Download abstract book - Concordia College

COSS 2017
Abstracts
Poster and Concurrent Sessions
5 April 2017
Concordia College
Moorhead, Minnesota
CONCURRENT SESSIONS PRESENTATIONS
Oral Presentation Number: C01
How Big Data is Perpetuating Inequality in the U.S.
Angela Cole
In 2016, Amazon offered Prime same day delivery to many major cities across the country. Millions of
Americans lived in cities where these services were offered. Amazon's reliance on data left out
minority communities. Google, Nikon, and Hewlett-Packard have also received this backlash for their
algorithms perpetuating racism and bias. Society does not question numbers or data because they are
thought to be unbiased. Since the data is collected by humans, who inherently have biases, these
algorithms perpetuate racism that has plagued the United States. Before big data takes over every
aspect of business and ultimately human decisions, we must become aware of the harmful effects of
using big data and how we can fix them. By using social criticism, utilizing case studies, and discourse
analysis, I was able come up with solutions to fix the harmful effects produced by algorithms. Social
criticism is the act of locating reasons for horrible conditions in society. It is a tool in helping fix a flaw
in social structures. Case studies investigate a problem, provide alternative solutions, and propose an
effective solution to the problem. Discourse analysis seeks to analyze written, vocal, or any significant
semiotic event. It is a tool in reading between the lines in regards to a problem and works to create
solutions. By using all three approaches, it was evident that historical data is racist. It was also apparent
that companies working with big data suffer from lack of diversity in their employee pool.
Oral Presentation Number: C02
Critiquing Social Ranks and Ableism Through Literary Adaptation
Shelby Reidle
This project analyzes Diana Peterfreund’s For Darkness Shows the Stars as a proximation, or modern
adaptation, of Jane Austen’s Persuasion. I argue that the purpose of proximation is to make a classic
text more accessible to a modern audience by addressing relevant issues and moral dilemmas.
Peterfreund adds to Austen’s criticism by using the lens of ableism to highlight the issues which arise
when using birth and lineage as a means to award power and status. In both novels, the existing
hierarchal structure is challenged, and using theories of social classism and ableism, this hierarchy and
the methods used to maintain it will be deconstructed. One such method is the use of names and titles
to assign value to individuals based on the rank and family they were born into. Not only do these texts
critique the existing social structure, but they provide an alternative of evaluating people on merit and
character regardless of their social standing.
Oral Presentation Number: C03
Participatory Defense: A Solution to a Systematic Cycle of Inequality or
Perpetuating a Public Defense Problem?
Marina Que
In 1963 the United States Supreme Court ruled on the landmark case of Gideon v. Wainwright, a ruling
that guaranteed the right to counsel. For 54 years, public defenders have advocated for the incarcerated
to ensure that they will get equal justice under the eyes of the law. However, while the population of
incarcerated has grown in the United States at an exponential rate, the number of public defenders that
work to advocate for them, has declined. With states continuing to roll back funding for public defense,
public defenders are facing large workload burdens and limited resources. In order to combat this
inequality in the judicial system, Raj Jayadev created the participatory defense model in 2007. The
goal of the participatory defense model is to educate communities on how to advocate for the
incarcerated, and in doing so, improving the state of the public defense system. While Jayadev's model
seeks to reform the judicial system, the current implementation threatens to continue to perpetuate the
cycle of injustice within the judicial system, rather than provide a solution. Through the examination of
the model, a greater understanding of how participatory defense is transforming judicial engagement.
By applying the model to significant cases, an understanding of how lives are impacted are achieved.
Finally, with this greater understanding of the model, an opportunity to draw critical implications for
the future allows questions to be asked on how the Participatory Defense model really is shaping the
landscape of public defense in the United States.
Oral Presentation Number: C04
Finding Meaning Despite Suffering and Trauma: The Myth of Sisyphus and
the Book of Ecclesiastes
Amanda Nameniuk
How can people who suffer trauma find meaning in life? As children, we are taught that the world is
fair, governments are just, and we reap what we sow. As we grow older the awareness of injustice,
suffering, and death begin to erode these values and call into question the meaning of life. When
suffering and trauma occur, the values and ideals we once held onto for comfort no longer make sense
in an indifferent and chaotic world causing the question of "meaninglessness" to occur. Qoheleth, from
the biblical Book of Ecclesiastes, points out the vanities and indifference of the world by focusing on
death, suffering, and injustice. Despite the admission that human beings exist in an unfair, chaotic
world, he finds hope and meaning anyway focusing on our choices and resilience, even in
overwhelmingly traumatic situations. Albert Camus, an existential philosopher, uses the Greek Myth of
Sisyphus to demonstrate the indifference and suffering of the world, but finds meaning anyways. Both
Camus and Qoheleth proclaim that because of, and despite the suffering, chaos, and injustice of the
world people can find meaning and happiness. By approaching and exploring these two narratives, one
theistic and the other non-theistic, this paper will consider the question of "meaninglessness," a critical
question for our time- not only as an individual mental health concern, but as a community
responsibility for cultivating resilience and encouraging work for justice.
Oral Presentation Number: C05
Examination of Changed Relational Views Post Disclosure of Previous
Romantic Sexual Assault
Shawn Deegan, Sarah Nelson
The purpose of our study is to examine perceived changes a secondary partner may develop in a
romantic relationship post disclosure of previous sexual assault and create a framework for future
research on this subject. The examination of supporting the current partner is one of the most important
aspect of sexual assault recovery due to the ability romantic partners have on influencing the well being
of the survivor. Data collected through an anonymous online survey resulted in insufficient responses;
however, this research lays the foundation for future research, suggestions for improvements, and
discussion of gathered data through the lens of Communication Privacy Management and Dialectical
Tensions.
Oral Presentation Number: C06
Activism Through Mourning: An Analysis of the Syrian Sea Cemetery
Taylor McMillin
This past summer the Syrian Sea Cemetery appeared off the coast of Turkey in the Mediterranean Sea.
This project, through TBWA Istanbul for the humanitarian group Support to Life, is seeking to call
attention to the Syrian refugee crisis. While the project gained attention, it raises the question of how
successful activism through mourning can be. This lead to the research question: Does the Syrian Sea
Cemetery successfully utilize mourning as a form of advocacy? Through an analysis of the project,
using Erin Rand's 2007 article in the Journal of Rhetoric and Public Affairs - "Repeated Remembrance:
Commemorating the AIDS Quilt and Resuscitating the Mourned Subject" the research question is
answered. The Sea Cemetery is analyzed through three tenants: activism through mourning,
unification through memorial, and the bridging of empathy. As memorials continue to pop up to argue
for a cause, it is important for to understand how to create memorials that not only lead to activism, but
respect the mourned subject.
Oral Presentation Number: C07
Sex, Money and Glory: A Comparison of Spending in Intercollegiate
Athletics
Ashlee Ahlrich, Andrew Dosch, Cade Montplaisir
Spending in intercollegiate athletics varies widely across the United States, both between institutions
and among sports teams at single institutions. Assessing athletic department expenditures between
Concordia College varsity sports teams and across the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
allowed us to make a quantitative comparison of these differences. We performed statistical analyses
on a number of spending figures that are made available by the Education in Athletics Disclosure Act,
which requires reporting of athletic expenditures by all coeducational institutions of higher education
who have students receiving federal financial assistance. The analysis of differences in intercollegiate
athletics spending is useful for two main reasons. First, assessing differences in spending between
teams at a single institution can be used as a tool to help ensure compliance with Title IX and provide a
measure of equity. Second, it gives athletic departments the ability to assess the spending power of
their sports programs with schools that they are competing with directly for students and on-field
victories.
Oral Presentation Number: C08
Modernizing Gender Discrepancies from the 19th Century to the 21st
Kaley Sievert, Samantha Peka, Kaitlin Preusser, Jeremy Pierce
The purpose of the Film and Literature course, English 439, was to take students from various
disciplines and use their skills to adapt literature from a different era into a short narrative film. Our
production team chose to adapt "The Story of an Hour", by Kate Chopin, a story encompassing the
oppressive societal expectations of a woman in the household and how she yearns to be free. In our
film adaptation, "The Engineer's Wife", we contemporized the setting of the story and the source of the
oppression: a verbally abusive husband. The purpose of our adaptation was to modernize the gender
discrepancies of the story to make it more relatable to a present day audience. The process to adapt
literature to film included the following roles and steps: writing a screenplay that modernized the
details of the film; creating a storyboard that helped visualize the major scenes; organizing set design to
bring our film to life on the screen; casting actors; filming; editing footage; and using public relation
tactics to network, promote, and advertise the film. While fulfilling these roles, we built relationships
within the Fargo/Moorhead community, analyzed literature, and applied film theory to create our own
artistic interpretation of the story. As new filmmakers, we learned how to overcome obstacles by
utilizing our individual talents and knowledge, and applying the experience we had gathered from this
class and others. Our presentation will include still images and short clips to demonstrate our creative
research and resulting project.
Oral Presentation Number: C09
Wasted Potential: Wes Anderson and the Agency of Female Characters
Allison Cassell, Annika Benson
While Wes Anderson is a visionary in many aspects of cinema, his female characters suffer. Initially,
Anderson attempts to present strong women in their careers, their relationships and with their families,
but often ends up portraying reactive characters whose agency diminishes over the course of the films.
To date, only two of Anderson's films have passed the Bechdel Test, a measure of female presence in
popular motion pictures. This analysis focuses primarily on four of Anderson's female characters.
Felicity from Fantastic Mr. Fox, Agatha from The Grand Budapest Hotel, Eleanor from The Life
Aquatic with Steve Zissou, and Rita from The Darjeeling Limited all demonstrate some level of
character growth in the early stages of their respective movies. They all fall flat in the end, however,
overshadowed by their husbands, children and even death. The potential that all of these women show
throughout the course of their films is set aside and cut short to promote other storylines, ultimately
relegating them to secondary, flatter characters. Beginning as determined women, these characters end
up showing more wasted potential than anything else.
Oral Presentation Number: C10
Can Bullying of Ugly Ducklings be Stopped Altogether?
Matthew Johnson
Why do kids like to bully other kids in school? Does it make them feel powerful? Can it be stopped?
Will it ever be eradicated from our society? Bullying has been around since the dawn of time. Almost
every place you go in our world you will find both those who bully as well as those who are bullied. It
has never vanished, yet evolves with the changes of society. In 1800 the bullying was more physical
than it is now. Well-known people in history, like Hans Christian Andersen, experienced bullying in
school. Today bullying has expanded from the sphere of physical space and time into the world of
cyberspace with the easy access we now have to the internet via computers and phones. The tale of
"The Ugly Duckling" shows how bullying has existed in society for generations. It shows the effects
bullying has on the one who is considered the outcast of society. But it also shows how good
influences of others can counteract the negative effects of bullying. Many studies show how and why
bullying happens. They also show the effects bullying has on both children and adults. The studies
also provide details about anti-bullying programs. Yet, the question remains, does this mean bullying
will be stopped such that there is no longer a need for tales like "The Ugly Duckling?"
Oral Presentation Number: C11
Pure Wild Animal Craziness: Personification and Naming in Wes
Anderson's Films
Will Kuball, Molly Weyer
The world of Wes Anderson is one that demands exploration. Every character, setting and event has a
unique title that was conceived by Anderson. On a broader scale, what inspirations in film and
literature and what about Anderson's upbringing and experiences caused him to bestow the titles and
names that he did? It can be assumed that the answer to this sort of question will only shine light on
Anderson's creative process in his auteur style of filmmaking. If we delve deeper into his creative work
and overarching themes, there can be deeper meanings behind the seemingly innocent labels. One
example of this would be his usage of the terms "human" and "wild animals" in The Fantastic Mr. Fox.
These overarching themes and deeper specifications can come from inspirations from a variety of
sources. Roald Dahl and J.D. Salinger are major literary influences on Anderson's work and Alfred
Hitchcock and François Truffaut are major cinematic influences. One can also comparatively assess
Anderson's movies through literary works such as Indra Sinha's novel Animal's People and Czeslaw
Milosz's anthology Luminous Things.
Oral Presentation Number: C12
Comparison of Small Mammal Communities on Restored and Remnant
Prairies in Northwestern Minnesota
Grant Vagle, Danielle Braund, Chloe Whitten, Amie Schulz, Jessica Watson
Remnant prairies are one of the most threatened habitats in North America. This has led to the
restoration of prairie habitats by some organizations to support and protect native prairie species. The
effectiveness of these restored prairies to support small mammals is not well studied, however. We
trapped small mammals on various plots of restored and remnant prairies in northwestern Minnesota
during the summer of 2016, adding to the existing dataset from previous years. Trapped sites were in
Becker, Clay, Mahnomen, and Norman counties. Our goal was to examine whether restored prairies
had equal biodiversity of mammal communities as compared to remnant prairies. The dominant species
caught included Microtus pennsylvanicus, Peromyscus spp., and Ictidomys tridecemlineatus; rare
species encountered included Poliocitellus franklinii, Mustela spp., and very rarely Perognathus
flavescens. It appears that restored and remnant prairies in this area have similar patterns of diversity,
though proximity of restored sites to remnant sites may have an influence on diversity.
Oral Presentation Number: C13
Constructing Wes Anderson's World: A Social System Turned Upside Down
Brady Jensen, Aaron White
A good movie invites the viewer into an imagined, constructed universe. Among film directors, not
many are better at world-building than Wes Anderson. His work does this so well because of
Anderson's ability to construct his narratives and the objects contained in them. He then uses these
physical objects to place the audience in his world. Using psychoanalysis, specific objects and images
are able to be pinpointed as being deliberately placed by Anderson in order to frame his films within a
universal theme. One of these themes that appears in this constructed Andersonian universe is his
depiction of social classes. In his films, Anderson portrays an idea that as social standing increases,
happiness decreases. This is a change from the commonly accepted idea that more money equates to
higher levels of happiness and differs greatly from Karl Marx's ideas on increasing the happiness of
every social class by eliminating classes altogether. Using Anderson's movies and various publications
on the correlation between social standing and happiness, the conclusion has been reached that
Anderson's approach, while unrealistic, works as an example of the idea that money doesn't buy
happiness, arguing that social class and happiness are completely independent of each other.
Oral Presentation Number: C14
Applying LMX to the Relationships of the NCAA and its Members
Ian Jahnig
In the fanaticism and glory of collegiate athletics, the communicative relationship of individual schools
and their relationship to other schools can often be lost. In the NCAA, most members school are
arranged into conferences, such as the Pac-10, Big Ten, Big 12, ACC, and SEC, which are commonly
referred to as the "Power 5" conferences. This paper will seek to uncover the underlying
communicative relationship between member schools and their respective conferences. Further, the
relationship between member institution and the NCAA will also be examined. As the premier
collegiate sporting association in the United States, the NCAA has grown to immense size. Currently,
the NCAA encompasses 1,281 member institutions, and almost 500,000 student-athletes. The reach of
the NCAA is evident in not only it's size and member affiliation, but also in its influence in the world
of professional sports. Through an analysis of similar articles, I hope to identify and define connections
between member schools, their conferences, and the NCAA. To frame it in such a way that there may
exist a parent-child like metaphor that exists, and, to follow along with that metaphor, that there is a
"favorite" among the "children", which is expressed through revenue streams, communications, and
favorable opportunities. Finally, I will compare the analysis of these components and frame this
analysis through the concept of LMX, which typically exists as an interpersonal communication theory.
Oral Presentation Number: C15
The Patron's Pyramid: Social Networks, Patronage, and Collective Action in
Turkish Politics
Matthew Lillehaugen
Collective action is central to the understanding of many political phenomena, but too little research
has been done to assess the role that the network structure of social relations may play in either
facilitating or preventing collective action. This project seeks to fill that gap by developing a new
model for networked collective action and demonstrating how this might be applied to the case of
Turkey. This research builds on the model of patronalism developed by Henry Hale to describe politics
in the post-Soviet world. The project first develops Hale's paradigm into a concrete mathematical
model with implications for the fields of collective action and network formation/dynamics and
possibilities for further extension. This model differs from most existing game-theoretic models of
network formation by allowing for "ebb and flow" in a sort of dynamic equilibrium, as well as
endogenous shocks to the system that incorporate issues such as coups and revolutions. The project
then examines the specific case of Turkey and demonstrates that Hale's patronalism is applicable to the
Turkish case. This allows for a new perspective on Turkish and Ottoman history, and allows for greater
understanding of developments in contemporary Turkey, including the attempted coup of July 2016.
Ultimately, this suggests that the perspective of patronalism provides an understanding of the
underlying continuity throughout various phases of Turkish and Ottoman history. Likewise, it suggests
that the recent coup attempt was unlikely to succeed, but that the subsequent crackdown on dissent
should not have been surprising.
Oral Presentation Number: C16
Millennial Snowflakes
Morgan Hinton
This research investigates the phrase "millennial snowflake" and other instances of millennial-shaming
within the framework of emotional epistemology, which helps explain how millennials are devalued as
knowers because of their emotional reactions to phenomena. It also explores the ways in which the
term has been harnessed by the political alt-right as an insult used in hopes of discrediting the people
who champion liberal and "identity politics." In my research, I explore emotional epistemology and
instance where this has been used to discredit millennials as knowers about current political issues as
well other rhetoric alt-right groups and bloggers use to undermine the legitimacy of these "emotional,"
"triggering," or "liberal" topics associated closely with the millennial generation. My analysis
ultimately argues that such attempts at discrediting millennials are problematic in their logic as well as
in their assumption that emotion is opposed to reason. It also shows that social justice and "identity
politics" aren't of any lesser value because they are championed by millennials or because they involve
topics of an emotional nature.
Oral Presentation Number: C17
Concordia College Students' Political Ideology and Political Party
Preferences
Cole Cymbaluk
A survey of the political preferences and ideologies of Concordia students was carried out in the Fall of
2016, with a 30.5% response rate (631 respondents out of 2066 possible) The results provide
interesting information about the political leanings of Concordia students. They also show links
between majors and political leanings, as well as how other factors may impact students' political
leanings. Additional demographic info was also collected, allowing for the analysis of gender and year
of study in relation to political values. Collected information about student views of political parties,
ideologies, and the 2016 presidential candidates give a useful indication of how the campus leaned
politically last Fall. Analysis of this information matched some preliminary expectations, such as the
findings that the campus leans liberal overall and that programs in Humanities lean heavily liberal. The
data also showed that contrary to popular belief, there is a solid contingent of conservative students on
campus, and that as opposed to Concordia stereotypes, they are not all Business majors. Overall, this
data allows for an understanding of political values and preferences at a small Christian liberal arts
college, and it can be used to further compare Concordia to other colleges of a similar size or to the
distribution in colleges in general.
Oral Presentation Number: C18
"It's a Match!": A Qualitative Exploration of Online Dating and
Expectancy Violations Theory
Samantha Severance
The researcher sought to understand the experiences of individuals who use online dating websites and
applications. Participants were interviewed on their online dating experience, how they and their
romantic interest presented themselves online, and how expectancy violations may have impacted
meeting their romantic interest face-to-face. Drawing conclusions from these variables helps the
researcher understand how individuals form relationships online and face-to-face and how Burgoon's
expectancy violations theory can help predict the future of these relationships.
Oral Presentation Number: C19
An Arithmetic Method for Proving Propositional Logic
Caleb Camrud
Logic exists at the center of formal argumentation, yet many are put off by its abstract symbology and
difficult computation. In this presentation, I propose a solution to making propositional logic more
approachable to the general public. This arithmetic system allows logic to be understood using modular
arithmetic, with the simple operations of addition, multiplication, and modulo 2. In opposition to the
current methodology for proving tautologies of propositional logic, this method allows those with an
elementary mathematical background to prove and translate propositional logic formulas. The
presentation will consist of a general introduction into the world of formal logic, a demonstration of the
current tableau method for proving tautologies, and finish by discussing the advantages of the novel
approach of the arithmetic method.
