Time: 9:00 - 10:15 a.m. | Location: Knutson Center Centrum and Atrium
P01. “Comparing Biodiversity of Small Mammal Species in Remnant and Restored Prairie Habitats”
Student Presenter(s): Katie Waugh, Lydia Durrett
Mentored by: Dr. Joseph Whittaker
”Abstract”
In Minnesota, few prairies have survived European colonization and widespread agricultural development. These remnant prairies are scattered and fragmented, interfering with the natural subsistence of the ecosystem. Restoration efforts by private and academic entities have been initiated to revive native prairies. However, the effectiveness of the efforts, in relation to small mammal populations, remains understudied. Using small mammals as an indicator, we hope to observe the efficacy of the current management techniques on prairie health and success of restoration. This research monitors small mammal populations, diversity, and species richness in restored prairies that have implemented management techniques compared to remnant prairies. Through comparison of these sites, we can observe the effectiveness of these techniques and hope to observe an increase in small mammal populations, richness, and diversity on restored prairies that approximates those seen on remnant prairies. Collecting data at remnant and restored prairies in northwestern Minnesota enables us to observe the differences in mammal species richness, evenness, and diversity. Grids are established at each site with live-trapping stations (40-50 per grid), where captured small mammals are identified by species, sex, and mass before being marked and released. Since the project’s initiation in 2012, we have seen an increase in small mammal populations in the restored prairies approaching the levels observed in remnant prairies. This suggests that current management techniques are successful, but specific species present may not represent the historical community. We hope to gather further information on small mammal populations to further understand their diversity and abundance dynamics.
P02. “Ethnographic review of Concordia’s EACH club”
Student Presenter(s): Olivia Daniels
Mentored by: Dr. Karla Knutson
”Abstract”
This ethnographic research project was conducted with the goal of understanding the microculture of animal caretakers within Concordia’s Exotic Animal Care and Husbandry (EACH) club. EACH club is responsible for the care of a wide variety of animal species and an understanding of the club’s culture could benefit not only the animals being cared for but also provide context and understanding to other communities that may interact with EACH or its members. Data collection was done using Ethnographic research methods consisting of participant observation and shadowing of EACH members as they go through their shifts, interviews with core members of the club, and library research on similar animal care environments. The observation period lasted approximately 12 weeks during the spring 2024 academic semester. Participant observation sessions happened on Friday afternoons every week during the observation period, this schedule varied slightly from week to week depending on EACH member’s availability and schedule. Research is ongoing so the results of this research have yet to be determined.
P03. “Phytoplankton Abundance in Long Lake, Detroit Township, MN”
Student Presenter(s): Jordan Hunnicutt, Jadrian Moe, Tessa Danielson, Isaac Blashack
Mentored by: Dr. Mike Bush
”Abstract”
Diatoms, green algae, and cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms that are largely responsible for forming the energy that makes up the base of the food chain. Therefore, the abundance of these phytoplankton in a body of water, such as a lake, can be crucial to the state and health of that ecosystem. Our goal is to observe and record how a heavy rain event will affect the abundance of diatoms in Long Lake (Detroit Township, Minnesota), predicting that diatom abundance will not vary with the presence of a rain event. This experiment was conducted September 19th and 26th at Concordia’s Long Lake Field Station. A heavy rain event occurred between the two sampling dates. Three benthic and three pelagic samples were collected at three different locations on the shoreline and at three varying depths. The samples were preserved in 70% EtOH. Each sample had a slide made and observed under 100x magnification to count phytoplankton abundance. The collected data showed that while diatoms increased, cyanobacteria slightly decreased following the rain event. The change in green algae abundance was not significant enough to draw further conclusions. Based on the data, we found only marginal support for out alternative hypothesis. It is likely that the diatom abundance increased because diatoms are tolerant to wide fluctuations in temperature. However, cyanobacteria require higher temperatures to be competitive with diatoms communities. This explains the observed changes in phytoplankton abundance because rain events can be expected to cool water temperatures.
P04. “Review of Water Quality in Turtle River Lake”
Student Presenter(s): Rachel Andersen
Mentored by: Dr. Mike Bush
”Abstract”
Turtle River Lake is a lake located in Turtle River, Minnesota, about 11 miles northeast of Bemidji. It’s approximately 1740.3 acres and the littoral area is approximately 668.6 acres. The maximum depth of this lake is 63 feet and the shoreline is occupied by private residences, wetland areas, and Concordia Language Villages. This lake has six inlets and one outlet so water is turned over frequently. Trophic State Index is an index used to measure the overall water quality and productivity of a lake. It is composed of phosphorus levels, chlorophyll levels, and Secchi depth. These three measurements are related to algae growth and eutrophication, which makes it a good indicator of overall lake health. The mean TSI score for Turtle River Lake is 49, classifying it as a mesotrophic lake. This is a good score indicating that this lake is relatively healthy. This could be due to a variety of reasons, like the healthy lakeshore around the CLV area, the number of inlets and outlets that consistently refresh the lake water, the lack of infestation of invasive species, and the rurality of the lake and comparatively lower human impact. The vegetation around the lakeshore consists mainly of deciduous tree species and aquatic vegetation like reed canary grass, swamp milkweed, and jewelweed. Thanks to a healthy lakeshore, Turtle River Lake has a healthy population of fish, consisting of species like Bluegill, Northern Pike, and Walleye. Turtle River Lake is consistently positively rated for its fishing recreation activities.
