Journal of Scholarly Endeavor - Slippery Rock University

Journal of Scholarly Endeavor
Volume XII
2012
Slippery Rock University
Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative
Achievement

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Stationæry
Table of Contents
Art
Eli Taylor Blasko (U) etb6822@sru.edu
Barbara Westman (F)
Exhibit p. 14
The Old Slippery Rock Cemetery
Aaron M Moul (U) amm4078@sru.edu June Edwards (F)
Exhibit p. 15
An Investigation in Geoscience Illustrations
Adam James Rak (U) ajrak35@sru.edu June Edwards (F)
Poster Presentation p. 16
Fired Liquid Ceramic Saturated Substructures
Danielle Elayne Jacobs (U) dej6873@sru.edu Ian F Thomas (F)
Oral presentation p. 16
Badlands Working Group „11: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Contemporary Research
Eric D. Charlton (U) edc6264@sru.edu Ben Michael Bires (U) Eli Taylor Blasko (U)
Katherine L. Mickle (F)
Poster Presentation p. 17
Exploring the Boundaries of Blind Photography
Erin Kelly (U) exk2080@gmail.com Katherine L. Mickle (F)
Oral Presentation p. 17
Historical Painters Timeline
Lauren Melisa Demsey (U) lmd1417@sru.edu Eric A. Berdis (U) Garrett A. Birkmire (U)
Heather Hertel (F)
Poster Presentation p. 18
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Biology
Amenable Model for TPI Deficiency Using S. Cerevisiae
John Edward Crellin (U) jec7038@sru.edu Isaac Fischer (U) Stacy Hrizo (F)
Poster Presentation p. 18
Proposal for a New Crustose Red Algal Genus in the Order Gigartinales (Rhodophyta)
Jennifer A Vogt (U) jav9968@sru.edu David M Krayesky (F)
Oral Presentation p. 19
New Insights into the Diversity of the Red Algal Genus Peyssonnelia (Rhodophyta) in the Western
Atlantic
Amanda L. Mator (U) alm1999@sru.edu David M Krayesky (F)
Oral Presentation p. 19
Typifications in the Red Algal Genus Peyssonnelia (Rhodophyta)
Joshua N Christy (U) jnc5545@sru.edu James N Norris (U) David M Krayesky (F)
Oral Presentation p. 20
Oxidative Stress in a Drosophila Model of TPI deficiency
Isaac James Fisher (U) ijf6920@sru.edu Dan Long (G) Joshua Hutton (G) Robert Liu (P) Stacy Hrizo (F)
Poster Presentation p. 20
Chemistry
Tissue Transglutaminase Relationship to 8-Bromoadenosine 3‟, 5‟ -cyclic Monophosphate
Logan Tyler Miller (U) ltm4639@sru.edu Paul J. Birckbichler (F)
Poster Presentation p. 21
Adhesion Analysis of Human Erythroleukemia Cells to Human Lung Fibroblasts
Cheri Denise Dover (U) cdd6536@sru.edu Paul J. Birckbichler (F)
Poster Presentation p. 21
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Communication
NHL Crisis Communication
Carmen Thomas Fortunato (U) ctf8739@sru.edu Katrina Quinn (F)
Oral Presentation p. 22
Class Participation: How We Perceive the Hand-raisers
Emily Rebecca Strickland (U) ers7317@sru.edu James Laux (F)
Oral Presentation p. 22
The Effects of Cell Phone Usage in an Undergraduate Auditorium Classroom
Emily Kay Watson (U) ekw8278@sru.edu Jessica Marie Hixson (U) James Laux (F)
Oral Presentation p. 23
American Eagle Outfitters: Community Relations Case Study
Victoria A. Birner (U) vab8301@sru.edu Katrina J. Quinn (F)
Poster Presentation p. 23
Public Relations Case Study: Employee Relations at Walt Disney World
Daniel Jacob Schumacher (U) djs1122@sru.edu Katrina Quinn (F)
Oral Presentation p. 24
Public Relations Case Study: Community Relations of the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to
Animals.
Rachel Grigsby Edman (U) rge8320@sru.edu Katrina J Quinn (F)
Poster Presentation p. 24
Public Relations Case Study: Oreo‟s Consumer Relations and PR Ethics
Sarah Jane Morgan (U) sjm8863@sru.edu Katrina J. Quinn (F)
Oral Presentation p. 25
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Dissemble
Morgan E. Lambert (U) mel7487@sru.edu Arielle Lilley (U) Carmen Fortunado (U) Tyler Nalesnik (U)
Brett A. Barnett (F)
Exhibit p. 25
Analysis of the Universal Cheerleading Association Media and Community Relations
Rebecca Jo Lowrie (U) rjl3860@sru.edu Katrina Quinn (F)
Poster Presentation p. 26
A Public Relations Case Study: 5WPR Firm
Leah Kennedy (U) lak7208@sru.edu Katrina Quinn (F)
Oral Presentation p. 26
Public Relations Case Study: Fundraising and Awareness for Autism Speaks
Kaitlin Mary Hart (U) KXH4786@sru.edu Katrina Quinn (F)
Poster Presentation p. 27
Computer Science
Kinect for Controlling the Hercules Robot Using Speech and Gestures
Mike S. Hamer (U) smh6273@sru.edu Eric Elder (U) Sam Thangiah (F)
Oral Presentation p. 27
Parallel Computing Methodologies with GPGPU and Implementation into the Classroom
Michael Burtner (U) mdb1678@sru.edu Bryan Learn David Valentine (F)
Oral Presentation p. 28
Dance
When Live Dancers Portray a Movement Story With Film
Emily Grace Kennard (U) egk4019@sru.edu Mary Angeline Regney (U) Jennifer C Keller (F)
Performance p. 28
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Economics
The Influence of Financial Aid on Student Outcomes
Christine Port (U) ctp8877@sru.edu Clark Alan Liebler (U) Frederick Tannery (F)
Poster Presentation p. 29
Elementary Education/ Early Childhood
Reading Comprehension Strategies in Elementary Language Arts Instruction: Mentor Texts for Inferring
Beth Lee Loretto (G) bll1965@sru.edu Christine Walsh (F)
Oral Presentation p. 29
Integrating the Arts into the Elementary School Classroom
Lauren Elizabeth Jarrett (U) lej4047@sru.edu Deborah Wells (F)
Poster Presentation p. 30
English
Handmade Art Book Project
Rachel McCarren (U) rmm3629@sru.edu Shasheena Carroll (U) Mark O'Connor (F)
Exhibit p. 30
So Foucault Walks into a Bar...
Jesse James Robert Jennings (U) jjj2576@sru.edu Cindy LaCom (F)
Oral Presentation p. 31
The Signifigance of Collaborative Slam Poetry
Molly Keegan Kuhn (U) mkk6836@sru.edu Ariel Wall (U) Jason Stuart (F)
Performance p. 31
There‟s a Fire in My Vagina
Michael Chiappini (U) mjc0150@sru.edu Bridgette Powers (U) Rachela Permenter (F)
Performance p. 32
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences
Implementation of the Exercise is Medicine Referral System at Slippery Rock University
Sarah L. Veltre (G) slv3552@sru.edu Allison Carothers (G) Carena Winters (F) Jeffrey Lynn (F) Joy
Urda (F) Kimberly Smith (F)
Oral Presentation p. 33
Impact of a 12 week, Pedometer-based Walking Program at Slippery Rock University
Jeramy Laird (U) jxl8775@sru.edu Rachel Ondrejko (U) Bethany Holes (U) Kimberly Smith (F)
Carena Winters (F) Jeffrey Lynn (F) Joy Urda (F)
Oral Presentation p. 34
Core Temperature Changes in Collegiate Athletes During Pre-season Practices in Hot Environmental
Conditions
Lara Johnson (U) lkj8640@sru.edu Mackenzie M Mclaughlin (U) Katie Niebel (U)
Marketa Schublova (F)
Poster Presentation p. 35
Prevention of Heat Illnesses through Investigation of Dehydration
Rachel Erin Stohler (U) res8692@sru.edu Lauren Christine Miller (U) Cierra Clark (U)
Marketa Schublova (F)
Poster Presentation p. 36
Geography, Geology, and the Environment
Understanding Recent, Rapid Landscape Evolution in the White River Badlands, South Dakota
James John Stevens (U) jjs8369@sru.edu Colten Angus McDeavitt (U) Patrick Albert Burkhart (F)
Poster Presentation p. 37
Precipitation Trends in the Indus River Basin: Insights on the 2010 Flooding in Pakistan
Lisa M. Andresky (U) lma7909@sru.edu Heike Hartmann (F)
Poster Presentation p. 38
Field Experiences as a Pedagogical Tool of Learning, Badlands National Park
Lisa M. Andresky (U) lma7909@sru.edu Patrick Burkhart (F)
Oral Presentation p. 39
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Cold Frames and Wooden Modules with Fabricated Soil for Plant Growth and Propagation
Jordan Beaver (U) jmb7499@sru.edu Ryan Yarington (U) Tailor Houston (U)
Poster Presentation p. 39
History
The Victims of the Waldensian Heresy
Matthew David Howryla (U) mdh8151@sru.edu Paula Rieder (F)
Oral Presentation p. 40
Jennings Environmental Center/ Robert Morris University
Plant Biodiversity on Fabricated Soil
Jordan Beaver (U) jmb7499@sru.edu Valentin Kefeli (F)
Oral Presentation p. 40
Library
Modern Day Slavery and Human Trafficking: The Chains that Bind
Madeline Marie Carson (U) mmc3375@sru.edu Jane Smith (F)
Poster Presentation p. 41
Music
Inside Perspectives on Feminist Mentoring in Music Therapy: Reconstructing and Negotiating Roles
Kristen E McSorley (U) kem5320@sru.edu Nicole D Hahna (F)
Oral Presentation p. 41
Issues of Power and Privilege in Song Lyrics: Implications for Music Therapy
Megan Nicole Neil (U) mnn9081@sru.edu Dr. Susan Joan Hadley (F)
Oral Presentation p. 42
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Parks and Recreation/ Environmental Education
Determing the Need for Challenge Courses for Individuals with Special Needs
Brittany Elaine Spangler (U) bxs2226@sru.edu Jennifer L. Carben (F)
Oral Presentation p. 43
Philosophy
Aletheia and the Way: Exploring a Connection Between and Daoist and Heideggerian Modes of Being
R. Maxwell Spears (U) rms4749@sru.edu Andrew Colvin (F)
Oral Presentation p. 44
A Man‟s World: How Psychological Oppression in the Media and Education Perpetuate Gender
Inequalities
Megan Renee Kuhr (U) mrk4230@sru.edu Katherine Cooklin (F)
Oral Presentation p. 45
Physical Education/Adapted Physical Activity
Effectiveness of Pre-employment Skills Mentoring at Storm Harbor Equestrian Center and Health
Promotion Mentoring of the “I Can Do It” Program on Transition-aged Youth with Disabilities
Janelle Lauren Krantz (U) jlk0131@sru.edu Kaitlin Elizabeth Daly (U) Martha Elizabeth Kemeny (F)
Robert Arnhold (F)
Poster Presentation p. 46
Physical Therapy
The Effect of Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Training on Balance and Walking in Elderly Residents of Assisted
Living Facilities
Tiffany Allen(G) tma2501@sru.edu Frances Shaffer (G) Nancy K. Shipe (F)
Poster Presentation p. 47
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
The Effect of Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Training on Balance and Walking in Elderly Residents of Assisted
Living Facilities
Stephanie Jo Leslie (G) sjl6456@sru.edu Jeremy Miller (G) Nancy K Shipe (F)
Oral Presentation p. 48
The Effect of Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Training on the Berg Balance Scale in Older Adult Residents of
an Assisted Living Facility
Kelsey Grassel (G) kmg7098@sru.edu Stephanie Zaucha (G) Nancy Shipe (F)
Poster Presentation p. 49
Physics
Astrophotography
Tenzing Chougyen Ukyab Lama (U) tcl7229@sru.edu Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 50
Living Off The Land On Mars
Kassandra Rae Nageotte (U) krn2714@sru.edu Katelyn Danielle Levengood (U) Courtney Rae
McClure (U) Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 50
The Foundation of the Natural Gas Debate
Dustin Schrecongost (U) dls4975@sru.edu Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 51
Electro-Optic Properties of 5CB Liquid Crystal
Cory John Dolbashian (U) cjd3832@sru.edu Rizwan Mahmood (F)
Oral Presentation p. 51
Using the Wiimote to Test Collision Experiments
Joseph David Lapkowicz (U) cjb9714@sru.edu Chelsea Jean Benzie (U) Manuel Valera (F)
Poster Presentation p. 52
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Investigating Properties of Circumbinary Planets
Cory John Dolbashian (U) cjd3832@sru.edu Kyle T Wagonseller (U) Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 52
The Expanding Universe
Daniel Lee Arnett (U) dla5503@sru.edu Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 52
Formation of the Type Ia Supernova
Sarah A Dublin (U) sxd5196@sru.edu Kylie N. Lebaroff (U) Krishna C. Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 53
The Formation of the Moon
Zane Oscar Barger (U) zxb1459@sru.edu Jamie Ann Laughner (U) Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 53
Space Elevators: The Future of Space Travel
Corey W Randour (U) cwr4548@sru.edu Alexis K McCowin (U) Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 54
Dwarf Galaxies
Laura A. Machuga(U) lam4908@sru.edu Becky A Wadsworth (U) Mallory K Hidinger (U)
Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 54
Black Holes
Marisa Renee Jendrasik (U) mrj5502@sru.edu Mary Rose Boyle (U) Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 54
Trojan Asteroids
Anna M Timko (U) amt9852@sru.edu Christian P McIlwain (U) Krishna C Mukherjeer (F)
Poster Presentation p. 55
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Water on Mars
Shaina B Sandrock (U) sbs4933@sru.edu Chelsey J Gebhardt (U) Krishna Mukherjee (F)
Poster Presentation p. 55
Theatre
Prophesies, Prophets, and Oracles of Greek Lore
Aniela Marie Schaefer (U) AMS7763@sru.edu Colleen Reilly (F)
Performance p. 56
Introduction and Acknowledgements
Foreword
Greetings! The Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement at Slippery
Rock University of Pennsylvania provides a forum where student achievement in all disciplines are
shared and celebrated.
The Symposium, and The Journal of Scholarly Endeavor, which includes abstracts of every Symposium
presentation, showcase significant examples of student-faculty collaboration, emblematic of the
innovative teaching and learning taking place at SRU. By participating in the Symposium students learn
about research methods in their disciplines, the scholarly process of information dissemination, and the
creative Achievement of exhibiting and performing original work.
Over the eleven years of its existence, the Symposium has yielded important benefits. By providing
student scholars, artists and writers with a chance to present their work in a conference setting, in front
of a critical audience of peers, the Symposium has helped spark enthusiasm for original work in all
disciplines.
The Journal and the Symposium support the mission of the Slippery Rock University Center for Student
Research. Created in 2008, the Center aims to provide any Slippery Rock University student who
wishes to work closely with a faculty member in a research, scholarly, or creative experience with the
opportunity to do so.
Acknowledgements
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
We are very grateful to the following individuals and groups who helped with the 2012 Symposium.
Henry Magusiak of Information and Administrative Technology and Services revised the web form
created in 2009 for Symposium abstract submissions. Mrs. Robin Campbell of the CHES Dean‟s Office,
Mary Ann King, and Terri Wajda are the Symposium‟s institutional memory, providing critical, just-intime
intelligence. The library secretary Linda Newton assisted with scheduling the many Symposium
planning meetings throughout the year. Dean Lindey, Sharon Isacco, and the Printing Services and Public
Relations staff were instrumental in helping us create the Journal of Scholarly Endeavor and the Program.
Deb Schell helped us plan the event in the University Union. Cate Rudowsky maintains the Center for
Student Research web page. We are especially thankful for the contributions of the many faculty in each
of the Colleges who reviewed the abstracts submitted this year.
The 2012 Symposium would not have been possible without the commitment of the Research
Symposium Committee, which meets throughout the academic year to plan the event. The 2012 College
representatives to the Committee are Terri Wajda (Business, Information and Social Sciences); Jodi
Katsafanas, Christine Walsh, and Ethan Hull (Education); Andrew Colvin and Barbara Westman
(Humanities, Fine and Performing Arts); and, Athula Herat and Kim Smith (Health, Environment and
Science). Committee members who contributed this year are Linda Newton, Cynthia Dillon, Albena
Iossifova, Jessica Marshall, and Peter (Nick) Katsafanas (student member), April Longwell, Lynn
Hoffmann, Mary Ann King, Nancy Cruikshank, Pam Frigot, and Cate Rudowsky.
The Deans of the Colleges, Provost William Williams, and President Robert Smith provided support and
resources which sustain the ongoing effort to expand opportunities for SRU students who seek to work
with faculty on research, scholarship, and creative projects.
Most important of all the Symposium Committee would like to thank the student researchers, scholars,
artists and writers, and their faculty sponsors, for presenting their work in this forum and for helping to