Oral Presentation Number: C20
Siri the Confidant: An Exploration of Electronic Self-Disclosure
Kali Reginek
Siri and Okay Google are integral parts of many smart phone users. From asking directions to spur of
the moment curiosities such as what whales sound like. Siri, and other conversation technologies like
it, have taken a new role as a confidant to sexual assault disclosure. The goal is to examine how
interconnected our technology has become in our lives and to understand that technology is no longer
used for basic assistance but higher needs like emotional assistance too. More specifically how is Siri
used as an assistant for emotional crisis like rape and suicide support. We must understand the
ramifications and benefits of Siri's new relationship status Sir in order for us to confide in her with such
requests. It was conducted by examining scholarly articles looking at the importance of word choice,
feedback and relationship management, the role of being an effective confidant, and self-disclosure and
relationship management. It was concluded that there are no conclusions, rather room for further
research. Artificial intelligence is incredibly new that it is difficult to have concrete conclusions. We
can focus upon the ideas needed to improve Siri's newfound relationship status, potential flaws with
these new features, and whether or not these new features are truly relevant. This study was important
to conduct because as A.I. programs become an integral part in our lives we need to consider the
empathy and importance behind true human relationships, and what mimicking that would do to the
individuals who use such programs.
Oral Presentation Number: C21
Interpretation of the Symbolic Veil
Kila Dumas
Often misunderstood and misinterpreted, women who veil are the embodiment of a longstanding
religious, cultural, and artistic symbol. The veil is a multivalent symbol with a wide scope for
interpretation. The Muslim veil, commonly understood as relating solely to Islamic women's religious
devotion, does, in fact, have roots that reach far beyond modern and ancient Islam. It is crucial to note
that the practice of female veiling has significant origins throughout ancient Christian contexts.
Although, as the veil is most commonly perceived of as being influential throughout modern Islam
rather than modern Christianity, the origins of the veil throughout ancient Islam prove to be an
imperative piece of discussion towards the understanding of why women practice veiling. Modern
Egypt serves as a useful archetype for the evolution of the tradition of veiling for Muslim women. This
essay argues that the veil is a multivalent symbol through which the women who wear the veil
communicate something about their identity to the wider community. Some of the meanings of the veil
are religious, cultural, practical, political, and artistic. The wearing of a veil can be, and often is,
intended with one set of meanings, but read through an entirely different set of assumptions. The
history of veiling has been influenced by a largely Orientalized lens of trauma. This paper explores
varied meanings regarding the symbol of the veil drawn from a variety of Muslim writers, Islamic
commentators, Edward Said and personal interviews.
Oral Presentation Number: C22
Spatial and Behavioral Interactions Between American Red (Tamiasciurus
hudsonicus) and Eastern Gray (Sciurus carolinensis) Squirrels on an Urban
College Campus
Jessica Watson
Tree squirrels (Order Rodentia, Family Sciuridae) are one of few groups to thrive in an urban setting
such as Concordia College's campus in Moorhead, MN. Our campus has a mix of deciduous and
coniferous trees and supports populations of both American red (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) and eastern
gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis). These two species are found usually in different habitats, with gray
squirrels associated with deciduous trees and red squirrels associated with conifers. Red squirrels
actively defend exclusive territories and at the center of these territories is typically a midden. By
contrast, gray squirrels are not territorial and use scatterhoarding to store food. Gray squirrels exhibit a
dominance hierarchy. Over the past two years we have collared 58 squirrels and documented over 691
locations. Recently we have observed some shifts in habitat use. During 2014 we observed gray
squirrels almost exclusively using deciduous trees and red squirrels using coniferous trees. Over the
summer of 2015, we saw a decrease in the number of gray squirrels (high mortality coupled with
apparent dispersal) and have seen more red squirrels using deciduous trees. During 2016, an increase of
gray squirrels has been observed and red squirrels have been exclusively using conifers. Our hypothesis
is that the two species will partition the campus in such a way that gray squirrels will occupy deciduous
trees and red squirrels will move back into predominantly coniferous trees. We further predict red
squirrels and gray squirrels will have low overlap of locations determined through telemetry.
Oral Presentation Number: C23
Examining Foreign Medical Aid in Francophone Africa from a Postcolonial
Perspective
Anna Dovre
A significant aspect of the study of Francophone regions is the understanding of the role that
colonization has played, and continues to play, within those spaces. I will use postcolonial theory to
illuminate the ways foreign medical aid has been a major stage upon which colonial structures of
oppression have played out in Francophone Africa. The film Le Grand Blanc de Lambarene (1995)
will serve as a lens to consider the role of racism and orientalism in colonial medical care in Subsaharan Africa. I will compare this to modern foreign medical aid provided by Médecins Sans
Frontières, who are seeking to reframe medical aid by using it to empower local healthcare providers.
Oral Presentation Number: C24
Harry Potter Amplification: An Exploration of Cultural Assimilation
Ashley Warner
Embedded in Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire's world of wizardry and magic is the opportunity to
highlight the struggles people often face when they travel to different cultures and are expected to
assimilate with those around them. This reimaginary adaptation of JK Rowling's Harry Potter series,
specifically, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, explores the presence of culture in the novel. It does
so by featuring personal insight from Harry, Cedric Diggory, Fleur Delacour, and Viktor Krum during
the triwizard tournament. Using themes from the novel, theorist interpretations of the text, and popular
culture, this work blends the world of magic with modern issues of cultural disconnect and
assimilation. The character development created by Rowling set the groundwork for teenage wizards
struggling to fit in with various cultures while at Hogwarts. This adaptation supplements the fourth
Harry Potter novel by creating a deeper understanding of the residents of Hogwarts and those who
travel to it. Modern crosscurrents are the underlying theme of this series of personal journal entries as
they connect to people in today's society who constantly are being exposed to cultures that sharply
contrast their own.
Oral Presentation Number: C25
Coming Together and Coming Apart: Relationships and Drug Use in Wes Anderson Films
Jeremy Pierce
Audrey Long
Rick and Ilsa in Casablanca, Clarice Starling and Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs, and
Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid; cinema thrives on the depiction of close relationships.
Hollywood shows us relationships that grow and relationships that fall apart. Knapp's Relational
Development Model shows how a relationship develops in a ten step process. In the model there are
two phases called "Coming Together" and "Coming Apart," representing the stages at the beginning
and end of a relationship. Each phase has five steps varying in intensity and dependent on the
characteristics of the relationship. Relationships can move fluidly through the steps and even skip over
steps. Wes Anderson creates absurd and comical relationships that move through Knapp's model. Much
like characters make choices to be in relationships, characters can also make choices to abuse
substances. Wes Anderson characters often use alcohol and narcotics to forget their pasts or shape their
identities. Their substance abuse relates to their behavior and sometimes symbolizes their downfall.
Psychological theorist Hans Eysenck developed a link between personality traits and a person's drug of
choice. He believed that people use drugs to modify their temperaments; people with lots of energy use
depressants and people with less energy use stimulants. Later psychological theories showed the "Big
Five" personality traits which connect personality and drug use. This paper will explore these theories
in Wes Anderson films such as Rushmore, The Darjeeling Limited, and The Royal Tenenbaums, as well
as his other films.
Oral Presentation Number: C26
Twenty Below Coffee and/or Temperature
Isak Johnson
As college students coffee can sometimes be an integral part of our lives, whether it be in our rooms,
Anderson Commons, or at a coffeehouse off-campus. Last spring, I conducted an ethnography (a small
scale cultural study) of Twenty Below Coffee Co. Throughout the roughly eight weeks of my project, I
observed the interactions between employees and patrons and conducted a series of interviews in order
to better understand the aura of a welcoming community of Twenty Below, which seemed to be at the
core of the coffeehouse's atmosphere. These observations and interviews helped describe to me the
strong sense of community that was being created through conversation and more than a little coffee.
Oral Presentation Number: C27
When Alcoholics are Forced to be Anonymous: The Hidden World of
College Alcohol Abuse
Grace Hoffa
In a period that is often called the best years of their lives, college students are simultaneously
surrounded by norms that encourage addictive behavior yet they are left nearly alone when they
become addicted. From the norms and myths that perpetuate the drinking culture to campus support
and treatment, the common methods of recognizing and rectifying the damages of alcohol has left
college aged alcoholics isolated and ostracized. As a feminist scholar, my methodology centers on the
relationship that intersecting aspects of life have on addiction. My sources can be separated into
subcategories. First, I ground most of my research in the social sciences. I take an active look in the
psychology behind both addiction and society's reaction to addiction and addicts as people. I also
ground my research in examining the current system as it relates to alcoholism. This entails inspecting
the current availability of treatment centers, as well as investigating how different universities and
institutions both attempt to identify and potentially provide treatment to students. The conclusion that I
anticipate and have seen in my research is that our society has actively avoided the conversation about
alcohol abuse among students. Even now, in an era where more research on alcohol use in colleges
exists, there is a large gap in the conversation when it comes to addiction. The norms and myths of the
college experience have allowed society to evade labeling and aiding students who may be at risk for
addiction or may be struggling with addiction.
Oral Presentation Number: C28
Racial Commentary in Marvel Comic's X-Men Series
Sarah Osborne
The "X-Men" Series, created by Jack Kirby and Stan Lee was originally created in the 1960s when the
civil rights movement had a strong swing in society. The comic series told the story of a minority group
with unique abilities that was feared and oppressed by society. Professor Charles Xavier, used to
convey the rhetoric of Martin Luther King Jr., taught a nonviolent resistance to the oppression while
they struggled to find a place in the world around them. Hate groups in the comic universe directly
reflected the words and ideals of real groups such as the KKK. By applying the rhetorical dimensions
of myths and narratives to the comic series, one is able to see how symbolism in storytelling taught the
wrongness of racism in the "X-Men" and created a racial commentary. Through the use of symbols,
archetypal metaphors, and parallels we can see how the series was written to teach the audience about
the injustice in their own society.
Oral Presentation Number: C29
Communication Management Units, The Dark Side of Our Penitentiary
System
Lacy Tooker-Kirkevold
In the United States there are two federal prison units that are not directly connected to any one branch
of government. These units are called Communication Management Units, or CMUs, which work to
repress the communication of second tier terrorists in the system. These facilities differ from ordinary
prisons in that prisoners are allowed only limited communication with the outside world and the rest of
the inmates within the facility. CMUs disproportionally prosecute Muslim Americans and openly
employ harmful tactics to suppress their native language, culture, and religion. CMUs were opened
without any actual policy to back them up and no federal agency that is formerly in charge.
Communication Management Units are an unconstitutional and unchecked flaw in our penitentiary
system.
Oral Presentation Number: C30
Trump: An Analysis of the Role of Race and Minorities in the 2016
Presidential Campaign of Donald Trump
Ian Jahnig, Taylor McMillin, Kacey Finch, Lauren Arnold, Jian Shen
The last two U.S. Presidential elections have been examples of the wide range of political affiliations,
personalities, and backgrounds that can exist in the political sphere. With the historic election of
President Barack Obama, the first minority president voted into office, the issue of race in presidential
elections has come into the spotlight. The role of minorities in presidential elections is one which has
been more recently examined, although further research must be done. In the 2016 presidential
election, the effective campaign strategy of Donald Trump lead to his election to the presidency. As the
newly elected president takes office, the strategies and tactics that lead to the election can now be
examined. This paper seeks to expand on the research done on the role of race in presidential elections.
Through analysis of video advertisements, the authors hope to uncover a connection between the use of
minorities, the portrayal of minorities and the presence of stereotyping in political advertisements.
Video advertisements endorsed by Donald Trump in the 2016 presidential election are examined as a
means of uncovering the suspected findings.
Oral Presentation Number: C31
What about Jessie?: Historical Research and Community Involvement
Sarah Anderson, Teagan Brogdon, Kate Campion, Thomas Froland, Nicholas Larson, Leah Olson,
Shelby Reidle, Kaitlin Rubash, Marissa Senstad, Keith Sullivan
Inquiry 100: Backstories partnered with the Comstock House Museum and the Historical and Cultural
Society of Clay County, two organizations that desired information about Jessie Comstock. While
much is known about other members of the Comstock family, limited information had been gathered
about the family's second child, Jessie. Our class started researching broadly at first, and each of us
eventually selected an aspect of Jessie's life to study. We conducted original research using both
primary and secondary sources to better understand various dynamics of the time period with a strong
focus on women. Our research took us to numerous archives and research sites in the Fargo-Moorhead
area as well as the Twin Cities. After extensive investigation, we created individual posters that drew
conclusions about both Jessie and the societal norms of the time period. We then presented our posters
to the Concordia College community and answered any questions they had. Following the Credo poster
session, we synthesized our research into three banners which related directly to our findings about
Jessie. The final banners will be displayed in the Comstock House to supply information to the broader
Fargo-Moorhead community. This session will outline our learning processes with historical research
skills and community collaboration.
Oral Presentation Number: C32
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in 3D Bioprinting
Adam Kolling
Lung conditions such as emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, and pulmonary
hypertension can necessitate transplantation of one or both lungs. However, challenges with lung
donation make transplantation difficult–less than 20% of deceased organ donors have transplantable
lungs. The biggest barrier to lung transplant is chronic rejection of these histoincompatible organs
despite the use of immunosuppressive drugs. Harnessing 3D printing technology for adaptation with
biological materials may provide a patient-specific alternative to transplantable lung shortages. Using
human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) embedded in a hydrogel consisting of gelatin, alginate,
and digested porcine lung extracellular matrix, we printed three-dimensional cellular constructs. This
research focused on refinement of this hydrogel scaffold, so as to improve resolution of printed
constructs, maintain high cell viability during and after the printing process, and establish an
environment for differentiation of constructs into definitive endoderm, a precursor to lung tissue.
Varying relative concentrations of biological materials in hydrogel mixtures elucidated many
combinations unsuitable for 3D printing with cells, with workable mixtures proving challenging as
well. Although progress was made over the course of this research toward creating a suitable
combination of materials, still more investigation is needed in this relatively new field to find an
optimal supportive hydrogel.
Oral Presentation Number: C33
First-Time Filmmakers: The Process of Adapting Past to Present
Ellen Rethwisch, Ben Deetz, Nicolas Restad, Jaron Dahle, Grace Murray, Madeleine DuBore, Leah
Jensen
In today's culture, film is often taken for granted. What is seen on the screen is only a small portion of
the artistry that goes into creating a film. The students of the Film and Literature capstone course were
given the objective to take a piece of literature from a different time period and adapt it onto the screen.
The group read a collection of 21 different pieces and analyzed which would be most compatible with
film. Our selection process led us to a 19th century short story by Guy de Maupassant, which we
decided we could update to Fargo in the 21st century. The process of adapting and producing the short
film Abandoned challenged the preconceived notions of the movie-making process and introduced new
ways of viewing and understanding film. Throughout the course, the students also studied a variety of
theories, including narrative theory and reception theory, which served as tools when analyzing
preexisting films as well as their own. This presentation will reveal some of the most challenging
aspects that the students faced, including the difficulty of preserving the themes of gender and class
that are present in the original story while making the content relevant to the current time period. In
addition, the students will describe the specific ways in which they adapted the text through plot
changes and modernization of language. Stills and film clips will provide visual evidence of our
creative research and problem-solving process.
Oral Presentation Number: C34
Track: Curbing vs Cones
Nicholas Peterson
An NCAA policy is going into effect January 2018 that will require every college with an indoor track
to have a 2" curb on the turns on the track. This preliminary study is designed to check the validity of
the policy by looking for a difference in foot spacing from the inside of the lane using cameras to track
athletes as they run the turns. The spacing will create a difference in distance on the turns, a shorter
distance will result in a faster time. The anticipated results are that there will be no significant
difference in foot distance between a curbed lane and a coned lane.
Oral Presentation Number: C35
Color Selection of Quasar Candidates Behind the Extended Gaseous
Regions of the Triangulum Galaxy
William Harvey
We report new quasar candidates in the extended gaseous region of the Triangulum (M33) Galaxy as
observed with the Wyoming Infrared Observatory in the u, g, r, and i optical passbands during the
Summer of 2016. Our survey produced a sample of 10526 point sources to a limiting depth of g ≤ 20.9
in a region of ~ 16 square degrees, 34 of which are ultraviolet-excess selected known quasars with
redshifts up to z < 2.2. Color-color plots were created using extinction-corrected magnitudes of u, g, r,
and i as well as near-ultraviolet (NUV) and near-infrared (W1) magnitudes as taken from Galaxy
Evolution Explorer (GALEX) and Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) respectively. Using a
series of color cuts in NUV, u, g, r, i, and W1 bands, we recover high-quality quasar candidates. Based
on optical colors alone we project ~ 30 new candidates per square degree, and report 271 new, high
quality quasar candidates. Spectroscopic follow-up of these candidates could yield new, bright quasars
behind M33.
Oral Presentation Number: C36
Mapping Aquatic Plant and Sediment Data at Long Lake, Becker County,
MN
Andrew Dosch, Ruth Sexton
Determining sediment composition in relation to depth and plant composition can be useful to help
identify preferred plant habitats and sediment types throughout a lake. Our project focuses on
identifying and mapping the distribution of sediment types, depth, and flora in Long Lake, Becker
County, Minnesota. GIS software was used for mapping distributions, while the hydrometer method
was used for particle size analysis. The Identification of sediment composition in relation to plant
species presence, diversity and depth can help identify ecological preferences of each plant species.
This could give land managers a better understanding of where invasive species are likely to take root.
Additionally, this research could be used as a base for future research, such as analyzing patterns
relating particle analysis and the presence of aquatic fauna, allowing scientists to predict aquatic animal
species using sediment composition.
Oral Presentation Number: C37
Reclaiming the Good News in the Gospel of Mark
Andrea Bonneville
Traditional scholarly interpretation of the Gospel of Mark focuses on the journey to Jesus' crucifixion
on the cross. Mark 16:1-8 is considered to be an epilogue to the Gospel when the three women go to
the tomb intending to anoint Jesus' dead body. The women discover an empty tomb and are instructed
by "a young man" at the tomb to "tell his disciples and Peter that he is going ahead of you to Galilee"
(Mark 16:7). The women flee from the tomb and say nothing "for terror and amazement had seized
them" (16:8). Traditional scholarship views the women as failed followers of Jesus due to their
inability to speak. This paper reconsiders the traditional interpretation and considers the importance of
the ending. The women as traumatized survivors represent the community within the Gospel. This
paper uses the contemporary narratives of mothers of black sons who have been killed due to police
brutality to better understand the trauma that the women faced when Jesus was executed. Like the
women within the Gospel, these mothers' lives have been radically changed by death. The trauma
experienced and the resilience of the mothers provides insight into the silence of the women at the
tomb and how they continue to live as traumatized survivors. The ending of the Gospel of Mark is
unsettling because it does not provide readers with closure. This ending may seem hopeless because of
the silence of the women and the abrupt ending. At the heart of trauma is the loss of hope. In the
Gospel of Mark is a new understanding of where hope lies. This paper will argue that for victims of
trauma the ending of the Gospel of Mark conveys hope.
Oral Presentation Number: C38
Understanding Anxiety: The Science Behind our Fears
Nate Adamietz, Elli Emerson, Kate Kvidera
Anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental illnesses among college-aged students. According to the
National College Health Assessment Survey around 1 in 6 college students will be diagnosed with
anxiety - surpassing the rates of depression diagnoses in the same age group. Thus, it is important to
provide information regarding the biochemical pathways in which anxiety occurs within the brain to
the public in order to create a larger understanding of the mental illness. We will especially target this
presentation for the students of Concordia that have a limited scientific background. We will achieve
this by reviewing various current research articles pertaining to how anxiety is formed and how it
specifically relates to academic anxiety in a university setting. There are many structures in the brain
that are involved in anxiety. Commonly in those experiencing anxiety, the HPA (HypothalamicPituitary-Axis) is overactive leading to lasting heightened sympathetic nervous responses. Paired with
the heightened stress response is an abnormally strong memory formation. The memory formation
centers associated with this abnormally strong memory formation are the hippocampus and amygdala.
