Senior Honors Presentations - Class of 2023

Characterizing the Binding Interactions that Target a DNA Repair Complex to Damage Sites

Abstract: DNA damage requires precise repair mechanisms in a timely manner to maintain genomic integrity. The ALKBH3-ASCC complex is a DNA alkylation damage repair complex that binds to K63-linked polyubiquitin chains that assemble at damage sites. We are using biochemistry and other structural techniques to analyze selective binding between K63-linked diubiquitin and subunits in the complex.

Alcohol Cosumption and its Effects on the Mental Health of College Students at Mount St. Mary's

Abstract: The goal of the project is to gauge the effect binge drinking on the already declining mental health of college students at Mount St. Mary's.

Roots

Abstract: African tribes use their hair to signify gender, status, and nationality. When they forcibly migrated here, their hair became an artifact of their home. The Roots exhibition celebrates the beauty of these styles and their persistence in today's black hair culture.

The Assessment of MicroRNA-34 in Caenorhabditis elegans

Abstract: This research attempts to uncover how MicroRNA-34 (mirRNA-34) directly relates to an organism’s learning capacity. Specifically, in Alzheimer’s patients, miRNA-34 is overexpressed, causing a decrease in cognitive ability. By studying miRNA-34 in Caenorhabditis elegans, we can understand more about the relationship between cognitive ability and miRNA-34.

Integrative Modelling of the ASCC2:K63Ub2 Complex to Better Understand DNA Alkylation Damage Repair

Abstract: The ASCC2 CUE domain of the ALKBH3:ASCC complex binds to K63-linked polyubiquitin chains with enhanced affinity compared to other ubiquitin linkages. To characterize this interaction, integrative modeling is utilized to visualize the binding interface of the ASCC2:K63Ub2 complex by combining data from NMR, ITC, and SAXS experimentation.

The Bane of Unintended Consequences: The Nursing Profession and COVID-19

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a strong impact on the nursing profession that has completely altered the workplace for current and future nurses. This is a mixed-methods study that takes into account quantative data that reflects these changes as well as uses interviews of local nurses who worked through the pandemic who shared their personal experience.

On Depiction: Neurodivergence in Literature

Abstract: This paper investigates how neurodivergence was represented in literature before scientific terminology existed to describe it. To this end, two examples of historic literature that contain possible instances of neurodivergent “coding” and one example of modern literature that contains explicit representation are discussed in depth.

Historical Social Stratification vs Modern Society: Japan, North Korea, and India

Abstract: Historical social stratification has been used to categorize human society throughout our history in various forms such as slavery, indentured servitude, and the caste system. The majority of the world has omitted such systems, yet some countries still have them in place, such as India and North Korea. This project asks why India and North Korea have stayed consistent in their strict use of caste systems while other countries have not.

Superfood Stroop: The Effect of Beetroot on Cognitive Performance

Abstract: This study assesses the effect on college-aged students who take a 400 mg beetroot nitrate shot two hours prior to completing a Stroop task.

Securing Supremacy Without Senseless Slaughter: An Economic Analysis of Sanctions During Wartime

Abstract: This project gauges the effectiveness of economic weapons compared to those of physical combat to determine whether bloodshed is the most effective way to defeat a foreign advisory.

Where Media Analysis and Literary Theory Meet: A Queer and Feminist Viewing of Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Abstract: An analysis of how Buffy the Vampire Slayer is an expression of feminist and queer theory in late 90’s/early 00’s fantasy television.

Award-Winning Picture Books and Their Representation of Diverse Families

Abstract: This study answered the question, “Are award-winning picture books representative of diverse family structures of the 21st century through the lens of the ‘Mirrors and Windows Theory’?” One hundred and one award-winning picture books were scored and analyzed to determine family structures. The results informed educators in choosing diverse materials.

How Social Media is Re-shaping Productivity Within the Business World

Abstract: The rapid grown of social media over the past decade has re-shaped productivity in the business world in both positive and negative ways. Survey results help support the claim that the emerging work force finds social media to impact their productivity negatively.

Can a Chatbot Recommend Books?

Abstract: Can chatbots operate as recommendation agents? Through the exploration of different recommendation agents, such as goodreads.com and Amazon, this project defines what a chatbot needs to operate successfully without any introduced bias. Through exploring entity extraction, Natural Language Processing applications, and Lemmatization, it is clear that a book recommendation chatbot is plausible.

Investigating the Role of ASCC1 in the ASCC Protein Complex

Abstract: The goal of this project is to determine how the protein, ASCC1, performs its enzymatic activity as it relates to its protein complex with ASCC2 and ASCC3. It is known that ASCC1 cleaves peptide bonds at a CUE domain.

Multiple Personality Disorder Among Criminals and Preventative Measures

Abstract: This project raises awarewness of issues with psychological disorders and the criminal justice system. The primary question addressed is whether criminals who claim they have multiple personality disorders truly suffer and lack awareness of their offense or whether they are using it to cheat a prison sentence.