establish SRU as the premier university in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education dedicated
to student-faculty collaboration in teaching and learning.
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Art
Exhibit
Stationæry
Eli Taylor Blasko (U) etb6822@sru.edu
Barbara Westman (F)
Communication occurs in reciprocity: it must never be a one-way flow from the teacher to the taught.
The teacher takes equally from the taught. So oscillates, at all times and everywhere the
transmitter/receiver relationship.
-Joseph Beuys, I am Searching for Field Character, 1973
I am interested in the notion of art as a vehicle for producing proactive and inquisitive mindsets within
society or specific societal groups. Strongly influenced by Joseph Beuys and his concept of social
sculpture, I endeavor to produce work that is interactive in nature, an artwork that is manifested with
the purpose of generating a response, which becomes a catalyst for development in a variety of ways, be
it academic, professional, personal, social, etc.
Stationæry is a current project I am working on which reverses the traditional role of educator and
student. I have collected ten artist‟s statements from ten professors of visual art here at Slippery Rock
University who were featured in the Faculty Exhibition in the autumn of 2011. I am presenting each
statement to ten different undergraduate students: three students pursuing philosophy, three pursuing
English, and four within various arts disciplines from other universities. I have asked each student to read
each statement one at a time while viewing the work of that particular professor, giving feedback and
assigning a numerical grade which corresponds to a letter grade that is then stamped onto each
statement using linocut, a traditional printmaking technique. With this piece, I am illustrating the
conception of the artist as an individual who is always under the scope of others and should constantly
evolve in their practice, while simultaneously questioning the true worth of percentages and a letter
grading system within the fine arts.
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Art
Exhibit
The Old Slippery Rock Cemetery
Aaron M Moul (U) amm4078@sru.edu
June Edwards (F)
All across the country, our nation‟s pioneers were laid to rest in old cemeteries that now have
weathered, broken stones and faded markings. The memories of these lost Americans can only be found
in old documents and family stories. As I walk through these cemeteries I wonder about the people
interred there and their significance to the local community and to our country. At first glance, each
stone merely gives the simple facts about the person: name, date of death, and age. As the decades
passed, more spiritual and decorative markings were added, making tombstones more personal to
specific families and friends. The town of Slippery Rock, originally called Centreville, has an old cemetery
located in its community park. Many of the men and women who founded Centreville have been laid to
rest there.
I believe we do not give our ancestors much thought, and each tombstone holds markings that can be
used to discover facts about the lives and experiences of these individuals. There is a rich story buried
with each person in the Old Slippery Rock cemetery, and the mystery of these people drives my
curiosity to learn the history and capture amazing photographs of what is left for us to see. These older
graves inspire my compassion and generate a source of creative ideas based on the important Americans
resting below.
I plan to display an exhibit of photography as a response to the messages found in the Old Slippery Rock
Cemetery. I anticipate creating five to ten 11 x 17” prints relating directly to the cemetery. I will
selectively build and layer my photographs with images based on my research, and I encourage viewers
to learn about the individuals and American history as they personally respond to my artwork.
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Art
Poster Presentation
An Investigation in Geoscience Illustrations
Adam James Rak (U) ajrak35@sru.edu
June Edwards (F)
Diagrammatic representations of natural processes and data have been proven essential to the
communication of ideas. The quantification of large or multi-dimensional data sets requires advanced
methods of pattern recognition between variables. Geoscientists observe patterns and relationships in
quantifiable data to predict trends in Earth processes. For example, one can use the relationships drawn
between different processes like the production of magma at plate boundaries to improve understanding
of tectonic interactions. Along with graphical representations of data there are also diagrammatic
explanations of processes and concepts. Diagrammatic representations of many Earth processes are
often used to generally explain large scale or subsurface systems. Visualizations provide consolidated
representations of complex ideas along with alternative methods of looking at data. The way data and
ideas are presented greatly influence the understanding of this information. Using science based media
helps to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general public. Making visualizations
the central focus of a presentation enables people from a diverse range of backgrounds to understand
the concepts being portrayed. Through concise stimulating diagrams and illustrations of scientific
information, the general public‟s understanding of natural phenomenon can be improved. An important
step in building a positive perception for an idea is displaying scientific tables, graphs, or conclusions
through an artistic lens. This research will investigate aspects of design along with exploring visual
imagery that conveys a specific concept. The combination of visualizations to explain a concept will be
the focus of this study. Design of the data presented will mirror the scope, accuracy, and results of the
investigation. The ultimate goal of this study is to demonstrate that the use of illustrations can bridge the
gap between cutting edge science and public understanding.
Art
Oral Presentation
Fired Liquid Ceramic Saturated Substructures
Danielle Elayne Jacobs (U) dej6873@sru.edu
Ian F Thomas (F)
This study encompasses an exploration of fired, liquid ceramic saturated substructures. The process
operates on the hypothesis that if porous, an object can absorb clay slip and then be burnt away in a kiln
to produce a ceramic product in the form of the previous porous substructure. As there is little existing
research published on this technique, professional consult was sought from artist Marie Weichman and
Professor Ian F Thomas. Per their advice and recommendation, several variables were in question
throughout the course of the study including absorbency of the fabric in question, clay body, shrinkage
of the clay and substructure when saturated, and firing speed and temperature. For the purposes of this
study, the focus was primarily on the construction of three dimensional forms utilizing clay slip saturated
fabric as the substructure. In conclusion, the study yielded a positive result and several forms were
created utilizing this technique.
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Art
Poster Presentation
Badlands Working Group „11: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Contemporary Research
Eric D. Charlton (U) edc6264@sru.edu Ben Michael Bires (U) Eli Taylor Blasko (U)
Katherine L. Mickle (F)
The Slippery Rock University‟s Badlands Working Group is a progressive and fully integrated artistic and
geological experience. As a team of professors and students, we work to achieve common goals of
learning about the landscape through scientific and aesthetic exploration. Throughout our two-week
expedition to and from the one-of-a-kind Badlands National Park, the cross-pollination between the two
fields of study flourished. Side by side, scientists and artists attempted to render the difficult and brutal
Badlands landscape while simultaneously studying the rock formations and trying to figure out how
exactly this impressive land formation occurred. These experiences have afforded us new opportunities
in the approach to our respective fields. The poster will exemplify the interdisciplinary approach taken
by the BWG in our attempts to learn from each other and the land. It will discuss some of the artwork
underway by the artists on the trip as well as touch on the research conducted by the geologists. It will
also show how these seemingly different fields of study are much more closely related than most people
expect.
Art
Oral Presentation
Exploring the Boundaries of Blind Photography
Erin Kelly (U) exk2080@gmail.com
Katherine L. Mickle (F)
Original discovery of photographers with visual disabilities, which is what my research centered around,
was introduced to me at the Society for Photographic Education national conference during the spring
of 2010 in Philadelphia, PA. I am both affected and creatively inspired by the tenacity of blind
photographers so much so that I see it as an opportunity to better understand, or explain, how people
with visual disabilities can still function in a predominantly visual world even though they are living with
what most people perceive to be one of the most damaging physical disabilities. The goal behind
exposing a greater number of people to the increasing community of blind photographers is to simply
question, why? Why, in the 21st century, are we still questioning the capacity and capabilities of an
individual with no sight? Why are artists restricting themselves with the notion of never succeeding
while visually impaired? Having been awarded the Grant for Student Scholarly, Creative,
Entrepreneurial, or Research to fund a project of relative obscurity, I was encouraged to take the
project as far as possible within my time frame. The design for my research consisted of a studio setting
in which portraits were taken of a friend or volunteer while blindfolded or somehow visually restricted.
Additionally, developing of both the film and paper image in the darkrooms were also performed while
blindfolded. Effective usage of photographic equipment proved to be problematic due to a lack of
coordination while being blindfolded. However, an assistant was integral to the beginning of my enlarging
process because of very specific directions and constantly remaining vocal about what movements I
should make. The work that I produced was exhibited at least twice and my supplemental research
continues to give me heightened insight into my own work.
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Art
Poster Presentation
Historical Painters Timeline
Lauren Melisa Demsey (U) lmd1417@sru.edu Eric A. Berdis (U) Garrett A. Birkmire (U)
Heather Hertel (F)
The upper level Slippery Rock Painting class, of Assistant Professor Heather Hertel is submitting a
student and professor collaboration piece that displays a timeline of painters from 1500-2011. Each
student was to locate ten paintings of ten different painters from the various time periods starting with
the 1500‟s and continuing through present day contemporary painters. Specific movements or time
periods were given including: Renaissance, Baroque, 19th Century, Impressionism/ Post Impressionism,
20th Century/ Modernism, and Post Modernism time periods. Every student was to research and
choose ten different artist and no painters were to be repeated throughout all of the students. From
the class list, we have compiled a twenty-five foot long, colorful timeline to display all of the various
paintings and their artists to help educate an audience about specific painting styles that characterize a
time period. Composing this timeline has provided the opportunity for enrolled students to research
and become aware of how painting has changed over time. We are excited to share and reveal our
findings at the Spring 2012 Research Symposium to educate others on art, its evolution over time, and
also time‟s influence on stylistic changes in art.
Biology
Poster Presentation
Amenable Model for TPI Deficiency Using S. Cerevisiae
John Edward Crellin (U) jec7038@sru.edu Isaac Fisher (U)
Stacy Hrizo (F)
Triose Phosphate Isomerase (TPI) deficiency is a glycolytic enzymopathy that causes neurodegeneration,
sensitivity to stressors, and premature death. TPI deficiency is a genetic disease, and it has no known
cure. Only a little about the progression of the disease is known, and that is why it is important to study
the enzyme TPI to understand this serious disease. There are multiple genetic mutations that cause TPI
deficiency in humans. Using various genetic models to study these mutations is an immensely useful tool.
This study focuses on a new model system for studying TPI deficiency: Saccharomyces cerevisiae, or
brewer‟s yeast. Yeast are categorized as eukaryotic cells, therefore, yeast have very similar chemical
processes at a cellular level compared to a human cell. However, yeast are easier to grow and
manipulate for genetic and biochemical assays. This study focuses on the ability of yeast cells to grow
when expressing 4 different TPI mutants. In addition, using a variety of biochemical assays, we can
characterize the stability and activity of the TPI protein in yeast. We expect that Saccharomyces
cerevisiae can be used as an amenable model of TPI deficiency and that differences in the function and
stability of the mutant TPI proteins can be evaluated with this new system.
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Biology
Oral Presentation
Proposal for a New Crustose Red Algal Genus in the Order Gigartinales (Rhodophyta)
Jennifer A Vogt (U) jav9968@sru.edu
David M Krayesky (F)
The Peyssonneliales is a crustose red algal order composed several genera, including the genus
Polystrata. The genus Polystrata is composed of less than five extant species. This red crustose group has
a calcified thallus that is made up of files of cell that are arranged into a mesothallus and two flanking
perithallic layers. The preliminary studies utilizing rbcL sequence data, suggested that the genus Polystrata
has a more restricted distribution than previously reported. This ongoing research demonstrates the
taxon going under the name "Polystrata" in the Gulf of Mexico, based on molecular (rbcL sequence data)
and anatomical data is not part of the genus Polystrata. It is actually an undescribed species of crustose
red algae that has the facies of a Polystrata, but is lacks the characteristic calcification of Polystrata
species. LSU sequence data is utilized in this investigation of the "Polystrata" of the Gulf of Mexico. This
data further corroborates our preliminary studies that the "Polystrata" of the Gulf of Mexico belongs in
the order Gigartinales and not the Peyssonneliales, as is the case with true Polystrata. The relationship
of the Gulf of Mexico “Polystrata” within the Gigartinales remains unresolved.
Biology
Oral Presentation
New Insights into the Diversity of the Red Algal Genus Peyssonnelia (Rhodophyta) in the
Western Atlantic
Amanda L. Mator (U) alm1999@sru.edu
David M Krayesky (F)
Currently, the systematics of the genera within the order Peysonneliales of the Florideophyceae
(Rhodophyta) is not well understood. The Peysonneliales, represents a group of non-calcified crustose
red algae, found in intertidal, subtidal and deepwater localities. Many of the genera in what is currently
defined as the Peysonneliales have been placed into synonymy with Peyssonnelia. Molecular data has
shown that there are many cryptic groups within the Peyssonneliales. These studies have further shown
that Peyssonnelia has a restricted distribution (Eastern Atlantic and Indian Ocean) and is not
cosmopolitan as previously thought. In this study rbcL sequence and anatomical data is utilized to
determine the correct phylogenetic placement of Peyssonnelia simulans. The confirmed geographic
distribution of P. simulans (Western Atlantic) is not within the current distribution of the genus
Peyssonnelia. In this study, we demonstrate that P. simulans is a valid species of the Peysonneliales, but
belongs to a genus that is new to science.
19