Another goal will be to provide an overview of the treatments for anxiety and their mechanisms that
prevent symptoms from occurring. These treatments can involve drug therapy or behavioral therapy.
By increasing the understanding of how anxiety relates to academics and the treatments currently
available we hope to better prepare Concordia student to deal with anxiety in their lives.
Oral Presentation Number: C39
Peak Performance: Dealing with Performance Anxiety
Cole Bartels
Performance anxiety is an unfortunate reality for every performing musician regardless of their chosen
instrument. It is something that we grapple with on a recurring basis, and for some, performance
anxiety can be completely crippling when the stage door opens and it is time to step into the public eye.
Many musicians perceive performance anxiety as an issue that can only be tackled in the moment,
meaning there is nothing one can do to prepare to face these challenges until the actual performance.
This however, is a huge misconception. Taking a read through Dr. David Roland's The Confident
Performer reveals that performance related anxieties are actually deeply rooted underlying
psychological and physiological issues that need to addressed in the long term. My research focuses on
identifying both the short and long term causes of performance anxiety, identifying the various ways in
which performance anxiety manifests itself, and finding effective strategies for coping. I draw my
findings from many sources, including: various scholarly books and articles, interviews with fellow
students and faculty members, observation of professionals in performance, and my own experiences as
a performing trombonist. My findings will be a valuable insight for each and every musician at
Concordia to help maximize their performance potential.
Oral Presentation Number: C40
Adaptation and West Side Story: Retelling Shakespeare's Tragic Tale
Jonathan Immel
In 1961, Stephen Sondheim delivered one of the most memorable adaptations of Shakespeare's tragic
tale, Romeo and Juliet, entitled West Side Story. While the story of star-crossed lovers among two
feuding families remains intact, there are many other aspects of West Side Story that make it different,
rather, adapted. An adaptation takes an original text and recreates the story in a different genre, style, or
format, such as drama or film, often to appeal to a modern audience. West Side Story, a dramatic
adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, deals with relevant themes at the time of its writing, and today. As
with all adaptations, the questions scholars ask are, "How does a work stand compared to its source? Is
it dependant on the source text, or can it stand alone?" West Side Story stands alone when compared to
Romeo and Juliet, telling a similar tale while the updated story appeals to modern audiences with
themes including immigration and racism. Through the analysis of the texts through ideas of Adrian
Poole, Henry Jenkins, and other adaptation scholars, West Side Story proves to be a standalone
adaptation of Romeo and Juliet.
Oral Presentation Number: C41
"I love you, but you don't know what you're talking about." Perception of
Honesty and Familial Relationships in Wes Anderson Films
Graham Hegstad, Alyssa Dalen
In Wes Anderson's films, communication between characters plays a dramatic role in the outcomes of
relationships and the storylines of the films themselves. Thematically, Anderson uses honesty, or the
lack of honesty, to define interpersonal relationships among and between many characters. This
perception of "radical honesty" creates a dynamic of distrustful and dysfunctional communication that
affects the bonds made between characters and drives the action forward. In the family setting, the
relationships between parents and children are central to the storylines of many Anderson films.
Anderson portrays a host of poor parenting examples, all of which affect the actions of their children.
In, Moonrise Kingdom, The Royal Tenenbaums, The Darjeeling Limited, and The Life Aquatic with
Steve Zissou, subpar parenting is prevalent, leading to unhealthy decisions that penetrate many aspects
of the young characters' lives. The way parents care for their children is known in the field of
psychology to influence how children interact and form relationships of their own. The relationships
between parents and children, along with the bonds between all characters, continue to be major
thematic components of Anderson's films.
Oral Presentation Number: C42
Uncovering the Importance of Social and Familial Relationships in the
Films of Wes Anderson
Rachel Rose, Andrew Johnson
From the humble beginnings of Bottle Rocket to the extravagance of The Grand Budapest Hotel, Wes
Anderson portrays father figures as prominent examples of the importance of interpersonal
relationships. Human connection is often overlooked as a necessity. It is something that can be taken
for granted and often misunderstood. Anderson acknowledges this emotional connection in his films
through incompetent, absent, and substitute fathers. One such example is between Chas and his
negligent father, Royal, in The Royal Tenenbaums. Anderson uses complicated relationships to be
reconciled later on, in order to reach a state of self-reflection and, eventually, healing. Instances such as
Chas and Royal are not uncommon. Other complicated relationships are portrayed in Anderson's films
Moonrise Kingdom, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, and The Grand Budapest Hotel. Such
examples support Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs; the theory that points to the importance of love and
belonging in order to reach a place of self-actualization. Overall, the importance of interpersonal
relationships in the characters' lives will be explored in order to generalize the findings to real human
experience. One primary resource of our findings involves fatherhood dynamics, such as how an absent
or incompetent father can impact the child's character and development, as well as how a substitute
father figure can be integrated into and affect a child's life. Using the father figures in Anderson's films
and other connections between characters, the importance of social relationships will be further
explored.
Oral Presentation Number: C43
Parmenides, Heraclitus, and Hugh Everett: A Comparative Reconciliation
of Ontological Inconsistency
Caleb Camrud
In contemporary physics, perhaps the largest current conflict is the apparent contradiction which exists
between quantum mechanics and general relativity. Not only do these disciplines hold conflicting
predictions about the future of the universe, but their ontologies in particular refute one another.
General relativity suggests that spacetime exists as an independent entity, and purports that all things
may be dependent on its curvature. It also suggests a four-dimensional perspective of the universe,
incorporating a deterministic view of the future, presuming all future events to be part of a singular
whole. Quantum mechanics, on the other hand, suggests no independent spacetime, with all things
being depicted by wave functions alone. It includes within these wave functions an inherent
indeterminacy about the state of things, and most importantly the concept that the future is currently
indeterminate. This paper seeks to philosophically reconcile these two conflicting ontologies, and looks
first toward the Atomists' reconciliation of the ancient ontologies of Heraclitus and Parmenides to
generate a possible methodology for achieving such a solution. This process, when combined with the
modern interpretations of general relativity as Parmenidean and quantum mechanics as Heraclitean,
leads us to consider the universal wave function proposed by Hugh Everett as ontologically reconciling
these two apparently inconsistent branches of contemporary physics.
Oral Presentation Number: C44
Modern Use of Rhetorical Theories: A Rhetorical Analysis of Donald
Trump's Speech
Amarachi Nasa-Okolie
The aim of this research is to use theories of rhetoric such as the situational model by Lloyd Bitzer and
artistic proofs by Aristotle to analyse the speech given by Donald Trump on the 24th January, 2015.
The research asserts that Donald Trump gives a new meaning to the artistic proofs (i.e. logos, pathos,
ethos) as laid out by Aristotle and exposes the quasi-logic within his discourse. This research is
particularly important for the field of Communications because it exposes the transforming power of
theories i.e. how theories from the Greek period can be applied to understanding modern situations. For
the project, I used the rhetorical situational model and the artistic proofs by Aristotle to construct my
argument.
Oral Presentation Number: C45
Re-Placing the English Classroom: A Justice-Oriented Place-Based
Pedagogy
Libby Hiller
In 2003, David Gruenewald sought to address some common issues in an educational approach known
as place-based education by proposing what he termed a "critical pedagogy of place," or a merging of
critical pedagogy as described by Paulo Friere (1968) and place-based education developed by
educational theorists such as David Sobel (1996). Gruenewald believes the two pedagogies can be
mutually beneficial because of the intersectionality of race and the local environment. I propose justiceoriented place-based education to both clarify Gruenewald's meaning and to create a space for a
restitution of local issues in a global context. Justice-Oriented Place-Based Pedagogy is an educational
approach to enhance the teaching of a subject that immerses students in local engagement and global
comparison through critical analyses of power structures that privilege some and disenfranchised others
within the local culture, heritage, and bioregion. A justice-oriented place-based pedagogy roots student
learning in a place within a global context from which concerns of placelessness in American
Education can be addressed by preparing students for a complex world that is entangled in the
ecological, political, cultural, and historical aspects of a place. My paper advocates for a critical placebased pedagogy by discussing the current issues that contribute to a sense of placelessness in American
education, several educational approaches that have been used to solve these issues, the benefits to a
critical place-based approach, and how and why it should be applied to the teaching of reading and
writing.
Oral Presentation Number: C46
Examining the Link Between Obesity, Metformin Treatment of Type II
Diabetes, and Pancreatic Cancer
Robin Fettig, Chloe Bakkum
Recent research has suggested a significant link between obesity, Type II Diabetes, and pancreatic
cancer but conclusive links between these three factors are currently unknown. The gut microbiome has
been one link that has not been researched yet and it may play a greater role in this connection than
previously thought. One of the most common treatments for individuals with Type II Diabetes is
metformin. Metformin, one of the most commonly prescribed Type II Diabetes medication in America,
has been previously determined to have a negative impact on the gut microbiome, often leading to gut
dysbiosis. In addition, people who develop Type II Diabetes are often obese which also puts them at an
increased risk for gut dysbiosis. When these two factors are brought together, it can cause an
abnormally large population of harmful bacteria to harbor within the gut microbiome. One of the more
prevalent harmful bacteria that resides normally in small amounts within the gut is H. pylori and in
large colonizations, can cause the inflammation of neighboring organs, specifically the pancreas. If the
pancreas becomes inflamed for prolonged periods of time, chronic pancreatitis can develop and is a
well known risk factor for developing pancreatic cancer. When examining this domino-effect of
problems, it suggests that obesity and metformin-induced gut dysbiosis may be responsible for the
increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer in individuals with metformin-treated Type II Diabetes.
Oral Presentation Number: C47
Childhood Obesity and Mass Media: How Memorable Messages Impact
Childhood Obesity Campaigns
Meredith Gruenes
In today’s society, we are seeing an epidemic of obesity throughout the nation; not only in adults, but
we as a nation is also seeing this epidemic in children as well. “Obesity among children and
adolescents in the United States has tripled in the past three decades and nearly one in five 12–19-yearold adolescents in the United States is obese,” (Ogden, Carroll, Curtin, Lamb, & Flegal, 2010; Ogden,
Carroll, Kit, & Flegal, 2012). Because of this epidemic, there is now a rise in childhood obesity
campaigns from First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move to The Campaign to End Obesity (CEO).
While parts of these campaigns work to an extent, they still have a long way to go in order to combat
childhood obesity. This study is being researched to understand how childhood obesity campaigns can
use memorable messages to prevent and treat childhood obesity in America. Previous research has
stated that “the use of mass media campaigns to change health-related beliefs, attitudes, and behavior is
a common and often effective public health strategy,” (Wakefield, Loken, & Hornik, 2010). This study
uses a qualitative research design to explore memorable messages that are used in Childhood Obesity
campaigns. Participants of this study will first be shown three different anti-obesity campaign videos.
Once shown, participants will be interviewed based on their reaction to the three videos. We anticipate
that the result from this study will show that anti-obesity campaigns are not successful in using
memorable messages to help combat childhood obesity.
Oral Presentation Number: C48
Inflammation Induced PDAC Mediated by Diabetes
Jackson Barber, Jack Will, Cassie Roeder, Sarah Hildebrandt
It is well known that type 2 diabetes and obesity greatly increase the risk of pancreatic cancer, but the
mechanism of how and why this occurs remains unclear. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is
the most common type of pancreatic cancer and has a very high mortality rate. In 80-90% of PDAC
patients there is a mutation in the KRAS gene. We hypothesize that chronic inflammation due to
obesity, causes the activation of KRAS. The activation of KRAS also increases the production of
inflammatory mediators. These inflammatory mediators further contribute to KRAS activation. This
increase in Ras activity then initiates pancreatic tumorigenesis. Hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia
that are commonly associated with type 2 diabetes cause the proliferation of an already established
tumor. Hyperinsulinemia promotes mitogenicity, while hyperglycemia provides additional energy for
cancerous cells. Our new hypothesis is innovative in linking inflammation induced pancreatic cancer
with progression stemming from diabetes and obesity. In our hypothesis, obesity and diabetes each
independently contribute to the progression of PDAC. If clinicians take into account the KRAS activity
biomarker for pancreatic cancer as well as the hyperglycemic and hyperinsulinemic conditions of
PDAC, advances can be made to prevent, diagnose, and better treat PDAC.
Oral Presentation Number: C49
Dorothee Soelle: A Political Theology of Active Resistance in the Age of
Trump
Rachel Crippen
Born in 1929 in Germany, Dorothee Soelle was raised in a world that stood on the verge of the second
World War. Shaped by childhood experiences in her home country, Soelle's theology was also deeply
impacted by her experiences bearing witness to injustices practiced by governments around the world.
Offering a framework for peaceful resistance in the face of unjust authority, the theology of Dorothee
Soelle is especially relevant in today's political and social context. Dorothee Soelle's writing and
activism present a theology of resistance which demands to be used as a tool for dismantling and
transforming political structures which practice injustice. Where the Christian tradition teaches that its
followers ought to be more like Christ, Soelle's Christology takes that mandate a step further into the
realm of political activism. For Soelle, "Christ is a political Christ, historical in opposing institutional
power; his presence evokes imagination, freedom to risk, and brings liberation."• Demanding the
participation of the church in confronting voices which enable and promote violence, Soelle gives
language to the kind of holistic, active resistance which she posits all Christians are divinely mandated
to participate in; a resistance against temporal authorities who suppress dissent, mock peace, and pose a
significant threat to the lives of the most vulnerable. This form of resistance does not advocate
divisiveness, rather it is centered around the truth of unity that is found in the practice of mysticism; a
resistance founded out of a belief in the ultimate oneness of all living beings.
Oral Presentation Number: C50
Use of Symbolism in the Refutation of Patriarchic God-Speech
Helen Hill
She Who Is by Elizabeth Johnson is a book focused on feminist aspects of Christian theology. Johnson
defines feminist theology generally in the first chapter as a theology that is based on the experiences of
Christian women serving to assert the humanity of women and the legitimacy of their connections with
the divine, independent from "personal identification with men." As the movement has picked up
momentum, feminist theology has "uncover[ed] and criticiz[ed]" the sexism found within the church,
reiterating women's equal "image and likeness of God." Throughout the book, Johnson draws on these
female experiences, both from historical contexts and from present-day events. She focuses on the
female image as it is portrayed in Scripture and in the Early-Christian Movement, along with its
application to God and the Trinity. She deconstructs these different examples of feminine images,
recognizing any potential or already-present implications of them while breaking down and refuting the
seemingly perpetual patriarchy present in the church. Overall, Johnson explains the effects that
different theological symbols have had on Christian life, specifically the lives of women who have been
marginalized by the androcentric speech used to talk about God. This patriarchal God-speech that, over
the centuries, has marginalized women will be refuted using the images of Spirit (or "shekinah"),
mother, and Wisdom (or Sophia), basing much of this on the language of Johnson: "The symbol of God
functions."
Oral Presentation Number: C51
Contemporary Embroidery: A Feminist Collaboration Between Generations
of Women
Katelyn Mitchell
It is a common misconception that embroidery is an outdated craft that is really only practiced by
grandmothers. In reality, the second and third waves of feminism brought with their vision of equality a
revival of crafts such as embroidery and instilled the practices of such crafts in the younger generations
of women. These women took the art of embroidery in a completely new direction from where it had
been in the past, and created innovative pieces that challenged the medium of embroidery's place in the
art/craft divide, a divide that fuels gender inequality in the art world. The works of contemporary
embroidery artists utilize various techniques to get a feminist message across, most notably, the reuse
of vintage materials to create a dialogue between generations of women past and present. Because of
the historical connotations of femininity associated with the craft, embroidery has become the chosen
medium to create discussion inducing juxtapositions between medium and subject matter. Through the
analysis of art pieces by contemporary feminist embroidery artists, such as Orly Cogan, and readings of
art historical scholarship, this paper aims to bring awareness to an often unheard of topic and discuss
some of the techniques that make this medium ideal for sharing feminist ideas.
Oral Presentation Number: C52
Sylvia Sleigh and the Male Nude
Ivory Clark
For centuries, the Western art tradition had at its center the genre of the female nude. Within this
genre, the female form was objectified and debased under the oppression of the male gaze. The way in
which female nudes had been conventionally rendered revealed the patriarchy present within the
Western art community. These are the issues that Sylvia Sleigh, a feminist artist known for her
portraits of friends during the 1970s, subverts in her work. By appropriating the female nude paintings
of famous male artists (such as Diego Velazquez, Jean Ingres, and Titian), and replacing the female
figures in them with renderings of her male friends, Sleigh shocks the viewer into questioning the
validity of established Western gender roles. The power relationship present between men and women,
subject and artist, becomes disrupted in her work and highlights the issues of misogyny not only within
Western art, but society at large. Sylvia Sleigh persistently appropriates canonical paintings and
"feminizes" the nude male body in an effort to challenge the dominance of the male gaze and promote
equality between the erotic representations of men and women.
Oral Presentation Number: C53
Defining Student Success in Education
Jonathan Sutton
With the intent of pursuing an educational framework in which all students succeed, the purpose of this
research is to examine and critique the current guidelines for student success, approaching the issue
with different ideological positions and proposing solutions to improve our current educational system
and guidelines for success. I look at current standards, policy, and implementation surrounding the
goals of our education system to propose solutions that can be implemented within the current system.
Oral Presentation Number: C54
Beauty, Strength, and Speed Do Not Come in One Size/Athletic Success and
Female Body-Shaming
Lauren Arnold
"I was at the Olympic Games winning medals and I still doubted my image. I doubted what I looked
like.. . . I was always compared to Nastia Luken my teammate who was six inches taller, long and
lean, and flexible, and I was what [the media] would describe as bulky, stocky, powerful, too big, too
short, and too fat" (Shawn Johnson, Olympic Gymnast). Whether at Olympic, collegiate, or high school
levels, female athletes with muscular builds often struggle under the weight of cultural expectations for
femininity/thinness. Media criticism directed at Shawn Johnson, and the subsequent self-doubt she
experienced, exemplifies this trend. This criticism highlights the problem of body-shaming that
pervades the world of women's sports. To better understand and address this problem, we need to ask:
What female body types are deemed acceptable within specific sports and in the broader U.S. culture?
How does the media project and normalize female body-shaming? What are some specific examples of
body-shaming in women's sports? Based on an exploration of these questions through scholarly
research and interviews with Concordia's female athletes, this paper argues that within America's image
based culture, female athletes with larger, muscular builds, are often subjected to body shaming
critiques despite their athletic achievements.
Oral Presentation Number: C55
Interfaith Understanding and Cooperation: The Enhancement of Christian
Faith by Buddhist Ideas
Lindsay Schneider
The increasing religious diversity in Western society creates growing debate that spills over into
college communities. Since in college there is for many students a heightened sense of religious
difference, there is, for some, a great temptation to judge and reject those who are religiously different
is plaguing the minds of countless college students. The need for interfaith cooperation is exemplified
by many theologians, authors, and leaders, who exhibit the benefits of learning from different
relationships with those affiliating with different religions. Paul Knitter, a theologian, exemplifies how
learning from a different religion can enhance one's own religious identity. Knitter studied Buddhist
practices and ideas and found that learning from another faith helped him become stronger in his own
Christian faith and identity. My research focused on Paul Knitter's book, Without Buddha, I Could Not
Be a Christian, which illuminated Knitter's journey of strengthening his Christian identity and faith
while learning and studying Buddhist ideas and practices. My research also utilized a variety of sources
that provided background information about the interfaith movement and the increasing need for
interfaith in today's world. I found that Paul Knitter's work represents the wisdom and potential of the
interfaith movement by showing how Christian faith can be enhanced through its engagement with
Buddhism. Ultimately, my research illuminates the necessity for the interfaith movement in today's
society and how one's religious identity can be enriched and empowered when one is engaged in
interfaith cooperation and dialogue.