P05. “A Real-life Oasis: The importance of springs in desert ecosystems”
Student Presenter(s): Rachel Andersen, Hannah Olson, Grace Borka, Erin Vruwink
Mentored by: Dr. Mike Bush
”Abstract”
In water-limited environments, composition of floral communities can be almost entirely determined by proximity to a water source. The Trans-Pecos Mountains of southern Texas is one such environment, with less than 30 cm of rain falling annually in a typical year. To assess the impacts of water availability desert floral communities, we conducted point-count surveys adjacent to Mules Ears Springs in Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA. The springs are a very narrow, flowing-water system that periodically dries up. At their widest point, the springs are less than one meter from bank to bank. Six points were chosen based on proximity to the springs, ranging in distance from the riparian edge of the springs to approximately 150 m away. Differences in community composition were determined using Permanova analyses in R, with significant differences detected in composition based on distance from Mules Ears Springs. Despite the relatively short distance between the sites, the vegetation community rapidly shifted from water-dependent species to arid species, underscoring the large boost in biodiversity that even a small amount of water can have in arid systems.
P06. “Stomata Density in Green Ash and Bur Oak Trees between Moorhead, MN and Long Lake, Detroit Lakes, MN”
Student Presenter(s): Desi Hoppe, Jillian Walz, Rachel Krause, Maddie McGraw
Mentored by: Dr. Mike Bush
”Abstract”
Plants breathe through pores called stomata that regulate gas exchange for photosynthesis, and it is currently unknown which tree species are most likely to have greater control over their water loss and CO₂ uptake rates. Stomatal density is thought to depend on environmental factors, including the amount of sunlight, humidity, and the temperature. To discover more about these functions in varying tree species, we collected leaves from Bur Oak and Green Ash in 3 different locations: Long Lake, Concordia College, and the Red River. These specific species were chosen because of their differing natural habitats, Green Ash being most common in forests and Bur Oak in savannahs. We hypothesized that there would be a difference in stomata density across species and location. Imprints of each leaf were taken, and the stomata were counted in a 0.196mm² area through a microscope. The results show an average of 67.6, 29.6, and 56 stomata in Bur Oaks from the three locations, and 25.8, 29.4, and 29.6 stomata in Green Ashes from the three locations. We concluded that the most stomata dense species was Bur Oak and location was Long Lake. This could be because Bur Oak is commonly found in arid regions, therefore needing the ability of regulated water diffusion and gas exchange.
P07. “Magnetic Properties of Pipestone (Catlinite) Samples”
Student Presenter(s): Rowan Nelson, Elijah Heyer
Mentored by: Dr. Thelma Berquó
”Abstract”
Pipestone is a broad term used to describe carvable clay-like sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. Catlinite is an example of a pipestone composed of mainly pyrophyllite and muscovite, with other minerals such as diaspore and kaolinite. Catlinite has a slightly red hue, which led us to hypothesize that iron oxide hematite is present as well. To test this hypothesis, we procured Catlinite samples of varying appearances/colors and studied their magnetic properties. We obtained ZFC/FC magnetization curves, hysteresis loops at different temperatures (50 K, 150 K, and 300 K), and Mössbauer spectroscopy data at 300 K for each sample. The presence of hematite is confirmed by all the above techniques used to identify its presence.
P08. “Unraveling the Function of Protein 3L1W: A Comprehensive In Silico and In Vitro Investigation”
Student Presenter(s): Gabriel Sparks, William Knoop, Alexander Rapelje
Mentored by: Dr. Julie Mach
”Abstract”
There are many proteins within the Protein Data Bank (PDB) that have known structures, but a small percentage of these proteins have a determined function. In our research we investigated the protein 3L1W to try and determine its function. We followed the guidelines provided to us by the Biochemistry Authentic Scientific Inquiry Lab (BASIL). The function of 3L1W was hypothesized using in silico techniques. To test the function of 3L1W in vitro techniques were employed. In silico techniques such as BLAST, InterPRO, SPRITE, Chimera, and Dali provided insightful data. Based on the data obtained from in silico techniques, we have determined that 3L1W is likely exonuclease/endonuclease and belongs to the endonuclease/exonuclease/phosphatase super family. Additionally, 3L1W originates in the bacteria Enterococcus faecalis. For the in vitro techniques we conducted experiments such as the expression of the protein using a bacterial vector, expressing our protein in BL 21 cells, purification using ion metal affinity chromatography (IMAC), and assessment of our protein using SDS-PAGE. Continued in vitro work is necessary to confirm the function of our protein.
P09. “Synthesis of RAPTA Derivatives”
Student Presenter(s): Gannon Kuehn, Braden Jackson
Mentored by: Dr. Donald Krogstad
”Abstract”
In the development of metal-based pharmaceuticals, the aim is to optimize the efficiency of the molecule while minimizing the adverse effects. This can be done by either changing the metal center, or by changing the ligand. Our research focuses on RAPTA, a ruthenium (II) atom connected to an arene, chlorides, and the ligand derivative of PTA. RAPTA normally targets DNA, resulting in adverse effects, but binuclear RAPTA compounds don’t, making them an ideal candidate for further research. In our research, we synthesized 6 binuclear RAPTA compounds by changing the geometry of the ligand as well as changing the type of arene. Once synthesized, they were characterized by P¹⁵-NMR.
P10. “Photothermal Imaging of Transient and Steady State Convection Dynamics in Primary Alkanes”
Student Presenter(s): Johan Dominguez Lopez
Mentored by: Dr. Darin Ulness Dr. Mark Gealy
”Abstract”
This poster will present a novel photothermal spectroscopy technique that effectively images convective heat flow in molecular liquids, resulting from localized laser-induced heating. The method combines aspects of thermal lensing and photothermal deflection. A high-energy infrared laser is used to induce a thermal lens in the sample, and a divergent visible laser to probe the entire region of the pump beam within the sample. This approach allows for the observation of convective flow of the liquid above the pump beam. The study focuses on the liquid primary alkanes, from n-pentane to n-pentadecane. The poster provides experimental results, including dynamical data for the propagation of the transient wavefront in these alkanes and the exploration of dependence on pump laser power. These transient wavefronts will also be referred to thermal plumes.