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Biology
Oral Presentation
Typifications in the Red Algal Genus Peyssonnelia (Rhodophyta)
Joshua N Christy (U) jnc5545@sru.edu James N Norris (U) David M Krayesky (F)
Peyssonnelia squamaria is a red algae that was originally described by Gmelin in 1768, from a collection
that was acquired by Pallas from the Mediterranean sea. Specific location information for this sample is
not presently known. Gmelin classified this algal as a fucoid algae, namely, Fucus squamarius, then 1842,
it was reclassified by Decaisne as a red algal genus new to science. The new combination of the species
became Peyssonnelia squamaria and is now the generitype of Peyssonnelia. The type materials of P.
squamaria along with the other Gmelin algal collections were thought to be housed in the Saint
Petersburg herbarium. The Gmelin collections are presently accepted by the taxonomic community as
lost as his algal material is not present in the Saint Petersburg herbarium. This represents a large
problem in the taxonomic research that has been conducted within Peyssonnelia and the
Peyssonneliaceae within the last 50 years, as all studies have not looked at the type material in their
revisionary research of the genus or the family. In this study we designate a type for P. squamaria based
on a modern concept of the species utilizing anatomical and rbcL sequence data.
Biology
Poster Presentation
Oxidative Stress in a Drosophila Model of TPI deficiency
Isaac James Fisher (U) ijf6920@sru.edu Dan Long (G) Joshua Hutton (G) Robert Liu (P)
Stacy Hrizo (F)
Triose phosphate isomerase deficiency is an autosomal recessive glycolytic enzymopathy characterized
by neurodegeneration, hemolytic anemia, and premature death. TPIsugarkill is a mutant allele with a
missense mutation (M80T) that causes phenotypes in Drosophila melanogaster similar to that of TPI
deficiency when homozygous or heterozygous with a TPI deletion. The role of Triose phosphate
isomerase (TPI) is well understood as the enzyme that is responsible for the interconverstion of
dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P). The pathology of TPI
deficiency is still poorly understood. Here we examine the redox status of a Dosophila Model of TPI
deficiency via the TPIsugarkill mutant allele in order to better understand the pathology of this
devastating disease. Oxidative stress in common in neurodegenerative diseases, therefore we
hypothesized that TPI sugarkill would have sensitivity to oxidative stress. Supporting this, we examined
higher levels of NAD+, FAD+, as well as increase glutathione levels. In addition, biochemical assays
determined that TPI sugarkill mutant mitochondria are oxidatively stressed. It was also found reductive
stress decreases the behavioral phenotypes of the mutant organism. We then examined the stability of
protein under both oxidative and reductive stress and determined that TPIsugarkill protein levels are
unaffected by the redox status of the cell. This data suggests that reduced activity of TPI causes an
increase level of oxidative elements within the cell. Currently we are determining the role of oxidative
stress in TPI pathology and future work will determine the involvement of DHAP catabolite toxicity in
the pathogenesis of TPI deficiency.
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2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Chemistry
Poster Presentation
Tissue Transglutaminase Relationship to 8-Bromoadenosine 3‟, 5‟ -cyclic Monophosphate
Logan Tyler Miller (U) ltm4639@sru.edu
Paul J. Birckbichler (F)
In this study, K562 cells were utilized to evaluate the morphological and also chemical changes preceding
the introduction of various chemicals into the growth media. The K562 cells, a myelogenous leukemia
cell line, are differentiation-incompetent, programmed cell death-competent cancer cells. The chemical
change that was of interest was the expression of tissue transglutaminase (tTg), tTg covalently modifies
proteins by the formation between an ε-amino group of a lysine residue and a γ-carboxamide group of a
glutamine residue. The expression of tTg is a widely used marker for apoptosis. One chemical that was
of particular importance was 8-Bromoadenosine 3', 5‟-cyclic monophosphate (8-Br-cAMP). The chemical
induced morphological changes as determined by May Grunwald-Giemsa stained cytospin preparations.
The intracellular concentration of cAMP was evaluated using a microtiter plate assay. This study also
analyzed the apoptotic response the K562 cells underwent. Apoptosis is a biochemical process that can
occur in multi-cellular organisms, it has characteristics which include blebbing, apoptotic bodies, and
DNA fragmentation. Particularly, in relation to this study blebbing and DNA fragmentation were
common occurrences with the K562 cells. tTg expression was compared to the formation of stable
apoptotic bodies. Support for the project was provided by SRU as well as an RFP Student Research
Grant.
Chemistry
Poster Presentation
Adhesion Analysis of Human Erythroleukemia Cells to Human Lung Fibroblasts
Cheri Denise Dover (U) cdd6536@sru.edu
Paul J. Birckbichler (F)
The study of attachment between human erythroleukemia (HEL) cells and human lung fibroblasts (WI-
38 cells) is important in developing a model system to determine the selectively of chemotherapeutic
agents on cancer and noncancerous cells. HEL cells were mixed with WI-38 cells to create a simulated
in vivo environment. Normally, HEL cells grow in suspension while WI-38 cells grow adherent. HEL cells
adhered to the WI-38 cells (80%), when the two cell types were mixed. The mixed cellular environment
was analyzed for viability, growth, and adherence via trypan blue exclusion and cell enumeration. The
viability of the HEL cells that grew attached and unattached to the WI-38 cells was significantly elevated
and depressed, respectively. Growth remained constant for HEL cells with and without WI-38 cells. In
an attempt to determine the nature of the cell-cell adherence, HEL cells were grown in chamber slides
coated with and without fibronectin, an extracellular matrix protein associated with WI-38 cells that
plays a role in cell adhesion. After the HEL cells were introduced to the fibronectin-coated plate
approximately 57% of the HEL cells adhered, suggesting that fibronectin was the protein responsible for
adhesion of the two cell types. Dithiothreitol (DTT) was used to disrupt any disulfide linkages, a major
covalent bond of fibronectin, produced during the adhesion between HEL and WI-38 cells. The chemical
did not dissociate the HEL and WI-38 cells indicating the presence of an additional and stronger linkage.
The WI-38 cells that detached when treated with DTT were nonviable, suggesting that HEL cells
reroute WI-38 cell nutrients to increase their own viability.
21

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Communication
Oral Presentation
NHL Crisis Communication
Carmen Thomas Fortunato (U) ctf8739@sru.edu
Katrina Quinn (F)
This case study examines the public relations tactics used by the National Hockey League during times
of crisis caused by incidents that happened during gameplay. The study examines and evaluates how the
NHL handled on-ice incidents that brought negative publicity to the sport in the mainstream media and
the judicial system to discipline the parties involved. The study examines if the NHL represented thier
league and their players appropriately in statements made to the media.
The study also examines how the league attempted to change their image and whether or not it was
successful in doing so. The study highlights strides made in social media and web-based marketing to
help grow the sport. The study also evaluates the NHL's attempt in changing aspects of its game and
image to attract new viewers, but also keep the fans they already had. The NHL is also compared to the
National Basketball Association and their crisis communication.
Communication
Oral Presentation
Class Participation: How We Perceive the Hand-raisers
Emily Rebecca Strickland (U) ers7317@sru.edu
James Laux (F)
This study seeks to investigate the perceptions that students in the same classroom have of each other
based on their willingness to communicate in class. More specifically, it is meant to examine the
relationship between the level of communication apprehension (CA) a student possesses and how it
affects their perception of other students and their class participation frequency and behaviors (how CA
affects the perception students have of their peers and the class participation behaviors a peer possess).
CA will be defined as the avoidance of communication because it outweighs the gain of having to
communicate in a given situation, (McCroskey, 1970). This will be a survey study. A two-variable Chi-
Square Test will examine the differences in the distribution of the level of CA, positive or negative
perceptions, and participation frequency. A measuring instrument will be developed consisting of scales
measuring the perception a student has of themselves when they do not participate, the perception a
student has of other students that participate frequently or infrequently, and a general level of CA the
student has. It is my prediction that my hypothesis, students with high CA will have more negative
perceptions of students who participate frequently in class as compared to students with low CA, will
be supported. In correlation with my first hypothesis, I also predict that students with low CA will have
negative perceptions of students who participate less frequently in class as compared to students with
high CA.
22

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Communication
Oral Presentation
The Effects of Cell Phone Usage in an Undergraduate Auditorium Classroom
Emily Kay Watson (U) ekw8278@sru.edu Jessica Marie Hixson (U) James Laux (F)
Students in today‟s college classrooms have a lot of access to portable technology. Not only is
technology brought into the classroom as a tool, but it is also brought as a communication
device and possible distraction to students. Mobile devices such as cell phones can possibly
harm the integrity of a student‟s learning and ability to focus in the classroom. This future study
will examine how student learning in an undergraduate liberal study course is affected when half
are asked to turn off their devices for the class session. IRB approval will be needed in order to
proceed with the study, since human subjects are being observed. Half of the students in an
auditorium-size class will be asked to turn off their phones and given no further information. At
the end of the class period the students will be given a brief survey about their phone use and
quiz on that day‟s lesson. The survey will be used as a manipulation check and for further
information about the students‟ phone use. This presentation will discuss the future study in
detail.
Communication
Poster Presentation
American Eagle Outfitters: Community Relations Case Study
Victoria A. Birner (U) vab8301@sru.edu
Katrina J. Quinn (F)
American Eagle Outfitters is a clothing retailer with the mission of being dedicated to creating a brand
that offers high-quality, on-trend clothing at affordable prices, targeted to the college lifestyle. Today,
the company has expanded to a number of different brands and international markets, reaching out to
diverse audiences. The project takes a closer look at two of American Eagle Outfitters‟ public relations
focuses, their employee and consumer relations programs. These publics are then targeted in regards
to the organization‟s community relations, which was the main focus of this project. American Eagle
Outfitters (AEO) works to include these publics in their community relations efforts to improve the
environment, help with youth development, along with many other issues that are related to AEO‟s
core mission and focuses. In-depth research is presented, which highlights the company‟s partnerships,
projects, both national and international, and their most recent campaign with Cotton Incorporated. A
comparison between American Eagle Outfitters and Abercrombie is also presented, comparing their
community relations programs. Surprisingly, the two companies are very similar in their efforts, with
only their website materials that vary. The research proves that American Eagle Outfitters has excellent
community relations programs, however the information provided on their website and other areas
online are outdated. These programs are also overshadowed by their other public relations programs.
Suggestions have been made to better promote their programs using social media tools already created
by the organization. The company has come a long way with their community relations programs,
however there is still room for improvement. The ethics of American Eagle Outfitters were also
evaluated using the Public Relations Society of America Code of Ethics, which mainly focuses on the
areas of advocacy, honesty, expertise, independence, loyalty, and fairness.
23

