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THE EFFECT OF TARGETED HEART RATE MAXIMUM PERCENTAGES ON COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN COLLEGE-AGED ADULTS
Previous research has displayed per the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), an increased heart rate (HR) is associated with higher cognitive function due to hormone and neurotransmitter release, specifically through the release of norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (EPI). The purpose of the present study is to examine if cognitive function defined by the Purdue PegBoard (PPB) is affected by targeted increases of heart rate maximum, as increased HR is stimulated by the SNS
A putative YesMN two-component system ortholog in Streptococcus gordonii impacts biofilm formation in a zinc-dependent manner
Streptococcus gordonii is an oral bacterium that forms plaque biofilms on the surface of the teeth. Two-component systems within bacteria allow for sensing of the external environment, the ability to respond to any external changes, and regulation of behaviors such as the formation of biofilms. We are interested in studying which two-component systems are involved in the regulation of biofilm formation by S. gordonii since it is currently poorly understood. A gene deletion mutant of an uncharacterized sensor kinase and response regulator SGO_1760/1761 was generated and evaluated for its role in biofilm formation. Interestingly, ΔSGO_1760/1761 had increased biofilm biomass compared to wild-type S. gordonii as measured by crystal violet staining. Evaluation of OD600 and ATP quantification suggested that this increase in biofilm formation was not due to an increase in bacterial growth. Sequence alignments showed that SGO_1760/1761 has significant homology to the two-component system YesMN in Streptococcus pneumoniae, which plays a role in zinc homeostasis and glycan metabolism. Therefore, wild-type S. gordonii and ΔSGO_1760/1761 biofilms were grown under a range of Zn-limiting conditions using the chelator TPEN. Zinc limitation restored ΔSGO_1760/61 biofilm biomass to wild-type levels. Together these data suggest that SGO_1760/61 plays a role in biofilm formation in a zinc-dependent manner, encodes a YesMN ortholog in S. gordonii, and provides insight into S.gordonii regulation of biofilm formation
Helichrysum Oil Inhibits IFN-γ and LPS Activity in RAW 264.7 Cells
The goal of this study is to examine the anti inflammatory properties of Helichrysum on macrophages from RAW 267.4 cells that will be stimulated by IFN-γ and Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) mediators into M1 phase inflammatory cytokines, and then analyze the results using a variety of analytical techniques, including morphology, phagocytosis assay, nitric oxide assay, and ELISA. Our hypothesis is that Helichrysum essential oil will inhibit the growth and change of macrophages stimulated by IFN-γ and LPS separately or combined, therefore limiting their inflammatory functions
Alternative Educational Service Delivery Models for Students Receiving Special Education Services
The landscape of educational models to service students receiving special education services is changing rapidly. Districts, schools, and individual teachers are welcoming a more diverse set of students and families into their classrooms. In order to meet a wider and more complex set of student needs, educators are finding that traditional school models are not always sufficient to reach each and every student. As such, alternative educational models are a growing consideration for both research and pedagogical practice. Spurred on in part by the necessity of distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, several of these alternative models are seeing wider and more rapid acceptance within districts. This thesis will focus on exploring three of the more common alternative educational models currently utilized to service students in special education. These models are online learning, hybrid learning, and finally, the charter school model. This thesis will consider these models from the lens of an educator teaching students in special education, with an emphasis on application of these models within the classroom
The Value of Play in an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program Preschool Classroom
This work sought to further understand the benefits and consequences of play in early childhood settings. Benefits included brain development stimulation, improvement in intelligence, a boost in personal creative thinking, bolstered communication skills and social emotional regulation abilities, better social competence, improved physical and mental health, increased problem solving skills, and strengthened relationships. Varying types of play provide valuable data points as to the critical importance of play in the development of young children. Research continues to suggest a strong link between the efficacy of purposeful play and the correlating benefits of children’s growth and development in key areas. These key areas include, but are not limited to, improved social emotional regulation skills, strengthened relationships, greater problem solving skills, increased academic achievement, and much more. The relationship between play and literacy development is also considered. Additional factors of note include play and safety, differing types of preschool settings, teacher’s perceptions on play, the impact of video games on children’s development, familial income levels, and play benefits evaluated within the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme setting
EPPA Scribe Program
