Educational Excellence Week Symposium

April 19th–23rd, 2021

©Center for Educational Excellence, 2021 Tarleton State University Colleagues,

Welcome to the inaugural Educational Excellence week! As we embark on this week-long celebration of excellence at Tarleton, it is a time to reflect on how far we have come. The Center for Educational Excellence (CEE) was developed in July of 2020, amid a pandemic that challenged the processes of higher education around the globe. The CEE was developed in response to those challenges as an entity to support and develop faculty across the spectrum of the faculty role - in Teaching, Community Engagement and Service Learning, Leadership, Applied and Experiential Learning (including Study Abroad and Study Away), and Faculty and Student Research. The Center comprises a stellar team of faculty fellows, instructional designers, and staff who deeply care about supporting Tarleton’s plan to continue to grow and thrive. We put people first and strive to develop faculty and student scholars in ways that motivate, empower, connect, and celebrate them. With the development of the Center that consolidated faculty support, we have an opportunity to celebrate activities within each of the CEE’s pillars in tandem, culminating in our inaugural Educational Excellence week. I invite you to explore this program filled with presentations by more than 150 of our talented faculty, staff, and students. You may recognize some remnants of past events—the Tarleton Student Research and Creative Activities Symposium, the Excellence in Teaching Conference, and the Transformative Learning Symposium, which have now been incorporated into Educational Excellence week. We have added new presentation opportunities such as study abroad and much more. We will also host featured panels and informative workshops before we close out the week with the CEE highlights and awards ceremonies meant to support and celebrate you, our outstanding faculty and student scholars. Educational Excellence Week is made possible by the contributions of a dedicated team of faculty, faculty fellows, and staff led by Dr. Amber Harris Bozer (see the following page for a complete committee list). Please help me in thanking each of these tremendous individuals who have given of their time and talents to make EE Week the special celebration that it is. In closing, thank you for joining us on the journey to establish the Center throughout this academic year, and we thank you for joining us during the first Educational Excellence week.

Best wishes,

Dr. Lesley Leach, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Faculty Aﬀairs and Development, Center for Educational Excellence. EE Week Symposium Committee

EE Week Symposium Committee:

Dr. Lesley Leach Associate Dean for Faculty Aﬀairs and Development Dr. Amber Harris Bozer Committee Chair, Director of Faculty and Student Research Ms. Soncee Heard Coordinator for Applied Learning Initiatives Dr. Jim Gentry Director of Instructional Development and Course Design Dr. Sharon Bowers Director of Community Engagement and Service Learning Ms. Elsa DeLeon Administrative Services Coordinator Dr. Rebecca Putman Senior Teaching Fellow Dr. Dustin Edwards Senior Research Fellow Dr. Lisa Taylor-Cook Senior Experiential Learning Fellow Dr. Misty Smith Senior Community Engagement & Service Learning Fellow Ms. Lillian Hinson Teaching Fellow Dr. Brittany Rodriguez Teaching Fellow Dr. Rudy Tarpley Teaching Fellow Dr. Jun Xu Teaching Fellow Dr. Bryn Brown Research Fellow Dr. Haitham Abu Ghazaleh Research Fellow Dr. Kimberly Guay Research Fellow Dr. Atsuko Kawakami Research Fellow Dr. Colin G. Pennington Research Fellow Dr. Andy Wolfe Research Fellow Dr. Victoria Chraibi Experiential Learning Fellow Dr. Andrea Green Experiential Learning Fellow Dr. Darrel Murray Experiential Learning Fellow Dr. Therese Pennell Experiential Learning Fellow Ms. Callie Price Community Engagement & Service Learning Fellow Dr. Rajesh Vuddandam Community Engagement & Service Learning Fellow Dr. Scott Cook Judging Process Design and Scoring Ms. Emily McLemore Instructional Designer Mr. Justin Carell Canvas Enrollments & Support Ms. Alexis Burkett Graduate Assistant

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 3 of 55 Contents

EE Week Symposium Schedule5

Study Abroad Trivia6

Faculty Study Abroad Fair7

Research Panel - How do You Treat Yourself?8

Panel Discussion - Contemporary Issues in Grassland Restoration9

Engaged Scholars Academy (ESA) Panel 10

Faculty Teaching Panel 11

Panel Discussion - EAB is Here to Stay! 14

Canvas Workshop & CEE Highlights 15

Faculty & Staﬀ Research Presentations 16

Graduate Student Research Poster Presentations 19

Graduate Student Oral Presentations 26

Undergraduate Student Research Poster Presentations 30

Undergraduate Student Oral Presentations 38

Teaching Excellence Presentations 45

Community Engagement & Service Learning (CESL) Presentations 48

Applied & Experiential Learning Presentations 51

Grant & Scholarship Opportunities 53 EE Week Symposium Committee

EE Week Symposium Schedule

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 8:00 am Introductory Research Panel Faculty & Staﬀ Faculty University Awards Remarks Oral Research Teaching (Dr. Lesley Leach) Presentations Presentations

9:00 am Study Abroad Grasslands Community Trivia Restoration Panel Engagement & (Dr. Victoria Service Learning Chraibi) (CESL) 10:00 am Presentations Faculty Graduate Student Study Abroad Fair Research Posters

11:00 am Undergraduate Faculty Student Oral Teaching Panel Research Presentations 12:00 noon Lunch Break Lunch Break Lunch Break Lunch Break

1:00 pm Engaged Scholars Undergraduate Faculty Applied (ESA) Academy Student Oral Teaching Panel & Experiential Panel Research Learning Presentations Presentations 2:00 pm Graduate Student Faculty Oral Research Teaching Panel Presentations 3:00 pm Undergraduate EAB Panel Canvas Workshop & Research Poster CEE Highlights Presentations 4:00 pm Awards Ceremony Scholars & EE Week Research 5:00 pm

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 5 of 55 Study Abroad Trivia

Study Abroad Trivia

Monday 19th April, 9:00am–10:00am

Title: Travel Trivia: where will Tarleton Study Abroad take you?

Description: Test your knowledge of worldwide sights, food, and culture with an online trivia event hosted by Tarleton Study Abroad. Learn about study abroad opportunities and win some swag!

Hosted by:

Dr. Victoria Chraibi

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 6 of 55 Faculty Study Abroad Fair

Faculty Study Abroad Fair

Monday 19th April, 10:00am–3:00pm

Description: The Study Abroad Fair provides resources for faculty interested in running a study abroad or study away trip. Whether new faculty looking to learn the basics or seasoned study abroad faculty looking to trade tips and learn about the future of travel at Tarleton, there is something for everyone! The morning session (10:00am–12:00pm) features faculty who will discuss their experiences of running study abroad programs in Central America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. The afternoon session (1:00–3:00pm) will provide an introduction to the logistical aspects of ﬁnancial aid, virtual study abroad opportunities, the study away program, and EF Tours program provider.

Time Slot Host(s) Description 10:00am–10:20am Janet Bell Languages, Spain 10:20am–10:40am Victoria Chraibi Roatan 10:40am–11:00am Prairie Parnell Communication, UK and Ireland Darrel Murray & 11:00am–11:20am WSES, South Africa or Nepal Hemanta Kafley Sustainability and Environmental Justice, Social 11:20am–11:40am Melody Loya Work, Costa Rica 11:40am–12:00pm Craig Clifford Honors, Italy 12:00pm–12:20pm Kim Guay Animal Science, Australia 12:20pm–12:40pm Wayne Atchley Agriculture, Costa Rica Darrel Murray & 12:40pm–1:00pm WSES, South Africa or Nepal Hemanta Kafley Understanding financial components of Study 1:00pm–1:30pm Amanda Sims Abroad and Study Away 1:30pm–2:00pm Jamie Borchardt Virtual Study Abroad – Global 360 2:00pm–2:30pm EL Fellows Study Away 2:30pm–3:00pm EF Tours, etc. Using a program provider

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 7 of 55 Research Panel - How do You Treat Yourself?

Research Panel - How do You Treat Yourself?

Tuesday 20th April, 8:00am–9:00am

Description: An exploration of how self-compassion develops and how it relates to academic success, military experiences, sexual orientation, and overall psychological well-being. Self-compassion is the ability to demonstrate compassion and care towards oneself even through hardship and perceived failure or deﬁciency. Research on self-compassion has demonstrated that the ability to have compassion for oneself has been positively correlated to improved mental health, greater happiness, and increased personal motivation, while at the same time, serving as a buﬀer against anxiety, depression, rumination, shame, and fear of failure. This panel will discuss current research our lab has been conducting on self-compassion.

Participants:

Dr. Heather A. Labansat: The Construct of Self-Compassion and the Relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE’s) & the Development of this Trait. Dr. Labansat is an assistant professor at Tarleton State University in the Department of Psychological Sciences. She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses primarily at the Fort Worth campus. Her research areas are in cognitive and social psychology and focuses on self-compassion, perspective taking and well-being.

T. Forest Moore: Growing Up in Change: The Development of Self-Compassion and Perspective-Taking in Children Who Were Raised in Military Families Forest is a graduate student in the Applied Psychology Master’s program at Tarleton State University. His research interests are how military experiences inﬂuence areas of development including self-compassion, perspective taking and psychological well-being. Upon graduation from he plans to pursue a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology.

Tionna Hough: The Relationship between Self-Compassion and Sexual Orientation. Tionna is a graduate student in the Applied Psychology Master’s program at Tarleton State University. She is currently studying strategies to help people develop more self-compassion. In the future Tionna would like to study emotional regulation and work to help improve people’s mental health. Upon graduation at Tarleton State University she plans to pursue a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology.

Rene Wallace: The Relationship between Self-Compassion, Test Anxiety & Perfectionism and How it may Impact Academic Success. Rene is a graduate student in the Applied Psychology Master’s program at Tarleton State University. She is currently studying state dependent learning and how the olfactory system may serve as a retrieval cue for long-term memory. Upon graduation at Tarleton State University she plans to pursue a doctorate degree in Psychology.