P11. “Top Managerial Challenges Small and Large Retail Stores Face”
Student Presenter(s): Isabella Ortendahl, Brady Tatro, Sam Johnson, Hannah Luithle, Emma Bowman, Garrett Sandberg
Mentored by: Dr. Shontarius Aikens
”Abstract”
1) By using our research skills and the skills we have learned in Organizational Behavior (BUSN 440), we will dive deeper into small and large retail businesses and address the largest issues in the industry by suggesting the concepts learned in class as solutions. 2) Thesis: We believe that the following managerial effectiveness activities will be the most impactful in the retail industry: Training and Development, managing conflict, decision-making, staffing, disciplining and punishing, motivating and reinforcing, planning, interacting with others, socializing and politicking, and exchanging routine information. Each student will conduct five interviews with managers involved in the retail industry. Three students will choose managers in a big retail pool and three students will choose managers in a small retail pool. We have created a list of the top 10 managerial issues of concern that arise in the retail industry that managers face while interacting with their teams, customers, and superiors. We think our list is accurate, and after conducting our interviews with managers in the retail industry, we will examine the results to see if we were correct and present our findings.
P12. “Modern Concerns of Administrative Roles”
Student Presenter(s): Kane Hoff, Abbey Hardwick, Conner Walsh, Matthew Gangl, Ryan Pogue
Mentored by: Dr. Shontarius Aikens
”Abstract”
We believe the administrative industry has risen in importance since the creation in the late 19th century and want to shed light on the day-to-day concerns of administration. This stems from the fact that administrative roles have evolved from clerks to leaders and decision-makers in organizations. Our objective of this project is to test our hypothesis of what we believe to be the top 10 concerns of the industry. The top 10 topics we chose for our hypothesis were as follows: Leadership, Ethical-Behavior, Communication, Exchanging Routine Information, Trust, Decision-Making, Delegating Tasks, Planning, Motivating, and Training in that order. Our method of testing this hypothesis is to do in-person interviews with administrative professionals and get their input on what they believe to be the top 10 concerns of their roles. After the interviews we intend on discussing the results as a team and revising our list as necessary. Our anticipated results are that our top 10 will remain the same but we will use the results of our interview to create a revised top 10 list.
P13. “Exercise Culture in College Gyms”
Student Presenter(s): Devon Adams
Mentored by: Dr. Karla Knutson
”Abstract”
The purpose of this project is to explain the methods and conclusions used to create an ethnography regarding the culture at the fitness balcony at Concordia College. Ethnographic writing is useful to understand cultures in a way that involves becoming directly involved in that culture. This information is useful to better understand the fitness culture at Concordia, especially at the fitness balcony in Olson Forum. I will be using a posterboard to present my research and conclusions. I anticipate the results from this ethnography to give insight into the fitness culture at Concordia College and fitness culture in general. This insight can be used to become more involved in these cultures or better understand people involved in this type of physical fitness as a whole.
P14. “Aerial Dance: The Teachers of FM Aerial and Movement Arts”
Student Presenter(s): Briea Freeman
Mentored by: Dr. Karla Knutson
”Abstract”
This research is focused on studying the social behaviors of the aerial teachers at FM Ariel and Movement Arts through ethnographic research. Aerial is a style of modern dance that utilizes various equipment, such as hoops or silk fabrics, to suspend the dancer above ground. By learning how dance instructors communicate, a better overall understanding of how teachers effectively communicate and create bonds with their students and fellow staff members is revealed. My method to this ethnography is to partake in 24 hours of participant observation. I am in the process of gradually integrating myself into a group of local aerial teachers over the course of a month. I am observing various levels of classes along with weekly teacher meetings, assisting the teachers with tasks around the studio, and partaking in informal conversations as well as formal interviews. My ethnography details studio operation and teaching, what life is like as an aerial teacher both inside and outside the studio, and information about aerial dance in general. My presentation will be about the camaraderie and community built by the instructors, and about the societal subgroup of aerial dancers.
P15. “Hummingbird Behaviors Concerning Sugar Concentrations in Feeders”
Student Presenter(s): Madelyn Barlage, Stella Peterson, Alexa Routledge
Mentored by: Dr. Jenn Sweatman, Dr. Joseph Whittaker, Dr. Mike Bush
”Abstract”
Tropical hummingbird species were observed in the jungle at the base of the Mayan mountains at the Toucan Ridge Ecology and Education Society (T.R.E.E.S.) in Middlesex, Belize. They were given two different solutions of feed (a 1:4 ratio of sugar to water and a 1:8 ratio of sugar to water) to test how they would behave in reaction to the differing solutions. We hypothesized that their aggression would increase, and they would defend the feeders that contained the higher concentration. They were tested in two locations with two different dominant and subordinate species being observed. In location one, White Necked Jacobins (Florisuga mellivora) were the dominant species with Violet Sabrewings (Campylopterus hemileucurus) being the subordinate species. In location two, the Rufous-Tailed Hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl) was the dominant species. There was aggression and possessiveness observed by all dominant species of hummingbirds, but it was not definitively connected to the concentration of sugar in the feeders, as hypothesized.
P16. “Diferencias entre el sistema escolar y los sistemas de apoyo psicológico en Segovia y Estados Unidos (Differences between the school system and psychological support systems in Segovia and the United States)”
Student Presenter(s): Jacob Thompson
Mentored by: Ady Johnson
”Abstract”
The United States and Spain have very distinct schooling systems and within them support systems as well. While studying abroad in Segovia, Spain I had the privilege of working directly in an elementary school as an English teacher and an assistant to the school psychologist. During this opportunity I observed the variance in daily schedule, pedagogy, approaches to behavior management, duties and expectations, and overall organizational management. From this, I aim to share my experiences and juxtapose them with the United States’ educational system and psychological support structures. Overall, I hope to provide insight to the positive qualities of each system as to promote the betterment of Concordia’s educational system and the local community’s as well.