The COVID-19 Pandemic and Divorce: A Cross Sectional Analysis

Abstract: This project seeks to examine the changes in marital status (particularly divorce) due to the pandemic and how that has affected certain demographic groups using 2018 and 2021 General Social Survey Data.

Corporate Psychology: profiling the white-collar criminal

Abstract: This project examines the importance of behavioral forensics and criminal profiling in the field of forensic accounting, including identifying the psychological patterns behind the white-collar criminal, the decision-making process that leads to fraudulent behavior, and the elements of the modern business world that allow this fraud to flourish.

Does Parent Engagement Facilitate Young Children’s Socioemotional Behaviors in both Spanish- and English-speaking Families

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic created stressful experiences especially for low-income Hispanic parents in the United States. A survey of 25 Spanish speaking families from a low-resourced community and 25 English speaking families from a well-resourced community sheds light on parent engagement and the resilience of young children in both groups.

Mindfulness in Business Management and Wellness Programs

Abstract: Mindfulness is a rapidly growing concept and practice in the business world as managers are putting a heavier emphasis on wellness programs in the workplace. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) specifically is studied in terms of return on investment and opportunity cost while weighing other wellness programs.

Blockchain and Its Potential Future Benefit to the Accounting Profession

Abstract: Blockchain is an emerging technology that was first implemented with cryptocurrencies, but now possible uses of blockchain are being explored for use in all fields of business.

The Effect of Mutated microRNAs on Nicotine Preference in C. elegans

Abstract: C. elegans have a weak innate preference for nicotine, and previous research found microRNAs are impacted by exposure to nicotine in C. elegans. We conducted experiments with two microRNAs impacted, one that is upregulated and one downregulated, to determine how this effects nicotine preference.

The Mythological Figure of the Tengu in Japanese Culture

Abstract: This paper discusses a creature of great significance in Japanese mythology. The tengu, although easily viewed as a simple product of fantasy, holds great insights into many aspects of Japanese culture. The tengu is an important figure in religious and martial traditions, and it appears repeatedly throughout Japanese mythology.

Is There a Method to March Madness?

Abstract: The NCAA Basketball Tournament is one of the most popular sporting events in the United States, for reasons such as school pride, upsets, and filling out brackets. The quest for the perfect bracket has proved elusive to all those who have tried, but maybe it can be answered with statistics.

Computational Creativity: An Artificially Intelligent Machine’s Capacity for Creation

Abstract: The question of computational creativity has been pondered by many. In this paper, a definition of creativity will be defined and, through a study of computer programs through the lenses of art, literature, and music, I will pursue my goal to prove that computers have the capacity to be creative.

Administration of Caffeine to Enhance Regenerative Growth

Abstract: Immediately following traumatic SCI, changes at the cellular level begin to occur, signaling for cell death and destruction. The body responds rapidly, leading to a need for therapeutics. Previous studies have found caffeine successful in promoting regeneration in animal models. This study will analyze how caffeine affects regeneration in planaria.

Geographical Characterization of Antibiotic Resistance in Soil Bacteria Across Field Types

Abstract: Antibiotic resistance is a global epidemic that is the root of many infectious concerns. Soil bacteria are resistant to some current antibiotic treatments. Antibiotic resistance across land geography and usage types was analyzed to see if select land usage methods increase antibiotic resistance.

Money Laundering in Entertainment

Abstract: A content analysis on how money laundering is portrayed in entertainment. I will analyze two different shows to determine whether the entertainment industry uses the correct methods when portraying money laundering.

An Advocacy Coalition Framework Approach to School Voucher Policy: A Descriptive & Comparative Study of Ohio and Louisiana at the State and National Level

Abstract: This research is a descriptive and comparative study using the Advocacy Coalition Framework approach to study the use of vouchers in Ohio and Louisiana. This project will include an in-depth analysis of the different interest groups that act within these states and determine if competition influences policy impact and change.

Creating a Creole Caribbean

Abstract: Two Caribbean authors, Jean Rhys and Sam Selvon, represent two stylistic approaches to language in their novels Wide Sargasso Sea and The Lonely Londoners. The way both authors choose to use creole languages deconstructs European linguistic attitudes and reflects an authentic West Indian narrative within postcolonial discourse.

Are Students Understanding What They are Learning? An In-depth Look at the Mathematics Curriculum in the American Education System

Abstract: This research project asks whether students are meeting the mathematics curriculum expectations for the grade and subject they are in, or whether there is a disconnect between the students and administrators that provide these expectations.

The Power of Technology in the Accounting World

Abstract: As new technology is introduced to the accounting profession, the role of the accountant improves. This paper identifies the accounting platforms that are driving change within the profession. Findings were examined according to area of specialization, firm size, and position within the company.

Determining the Optimal pH for the Extraction of Iso-Alpha Acids from Hops (humulus lupulus) During the Beer Brewing Process

Abstract: Hops, the most expensive ingredient in beer, contain alpha acids. By developing a procedure with a basic buffer, hops can be utilized more efficiently. This project seeks to determine the ideal pH at which to brew beer to optimize hops usage.

