentions?: A Consideration Of Short-Term, Medical Mission Trips, Kayla M. Steele

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

I review the current trend of international volunteer travel with a focus on advantages and disadvantages of short-term (1-2 week) medical volunteer trips and how cross-cultural communication can influence the effectiveness of volunteers. Advantages include making health care available to populations who normally do not have access to care. Disadvantages to trips include a lack of follow-up care and community dependence on outside aid. To increase the effectiveness of these trips, it is recommended that volunteers coordinate with full-time health care workers in target communities and utilize pre-departure training.

Narrative Life Review And Poetry-Writing With Older Adults, Cherita M. Black

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

This thesis explores narrative life review and poetry writing with older individuals, as an alternative to support their successful aging. Four females, ages 66-93, participated in a two-part project. Phase I included: (a) completing a narrative life review, and (b) developing original poetry with the researcher. Phase II included: (a) poetry reflection and (b) completing an open-ended evaluation. Phase 1 results demonstrated four successful narrative life reviews, which composed the poetry-writing sessions. Phase II demonstrated that three out of four participants reported no significant positive influences in the evaluation. Implications suggest social well-being replicated study can possibly assess social well-being …

Wku International Student Teaching Program: Professional, Cultural, And Character Impacts On In-Service And Pre-Service Teachers, Meghan F. Althauser

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

This project focuses on researching the effects of participation in WKU’s International Student Teaching Program on in-service and pre-service teachers. The program’s effect on teachers’ professional decisions made in the classroom and attitudes toward diversity in the classroom were the focus of this research. A mixed method approach of in-service teacher questionnaires and interviews, pre-service teachers interviews, and analysis of blogs/journals from in-service and pre-service teachers while they were abroad was used in this project. The results of the project have illustrated the benefits, as well as the professional, cultural, and character developments of participating in the WKU International Student …

Ua12/2/1 Stressbusters, Wku Student Affairs

WKU Archives Records

Special finals week edition of the College Heights Herald.

Ua80/1 Meeting Minutes, W Club

University Organizations

Meeting minutes for the December 2014 meeting of the W Club Board of Directors.

Rethinking Leadership Training: Relay For Life, Lora Haley Miller

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

The purpose of this study was to examine volunteer training that American Cancer Society Relay For Life volunteers receive in a rural and non-rural county. A qualitative study was conducted by interviewing Relay For Life volunteers from Edmonson County, KY and Warren County, KY. The data generated three overarching themes: Training was inconsistent, there was ineffective quality and quantity of training, and relevance and experience play a role in the differences between training in a rural and non-rural county. These findings offer insight into the ways in which the American Cancer Society and other nonprofit organizations may improve their volunteer …

An Assessment Of What Factors Affect The Average Number Of Caries Seen Per Visit Among Children Visiting A Mobile Dental Unit In South Central Kentucky, Breion Douglas

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Background: Dental caries is the single most common chronic childhood disease in Kentucky affecting 20% of preschoolers, 50% of second graders, and 75% of 15 year olds. Dental caries, also known as tooth decay, occurs when bacteria from salivary glands produce an acid to breakdown food. If this acid is not cleaned off the teeth, it can destroy the tooth enamel. Dental problems can be linked to the inability to pay for dental care (i.e. insurance), limited access to dental providers, and parental inability to take their children to dentists. To help address the issue with tooth decay seen among …

Reach To Teach, April R. Cowles

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Multiple intelligences theory of Howard Gardner are used as a foundation of research in order to explain how educating students of all learning styles should include interdisciplinary methods and creative applications. Primary and secondary research of Howard Gardner’s theory and interdisciplinary methods, specifically the Integration Model and Broad Model approaches were completed. Two different lesson plans demonstrating how to teach students integrating two disciplines while including creativity were generated as examples of thesis. Qualitative research on creativity and motivation identified connection between the two and why interdisciplinary methods enable more possibilities of adding creativity to lessons taught. Advantages include reaching …

Motor Control: Theory And Practical Application For The Youth Basketball Coach, Lucas R. Deckard