P17. “The Influence of ‘Balance ton porc’ and other Feminism Movements in France”
Student Presenter(s): Margrethe Hawthorne
Mentored by: Dr. Gay Rawson
”Abstract”
Since its conception in 2017, the “Balance ton porc” movement has garnered increasing attention in France, both as a feminist movement to share women’s stories and as a significant cultural phenomenon. Originating in 2017 with Sarah Muller’s tweet, “Balance ton porc” aimed to provide a platform for individuals to share their experiences of sexual harassment in the workplace. Leveraging technology to raise awareness, Muller’s call for accountability resonated widely, sparking conversations and challenging societal attitudes towards harassment. Similar to the #MeToo movement in the US, “Balance ton porc” sought not only to shed light on the prevalence of harassment but also to drive tangible change. This project delves into the movement’s creation, impact, criticisms, and draws comparisons with the #MeToo movement in the United States.
P18. “#NiUnaMenos: A Movement Against Femicide in Latin American Countries”
Student Presenter(s): Kailey Thomas
Mentored by: Karin Hillstrom
”Abstract”
In 2015, the movement #NiUnaMenos began in Argentina and quickly grew in other Latin American countries. The name signifies “Not One Less” as it strives to not lose one more life to femicide in Latin America. Femicide is unfortunately at some of the highest rates in Latin America, and this movement began after a 16-year-old lost her life because her boyfriend did not want her to be pregnant. Additionally, this movement strives to bring awareness to domestic violence, abuse and other harmful acts targeting and affecting women. In SPAN 333, Spanish for Medical Professions, we are both learning to be interpreters in healthcare setting, but also focusing heavily on understanding cultural aspects in providing care. This poster project will be completed by researching the history of femicide, domestic violence, and abuse in various Latin America countries along with the impact of the #NiUnaMenos. The goal is for this presentation to bring awareness to femicide in Latin America and the #NiUnaMenos movement.
P19. “Writing for The Concordian”
Student Presenter(s): Amy Carpenter
Mentored by: Dr. Karla Knutson
”Abstract”
The Concordian newspaper prints the news for their fellow students at Concordia College. The news doesn’t just contain stories about what happens on campus, but sometimes off campus. Anything that seems relevant to Concordia College students is printed in this newspaper. This will be an ethnographic study on The Concordian. So, I attend the Sunday evening meetings with the writers and tag along with their interviews to see how they interview/interact with the subjects of their stories. This study will have 24 hours of participant observation and interviews. There are around 13 writers that write for The Concordian and they give what time they can to write for the paper. If they can get away from school or work, they write. Everyone puts their best foot forward and they all work together very well. This research will show this isn’t just a campus newspaper, it’s also a group of friends from different ages, different backgrounds, and with different interests all working together to give the students of Concordia College the news. The hope is that these results will encourage more students to read The Concordian or perhaps join The Concordian.
P20. “Ethnography in The Real World”
Student Presenter(s): Joey Molstre, Annalise Skrade
Mentored by: Dr. Karla Knutson
”Abstract”
Our poster will demonstrate the importance of using the research method of ethnography. Ethnography is data collected through observations and interviews which are then used to conclude how societies and individuals interact with each other. Joey and I worked with different organizations in the surrounding community such as Concordia’s Habitat for Humanity group and Prairie Property Management. Habitat for Humanity’s mission is to build and provide an affordable, stable home for a family in need. Prairie Property’s goal is to provide a pleasing experience when you are looking for a place to call home. We used participant observation at meetings and interviews with our various group members. After shadowing these different people, we can identify their different work, work ethic, and interactions with people. We are in hopes to see how different people interact within the different cultures that they surround themselves in. Our overall purpose is to show how ethnography is an important and effective research method.
P21. “A Suggestion for Concordia College on Adopting a Policy to Support Lifelong Learning”
Student Presenter(s): Bree Sheridan, Raquel Egge, Sydney Olson, Hadlie Dahlseid
Mentored by: Dr. Philip Lemaster
”Abstract”
Lifelong learning is the continuous, self-motivated pursuit of knowledge for personal growth that benefits many areas of well-being, especially as we reach older adulthood (Laal, 2012). However, our society associates learning and education with younger generations, which can be detrimental to older adults who share the same goal. This makes it hard for older adults to access education and experience the same benefits that younger adults do. This can create a disparity between older and younger generations, resulting in stereotypes and a perpetuating stigma associated with aging. In this presentation, we review the recent academic literature and research on the benefits and prevalence of lifelong learning in older adulthood. First, we explain what is considered lifelong learning, and its benefits along with many aspects of well-being and successful aging. Next, we describe the benefits of intergenerational communication, which can be promoted by lifelong learning. Finally, we propose empirically supported strategies for promoting lifelong learning in our community, drawing on our first two points to lay out the benefits across generations. Our project’s next step proposes that Concordia College use its empty classroom seats to accommodate older adults seeking to continue their educational journey. This research lays the groundwork for real-world application of lifelong learning.
P22. “Intergenerational Relationships: Bridging the Gap”
Student Presenter(s): Jaxon Dewald, Kelly Pudwill, Sophie Mickelson, Dayana Ramsay
Mentored by: Dr. Philip Lemaster
”Abstract”
Locally and nationally, there are widening social gaps between generations of younger and older adults. Multiple factors contribute to this problem, including demographic changes, evolving forms of communication and technology, structural barriers, and negative stereotypes about older people that discourage younger people from seeking connections with elders. The purpose of our presentation is to narrow the gap between youth and the elderly by describing research on the importance and benefits of intergenerational programs. First, we explain why volunteerism is important and what the incentives are for the volunteers in these programs, regardless of the age and occupations of those who volunteer for intergenerational programs. Next, we overview programs that have sought to connect people across generations in meaningful ways. By reviewing studies that span the globe and use different methodologies, we highlight the consistencies in intergenerational programs, effective procedures to maximize benefits, and some limitations of such programs. Lastly, we draw on this work and propose a potential intergenerational program that could be implemented by Concordia College for the benefit of local older adults and students who volunteer for the program.