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Communication
Oral Presentation
Public Relations Case Study: Employee Relations at Walt Disney World
Daniel Jacob Schumacher (U) djs1122@sru.edu
Katrina Quinn (F)
This project investigates Walt Disney World‟s employee relations. The project uses communication
practices, research and public relations practices to take an in depth look at how successful the practices
of Walt Disney World really are in terms of its employees (cast members). A brief comparison
between Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando is also presented.
The research performed was done through a variety websites including employee forums, corporate
websites, YouTube, and general websites. Online communication has become essential to employee
relations because it provides quick and easy access for the media, the employees themselves, and the
public. The majority of the websites presented are extremely current. Additionally a personal interview
and an employee handbook for the company provided a look on the inside. The ethics of Walt Disney
World were evaluated using the Public Relations Society of America‟s Code of Ethics which emphasizes
advocacy, honesty, expertise, independence, loyalty, and fairness. The research through all of these
medias shows that while Walt Disney World used to have a grasp on employee relations, they seemed
to have lost it over the years. Much improvement needs to be done specifically with wages and resorts
and hotels. Ethical values also need to be reviewed and inputted.
Communication
Poster Presentation
Public Relations Case Study: Community Relations of the American Society for Prevention
of Cruelty to Animals.
Rachel Grigsby Edman (U) rge8320@sru.edu
Katrina J Quinn (F)
This case study examines the community relations of the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to
Animals (ASPCA). I have used my previous knowledge of public relations tactics to assess the overall
effectiveness of the ASPCA‟s community relations. I have also compared their community relations
program to the North Shore Animal League America‟s program. The research shows the many
community outreach programs the ASPCA implements in order to receive donations and supporters
across the nation. The ASPCA‟s programs and services website was utilized in order to obtain the
research needed to study the ways they involved their community. The ASPCA pro was also used within
the research to study the ways the ASPCA targets professionals within the animal care industry. The
organization‟s pressroom was utilized to find current newsworthy information on the ASPCA regarding
their community outreach programs. The ethics of the ASPCA were evaluated using the Public
Relations Society of America Code of Ethics, which emphasizes advocacy, honesty, expertise,
independence, loyalty, and fairness. The research shows that the ASPCA provides proficient community
relations. They maintain an ongoing relationship with the public through implementing many programs
and contests. The organization stays focused on the protection of animals while also inviting the
community to partake in their efforts to save animals.
24

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Communication
Oral Presentation
Public Relations Case Study: Oreo‟s Consumer Relations and PR Ethics
Sarah Jane Morgan (U) sjm8863@sru.edu
Katrina J. Quinn (F)
This project examines the consumer relations and public relations ethics demonstrated by Oreo by
analyzing two campaigns, DSRL and Shut the Front Door. After evaluating the campaigns, this project
assesses the strengths of Oreo‟s efforts and provides suggestions on how they may be improved. This
project also presents a comparison with the consumer relations efforts of Chips Ahoy!. Finally this
project provides a description of Oreo‟s compliance with the Public Relations Society of America Code
of Ethics. The research for this project was conducted through the use of various websites and online
documents including the websites for Nabisco, Kraft Inc., and PRSA. The research evaluates Oreo‟s
consumer relations both through its campaigns and its online presence specifically on its various social
media sites and its website. The ethics demonstrated by Oreo, and its owner Kraft Inc., were compared
to the values listed by PRSA. The research reveals Oreo‟s impressive consumer relations. However, the
presentation of Oreo‟s corporate information is not supplied in a convenient manner for consumers,
partners or investors. While Oreo still conducts superior consumer relations tactics, opportunities exist
for them to improve.
Communication
Exhibit
Dissemble
Morgan E. Lambert (U) mel7487@sru.edu Arielle Lilley (U) Carmen Fortunado (U)
Tyler Nalesnik (U) Brett A. Barnett (F)
Dissemble is a short stalker thriller completed by five Slippery Rock University students during the
Spring 2011 semester as part of a group project assignment in the Video Production course offered in
the Department of Communication. The movie communicates to viewers visually through a variety of
shots, effects and compositions, as well as aurally, not through spoken lines, but rather through an
instrumental playing in the background which conveys the dark mood of the video. The movie begins
with an establishing shot, introducing the main character. The opening scene is in color to signify that it
is a happier time. The first few seconds show the main character on the phone with her boyfriend,
when things suddenly turn sour. After the opening scene, the title flashes on the screen, and shortly
after the movie goes to black and white, signifying the main character‟s unhappiness. The main
character, visibly disturbed, begins to slowly walk away. A series of later shots further establish the
story, in particular the main character‟s dark side. As a group, we chose this script because we felt that
the story and content would be something completely different from other class scripts, especially the
silent movie aspect (i.e., no spoken lines). Also, the script allowed for a wide range of shots and complex
angles to develop the story. All shots took place on the SRU campus and all on-camera talents are
Video Production students. Scenes were both scripted and storyboarded to assist with recording. Shots
were recorded, either hand-held or with a tripod, using a high definition video camcorder (Cannon EOS
55550 D). Video editing was done with Final Cut Pro non-linear editing software. The total running
time for the movie is 2 ½ minutes, excluding credits and outtakes.
25

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Communication
Poster Presentation
Analysis of the Universal Cheerleading Association Media and Community Relations
Rebecca Jo Lowrie (U) rjl3860@sru.edu
Katrina Quinn (F)
This project examines the media relations and community relations of the Universal Cheerleading
Association. This project will show the different outlets that UCA utilizes when communicating with
their publics and show the use of communication ethics. The project accesses the effectiveness of these
media relations efforts and suggests ways that they may be improved. In addition, presented is a
comparison between the efforts of UCA and the National Cheerleading Association (NCA). The
research was done with the use of the UCA, NCA, and Varsity Brands websites and social media sites.
The website served as a starting point for other media that the companies were involved in. Press
releases, publication materials, special events, and social media were among the tactics that were
studied. Through my research, I found that both UCA and NCA do a substantial amount of media
relations to display their values and thoughts of cheerleading. Both companies represent cheerleaders,
coaches, and parents as well as the cheerleading community to the fullest extent. I found they have
knowledgeable and experienced employees allowing media relations efforts to feel friendly and
informative. In addition, I found UCA uses social media in a different format than NCA. The ethics of
UCA were evaluated using the Public Relations Society of America Code of Ethics, which emphasizes
advocacy, honesty, expertise, independence, loyalty, and fairness.
Communication
Oral Presentation
A Public Relations Case Study: 5WPR Firm
Leah Kennedy (U) lak7208@sru.edu
Katrina Quinn (F)
This project provides an in-depth analysis of 5W Public Relations, a PR firm that focuses on several
aspects of the media industry, including consumer marketing, technology, corporate communications,
health and wellness, lifestyle, fashion, beauty, digital/social media, public affairs, crisis communications
and entertainment. The research presented will focus exclusively on the integrated marketing tactics
that have been implemented by 5WPR for their clients and campaigns. Three methods used by 5WPR
are discussed in detail. The paper will examine the quality and effectiveness of these methods, including
social media tools, media relations, and client case study examples of integrated marketing campaigns
implemented by 5W. The project will also compare and contrast the tactics used by 5WPR with the
tactics of Allied Integrated Marketing. The following information was primarily obtained through 5WPR‟s
official website. Outside sources were also used to gain further insight on the campaigns discussed.
These sources include media publications, other informational web pages pertaining to content
discussed throughout the research paper, and social networking channels such as YouTube. To
determine the firm‟s qualities of honesty, expertise, independence, loyalty, and fairness, the ethics of
5WPR will also be analyzed using the Public Relations Society of America Code of Ethics. After
thoroughly researching the tactics and strategies of 5WPR, it is evident that the company establishes a
modern and well-rounded approach in developing campaigns for their clients.
26

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Communication
Poster Presentation
Public Relations Case Study: Fundraising and Awareness for Autism Speaks
Kaitlin Mary Hart (U) kxh4786@sru.edu
Katrina Quinn (F)
This project examines the fundraising and awareness efforts of the philanthropic organization Autism
Speaks. The project uses communication theories and models of public relations practice to assess the
effectiveness of Autism Speaks communication program, fundraising and awareness campaigns and
suggests ways that they may be improved. Also presented is a comparison between the efforts of
Autism Speaks and St. Jude Children‟s Research Hospital.
This in-depth research was conducted with the use of Autism Speaks and St. Jude Children‟s Research
Hospital websites, more specifically the ways to give pages, press releases, programs, services, activities,
and walk web pages. Fundraising events and awareness events were among the tactics studied. These
websites provide comprehensive and timely snapshots of organizational communication programs.
The ethics of Autism Speaks were evaluated using the Public Relations Society of America Code of
Ethics, which emphasizes advocacy, honesty, expertise, independence, loyalty, and fairness. The research
shows that although Autism Speaks has sufficient fundraising and awareness campaigns, they have too
many campaigns that take focus off of one another and don‟t reach as many publics as they could.
Although the public relations program upholds ethical values of the profession, many opportunities exist
for growth and improvement in the organizations fundraising and awareness efforts.
Computer Science
Oral Presentation
Kinect for Controlling the Hercules Robot Using Speech and Gestures
Mike S. Hamer (U) smh6273@sru.edu Eric Elder (U) Sam Thangiah (F)
We present the Kinect software that was developed for controlling the Hercules robot. This software
allows a user to interact with the Hercules PowerBot research robot from Adept MobileRobots using
speech and gestures. The interaction with the robot is done using physical gestures tracked by the
Kinect's visual sensors and voice commands interpreted by Microsoft Speech analysis of the Kinect
microphone array input. The software interface that we developed provides users with visualizations of
the Kinect sensor data. In addition, a custom user interface has been developed to take full advantage of
motion tracking. The presentation will explain how the software was developed from ground up using
the Microsoft API for Kinect and give a demonstration of the software.
27

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Computer Science
Oral Presentation
Parallel Computing Methodologies with GPGPU and Implementation into the Classroom
Michael Burtner (U) mdb1678@sru.edu Bryan Learn(U) David Valentine (F)
Sequential programming and computing has reached a technological plateau. Engineers can no longer
push the clock speed of a single processor any higher due to physical limitations. In order get around
these limitations, computer engineers have developed hardware with multiple cores. The problem is
that methods to take advantage of these multi-core and multi-processing are not being taught in most of
the academic world. The choice to focus on using Nvidia‟s CUDA technology to teach GPGPU
methodologies was based on cost, availability, community support, and scalability of processing cores.
The standard number of cores on a consumer processor is 2-6 while on a consumer level graphics card
have 480 processing cores. Our intention is to develop a series of modules that consist of lectures and
labs, based on core computer science concepts and theories, and apply them to both sequential and
parallel programming methods. Each module is focused on a single or small related group of principles.
Modules are a designed list of learning objectives, sequential programming lab, and a parallel
programming. They are also designed to produce meaningful and interesting results. Students are
encouraged to look at the differences between how they achieved the goals with each approach.
Students are also encouraged to analyze run time, code complexity, integrity of data, and correctness of
results between the different solutions.
Dance
Performance
When Live Dancers Portray a Movement Story With Film
Emily Grace Kennard (U) egk4019@sru.edu Mary Angeline Regney (U) Jennifer C Keller (F)
This creative research project investigates how to compose a successful dance piece with video
projection. From September to February, I spent approximately three hours per week choreographing,
filming, editing, and rehearsing to create my modern dance technology piece titled “Heavy Lies the
Crown.” I worked with a cast of four women to piece together a six-minute dance. As we developed
the dance with projection, I explored new and interesting ways to have dancers interact with video. In
the results of my research, I found that I could use video to enhance the narrative and aesthetics of a
dance. By adding a different backdrop to the dance, the audience is immediately put into a specific
environment. I found that I could create the illusion of more people being present on stage by using
video. The live dancers interact with each other and also with the images on screen. To create
symmetry between the performers and the projection, the dancers could mirror on-screen movements.
By using rear projection, the dancers could interact with the shadows cast on the screen when one of
them is behind the screen. This shadow play became a critical narrative tool in creating suspense. I also
worked with the placement of the screen and the projector in order to get the desired effect of the
shadows and the live dancers. In February, my piece was presented in the SRU Dance Theatre Winter
Concert, Movement Speaks.
28