Minorities within Law Enforcement

Abstract: This research project looks at the underrepresentation of women and minority races within the the white male-dominated field of law enforcement and looks to develop reasons for this underrepresentation and provide possible solutions.

Sexual Harassment in Education and Workplace

Abstract: Sexual harassment is a dangerous crime against humanity because it causes catastrophic consequences to the victims. Victims who face sexual harassment in education or the workplace suffer physical and psychological distress. This project proposes methods to combat this dangerous crime in societies.

Mental Illnesses and Crimes

Abstract: Mental illnesses and serious mental illnesses could expose the diseased, and the people surrounding them, to danger. It is proven that mentally ill people can be aggressive toward others. This project provides an analysis of substance abuse effects on the increasing violence in the mentally ill.

The Meaning of Words: How Therapy-Speak is Changing How We Communicate

Abstract: The English Language is constantly evolving. From the middle ages to the modern era, the English language has undergone various changes in syntax, phonology, and word articulation which have all fundamentally changed how we communicate with one another. While these changes have historically unfolded over extended periods of time — usually centuries, the more recent introduction of technology, especially in the last century has significantly sped up this process. Words that were once reserved in specific contexts have made their way into everyday communication, thus altering the way those words are used in everyday communication. This paper focuses on one such change, the use of psychoanalytic language in everyday novels and how that influences our perception of and use of such language. Through computational linguistics methods, this paper will track the changes in psychoanalytic language use in literature and what that may mean for the future of communication and interpretation of such language in the English Language.

America’s Rape Kit Backlog: Is it the Result of Gender Bias?

Abstract: America has an ongoing miscarriage of justice in the form of thousands of rape kits that sit on shelves across the country. Rather than a lack of resources and policies, perhaps it is a lack of regard for crimes of sexual violence that has perpetuated America’s rape kit backlog.

Predicting Skies Unknown: Using VAR to Model Air Travel Trends

Abstract: Air travel has created an interconnected world. What factors affect how many people travel by air? The presentation synthesizes economic data, theory, and research on the airline industry with machine learning vector autoregressive models, in order to predict future trends and the effect of shocks on passenger travel.

A Novel Synthesis for Pyrylium Salts for Applications in Transtion Metal Catalysis

Abstract: Pyrylium Salts display attractive photoredox properties, but their use has been limited due to their difficult synthesis. This work describes a novel method for the synthesis of substituted triphenyl pyrylium salts. This more tunable synthesis was employed for the synthesis of novel pyrylium ligands for iridium catalysis.

The Effect of Muting Lin-4 on Cognitive Ability in C. elegans

Abstract: In this experiment, a chemotaxis assay was used to assess the role that microRNA-125 has on cognitive ability in C. elegans.

Meanderings of a Pícaro: The Transcultural Appearance of the Continental Picaresque in Modern Africa and Latin America

Abstract: The Spanish picaresque novel captured the European imagination for its critique of society from the voice of a marginal figure: the pícaro. This paper examines, yet again, the transcultural movement of the picaresque genre to modern Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America through a study of Petit Piment and La historia de mis dientes.

Intervention and Non-Intervention Into Genocide

Abstract: It appears that United States intervention into genocide is often highly selective. This project explores the extent and causes of that selectivity.

Authenticity, Prudence, and Catholic Instagram Influencers

Abstract: Influencers utilize the platform of Instagram to post their thoughts, snapshots of their day, and aesthetic content relevant to their projected audience. When Catholics use this approach on Instagram so as to evangelize, what roles do authenticity and prudence play in how and what they should post?

VPNs: Security and Privacy, or Smoke and Mirrors?

Abstract: With the intent of determining the overall effectiveness of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and its benefits, I ask whether a VPN truly provides security and privacy and at what cost.

Pandemic Deficit? Teacher Perspectives in One School

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted education. This project explores the differences in teacher persecptives on student achivement from before and after the pandemic.

From Transaction to Trust: Mitigating Risk in Retail Point-of-Sale Systems

Abstract: Point-of-sale (POS) systems have become an integral part of modern life. They are the centerpiece of any digital transaction and responsible for managing inventory and customer data. Insuring that sensitive data is handled appropriately and proper measures are taken to insure business continuity are important in creating a secure system. This project finds the balance between performance and security for enterprise POS systems.

Water Computers: Fluidic Logic Gates

Abstract: Logic gates are the material device that performs specific Boolean functions and logical operations. Usually, they are made of semiconductors and make use of high and low voltages to transport data. However, logic gates can be made using fluids, with high and low voltages being substituted with high or low pressure.

The Impact of Therapeutic Horticulture on the Lives of People with Disabilities

Abstract: This project combines relevant research and interviews in order to analyze the impact of therapeutic horticultural activities on the lives of young people with disabilities.

The Impact on Reversal Behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans due to Changes in Glutamate Receptors Activity Caused by Cortisol

Abstract: Corticosterone, the stress hormone in most invertebrates, largely impacts locomotion through the glutamate receptors. One key indication of changes to glutamate receptors is reversal behavior frequency changes compared to worms without corticosterone exposure. It is hypothesized that high stress levels will decrease reversals whereas acute stress will increase these reversals.