P23. “Preparing The African American Spiritual”
Student Presenter(s): Matthew Mortensen
Mentored by: Dr. Jennifer Nash
”Abstract”
The African American Spiritual is, at its core, a type of folk song that developed through enslaved African Americans between their arrival in America in 1619, and the end of slavery in 1860. These songs embody their stories of life, death, faith, hope, escape, and survival. In their original form, Spirituals were passed down orally through generations in the plantation fields, in churches and in camp meetings, and are just now beginning to be embraced by singers of all races on concert series and recital programs around the world. Just as the performance of German Lieder and French Mélodie require thoughtful and thorough preparation, so does the study and performance of African American Spirituals. This poster will offer a study guide for those interested in exploring this repertoire with intentional consideration of appropriation. The guide will include its history and development from the fields to the concert hall, how to interpret the text, ways to prepare the melody for singing, and how to incorporate the use of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) into the text.
P24. “Musicians and ‘Heretics’: Connections between the Troubadours and the Cathars of Medieval France”
Student Presenter(s): Zachary Catalan
Mentored by: Dr. Michael Johnson
”Abstract”
I am exploring the connections between the Cathar and Troubadour movements. Catharism was a religion that was deemed heretical by the church, while the Troubadours were medieval poet-musicians from the Occitan region of Southern France. I am researching possible historical, religious, and sociological reasons for the growth of the Troubadours in the same region as the Cathar movement during the 13th-14th centuries. This research would ultimately contribute to the analysis of influences on the later Troubadour movement and the connection between Cathars and Troubadours, a relationship which has received minimal study. My overall hypothesis is that the Cathar movement influenced the Troubadours to some extent during this period both in lyrical content but also in permitting greater freedom of social, moral and religious expression and practices relative to other areas in France of the time. The heretical Cathar movement provided a social, artistic and religious space for the Troubadour movement to flourish, and perhaps also influenced the music itself. The research process has involved analyzing various works that are focused on aspects of both the Troubadour and Cathar movements and attempting to propose evidence for possible historical connections between the two. Through this work so far, some possible results include an overlap in themes/key concepts of both movements, namely the Troubadour idea of fin’amour (or “courtly love”, of which many Troubadours composed lyrics and melodies about) and paratge (the Troubadour code of honor) and aspects of the Cathar belief system. These beliefs were considered unorthodox and heretical by the dominant Catholic church during the Medieval era.
P25. “Becoming What We Eat: How the Holy Mass Prepares the Laity for Missionary Discipleship”
Student Presenter(s): Claire Dummer, Erika Collins
Mentored by: Dr. Mark Krejci
”Abstract”
In his book, The Joy of the Gospel, Pope Francis calls the Church to take a more active role in missionary discipleship, accompanying others into a deeper relationship with Jesus. Despite taking an active role in the Church, many lay members do not feel equipped to live as missionaries. We argue that, through the Mass, Jesus prepares and sustains the Church in missionary discipleship. We examine the progression of the Mass in detail, including prayers, verses, and rituals. We relate the Mass and its meaning to its role in the laity’s lives. By considering how the Mass prepares people to become missionary disciples, the Church will be more confident in taking on this active role. The laity will feel more prepared to live out Christ’s calling as a Priest, Prophet, and King in the world.
P26. “Investigation into Evidence Base Around New Emergency Department Chest Pain Protocol”
Student Presenter(s): Leo Hanson
Mentored by: Dr. Tally Tinjum
”Abstract”
Chest pain is an urgent condition that presents to emergency care facilities in a dynamic way that goes far beyond just pain in the middle chest. Chest pain also includes pressure, tightness, or discomfort in the chest, shoulders, arms, neck, back, upper abdomen, or jaw as well as shortness of breath and fatigue. These clinical presentations are combined with patient risk factors, adjacent presenting symptoms, and demographics to determine a patient’s risk for myocardial infarctions with chest pain. This risk determines if a patient is to undergo an automatic protocol that generates generic and standard orders for patients before being assessed by a physician. For this determination to be made ED nurses must understand the purpose of protocol orders to accurately assign patients these orders. Research into the change of protocol and the evidence behind it is important information for nurses to understand and have access to, to lead to the best results from said protocol. The results of the study are to be a summary of protocol change, the rationalization for change, and a discussion on how it affects what patients should meet new protocol criteria.
P27. “Plasma Donation Center Potential to Act as a Community Resource”
Student Presenter(s): Gendra-Marleen Aasmaa
Mentored by: Dr. Tally Tinjum
”Abstract”
This paper attempts to review current research and consider the plasma donation outcomes from an interdisciplinary approach. Exploring the modern world of plasma donation including ethics and trends while pointing out concerning research gaps and identifying potential interventions to enhance donor and community health. Around 17 million plasma donations take place in the United States each year, providing 55% of the world’s source plasma supply. In the United States donors may donate up to 104 times a year, while donating up to 800ml of plasma each donation (Farrugia, A. et al. 2010). The long-term outcomes of high volume and frequency plasmapheresis are largely unknown; however, it has been identified that US source plasma has lower manufacturing quality as proteins and immunoglobulins deplete over time when undergoing high-frequency plasma donations demonstrating a concern for donor hemostasis and health outcomes (Laub et al., 2010). The paper aims to demonstrate the risk of exploitative donor dependency on plasma donation compensation by highlighting the strategic placement of plasma centers in low-income areas. Finally, possible healthcare initiatives such as nutritional education and access, vaccinations, and health screenings are discussed as techniques to enhance the safety and life quality of high-frequency plasma donors to support the most vulnerable donor populations, demonstrating the potential for a plasma donation center to be used as a community health center.