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 8 of 55 Panel Discussion - Contemporary Issues in Grassland Restoration

Panel Discussion - Contemporary Issues in Grassland Restoration

Tuesday 20th April, 9:00am–10:00am

Description: Grassland systems are one of the most endangered land systems on Earth. Tarleton State University is located within what was historically native grasslands mixed with savannas and woodlands. These are now altered, and often degraded, by land use. As part of a USDA grant within the WSES department, a large-scale comprehensive initiative was proposed to restore connections with Texas grasslands through research, education, and outreach activities. Land-use, land management goals, and demographics of the state are changing. Concurrently, connections to Texas’ native grasslands and the services they provide are lost. Our goal is to improve understanding of the mechanisms of grassland degradation and restoration through applied research while restoring and strengthening the connection of people with grasslands. This panel will discuss careers in natural resource management along with contemporary issues in grassland restoration.

Participants:

Dr. John Tomecek, Assistant Professor and Extension Dan Caudle, Wildlife Specialist, Resident Research Associate, Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries Sci- Botanical Research Institute of ences, Texas (BRIT) Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

Dr. Morgan Treadwell, Dr. Caitlyn Cooper-Norris, Associate Professor & Extension Assistant Professor in Texas Tech Range Specialist, University’s Department of Natural Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Resources Management Extension Center – San Angelo

Dr. Darrel Murray, Dr. William E. Fox, Assistant Professor, Texas A&M University, Wildlife, Sustainability, and Department of Rangeland, Wildlife, Ecosystem Sciences Department, and Fisheries Management Tarleton State University

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 9 of 55 Engaged Scholars Academy (ESA) Panel

Engaged Scholars Academy (ESA) Panel

Tuesday 20th April, 1:00pm–2:00pm

Description: The Engaged Scholars Academy (ESA) is a professional development program for faculty desiring to further integrate service learning into courses, enrich applied learning experiences of students through mutually–beneﬁcial community partnerships, and engage in scholarship directly beneﬁtting society. Panelists are all alumni of the Engaged Scholars Academy and will provide insight about their experiences participating in the ESA as well as discuss the projects that they developed and implemented through this process. Attendees will also have an opportunity for Q&A.

Participants:

Dr. Marcie Reynolds Dr. Brandon Smith (COLFA) (COAES)

Dr. Christopher Sloan Ms. Callie Price (COE) (COST)

Dr. Ed Dittfurth Dr. Misty Smith (COB) (CHSHS)

Dr. Sharon Bowers (moderator)

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 10 of 55 Faculty Teaching Panel

Faculty Teaching Panel: Making the Change - Open Education Resources in Core Courses

Thursday 22nd April, 11:00am–12:00pm

Description: Come learn from the 2020 Tarleton Open Educational Resource (OER) Grant win- ners! This panel features faculty members that converted core curriculum classes to using freely available, open educational resources. As the cost of higher education continues to rise, students need affordable, accessible materials. More than ever students are struggling to afford food and housing, much less expensive commercial textbooks. OER provides high-quality alternatives that can be freely adapted, distributed, and reused. Our outstanding faculty members will discuss their motivations for switching to OERs and ways they found and adapted resources to fit their classrooms, all while teaching during a pandemic. Participants will hear anecdotes from faculty that are discovering and creating OER, learn about available support and resources for transitioning a class to OER, and find encouragement to start transitioning their classes. Faculty from College of Education, College of Liberal and Fine Arts, and staff from Tarleton Libraries will offer insight to what it takes to implement OER and how to get started.

Participants:

Ms. Katie Pierce Farrier Ms. Amy Castillo

Dr. Karl Aho Dr. Stephanie Robertson

Dr. Trina Geye Dr. Charles Howard

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 11 of 55 Faculty Teaching Panel

Faculty Teaching Panel: Increasing Student Engagement Through Active Learning

Thursday 22nd April, 1:00pm–2:00pm

Description: This presentation explores student engagement and the advantages and obstacles associated with teaching in a polysynchronous learning environment. Discuss with panelists the research on innovative blended delivery models that eﬀectively engage students in active learning approaches. See examples of the trial, error, and ultimately the success of incorporating collaboration tools and student choice into your course design. Analyze samples from courses taught in the fall of 2020 and the corresponding student feedback. Learn how to incorporate these research-based activities to enhance engagement in your course.

Participants:

Dr. Rebecca Morrow Ms. Emily McLemore

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 12 of 55 Faculty Teaching Panel

Faculty Teaching Panel: Deconstructing Racism - One Class at a Time

Thursday 22nd April, 2:00pm–3:00pm

Description: In the summer of 2020, in the midst of a renewed reckoning on racial justice issues and other historical and contemporary inequalities, a group of Tarleton faculty and staﬀ got together through Facebook to discuss what they could do to push forward the cause of racial equity at Tarleton and the surrounding community. We gave ourselves a name, the Tarleton Racial Equity Coalition, and over the next couple months we continued to meet regularly and discussed what we could do as professors to explore the systemic roots of racism in our own curriculums and disciplines. We also explored potential actions that could be taken at the University level to improve the climate around the campus in regards to race and diversity. This panel will highlight some of the actions members of our coalition have taken in their own classrooms, to amplify diverse voices and reconstruct the canon of works that compromise our curriculum. The panel will also discuss the various ways we have tackled having the diﬃcult but necessary conversations about race in our classrooms.

Participants:

Dr. Iwao Asakura Dr. Jensen Branscombe

Mr. Timothy Harding Dr. Katrina Hinson

Mr. Chris Ireland

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 13 of 55 Panel Discussion - EAB is Here to Stay!

Panel Discussion - EAB is Here to Stay! Leveraging Technology for Student Performance and Success

Thursday 22nd April, 3:00pm–4:00pm

Description: This panel explores how Tarleton faculty and staﬀ can use EAB Navigate to monitor and report on student performance and progress. The panel is composed of faculty and staﬀ from multiple divisions who are focused on student success and retention.

Participants:

Dr. Melody Loya Dr. Lora Helvie-Mason

Dr. Wayne Atchley Ms. Cassie Kunkel (moderator)

Ms. Jessica Bucher Dr. Manon Shockey

Ms. Ashlee (Noblin) Tolliver

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 14 of 55 Canvas Workshop & CEE Highlights

Canvas Workshop & CEE Highlights

Friday 22nd April

Time: 3:00pm–3:30pm Topic: Canvas Workshop - What We Wish We Had Known Description: This workshop will be an open discussion about what we wished we had known about Canvas. Participants will have an opportunity to share their Canvas tips and tricks. Experienced and novel Canvas users are welcome to this low-stakes conversation.

Time: 3:30pm–4:00pm Topic: Center for Educational Excellence Highlights Description: This presentation will summarize the highlights and snapshots from EE week.

Presenter:

Ms. Callie J. Price

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 15 of 55 Faculty & Staﬀ Research Presentations

Faculty & Staﬀ Research Presentations

Wednesday 21st April, 8:00am–11:00am

Time Slot Presentation Title 8:00am–8:30am F01 : Predatory Publishers and How to Avoid Them F02 : Perceptual Barriers Underlying Influenza Vaccine Non-compliance at a 8:30am–9:00am Rural Texas University F03 : Implementation and evaluation of a pandemic simulation exercise among 9:00am–9:30am undergraduate public health and nursing students: A mixed-methods study F04 : Innovative 3D Native Mimicking System to Understand the Tumor 9:30am–10:00am Growth F05 : Comparison of measured and calculated partition coefficients and distri- 10:00am–10:30am bution coefficients for catechol flavones

• F01 : Predatory Publishers and How to Avoid Them Katie Pierce Farrier Abstract: Publishing in unethical, low quality journals can harm a researcher’s career and reputation. This session will discuss ways to identify and avoid these types of publishers. Predatory publishing is a growing problem, with more unethical journals being created every day. Potentially predatory journals are making their way onto trusted indexes and databases, making them harder to spot. With the think-check-submit process, participants will learn practical ways to evaluate and identify potentially predatory practices. This process provides a checklist of questions to consider before submitting an article for publishing. Participants will learn how to identify red ﬂags on journal websites and emails, learn about library resources to help them identify trustworthy journals, and will include a practice session to identify red ﬂags on various journal websites. Participants will be better prepared to evaluate journal quality and guard themselves against predatory publishing tactics.

College of Health Sciences and Human Services

• F02 : Perceptual Barriers Underlying Influenza Vaccine Non-compliance at a Ru- ral Texas University Subi Gandhi & Amber Harris Bozer Abstract: Objective: To investigate influenza vaccination rates and perceptions underlying vaccine non- compliance. Participants: Participants included undergraduate students (N=365) at a rural, medium sized university in Texas. Methods: Students were anonymously surveyed in the spring of 2018 on demographics, insurance status, perceived barriers of influenza vaccination, and vaccination status.

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Results: Nearly 90% of students had health insurance; however, only 30% of them received the influenza vaccination annually. The top two reasons for non-vaccination were the low perceived threat (20.20%) and having a busy schedule (11.10%). Having health insurance [OR: 2.84, CI: (1.16, 7.0)] and being in the younger age group (18–24) [OR: 1.98, CI: (1.11, 3.54)] were both positively associated with the annual vaccination status. Conclusion: Health education efforts should be focused on vaccination initiatives that increase awareness about the health benefits and ease of access, especially among the older age groups (≥ 25 years). Information on myths versus facts should also be disseminated.