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Economics
Poster Presentation
The Influence of Financial Aid on Student Outcomes
Christine Port (U) ctp8877@sru.edu Clark Alan Liebler Frederick Tannery (F)
The current economic environment increased the value of a college degree as many jobs that went to
those without a degree have been eliminated by technological change and foreign competition. As a
response to the higher return from a college degree, there have been an increasing number of students
enrolling in college. With an increase in the number of students enrolling, there is an increase in
demand for financial aid as many who now attend come from lower income groups. In our study, we are
interested in the impact of this aid on overall student retention rates of both freshmen and upper
classmen, as well as the performance while in school. For this study, we will be using data from the
Slippery Rock University database of student records. We will be analyzing, using regression analysis,
how the different types of financial aid received by students affects the student retention rates,
graduation rates, and grade-point average at Slippery Rock University. This study could help evaluate the
impact of financial aid on student performance.
Elementary Education/ Early Childhood
Oral Presentation
Reading Comprehension Strategies in Elementary Language Arts Instruction: Mentor
Texts for Inferring
Beth Lee Loretto (G) bll1965@sru.edu
Christine Walsh (F)
The purpose of this action research study is to investigate the use of mentor texts - books that are
written and organized in a manner that lend themselves to guiding learning - to explore a possible tool
for elementary reading strategy instruction. Mentor texts are texts that are worthy of deep study
(Olshansky, 2008). These texts have been primarily used for writing instruction and have been largely
successful (Zarnowski, 2008).
The specific aim of this study was to assess how the use of mentor texts affects students‟ understanding
of the reading strategies, specifically inferring, and their enjoyment in the learning process. When
inferring, if students fail to link prior knowledge with textual clues, they are unable to discover aspects
of the story that are not overtly stated. By using a model, such as mentor texts, students gain a deeper
understanding of inferring, and I propose they are more effective at applying this strategy. I examined six
students (two above grade level readers, two on grade level readers, and two below grade level
readers) during whole group, small group, and individual application of mentor texts with the reading
strategy of inferring. I first presented a modeled lesson of inferring with a mentor text. Then, students
continued practicing inferring with me in a small group and by themselves with one independent
practice. I compiled the field notes, handouts, and reflections from these applications, as well as notes
and recordings from three interviews (beginning, middle, and end) to analyze for repeating codes. From
this data, I will show the results of student understanding and interest in using mentor texts with reading
strategies. This presentation will benefit both pre-service and in-service teachers by offering them a
resource for classroom instruction.
29

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Elementary Education/ Early Childhood
Poster Presentation
Integrating the Arts into the Elementary School Classroom
Lauren Elizabeth Jarrett (U) lej4047@sru.edu
Deborah Wells (F)
The importance of the arts in elementary school classrooms is often overlooked. Arts programs are
currently being reduced in many school systems, often as a result of lack of funding or high-stakes
testing. Arts integration methods of instruction incorporate the arts into lessons with content that
allows students to continue to benefit from artistic activities. In this project, I conducted a review of
literature with a focus on arts integration techniques used in elementary school classrooms by
examining various articles and electronic resources. The purpose of this project was to produce a
summary of information related to this method that would be beneficial to fellow undergraduate
elementary education majors. My findings summarize the benefits, challenges, and impacts on learning
that occur when artistic activities are integrated with content. A major challenge of utilizing these
techniques is that they can be time consuming in both the development and implementation processes.
However, research indicates that there can be many benefits, including improved academic performance,
increased interest in learning, and the formation of more meaningful connections. Use of the arts can
impact learning significantly in any classroom, but can be especially beneficial in classrooms of diverse
learners. Activities involving the arts allow for adaptations to accommodate students with different
learning styles, background knowledge, and skill levels. Additionally, arts integration activities can
provide opportunities for students to break through barriers that set children apart in the classroom.
For instance, students who speak English as a second language have opportunities to communicate with
peers using a combination of verbal and non-verbal means. The final product of this research is a
summary of literature available on this topic, as well as a collection of online resources that teachers
might use to integrate arts into the classroom.
English
Exhibit
Handmade Art Book Project
Rachel McCarren (U) rmm3629@sru.edu
Shasheena Carroll (U) Mark O'Connor (F)
Together with Dr. O'Connor, Shasheena Carroll and I travelled to New York City to participate in a
book making workshop at the Center for the Book Arts, after which we used our skills in stencil making
and screen printing to create a collection of original handmade chapbooks featuring the work of last
year's graduating seniors. We also toured the independent press Printed Matter, who publishes
hundreds of art books each year. On display will be several examples of art books, along with our
completed project, entitled Les Filles Ecrivent en Or, The Girls Write in Gold.
30

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
English
Oral Presentation
So Foucault Walks into a Bar...
Jesse James Robert Jennings (U) jjj2576@sru.edu
Cindy LaCom (F)
Bars are typically considered noisy places which verge on a chaos nurtured by alcohol and meaningless
chatter. Licentious men contribute to this disorder with their attempts to “score” and patrons use
alcohol to numb themselves from the pains of their personal lives. Bars may seem to perpetuate
mayhem with drunken shenanigans, yet they actually create and reinforce social principles, establishing a
structured field for sociological habits by teaching us how we ought to drink. In my paper, I use Michel
Foucault's ideas as the foundation for my philosophical analysis of the power dynamics in bars, examining
the ways that these institutions reinforce an American drinking ethic. Foucault, a French poststructuralist
theorist, chronicles the genealogy of the French penal system, describing how discipline
shifts from spectacle to a form of surveillance. In Foucault's Discipline & Punish, he uses Jeremy Bentham's
design for the panopticon as a metaphor for society, arguing that people act in accordance with
customary principles, because of their fear of social ostracism, surveillance, and an accumulation of
discursive records which keep us in line, from university transcripts to credit records.
Yet Foucault never actually defines power in Discipline & Punish due to the fact that such a definition
would be relative to the context of the specific culture. Hence, I first work to define power and
knowledge in order to analyze how bars act as panoptic mechanisms. I define power as the influence
one action has over a future act (as a kind of determining factor), for actions create a structured field
for future behaviors. I argue, finally, that bars are not actually areas of disorder and confusion, but
rather, they act as institutions that contribute to the reinforcement of drinking habits, by teaching us
“correct” social, economic, and gendered behaviors.
English
Performance
The Signifigance of Collaborative Slam Poetry
Molly Keegan Kuhn (U) mkk6836@sru.edu Ariel Wall (U) Jason Stuart (F)
As the presidents of the Slam Poetry Organization, we have been trying to revitalize the spoken word.
In the past two years we have shaken the dust from closet poets and welcomed Slippery Rock
University into a world of performance poetry. Although we have resurrected the art of oral verses
through student shows and weekly meetings, we have been neglecting one crucial element of Slam:
collaborative poetry. We would like to not only share a brief introduction on the significance of
collaborative work, but to also give a premium example of it. Together we will demonstrate the true
beauty of a collaborative Slam piece that will fill in the hole of what we were missing. The oral poetry
will be roughly ten minutes long, originally written, and spoken to enlighten the audience‟s need for a
truly beautiful experience.
31

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
English
Performance
There‟s a Fire in My Vagina
Michael Chiappini (U) mjc0150@sru.edu Bridgette Powers (U)
Rachela Permenter (F)
Our performance piece will reappropriate the text of Plato‟s “Allegory of the Cave” from his dialogue
The Republic. This reappropriation involves a feminist rereading of the text, which has traditionally been
seen as a metaphor and foundation of Western philosophy and thought. In an attempt to interrogate
the iconic figures of Plato and Socrates and explore how the text might have ingrained patriarchal and
heteronormative practices into Western thought, the performance will offer a feminist rereading and
alternative. Instead of the classic allegory of slave becoming unchained and leaving the cave of shadows
for the world of light and reason, we instead offer a glimpse of what it might look like to stay in the cave
and interpret the shadows. Similarly, through the reading of texts by women, we will create an
audio/visual metaphor for the reclamation of voices silenced throughout history. Influenced by feminist
theorists and philosophers such as Julia Kristeva and Luce Irigaray, our performance will involve a great
deal of philosophical research and synthesis of ideas to build an audio/visual argument that persuades
differently than traditional arguments. Incorporating visual/audio elements, live readings of texts,
interpretive dance, and audience interaction, the piece will deconstruct patriarchal ideas of argument by
creating a relationship and venue for discussion between audience and performer. The performance will
act as a catalyst for discussion that might be hindered by the reading of a traditional paper. Our
performance seeks a creative alternative to present philosophical and literary ideas in a post-literature,
post-philosophy and post-research world.
32

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences
Oral Presentation
Implementation of the Exercise is Medicine Referral System at Slippery Rock University
Sarah L. Veltre (G) slv3552@sru.edu Allison Carothers (G) Carena Winters (F) Jeffrey Lynn (F)
Joy Urda (F) Kimberly Smith (F)
Introduction: Physical inactivity is one of the biggest health threats in modern society. Leading
authorities on health and wellness have teamed to create a strategy to combat the physical inactivity
epidemic by creating the Exercise is Medicine (EIM) initiative. The vision of the EIM initiative is to make
physical activity and exercise a standard part of a disease prevention and treatment medical paradigm in
the United States. Therefore, the purpose of this project was to implement EIM on Slippery Rock
University‟s campus.
Methods: Collaborations were developed with the Student Health Center to include a sixth vital sign
during scheduled student visits. Students were asked to report physical activity frequency and duration.
Students reporting less than 150 minutes per week of physical activity were eligible for referral to a
trained exercise professional. Students entering the referral program performed a health history, a pre
and post fitness assessment, and six weeks of individualized exercise prescription. Following the
program, students completed a confidential assessment of their experience.
Results: A total of 6,632 students were screened for physical inactivity from spring through fall 2011. A
total of 390 students reported less than 150 minutes per week of physical activity, and were therefore
eligible for referral to an exercise professional. Of the 390, 33 were contacted to participate in the
program. Eight students completed the program, 5 declined participation, 5 agreed to participate, but
failed to complete the initial assessment, 2 were ineligible due to current physical activity participation, 3
did not respond to initial contact, and 10 were on the waiting list.
Conclusion: Slippery Rock is the first known University to successfully implement a comprehensive EIM
referral program based upon professional collaboration between health professional screenings to
implementation by a qualified exercise professional.
33

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences
Oral Presentation
Impact of a 12 week, Pedometer-based Walking Program at Slippery Rock University
Jeramy Laird (U) jxl8775@sru.edu Rachel Ondrejko (U) Bethany Holes (U)
Kimberly Smith (F) Carena Winters (F) Jeffrey Lynn (F) Joy Urda (F)
Purpose: To determine the impact of a 12 week, pedometer-based walking program on physical
activity levels, motivation for physical activity and barriers to physical activity. Methods: After signing
an informed consent, participation waiver, and research questionnaire, 232 participants were provided a
free pedometer and walking log. Participants were required to electronically submit their steps on a
weekly basis and complete a post-questionnaire at the end of the program. Results: Participants did
not significantly increase their step counts from week 2 (49,472.95+35565 steps) to week 12
(52,286.50+39930 steps) (p=0.127), however, 95% self-reported that they were more aware of their
physical activity. Furthermore, the 120 participants who completed the post-questionnaire self-reported
the following outcomes (Table 1):
SELF-REPORTED OUTCOMES Percentage N
More motivation to continue physical activity 83% n=99
More energy 64% n=77
Higher self esteem 54% n=65
More productivity at work/school 48% n=57
Loss of Body Weight 35% n=42
Table 1. Self-reported outcomes of the 12 week walking program.
Participants also reported the following motivators and barriers to achieving physical activity during the
program (Table 2):
MOTIVATORS Percentage N BARRIERS Percentage N
Increase physical activity 76% n=91 Lack of time 65% n=78
Increase energy 55% n=66 Bad weather 21% n=25
Feel better about self 54% n=65 Lack of energy 15% n=18
Reduce stress 45% n=54 Lack of motivation 14% n=17
Lose weight 42% n=50 Lack of priority 11% n=13
Table 2. Self-reported motivators and barriers to physical activity.
Conclusion: Although participants did not significantly increase their weekly steps, 95% of participants
reported that they were more aware of their physical activity after participating in this program. The
results of this study, including the examination of self-perceived motivators and barriers, will aid the
investigators in planning and implementing future programs.
34

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences
Poster Presentation
Core Temperature Changes in Collegiate Athletes During Pre-season Practices in Hot
Environmental Conditions
Lara Johnson (U) lkj8640@sru.edu Mackenzie M Mclaughlin (U) Katie Niebel (U)
Marketa Schublova (F)
Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine how male collegiate soccer athletes regulate
their core body temperatures during intense pre-season conditioning on different playing surfaces, such
as artificial turf and natural grass, in a hot, humid environment. The secondary purpose was to identify
the relationship between environmental conditions, heart rate, water intake, body fat, and core
temperature. The data collected from this study will help to understand heat illness in the future.
Subjects: The subjects of this study were 30 male collegiate soccer players. Soccer players were chosen
because they run for long periods of time in a hot, humid environment. This team was chosen because
they practice on artificial turf, which deflects the heat from the sun to the players running on it, and
grass, which partially absorbs the sun waves. Methods: Measurements of body density, body weight,
core temperature, heart rate, environmental conditions, and fluid intake were taken over the course of
this study. Body density was measured using underwater weighing before the start and at the end of
camp to assess changes. Body weight was also measured before and after each practice to prevent heat
illness. Every 15 minutes (±2 minutes) core temperature, heart rate, and environmental conditions were
monitored. Core temperature was monitored using a CorTemp Sensor capsule swallowed prior to
practice. Athletes‟ heart rates were monitored using a Polar HR Chest Belt. Environmental conditions
were tracked using the Extech HD550 digital psychrometer which measured the relative humidity, wet
bulb globe temperature, and ground surface temperature. Fluid intake was monitored for each
participant during practices. These data were collected for four days during the pre-season camp.
Results and Conclusion: Results and conclusions will be provided after final analysis of the data.
35