Oral Presentation Number: C56
Diocese of Crookston Faith Development Assessment Program
Brett Hettenbaugh, Ciara Duffy-Gideon
Research in recent decades has shown that increasing numbers of young adults and adolescents are
disaffiliating from religious organizations. This study examined religious and spiritual attitudes among
adolescent Catholics from a number of parishes across an entire Catholic diocese. Previous research
has investigated prayer and worship practice, attitudes towards religious organizations and activities
and spiritual well-being. This study investigated these variables in light of participants' belief in a
personal relationship with God. From the 288 valid surveys, regression analysis revealed that personal
prayer, denominational participation, and parish denominational demonstration were significant
predictors of students' degree of personal relationship with God.
Oral Presentation Number: C57
Understanding Grief and Bereavement in a Christian Community: The
Disciples' Reactions to the Coming of Christ in John 20
Quentin Markfor
The following essay examines the twentieth chapter of the Gospel of John, specifically how the body of
Jesus Christ positively aids the grief journey of the major disciples. The essay first presents definitions
of grief and bereavement and then focuses on major themes of the Gospel of John and how the Gospel
stands from the rest including the story of the Apostle Thomas and the theme of evangelism found
within the Gospel. This paper concludes by finding that the body of Jesus Christ and their interactions
with the risen Christ aids the disciples in how they journey through their personal grief and
bereavement processes. Throughout the argument there are two main themes regarding grief that are
present and illustrated through examining the text. The first is that weeping and grieving openly should
be a more widely accepted process and that second is that wanting a physical body to grieve over, that
is having proof before faith, is also accepted within the community of disciples and should be a more
commonly accepted practice.
Oral Presentation Number: C58
Landfill Leachate: What is It and What to Do with It
Grete Oanes
This project focused on finding a more sustainable way to dispose of the leachate that is generated at
the Clay County landfill. Currently, the landfill is transporting its leachate to the City of Fargo's Waste
Water Treatment Plant multiple times a day which is expensive and damaging to the environment.
Finding a new way to dispose of the county's leachate would be beneficial to the community. The
objectives of this project were to research potential options, analyze which would be best based on the
county's needs, and give my personal recommendation. To find a potential solution, I researched what
different options are currently being use and narrowed it down to which would be feasible for Clay
County based on some key criteria that needed to be considered when evaluating leachate disposal
options. I also visited several different sites to learn about what happens both at the landfill and at
different waste water treatment plants where leachate is treated. After this the options were narrowed
down to two different categories: onsite and offsite. From here, I went into further exploration of the
pros and cons of each option based on the criteria that was created earlier. The option that was found to
be the most sustainable and cost efficient was a system called Leachbuster which functions similar to
reverse osmosis with a more active and aggressive system for treating water producing a nominally
pure sample of water at the end.
Oral Presentation Number: C59
Insiders, Outsiders, and Packsackers in Ely, Minnesota: Ideology,
Community, Environmental Legislation and the Struggle to Find Common
Ground
Kelsey Dodge
Today, Ely's community is facing division between two groups: those that wish to protect the
wilderness surround Ely with heavy regulation and those that wish to use the area to provide work in
the form of mining. This research looks at the history of the conflict between environmental advocates
and Ely residents by examining how important environmental legislative changes were conceived and
how those changes impacted Ely's lifestyle. Research indicates that the tension between advocates and
residents today stem from past feelings of mistrust and aversion earned by both sides during the
stressful transitions induced by the Wilderness Act of 1964 and BWCA Wilderness Act of 1978. In
order for the animosity between the two groups to hopefully fade, advocates and residents must work
together to find common ground and develop new ideas that combine freedom and responsibility in the
wilderness.
Oral Presentation Number: C60
Exploring the Intersections Between Climate Change and Reproductive
Justice
Jessica Shamdas, Grete Oanes
Our interdisciplinary research is focused on the relationship between two different discourses,
stemming from environmental and sociological realms, and analyzing how to connect and bring them
together. Recent studies reveal a key contributing factor to climate change in addition to increased
greenhouse gas emissions, is human population growth. In light of this, we are studying population
growth as an environmental issue and the role that reproductive justice has in this discussion. The
dichotomy between them has historically led to disunion, but research indicates that they are closely
interrelated. Through our research, we have examined various literature sources regarding both topics
in order to bridge the gap between them and create a framework for future dialogue, as well as
investigated the implications this may have on society and the environment. In addition, we have
interviewed local professional involved in both fields to gain their perspective. Results have
demonstrated a lack of awareness and discussion between both topics in the community. Therefore, by
examining both these environmental and reproductive justice issues, we hope to extend our research to
the larger community by discussing the intersectionality between them and how it may be incorporated
into education or activism. We believe this topic is important to the growing climate crisis and may
provide an opportunity for us to serve as global models in the environmental sustainability movement.
Oral Presentation Number: C61
Satellite Development for Deep Space Navigation and Solar Flare
Observation
Luke Granlund
The University of Minnesota - Twin Cities SmallSat Team is developing two CubeSats for X-ray and
gamma ray characterization to fulfill two missions. The first mission is to characterize gamma-rays
from gamma ray bursts emitted by celestial sources that have the potential to be used as deep space
navigational sources. The second mission is to characterize hard X-rays emitted during solar flares to
increase the understanding of particle acceleration taking place in the sun during the solar flares. Over
the past two years, two prototype CubeSats have been developed and flown on a high altitude balloon
to prove the hardware in a near-space environment. In this process, the author developed the software
to operate the prototypes. The software was responsible for taking in readings from the sensors,
detectors, and clocks in the prototype and turning it in to data that could be saved to memory or
transmitted over radio. For both prototypes, the software was written in C, but differing underlying
architectures required different approaches. Lab testing has shown that the detector can successfully
characterize X-rays and gamma-rays, but the balloon flights have given critical insight into the
improvements that need to be made, such as better shielding and changes to the structure and mounting,
to improve the detector to handle the background noise and interference of a real-world environment.
Oral Presentation Number: C62
Nomadism & Characterization of Setting in Wes Anderson Films
Sean Zimny, Samantha Kise
Not everyone settles down and has a normal family life with a house, a spouse, and children. Some
people spend their lives in a constant state of motion, sort of like Newton's laws "they are not acted on
by an outside force", not pushed to stay in one place. The protagonists in Wes Anderson's films tend to
take part in this nomadic, transient lifestyle. Anderson's characters express this nomadism and
transience through their connections with hotels as "living spaces" particularly Zero, Royal Tenenbaum,
and Jack Whitman. Nomadic tendencies are rooted in identity, and we see this struggle with identity
through these characters. Nomadic tendencies are also related to location and how Anderson portrays
setting in his films. Star Wars has the Death Star. The Shawshank Redemption has Shawshank Prison.
Jurassic Park has Jurassic Park. No one does it better than Wes Anderson. Does what exactly? Wes
Anderson essentially makes the locations and settings of his films their own entity. As a filmmaker,
Anderson gives personality and profound characterization to the places, locations, and settings of his
films. This presentation explores the characterization and personification of the settings and locations
within Wes Anderson films, using examples from many of the movies in Anderson's filmography, his
specific use of colors, his use of stop-motion techniques, his usage of the "doll-house" technique in
filming the settings, and how the settings and locations in Anderson's films can in fact tell the audience
a great deal about the central characters.
Oral Presentation Number: C63
Origins Star Wars
Thomas Froland
When we think of Star Wars and its beginning we think of the classic 1977 movie later renamed A New
Hope. But contrary to popular belief, this was not the definite origin of the iconic franchise. In my
project focused on literary adaptions I analyze two of the three major proceeding drafts to Star Wars to
explore how they influenced the final cut and how the legendary film could have been very different.
Using "The Star Wars: First Draft" by George Lucas and Star Wars: From the Adventures of Luke
Skywalker novel by Alan Dean Foster I put the galaxy far, far away under critical lenses I have studied
in the Literary Afterlives Credo 326 class to discover a new perspective of looking at the first
installment of the original trilogy. Themes touched on will include imperialism, the patriarchy, realworld parallels, and the topic of science fiction and its place in the "literary canon."
POSTER SESSIONS PRESENTATIONS
Poster Presentation Number: P01
Comparing Effects of Roads on Native and Invasive Species in Prairie
Habitats
Olivia Hamilton, Talia Dalzell, Sara Whiteman
Previous research has shown that the abundance of invasive species is higher than that of native species
near roads in a given area. However, a large majority of these studies have focused on the interaction of
the species near roads in very urbanized areas, such as cities. Prairies are important to many ecosystems
in the North Dakota and Minnesota landscapes. Therefore, we wanted to test if roads have the same
effect on the invasive Wormwood Absinthe plant, Artemisia absinthium, and native Yellow
Coneflower, Ratibida pinnata, in prairies as they do in urban areas. The prairies near the Long Lake
field station resemble typical prairies which are undisturbed by humans. They are very diverse and
provide a niche for the many organisms that live there. Two transects were measured in prairie fields
from both gravel and paved roads. Data indicated that non-native Wormwood counts increased in
transects taken closer to the road, compared to the transects in the middle of the field. The native
coneflower species was found in higher counts, on average, in the middle of the field. This suggests
that the Wormwood may be outcompeting the Coneflower. The spread of non-native species could
infringe on the survival of the species native to the area, which could result in the reduction of the
area's biodiversity. If Wormwood Absinthe outcompetes Yellow Coneflowers to the point of extinction
of the Coneflower, a homogenous landscape would dramatically alter the prairie ecosystem.
Poster Presentation Number: P02
Burn Year Effects on Coneflower Biomass
Luke Teigen, Michael Solc
Fire often activates the recycling of nutrients in terrestrial systems. Plants that encounter fire more
frequently are more likely to utilize the nutrients to grow larger the next growing season. Yellow
coneflower (Ratibida pinnata) thrives in soil recently burned due to nutrient regeneration. For our
experiment, we investigated how fire affected biomass of the yellow coneflower. We hypothesized that
the biomass of the yellow coneflower will be greater in the fields that were burned most recently. Ten
yellow coneflower plants were collected from prairie units at the Long Lake Field Station. These units
differ in how long they have undergone a prescribed fire treatment. Plants were collected at least ten
meters from roads to avoid possible influence from road runoff. Plants were dried for two weeks and
leaves were removed to eliminate water storage. Masses of stems and cones were determined using a
hanging scale. Burning of prairies had an effect on plant biomass when comparing to an unburned
control unit (p<0.05). However, Tukey post-hoc tests did not reveal a difference in plant mass between
two prairie units burned in 2013 and 2014. Our hypothesis is only supported by comparisons involving
the unburned field. Possible errors could have resulted from lack of a desiccator. Future research could
involve doing experiments regarding biomass and burn year but with invasive species, as well as
examining the effects of prescribed fire on reproductive structures of plants.
Poster Presentation Number: P03
Urban Green Spaces: Rethinking Backyards Using the EcoHouse
Jenna Januschka, Ben Stubbs, Sam Ferguson
Habitat fragmentation, agricultural practices, and development have been the main contributing factors
to the loss of prairie within the state. Several species that are of special concern or threatened within
Minnesota rely on native prairies, such as the Western Prairie Fringed Orchid, Dakota Skipper, Baird's
Sparrow, etc., and native prairies serve as critical refuges for pollinating species. With an increasing
amount of people living in predominantly urban areas, restoration within urban areas can provide a
unique opportunity to help educate non-rural communities on native plant species and simultaneously
provide habitat for pollinator species. The purpose of this project is to create a native, pollinatorfriendly garden in the backyard of Concordia College's EcoHouse. The purpose is also to determine
how best to incorporate the local community while educating the public on native plant communities
and how to support them in an urban environment. The goal of the project is to turn the backyard of the
EcoHouse into a site demonstrating the attractiveness, viability, and benefits of landscaping with
native, pollinator-friendly plants in residential areas of the Fargo-Moorhead area.
Poster Presentation Number: P04
Consumer Confusion: Expiration Labels Leading to Food Waste
Emily Pothast, Rachel Kmett
The government agencies USDA and EPA have set a goal to reduce food waste by 50 percent by the
year 2030. Currently 21% of food loss is derived from the consumer. Multiple studies have indicated
consumer confusion when interpreting food expiration dates which has resulted in food loss. Food
waste in the United States has lead to efforts to promote a better understanding of date labels, such as
"Best by," "Sell by," and "Use by" as a possible way to eliminate food waste. Manufacturers provide
food dates to help consumers decide when food is at its best quality; however, it is not an indicator of
the product's microbiological safety causing people to throw out food before necessary. The United
States does not require open date labeling for most food products, in comparison to the stricter
regulations of the European Union. In conclusion, new proposals will be recommended to consolidate
date labels, one to indicate safety and another for quality.
Poster Presentation Number: P05
The Implications of Polyculture Agricultural Systems in a Changing
Climate
Ben Glogoza, Tyler Schneider, Liam Nuhring
The effects of pesticide utilization and application in conjunction with traditional monoculture type
crops has broad and severe implications for the farmer, the consumer, and the health of the
environment, particularly in a changing climate. Current farming practices utilize high amounts of
insecticides in order to repel pests and other unwanted elements that are harmful to monoculture
agricultural systems. It is hypothesized that the implementation of polycultural techniques will
contribute in a positive way to combating climate change and creating more sustainable farming
practices. According to recent research, efforts to introduce polyculture agricultural solutions into
mainstream farming systems, as well as on residential and commercial property, has been met with
significant success in attempts to reduce the amount of chemicals applied to crops and private
properties. This study aims to identify the overall benefits and drawbacks of introducing polyculture
solutions, through a meta-analysis of popular and relevant research. A review of the current literature
on the effects polyculture has on agricultural systems was undertaken with an emphasis on the effects
polyculture systems have upon insect populations, plant health, the reduction of insecticide use, and
climate change effects within agricultural systems. Findings from each source were then synthesized
into a coherent whole and used to analyze the effects of polyculture systems and determine if its
practice is a viable means of reducing the negative effects of monoculture systems and human-induced
climate change.
Poster Presentation Number: P06
Increase in the Protein Levels of an Anti-sprouting Factor and Integrin
Receptor, Thy-1, with Age in the Supraoptic Nucleus: Implications for a
Role in Collateral Axonal Sprouting
Talia Dalzell, Nadia Toumeh, Molly Pignato
It has been demonstrated that a young brain can overcome injury by axonal sprouting; however, it is
well understood that the mature brain has a reduced capacity for functional or structural reorganization
following injury. To this point, following injury, uninjured axons from the supraoptic nucleus (SON)
undergo collateral axonal sprouting in the 35-day-old rat, but not in 125-day-old rats. Therefore, it
appears that within the SON there are age-related changes that preclude the older rat from recovering
following injury. Cell adhesion molecules have been previously demonstrated to play a role in axonal
sprouting, both in a stimulatory and inhibitory manner. Thus, we compared protein levels of the
integrin family of cell adhesion molecules and the integrin receptor, thy-1, in 35- and 125-day-old SON
using Western blot analysis. Our results demonstrated that in the 125-day-old SON, there was a
significant increase in thy-1 protein levels, which is an anti-sprouting factor that interacts with
integrins. Conversely, there were no changes in the protein levels of alpha v, beta 3, or beta 5 integrin
when comparing the sprouting (35-day-old rat) and non-sprouting SON (125-day-old rat). Additionally,
there were no changes in protein levels of thy-1 or the integrin proteins in the neural lobe (posterior
pituitary), which is the site of axonal sprouting. Our results suggest that the observed increase in thy-1
protein levels in the SON with age may contribute to an environment that prevents the collateral axonal
sprouting in the SON of an older rat.
Poster Presentation Number: P07
Silica Nanoparticles De-acidify Endolysosomes and Increase Amyloidgenesis
in Primary Cultured Neurons
Yan Ye, Liang Hui, Hannah Wollenzien, Leo Lakpa, Xuesong Chen, Yuqian Xing, Julia Zhao
Silica nanomaterials (SiNPs) are increasingly being used as carrier molecules in consumer products and
in biomedicine. Because nanomaterials are endocytosed and because endolysosomes are important sites
for amyloidogenesis we tested the hypothesis that SiNPs may change biological functions of
endolysosomes including beta-amyloid (ABeta) formation. In this study, we found that following
endocytosis of SiNPs into primary cultured hippocampal neurons, ABeta1-40 secretion was
significantly increased and that this increase was accompanied by elevated protein expressions of NAPP and BACE-1. In addition, we found that SiNPs caused rapid deacidification of neuronal
endolysosomes and that this increase in pH persisted for at least 24 hours after SiNP application.
Furthermore, application of the lysosomotrophic agent glycyl-L-phenylalanine 2-naphthylamide (GPN)
induced lysosomal calcium release and that this release was reduced by SiNPs. Moreover, two agents
that caused endolysosome acidification, MLSA-1 (TRPML1 agonist) or CGS21680 (adenosine A2A
receptor agonist), significantly decreased SiNP-induced deacidification of endolysosomes and ABeta140 generation. Collectively, our findings suggest that SiNP-induced deacidification of endolysosomes
might be mechanistically linked to increased amyloidogenesis and such findings provide a cautionary
note about using certain NPs because of potentially negative effects on neurons and the pathogenesis of
neurodegenerative disease where ABeta is implicated.
Poster Presentation Number: P08
Investigating the Molecular Partners of VISTA Signaling
Logan Jacobs
The immune system is regulated by co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory ligands and receptors that give T
cells the second signal for activation. These ligands balance positive and negative co-stimulation to
respond to foreign bodies, but also inhibit autoimmune responses. One of these B7 ligands is the Vdomain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) expressed on antigen presenting cells (APCs) and T
cells. VISTA has been shown to suppress T cell activation and its absence increases susceptibility to
autoimmunity. However, not much is known about its molecular interactions such as the receptor or
intercellular signaling pathway. Considering the potential role of VISTA in autoimmune diseases,
characterizing the signaling pathway could provide future targets for anti-autoimmune prevention or
therapy. Previous work utilized a BioID technique to identify proximal proteins with the cytoplasmic
domain of VISTA molecule. A biotin ligase was fused onto the cytoplasmic tail of VISTA which
biotinylated the proximal proteins. Biotinylated proteins were captured and identified through mass
spectrometry; the results provided candidates for further study. One of the candidates Discs Large
Homolog 1 (Dlg1) is a scaffolding protein that has been shown to be important in couple extracellular
stimuli and intracellular signaling. Studies have also shown Dlg1 has a role in TCR signaling as a
negative regulator of T cell proliferation. The important signaling functions are the result of its ability
to interact with cytoskeletal regulators and signal transducers. These attributes make Dlg1 a worthy
interacting candidate for interaction with the VISTA molecule in inducing a negative signaling cascade.
Poster Presentation Number: P09
EphrinB1 Expression in Pediatric Leukemia
Alexandra Hopkins
In leukemia, normally developing hematopoietic precursors acquire a leukemogenic mutation early in
differentiation, transforming hematopoietic stem cells into leukemic stem cells. This transformation
results in a differentiation arrest that inhibits normal blood cell maturation but still allows rapid
proliferation, leading to the build up of immature leukemia cell blasts. Acute Myeloid Leukemia
(AML) and Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) are forms of pediatric leukemia that continue to
have poor clinical outcomes despite aggressive treatment. EphrinB1, a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK),
is part of a family of RTKs that modulate cell growth and immune mediated clearance of tumor cells.