• F03 : Implementation and evaluation of a pandemic simulation exercise among undergraduate public health and nursing students: A mixed-methods study Subi Gandhi, Jennifer Yeager, & Ryan Glaman Abstract: Background: To better train future healthcare professionals and develop collaborations across healthcare disciplines, pandemic simulations have been incorporated into undergraduate healthcare professional curricula. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the usefulness of a pandemic simulation in preparing future healthcare professionals during large-scale pandemic disasters. Design: This was a mixed-methods, cross-sectional study. Setting: The study was conducted at a 4-year public university in rural Texas. Methods: The students (11 = 89) participated in a simulation exercise that mirrored a real influenza pandemic and facilitated interactions among various first responders. Participants completed pre-and post-tests of knowledge survey questions pertaining to areas of situational awareness, communication effectiveness, and public health knowledge, and the 27-item Nurs- ing Anxiety and Self-Confidence with Clinical Decision-Making Scale. Results: The majority (76%) of the participants were between the ages of 18 to 24, Caucasians (74.2%), and females (87.6%). The results of the paired t-test showed increased situational awareness, effective communication, and public health knowledge following the pandemic simulation. Conclusion: The study results demonstrated value in incorporating simulation as an effective teaching strategy in preparing future healthcare professionals.

• F04 : Innovative 3D Native Mimicking System to Understand the Tumor Growth Girdhari Rijal Abstract: Native or cancer cells are in a dynamic multifactorial microenvironment which is mainly constituted by their own extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. The ECM alteration in a tumor tissue is faster than in a normal tissue due to rapid growth of cancer and cancer- associated cells. Changes in the microenvironment are transduced into intracellular signaling pathways, which regulate cell fate and cell behavior. The understanding of tumor growth is still a challenge due to native tumor tissue complexity. Some advance cancer in-vitro models such as spheroids, cell-laden synthetic scaﬀolds, and cancer-on-a chip devices have been considered as powerful tools to address this challenge, however, they cannot mimic the native like complex tumor microenvironment due to their inability to organize multi-cell types in a complex dynamic 3D platform. In this study, hydrogel is prepared from the ECMs of multi- cell types such as cancer cells, endothelial cells, ﬁbroblasts, macrophages, and fat cells that

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 17 of 55 Faculty & Staﬀ Research Presentations

resembles the native breast tumor-ECM. Further, the multi-cell types are co-cultured in a way into the hydrogel to form the complex tumoroids, representing native breast tumors. They are further dissected to understand tumor growth by the study of some cell signatures, which are triggered after cell–cell and cell-matrix interactions.

College of Science and Technology

• F05 : Comparison of measured and calculated partition coefficients and distribution coefficients for catechol flavones William Land Whaley & Marcus A. Gregory Abstract: There is evidence supporting investigation of catechol-flavones and catechol-flavonols for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. The compound 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8- DHF) has shown efficacy in preclinical models of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntingon’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The catechol-flavonols, fisetin and quercetin, have also exhibited neuroprotection in models of these diseases. For flavonoids to be effective as oral medications for brain disorders, they must be absorbed through the small intestine, delivered through the blood stream and transported across the blood-brain barrier. The logarithm of the 1-octanol/water partition coefficient (LogP) is the most commonly used descriptor for predicting the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) properties of drugs. Due to problems with self-association, decomposition and low aqueous solubil- ity, accurate LogP values are hard to measure for complex flavonoids. Simple catechol-flavones were used to measure the positional effect of the catechol group on LogP. Flavone, 7,8-DHF, 5,6-dihydroxyflavone, 6,7-dihydroxyflavone, 2’,3’-dihydroxyflavone, 3’,4’-dihydroxyflavone and 3,2’-dihydroxyflavone (3.2’-DHF) were assayed using a modified “shake-flask” method with detection by UV absorbance. Measured LogP values were generally in between those predicted by the ACD/Labs Percepta Platform and those calculated by the Abraham General Solvation Equation. For each compound, the reverse-phase chromatographic retention factor (k’) was determined using an octadecyl-silane (ODS) column with an acidic methanol/water mobile phase. A good correlation between Logk’ and LogP was obtained. The 1-octanol/aqueous buffer (pH=7.4) distribution coefficient (LogD) was also determined for each compound. A good correlation between Logk’ and LogD was obtained: however, 3,2’-DHF exhibited a very low LogD value. This result is consistent with a pKa value near 6.0 for 3,2’-DHF that convers ionic character at the physiological pH of 7.4.

EE Week Symposium 2021 Page 18 of 55 Graduate Student Research Poster Presentations

Graduate Student Research Poster Presentations College of Graduate Studies Tuesday 20th April, 10:00am–12:00pm

• G01 : Importance of Athletic Training in the Police Academy Kasie Bell Faculty mentor: Andrea Green Abstract: Context: There are a number of injuries that happen over the course of the police academy and even more risks when it comes to them performing physical training to assess their strengths and weaknesses. Methods: An email was sent out to the participants which included the survey that asked questions over their overall health while in the academy. In this study, ANOVA will be used to separate the returned data into different groups. Results: In this study it was found that out of the 35 responses from the surveys taken, 62% of the participants stated that they agreed or strongly agreed that they would’ve felt more confident with a certified athletic trainer present. As well as 37% of the participants answered yes to having an injury occur while in the academy. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, having a certified athletic trainer on standby at the physical training portions of the police academy would be beneficial based on the amount of participants that agreed or strongly agreed, which was over 54%.

• G02 : Using CBD for Pain Management in Collegiate and Post-Collegiate Ath- letes Miranda Ellis Faculty mentor: Andrea Green Abstract: Context: The purpose of this study is to look at the usage of CBD cream for pain management in the collegiate setting and with post-collegiate athletes. Methods: Two surveys were developed for this study. One targeted certiﬁed and licensed athletic trainers in the collegiate setting with one geared towards post-collegiate athletes. Results: This data was examined through mean, median, mode as well as through percentages. Looking at the post collegiate survey, 80% believe CBD is an appropriate alternative to prescription medication to alleviate pain. Looking at the athletic trainers, 37% strongly agreeing to the statement “If CBD would become legal in the NJCAA and NCAA, I would consider using CBD cream in my athletic training room.” Conclusions: These results suggest that post collegiate athletes believe that CBD is beneﬁcial for any pain they have been experiencing and they highly recommend it to others. When looking at the results from the athletic trainers’ survey, there is still some questions about the usage of CBD in the collegiate training rooms if it were to become legal.

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• G03 : The Knowledge and Use of Mental Health Care Resources Harley Gardner Faculty mentors: Andrea Green & Stephanie Nelson Abstract: The Knowledge and Use of Mental Health Care Resources. 2020; The purpose of this research study is to identify certified athletic trainers’ knowledge and how mental health care resources are utilized by them. The study consisted of 103 anonymous survey responses from all districts of the National Athletic Training Association. Out of the 19 questions asked, 10 of these were based on a 5 point Likert scale (strongly disagree to strongly agree). The remaining 9 questions were multiple choice answers such as (yes, no, and unsure) as well as demographics. The frequency of the answers chosen were compared using either a simple T-Test or ANOVA. There was no significant difference when using an independent samples T-Test to compare biological sex to whether or not “It is important to me that my employer offers mental health care resource”. When using a T-Test, there was not a statistical significant difference between the setting that the certified athletic trainer works in and if they had ever experienced a work related crisis. This study can produce many more research questions along the lines of mental health care and the utilization of resources in the athletic training field.

• G04 : Sickle Cell Testing in Collegiate Athletes Brianna Horan Faculty mentors: Carla Heffner & Andrea Green Abstract: The purpose of this study is to properly identify collegiate athletic department policy on sickle cell testing and if more policies should be implemented. The study is done to provide a template on proper implementation of an emergency action plan for proper care of sickling athletes and also to provide education for athletes, coaches, and parents/guardians. This survey provided results from 206 anonymous responses encompassing all districts of the National Athlete Training Association; accessed by social media and email contacts. Out of the 206 anonymous responses 99 have been disqualified due to unfinished responses. The participants completed a twenty-one question survey. Out of the twenty-one questions, eleven questions were additional demographics and multiple choice answers such as (yes, no, and unsure). Three of the eleven were based on a seven point Likert scale (strongly disagree to strongly agree), and seven questions were fill in the blank with numeric values. After inves- tigating the results of the study, there was no correlation between the policies and attitudes of the athletic trainer and providing an option for the athlete to opt out of testing. Further research and more participants can raise the awareness of proper protocols on sickle cell testing.

• G05 : Body Image Inflexibility and its Correlates: Examining a Sample of College Students Tionna Hough Faculty mentor: Heather Labansat Abstract: Body image inflexibility, or the unwillingness to experience and accept negative cognitions and emotions related to one’s physical appearance, is associated with disordered eating cognitions and behaviors (Masuda & Wendell, 2010). Existing research on correlates of body image inflexibility suggests it is higher among nonathletes than athletes and in women compared to men (Malinauskas et al., 2007; Sandoz et al., 2013). However, this area of litera-

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ture neglects to thoroughly explore self-compassion and trait perfectionism in relation to body image inflexibility. The present study examined the various relationships between gender, trait perfectionism, trait self-compassion, competitive sports participation, and body image inflexibility in a sample of college students (N = 328). The results of these analyses determined significant correlations between body image inflexibility and each of the predictor variables except competitive sports involvement. Men reported lower levels of body image inflexibility than women (F = 4.08). Body image inflexibility was positively associated with self-oriented and socially-prescribed perfectionism (r = .19 − .35). Furthermore, body image inflexibility was negatively associated with self-compassion (r = −.46). Exploratory analyses determined significant relationships among the predictor variables, as well. These findings suggest that body image inflexibility is related to gender-related experiences distinct aspects of self-concept, such as perfectionism and self-compassion.

• G06 : Burnout in Athletes Whose Parents Were Coaches Taylor Kimbrell & Isabel Escamilla Faculty mentors: Andrea Green & Stephanie Nelson Abstract: The purpose of this study is to compare and contrast adolescents who have had their parents be coaches to adolescents who have not had parents as a coach. This study consisted of 76 participants, 16 were excluded due to incompletely filling out the survey. This survey targeted adolescents to young adults between the ages of 16-25 whose parents were coaches. Participants completed a 21 question survey. This data was also analyzed through mean, median, mode and through percentages. 56.52% of respondents reported they compete at the recreational level of sports, 36.96% said they compete at the club level, 4.35% at semi- elite and 2.17% at the elite level. There were significant findings in ANOVA when comparing gender and how participants agree to the statement “I’m accomplishing many worthwhile things in sport”. This was noted by a p-value of .007. There were no significant findings when comparing “How many hours a week they spend competing” and “I feel pressured to follow standard procedures” based on an independent T-test with a p-value of .851. The results suggest that athletes whose parents were their coaches had no significant impact on their training or psychological well-being.

