2671 research outputs found
Sort by
Species Identification of Helminth Parasites in Small Mammals
No full textThis research project focuses on helminth infection dynamics within small mammals of southern Ohio. It is a part of a larger project that investigates the pathological effects of parasitic infections. In the summer and fall of 2024, we trapped small mammals, including rodents and shrews, at the Shawnee State Forest and Thacker family property. We collected samples from the mammals, including fecal samples and organ samples. In the fall semester, I assessed helminth infection status using two methodologies: fecal floats to look for helminth eggs and intestinal dissections to look for adult helminths. Five of the seven mammals were infected with helminths. Helminth species were determined by comparing the morphology of the eggs and adults to reference pictures of known helminth species. This semester, I’m validating helminth species identifications by extracting DNA from the adult helminths, amplifying the DNA via polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and sequencing the amplified DNA product
Dancetowne!
No full textI will be re-presenting a game pitch for my self created game concept, Dancetowne!, that originally won the pitch competition at the 2024 Shawnee Game Conference. As a part of the process, I have been improving and revising this pitch based on the feedback I received at the Conference, and since I have composed some music for the game, I will be presenting that as well
The use of occupation-based assessments for evaluation of CMC osteoarthritis in Appalachia: A survey
Full text linkBackground: Occupational therapy is a holistic practicing field that requires a unique skill set to implement client-centered practice methods with the aim to increase an individual’s daily performance in desired occupations. Purpose: This research aims to determine the usage of occupation-based assessments, specifically, in the outpatient settings by therapists practicing on patients who have carpometacarpal osteoarthritis. Method: A mixed survey was completed to obtain both qualitative and quantitative data to then interpret and find themes. Conclusion: Ultimately, the therapists are using occupation-based assessments in practice, but it is less than ideal in frequency. Many reasons are contributing to the lack of implementation and further research should be conducted to dive deeper into understanding the methods of practice
Parasite infections and immune system dynamics in rodents
Full text linkParasitic infections can significantly alter host immune responses, particularly through changes in white blood cell (WBC) populations. Ectoparasites such as ticks and mites are common in rodents and are known to elicit immune reactions, which are often characterized by an increase in eosinophils, granulocytes specialized in responding to parasitic infections. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ectoparasite infestations on rodent WBC counts, with a focus on eosinophil levels. Blood samples were collected from wild rodents via submandibular bleeding, and manual differentials were performed using Diff-Quik and Wright-Giemsa staining techniques. Initial findings revealed no significant increase in eosinophils, potentially due to the low number of rodents exhibiting heavy mite or tick infestations. Lymphocytes were the predominant white blood cell observed. Due to the limited sample size, further research is needed to determine whether ectoparasite burden correlates with eosinophil levels. Future studies will involve tagging rodents for recapture, allowing for longitudinal tracking of parasite burden and immune response over time and standardized ectoparasite grading (0-4+) will be implemented to assess infestation severity
Automated Salinity Regulation Systems for Aquariums
Full text linkMaintaining the right salinity level in an aquarium is essential for the health and well-being of aquatic life, yet manual adjustments can be time-consuming and imprecise. This project presents an innovative automated system designed to regulate salinity levels efficiently. The prototype includes four interconnected containers: salt storage, freshwater storage, an aquarium, and a waste container. A microcontroller, working with a salinity sensor and barometer, continuously monitors the water conditions and makes real-time adjustments. Salt is dispensed through a custom-designed valve, while freshwater is added via a solenoid valve, and excess water is removed with an electronic pump. By automating this process, the system ensures precise salinity control and prevents overflow, reducing the need for constant human intervention. This research aims to develop and evaluate a reliable solution for maintaining stable salinity levels, ultimately improving aquarium management for hobbyists and professionals alike
The Fight for Privacy: Facebook’s Failure to Secure User Data
Full text linkThis paper examines the ethical and privacy concerns surrounding Facebook\u27s handling of user data, focusing on incidents like the Cambridge Analytica scandal and the implications of targeted advertising. It explores Facebook’s practices through the lenses of ethical egoism, which prioritizes profit maximization, and utilitarianism, which emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest amount of people. By analyzing the impact of Big Data, microtargeting, and emotional manipulation, the paper critiques Facebook\u27s disregard for user privacy and ethical responsibility. While acknowledging counterarguments that prioritize stakeholder profits, it highlights the risks of user trust and the potential for government regulation. The paper also discusses the ineffectiveness of user-driven boycotts and emphasizes the importance of collective action to demand changes in Facebook’s data policies. It concludes by advocating for a balance between ethical business practices and profitability, urging users to unite for improved privacy protections and accountability in the digital age
How Leadership Styles Can Affect the Work Environment
Full text linkWells Fargo bank had a major ethical dilemma in 2016 where employees created hundreds of thousands of fake accounts to meet quotas. This is an example of unethical behavior within the egoism theological framework. When employees act unethically it can be out of self-interest. On the other hand, how do managers and supervisors influence unethical behavior by setting unrealistic goals for employees. The type of management that leads a company can influence whether employees act unethically or not. The two leadership types that can influence the work environment are translational and transactional leaders
The Ethics of Affordable Education
Full text linkThis essay examined the rising cost of textbooks, which creates a financial burden for college students and impacts academic performance. Colleges and universities have an ethical responsibility, according to Corporate Social Responsibility and Stakeholder Theory, to prioritize the needs of students and provide affordable education. Open Educational Resources offer a solution by giving students free access to high-quality learning materials. This essay highlights two examples of institutions that have already adopted Open Educational Resources and experienced significant cost savings and improved student success. The essay also addresses concerns about the availability and quality of Open Educational Resources while arguing that colleges should adopt them to reduce financial barriers for students
Master\u27s Portfolio
Full text linkContents include reflective introduction, teaching philosophy, sample of scholarly writing, and sample teaching materials (syllabus, assignment, and lesson plan)
Efficient, Effective and Engaging Video in Online Instruction
No full textIn the wake of COVID the unprecedented demand for online instruction has spurred the need for new engagement tactics among educators. To help students feel there is more interaction during a course delivery experience, new tactics and tools are being introduced into learning management systems and online platforms. However, for the instructor, the result is often an overwhelming amount of additional work to learn the new tools and apply them effectively. Using video for both lesson delivery and assessment feedback, as well as collaborative projects, has become more common with advances in available tools as well as a more accepting culture that has become used to being online, on camera, and recorded. This workshop will demonstrate some easy-to-use steps in bolstering learner engagement and interaction through simple video recording and interface, both live and for asynchronous pre-recorded material. A basic look at some steps to improve video and audio will be covered with suggestions on how to streamline the message to help improve retention. Covering video grades, simple techniques for capturing and using assessment feedback in short-form video will be discussed as a means of personalizing the learning experience for the student. A review will be presented regarding the positive feedback, both anecdotal and in structured focus groups, from students exposed to some of the techniques discussed. The workshop concludes with a brief look at future tools in learning management systems that may help support and streamline further the use of video interfaces