EphrinB1 in particular has recently been identified as a possible regulator of tumor suppression in
AML. The objective of this study was to gather baseline expression of ephrinB1 in pediatric AML and
ALL human cell lines, as well as measure how ephrinB1 expression changes over leukemic
transformation in a mouse model. In part one of the experiment, bone marrow was harvested from
mice, followed by a lineage depletion procedure to isolate the bone marrow progenitors. An ex vivo
transduction of leukemic oncogenes into the lineage negative bone marrow was used to create a
leukemic mouse model. In part two, the pediatric leukemia human cell lines were maintained. cDNA
was synthesized from both the mouse model cells and human cell lines, then ephrinB1 expression was
quantified using RT-qPCR and SYBR green for amplification detection.
Poster Presentation Number: P10
Undergraduate Research on Undergraduate Research
Adam Kessler
In today's global economy, employers are asking higher education establishments to place more
emphasis on developing "skills such as critical thinking, complex problem-solving, communication,
and applying knowledge to real world settings"• (Hart Research Associates, 2013, p.7). Recent studies
on undergraduate research have demonstrated student gains in these skills. It has been found that,
compared to less active pedagogies, undergraduate research is more likely to meet the needs of STEM
workforce development and that undergraduate research is associated with gains in creativity, problem
solving and innovation. To contribute to the body of research on undergraduate research, and to better
understand the impact of our own programming, this research utilized self-report survey data to
determine the effectiveness of undergraduate research at Concordia in providing students with the
personal and intellectual gains needed to succeed in graduate and professional life. This project focuses
on alumni perspectives of the summer research program at Concordia, however, it also compares
current student and alumni gains in personal development, intellectual skills, and skills related to
research or a career. Analysis of the summer research survey data revealed that students report
significant personal and intellectual gains, as well as significant gains in skills connected to research
and careers for both current students and alumni.
Poster Presentation Number: P11
Morphological and Biochemical Variation in Elodea spp. in their Native and
Invasive Ranges
Rebecca Dahl, Ruth Sexton
Elodea nuttallii (Hydrocharitaceae) and E. canadensis are two aquatic plants common throughout
North America. They provide valuable shelter and grazing opportunities for fish, muskrats and
waterfowl in lake or river ecosystems, but can also become overgrown nuisances in their native ranges.
In Europe, E. canadensis and E. nuttallii have different invasion histories, which may have created
morphological and biochemical changes as each responded to the unique circumstances of their
invasion. In some cases, E. canadensis is considered to be an environmentally harmless naturalized
species, whereas E. nuttallii is often considered a nuisance species. Three populations of E. canadensis
and E. nuttallii from Minnesota and France were observed for morphological and chemical differences.
E. canadensis was found to have greater biomass, leaf area, and leaf width than E. nuttallii.
Understanding differences that exist in the invasive and native ranges will help determine whether there
are variables that can be exploited in controlling invasive plants.
Poster Presentation Number: P12
Effect of Plant Density and Diversity on Nutrient Retention in Soil
David Supinski, Wyatt Lautt
The importance of rain gardens is found in their ability to filter storm water before it contaminates
natural water supplies and also to collect and return it to the water table before it floods man-made
water management systems. A rain garden's ability to handle large amounts of water greatly depends
on the type of soil present and the types of plants found in the rain garden. To investigate the
effectiveness of the rain garden at Long Lake Field Station, we measured plant diversity and density
and compared it to nitrogen and phosphorous concentrations in the soil. We conducted tests on three
different sites to isolate the variable of vegetation density and diversity. We found the rain garden
retained a higher concentration of nitrogen and phosphorous in conjunction with its greater plant
variety and richness. The pseudo rain garden, selected for its comparable vegetation profile contained
high levels of nutrients also while the grass site was measured to be significantly lower. Considering
the rain garden showed the highest plant diversity and density and reported the greatest concentrations
of nutrients, our results support our hypothesis that higher plant density and diversity have a positive
effect on nutrient retention in soil. These results can be applied to further research and to justify the use
of rain gardens to improve environmental conditions.
Poster Presentation Number: P13
NADPH Inhibition of Cytoplasmic Glutamate Dehydrogenase from
Escherichia coli
Taylor Crothers
The goal of this research was to uncover some of the regulatory effects that alter the way E. coli
glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) functions. Specifically, the effects of NADPH, which is a product of
the oxidative deamination reaction catalyzed by GDH. This was done by using constant concentrations
of GDH, water, MOPS buffer, NADP+, with variable concentrations of NADPH, and glutamate. This
was analyzed at both half-saturated and saturated NADP+ at both pH 8.0 and pH 9.0. It was found that
NADPH exhibits a mix of competitive and non-competitive inhibition.
Poster Presentation Number: P14
Ammonia Inhibition of Glutamate Binding on E. coli Glutamate
Dehydrogenase
Tatum Holt, Cullen Knowles, Jessica Warzecka
Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) catalyzes the reversible oxidation-deamination reaction of Lglutamate to alpha-ketoglutarate (2-oxoglutarate) using NADP+ (Sharkey 2013). We examined the
effect of ammonia on E. coli GDH over a wide range of ammonia concentrations. The LineweaverBurke plots displayed noncompetitive inhibition of ammonia on GDH.
Poster Presentation Number: P15
Speciation of Neisseria Isolates Using the rplF Gene
Coulton Dangerfield, Bethany Freeland, Madeline Gemuenden, Erika Grinde, Sarah Hildebrandt,
Kailey Lamb, Scott Opatril, Erin Pennington, Isabella Stromberg, Kevin Wolfe
The bacterial genus Neisseria includes the pathogens N. meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae, as well as
non-pathogenic species that are part of the healthy human microbiome. The presence of particular
nonpathogenic Neisseria at pharyngeal and oral body sites has been correlated with protection against
N. meningitidis, dental caries, and periodontitis. Nonpathogenic Neisseria are also being investigated
for their ability to produce new antimicrobial agents. The goal of our project is to use a recently-
developed genetic approach to accurately determine the species identity of 48 nonpathogenic strains of
Neisseria from a Concordia College isolate collection. Previous speciation approaches relied on
growth characteristics, biochemical testing, and analysis of the 16SrRNA gene. However, sequence
analysis of the rplF gene, which encodes a ribosomal protein, has been shown to be a more reliable
technique for neisserial speciation. We have extracted genomic DNA from the members of our isolate
collection and successfully used the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify rplF sequences from
47 of the 48 target strains. We have also implemented spin column and enzymatic techniques for PCR
product purification and prepared highly purified products from nine of the target strains. Once rplF
amplification and purification is complete, we will determine the DNA sequence of the genes and use
bioinformatics tools to compare our sequences to the sequences of known Neisseria species in the
Oxford Maiden Group Bacterial Isolate Genome Sequence database. Our speciation results will be
utilized in future studies examining the pigmentation, antimicrobial activity, and other intercellular
interactions displayed by different Neisseria.
Poster Presentation Number: P16
Bioinformatic Identification of Cell-to-Cell Communication Molecules in
Neisseria Species
Scott Opatril, Bethany Freeland, Sarah Hildebrandt
The genus Neisseria includes a diverse group of bacteria. Nonpathogenic Neisseria species are
important components of the normal human microbiome, which contains over 700 bacterial species. N.
meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae are human pathogens. Some bacteria produce known signaling
molecules that facilitate interspecies and intraspecies communication, however this is not well
characterized in Neisseria species. The goal of this project is to determine if Neisseria contain known
sequences involved in cell-to-cell communication. We used BLAST to search the genomes of 25
Neisseria species in the NCBI database for the translated amino acid sequences of genes involved in
two distinct signaling systems. One communication method involves N-acyl homoserine. The genes
involved in the production of N-acyl homoserine are luxR and luxI. No significant matches were
identified. The second communication method we investigated involves the production of autoinducer2 (AI-2). This has previously been studied in N. meningitidis, but not in other Neisseria species. Two
proteins involved in the biosynthesis of AI-2 are Pfs and LuxS and the proteins LuxP and LuxQ are
receptors for AI-2. The pfs, luxS, and luxQ sequences were each found in the same 16/25 Neisseria
species. The simultaneous presence of biosynthetic and receptor proteins may indicate that AI-2 is used
for intraspecies communication in some Neisseria species. The remaining nine species that do not
contain these sequences do not appear to use this system. These results can contribute to our
understanding of bacterial communication in the human microbiome and provide possible insight into
protection from pathogenic Neisseria.
Poster Presentation Number: P17
Cultural Awareness in the Healthcare Field: Dignifying the Needs and
Values of Muslim Patients
Chelsey Petrich, Jessica Kongelf
Cultural barriers can lead to challenges in providing optimal healthcare to patients of various
ethnicities, religions and races. This research focused on how cultural differences of Muslim patients
may create obstacles and confusion between the healthcare provider and the patient. The beliefs and
values of Muslim patients can affect their behaviors within various healthcare settings and with various
providers. A basic understanding of Muslim patients' needs can help providers offer culturally
appropriate care. The most prevalent points of discord that were found throughout the sources utilized
were language and communication barriers, the role of modesty in medicine, the restrictions on skin-toskin contact, and the dietary guidelines that can affect the administration of nutrition and medication.
Following the general research conducted, interviews with various healthcare providers in the FargoMoorhead area were held in order to gain a better understanding of how this issue is handled locally.
An interview with an Emergency Room Registered Nurse and a Doctor of Optometry were conducted
via email. The perspectives and experiences given by these providers were consistent with the broader
research conducted prior. Thorough communication and gaining a basic understanding of the values
and beliefs of Muslim patients' needs can help eliminate any potential for embarrassment and give the
patient dignity by respecting their needs. However, providers should be cautioned not to generalize or
oversimplify the unique needs of each individual patient to avoid solidifying any adverse stigmas.
Poster Presentation Number: P18
Underlying Cause of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Karsen Granning, Graham Hegstad, Andrew Johnson, Emma Chandler
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a congenital disorder that affects the left side of the heart.
The aorta, aortic valve, left ventricle, and mitral valve are underdeveloped and unable to pump blood
throughout the body effectively. The underlying cause is unknown, but there is research that suggests
that genetics could be the origin of this disorder. Two of the genes that are proposed as being a cause is
the MYH6 and MYH7. The MYH6 gene encodes for myosin heavy chains prevalent in the atrium during
development and the ventricle after birth. The MYH7 gene also encodes for myosin heavy chains
prevalent in the ventricle during both development and adulthood. The underlying cause of HLHS is
linked to mutations on the MYH6 and MYH7 genes located on the fourteenth chromosome. These
mutations lead to improper development and function of the myosin heavy chains which result in the
underdevelopment of the left side of the heart. A viable form of treating HLHS would be gene therapy
on the developing fetus. Viruses and hematopoietic stem cells would be utilized to infiltrate and deliver
the new DNA sequences would replace the defective code.
Poster Presentation Number: P19
The Effect of Video Games on Aggression: Gamers vs Non-gamers
Allison Chudy
Video games have been a topic of discussion since their invention, especially the more violent ones.
Researchers have been trying for years to figure out if violent video games cause violent or aggressive
behavior. However, much of the research published only focus on adolescent boys, not adults or
women. Most research also only focuses on the aggression itself, not the factors that could potentially
cause variation. My research attempts to look into this question from a different angle by looking at
differences between genders, types of gamers, and life satisfaction. I wanted to know how aggression
was affected by gender, frequency of game play, and life satisfaction. The participants will be playing a
frustrating video game and I will take measurements on their aggression levels pre and post game play
and how satisfied with their lives they are. This is an ongoing project at the time of submission, but I
am expecting to find that video games will raise aggressive affect temporarily, but the frequency of
which one plays violent video games will not affect their life satisfaction. The second outcome I am
expecting to finds is that people who don't play video games will have more temporary aggression than
the people who play video games. The third outcome I am expecting to find minimal variation between
the genders.
Poster Presentation Number: P20
Immunization Hesitancy: Strategies for Professionals
Jennifer Keibler, Reba Arberle, Grant Curtis, Taylor Gendreau
Reducing child mortality has been identified as 1 of 8 Millennium Development Goals by the United
Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Worldwide the under-five mortality rate has been
reduced by two-thirds between 1990 and 2015. A large part of this success has been efficient vaccines
to decrease preventable disease. Despite the success story of immunizations and cost-effectiveness for
reducing childhood mortality and morbidity in the United States and worldwide, some parents continue
to not vaccinate their children. The number one reason parents cite for not vaccinating their children is
fear of adverse effects including disease contraction and autism. A literature review of research was
undertaken, aimed at evaluating current research about parental immunization hesitancy and parental
education in hopes of finding a proper educational strategy for health care providers as well as the need
for further research. While there are several organizations, including the CDC and the Research
Council of Norway, researching ways to decrease parental immunization hesitancy, there are few to no
studies done by the nursing discipline. Some nursing research was found but focused on other topics
such as: evidence-based practice of administration of the immunizations by distraction, and increasing
immunization rates via school nurse programs. Nursing staff is often the ones administering
immunizations as well as offering education, thus a model for consistent nursing interventions could be
an efficient modality to further increase immunization rates and decrease the childhood mortality.
Further nursing research could include trials of nursing staff utilizing some of the educational resources
developed by the CDC and the Research Council of Norway or development of a nursing specific
education protocol for immunizations. Education that begins prenatally for expectant parents could also
greatly impact the rate of immunization among children.
Poster Presentation Number: P21
Feminism in Saudi Arabia: The Struggle Between Tradition and Equal
Rights
Rosie Breimhurst
Women's rights in Saudi Arabia are limited in comparison to many of its neighbors - yet many
conservative Saudi Arabian women do not support the loosening of gender roles and restrictions, on the
grounds that Saudi Arabia is the closest thing to a "pure Islamic nation" and is "under threat from the
West". There are many common misconceptions about women's rights in Saudi Arabia, and Islam is
not to blame for "gender segregation", it is the culture. Saudi Arabia is often presented as the poster
child for women's oppression in Western media. It is very true that these women face difficulties in
almost every facet of life, and many believe that the whole system of women's subordination to men
needs to be dismantled. I spoke with Saudi Arabian artist Hend al-Monsour, who had an art exhibition
during Symposium week. I asked her a few questions about life as a woman in Saudi Arabia as she
knew it, and received some very interesting and informative answers. Saudi Arabia is a perfect place
for those who share similar customs and values that are imposed by Sharia law, and that equality there
is interpreted differently. There are many Saudi Arabian people, including women, who believe that the
gender segregation they experience is just and equal under the Qu'ran. Many are content with their lives
and believe they aren't entitled to more, while many other women believe the opposite and advocate for
their rights.
Poster Presentation Number: P22
To Oppress and Empower: The Paradox of the King James Bible
Ali Froslie
Published in 1611, the King James Version of the Bible (KJV) has been and remains one of the most
popular English translations of the Bible. This text has been used to oppress and bless. For example,
the King James translators interpreted the Greek word for "slave" with the milder word "servant,"
making, for some, slavery easier to defend as a biblical concept. However, the KJV has also been a
symbol of hope and empowerment for the disenfranchised. In Old England, some thought English
peasants unworthy to read the Bible, but the peasants nevertheless wished to read a Bible in their own
language. The African American community in the USA also took the text that helped enslave them
and turned it into a symbol of freedom, power, and knowledge. The Bible motivated many to seek
literacy. The KJV, while owning to its role as the great oppressor, has also found a place as the great
opportunity maker.
Poster Presentation Number: P23
Music: A Meditative Form of Mindfulness
Sarah Johnson
In today's busy world, people are often caught up in the hectic pace of their daily lives, and their
bodies, minds, and souls suffer. We become forgetful, tired, numb, and our entire well-being decreases.
The lack of mindfulness in America today is staggering. However, with the curative power of music,
our bodies and minds can be restored into a renewed sense of presence and well-being. Listening to
music can alleviate our physical and mental suffering; thus music can play a meditative role in calming
the body and mind. Scientific studies suggest that listening to music for even short periods of time can
help regulate heartbeat, elevate mood, relieve anxiety, raise self-esteem, and increase equanimity.
Making music has been shown to have similar meditative benefits, increasing a person's sense of
presence and peace. In addition to consulting and analyzing scientific research on the meditative
benefits of music, I also draw on some musicians' memoirs to illustrate how attending to the melodies,
notes, intention, imagery, and emotional beauty of music promote self-awareness, introspection,
physical health, and sensitivity to others. Ultimately, my paper uses scientific research and personal
stories to illuminate the meditative function and the therapeutic/transformative power of music.
Poster Presentation Number: P24
Understanding Stigma and the Negative Effect of Stigma on Mental Health
Sarah Strand
A mental illness is a psychological disorder that can affect mood, cognitive thinking, and certain
behaviors. The majority of mental illnesses are caused by a combination of genetic, neurological,
social, and environmental factors, which is different from how society may view a mental disorder as a
flaw or weakness of the mind. This lack of understanding and negative view of mental illness has led to
increased stigma towards psychological disorders over time, leading to negative stereotyping and
discrimination in society of mentally ill people. By exploring the topic of mental illness and the
specific psychological disorder of depression through psychological research articles, it is evident that
the stigmatization of mental illness comes from the lack of understanding of what a psychological
disorder is. Another cause of stigma includes how society views those with a mental illness as the
dangerous outcasts of society, which is a stereotype perpetuated by the media. Furthermore, the
stigmatization of mental health negatively affects those with psychological disorders because it
prevents such persons from seeking treatment and ultimately renders them unable to be a fully
contributing member of their community. In order to reduce this stigma, important figures in the field
of psychology and medicine should speak out to educate society, become more involved in policymaking, and understand mental illness as a bio-psycho-social issue.
Poster Presentation Number: P25
Fruits and Vegetables of the Spirit: Does Scripture Promote a Plant-Based
Diet?
Katherine Trapani
Some Christian vegetarians follow an agrarian lifestyle as a matter of their faith; however, it is unclear
if commonly used Scripture in the defense for vegetarianism is truly about following a plant-based diet.
This analysis refutes that vegetarianism is a biblically-based standard for modern Christians as it is not
supported by various biblical commentators and religious doctrine. The Seventh Day Adventists follow
a vegetarian lifestyle as supported by Ellen White's visions from God which should be encouraged
though not regarded as Scripturally supported. Regarding vegetarianism from a truly Scripture-based
belief, there is no definitive biblical support that God intended humankind to follow such a lifestyle.
Passages such as Genesis 1:29-31, Isaiah 11:6-9 and Daniel 1:1-21 tell of God's provision, salvation
and faithfulness, respectively, but not of dietary patterns. Other verses, such as Genesis 9:2-3 and Luke
24:42-43, plainly state that all food is clean. Christian vegetarians should not feel discouraged from
their dietary lifestyle, but instead need to be aware of biblical context that supports an omnivorous diet.
Instead, Christians can explore biblical themes or other worldviews to defend their eating habits.
Poster Presentation Number: P26
Cerebrospinal Fluid Diversion: Regonizing and Treating Shunt Malfunction
Stephanie Halvorson, Samantha Pratt, Rachelle Rajdl, Kayla Stanelle
Among the pediatric population, hydrocephalus is a major cerebrospinal fluid problem occurring in
about one to two of every 1,000 newborn babies. Hydrocephalus is caused by a buildup of
cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain due to blockage of flow or absorption of fluid. Due to
the buildup, the ventricles will enlarge, causing pressure and swelling that can be damaging to the
brain. To decrease the amount of pressure in the ventricle and help treat hydrocephalous, shunts have
been initiated and inserted to divert the cerebrospinal fluid to another part of the body where it can be
reabsorbed as it should have been in the ventricle. The purpose of this research project was to conduct a
literature review of current nursing literature regarding the trends in the management of children with
shunts, and to highlight the institutions conducting research on this topic.