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences
Poster Presentation
Prevention of Heat Illnesses through Investigation of Dehydration
Rachel Erin Stohler (U) res8692@sru.edu Lauren Christine Miller (U) Cierra Clark (U)
Marketa Schublova (F)
Introduction: There are numerous occurrences of heat related illnesses and/or deaths each year at the
start of college and high school athletes‟ pre-seasons. Fortunately these are all 100% preventable if the
proper care and knowledge is provided. Attributing factors include internal and external conditions with
dehydration being the main contributing factor. Dehydration is caused by inadequate fluid intake and
excessive fluid loss. Exertional heat illnesses begin to develop when dehydration exceeds 3% of body
weight. The National Athletic Trainers‟ Association recommends that fluid replacement should
approximate sweat and urine losses, and dehydration should be maintained at less than 2% body weight
reduction. The purpose of this study was to investigate if body weight loss is an adequate measure for
dehydration. The secondary purpose of this study was to investigate if body mass has an effect on body‟s
dehydration during physical activities. Subjects: Subjects for this study were collegiate male soccer
players 18-22 years old. Male collegiate soccer players were chosen because soccer is an aerobic sport
that practices in a hot humid environment on different types of playing surfaces. Methods: The study
investigated what factors contribute to dehydration during pre-season practice and competition. The
variables measured during practice included urinalysis, body composition, fluid intake, and environmental
conditions. Each subject‟s body composition was evaluated prior and after pre-season camp to
investigate possible changes. Weigh-ins were conducted in the athletic training room before and after
each practice. Urinalysis data were collected to evaluate subjects‟ dehydration prior and after practices.
This was performed by having the athletes dispose of urine specimen at the beginning and end of
practices. The urine specimen‟s specific gravity was determined by the use of a digital refractometer.
Results and conclusion: Results of the study will be provided after final analysis of data.
36

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Geography, Geology, and the Environment
Poster Presentation
Understanding Recent, Rapid Landscape Evolution in the White River Badlands, South
Dakota
James John Stevens (U) jjs8369@sru.edu Colten Angus McDeavitt (U) Patrick Albert
Burkhart (F)
The White River Badlands are an intensely sculpted landscape on the Northern Great Plains. Castles of
precipitous ridges and steep ravines are incised into Mesozoic bedrock and exposed along a cliff band
called the Wall. Detritus from the eroding highlands has formed a sloping apron along the base of the
cliffs within the last 4,000 years. Within the last 1,000 years, the pediments have been dissected by
streams into sod tables, or meter scale turf top mesas.
The radiocarbon dated paleosols within the sod tables hold clues to environmental conditions, which
both constrain the timing of soil formation and reveal rapid recent landscape evolution. Our original
hypothesis suggested that pediments formed along the castles became subsequently incised by streams
into sod tables, and that this sequence repeated itself several times. We now recognize a single incision
event by streams between 900 and 570 RCYBP, forming the sod tables. Radiocarbon dates reveal that
intervals of soil formation occurred ca. 3600, 2400, 1800, 1200, and 900 RCYBP. Other investigators
working with eolian sediments found intervals of soil formation around 3600, 2600, and 1400 RCYBP,
giving strong confidence to these intervals of landscape stability and climate favorable to soil formation.
By measuring the depth of incision between sod tables, and knowing the uppermost paleosol age limits
how much time has passed since incision began, we calculated erosion rates. Rapid vertical incision of
the pediments has been progressing at 2-4 cm annually, while lateral retreat of the stream channels
banks ranges between 1-2 cm/year. The question of what could be capable of causing the abrupt incision
into the pediments points towards climate change. We are now examining literature for evidence
reported in other settings to shed light on what triggered this event.
37

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Geography, Geology, and the Environment
Poster Presentation
Precipitation Trends in the Indus River Basin: Insights on the 2010 Flooding in Pakistan
Lisa M. Andresky (U) lma7909@sru.edu
Heike Hartmann (F)
The Indus River Basin is prone to severe flooding due to the topography of the area and heavy monsoon
rainfall. Flooding occurred in 1973, 1992, 2006, and most recently, 2010. The impact of the flooding of
2010 was the worst ever recorded in Pakistan. The official death toll is 1,802 people, whereas the
number directly affected by the flooding is estimated to over twenty-million. The Indus has its source in
the Himalayas, and flows southwest until reaching the Arabian Sea. Due to the topography, the Indus
and its tributaries carry a high sediment load. The channelizing of the rivers has led to significant silt
buildup and therefore, flooding due to a decrease in the carrying capacity of water in the channel.
Severely affected regions of the 2010 flood were located in the northwestern mountains, the southern
lowlands, and central Pakistan. The research question of this project is: Can we detect significant
positive precipitation trends in the Indus River basin? In order to identify significant precipitation trends,
monthly precipitation data was obtained from the Global Precipitation Climatology Centre. The data
spans from 1986 to present. Lag-1 autocorrelation coefficients were calculated for each of the time
series for both annual and monsoonal (July-September) precipitation. If the calculated lag-1
autocorrelation coefficients were significant at the 5% level, the time series was pre-whitened prior to
analysis. Then, the Mann-Kendall trend test was applied to determine whether precipitation trends were
significant. We detected significant positive trends as well as high precipitation totals in 2010 in the
mountainous areas of the northwestern and eastern Indus River Basin. These positive precipitation
trends have been contributing to an increase in frequency and severity of flooding. If these trends
persist, people need to be prepared for higher runoff in the future.
38

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Geography, Geology, and the Environment
Oral Presentation
Field Experiences as a Pedagogical Tool of Learning, Badlands National Park
Lisa M. Andresky (U) lma7909@sru.edu
Patrick Burkhart (F)
In order to gain a greater understanding of the culture, geological processes, and overall setting of a
diverse landscape, a joint expedition of art and geology was lead by Slippery Rock University professors,
Patrick Burkhart and Katherine Mickle in May of 2011 to Badlands National Park, South Dakota. The
experiences of field work and collaboration between students of varied backgrounds improved skills,
such as the ability to question, observe, critically analyze, interpret, and discuss the environment. These
skills are key components of scholarly success and can be developed by gaining familiarity with the way
students think and derive ideas.
The geology of Badlands National Park and the evolution of the landscape are an ongoing research
endeavor that combines science, art, and personal growth. One particular goal of the project involved
collecting observations, notes, and sketches in a field notebook. By developing questions pertinent to
the surrounding environment, the students engaged in the scientific process. Exploring geology first-hand
in the field allowed students to visualize the processes of erosion and deposition by examining the
results of such processes. Drawing techniques were also presented to students struggling to accurately
recreate the landscape through art. Reconstructing the landscape of the Badlands by hand immediately
entails a more thorough examination of the details and features present in the environment. Paying
attention to details is another skill relevant to both the sciences and arts. Gaining skills by field
experience is an important step in academic growth, which is a process that many undergraduate
students may lack. Fortunately, undergraduate research opportunities exist for students to gain a
worldly view and appreciation of the scientific process. The field experiences from Badlands National
Park have enriched both the scientific, as well as artistic and personal lives of the participants.
Geography, Geology and the Environment
Poster Presentation
Cold Frames and Wooden Modules with Fabricated Soil for Plant Growth and Propagation
Jordan Beaver (U) jmb7499@sru.edu Ryan Yarington (U)
Tailor Houston (U)
Sustainable design works with nature in respect to flows and cycles of nutrients and energy. The
Research and Remediation Site, Jennings Environmental Education Center, Slippery Rock, hosts
experimentation in acid mine drainage remediation. In addition, fabricated soil plots demonstrate
biological cycles restoration. Willow and poplar trees grown in these plots provide materials for
bioregenerative architecture. We used trunks of young trees for the formation of cold frame walls.
Arches for the cold frames were created from one year old poplar twigs. The cold frames were filled
with fabricated soil. Rooted willow cuttings and American chestnut seedlings were planted. The main
idea to be discussed is the use and re-use of biological material for regenerative wood construction.
This project was sponsored by the Slippery Rock Rotary Club. We also built wooden modules filled
with fabricated soil for use in the construction of green roofs. Green roofs demonstrate the
permaculture principle of working with nature through water and energy conservation.
39

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
History
Oral Presentation
The Victims of the Waldensian Heresy
Matthew David Howryla (U) mdh8151@sru.edu
Paula Rieder (F)
In this paper, I argue that the medieval heretical group known as the Waldensians were accused of
heresy because of timing. My argument is based on a comparison of the Waldensians and the
Franciscans utilizing a variety of medieval texts. Both groups were founded by a charismatic leader who
gave up his worldly possessions to follow a life similar to the apostles. By giving up their possessions,
both men gained a following among the urban poor. After establishing themselves, both groups sought
papal backing to preach in order to legitimize their message and both groups preached against another
heretical sect known as the Cathars. The Franciscans gained papal backing while the Waldensians did
not. The difference arose from the timing of their requests. Because the Waldensians came earlier, the
Church had not yet come to perceive the Cathars as a threat. Consequently, the Waldensians received
only limited permission to preach which was later withdrawn completely. Eventually, the group was
condemned as heretical because of their unauthorized preaching. The Franciscans received strong papal
backing and eventually played a fundamental role in the Catholic Church‟s battle against heresy. By
comparing the Waldensians to the Franciscans, this paper shows that it was the difference in timing that
allowed one group to gain favor and flourish while the other was condemned as heretical.
Jennings Environmental Center/ Robert Morris University
Oral Presentation
Plant Biodiversity on Fabricated Soil
Jordan Beaver (U) jmb7499@sru.edu
Valentin Kefeli (F)
Wild plants were collected from cold frames filled with fabricated soil in the Research and Remediation
Site at Jennings Environmental Education Center in Slippery Rock, PA. The cold frames were established
in July of 2011. Wild plants grew from July and were collected in October and November, 2011. The
wild flora which surrounded the cold frames was also investigated. Soil produced by natural processes
is a non-renewable resource. The Fabricated Soil Research Project is an attempt to create soil
comparable to that produced naturally by mixing the necessary components manually. In the Project at
Jennings Environmental Education Center, four cold frames were constructed in late spring 2011 and
filled with Fabricated Soil. They were left for the summer to see what plants, if any, would take root.
When I joined the team in the fall my first task was to pull the weeds from the cold frames and plant
chestnuts surrounded by willows. Dr. Valentin Kefeli and I then took the plants to park rangers Wil
Taylor and Eric Best at Jennings for help with the identification of the plants. We were interested to
determine the biodiversity potential of Fabricated Soil and if the plants to initially take root were native
or invasive species. We found that, of the plants we were able to identify, most were non-native and of
different species than those that immediately surrounded the cold frames.
The design of sustainable systems respects the natural flows and cycles of energy and nutrients. One of
the goals of the Fabricated Soil Research Project is to avoid the overuse of chemical fertilizers, pesticide
control and genetically modified crops. Therefore, our investigation of plant biodiversity in Fabricated
Soil aids the process of protecting and regenerating soil.
40

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Library
Poster Presentation
Modern Day Slavery and Human Trafficking: The Chains that Bind
Madeline Marie Carson (U) mmc3375@sru.edu
Jane Smith (F)
Many consider slavery a past institution whose roots withered at the end of the nineteenth century. This
is not the case. More slaves exist today than at the height of the transatlantic slave trade. I will
concentrate on slavery‟s many forms and misconceptions due to our modern society. According to
Benjamin Skinner, author of A Crime So Monstrous, there are currently twenty seven million slaves in the
world and this is a conservative estimate. Why then, do we know so little about this modern atrocity?
My presentation will focus on slavery‟s many forms and misconceptions about forced labor in our
modern society. Modern day slavery includes manual labor, prostitution and forced labor in a military
organization. With such a vast array of trafficking sources, society often confuses and even glorifies the
idea of forced labor. This is where the second part of my presentation comes to fruition, with critiques
regarding media sources such as Pretty Women, recent episodes of CSI, and a number of printed
sources. Finally, my presentation is summarized with my plans to organize a walk against human
trafficking on campus and my continuing participation in advocacy sessions to alert our legislators of this
tragedy. My greatest wish is to alert my peers in the honors program about an overlooked and
unnecessary evil of modern society. It is a global atrocity which affects legislation, ideologies, monetary
wealth, human morality and the fate of millions.
Music
Oral Presentation
Inside Perspectives on Feminist Mentoring in Music Therapy: Reconstructing and
Negotiating Roles
Kristen E McSorley (U) kem5320@sru.edu
Nicole D Hahna (F)
Music therapy literature has explored the need for supervision for clinical development of students and
clinicians; however, little research has been conducted on the use of mentoring within music therapy
clinical practice. The purpose of this project was threefold: to explore (a) the phenomenon of feminist
mentoring in music therapy, (b) the effects that feminist mentoring had on both the mentor and the
mentee, and (c) how feminist mentoring might contribute to the development of a model for use with
future music therapy students. A phenomenological approach was used to study the experiences of the
participants regarding feminist mentoring. Five semi-structured, in-depth interviews occurred over the
course of six months with each interview lasting between a half hour and an hour. Analysis of the
processing meeting transcripts, analytic memos, and an unpublished manuscript on the topic were used
to determine meaning units and categories related to the phenomenon being explored. The authors
used member checking, inter-rater reliability, and triangulation of data (interviews, analytic memos, and
an unpublished manuscript written by one of the authors) to address issues of trustworthiness and
dependability. Results of the data analysis and a discussion of the ways in which feminist mentoring can
be used within music therapy education and clinical practice are explored, including limitations of this
study and suggested areas for future research.
41