• G07 : Characterization of the Microbiome of the Barton Springs Salamander Tiffany Lujan, Faith Cox, & Kristin Sefcik Faculty mentors: Jesse Meik, Jeff Brady, & Dustin Edwards Abstract: Globally, over 70% of amphibians are suffering a decline, with the urbanization of ecosystems being a threat to amphibians. The Edwards Aquifer provides water for the city of Austin, Texas, as well as as a habitat to the federally endangered Eurycea sosorum. The Austin Nature and Science center is a permanent facility where salamanders are held for a captive rearing program with the aim of reintroduction of salamanders into Barton Springs. We hypothesize that the microbiome of host captive salamanders differs from that of wild salamanders and could be contributing to negative effects on host fitness. The skin microbiota of amphibians is a vital organ that regulates different physiological processes and has been shown to impact overall host fitness by providing protection against fungal pathogens. Microbial community composition between captive and wild populations of amphibians varies

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dramatically in species richness and abundance. In partnership with the City of Austin, we collected skin microbiota, fecal, substrate, and water samples from salamander habitats to characterize the differences in microbial communities between captive and wild salamanders. Bacterial and fungal DNA was extracted from the samples and bacterial 16S rRNA and the ITS region of fungal rRNA was amplified using Earth Microbiome Project primers. Ampli- cons were cleaned using AMPure brands to enrich target and remove non-target DNA prior to index PCR with barcoding primers. Index products were pooled to equimolar concentrations and purified using Pippin Prep. Amplicons were sequenced at Texas A&M Genomics and Bioinformatics Services. Sequence analysis was conducted using QIIME and USEARCH. Op- erational taxonomic units (OTUs) will be assigned using Greengenes database and USEARCH then aligned with PyNAST. The OTU table was clustered at 97% similarity, filtered to remove rare OTUs, and normalized. Maximum likelihood phylogenetic trees will be constructed using FastTree. Unweighted UniFrac distance metrics will be utilized to compare differences in beta diversity due to temporal, geographical, and wild versus captive microbiomes.

• G08 : The Effect of Perceptually Regulated Recovery on Lift Quality of Females during Different Resistance Training Conditions Sarah Matthews Faculty mentor: Andrew Wolfe Abstract: Substantial variances in mean self-selected recovery time between male and female has recently been reported when completing resistance exercise intended to improve muscular strength. These finding suggested females recover quicker than males, and the current standardized intrasession rest recommendations may necessitate adjustments to account for sex specific responses. PURPOSE: The goal of the current investigate was to examine female lift quality responses to perceptually regulated intrasession recovery during various resistance training protocols. METHODS: Participants (n = 10 females; 7 control, 7 experimental) completed nine resistance exercise sessions. Session one involved one-repetition maximum (1RM) testing for squat (SQ) and deadlift (DL). Participants performed eight subsequent working sessions utilizing intensity, set, repetition, and intrasession recovery schemes for DL & SQ targeting the four primary resistance training goals: hypertrophy (HP), strength (ST), endurance (ED), and power (PW). A minimum of 48 hours rest was required between sessions. Control group utilized standardized rest intervals between sets. Experimental group utilized the Perceived Recovery Status (PRS) scale to guide their recovery. Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) using the OMNI RPE scale for resistance training was recorded after each set. Lift quality (LQ), defined as repetitions completed, was recorded for each set. RESULTS: A One-sample T-Test (p < .05) identified mean control PRS scores for the ED DL and SQ (5.56 ± 1.51; 5.11 ± 1.45, respectfully) sessions were significantly higher than the assigned experimental PRS score (4.0) (p=0.02; p=0.05). Mean experiment group times for the PW SQ and DL (105.73s ± 18.13; 100.73s ± 26.80, respectfully) sessions were significantly lower than the standardized time (120s) (p=0.04; p=0.03). Mean experimental group times for the HP SQ (46 ± 17.57, respectfully) session was significant lower then the standardized time (60s), (p=0.04). All other PRS and time comparison were not significantly different. Repeated Measures ANOVA indicated no significant main effect in LQ across all sessions, nor

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group RPE for HP, ST, and PW sessions. A significant main effect (p = .046) was identified between group reported RPE during the ME session. CONCLUSION: These results suggest the utilization of perceptually regulated recover yields lift performance comparable to the usage of standardized recovery. The control group reported significantly higher perceived recover during ME sessions than the experiment group, and experimental group rest times were significantly lower during HP session, suggesting the current standardized rest time recommendation for ME and HP training may necessitation an alternation (decrease for females) to account for sex specific responses. Interestingly, the control group reported significantly higher perceived exertion when placed under time restricted recovery (standardized recovery) during ME training. The researchers suggest future investi- gations examine the practical resistance training efficacy of the PRS scale for females.

• G09 : The Benefits of Study Abroad Jessica Moreno Faculty mentor: Andrea Green Abstract: Over the years the United States population continues to diversify tremendously. With this increase in diversity, health care providers must become aware of how the treatment should be given due to the change in population. The purpose of this study is to determine the importance of incorporating study abroad into the course curriculum for athletic training students. Three main goals that are the primary focus when studying abroad are interpersonal growth, career development, and cultural awareness. Methods: A survey was sent out that consisted of twenty-one questions based on three categories: personal growth, career development, and cultural awareness. The survey consisted of Likert scale questions and free-response. Participants must have been athletic training/Kinesiology students from a university. Results: Results for each question were reviewed by using ANOVA analysis and t-test. When comparing “improvement in interpersonal skills and ability to adapt” and “ability to communicate with individuals across multiple language barriers” with a p-value of .753 there were no significant findings. Conclusion: Overall, on average survey responses showed an improvement in each of the three development categories.

• G10 : Diﬀerence in Standardized Repetitions Completed at 1-Repetition Maxi- mum Load Percentages for Women Aaron Rinehart Faculty mentors: Andrew Wolfe & Matt Laurent Abstract: In resistance training, a given training load is determined by two factors, volume (number of repetitions completed) and intensity (weight lifted). The current literature clearly recognizes an inverse relationship between the weight lifted and repetitions completed. The previous studies establishing intensity-to-repetition ratios predominantly utilized male participants. Research has yet to explore and determine appropriate resistance training intensity- repetition ratios for females. PURPOSE: Furthermore, the purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between achieved repetitions and load lifted (a percentage of 1RM) of college females. METHODS: Subjects included 11 females with six month of consistent resistance training experience. Each participant completed ﬁve testing sessions. Session one consists of one-repetition maximum (1RM) testing for the squat (SQ), bench press (BP),

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and deadlift (DL), utilizing the National Strength and Conditioning Associations (NSCA) standardized 1RM testing procedures. Sessions 2-5 were experimental sessions involving a repetition-maximum testing at 65, 75, 85, and 95% of an individual’s 1RM, in the order of SQ, BP, then DL. Following the SQ, participants received 10-15 minutes of rest before performing the same protocol for the BP, followed by 10-15 minutes rest before performing the DL. Re- peated measures ANOVA was performed to determine if there were any significant differences in repetitions performed at each level of intensity for the three exercises. A series of one-sample t-tests were performed to indicate significant differences between established target repetitions for each exercise across all intensities (65% = 15, 75% = 10, 85% = 6, 95% = 2). RESULTS: There was no significant main effect (p=0.13) in repetitions completed during SQ, BP, or DL at 65% (26.7±2.0, 20.6±1.8, 23.5±2.0, respectively). Similarly, no significant main effect was found at 75% (p=0.26) across SQ, BP, and DL (16.5 ± 1.5, 13.7 ± 1.0, 15.5 ± 1.2, respectively). At 85% there was no significant main effect found for repetitions completed during SQ, BP, and DL (8.9 ± 0.5, 8.1 ± 0.9, 8.2 ± 0.8, respectively). Finally, no significant main effect was present at 95% during SQ, BP, and DL (3.2 ± 0.5, 2.5 ± 0.4, and 3.0 ± 0.4, respectively). The one-sample t-test indicated a significantly higher repetitions for all SQ, BP, and DL at 65% (p < 0.01) and 75% (p < 0.01). At 85% of 1RM, only SQ (p < 0.01) and DL (p=0.02) were significantly higher, with only SQ significantly higher at 95% (p=0.04). CONCLUSION: These results suggest the same intensity-repetition ratios should be prescribed for upper and lower body exercises in females. However, the results suggest different resistance training intensity-repetition ratios should be prescribed for females; meriting future research aimed at establishing sex-specific intensity-repetition ratio norms.

• G11 : Medical Staffing on Cruise Ships Bianca Savage Faculty mentor: Andrea Green Abstract: The purpose of this study is to get an insight on the medical staff on cruise ship and see if there is a need for help by Athletic Trainers. Every year over 27 million people go on cruises. Going on cruise ships can be a vacation filled with a lot of fun including; ex- ploring new locations, experiencing a different culture, tasting a location’s signature dish and stepping out of a comfort zone while trying risky activities. Thousands of people get sick or seek medical help each year on cruises. The study could identify if adequate staff are being utilized on cruise lines to provide healthcare to passengers and crew. If it was determined that the staff is being overwhelmed, the study could support the addition of AT’s to help with the illnesses and injuries, especially musculoskeletal injuries. This study will also be focusing on the passengers, crew and the medical staff’s outlook. The survey would focus on getting their honest opinion on the experience, their diagnosis while rating certain topics plus what they think could have made their experience better.