P28. “Determinants of Oncology Health in Spanish-speaking countries”
Student Presenter(s): McKenna Becher, Gabriela Castro
Mentored by: Karin Hillstrom
”Abstract”
We are two students that are getting an education in the healthcare field, and we are also both taking the Spanish class for Healthcare Professionals. We are researching about what impacts the diagnosis of cancer in Spanish-speaking areas compared to the United States. We are arguing that there is a cultural influence, as well as a socioeconomic influence on one’s health, leading to fewer cancer diagnosis from a lack of healthcare accessibility and knowledge in Spanish-speaking countries. We are using evidence-based information from research databases. We are anticipating a lot of overlap between contributions to health between the U.S. and Spanish-speaking countries, but we are expecting a difference in educational levels.
P29. “Curanderismo Contemporaneo: An Examination of Contemporary Curanderismo in the US”
Student Presenter(s): Josh Kramer, Gavin Bakke
Mentored by: Karin Hillstrom
”Abstract”
For many in the Spanish speaking world, seeking advice from a medical professional comes after visiting healers. As these people move throughout the world, traditions that started before the arrival of Europeans in the Americas have become more and more prevalent in the US and in contemporary modes necessitating an examination. Understanding the attitudes towards modern medical procedures and folk medicine among latino patients in the US can help bridge long standing gaps in cross-cultural healthcare. Curanderismo is vital to the intercultural communication and understanding of latino patients in the US healthcare system. This research was done by examining the education of curanderismo, both in an academic setting and professional setting, and the current integration and use of curanderismo in contemporary US healthcare.
P30. “Studying the Healthcare Industry”
Student Presenter(s): David Dorsey, Jacoby Nold, Robert Leslie, Jacob Parmer, Abby Eidsness
Mentored by: Dr. Shontarius Aikens
”Abstract”
The healthcare industry in the United States is one of the largest and most complex economies, which makes up 18% of GDP in 2020. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 28 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all other occupations. The healthcare industry can provide many benefits to our communities and country. The purpose for our research was to identify what draws people to healthcare management and how they track and maintain high standards of success. During our research, we collected interviews from 25 healthcare management professionals in many different areas of the country. The interviews were conducted in person and over the phone, and the interviewees were asked questions that pertained to our research. We found that most managers in this industry take these positions in order to better their teams and better care for civilians. Many managers prioritize communication with their teams in order to provide the best quality care. Majority of healthcare companies in the US have standardized written procedures and patient feedback. This is beneficial for managers to perform tasks to the same quality as required and ensure patient satisfaction through automated surveys. In conclusion, the promise of meaningful leadership and the regulation of the healthcare industry helps keep a high standard of care for all patients.
P31. “Life and Work at the Fargo Police Department”
Student Presenter(s): Caden Nestler
Mentored by: Dr. Karla Knutson
”Abstract”
Society holds a lot of stereotypes and preconceptions about the police, but few people have had a chance to be in a police station and spend time with the officers. Through ethnographic fieldwork, interviews, and participant observation research tactics, I hope to unearth the lives of police officers and other employees of the Fargo Police Department. Over the course of this project, I am spending significant time with officers at the police station, on security operations, and on patrol through ride-alongs during day, evening and night shifts. Through conversation, interviewing, and simple observation, I hope to be able to better understand and explain who these people are and why they have chosen this as their profession as well as create an accurate portrait of the mindsets, culture, and lifestyle of the current police force in Fargo. The project will culminate in a poster presentation and an ethnographic essay, which will serve as a written documentary of the research and fieldwork.
P32. “The Impact of Poverty on Youth Crime Rates”
Student Presenter(s): Levi Gross, Tanner Olson, Terry Kreps
Mentored by: Dr. Michelle Lelwica
”Abstract”
The topic we are focusing on is the intersection of poverty and youth crime; with an emphasis in understanding how this relationship challenges stereotypes revolving around juveniles involved in criminal activities. The oppressed group that our research will focus on is “delinquent” youth living in impoverished conditions. The goal of our research is to learn how poverty impacts youth crime, and how understanding this influence challenges stereotypes about kids who get in trouble with the law. Stereotypes surrounding youth delinquency often fail to consider the factors (such as poverty) affecting such young people. It is only in understanding these contexts that we can create long-term change that both challenges these stigmas and supports better youth outcomes. Our research will consist of peer reviewed sources, academic sources, and firsthand scenarios from children at the West Central Regional Juvenile Center. We anticipate that there will be a direct correlation with youth living in impoverished conditions, and the rate of crime we see within those youth.
P33. “Analyzing the Relationship between Childhood Trauma and the Likelihood of Committing Sexual Crimes in Adulthood”
Student Presenter(s): Clara Rooney, Cole Cook, Frederick Robin
Mentored by: Dr. Michelle Lelwica
”Abstract”
Our project will discuss the correlation of traumatized children with their probability of committing sexual crimes after adolescence. Children who have been victimized in sexual crimes are more likely to commit sexual crimes later in their adolescence and into adulthood. This research will be conducted through a critical analysis of various research articles. The articles will focus on individuals with records of sexual offense who also have traumatic childhoods, as well as the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on the prevalence of violence in adulthood. Additionally, research will include studies investigating productivity of sex offender treatment programs. Statistical data will be taken into consideration to address our research question and to determine the correlation between sexual assault and childhood trauma. We anticipate that a correlation exists between number of adverse childhood experiences and sexual assault crimes committed in adulthood.