Poster Presentation Number: P27
Does the Bit Fit?: Determining the Validity of the Fitbit Charge 2 in
Estimating Energy Expenditure in Physically Active College Students
Cara Stadstad
The Fitbit Charge 2 is one of the newest models of physical activity trackers which is specifically
designed to track active fitness. Although widely used, the validity of Fitbit physical activity trackers,
particularly the Fitbit Charge 2, is not well established. The goal of this research study is to determine
the validity of the Fitbit Charge 2 in estimating energy expenditure. Ten physically active college aged
individuals from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN were recruited for this study. Each participant
completed two exercise trials of 20 to 30 minutes on a treadmill of moderate and vigorous intensity
respectively. During each trial, energy expenditure was measured using Fitbit Charge 2 and indirect
calorimetry, via Medgraphics Metabolic (CPET/CPX) cart, and was compared to standard metabolic
equations. Moderate intensity was valued at 75-85% age-predicted maximum heart rate and an RPE of
12-14. Vigorous intensity was valued at 85-90% age-predicted maximum heart rate and an RPE of 1517. Results have not yet been obtained as data collection for this study is currently ongoing. Results
will be analyzed using ANOVA comparing caloric expenditure among the three methods. Although
results have not yet been gathered and analyzed, other research studies determining the validity of
Fitbit physical activity trackers have found that Fitbits generally overestimate energy expenditure.
Therefore, it is hypothesized this model of the Fitbit will also overestimate energy expenditure in
comparison to indirect calorimetry and standard metabolic equations.
Poster Presentation Number: P28
The Calculus of Proportional αDerivatives
Laura LeGare, Grace Bryan
We introduce a new proportional α-derivative with parameter α in [0,1], explore its calculus properties,
and give several examples of our results. First, we provide an introduction to our proportional αderivative and some of its basic calculus properties. We next investigate the system of α-lines which
make up our curved yet Euclidean geometry, as well as address traditional calculus concepts such as
Rolle’s Theorem and the Mean Value Theorem in terms of our α-derivative. We also introduce a new
α-integral to be paired with our α-derivative, which leads to proofs of the Fundamental Theorem of
Calculus Parts I and II, as applied to our formulas. Finally, we provide instructions on how to locate αmaximum and α-minimum values as they are related to our type of Euclidean geometry, including an
increasing and decreasing test, concavity test, and first and second α-derivative tests.
Poster Presentation Number: P29
Determining What Are Considered Adaptations: Dante's The Divine
Comedy and C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce
Logan Jorgenson
The world of adaptation studies is broad. In this field of study, the focus is on the intertextuality of the
many creative works that are related to each other. This comes with classifying which works should be
considered adaptations on other works and which works should be considered originals. While there is
no clear-cut way to determine what is an adaptation and what is not, this question must still be asked,
and an answer must be attempted. This question arises when looking at Dante's The Divine Comedy and
C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce. Both these works draw from many outside sources, however, Lewis's
work should be considered more of an adaptive work while Dante's should be considered more of an
original work. This is because Dante did not build on his sources directly but used them to advance his
story. In Lewis's case, The Great Divorce draws on outside sources but is too closely related to Dante's
work in structure and symbol to be considered completely original. By looking at secondary sources
that explore The Divine Comedy and The Great Divorce separately and in relation to one another, I
show that Dante's work is only influenced by the works of Homer, Ovid, and Virgil but is not a direct
adaptation on them and that Lewis's work is an adaptation in several ways, mainly a responsive text, a
parallel, a pastiche, and an allusion.
Poster Presentation Number: P30
Immigration, The Current Conundrum
Maret Wibel
The United States is built on a history of immigration. With the new presidency many changes are
being proposed to the system that is currently in place. My project looks at the system of checks that is
already in place for refugees looking to enter the United States and the implication of new proposed
policy on asylum seekers. I also look at how an immigration ban will impact our policy and ability to
serve those seeking asylum. My project addresses proposed changes to detention centers, the way the
US prosecutes illegal immigrants, and the way that ICE officer's jobs will change under the legislature
that Trump has proposed. This is important because to be informed citizens we need to understand the
realities of the immigration system in the United States. My project specifically concentrates on how
changes to the policy will impact illegal immigrants and refugees attempting to enter the United States.
Through my research I have found that the policy already in place is so difficult to navigate it hinders
our ability to serve refugees and that the proposed changes to combat illegal immigration will be an
economic burden as well as harmful to those attempting to enter the United States.
Poster Presentation Number: P31
Aloha Survivance: The Decolonization of Hawai'i in Victoria Kneubuhl's
Plays
Sara Funkhouser, William Huff Towle, Abby Kruse, Margaret Noah, Kate Rinke, Sarah Schauer, April
Sympson, Andrea Tedrick, Johnathan Wagner
Victorian Kneubuhl's four Hawaiian plays take on issues of Hawaiian history, identity, religion,
environmental degradation, sexual commodification, and the politics of cultural appropriation. We have
created a SCALAR website that provides critical assessment of these four plays and explores the
context and implications of the attendent issues. In our analyses, we draw on Native American novelist
and critical theorist Gerald Vizenor's concept of survivance that recognizes how indigenous peoples
develop strategies not merely to survive the onslaught of EuroAmerican dominance but moreso to resist
being inundated by the colonial power. Through using select contemporary critical approaches
including postcolonial and ecofeminist lenses, we demonstrate how Kneubuhl's plays document
instances of the survivance of Hawaiian culture. After the COSS launch, the website will be available
for scholars and readers all over the world to engage at http://scalar.usc.edu/works/aloha-survivancethe-decolonization-of-hawaii-in-victoria-kneubuhls-plays/index. Presenters will guide COSS attendees
through the design and features of the website.
Poster Presentation Number: P32
Transgender Management for Pediatric Nursing
Paige Jagol, Rachel Tolkinen, Leah Benthin, Lexie Lee, Emily Honl
Transgender children, sometimes referred to as children with gender dysphoria, refers to those who are
born with the genetic traits of one gender but have assumed the characteristics of another gender. This
specific population faces many challenges in the development of their identity as well as challenges
within society due to cultural expectations. Striving for balance, learning to cope, questioning, and
eventually becoming comfortable with one's gender identity and sexual orientation are of utmost
importance for healthy growth and development. Without proper support and management from
healthcare providers for these challenges, the risk for unhealthy behaviors increases. It is vital that
support is given to transgender youth to assist with gender identity and to decrease additional risk
factors. A review of top 10 nursing journals from 2005 to 2009 had only 8 articles (out of 5,000) that
focused on LGBT issues. Research found on transgender management from 3 credible, medical
databases found: CINAHL with the search "transgender", "pediatrics", and "nursing"= 3 sources in the
last 5 years; PubMed with the search "transgender", "pediatrics", and "nursing"= 6 sources in the last 5
years; and Academic Search Premier with the search words "transgender", "pediatrics", and "nursing"=
7 sources in the last 5 years. Databases provided minimal resources to address the topic of healthcare
management and transgender youth. Need for more nursing research is evident due to the increasing
number of referrals to pediatric medical centers for gender dysphoria.
Poster Presentation Number: P33
High-Protein Meal Replacement Shakes
Kendra Stoick, Anna Herkenhoff
The purpose of this study is to determine if high-protein meal replacement shakes (MRS) can be used
for healthy weight loss and other health benefits among college students. In recent years, MRS have
become a popular source for individuals to consume convenient, low-calorie meals to reduce weight.
Studies have compared different types of MRS based on their amount of protein content to determine
which types of MRS have higher health benefits. In this study, we surveyed Concordia College
students to determine the types of MRS they consume and how frequently they consumed them. This
survey also determined what types of students are more likely to consume MRS and their reasoning for
consumption. The result of this study will help determine the frequency of use of these products by
college students and how these fit into their traditional meal patterns.
Poster Presentation Number: P34
Fat Face Off: Which Oil is Best?
Nicky Crane, Erica Hauf
There is significant controversy over which oils are most beneficial to consume on a regular basis.
Coconut, olive, and vegetable oil were compared based on their effect on both low and high density
lipoproteins, or bad and good cholesterol, as well as their essential fatty acid content. Research shows
that the type of oil you consume affects your health. College students who are responsible for their own
cooking were surveyed on which oils they think are the most beneficial and which they consume most
often. For example, coconut oil is a current interest of research in the United States and is perceived as
being a healthier fat despite being saturated. There is no miracle oil, each oil has a different
composition and different health benefits or drawbacks.
Poster Presentation Number: P35
Solution or Scam: The Gluten Free Diet
Aaron Senne, Dan Marquette
Celiac disease and non-immune gluten sensitivity combined make up to 4 million people of the general
population, and the only treatment is by adhering to a gluten free diet. Yet, recently in last few years
these groups aren't the only people buying gluten free products. An estimated 40 million people are
purchasing gluten free products for either Celiac, gluten sensitivity, or fad diet purposes. The gluten
free diet, although used as a treatment, is very hard to adhere to without help of a registered dietitian. It
is costly, and can be low in vital nutrients. For every $33 a person with no gluten restriction spends at
the grocery store, a gluten free consumer spends $100 dollars. Along with the gluten free diet not only
being expensive, research has shown this diet is often low in Vitamins D, B12, folate, iron, zinc,
magnesium, and calcium.
Poster Presentation Number: P36
Recovery of Biodiversity through Shoreline Restoration
Megan Dondelinger, Ariana Huber, Riley Kramer, Amelia Amon
In 2009 Concordia College began the process of restoring habitats at the Long Lake Field Station, near
Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. One of these restorations involves a piece of shoreline that was previously
landscaped by the former owners. The main goals of restoration include attempting to bring the species
abundance and diversity of the land back to its original state. In order to assess the progress of these
efforts, we conducted experiments comparing species abundance and diversity at three locations around
Long Lake. These locations were a natural area, the restored property, and a currently landscaped area.
A 10 x 10 meter area was established at each location and species were captured in these areas using
sweep netting. When the data were analyzed, we found the highest species abundance and diversity in
the natural shoreline and the restored shoreline numbers very similar to natural shoreline. Alternately,
the landscaped shoreline had very few species and very low diversity. Our results indicate that the
restored shoreline is more comparable to the natural shoreline than the currently landscaped shoreline.
In conclusion, it appears that Concordia's shoreline restoration efforts at Long Lake Field Station are
accomplishing the goal of reestablishing species abundance and diversity.
Poster Presentation Number: P37
Behavioral Differences of Red Squirrels (Tamiascurus hudsonicus) and
Eastern Gray Squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) on an Urban College Campus
Dianessa Dizon, Beth Ringwelski, Kailee Zabolotny, Brooke Maruska, Meia Kjellberg
The behavioral patterns of American red (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) and eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus
carolinensis) were observed on Concordia College's campus. Squirrels are beneficial to study since
they are in such close proximity to humans and exhibit complex behaviors. Also, the pattern in which
they store food differs between species and serves as a model for other animals. The Competitive
Exclusion Principle states that two species are not able to coexist in the same habitat, if they are using
similar resources in similar ways. This may apply to the red and gray squirrels as they are using a
similar food sources in the same location. The purpose of this research was to compare and contrast the
activity budget of each of the squirrel species. Our goal was to examine squirrel behavior to see if there
were differences in resource use that would reduce competition, allow for resource partitioning, and
promote coexistence. The behaviors observed between the squirrels did differ. The red squirrels spent
more time chasing, while the gray squirrels spent more time foraging. This difference conveys the fact
that though red and gray squirrels are a similar species but their behavioral patterns differ, particularly
with food acquisition and territoriality. Thus they are able to inhabit the same location even though
their sources of food are similar.
Poster Presentation Number: P38
Benevolent Sexism as a Moderator of the Effect of Attachment Anxiety on
Romantic Relational Quality
Emily Campbell, Sarah Mattison
Individuals who have high anxious attachment desire closeness, but have fears that they will be rejected
or abandoned, resulting in increased distress and decreased relational quality around couple conflict.
Benevolent sexism (BS), one of two ambivalent sexism ideologies, prescribes the expression of caring
and protecting attitudes toward women (Overall, Sibley, & Tan, 2011). A study by Cross, Overall, and
Hammond (2016) found that males who act out of BS ideals may help anxiously attached women feel
more secure and satisfied in their relationship. The present study investigated the relationship between
women's attachment anxiety and relational quality, predicting that male's BS would be a positive
moderator of this relationship. Participants were undergraduate students from a small liberal arts
college. Measures for attachment anxiety, relational quality, and benevolent sexism were administered
to couples in questionnaires prior to and following a conflict discussion. A multi-level modeling
analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between women's attachment anxiety, relational
quality and men's BS. The hypothesis was not supported; however, the relationship between female
attachment anxiety and male relational quality was significantly moderated by male BS. Additionally,
female BS led to decreased female relational quality. BS endorsed by men and women appears to
negatively impact their own relational quality, and this is possibly due to the stringent expectations of
men and women to conform to traditional roles in the relationship. Future studies should consider
measuring variables on affect and partner-perceived BS.
Poster Presentation Number: P39
Is ISIS Really Winning the Media War?
Haley Jaeger, Taylor Smith
The twenty-first century is a time for mass communication through the use of social media and other
media outlets. There was the invention of Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter; all platforms by which
ideologies can be spread quickly. That being said war can't just be won on the battlefields anymore.
Ideologies must be fought through media. You must inspire your own side while breaking down the
other sides will to fight. Extremist groups have been using media for decades, but the importance of it
hasn't been clear until the last few years. The war in media is just as if not more important than the war
on the battlefield. We will look at videos, Twitter, and magazines being used by ISIS to determine if
they are really winning the media war.
Poster Presentation Number: P40
Coping with Death when Diagnosed with a Terminal Illness
Sam Parsons, Peter Vukovich-Simonson
Upon diagnosis of a terminal illness, the method of coping differs for each person. One of the main
differences arises from whether the end-of-life patient is particularly religious or not. This affects
possible feelings of hope or uncertainty (Sand, 2009). In a study, it was found that religious people
generally feel more comfortable about the concept of death than non-religious people. Using palliative
care or a nursing home also influences these patients (Bradley, Frizelle, & Johnson, 2010). Various
terminally-ill patients develop unusual coping mechanisms, such as a newfound reliance on drugs or
alcohol (Jha, Plummer, & Bowers, 2011). Different experts analyzed terminally-ill patients and came
up with their own perceptions on various coping styles. Boyraz developed three main ways that people
cope with death, the "accept," "neutral," and "escape" attitudes (Boyraz, 2014). Kübler-Ross focused
on the "normal" way to deal with impending death by coming up with a list of stages of dying. She
distinguished five steps, which were "denial," "anger," "bargaining," "depression," and "acceptance"
(Kübler-Ross, 1969). Wright opposes the ideas of Kübler-Ross and says there is no normal way to cope
(Wright, 2003). Instead, he lists "relationship styles" that he finds is common, but not necessary, with
terminally-ill patients. He mentions "imprisoned by death," "carpe diem," "carpe mortem," "life and
death transformed," "silenced by death," and "waiting for death." Levels of death anxiety affect how
end-of-life patients function in their daily lives (Tong, 2016). For example, low death anxiety often
results from "counterfactuals," which is denying incoming death (Gilbar & Hevroni, 2007). This poster
will explore these different types of coping styles and reflect on the different ways psychologists study
end-of-life patients.
Poster Presentation Number: P41
Recognition and Management of Oncologic Emergencies: An Analysis of
Current Research
Kristin Drechsel, Jadin Heidrich, Lauren Lee, Erin Mackenthun
According to the University of Minnesota, there are more than 350,000 survivors of childhood cancer
and adolescent cancer in the U.S.. Advances in technology, knowledge and research have led to the
increasing survival rate among this population. A big factor that has lead to many great outcomes with
pediatric oncology comes from the recognition and management of oncological emergencies. Nurses
play a vital role in preventing, recognizing, and treating the emergencies that are associated with
pediatric oncology. Septic shock due to infection continues to be a major cause of death in this
population and delays in the initiation of antibiotic therapy have been associated with decreased
survival. A literature review of the research was conducted to examine the variables common in
oncologic emergencies, including fevers and infection, and how to prevent septic shock and death
among pediatric oncology patients. We examined the barriers to timely antibiotic administration as well
as strategies to improve the time from clinic or emergency department admission to antibiotic
administration from a nursing standpoint.
Poster Presentation Number: P42
Assessing the Need for Special/Medical Diets in the Fargo-Moorhead
Community Food Pantries
Noah Taylor, Rachel Kmett, Cody Rahman, LeAnn Flanigan, Kevin Lee
Our objective was to assess the needs for appropriate foods for special/medical diets in the food
pantries of the Fargo/Moorhead community. During the week of February 13 to February 17, 2017 we
administered anonymous surveys to 89 clients (48 at the Emergency Food Pantry and 41 at the Dorothy
Day Food Pantry) who voluntarily agreed to participate. The survey was intended to assess what types
of special/medical diets are present among clients, the clients understanding of the diets, and if the
accommodations provided by the food pantries is adequate. 28% of households responded that they had
one or more people who required a special/medical diet. Of the 26 responders with a medical/special
diet, over 50% indicated they had diabetes and/or high blood pressure. 59% of clients surveyed
reported they understood the needs that the special diet entailed, while 10% reported not understanding.
Only 43% of clients agreed that the food pantries provided enough of the foods required for their diets.
The top three special/medical diets indicated by several clients were chronic diseases such as diabetes,
high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, which are potentially preventable through a healthy diet and
physical activity. While a firm conclusion cannot be drawn, the data seems to suggest the provision of
foods for special/medical diets by food pantries could possibly have a beneficial effect on the
conditions and diet quality of the clients.
Poster Presentation Number: P43
Investigating the Role of VTCN1's Ig-like Domains in Treg Induction
Hunter Huff Towle
The inevitable progression of Type 1 diabetes (T1D) involves the destruction of insulin-producing beta
cells, located in the pancreas, by autoreactive T cells. Such beta cell destruction and the accompanying
loss of endogenous insulin leaves T1D patients reliant on the lifelong use of exogenous insulin
injections. A major issue in diagnosis of T1D is that the disease progresses "silently."• That is, up to
90 percent of functional beta cells have already been destroyed by the time of diagnosis. Consequently,
there is a great need for early biomarkers of T1D and one protein in particular, V-set domaincontaining T cell activation inhibitor-1 (VTCN1), shows promise. VTCN1 is a negative co-stimulatory
molecule expressed on the surface of antigen presenting cells. Due to its negative co-stimulatory
function, binding of VTCN1 to its cognate receptor(s) on T cells provides a crucial balance between
abnormal T cell activation and anergy. One finding regarding VTCN1's negative co-stimulation is its
ability to increase and support Tregs, which prevent autoimmunity through the suppression of effector
T cells. A question that still remains, however, is whether the new Tregs arise by induction from a
naïve state or proliferation from existing Treg populations. To explore this, my lab studied the domainspecific effects of VTCN1's two Ig-like domains, IgV and IgC, on T regulatory cell (Tregs: CD4+,
CD25+ FOXP3+ T cells) induction and cytokine production.
Poster Presentation Number: P44
Literature's Reflection on the African American Struggle
Abby Kruse
Through a political lens, this project covers the similarities between the Civil War and the Civil Rights
movement as highlighted by the characters within the short story "An Occurrence at Owl Creek
Bridge" by Ambrose Bierce and an original adaptation of the story in the historical context of the
1960s. Highlighting the literary aspects of realism and postmodernism, the essay will also show the
similarities of the literary style between the two periods as well as the similarities of the political
movements regarding African American advancement in America. The project is researched to display
the similarities and also the progression of the political situation of African Americans across time.
Through extensive research, a synthesis of sources will be used to support the claim that Bierce's short
story is best to be adapted to the 1950-60s due to the racial issues surrounding the time.