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• G12 : Assessing the Rates of Osteoarthritis in Knees of Experienced Athletic Trainers Stacy Smith Faculty mentors: Andrea Green & Steve Simpson Abstract: Methods: A survey consisting of 29 medical, social and demographic history questions was distributed throughout the United States via social media platforms and email. Questions included multiple choice, select all that apply and fill in the blank. Participants were required to be over the age of 45 with any amount of athletic training experience. Results: Of the 329 survey participants, 23% of the total responses reported that they have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knee joint with no significance between years of experience and a positive diagnosis. 60% of respondents noted having a work span of 21–30 years. There was no correlation indicated between the types of work surface or the primary work setting and osteoarthritis. The clinical setting was noted to have a p-value of 0.147 whereas those who worked in the professional sports setting had a p-value of 0.895. Conclusion: Based on the findings in the study, there is no direct significant correlation between physical stress of athletic trainers and knee osteoarthritis rates outside of the factors influenc- ing the general population. Factors such as years of experience time spent sitting, standing or squatting did not play a significant role in the diagnosis of osteoarthritis in athletic trainers.

• G13 : Paleolimnology of Possum Kingdom Lake, Texas Lane Allen Faculty mentor: Victoria Chraibi Abstract: Harmful algal blooms (HAB) are increasingly reported in Texas reservoirs, but it is unclear how long this trend has been developing in water bodies less than 100 years old. This study retrieved sediment cores from Possum Kingdom Lake on the Brazos River, which has had recent HAB events including a ﬁsh kill in 2020. Sediment geochemistry and fossil algae were characterized to reconstruct the environmental history of a river developing into a lake after dam construction to consider potential drivers of HAB events. Post-impoundment conditions were characterized by high detrital input and low primary productivity, likely due to erosion inputs from the construction of the dam. Eventually the phytoplankton community established, dominated by soft algae based upon Ca:Ti inferred primary productivity. The green alga Phacotus was common in this period, indicating eutrophic conditions. Recently the diatom community has signiﬁcantly shifted to be dominated by Cyclotella atomus, a small planktic species associated with warmer, longer summers. The core also displayed evidence of severe droughts such as that of 2011–2014. Recent Prymnesium parvum blooms occurred during the Cyclotella atomus-dominated period, so the trends documented in the sediment record may provide insight into the environmental factors driving this type of HAB event.

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Graduate Student Oral Presentations College of Graduate Studies Tuesday 20th April, 2:00pm–5:00pm

Time Slot Presentation Title 2:00pm–2:20pm GR01 : Correctional Oﬃcer Stress 2:20pm–2:40pm GR02 : Exploration of the Olfactory System and Long-Term Memory GR03 : A Comparison of Techniques for Decomposing Surface EMG Signals During 2:40pm–3:00pm High-Intensity Contractions 3:00pm–3:20pm GR04 : Evaluation of Oral Supplementation of Cannabidiol (CBD) in Horses GR05 : Manual Versus Semi-Automated Detection of Muscle Fascicle Pennation An- 3:20pm–3:40pm gle of the Vastus Lateralis GR06 : The Examination of a Short Online Self-Led Self-Compassion Training to 3:40pm–4:00pm Increase Self-Compassion and Psychological Well-being GR07 : The Lived Experiences of 911 Dispatchers Resulting From Hearing Traumatic 4:00pm–4:20pm Calls: A Phenomenological Study

• GR01 : Correctional Officer Stress Sofia Brabham Faculty mentor: Olga Semukhina Abstract: This paper analyzes prior literature on correctional officers and their self-reported stress. Additionally, this study analyzes multiple variables, such as correctional officer tenure, direct contact with inmates, alcohol consumption, gender, and race. A survey was distributed to a sample of 515 correctional officers in Texas and Massachusetts. A binary logistic regression was used to analyze the research question of tenure and reported stress and three hypotheses. The three hypotheses include the relationship between male correctional officers and alcohol consumption, higher reported hours of direct contacts with inmates and stress, and self-reported stress by male and female correctional officers. Overall, the findings from the binary logistic regression determined that there was an insignificant relationship between the variables analyzed for the research question and the three hypotheses. Significant limitations of this study will be discussed, as well as recommendations for future research.

• GR02 : Exploration of the Olfactory System and Long-Term Memory Rene Wallace Faculty mentor: Heather Labansat Abstract: The purpose of this study is to identify if smell is a factor that contributes to memory recall and recognition in a learning environment. The current body of research indicates that there are certain variables that aﬀect learning by serving as retrieval cues, for example chewing gum and smoking have been studied to see if they have any eﬀect on learning and

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memory recall (Ginns, Kim & Zervos, 2018, Miles & Johnson, 2006, Baker, Bezance, Zellaby & Aggleton, 2004, Peters & McGee 1982). Ambient odors have also been studied which re- sulted in the belief that incidental elements in the environment can contribute to learning by becoming retrieval cues (Smith, Standing, & de Man 1992). Moss et al. (2003) found that some essential oil odors did have an eﬀect on cognition and Herz (1997) states that because there is no other sensory system that is so directly in contact with emotion and memory as the olfactory system, this is indirect support enough for emotional distinctiveness of odor-evoked memory.

• GR03 : A Comparison of Techniques for Decomposing Surface EMG Signals Dur- ing High-Intensity Contractions: A Preliminary Analysis Lyric Richardson, JoCarol Shields, Rob Maclennan, Michael Trevino, Alessandro Del Vecchio, & Jason M. DeFreitas Faculty mentor: Micheal Luera Abstract: Advancements in surface electromyography (sEMG) have led to discrepancies in identification of high-threshold motor units (MU) following signal decomposition PURPOSE: To examine the differences in MU firing behaviors recorded from two separate sEMG sensors following respective decomposition analysis. METHODS: Following 2 maximal voluntary contractions (MVC), ten (23 ± 3 yrs.; 178.64 ± 5.82 cm; 177.8 ± 17.37 kg) lower body resistance trained males performed a 10 sec submaximal (50%) isometric ramp contraction of the knee extension exercise. Signals were recorded from the vastus lateralis and separately decom- posed into their constituent MU action potential trains, then further validated for subsequent analysis of firing behaviors. The slope and y-intercept were calculated between recruitment threshold versus mean firing rate (RT/MFR). Two separate paired samples t test were used to compare differences in regression coefficients for RT/MFR relationships between sensors, and differences in RTs of validated MUs during 50%MVC. RESULTS:. There were significant differences in RT/MFR coefficients between the two sensors (p < 0.05), as well as, respective RTs from the identified MUs (p < 0.05) CONCLUSION: We are uncertain as to what led to the differences between the two sEMG systems (decomposition algorithms, validation techniques, application area, etc). It is feasible that the substantial difference in yield (i.e. number of validated MUs), possibly due to different validation criteria, affected the outcomes. Thus, further studies should examine the effects of manual editing validation process on the end results.

• GR04 : Evaluation of Oral Supplementation of Cannabidiol (CBD) in Horses Lori Cohen Faculty mentor: Kimberly Guay, William B. Smith, Jyme Nichols, & Trinette Jones Abstract: The use of hemp-based cannabidiol (CBD) as a supplement for horses has gained within recent years. The objectives of this study were to determine an appropriate dosage, CBD clearance from the blood, and to evaluate physiological and behavioral eﬀects of a one- time oral dose of CBD in light-breed horses. CBD was reconstituted in olive oil which was fed on a mg/kg basis. Eight horses (4 mares and 4 geldings), were blocked by age and gender. Horses were acclimated to stall environment and feeding methods a week prior to treatment. One week later, horses were assigned one of two treatments: LOW dose (0.3 mg/kg) and HIGH dose (0.6 mg/kg) of a CBD/olive oil mixture. Venous blood was collected by jugular

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puncture at h 0, 1, 4, 24, and centrifuged with serum/plasma aliquots. CBD concentrations were analyzed using an LC/MS. Additionally, heart rates were recorded every 15 minutes for 3 hours, feed and water intake was recorded for 24 h. Video was also taken of each horse to evaluate behavior and time of initial meal. Data were analyzed using SAS at 9.3 PROC MIXED procedures. Horses receiving HIGH dose had higher (p=0.005) mean levels of plasma CBD compared to horses receiving LOW dose; with concentrations (2.55 ng/mL and 0.51 ng/ml respectively) peaking at h 4. Feed intake, as a percentage of BW, tended to be higher (p=0.06) in horses fed the HIGH dose and time of initial meal diﬀered (p=0.002) with HIGH averaging 271.4 min compared to 135.15 mins for LOW). Overall heart rates tended to be higher (p=0.07) in LOW horses; however, all heart rates were within normal resting values throughout the collection period. A single dose of orally-administered CBD oil, at either 0.3 mg/kg or 0.6 mg/kg, did not result in abnormal heart rates or feed intake in horses over a 24-hour period. These results were used to determine a dose amount for a longer duration (5-d feed trial) study of CBD supplementation and feed intake in horses.