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

BACKGROUND: Motor control, learning, and development need to be considered by any coach working with youth athletes. When coaches fail to consider these areas, they may be more likely to create practice plans, which omit the innate physiological and psychological differences between youth and adult participants, lessen the development of sport-specific skills, and may create less enjoyable sporting experiences for young players. PURPOSE: The aims of this literature review were to explore recent scientific literature linking motor behavior/development to application in youth basketball, identify major themes, and summarize these concepts in a manner useful to coaches in this environment. METHODS: …

Intergenerational Service-Learning With Exercise Science Students, Mckinze R. Vowels

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Exercise science professionals often work with older adults to help maintain function and independence. Ageism may begin during undergraduate training, as most have not interacted with older adults. Intergenerational service-learning (ISL) may be a useful pedagogy to facilitate interactions with older adults. PURPOSE: To determine if exercise science students’ knowledge of older adults and ageism are significantly improved by incorporating ISL into an exercise science course. METHODS: Students (n =10) enrolled in Exercise and Aging and from two additional exercise science courses (n = 17) completed pre and post assessments of attitudes towards and knowledge of older adults. Students implemented …

Ua42/3/2 Commencement Program, Wku Glasgow

WKU Archives Records

Commencement program for WKU Glasgow Graduand Ceremony.

Viral Hollywood: How Social Media & Other Emerging Technologies Have Molded The Modern Moviegoing Landscape, Benjamin P. Conniff

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

There’s no denying that the rise of the internet has brought about change in the Hollywood landscape. Fans now use social media, like Facebook and Twitter, to share word-of-mouth about movies both good and bad. In a sense, anyone can use these new “spreadable media” to be a critic. I myself took it one step further and started my own film review blog. I was even published in the College Heights Herald student newspaper for over a year! In gauging my audience’s tastes in social media usage and in film, I have uncovered the fact that the hot-button marketing issues …

Ua12/2/1 College Heights Herald, Vol. 90, No. 27, Wku Student Affairs

WKU Archives Records

WKU campus newspaper reporting campus, athletic and Bowling Green, Kentucky news.

• Voorhees, Jessica. WKU Seeks Reaccreditation Decision to Come Next December – Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
• Holloway, Kae & Trey Crumbie. Fall-to-Fall Enrollment Numbers Decrease
• Brown, Leah. Students Prepare for Finals Week
• Harney, LaShana. Student Government Association Passes Alcohol Resolution During Final Meeting
• Brown, Leah. Social Justice Group Seeks to Educate Students – Coalition for Social Justice
• Editorial Cartoon Fire Safety Statistics
• Ransdell, Gary. Ransdell’s Words on Fire Tragedy – Tyler English
• Parker, Jacob. Holidays Offer Time for Reflection
• Holiday on the Hill Photos – …

Smoking Committee Report, Wku Staff Council

Staff Council

Report of the Smoking Committee regarding progress and delays.

Meeting Minutes, Wku Staff Council

Staff Council

Minutes of December 3, 2014 meeting.

Ua12/2/1 College Heights Herald, Vol. 90, No. 26, Wku Student Affairs

WKU Archives Records

WKU campus newspaper reporting campus, athletic and Bowling Green, Kentucky news.

• Voorhees, Jessica. Veteran Students Adjust to College Life – Soldiers, Chris Parker
• Harney, LaShana. College of Health & Human Services Dean Search to Conclude
• Williams, Kyle. W-K-Upset – Football
• Harney, LaShana. Student Government Association Resolution Supports Amending Alcohol Policy
• Editorial Cartoon Student Publications Dumptruck
• Tree Toppers: College Heights Herald Christmas Gifts
• Laves, Karl. How to Prepare for Successful Finals Week
• Pointer, Alyssa. Toppers Tournament Photos – Volleyball
• Henderson, Andrew. All Spruced Up – Christmas Trees, Morgan’s Fresh Cut Trees
• French, Jackson. Double Feature – Movies
• Jessie, Stephanie. AAMBGA Works …