Poster Presentation Number: P45
Minnesota Nice or Minnesota Ice?: Perceptions and Experiences from
Native and Non-native Minnesotans
Ciara White, Rachel Dieter, Karissa Chouinard
This research study was designed with the purpose of examining the various perceptions people have
about the concept of Minnesota Nice, and how these perceptions differ based upon where a person
grows up, being either in Minnesota or out of the state. A qualitative method was used to collect data
for this study where 12 students, 4 male and 8 female, from Concordia College in Moorhead,
Minnesota, were selected for an interview with one of the researchers. Half of the interviewees were
native Minnesotans and the other half were not native to Minnesota. These students were recruited
based on where they are from and their willingness to share their thoughts and ideas clearly and
concisely. The participants were asked a series of questions in an interview format consisting of similar
questions for both groups, but the questions asked to the non-native participants had a more
comparative aspect to them. The interviews were recorded and then transcribed to be analyzed for
common themes commented on by the participants about Minnesotan culture and communication in
order to determine if the concept of "Minnesota Nice" holds true.
Poster Presentation Number: P46
Needs in Local Food Pantries: Cooking Equipment and Skills
Julia Kohler, Joseph Hendrickson, Luis Martinez, Sara Baumann
Lack of cooking skills and equipment tends to be a concern overlooked when assessing needs of food
pantry clients. Clients were surveyed (n=89) at both the Dorothy Day Food Pantry in Moorhead, MN
and the Emergency Food Pantry in Fargo, ND, to determine if this concern limited clients when
cooking and preparing food. A survey was conducted including questions about the clients'
perspectives on cooking along with what types of equipment they are in need of or want to properly
make the food they receive. In general, clients who responded to the survey indicated that they enjoyed
cooking and were able to prepare foods received at the food pantry: 86.3% of the respondents reported
that they liked to cook and 82.7% agreed or strongly agreed that they knew how to prepare the food
given to them. Equipment that is most desired by the clients, in descending order, include additional
pots & pans, a crock pot, microwave, and cooking utensils. In addition, clients showed interest in
learning new recipes, baking skills, and how to prepare raw meat. In finding that there was a strong
majority of clients who enjoyed cooking already but lacked certain equipment, direction, and skills, the
results call for addressing these specific needs. Availability of handouts regarding food-specific
directions (e.g., raw meat preparation, baking) and cookbooks could be increased. Food equipment
drives would encourage community members to donate clean, usable items to pantries for client use.
Poster Presentation Number: P47
Cultural Surprises and Adjustment Experienced by International Students
and New Americans
Wil Schafer, Troy Bialka, Allison Chudy, Kennedy Erickson, Sonja Flancher, Dylan Harcey, Felicien
Gubandja, Michael Heitzman, Phillip Jansen, Andrew Lindor, Jamie Mentzer, Andie Palagi, Joshua
Prichard, Jacob Probst, Abby Ring, Barret Salberg, Kristin Traiser, Gregory Tucker
Given the volume of immigration to the U.S. since the 1970s and the attention to immigration policy in
the 2016 Presidential election campaigns, mutual understanding and respect between “old” Americans
and “new” Americans is essential. Sociologists and anthropologists have studied the experiences of
immigrants to the U.S. since the late 19th century. For ongoing understanding, it is necessary to revisit
these issues in contemporary and local contexts. Our study focused on experiences of international
students and New Americans in the Upper Midwest region. Eighteen students in Cultural
Anthropology (SOC217) each interviewed someone in the Upper Midwest region who is originally
from another country with the following research questions in mind: What do you find most surprising
about living, studying, or working in the Upper Midwest and what adjustments have you had to make?
Interviewees came from different countries on five continents – Asia, Africa, Europe, South and North
America. Our class identified three common themes of special interest: misconceptions about what the
U.S. was like before arrival; differences in family relations, especially between younger and older
members; differences in the U.S. education system that required significant adjustment.
Poster Presentation Number: P48
Health at Every Size
Hannah Steffen, Ally Jones
According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report published in 2015, 37.7% of adults
and 17% of children are considered to be obese as evidenced by body mass index. Efforts of traditional
weight loss such as eating fewer calories, exercising more frequently, and modifying unhealthy
behaviors cannot be negated; as there is a plethora of research to show that healthy eating behaviors
and exercise are effective in both weight loss and weight management. While obesity rates are not
drastically increasing, traditional weight loss efforts are not making an apparent impact in decreasing
numbers as more than 90% of weight losers tend to regain the weight lost. In accordance with the
Health at Every Size (HAES) movement, it has been suggested that shifting from a weight-focused
paradigm to one centered on holistic health may be the extra push that is needed in order to see the
obesity trend decrease. Research shows that by redirecting this focus from numbers to health, weight
loss becomes a side effect of living out a positive mindset and lifestyle.
Poster Presentation Number: P49
DASHing Towards a Healthy Lifestyle
Michaela Koenig
DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. The DASH diet was first implemented for
hypertension by focusing on lowering the consumption of sodium and increasing the intake of
potassium. According to the American Heart Association, one out of every three adults over age 20 has
high blood pressure and nearly 20 percent do not even know they have it. The DASH diet is a healthy
approach to lowering the risk of chronic disease and simple to implement into daily living. Originally
developed for hypertension, the DASH diet has been recently shown to have a positive impact on
kidney disease due to its high potassium, protein, and phosphorus intake. Adequate nutrition is a major
component of the DASH diet as well as smart choices to maintain an active lifestyle. A well-planned
DASH diet containing low-fat dairy, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, nuts, seeds, and
legumes can provide the proper nourishment to combat hypertension and other chronic diseases and
improve overall health.
Poster Presentation Number: P50
Core Cardiac Transcription Factors GATA4, NKX2.5, and TBX5 Involved
in HLHS Pathogenesis
Alexandra Thom, Jessica Shamdas
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) is a congenital heart defect that occurs in 2.6/10,000 U.S.
births. Underdevelopment of the left ventricle is the most severe symptom presented in HLHS patients.
Although the cause is unknown, we hypothesize that pathogenesis of this disease has genetic origins.
Specifically, cardiac transcription factors involved in early heart development may undergo mutations,
which result in phenotypes associated with HLHS. Transcription factors GATA4, NKX2.5, and TBX5
work in conjunction to activate the NPPA gene, which is necessary for cardiac development. Future
experimental research manipulating cardiomyocyte genes would provide a better understanding of
HLHS pathogenesis.
Poster Presentation Number: P51
Increasing Access to Fruits and Vegetables: A Study of Nutritional
Adequacy Among Food Pantries in the F/M Area
Anna Herkenhoff, Katherine Christopherson, James Jamison, Kimberly Schaible, Cole Vlasak
In order to assess the nutritional efficacy of local food pantries, 89 surveys were distributed to patrons
of two local food pantries. Patrons were surveyed on age, gender, education level, ethnicity, and other
demographic variables as well as access to an appropriate variety of foods to meet nutritional adequacy.
Over half did not meet the recommended intake of fruits (89%) and vegetables (60.8%) although the
majority (86.2%), if given the option, would consume more fruits and vegetables. However, over half
of the clients who visited the food pantry said that the pantry provided them with access to an adequate
amount of fruits and vegetables, so it can be concluded that accessibility at the food pantry is not a
factor. This phenomenon may be connected to food preferences and/or the fact that most food pantry
patrons do not visit on a regular basis. A possible offset to this problem could be to expand the "daily
bread" section at local food pantries to include fruits and vegetables so patrons can have increased
access to fruits and vegetables.
Poster Presentation Number: P52
Pediatric Radiation Exposure: Sources and Protection
Cody Bekkerus, Paige Deckert, Kendal Haverland, Lauren Otto, Anna Wood
Radiation is the emission of energy as electromagnetic waves or as moving subatomic particles,
especially high-energy particles that cause ionization. External sources of radiation include: X-ray
scans, Computerized Tomography (CT) scans, Meckel's scans, Nuclear Medicine, and Intravenous
Pyelogram (IVP) scans. Internal sources can come from seeds or capsules that are implanted near a
cancerous tumor. Long-term effects of radiation in pediatric populations includes: cancer, particularly
leukemia and myeloma, as well as aplastic anemia. A literature review was conducted using CINAHL
and PubMed databases. Key words used included "pediatric radiation" and "pediatric radiation
exposure". Results showed very limited to no research articles on nursing pediatric radiation exposure
and protection.
Poster Presentation Number: P53
Women on the Front Lines Against ISIS
Jacqueline Day, Allison Ross
This presentation will explore the question of why women are on the front lines, and how can they
make a difference on the war against ISIS. The presentation argues that the power of women's spirit,
enlisted through either words or weapons, has the potential to stop the terrorist group ISIS. Women are
taking revenge on ISIS for the mistreatment of their people, and the mass genocide against them.
Women will put a stop to ISIS through their narrative about the atrocities women have faced at the
hands of ISIS. This presentation argues that the most important thing a woman from on any
background can do is share her testimony. Due to the rise in social media platforms and the attention of
the mass media, women have a shot at stopping ISIS. The presentation gives an in-depth look at several
women fighting on the front lines today. Some will fight with weapons, others will fight with words.
Either way, women are the ones that will help end ISIS.
Poster Presentation Number: P54
Prevention of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Sudan
Bethany Freeland, Makayla Van Derostyne
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is defined as all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the
external female genitalia for non-therapeutic reasons. Sudan is a country in Northeastern Africa that
has a high FGM prevalence and also practices the most severe forms of FGM. Many preventative
measures are being taken in Sudan to reduce the prevalence of FGM and eradicate the practice.
However, factors such as religion, education, and culture contribute to FGM's deep roots in the
Sudanese culture. Eradication of the FGM has to focus on changing the mindset of the Sudanese people
regarding the practice.
Poster Presentation Number: P55
α-Ketoglutarate Inhibition of Cytoplasmic Glutamate Dehydrogenase from
Escherichia coli
Kate Kvidera
This experiment examined the kinetics of E. coli Glutamate Dehydrogenase in the presence of varying
concentrations of NADP+ and α-ketoglutarate. It found that α-ketoglutarate is a competitive inhibitor of
this reaction in the direction of oxidative deamination. The reaction was found to run better at pH 9.00.
There was a decrease in the Vmax that was correlated to the concentration of α-ketoglutarate.
Poster Presentation Number: P56
Genes Encoding Antibacterial Defense Mechanisms in Neisseria
Isabella Stromberg, Erika Grinde, Kailey Lamb
Neisseria is a gram-negative bacterial genus containing pathogenic and nonpathogenic species. N.
meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae are pathogens that cause meningitis and gonorrhoea, respectively.
Several non-pathogenic Neisseria species are common members of the human microbiome where they
interact with many other bacterial species. Due to competition within the microbiome, it is vital for
bacteria to possess defense mechanisms. Preliminary evidence suggests some Neisseria species display
antimicrobial activity; however, the mechanism of this antimicrobial activity is unknown. One way
bacteria exhibit antimicrobial activity is through the production of antibacterial proteins. The goal of
this research project was to search for the presence of known genes associated with bacterial defense
mechanisms in a broad range of Neisseria species. Known categories of antibacterial proteins include:
(1) contact-dependent, (2) contact-independent, and (3) the recently discovered protein encoded by
abp1. The bamA gene encodes the receptor associated with the contact dependent inhibition (CDI)
system of E. coli, whereas mutR and mutA are genes encoding contact-independent proteins produced
by S. mutans. N. subflava has been found to contain abp1, a gene with an unknown mechanism of
antimicrobial activity. Using the NCBI database, BLAST searches were conducted for bamA, mutR,
mutA, and abp1 in 25 Neisseria species. The mutR and mutA genes were not found in any Neisseria;
however, bamA was present in 7 species, and abp1 in 15 species. These results provide insight into
possible defense mechanisms Neisseria may use against other bacterial species within the human
microbiome.
Poster Presentation Number: P57
Homology of Known Pigment Producing Pathways with Neisseria
Coulton Dangerfield, Madeline Gemuenden, Erin Pennington, Kevin Wolfe
Neisseria is a bacterial genus composed of pathogenic and nonpathogenic species which mainly occupy
mucosal surfaces. The nonpathogenic species are commonly found in the human microbiome. Some
Neisseria species produce a yellow pigment under certain conditions. There is little known regarding
pigment function in Neisseria, but in other bacteria pigments provide various benefits including
antimicrobial activity, antioxidant function, and protection from extreme temperatures. The gene
pathway that encodes yellow pigment production in Neisseria has yet to be identified. In our research,
we attempt to identify this unknown pathway by using bioinformatics to compare the sequences of
known genes that encode yellow pigment production in other organisms with whole genome sequences
of 25 species of Neisseria. We obtained the known query sequences from UniPROT, then used BLAST
to compare the sequences with Neisseria genomes in PubMLST and NCBI. The genes we researched
included the crtMNPQO pathway of Staphylococcus aureus, the crtB gene of Rhodobacter capsulatus,
cpkC of Streptomyces coelicolor, and aroE of Xanthomonas oryzae. Our searches to date found
significant homology between 18 of 25 Neisseria species for the crtM gene and 0 of 25 for crtNPQO,
12 of 25 for crtB, 13 of 25 for cpkC, and 11 of 25 for aroE. Ongoing research will include investigating
the nature of these similarities. Identifying pigment genes in Neisseria might give insight into the type
of pigment Neisseria produces and its functions.
Poster Presentation Number: P58
α-Ketoglutarate Product Inhibition of Glutamate Dehydrogenase
Evan Camrud, William Asp
Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), an enzyme found in all living organisms, catalyzes the chemical
reaction of L-glutamate to α-ketoglutarate and NH3+, using NADP+ as a coenzyme. GDH exists in the
mitochondrial matrix and participates in the Kreb's cycle, while in prokaryotes (obviously lacking a
mitochondria) the enzyme is free in the cytosol. A small number of bacteria, including many E. coli
subspecies, can also utilize this enzyme to fix nitrogen under high ammonia conditions, but the reverse
reaction is of course more common. The importance of this reaction in biological systems prompts the
depth of research it receives. In our research, we observe the product inhibition effect of αketoglutarate on GDH, and analyze the data with a Michaelis-Menten model.
Poster Presentation Number: P59
Ethnography in Ecuador
Taylor Strelow
The purpose of this study was to conduct ethnographic research on a micro-culture to understand
diversity in the world. I took this experience outside of the Fargo-Moorhead community by completing
the ethnographic research while on a mid-semester trip to Ecuador. While in Ecuador, I spent a week
at La Casa de Fe, or The House of Faith, a home for abandoned, orphaned, and special needs children.
During the experience, my research objectives were to observe and interact with a micro-culture
completely different than one I had ever experienced. At La Casa de Fe, I did so by volunteering and
interacting with the children, staff, and other volunteers who were currently residing or working there.
During my experience, I encountered a sense of faith and family that was fostered and encouraged by
those at La Casa de Fe. This theme that seemed so present there became my hypothesis, and I used
observation, interaction, interviews, and research to explain and prove this. In my work, I explain how
the children, staff, and volunteers each play an integral part in forming this environment of family and
faith, and how each of these groups is affected in return. This work, now more than ever, seems
relevant to me as we encounter a world where distrust, judgment, and discrimination exist against those
who merely seem different than ourselves. My ethnographic work in Ecuador taught me to look
beyond differences and to fully appreciate people for who they are, regardless of race, ethnicity, or
disability.
Poster Presentation Number: P60
Curandero or Doctor: An Exploration of Medicines in Spanish-Speaking
Countries
Sarah Mattison
Non-English speaking immigrants face language barriers when coming to the United States, even in
health care settings. It is important that interpreters are available to assist in these situations, but it is
even more important that these interpreters are aware of cultural differences from country to country. In
some Spanish-speaking countries, it is common to use alternative medicine in practice instead of
traditional medicines. Instead of going to the doctor's office or to the drug store to buy over-the-counter
medications when one is sick in the United States, some people choose to go to a store called a botánica
where they can buy herbs, roots, and powders to help cure them from various ailments and consult a
curandero, or a folk healer, about usage of medicinal herbs and plants. Fourteen students interviewed
people who at one time lived in Hispanic countries or currently reside there. The interviews covered
many topics, including where they are from, where their parents are from, various important cultural
aspects specific to their country, and finally the medical system in their country and the use of
traditional and alternative medicines. From these interviews, we discovered that every country views
alternative medicines differently.
Poster Presentation Number: P61
Surgical Management and Nursing Considerations in the Treatment of
Gastroschisis
Megan Erkens, Adam Lacher, Megan Lindquist, Lauren Orson
Gastroschisis is a serious congenital defect in which the intestines protrude through an opening in the
abdominal wall. It requires surgical repair soon after birth and is associated with an increased risk for
medical complications and mortality during infancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
estimates that about 1,871 babies are born each year in the United States with gastroschisis. A literature
review of the most current nursing research was undertaken to understand this diagnosis and to reveal
nursing trends of diagnosis and treatment.
Poster Presentation Number: P62
Record Keeping in the Digital Age
Allison Cassell
Record keeping has been transformed by the technological age. Practices that were once limited to
pencil and paper can now be digitized and collected online. Cultural heritage organizations across the
globe face the struggle of finding the best databases to manage collections. The Concordia College
Archives has faced this challenge as well. In order to find the best suited content management system
(CMS) for its collection, this study analyzed four different systems against nine criteria to determine
which CMS was best suited to meet needs. An in-depth analysis of CONTENTdm, PastPerfect,
CollectiveAccess, and Omeka against criteria such as cost effectiveness and user accessibility,
demonstrated that CONTENTdm was best suited for Concordia's needs. The second part of this project,
was to utilize the system to inventory and update the Concordia College Art Collection and establish
best practices for collection maintenance.
Poster Presentation Number: P63
Hyperinsulinemia: Pancreatic Cancer Catalyst?
Andrew Dosch, Chris Wiger, Dezmond Ward
Numerous scientific studies have suggested a link between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), pancreatic
cancer, and obesity, as they are commonly diagnosed together. However, a definitive mechanism by
which these diseases are connected has yet to be discovered. Hyperinsulinemia, a manifestation of both
obesity and T2DM, is at its most severe just before the onset of T2DM. Insulin is known to trigger
mitotic pathways regulated by proteins which are commonly mutated in pancreatic carcinomas. We
believe that this influx of insulin increases the likelihood that insulin-mediated proliferative pathways
will be triggered, leading to a higher risk of cancer formation. We conducted a literature search and
analyzed existing research. Based on this analysis, we propose that the initial overexpression of plasma
insulin in diabetic and obese individuals catalyzes pancreatic cancer proliferation through the MAPK
signaling pathway via mutated ras proteins in most carcinomas. Due to the interconnectedness of type 2
diabetes, pancreatic cancer, and obesity, this hypothesis could be a bridge to future research that may
lead to improved treatments or cures for each of these diseases.
Poster Presentation Number P64 - No poster.
Poster Presentation Number: P65
"I'm with Her": Gender and Politics in Facebook Posts
Ali Froslie, Sara Funkhouser, Lexi Scanlon
"I'm with her." This was a phrase that floated through both the real and digital worlds during the 2016
United States Presidential election. For the first time in United States history, the country saw an
election with a male and female candidate running against each other. With this gender divide in the
political sphere, the researchers were interested to see if this would impact the way in which men and
women posted about politics on Facebook. It was predicted that because politics is in the social sphere
of men in real life, that this trend would continue to the social media realm as well. In order to reach
conclusions about how men and women post about politics on Facebook, the researchers created a
content analysis to research different aspects of random, publicly available Facebook profiles. Areas of
profile that were coded included: age of the poster, who the post was about, how many males and
females commented and responded respectively, and whether the post included humor. The researchers
found that in the weeks of November 1st-15th, women posted more about politics on Facebook than
male users, breaking down the norm that politics was considered to be in the social sphere of men.