P34. “Objection, Your Honor! An Analysis of Contemporary Courtroom Dramas and Their Portrayals of Race, Gender, and Common Courtroom Stereotypes”
Student Presenter(s): Mykaela Zola
Mentored by: Dr. Indira Neill Hoch
”Abstract”
Objection, your honor! This line can be heard throughout many courtroom television dramas, urging viewers to come to a guilty or not guilty verdict, ultimately deciding which side of the courtroom is good and which side is evil. These media representations directly affect the way in which the public perceives realistic courtroom proceedings, often misunderstanding many portions of a proper trial. I aim to address two research questions throughout my presentation. Firstly, what themes are present media representations of the modern courtroom, including courtroom behavior stereotypes among lawyers and other officers of the law. And secondly, in what ways do the race and gender of characters play a role in these types of media? For my presentation, I intend to analyze various pieces of courtroom media, finding present themes to discuss, as well as complete a literature review on the themes discovered through my analysis. Throughout my media analysis, I anticipate finding a variety of themes. I believe there will be a pattern regarding the race and gender of the people shown in power positions. Through prior analysis of other literature, I also foresee a discussion on the CSI Effect, which is the jury’s understanding of how much forensic evidence is obtained, utilized, and presented within a realistic courtroom setting. Finally, I believe I’ll be able to address my question regarding what stereotypes are emphasized in various forms of courtroom media, and how those relate to the race and/or gender of the characters.
P35. “Exploring the Role of Emotional Stimuli in Visual Working Memory Binding”
Student Presenter(s): Megan Olson
Mentored by: Dr. Dwight Peterson
”Abstract”
Capacity limitations associated with visual working memory (VWM) are well-documented. However, it remains unclear whether bound representations stored in VWM require more attentional resources compared to single features stored in VWM. Recent approaches to manipulate attention within the context of a VWM task have leveraged emotion-inducing stimuli (Garcia-Pacios et al., 2015; Xie & Zhang, 2016). The present study investigated whether unpleasant (relative to neutral) emotion-inducing stimuli disrupt the storage of bound representations to a greater extent compared to the storage of single-features in VWM. During a VWM change detection task participants viewed four colored shapes followed by an emotion-inducing image (unpleasant or neutral) during the maintenance period of the task. At test, participants were probed with either a single color, a single shape, or a single colored-shape. An overall emotion-interference effect was observed wherein VWM performance was lower during trials in which an unpleasant image was presented during the maintenance period compared to trials in which a neutral image was presented. Moreover, performance was highest in the color-only condition, followed by the shape-only condition, and, finally, was lowest in the color-shape binding condition. As predicted, the largest emotion-interference effect (i.e., unpleasant compared to neutral trials) was observed during tests of color-shape binding. These results suggest that unpleasant images capture attentional resources, which occurs at the expense of binding processes carried out by the VWM system.
P36. “The Efficacy of Gifted and Talented Education”
Student Presenter(s): Katrina Ustanko
Mentored by: Dr. Karla Knutson
”Abstract”
The education of future generations is vital to the progression of society, and in recent decades gifted and talented (G&T) education programs have been created to provide children supplemental curriculum to flourish their high intellectual and creative abilities. However, how have these programs affected the children they seek to benefit? Does G&T education equitably aid elementary school students, or do they create unnecessary wedges between students and their non-G&T classmates while providing a laborious curriculum? I am conducting multiple sessions of field research by sitting in on multiple classroom sessions at Kennedy Elementary School, Fargo, and interviewing students that are placed in the gifted and talented program, observing the positive and negative impacts of said program on student’s performance academically, mentally, and socially. Following my research, I will synthesize my findings to discover how the G&T program is defined compared to standard classrooms, what the main needs of G&T students are, and how effective the program is at addressing their needs. I then will share these findings with a poster presentation reporting on the successes and shortcomings of the current state of G&T education in Fargo; in what ways it is sufficient, and what areas need improvement to be truly beneficial to its students.
P37. “The Evil Eye: An Analysis of Mal de Ojo in Latin America”
Student Presenter(s): Alissa Edjacin, Olivia Brault
Mentored by: Karin Hillstrom
”Abstract”
The Evil Eye (Mal de ojo) is a deeply rooted belief in Latin America as a malevolent gaze that can cause illnesses, misfortune, and imbalances in people’s lives. It is believed to stem from the transfer of negative energy from one person to another (De Vechi 14). Many times mal de ojo is inflicted upon infants, but it can be given to adults as well. When adults are inflicted with mal de ojo, it can affect their overall health, even though it stems from superstition. The anxiety and paranoia that is caused by mal de ojo can upset a person’s way of life and changes the way that patients can be treated at the doctor’s office (El Diario La Prensa). While it is a common concept in Latin America, Mal de ojo has a diversity of interpretations and practices and remedies in different Latin American cultures. This research will try to showcase the richness and complexity of local traditions in Mexico, Colombia among other countries in Latin America. Specific cases, treatments and rituals from two ethnographic first source material will be analyzed to understand the depth of this belief that is embedded in the collective psyche. Furthermore, this study will explore how mal de ojo has evolved in the contemporary context, examining its presence in media, art, and everyday practices and the effect of globalization on its meaning and treatment in the present day.
P38. “Empathy is Hard: a Replication Study”
Student Presenter(s): Hanna Walica
Mentored by: Dr. Mona Ibrahim
”Abstract”
Empathy is an important life skill in interactions with other people. A study by Cameron et al., (2019) suggested that empathy is hard work which causes people to avoid it when they are able to. In that study participants selected 40 cards from one of two decks, one called “feel” and the other called “describe”. After each card is selected participants were shown a picture of a child and asked to write a sentence either describing what the child feels or what the child looks like. After the 40-question survey, participants took the NASA Task Load Index (Hart & Staveland, 1988) in which they reported the effort, aversion and efficacy of both tasks. Cameron et al. reported that people tended to find the “feel” task to be more cognitively costly than the “describe” task and to choose the describe task more often than the feel task. Replicating studies is important as it can provide confirmation of the previous research and important information about the external validity of the research findings. We conducted a replication of the study described above and we added an extension to examine if gender plays a role in choosing to be empathic. Our extension hypothesis was based on prior research which found that women tend to be more empathic than men. We recruited 57 participants to complete an online Qualtrics survey. Within-subjects t-tests confirmed the original finding by Cameron et al. However, gender did not seem to play a role in this selection.