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Music
Oral Presentation
Issues of Power and Privilege in Song Lyrics: Implications for Music Therapy
Megan Nicole Neil (U) mnn9081@sru.edu
Dr. Susan Joan Hadley (F)
Music therapists work with people of all ages, abilities, races, genders, sexual orientations, religious
groups, etc. When music therapists bring music into a session with a client, they may not always take
into account how this music reinforces certain groups in society, while marginalizing others. This
research examines ways in which power and privilege are reinforced by many of the songs we select to
use in music therapy. My research explores the lyric content of songs that are frequently used in music
therapy and the impact that these lyrics may have on clients from marginalized groups. A survey was
sent out to 2012 professional music therapists to ascertain the most frequently used songs for each agegroup
(children under 6, children 6-10, children 11-15, adolescents 16-19; adults 20-35, adults 36-50,
adults 51-65, and older adults) and to ascertain the demographics of music therapists in the US and the
demographics of the clients with whom music therapists work. From this survey, the lyric content of the
five most frequently used songs in each age group were analyzed using qualitative research software
Hyperresearch. The lyric content was analyzed from the perspectives of ability, gender, race, sexual
orientation, and religion. In order to check for the validity of the analysis, the results were sent to
scholars in music therapy, gender studies, critical race studies, and disability studies, and who are from
the various marginalized groups being explored.
42

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Parks and Recreation/ Environmental Education Oral Presentation
Determing the Need for Challenge Courses for Individuals with Special Needs
Brittany Elaine Spangler (U) bxs2226@sru.edu
Jennifer L. Carben (F)
The following study focused on research that was gathered to support the need for adapted challenge
courses, where people with special needs can experience individual success as part of a team through
experiential-based learning. Two-hundred and sixty people took part in this study. Two-hundred and
forty six people were surveyed and 14 individuals took part in interviews. These participants were from
all of the United States. States represented in this study include: California, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois,
Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. The researchers viewed the significance of conducting
this project in terms of individuals with special needs and being able to open up the opportunity for
these individuals to participate in challenge course activities to the same extent as persons without
special needs. Currently, there is research that supports the need for experiential-based challenge
courses and the positive effects those challenge courses have on the individuals who take part in their
activities. However, the project focused on determining a need for challenge courses for individuals
with special needs. In this field of study, various things are changing with new developments and
discoveries, and this project was a way to determine the need for further development in the special
needs field. According to Fulton (1999), now is the time for inclusion in challenge courses. There are
universal concepts that can be incorporated into every challenge course activity and courses can be
constructed so that they are accessible to everyone (Fulton, 1999). Fulton (1999) continues to state
that there are 54 million disabled people in the United States. Therefore, if the entire world is
examined as a whole, there are billions of people with special needs. Lastly, research from Swann and
Walsh (2001) has indicated the need for challenge programs, where all (people with and without special
needs) people can participate and work together cooperatively. Along with many other findings, most
importantly, the research findings from this study suggest that there is a need for challenge courses for
individuals with special needs.
43

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Philosophy
Oral Presentation
Aletheia and the Way: Exploring a Connection Between and Daoist and Heideggerian
Modes of Being
R. Maxwell Spears (U) rms4749@sru.edu Andrew Colvin (F)
In this paper I attempt to flush out a connection between Martin Heidegger's conception of truth as
aletheia (άλήθεια) and the emphasis placed on deference in Daoism. For Heidegger, the modern
correspondence theory of truth marked a departure from a more fundamental understanding of truth
held by the ancient Greeks. This notion of truth, which Heidegger terms aletheia or “unconcealment,”
was crucial if one was to return to and comprehend the core issues of philosophy. This early Greek
conception of truth, I will argue, offers an interesting point of comparison with ideas developed by
Daoist philosophers in ancient China. For both, there is an emphasis placed on deferential modes of
existence which advocate a responsive rather than domineering relationship with the world. The
emphasis that Daoism places on deference as a life-style is found in receptive modes of acting (wuwei
無 為 ), knowing (wuzhi 無 知 ), and desire (wuyu 無 欲 ) referred to as the wu-forms. Translated by David
Hall and Roger Ames as noncoercive action, unprincipled knowing, and objectless desire, these wu-forms
constitute different human comportments that allow one to live a more flourishing life. By underscoring
similarities between the notion of alethia and the ideal of deference embodied in these wu-forms, I also
attempt to show that Heidegger and Daoism both maintain a similar conception of the world as process,
and similar suspicion of language.
44

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Philosophy
Oral Presentation
A Man‟s World: How Psychological Oppression in the Media and Education Perpetuate
Gender Inequalities
Megan Renee Kuhr (U) mrk4230@sru.edu
Katherine Cooklin (F)
Feminist philosophers Sandra Lee Bartky and Marilyn Frye both identify psychological oppression as one
of the main causes that keep women in submissive roles where men dominate them politically and
economically. Bartky identifies psychological oppression as a situation where an oppressed individual
internalizes messages from society that tell the oppressed that they are not as valuable as other
members of society. Psychological oppression is both institutionalized and systematic. The effect of
psychological oppression makes the dominated believe that they are inferior and makes them feel that
they are powerless because they are unable to identify exactly whom is oppressing them. I argue that
the media psychologically oppresses women at a very young age through the tools of stereotyping,
cultural domination, and sexual objectification. This socio-cultural system seduces women into accepting
a devalued status in society and accepting this status as the norm. The public education system in turn,
fails to address psychological oppression in the area of sexual education, and the result is often that
women are both sexually active and sexually ignorant. In order to break the cycle of oppression created
by the media and public education, I draw upon the ideas of feminist philosopher Susan Moller Okin.
Okin suggests that the public and private spheres need to be restructured so that women are more
represented in the public sphere. If the public sphere was restructured so that women would be able to
compete for positions of power and influence within the government and media corporations, then the
female perspective could be more integrated into the media and education systems. The psychological
oppression of women would be severely diminished by the increase of women in positions of power.
45

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Physical Education/Adapted Physical Activity
Poster Presentation
Effectiveness of Pre-employment Skills Mentoring at Storm Harbor Equestrian Center and
Health Promotion Mentoring of the “I Can Do It” Program on Transition-aged Youth with
Disabilities
Janelle Lauren Krantz (U) jlk0131@sru.edu Kaitlin Elizabeth Daly (U) Martha Elizabeth
Kemeny (F) Robert Arnhold (F)
While research points to mentoring as an effective change mechanism in youth, little known research
focuses on the comparative effectiveness of different mentoring modalities over 10-weeks for 1 hour a
week for transition-aged youth with disabilities, aged 14-21 years. Slippery Rock University student
researchers compared the outcomes from equine-assisted pre-employment skills mentoring at Storm
Harbor Equestrian Center to the health promotion mentoring of the I Can Do It (ICDI) physical activity
and nutrition program at the YMCA to determine the relative effectiveness for youth with disabilities.
Seventeen youth with disabilities participated in pre-vocational skill building program and 11 youth
participated in the ICDI program. A comparison of pre and post Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor
Proficiency (BOT2) and Brockport fitness scores for the entire group revealed a significant improvement
in the total scores for motor proficiency, and flexibility (p

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Physical Therapy
Poster Presentation
The Effect of Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Training on Balance and Walking in Elderly
Residents of Assisted Living Facilities
Tiffany Allen tma2501@sru.edu (G) Frances Shaffer (G) Nancy K. Shipe (F)
The introduction of the Nintendo Wii (Wii) has resulted in physical therapists utilizing this technology
for training balance in patients in orthopedic, rehabilitation, and pediatric populations. This project
investigated the effects of standing balance training utilizing the Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Platform on
balance and walking abilities of older adults residing in an assisted living facility (ALF). Forty-one
participants, 6 males, 35 females, mean age 86.7 years (range 67-97, 5.9) from 2 ALFs entered the
study. All participants ambulated independently with 75.6% (n=31) reporting the use of an assisted
device. Subjects were trained under the direction and supervision of 1 st year physical therapy students.
Training consisted of 15 minutes of dynamic balance activities while standing on the Wii Fit balance
platform, conducted twice weekly for 8 weeks. Gait speed was evaluated with the 10 Meter Walk Test
(10 MWT) both at a self-selected pace and a fast pace. Previous research has linked the 10 MWT
directly to fall risk, which is a current healthcare concern among elderly individuals. Gait speed is
categorized into household ambulator (

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Physical Therapy
Oral Presentation
The Effect of Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Training on Balance and Walking in Elderly
Residents of Assisted Living Facilities
Stephanie Jo Leslie sjl6456@sru.edu (G) Jeremy Miller (G) Nancy K Shipe (F)
Description: This project investigated the effects of standing balance training utilizing the Nintendo Wii
Fit Balance Platform on balance and walking abilities of older adults residing in an assisted living facility
(ALF).
Summary: Forty-one participants, 6 males, 35 females, mean age 86.7 years (range 67-97 ± 5.9) from 2
ALFs entered the study. Training consisted of 15 minutes of dynamic balance activities while standing on
the Wii Fit balance platform conducted twice weekly for 8 weeks. Balance was assessed with the Berg
Balance Scale (BBS) and walking speed was evaluated with the 10 Meter Walk Test (10 MWT) both at a
self-selected pace and a fast pace.
Evidence: Prior to training the subjects, mean BBS score measured 38.05 points ± 8.72. Following 8
training sessions, 29 of the original participants remained in the study and the BBS score increased to
40.59 ± 9.15. After 16 Wii training sessions, with 21 participants remaining in the study, the mean BBS
score measured 42.55 points ± 8.74. Time to complete the 10 MWT at a self-selected pace improved on
average 6 % (p > 0.05) and at a fast face improved 12% (p < 0.05).
Importance: The Wii system is desirable due to its ability to detect changes in balance of participants
and its provision of immediate visual and auditory feedback to the individual training on the system.
These factors combined with the affordability of the system, make it attractive to PT providers and ALF
managers. Additionally based on this trial, recommendations for appropriate Wii balance training
activities can be made in light of the naivety of many elderly individuals to interactive computer
technologies as well as the physical and cognitive impairments that may contribute to balance deficits in
this population.
48

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Physical Therapy
Poster Presentation
The Effect of Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Training on the Berg Balance Scale in Older Adult
Residents of an Assisted Living Facility.
Kelsey Grassel kmg7098@sru.edu (G) Stephanie Zaucha (G) Nancy Shipe (F)
Purpose
This study investigated the effect of Nintendo Wii Fit balance training twice weekly for 8 weeks with
older adults residing in an assisted living facility (ALF).
Subjects
Forty-one participants, 6 males, 35 females, mean age 86.7 years (range 67-97 ± 5.9) from 2 ALFs
entered the study.
Materials/Methods
Balance was measured using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Participants served as their own control
group with baseline measurements and background information gathered. Each session consisted of 15-
minutes of training. The Berg was repeated after 8 and 16 sessions.
Results
The mean BBS score was 38.05 ± 8.72 at the start of the study. One month later, without intervention,
the mean BBS score was 38.8 ± 8.42. After 8 sessions, 29 of the original participants remained in the
study and the Berg score increased to 40.59 ± 9.15. After 16 sessions, there were 21 participants
remaining in the study with a mean BBS of 42.55 ± 8.74. A total of 11 participants dropped out of the
study due to a myriad of problems including development of a foot ulcer, new diagnosis of cancer and
surgery, dialysis, chronic back pain, schedule too busy, and unrelated to study participation, one
participant died.
Conclusions
This study further substantiates the high fall risk in individuals residing in ALFs. Participants improved an
average of 1.74 points after 8-training sessions and 4.5 points after 16 training sessions. Based on these
findings, there is an improvement in scores but it is less than the recommended 5 points, minimal
detectable changes using a 95% confidence interval recommended by Berg for older adults.
49