Poster Presentation Number: P66
Concordia College to Become a "Bee Campus USA"
Katie Black, Kaya Baker, Danielle Braund, Jessica Watson
The dependence on pollinators for food production and agriculture is astoundingly high, with roughly
90% of plants in need of assisted pollination. The habitat that pollinators need in order to thrive is used
in ways that benefit humans, but hinder pollinators. Public understanding of the importance of
pollinators is crucial to their survival, as is creating urban spaces that promote pollinators' well-being.
Our interdisciplinary research team is seeking to promote the native pollinator populations in the F/M
area by proposing that Concordia College becomes a "Bee Campus USA" organization. Therefore, this
research will discuss the criteria associated with becoming a bee-campus: developing pollinatorfriendly habitat, offering pollinator-focused curriculum, and educating the community on the
importance of maintaining the biodiversity of pollinators. Becoming a "Bee Campus USA" would help
to increase the biodiversity of local plants in the Fargo-Moorhead community, integrate sustainability
into our campus, and increase opportunities to improve our local food system.
Poster Presentation Number: P67
Mapping Concordia College's Trees Using ArcGIS
Jessica Watson
Ersi Community Maps program is a collaboration by the ArcGIS world-wide community to create a
multi-scale map of the world. This includes data from sources such as cities, countries, and college
campuses. Concordia College has been working to be included in the Community map programs and
has recently completed one of the last steps, mapping the trees on our campus. The trees were mapped
using the ArcGIS Collector program, ArcGIS Desktop and ArcGIS online. This map will be used for
the ongoing squirrel telemetry research on campus, and will be available for others to use, including
facilities. Currently data on tree species and size has been collected but other tree information can be
added in the future. This map also illustrates the other potential uses of ArcGIS for collecting and
mapping data for classes and research projects.
Poster Presentation Number: P68
Recent Occurrences of the Plains Pocket Mouse (Perognathus flavescens) in
Northwestern Minnesota
Chloe Whitten, Danielle Braund, Jessica Watson, Grant Vagle
Trapping of remnant and restored prairies in northwestern Minnesota has provided data on presence
and population levels of small mammals that inhabit those prairies. Among the species caught over a
12 year span (2004-2016) was Perognathus flavescens. The species reaches its northern and eastern
range limit in Minnesota. We have caught a total of nine individuals at sites in Clay and Norman
Counties. In Clay County, one site was a remnant prairie and the other site was a restored prairie. The
Norman County site is a remnant prairie. The total number of sightings has remained low through the
years of trapping. Throughout 28,229 trap nights, only nine individuals have been caught. Additional
sampling and continued vigilance is recommended in order to determine if the species should be one of
conservation concern.
Poster Presentation Number: P69
Identification of Peromyscus leucopus and P. maniculatus in Minnesota
Habitats: Comparing Molecular Analysis of Salivary Amylase to Body
Morphology Predictions
Ann Marie O'Connell, Gift Ben-Bernard
White-footed (Peromyscus leucopus) and deer mice (P. maniculatus) are two of the most abundant
small mammals in North America and are identified as significant seed dispersers, predators of pest
insects, prey items of avian and mammalian predators, and disease vectors and reservoirs. These two
species are extremely difficult to tell apart in the field. Morphological measurements, typically used for
identification, are inconsistent. Reliable identification is possible through different allozymes for
salivary amylase. We collected saliva and used cellulose acetate electrophoresis for identification from
a variety of sites throughout northwestern Minnesota between 2004 and 2016. We tested 940
Peromyscus saliva samples from a variety of habitats and compared the amylase results with
morphological data. Our objective was to definitively identify Peromyscus to species in a region with
high habitat overlap and to examine how well morphological predictors compared to the amylase
identification. Previous to 2014, we found that 33% of the captured mice could not be identified by
measurements because of extensive overlap. Additionally, we found 15-25% of identifications based on
morphology were incorrect. In sum, the cumulative error when trapping Peromyscus results in up to
48% of the mice we captured being unidentifiable or incorrectly assigned to species based on the body
identifiers. Currently we are continuing to adjust our analyzing techniques to more efficiently analyze
Peromyscus salvia samples from 2014-2016. There is a trend that the 2016 Minnesota prairie
Peromyscus saliva samples are determined to be almost exclusively P. maniculatus, but further analysis
is required.
Poster Presentation Number: P70
Comparison of Bird Communities on Restored and Remnant Prairies in
Northwestern Minnesota
Ben Stubbs
Prairie habitats have been reduced to approximately 1% of their pre-settlement area. As a result many
efforts have been made to reclaim or restore this imperiled habitat. Little data is available on the
response of the avian community to these restoration efforts, especially in northwestern Minnesota.
During June and July 2016 we examined bird communities on remnant and restored prairies in
northwestern Minnesota. We sampled a total of four sites, two restored and two remnant. At each site
we walked a 150-m transect and recorded birds heard and seen within a detectable distance in the
habitat. During the first two sampling sessions only birds present were recorded, but during sessions
three through nine we also recorded the number of individual birds. Although we had similar numbers
of species overall at both restored and remnant sites, we had more bird species associated with prairies
at remnant sites. The bird community also seemed to be influenced by surrounding areas as one of the
restored sites was surrounded by additional remnant prairie and showed greater diversity of prairie
species as compared to the other, more isolated restored site. We recommend further research to
examine the effectiveness of restoration on bird communities, particularly in reference to additional
factors, such as the influence of surrounding habitats, age of restored prairie, and plant species
composition.
Poster Presentation Number: P71
Characteristics of Cone Caches by American Red Squirrels on Concordia
College Campus
Jenna Stilwell, Glory Kom, Maddie Howard, Mackenzie Wild
We examined the cone collecting behaviors of American Red Squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) on
the Concordia College campus. Red squirrels are solitary, territorial, and known to conduct larder
hoarding and create one or more food caches that are actively defended. Previous observations of
squirrel foraging, cone collecting, and the storage of cones under, or in campus trees lead us to ask
questions about the characteristics of the cones stored in these caches. We wanted to see if there were
certain sizes or masses of cones that were more likely to be stored. Random samples of cones were
collected from each of the three caches chosen around campus. Cones were organized into categories
based on weight and size. They were then dyed by size class, and placed back into their piles for further
observations. The results of the study indicate that campus squirrels tended to collect middle weightclass cones most frequently, as they are easy to transport and contain enough seeds to make the effort
of storing them worth the effort. Future studies would aim to investigate the sizes of cones that are
available to squirrels on campus and compare them to the cones that are selected for storage.
Poster Presentation Number: P72
Fruiting Body Preference of Trees
Peter Bueide, Kevin Marzolf, Brandon Wayne
Fungi often share in mutualistic relationships with tree species. A particularly important mutualistic
relationship lies between trees and the mycorrhizal fungi that interact with their root structures. This
interaction is crucial to tree and forest health. At Long Lake, the forest directly west of the field station
contains primarily aspen and oak species. Within the western forest, the east contains primarily aspen
species while the west contains primarily oak. The purpose of the experiment was to determine which
tree species has a stronger mutualistic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi. The hypothesis tested was
that oak trees were more likely to have fruiting bodies near their base associated with mycorrhizal
fungi. To test which species were more likely to contain mycorrhizal fungi, trees were observed at the
base within a 1m radius for fruiting bodies along four separate 30m transects. On average, aspen
species have more fruiting bodies near their base than oak species, however, this trend was not
conclusively significant (p=0.082). Understanding the relationship between trees and mycorrhizal fungi
could be a beneficial tool in forest rehabilitation as well as in monitoring ecosystem health.
Poster Presentation Number: P73
Red River Market: A Social Hub in a Revitalized Downtown
Brady Jensen
Recently, Moorhead has started the initiative to revive its once-great downtown. This is very similar to
a move made by Fargo in the year 2000. Now, Fargo's downtown is a blossoming center of nightlife,
boutiques, and restaurants. The greatest evidence of this change is the Red River Market, a local
farmers' market that acts as a social hub on Saturday mornings between July and October. In order to
learn more about the Red River Market, I visited it on three separate occasions and logged a total of
eight hours there. During my time there, I collected notes in a field journal, writing down any
behavioral patterns that I could observe. From there, I deducted a bit about the social aspect of the
market and followed up my information with interviews of four market participants. This research was
then supplemented by the works of others who had already conducted similar studies at various other
farmers' markets across the nation. Finally, I gathered information on the history of Fargo's downtown,
finding that it has only recently become the gem it is now. This landed me at the conclusion that the
people of the Red River Market are a highly social group whose interactions stem from the casual
atmosphere and common purposes shared by its people, but it is also evidence of a wider change in
Fargo's revitalized downtown area.
Poster Presentation Number: P74
Suicide in Prisons: An Analysis of Paula Meehan's Cell and the American
Comedy Series Orange Is the New Black
Samantha Peka
The inspiration for this project emerged from an interest in women's incarceration experiences and the
factors that can lead a female prisoner to commit suicide. The four main factors that can contribute to a
female prisoner's suicide are prison conditions, mental illnesses, bullying, and drug abuse. Separately,
these factors may be less likely to motivate a female prisoner to commit suicide; however, when
combined, female prisoners often do not know how to deal with the stressful environment and end up
committing suicide. Furthermore, the conditions that female prisoners must live through influence their
coping mechanisms which are unique to their gender. Paula Meehan's play Cell, and the American
comedy series Orange Is the New Black, support current research that conditions within prisons, mental
illnesses, drug abuse, and bullying are the main factors which can contribute to the suicide of female
prisoners.
Poster Presentation Number: P75
Recognizing White Male Privilege: Key to the Anti-Racist Crusade
Sean Zimny
The implications of my research pertain to the anti-racist crusade and the campaign towards racial
equality, and equality of all kinds. The question that arose, for me, was: "How can a privileged white
male, who recognizes his social privilege, best use this privilege effectively to support the struggle for
racial inequality?" To combat racism in our society today, white males like myself, who have the
utmost, predominant privilege in our culture, must first recognize and utilize our privilege in the
struggle against racial inequality and oppression. To recognize such privilege, a white male must
educate himself about the concept of race, specifically the production of race as a social construct and
not a biological imperative, and utilize this education to provide support in the anti-racist campaign,
and to provide that support as an equal, not as a superior or "helper" in a falsely perceived hierarchical,
invisible system. In my research, I used a varying array of sources from scholarly articles, doctoral
theses, and books on white privilege, to scholarly works on recognizing white privilege along with
privilege of other kinds, such as homosexuality. My research contends that recognizing one's privilege
is an essential aspect of reaching equality in our anti-racist campaign.
Poster Presentation Number: P76
Lifting the Veil of Silence: The Evolution of Silence and Memory in PostHolocaust Norway
Kaitlin Preusser
For more than twenty years after War II ended, Norway's Holocaust memory was swept under a veil of
silence internally and internationally. As the only Scandinavian country involved in the implementation
of the Final Solution, Norwegians not only fostered a strong resistance force that helped almost one
thousand Norwegian Jews escape to Sweden, but they also abetted a group of Nazi sympathizers,
including members of the police and local government, who aided in the deportation of seven hundred
and seventy-two Norwegian Jews. Conflicted by their role in the war as both perpetrator and victim,
many Norwegians and Norwegian Jewish survivors felt inclined to leave their troubling past
experiences behind, untouched and unspoken. Norwegian Jews especially struggled to confront their
identity after the war as either Holocaust survivors or refugees and also as Norwegians due to the
country's long history of anti-Semitism and constitutional ban on Jewish immigration. However,
through recent publications of Norwegian Jewish Holocaust narratives, improved education curriculum,
construction of museums and monuments, and the acknowledgement of Holocaust remembrance days,
Norway been able to better accept its past and assert its present-day position as a leader in world peace,
human rights, and humanitarian aid. The research for this project explored memoirs of Norwegian
Jews, personal interviews with current Norwegian university students, the politics of individual and
collective memory, and Norway's history of xenophobia.
Poster Presentation Number: P77
Between YOLO and FOMO: Millennials and Memory
Shelby Reidle, Emily Laaveg, Benjamin Dyrhaug, Clark Brown
In January of 2017, Shahak Shapira's Yolocaust project highlighted the dichotomy between millennial
culture and Holocaust remembrance. There is a great disconnect between the millennial generation and
the Holocaust, and this distance increases as the survivor generation dies out. Holocaust representation
in the public sphere, particularly in artistic medias, has fostered the proliferation of narratives and
multiple interpretations of the Holocaust by millennials. This project is an attempt to highlight the
inherent tension between social media culture, that is based on capturing sensational and exciting
moments, against a memory culture rooted in catastrophe.
Poster Presentation Number: P78
Lichen Density on Trees of Different Species and Habitats
Breann Adamek, Nadia Toumeh, Sabrina DeBlaere, Bailey Ebert
Lichen, a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae, can be an indicator of ecosystem health and
change. Lichen is also an important photoautotroph that contributes to nutrient cycling within
ecosystems. Our experiment was conducted at Concordia College's Long Lake field station in Detroit
Lakes, MN. Its purpose was to compare the lichen density on Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) and
Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) trees found in forested and open areas. We hypothesized that Bur
Oak trees found in open areas will have a higher lichen density than Green Ash trees found in the open
areas near Long Lake. Mean percent coverage of lichen on trees was measured for all four cardinal
directions through the use of the Braun-Blanquet Method. This method consisted of using a 100 cm2
quadrant on the tree trunk, placed a meter above ground surface. The results of the experiment were
significant for tree species as well as the interaction of tree species and habitat, but were not significant
for habitat type alone. Our hypothesis was supported, though percent coverage was variable between
treatment types. Our data suggests that lichen may gravitate towards certain tree species and/or that a
specific combination of species and habitat type allows for maximum lichen growth. Further research is
needed in order to determine what tree species and habitat best support the growth of lichen.
Poster Presentation Number: P79
Species Survey of the Hell Creek Formation in the Northern United States
Breann Adamek, Sarah Curran
Over the last twenty-five years, Concordia College has provided the opportunity for research students
to participate in annual paleontology digs. The field work carried out by these students and their
advising professor involved the collection of fossil samples from the geological formation, Hell Creek.
This colossal formation stretches across multiple states in the Northern U.S. The goal of our research
was to provide a survey that displays the Hell Creek species quantitatively. The Hell Creek formation
research trips have focused on sample collection rather than data collection and analysis. Data
collection and analysis are less popular strategies in paleontology, making our research not only
unique, but also more challenging. Our survey of the area was made more difficult as the type of
research performed involved choosing quality specimens while leaving behind the substandards, i.e.
weathered or broken samples, which does not provide an entirely accurate species survey
representation of the area. Our second goal of this project was to form a better understanding of which
species occupied the area, through the identification of microfossils. Species surveys of this geologic
era are relevant as many observed species have modern day counterparts. In this way we can
comparatively study evolution, specifically of cold-blooded organisms, for the reference of future
research.
Poster Presentation Number: P80
Beyond the Mere Exposure Effect: How Does an Experiential Nutrition
Education Program Aid in the Healthful Diets of Children?
Angelica Anderson, Megan Matthews
There is a definite need to increase fruit and vegetable affinity and consumption in children and
adolescents. Obesity rates have risen twofold in children 2-5 and threefold in those 6-11 from 20092010 according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. An increase in fruit and vegetable
consumption could aid in reducing obesity and preventing other weight related issues due to their low
energy and high nutrient density. Our research exploration outlines the effectiveness of the Mere
Exposure Effect along with experiential nutrition education programs. After analyzing current and
relevant interventions, we conclude that although the Mere Exposure Effect has significant benefits, an
experiential nutrition education program offers young individuals a broader skill-set that will aid in
successful fruit and vegetable consumption in the future. Cooking lessons, parent involvement,
mealtime experience, and school nutrition programs were found to be important aspects in increasing
rates of fruit and vegetable consumption and preference.
Poster Presentation Number: P81
Flipping a Psychology Course: Student Perceptions and Test Score
Itohan Agbenin, Natalie Rivera
Flipping the classroom has become a widely used teaching pedagogy in recent years. The purpose of
the study was to appraise the effectiveness of this pedagogy. A total of 54 students, 54% female with an
average age of 19.49, enrolled in a flipped Educational psychology course over spring 2015 (27
students) and fall 2015 (27 students) were assessed. The majority of students in the sample were in
their sophomore year (68%). The perceptions of students in the flipped classes were assessed using the
College and University Classroom Environment Inventory (CUCEI) which measures several
dimensions of the classroom environment. The CUCEI data revealed that students perceived
Cohesiveness as the weakest dimension and Task Orientation as the strongest dimension of the flipped
classroom environment. In addition, the test scores and course evaluations of students in the flipped
classes were compared with those of 43 students enrolled in a traditional Educational Psychology class
taught in spring 2014. Results from data analyses showed that there was no significant difference in test
scores between students in the flipped class and those in the traditional class. However, students in the
flipped course gave higher ratings for the overall teaching of the course compared to those in the
traditional class. Additionally, students in the flipped class were significantly more likely to agree that
the teaching approach used contributed to their learning, stimulated their interest in the content, and
improved their ability to address problems and make informed decisions. Suggestions for making the
flip more effective are offered.
Poster Presentation Number: P82
Recognizing and Treating the Effects of Excessive Stress in Teenagers: A
Systematic Review of the Current Research
Emily Luckhardt, Cassandra Morlock, Amy Loftness, Cassandra Pollard, Ruby Lunzer
Stress is defined as, "A condition that is often characterized by symptoms of physical or emotional
tension. It is a reaction to a situation where a person feels threatened or anxious. Stress can be positive
or negative". The American Psychology Association reports that, "American teens report experiences
with stress that follow a similar pattern as adults", however, for this study, research is being limited to
studies focusing only on teenage specific stress. A systematic review of the literature published on the
topic of teenage stress research in the field of nursing was performed. Research data bases CINAL,
PubMed, and National Institution of Nursing Research were used to pioneer the search. The terms,
"Stress", "Teenage", and "Nursing" were used exclusively as search terms and were in the fashion of a
Boolean search. Different combinations of these terms were used along with refined search tools per
cites ability. Such tools included ability to search within specific dates and search articles which had
only nurses as authors. A date range of between 2013-2016 was determined. Websites of unknown
authenticity were automatically disqualified from this search. A team of five members each spent
roughly 2 hours searching for articles using the above search term, resulting in 10 hours of extensive
literature search. From each search, the number of articles published exclusively in the year 2013 were
recorded. This continued for all 4 years within the predetermined range. In addition to the number of
articles found within a year, key terms describing the topic of each article was recorded in order to
understand what large themes are predominating this field of research. In addition to literature review,
major nursing research institutions websites were assessed for information pertaining to research being
done about teenage stress. Websites were accessed by two members of the team and were assessed by
looking under their nursing department research page for insight to any work being done in relation to
teenage stress. Websites were determined both by professor recommendation and popular search in the
browser Google to determine modern and trending research on Teenage Stress. The number of articles
found which were published between 2013-2016 and were authored by nurses varied greatly between
search sites. The breakdown of articles found when using Boolean search, "Stress" AND "Teenage"
AND "Nursing" is inconsistent. PubMed search resulted in a total of 915 articles meanwhile CINAHL
resulted in a total of 25 articles. Through reviewing the articles, key words describing topics of those
articles was recorded. Consistent key words which were found were "Teen Pregnancy", "Adolescent
Parenting", "Parenting", "Smoking", "Violence", and "Parents with Cancer" among others. Alongside
the article search, six major institutions were included and few reported projects in this area. The major
research institutions which were assessed were: The University of Minnesota, Duke University,
University of North Caroline, John Hopkins, and none had research in the topic of interest. A search of
modern and trending research using Google resulted in the finding of nursing research occurring at two
institutions. The University of New York (NYU) and The University of Texas-Austin both have
articles published. NYU 2015 article entitled: "NYU Study Examines Top High School Students' Stress
and Coping Mechanisms". University of Texas- Austin 2014 article titled, "A systematic review of
interventions to reduce stress in adolescence."