Over the course of Fall semester, I started scribing with EPPA to gain experience working in the medical field with doctors and PAs. Working with a variety of different medical professionals allowed me to see the differences and similarities between working as a nurse, PA, or doctor. I learned how important it is to have an approachable bedside manner and to be willing to listen to your patients, time management, and balancing priorities of school and work. In addition, I got to witness a variety of medical procedures and developed a broader medical vocabulary. Overall, the internship helped deepen my interest in the medical field
Ankle Mobility and Balance in a Healthy College-Aged Population: A Correlational Study
A review of current literature shows a relationship between ankle mobility and balance in an older population, with limited evidence in younger, healthy populations. To bridge this gap, this study aims to explore this relationship in a healthy, college-aged population. Maintaining upright balance is an integrated effort by the vestibular, somatosensory, and visual systems. Regaining a loss of balance happens with three strategies: an ankle strategy for small perturbations, a hip strategy for moderate perturbations, and a stepping strategy for the largest loss to regain a new base of support. Taking these sequential responses into account, the investigators specifically looked into the ankle joint as it is the first potential region to limit postural and balance strategies. 28 subjects (20.1 ± 0.9 years) were asked to undergo two procedures. First, ankle goniometry was performed on four motions: dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion, and eversion. The first two used a trusted smartphone application to obtain measurements, while the latter two used a goniometer. Next, the BioSway BESS Test was performed to objectively measure balance. Pearson’s Correlation testing, using SPSS Software, showed no significant correlation (p\u3c0.05) between Biosway and all goniometric measurements. Significance was found between test items on the BioSway: Double Leg Stance (DLS) firm and foam (r=0.602, p\u3c0.001) and Single Leg Stance (SLS) firm and foam (r=0.387, p\u3c0.05). Ankle mobility does not appear to directly impact the target group’s ability to effectively maintain balance. This is shown through the results of no direct correlation in any of the goniometric measures with the only significance being present in the differing test surfaces. This rejects the investigator’s hypothesis that ankle mobility impacts balance. The hypothesis was based on previous research proving a correlation between the variables in an elderly population. One explanation may be that older populations may have weaker hips and knees and may be likely to have a weaker imbalance response than the target population for this study. This study shows that when pertaining to a young, healthy population, to correct one’s imbalance response, one may not need to examine ankle mobility
College Student\u27s Attitudes Towards Speech Disorders
This study investigated College Students and their attitudes toward Speech Disorders. The sample consisted of 42 college students from Bethel University aged 18+ or who had an approved parent consent form. Participants participated in this study through the SONA system as part of a research experience assignment or extra credit opportunity for a Bethel University course. The purpose of this study was to find differences in college student\u27s attitudes toward speech disorders
How Play-Based Learning Impacts Students With Specific Learning and Social-emotional Needs
The study of play-based learning has unique implications for educational settings, children, and families.,In recent years play-based learning in education, especially for students with specific learning and social-emotional needs, has had increasing recognition. Play-based learning provides an approach for students that focuses on not just academic development, but also social skills, emotional regulation, and problem-solving abilities. For students with diverse needs, such as those with learning disabilities or emotional difficulties, play-based learning offers a safe and inclusive environment where they can explore, experiment, and engage with their peers in a meaningful way. Through play, these students can enhance their communication skills, develop more profound self-awareness, and build positive relationships with others. By incorporating play-based activities into curriculum at school, educators can create a supportive and enriching learning experience that caters to the individual needs of all students, fostering growth and success both inside and outside the classroom
Special Education Teacher Attrition: The Role of School Leaders and Administrators in Supporting and Retaining Qualified Staff
This literature review examines studies relating to special education teacher attrition and retention. The primary focus of this literature is to gain an understanding of the factors leading to the rising attrition in special education, potential implications on student achievement, and what school leaders can do to combat this attrition and retain qualified staff. Results identify variables such as extreme workloads and accountability pressures, overall dissatisfaction with school climate, lack of administration support, and low wages as leading factors to why special educators are leaving the field. Studies suggest that losing high quality special education staff negatively affects the learning and growth of students. Additionally, the rising special education teacher attrition has potential for detrimental financial impacts on school districts and overwhelming research affirms the vital role school leaders, administrators, and policymakers play in the retention and maintenance of high-quality special education teachers. To maintain and strengthen the special education teacher workforce, school leaders must focus on high quality training and development, mentorship, cultivating a positive and understanding school climate, and providing strong administrative support towards the needs of special education teachers