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Physics
Poster Presentation
Astrophotography
Tenzing Chougyen Ukyab Lama (U) tcl7229@sru.edu
Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
The basis of my project is to capture images of the celestial bodies around Slippery Rock campus for
educational purpose. As the title suggests, this venture falls under the art of photography. I use a
Cannon DSLR camera mounted on a portable Meade telescope. The intention is to take digital images of
the phases of the Moon, the major planets like Jupiter and Saturn and some of the well known
constellations that could later be used by Astronomy and Space Science students. A classic example is
the determination of the rotation period of the Sun by monitoring sunspots or falsifying the Geocentric
Theory by viewing the various phases of Venus. My objective is to convert some of these images into a
full-dome movie that can be viewed in the SRU planetarium. When the weather does not permit
astrophotography, I diverted some of my time to taking pictures of campus with a fisheye lens. A fisheye
lens is a wide-angle lens that takes a broad, panoramic and hemispherical image having a 180° angle of
view in vertical, horizontal and diagonal direction. Simply put the fisheye mimics the human eye. I would
be taking pictures of a few buildings on campus and give it a panoramic view.
Physics
Poster Presentation
Living Off The Land On Mars
Kassandra Rae Nageotte (U) krn2714@sru.edu Katelyn Danielle Levengood (U)
Courtney Rae McClure (U) Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
It is often believed that the conditions on other planets are far too harsh and different from Earth for
humans to survive on them. However, with growing research, the possibility of living off the land of
Mars is beginning to seem more and more likely. Several missions have shown significant evidence of
water on Mars which may even be just below the surface. Water is a major resource needed for humans
to live off the land. Additionally, gases, such as methane have been detected making the air more like
that which humans are accustomed to and suggesting that Earth like processes may be occurring on
Mars. There have also been a number of minerals discovered on the planet as well as volcanic activity
and a cryosphere. All of these attributes suggest that environments with various thermal and chemical
conditions could be produced to support life on Mars. Surprisingly, the soil on Mars has been found to
be quite similar to that of Earth. The slightly alkaline soil suggests the soil may be suitable for growing
crops. Although there are many discoveries leading to the possibility of living off Mars‟ land, there is still
much to learn about the planet and obstacles to overcome. In this project, we will discuss the factors
that come together to create the possibility of living on Mars. These will include the availability of water,
gases, volcanic activity, and possibility of plant growth on Mars.
50

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Physics
Poster Presentation
The Foundation of the Natural Gas Debate
Dustin Schrecongost (U) dls4975@sru.edu
Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Drilling for natural gas has become one of the most debated topics in America and throughout the
world. Articles for and against this trend are everywhere, the problem is sorting them out. This project
will discuss the primary pros and cons of the natural gas boom and what is being done in response to it
in America. The political, economic, and technological aspects will all be encompassed to enhance your
awareness of this debate.
The first area diagnosed will be the environmental problems caused by hydraulic fracturing. Key points
in this argument will be the amount of fresh water used, roadway damage, and ground water pollution.
The second portion will be about why take the risk? It will focus on the potential for power and wealth
of America. The western hemisphere could take over the market for energy. The political and economic
issues will be discussed.
These two sections cover the basis of the debate. Then I will examine what legislation is trying to limit
the environmental damage and be important in the near future. Lastly I will focus on the technological
innovations that could completely change the industry.
Overall I intend to educate the common citizen on the foundation of the natural gas debate in America.
Everyone hears about how this is a huge problem, but very few know the details. Now they will.
Physics
Oral Presentation
Electro-Optic Properties of 5CB Liquid Crystal
Cory John Dolbashian (U) cjd3832@sru.edu
Rizwan Mahmood (F)
Liquid crystals (LC) belong to the category of exotic or soft material physics possessing both liquid and
crystalline properties. Light ray entering LC splits into two rays traveling with different velocities. This
behavior is due to anisotropy in optical (birefringence) and electrical (dielectric constant) properties of
the medium. Study of these parameters is important for display technology and for other applications of
LC.
During the extent of the research, we will be measuring birefringence and dielectric constants of these
exotic materials as a function of temperature.
We report a study of these physical parameters that shed light on the electro-optic properties of LC.
The material used in this study is 4-cyano-4-n-pentylbiphenyl (5CB). Optical measurements were
performed using polarizing microscope equipped with a digital camera, heating stage, and a compensator
while for the study of dielectric constants, automatic liquid crystal tester (ALCT) was used.
51

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Physics
Poster Presentation
Using the Wiimote to Test Collision Experiments
Joseph David Lapkowicz (U) cjb9714@sru.edu Chelsea Jean Benzie (U) Manuel Valera (F)
If you have ever been in an introductory physics course, you probably have heard of collision
experiments or possibly even done one. There are various different sensors and programs that most
college physics departments have to run these experiments. Have you ever asked yourself if you could
do an experiment like this with something other than specially designed physics tools? We did just that,
and we have decided to test out our hypothesis. We believe that we can use two Wiimotes, a Bluetooth
device, and a software program to input the data to find relatively accurate data from a collision
experiment.
Physics
Poster Presentation
Investigating Properties of Circumbinary Planets
Cory John Dolbashian (U) cjd3832@sru.edu Kyle T Wagonseller (U) Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
A newly discovered circumbinary system has left the astronomical society in quite an astounded state.
What does this even mean? To sum it up, while our solar system orbits one star (the Sun), there are
systems that orbit 2 stars. Why is this important? This is the exact question we intend to answer. We
will compare and contrast the various differences that come about when examining our single star
system verses a binary star system. We will also specifically address some of the other mysteries behind
these circumbinary systems, specifically, the possibilities of life, the difference in the theoretical seasons,
and how we even go about detecting such a system?
Physics
Poster Presentation
The Expanding Universe
Daniel Lee Arnett (U) dla5503@sru.edu
Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Today it is common knowledge that the Universe as we know it is expanding. Modern cosmology has
heavily depended on this fact for over half a century. Who actually discovered that the Universe is
expanding? Edwin Hubble always seems to come to people‟s minds. Science professors and television
shows all seem to point to Hubble‟s astonishing discoveries. While his work did revolutionize the way
we view the Universe, researchers have begun to question who actually discovered this critical fact.
Sources vary as to whom made the initial realization that the Universe is expanding. Edwin Hubble,
William de Sitter, Alexander Friedmann, even the Qur‟an itself, have all received mention. However
scientific consensus seems to have formed around a Belgian priest and physicist by the name of Georges
Lemaître. In my research project, I intend to investigate whether Lemaître should get the accolades by
examining facts that are often ignored by the public. Georges Lemaître changed our view of the cosmos
and with my project I hope to demonstrate how critical his work truly is to astronomers today.
52

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Physics
Poster Presentation
Formation of the Type Ia Supernova
Sarah A Dublin (U) sxd5196@sru.edu Kylie N. Lebaroff (U) Krishna C. Mukherjee (F)
The purpose of this research is to explain the phenomena and disagreements that surround the Type Ia
supernova. We discuss theories of the formation of a Type Ia Supernova, including the possibilities of a
close binary system, the merger of two white dwarf stars, and even the possibility of solitary star
collision. We also look into some of the controversies and how they affect the theory of the formation
of the supernovae. The debate brought about most often is over a lack of a companion star. We
discuss the possibilities of a companion star, despite a lack of visual evidence. Thus, the question arises:
how much do we really know about the Type Ia Supernovae?
Physics
Poster Presentation
The Formation of the Moon
Zane Oscar Barger (U) zxb1459@sru.edu Jamie Ann Laughner (U) Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
They say that the best things in life are free like clean air, sunshine, the moon, and the stars. Looking at
the moon, one can romantically assume that it has always been there, and that it always will be. Indeed,
the moon has been Earth‟s celestial neighbor since close to its inception. But how did it get there? In this
project, we will be examining the origins and formation of the moon, as well as important facts related
to its existence. Potential theories include the fission theory, which states that the moon was once a
part of earth and split off due to high rotation speeds, the capture theory, which states that the moon
formed elsewhere in the solar system and was captured by the earth‟s gravitational field, the
condensation theory, which states that the moon and the earth formed within the same nebula, and the
widely accepted giant impact theory, which states that the moon formed from a collision with a rogue
planet. Some suggest that the earth may have once had two moons which fused together to its current
form. This theory will also be examined. In addition to these formation theories, the project will also
focus on the moon in general, including its effects on the earth as a system.
53

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Physics
Poster Presentation
Space Elevators: The Future of Space Travel
Corey W Randour (U) cwr4548@sru.edu Alexis K McCowin (U) Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
The basis of space travel has been shuttles or rockets for the entirety of the history of humans in space.
A newly proposed idea of a reusable vessel has now entered the picture of space travel. The space
elevator will be a reusable method of travel into and out of space. It will be capable of transporting
humans, goods, satellites, and any other cargo deemed necessary. In this project, we will analyze the
overview of what makes up a space elevator, its history, and the obstacles preventing it from being made
feasible. Our project will also examine international competitions being supervised by the Spaceward
Foundation, which are making groundbreaking strides in the design process. With the use of space
elevators, numerous opportunities of space travel are made available that were previously deemed
impossible.
Physics
Poster Presentation
Dwarf Galaxies
Laura A. Machuga(U) lam4908@sru.edu Becky A Wadsworth (U) Mallory K Hidinger (U)
Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
Dwarf galaxies are galaxies with masses 10 to 1000 times smaller than a typical galaxy. Very little is
known about dwarf galaxies; however, they may be the key to understanding galaxy structure. We will
examine several credible sources that provide information about dwarf galaxies in an effort to determine
the role that they play in galaxy formation and evolution. These resources include some of the leading
peer reviewed journals such as Astrophysical Journal, Astronomy and Astrophysics, Nature, and Science. We
will also research the techniques used by astronomers to detect these dwarf galaxies and how they may
shed light on the distribution of dark matter in the universe.
Physics
Poster Presentation
Black Holes
Marisa Renee Jendrasik (U) mrj5502@sru.edu Mary Rose Boyle (U) Krishna C Mukherjee (F)
The Milky Way Galaxy is a barred spiral galaxy, made of roughly a hundred billion stars. This is the
galaxy which contains our Solar System. At the center of our Milky Way Galaxy is a black hole, which
will be our main focus for this project. Our study will examine how we determined the size of this
object and the differences between the Milky Way Galaxy‟s black hole and black holes at the center of
other galaxies. Recently a gas cloud has been observed approaching close to the black hole. Our project
will also focus on how astronomers intend to determine the evolution of our black hole in the future.
54

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Physics
Poster Presentation
Trojan Asteroids
Anna M Timko (U) amt9852@sru.edu Christian P McIlwain (U) Krishna C Mukherjeer (F)
In this project, we want to show what Trojan asteroids are, as well as give people a sense of why they
are fascinating parts of the universe. Asteroids sharing an orbit with a planet are known as Trojan
asteroids. The first Trojan was discovered in 1906. There are now 2,909 known Trojan asteroids.
Although Trojan asteroids have been discovered for Mars, Neptune, and even Earth the term “Trojan
asteroid” generally refers to the asteroids accompanying Jupiter. There are currently over 4,800 known
Trojan asteroids associated with Jupiter. However, within the past year, scientists have discovered that
Earth has at least one Trojan asteroid. Because of this, it is important to study Trojan asteroids and we
intend to examine how they are discovered, what creates them and how they affect the planet they are
orbiting.
Physics
Poster Presentation
Water on Mars
Shaina B Sandrock (U) sbs4933@sru.edu Chelsey J Gebhardt (U) Krishna Mukherjee (F)
There is no hard evidence that liquid water is flowing on the surface of Mars. This is due to the fact that
no orbiting spacecraft, with high resolution photographs of Mars‟ surface, has seen lakes, rivers, or even
puddles. However, NASA has observed dark, finger-like features appearing and extending down some
Martian slopes during late spring through summer. These structures are thought to be the flow of briny
liquid water. Our research project reviews the evidence of water flow, past and present, on Mars. We
are specifically looking at photos and surface studies taken by NASA‟s rovers and spacecrafts such as the
Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. In addition to looking at the different studies of the surface of Mars in
journals like Nature and Science, we will also use resources of NASA‟s website. After examining the
various literatures on the topography and surface features on Mars, we would like to find the answer to
two questions: what is the likelihood of water existing on Mars and a timeline for when water flowed on
the surface of Mars.
55

2012 SRU Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Achievement
Theatre
Performance
Prophesies, Prophets, and Oracles of Greek Lore
Aniela Marie Schaefer (U) ams7763@sru.edu
Colleen Reilly (F)
Although the topics of Greek plays were extremely diverse, the elements of catharsis, fate, and pride
are consistent throughout these texts. For the Greeks, the idea of fate was one that was firmly rooted
in their daily lives and inescapable. Pride was considered to be a fatal flaw, also known as hubris. Many
plays served as warnings to the audience. Playwrights used combinations of fate and pride to reach
catharsis, a release of emotions, in the audience. Euripides‟ play, The Bacchae, provides an excellent
example of this dramaturgical convention.
I will be performing two contrasting monologues from Euripides‟s The Bacchae that demonstrate the
three elements formerly mentioned for, in the course of the first monologue demonstrates her pride in
the presentation of this trophy. The second monologue achieves catharsis as she experiences the
realization of her actions having played not only a role in her own fate, but also in her son‟s. She has
killed Pentheus, enabling Dionysus to extract revenge on an old grudge with his mortal family. Tension
builds throughout the second monologue as the audience waits for her to see the truth in her actions.
It is finally released in the expression of her grief and the realization of her fatal flaw.
56