P39. “Thanks :): Perceived Professionalism of Emoji and Emoticon Usage in Emails”
Student Presenter(s): Jordon Perkins
Mentored by: Dr. Aileen Buslig
”Abstract”
Formal netiquette (internet etiquette) guides state that emoticons (like :), :(, and :\) and emoji (like 🙂, 🙁, and 😐) are seen as unprofessional in emails, but previous research has shown that they are still being used. Because of this, I believe that emoticons and emoji are seen as at least somewhat professional by email communicators. This study investigates the perceived professionalism of emoticons and emoji in emails, and the contexts in which these pictograms are deemed appropriate. The research employs a quantitative method and collects data through surveys of students and employees about their personal experience with and perception of emoticons and emoji in professional emails. I predict that findings will show that emoticons and emoji are used in emails, are somewhat professional, used exclusively in positive contexts, and show differences in use and perception between gender identities and age groups. I also predict that emoticons are viewed as more professional than emoji in emails because of emoji’s vibrant colorings. The results will show changing attitudes in digital communication and help create a more nuanced view of netiquette.
P40. “Pollinators Preference on Sugar Solution and Color”
Student Presenter(s): Mohamed Mustafa
Mentored by: Dr. Mike Bush
”Abstract”
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, of every three bites of food we eat, one bite of it exists due to animal pollinators (USDA, n.d.). We should keep in mind that “honeybees alone pollinate 80 percent of all flowering plants, including more than 130 types of fruits and vegetables” (Randall, 2020). If honeybees alone are pollinating to this extent, imagine how much influence insect pollinators as a whole have on plant growth. We can agree that pollinators are a significant part of our ecosystem; however, we don’t fully understand why pollinators choose certain plants or whether they choose at all. In this study we observed whether pollinating insects prefer certain sugar concentrations over another in their natural habitat. We hypothesize that all pollinators will prefer higher concentrations of sugar water as opposed to lower concentrations of sugar water. We also hypothesize that the pollinators we observe will prefer the color yellow over blue. To conduct our experiment, we prepared different concentrations of sugar water as well as mere water as our control. Each concentration was transferred to one yellow plastic portion cup, and one blue plastic portion cup, then placed in close proximity to each other at the experiment site. We collected our data by observing which concertation and color pollinators appeared to consume from. We continued this process for five days, collecting data for about one hour each day. Our finding show that our alternative hypothesis is not fully supported due to insignificant p and F values.
P41. “Exploring Different Recipes For New Chitosan And Alginate Bioplastics”
Student Presenter(s): Favziya Rasulova
Mentored by: Dr. Graeme Wyllie
”Abstract”
Plastics pose a huge threat to the environment with particular concern focusing on microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles found in drinkable water and human breast milk. In the Wyllie lab we study bioplastics, which are made of renewable plant or animal-derived biopolymers. These naturally break down in various environments by being enzymatically digested by naturally occurring microorganisms that live in soil or water. Our bioplastics are typically made from two polysaccharides: chitosan and alginate. Chitosan is a fibrous compound derived from chitin, which is found in crustacean and insect shells. Alginate is a naturally occurring anionic polymer obtained from seaweed. These polysaccharides are long chain molecules that can form cross-links connecting the separate strands. In my research, I have investigated new ways to make new bioplastics by testing different recipes, which expand upon the original protocol used in general chemistry labs at Concordia College. Initially, the cross-linking lactic acid was substituted by different acids to determine their cross-linking efficiency. The second series of experiments examined whether we could create new and better forms of bioplastics by adding additional polysaccharides such as starches and cellulose or non-polysaccharides such as glycerol or collagen. The last experiments explored whether bioplastics could still be made if chitosan or alginate were substituted with other polysaccharides such as tapioca starch. In addition to making these bioplastics we looked at subsequent hydration following the initial drying. Since bioplastics usually take a week to dry, we wanted to see if they would return to their original state upon immersion.
P42. “Assessing Microplastic Concentrations in the Gastrointestinal Tracts and Fecal Matter of Tree and Ground Squirrels (Sciuridae) found in Urban and Rural Habitats.”
Student Presenter(s): Yuden Dorji, Fatima Mohammed, Mubina Rasul, Favziya Rasulova
Mentored by: Dr. Joseph Whittaker
”Abstract”
Microplastics, tiny plastic particles (MPs, <5mm), are a threat to ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Microplastics can result in gastrointestinal blockages, scrapes, and put and jeopardize animal’s digestive health, behavior, and survival. Ingesting microplastics can disrupt an animal’s feeding behavior, leading to reduced nutrient acquisition and malnutrition or starvation. Previous studies have observed MPs in mammalian liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal (GI) tracts. In our ongoing study we aim to investigate MP content in three different tree squirrel species, the American Red Squirrel, Eastern Gray Squirrel, and Eastern Fox Squirrels, and two ground squirrels, the Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel and Franklin’s Ground Squirrel. We hypothesize that urban squirrels will exhibit higher levels of MPs and that there will not be a difference between the number of MPs in ground versus tree squirrels. Our research examines gut content from feces of live-trapped squirrels and gastrointestinal tracts (GITs) from salvaged squirrels. Each sample was chemically digested using 10% KOH, filtered and examined using a dissection microscope. While there is high variability, there is a trend for more plastic in the guts of rural squirrels, but highest levels of plastic were collected from urban gray squirrels. Tree squirrels had significantly more microplastics than ground squirrels, thus far. We will obtain a small section of the gut to analyze its microbial content. Bacteria from each gut sample will be cultured and sent for further analysis. We hypothesize that higher MP levels in the gut may correspond to reduced diversity and fewer beneficial bacteria.
Each poster will have a number displayed on it. In Poster Session 1, poster number P01. will be in the northeast corner of the Centrum. Poster numbers P36. – P42. will be in the atrium.
In Poster Session 2, poster number P43 will be in the northeast corner of the Centrum and poster numbers P78 – P84 will be in the atrium.