• GR05 : Manual Versus Semi-Automated Detection of Muscle Fascicle Pennation Angle of the Vastus Lateralis Natalie Walker, Jesus Hernandez-Sarabia, Carlos Estrada, JoCarol Shields, Rob MacLennan Faculty mentors: Jason DeFreitas, Scott Crawford, & Micheal Luera Abstract: Muscle pennation angle (PA) is a key characteristic in muscle function. However, current methodologies are tedious, time consuming, and usually only include a few representative fascicles for the PA measures. Leveraging image processing methods could improve the efficiency of PA measurements while still providing valuable insight into architectural changes during specific tasks. PURPOSE: To compare manual (MAN) versus semi-automated (SA) analyses for muscle PA within the vastus lateralis (VL) utilizing ultrasound images taken during isometric knee extensions at different intensities relative to maximum volitional effort. METHODS: Sixteen lower-body resistance trained males (n =7, mean ± SD; 21± 7 yrs; 77.7 ± 30.1 kg; 157.3 ± 53.8cm) and females (n = 9; 23 ± 4yrs; 64.6 ± 4.0 kg, 166.5 ± 5.7 cm) were included in the study. Subjects were seated upright with the knee joint fixed at 110◦ of extension and an S-beam load cell attached to the ankle. Ultrasound images were collected from the VL of the right limb while relaxed (REST) and during 3 separate isometric contractions of the knee extension exercise at 30, 70, and 100% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Images were analyzed offline using ImageJ (MAN). The SA method used feature detection techniques to identify fascicles in MATLAB. PA was measured from the deep aponeurosis manually (3 representative fascicles) and calculated relative to the horizontal (SA). A two-way mixed factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) (analysis [MAN vs. SA] x intensity [REST vs 30%MVC vs 70%MVC vs 100%MVC]) was used to determine differences in PA measures. Post hoc analysis with Bonferroni adjustments were made as deemed appropriate by the ANOVA. RESULTS: An average of 25 representative fascicles were identified in each image using SA procedures. There was no interaction between analysis method and intensity (p = 0.117). SA underestimated PA compared to the MAN technique (-1.7 ± 0.5◦, p = 0.014). There was a main effect of intensity (p = 0.002; 100%MVC > REST and 30%MVC). CONCLUSION: The SA method underestimated PA compared to MAN measures, perhaps due the fact that the SA measures did not account for any changes in the angle of the deep aponeurosis. Significant

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diﬀerences in PA were only noted at 100%MVC and not at other intensities, which is consistent with previous ﬁndings in the VL. Architectural PA changes of the VL with increasing force production may indicate fascicle rotation or muscle bulging, and, may be more noticeable at maximum MVC compared to submaximal contractions.

• GR06 : The Examination of a Short Online Self-Led Self-Compassion Training to Increase Self-Compassion and Psychological Well-being. Tyler Forest Moore Faculty mentor: Heather Labansat Abstract: The purpose of the proposed research is to study self-compassion, and personal well-being. We are using a seven-day study that has been adapted from existing emotional expression, self-compassion and journaling techniques. Through our proposed study we will evaluate whether the seven-day study has an influence on our participants levels of self-compassion and if there is a significant difference between the pre-intervention levels and post-intervention levels of self-compassion and psychological well-being. Self-compassion has been defined by Neff (2003) as being comprised of three core areas - self-kindness, a sense of common hu- manity, and mindfulness. Research has indicated that self-compassion is positively correlated with both improved mental health and greater happiness, while also fighting against anxiety, depression and fear of failure (Kreiger et al, 2013; Neff, 2003, 2007, 2010).The present study would like to explore if a self-led self-compassion intervention online can teach the skill of self-compassion effectively. The benefits, if successful, are that this would further our reach to populations that do not have access to health care and mental health counseling and potentially help their psychological wellbeing. We propose that with the seven-day intervention we will be able to see an increase in self-compassion.

• GR07 : The Lived Experiences of 911 Dispatchers Resulting From Hearing Trau- matic Calls: A Phenomenological Study Dawson Stanley Faculty mentor: LaShondra Manning Abstract: 911 dispatchers are considered the first of the first responders. Despite existing literature concluding 911 dispatchers experience rates of traumatic exposure similarly to other emergency service personnel, there is limited research regarding this population’s specific experiences. The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of 911 dispatchers to determine the consistency of their experiences with the limited existing literature regarding trauma-related disorders among dispatchers. In this international study, a transcendental phenomenological research approach was utilized to describe the lived experiences and com- monalities of the participants. Participants were primarily recruited through social media groups specifically for 911 dispatchers. Based on the findings from this study, six prominent themes emerged: (a) health issues, (b) juxtaposed positive and negative work environment, (c) passion and pride about work, (d) cumulative stress, (e) vicarious traumatization, and (f) strained interpersonal relationships. Limitations, recommendations for future research, and implications are discussed.

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Undergraduate Student Research Poster Presentations

Monday 19th April, 3:00pm–5:00pm College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

• U01 : Impact of Soil Carbon Amendments on Prairie Restoration David M Johnston Faculty mentor: Darrel Murray Abstract: Native prairie restoration is diﬃcult for many reasons, especially on degraded sites. Sites that have been overgrazed or otherwise altered, such as conversion to non-native pas- ture grasses, often have soil characteristics that are no longer conducive to native perennial grass and forb establishment due to changes in soil structure, nutrients, and carbon. Organic amendments, such as manures, cover crops, green waste, composts, mulch, and biochar have been proposed to amend soil carbon in the soil. This research is to determine if soil carbon amendments can increase seeded native perennial grass establishment & vigor. Native grass establishment & vigor will be an indication of rapid soil carbon availability by amendments for plants. Research has been done on diﬀerent soil carbon amendments, but mostly in agricultural settings rather than wildlands. We propose conducting a small plot experiment to determine the best single or combination of soil carbon amendments for establishment of native prairie grasses and forbs.

• U02 : Characterizing Successional States of a Riparian Buffer James Marrs Faculty mentor: Darrel Murray Abstract: Riparian corridors contribute to landscape-level ecological diversity. In semi-arid rangeland they exist as fragments and persist only because of the unique hydrologic regime of the riparian zone. However, they also contribute, as well as the surrounding watershed vegetation, to the hydraulic regime which they depend on. In this project we characterized the riparian community of several ephemeral stream reaches prior to restoration activities, including juniper removal, along established riparian buffers in Palo Pinto County, Texas. Based on information from historical aerial photos, field measurements, and NRCS Ecological Site De- scriptions, land use (continuous heavy grazing & lack of fire) has significantly shifted the plant community away from its presumed historic reference community. This work is done prior to restoration activities that include juniper removal to promote community diversity. Our results indicate that in the present state, riparian corridors are dominated by Ashe juniper; however, removal of large juniper may allow for growth of other tree and shrub species present in the understory as seedlings. Supplemental planting of additional species will also be needed.

• U03 : Removal of Arsenic (V) via Plant-Based Polymers Samantha Martin Faculty mentor: Rajani Srinivasan Abstract: Arsenic can enter water through the weathering of geologic features or through an- thropogenic inputs such as agricultural and industrial run oﬀ. This research utilizes simulated

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water samples with an arsenic(v) concentration of 100ppb and well samples from Lubbock, TX which have other concentrations of anions and cations. These results are then compared against the widely utilized, but potentially environmentally threatening polyacrylamide. The methodologies employed were polymer extraction, incremental jar tests, HACH Arsenic(V) Tests, ion chromatography, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Tamarind displayed a higher percent removal and a lower dosage than the polyacrylamide. Tamarind displayed the best percent removal out of all the polymers tested including polyacrylamide. Combination trials performed indicate potential for arsenic removal. Following experiments include the treatment of Lubbock well samples with polymers to determine cation removal and repeating trials.

• U04 : Student Recruitment & Engagement Using Video Technology Tessa Morris Faculty mentor: Darrel Murray Abstract: In response to the covid-19 pandemic, remote learning has become more important. This has presented challenges with hands-on learning activities such as field methods and lab procedures. This is especially true in the natural resource sciences, where field work is common. Video can be a powerful tool for conveying ideas and information. For many, YouTube has become the first point of reference for instruction on many things from auto repair to learning statistics. In this project, we will develop methodology, create videos, and evaluate those videos within two ongoing WSES classes. Methods will be based on literature review and internet searches relating to the successful use of technology, such as social media, & short video clips, to engage students and convey messages (learning).

• U05 : Pollinator Survey Across Tarleton Campus Jennifer Tellez Faculty mentors: Adam Mitchell & Darrel Murray Abstract: Native pollinating insects have been declining at a global scale, and one of the contributing factors to this decline has been the loss of available forage in rapidly urbaniz- ing landscapes. Studies stress the importance of identifying plants commonly used in the landscaping industry that could provide adequate floral resources (i.e., pollen and nectar) in urbanized areas, requiring a need for such surveys at local community scales. We propose conducting a pollinator survey across Tarleton State University to identify the diversity of pollinating taxa associated with landscape plants on the Stephenville campus. Throughout the spring semester, the student will conduct a series of weekly surveys (10, 1-minute surveys) across campus to observe and record the number of insects visiting flowers, as well as how the composition of flower visitors changes across the season. This is part of a nation-wide citizen science project called the 2019 Oklahoma-Texas Pollinator survey. The findings of this project will help assess the overall pollinator health at Tarleton State University and provide recommendations to improve pollinator health or to compare with other college campuses.

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• U06 : Using UAV Images to Monitor Restoration Activities of a Riparian Buffer Maximiliano Flores Faculty mentor: Darrel Murray Abstract: Long-term grazing and lack of fire has altered native vegetation cover, structure, and diversity, across many watersheds and riparian areas in Texas resulting in loss to wildlife habitat as well as terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem functions. In semi-arid rangeland, riparian areas exist as fragments and persist only because of the unique hydrologic regime of the riparian zone. Many areas have experienced a significant increase in over-story and mid-story canopy cover of woody species, particularly juniper and mesquite. Riparian areas connect uplands to waterways, and are essential in storing and protecting water resources. The first step in restoring these areas is removal of encroaching woody species to free resources for other plant species and promote diversity. This project uses aerial photos, drone images, and ground-based vegetation measurements to document pre & post-juniper removal in a riparian restoration project in Palo Pinto County, Texas.

College of Education

• U07 : First-Generation College Student Experiences Sunny Armstrong Faculty mentor: Lisa Taylor-Cook Abstract: I conducted a qualitative research study on the experiences of first generation college students. I wanted to gain more insight on first generation college students and gather information that can be used to assist educators, as well as the general public along the way when it comes to these students. Participants had to be at least 18 years of age and a first generation college student. I conducted this study by creating a survey with questions over the experiences of college students. These questions covered topics such as the challenges and benefits that these students experienced, and what motivated them to attend and stay enrolled in college. I put the survey out on social media and through Canvas courses to reach students. After putting the survey out for people to take, I gathered and analyzed the data. The data concluded that most people enjoyed college, however, financial issues and the lack of support were a big factor as to why first generation college students do not attend and complete college. There are different resources that can be put in place and utilized to help these students. These resources include: support from professors and advisors, study groups, and more scholarship opportunities.

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College of Science and Technology

• U08 : Isolation and Annotation of Cluster EG Bacteriophage Fizzles Skyler Adams, Gustavo Vazquez, Gabrielle Spotz, & Faith Cox Faculty mentor: Dustin Edwards Abstract: Bacteriophages are a potential novel treatment for bacterial infections. Bacte- riophage Fizzles was directly isolated from host Microbacterium foliorum NRRL-24224 SEA incubated with a soil sample from dry soil in an ant nest in a subdivision in Stephenville, Texas. Following two rounds of serial dilution and plaque assay, Fizzles formed small, lytic plaques with turbidity. Negative-staining transmission electron microscopy showed Fizzles has Siphoviridae morphology with an approximate tail length of 150 nm and capsid diameter of 50 nm. Phage DNA was extracted with a modiﬁed zinc chloride precipitation method and then sequenced to 2719-fold genome coverage by the Pittsburgh Bacteriophage Institute using Illumina Next-Generation Sequencing to determine a double-stranded DNA genome of 62,078 base-pairs that contains direct terminal repeats of 181 base-pairs. Whole-genome sequence analysis using a suite of bioinformatics software revealed Fizzles has 68.2% G+C content and 103 protein-coding genes transcribed rightwards (48.1% of genome) and leftwards (51.9% of genome), which encodes for structural proteins, a histidine triad nucleotide binding protein, hydrolase, MazG-like nucleotide pyrophosphohydrolase, HNH endonuclease, RuvC-like resolvase, DNA primase/helicase, RecA-like DNA recombinase, and nucleotide pyrophosphohydrolase. Fizzles is a cluster EG bacteriophage and most closely related to Microbacterium phages Squash and Nike.

• U09 : Bacteriophage Jewell, Isolated from a Microbacterium foliorum Culture Tommy Butler, Matthew Castro, & Faith Cox Faculty mentor: Dustin Edwards Abstract: Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are a growing global health concern and phage therapy has the potential to combat these superbugs. Bacteriophages are able to insert their DNA into host bacteria and then replicate inside until cell lysis. Bacteriophage Jewell was collected from a water sample from a sheep barn water trough located west of Stephenville, Texas, and was directly isolated and incubated with the host Microbacterium foliorum NRRL-24224. Following two rounds of serial dilution, the isolated bacteriophage formed 3 mm lytic plaques. Negative-staining transmission electron microscopy at a titer of 5.3 × 109 pfu/mL showed that Jewell had a Siphoviridae morphology with the tail being 165 nm long and the capsid being 62.5 nm in diameter. DNA was extracted using zinc chloride precipitation. Restriction enzyme digest and gel electrophoresis of the extracted DNA using HaeIII, NspI, and SalI showed no cleavage. The phage Jewell was archived at Tarleton State University and at the Pittsburgh Bacteriophage Institute.

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• U10 : Modulation of Bacterial Host Phenotypes by Mycobacteriophage Pixie Gene Products Matt Bristerpostma, Denise Andreottii-Phillips, Yabram Basurto, Miguel Carrillo, Christopher Freeland, Shady Kuster, Chamey Suchors, Madalyn Patton, Josue Zuniga, Selina Alvarado, & Faith Cox Faculty mentors: Harold Rathburn & Dustin Edwards Abstract: Bacteriophage genes are being studied for their potential clinical use in phage therapy for antibiotic-resistant infections. With the support of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, as part of the Science Education Alliance Gene-function Exploration by a Network of Emerging Scientists (SEA-GENES), we have amplified 45 out of 100 genes of interest from Mycobacteriophage Pixie and cloned 32 genes for study in cytotoxicity and superinfection assays. Genes were amplified from Pixie high titer lysate by PCR amplification, and the products purified and ligated into a pExTra plasmid by isothermal assembly. Plasmids were cloned into 5-alpha F’Iq Escherichia coli, and the extracted DNA was electroporated into Mycobac- terium smegmatis mc2155. Cytotoxicity assays were conducted by plating serial dilutions of pExTra-containing M. smegmatis on inducer plates containing anhydrotetracycline (aTc). Cy- totoxicity was determined based on plasmid-containing M. smegmatis growth versus controls. Superinfection assays were conducted using aTc induction of M. smegmatis plasmid-containing lawns inoculated with serially diluted bacteriophages D29, Larva, and Pixie and compared to control M. smegamatis to determine the efficiency of plating. Our study revealed 4 potentially cytotoxic genes (a putative major capsid protein, uncharacterized gene downstream of the lysin A/B proteins, putative tyrosine integrase, and uncharacterized gene adjacent to the immunity repressor) and screened 18 genes for superimmunity. This information broadens the understanding of bacteriophage-bacterial interactions and can allow us to apply it to clinical use of bacteriophages.

• U11 : Isolation and Annotation of Cluster EE Bacteriophage PurpleGoat Marlee Goppert, Jessica Lee, & Faith Cox Faculty mentor: Dustin Edwards Abstract: Antibiotic-resistant bacteria continue to be a global concern, and alternative treatments, such as bacteriophage therapy, are of increased interest. Sequencing of novel bacteriophages further elucidates what is known about their evolution and application. Bacteriophage PurpleGoat was extracted from an ant pile in Stephenville, Texas, in 2020 and isolated using host bacterium Microbacterium foliorum NRRL-24224. Following two rounds of serial dilution, PurpleGoat formed slightly turbid circular plaques 3mm in diameter. PurpleGoat was then amplified and purified from webbed plates for a high volume lysate. Transmission electron microscopy identified PurpleGoat to have Siphoviral morphology with a 145nm tail and 45nm capsid. PurpleGoat is a Cluster EE bacteriophage, 17,542 bp in length with 68.7% G+C content and 9 bp overhang of 5’-CCCGCCCCA-3’. PurpleGoat has 26 predicted protein-encoding genes, including structural proteins, DNA binding proteins, an endolysin, and endonuclease. PurpleGoat was determined to be 100% identical to bacteriophage Scamander, previously isolated in a vegetable garden over 1,600 km away in Rock Hill, South Carolina, in 2017. Bac- teriophages Rowley, also found in Stephenville in 2018, and Bernadetta, found in Pensacola, Florida, in 2020, are also identical.

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• U12 : Bacteriophage Tank18, Isolated from a Microbacterium foliorum Culture Jesse Laposky, Raylon Huckaby, Tommy Butler, & Faith Cox Faculty mentor: Dustin Edwards Abstract: Bacteriophages are viruses that replicate within the domain bacteria. Tarleton State University, as part of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute SEA-PHAGES Program, has worked to collect liquid and soil samples to isolate and characterize novel bacteriophages for potential use in phage therapy for antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. Bacteriophage Tank18 was discovered in a sandy environment, at approximately one-centimeter depth, near a horse barn in Stephenville, Texas, and was directly isolated and incubated with the host Microbacterium foliorum NRRL-24224. Following four rounds of serial dilution and plaque assays 2mm lytic plaques were formed. Negative-staining transmission electron microscopy showed that Tank18 had a Siphoviridae morphology with a tail length of 115 nm and a capsid diameter of 45nm. Restriction enzyme digest identiﬁed enzymes HaeIII, NspI, and SalI as able to digest bacteriophage Tank18 DNA. The phage Tank18 was archived at the Pittsburgh Bacteriophage Institute and Tarleton State University.

• U13 : Determination of Optimum Concentration of Polysaccharides for the Re- moval of Microplastics from Houston Water Samuel Munoz Faculty mentor: Rajani Srinivasan Abstract: Plastic is among one of the most used materials around the world. Unfortunately, it is much harder to dispose of it than it is to make it, leading to a variety of problems; one of the biggest problems, that lacks the appropriate attention, is microplastics (plastics smaller than 5mm). Current methods to remove these plastics involve dangerous, expensive, toxic, and carcinogenic chemicals used with water that is ultimately released back into the natural habitat, further damaging the ecosystem. These chemicals are used because of their ability to flocculate the microplastics. The buildup of microplastics causes an increase in weight, allowing gravity to pull them down to the bottom where they are removed from the water. For- tunately, there is a potential alternative to these chemicals that originate from certain plants in the form of a polysaccharide. The polysaccharides is extracted from these specific plants, which have similar flocculation abilities as those of the harmful chemical currently used, but the difference is that the polysaccharides are easily manufactured, biodegradable, nontoxic, and very inexpensive. The purpose of our research is to determine the optimum concentration of polysaccharides required for the removal of microplastics from water. We are using water samples retrieved from Houston as our water with microplastics and specifically focusing on Okra and Fenugreek polysaccharides as the flocculating agent. The polysaccharides are mixed with the Houston water and left alone, taking samples at 0, 5, 15, 30, and 60 minutes to see where flocculation is most effective. The retrieved samples are placed in a hemocytometer and then the microplastics are counted at 40X. The data gathered from these results will be used to analyze and determine the optimal concentration of polysaccharides required for a certain volume of microplastic infested water.

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• U14 : Smart Mirror Alejandro Rivas Faculty mentors: Denise Martinez & Haitham Abu Ghazaleh Abstract: The smart mirror project will help us better understand how a computer can understand what humans say to it. Speech recognition plays a huge role by breaking up parts of the word and trying to ﬁgure out what phoneme is being said and then it would add each phoneme together to output a word. Siri utilizes speech recognition to try to understand what the user is trying to say. Siri is pretty good at understanding what is being said to it but it can not understand if you start talking in a diﬀerent language from what you have it set to in the settings. It does not detect what is being said in all languages all the time. If you have Siri set to English it will only understand what is being said in English and not in Spanish. The reason for this is because of accents and the way each word is phrased, and Siri can be confused what word was said if it was in English or Spanish and then it can change the entire result of what was asked. This project will go into detail about the problems with speech recognition and ways they can be solved.

• U15 : Non-Toxic Plant-Based Drug Delivery System for Chemotherapy Treat- ment Gustavo Vazquez, Alyssa Kohler, & Miguel Carrillo Faculty mentors: Rajani Srinivasan & Dustin Edwards Abstract: Chemotherapeutic drugs that are used to treat cancer require a delivery system to cross cell membranes, but the current delivery systems display high levels of cytotoxicity. Therefore, it is foremost to develop a system that can be effective and non-toxic that can indicate a regulation of both the location and the rate at which the drug is released. Natural biological polysaccharides are highly more biodegradable and less toxic. Two polymers were obtained for analysis of degradation with the chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin. Fenugreek was obtained as a seed and Okra was obtained fresh and cut into inch rounds. Doxorubicin standard preparation and measurement was completed from a primary solution by weighing 0.0500 grams of Doxorubicin and diluting it with 25 mL of RO DI water giving a concentration of 0.0020g/ml. A series of six standards were prepared in 10 mL volumetric flask from the primary standard. The concentration and absorbance of the six standards were measured and plotted in a Beer’s Law Plot to indicate the coefficient of the fitted regression line. Two methods of grafting doxorubicin to polymers were completed. Approximately 0.0640 grams of polymer and 0.0160 of doxorubicin were weighted and diluted to 100 mL using RO DI water. The samples were vortexed at 1700 rpm for 24 hours and microwave in a water for bath for one minute at fifteen seconds intervals to create bonds between the polymer and drug. The solution was centrifuge at 4000 rpm for 5 minutes and left out to air dry. A similar method was complete using 0.0320 grams of potassium persulfate for comparison. Absorbance reading using a Spectronic Spectrophotometer 20 D+ for both methods is currently performed for twenty days. The concentration and release percent will be determined from the Beer’s Law Plot fitted regression line.

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• U16 : Amplification and Cloning of Mycobacteriophage Pixie Genes Benjamin Olivo, Ashley Suris, Philipp Orbe, Abigail Ballard, Yabram Basurto, Jocelyn Gar- cia, Idalia Gonzalez, Ryan Huckaby, Jill Johnson, Love Leigh Sansom, Angel Thomas, Eric Tovar, Selina Alvarado, & Faith Cox Faculty mentors: Harold Rathburn & Dustin Edwards Abstract: Certain strains of bacteria have evolved to be resistant to antibiotics. Bacterio- phages are viruses that infect and replicate in bacteria. Many proteins within bacteriophage genomes remain uncharacterized and their functions are unknown. Some of the proteins that are produced by these bacteriophages have cytotoxic effects and can be used as an alternative treatment for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. As part of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute Science Education Alliance Gene-function Exploration by a Network of Emerging Scientists (SEA-GENES) program, we are amplifying and cloning genes from bacteriophage Pixie, cluster K3, to determine their role in bacteriophage replication. Previously, the lab PCR-amplified 45 out of 100 genes and cloned 32 genes of those genes into expression plasmids for study in cytotoxicity and superinfection phenotype assays. We have continued to build the plasmid library by PCR-amplifying an additional 39 genes. Successful gene amplification was confirmed by agarose gel electrophoresis of the PCR products and verification of the correct predicted size. The PCR products were then purified by column purification or gel extraction and the concentration of insert determined. The additional 39 genes will be ligated into a pExTra plasmid and transformed into 5-alpha F’ Iq Escherichia coli, a strain of E. coli optimized for the replication of plasmids containing potentially toxic genes. Purified plasmids will be electroporated into Mycobacterium smegmatis mc2155 for cytotoxicity and superinfection assays.

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Undergraduate Student Oral Presentations

Wednesday 21st April, 11:00am–12:00pm & 1:00pm–5:00pm

Time Slot Presentation Title UR01 : A Comprehensive Study of Parasites of the Texas State Bison Herd: 11:00am–11:20am Part 2 11:20am–11:40am UR02 : Removal of E. coli coliform bacteria using Polysaccharides Biopolymers 11:40am–12:00pm UR03 : Social Networking among Japanese Elders UR04 : Normobaric intermittent hypoxic training protects the microglia by 1:00pm–1:20pm activating melatonin signaling pathway 1:20pm–1:40pm UR05 : Food Insecurity in Rural Areas 1:40pm–2:00pm UR06 : Detection of Avian Retroviruses UR07 : Modeling a priori Unknown Environments: Place Recognition with 2:00pm–2:20pm Optical Flow Fingerprints 2:20pm–2:40pm UR08 : The Diversity of Posthodiplostomum Classified Through COI and ITS 2:40pm–3:00pm UR09 : A population model of Pieris Brassicae using differential equation 3:00pm–3:20pm UR10 : Binary Star Mass Transfer Simulations using Nvidia GPU’s 3:20pm–3:40pm UR11 : Parallel Algorithms for Background Subtraction 3:40pm–4:00pm UR12 : Understanding Stock Market Behavior of Secondary Offerings UR13 : Dynamics of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Infection Rates: A Mathe- 4:00pm–4:20pm matical Approach 4:20pm–4:40pm UR14 : Isolation and Annotation of Cluster EB Bacteriophage IndyLu

College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

• UR01: A Comprehensive Study of Parasites of the Texas State Bison Herd: Part 2 SaraBeth Boggan & Donald Beard Faculty mentors: Kristin Herrmann & Heather Mathewson Abstract: Parasites can have a significant effect on the typical growth, weight gain, and milk production of any species. Therefore, infections are often managed with common an- tihelminthics. The purpose of this study is to provide Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) with recommendations for treatment of parasites in the Texas State Bison herd at Caprock Canyons State Park (CCSP), Briscoe County, Texas. Fecal samples were collected during examination of individuals in January 2020 and February 2021. Samples were processed for intestinal parasites using a modified McMaster’s fecal float protocol. Parasite prevalence and load were calculated. Part 1 of this study, reported baseline information prior to treatment of some of the individuals by age class. We observed 4 different parasite types: Coccidia, Moniezia, Strongyloides, and Strongylid-type. Following sampling in 2020, TPWD treated

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half of the sampled bison (n = 50) with Cydectine (moxidectine, de-wormer for parasites) leaving the remaining half untreated. We will report the diﬀerences in parasite prevalence and load between treated and untreated bison after one year. TPWD biologists base management plans on restoring native prairies to preserve the historic herd. To improve management, we will provide TPWD with an assessment of eﬀectiveness of antihelminthic treatment by age group.

• UR02 : Removal of E. coli coliform bacteria using Polysaccharides Biopolymers. Raymond Brown Faculty mentor: Rajani Srinivasan Abstract: Contamination of surface water, groundwater sources and the environment are an ever-growing issue. Effecting both public health and the environment the impact of nu- trient, bacterial as well as other contaminants. This research will be focused on the capture of Escherichia coli (E. coli) coliform bacteria. Contamination sources include agricultural fecal matter runoff, erosion, human wastewater/sludge, and various industrial practices. The current treatment of wastewater methods currently includes flocculation techniques with synthetic based polymers to attach to contaminant/pollutant and coagulant causing a sink and then capture effect, along with antibiotic treatment methods and several technical processes such as Reverse Osmoses. However, even with current treatment methods bacteria and antibiotic residue contamination still make their way into the environment. Some of the synthetic polymers, water additives, antibiotics used are also potentially hazardous in the environment and pose devastating threats to the ecological systems this contaminated water/sludge come in contact with. Evolving methods are being developed, along with a large push to move away from synthetic products containing hazardous chemicals, toward bio-friendly or green means for solving these contaminant issues. The research objective proposed for this study was the use of plant-based polysaccharide polymers in the place of synthetic polymers using similar water treatment tests (Jar method.) The use of plant derived polysaccharides in flocculation using jar test method has shown some promising results in the coagulation of E. coli in river water. Using multiple doses, various kinds of polysaccharide polymers, and water sampled from various nearby rivers, and dairy lagoons within two hours prior to conducting experiments. This is to insure there are living E. coli coliforms present, that are viable and appear for results. A control sample and a sample (or multiple) with premixed polysaccharide polymer and flocculated for 60 seconds at 100RPM, then for 300 seconds at 50RPM in efforts to find the most adequate proportion of polymer for the removal of E. coli is, in highest percent capture. Testing samples against a standard at times intervals of 5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, and 60 minutes after the flocculation; to determine the proper timeframe the polysaccharide needs to coagulate the bacteria, and at which time frame has best percent capture. We are beginning to see results around 2g/100ml polymer/D.I. water mixture, using psyllium seed husk, okra fruit hash and fenugreek hush polymer derivatives. Best results have been in the 15-30-minute timeframe thus far. For identification processes of the E. coli specimen the EPA 1603 modified mTEC agar procedure will be utilized, as well as a new emerging method using photo spectrometry at a 600-nanometer wavelength rage for single day results. In the study the 600nm range should help in allowing us to quantify the actual number of coliform bacteria, with emphasis on E. coli coliforms, without killing the specimen directly. Through the study

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the Spectrophotometric method with be examined against the certiﬁed EPA mTEC method to ensure validity. This research is being conducted through the C.O.S.T. program under the supervision of Dr. R. Srinivasan, associate professor Tarleton Chemistry department during the time of this presentation.

College of Liberal and Fine Arts

• UR03 : Social Networking among Japanese Elders Kaitlynn Burress Faculty mentors: Atsuko Kawakami & Derek Lehman Abstract: The purpose of this study is to identify some of the predictors of social network formation with a focus on everyday behaviors such as greeting neighbors, attitudes about elder care, civic involvement, and hobby or social group membership. Using data from the 2010 and 2012 waves of the Japanese General Social Survey, we found that factors in which individuals have more control over are significantly associated with the formation of social networks whereas factors that individuals have little to no control over are less likely to affect network formation. Specifically, elderly individuals who greet their neighbors and those who view elder care as an individual’s or family’s responsibility are more likely to have larger social networks. Likewise, civic engagement and participation in neighborhood associations are also significantly associated with forming social networks. Surprisingly, our analysis revealed that participating in hobby groups, length of residency in a community, and other control variables such as gender, income, and education are not significantly associated with forming social networks. Our findings indicate that the key components to building strong social networks are found within mundane daily activities. We conclude with several suggestions for how the elderly and communities can build elders’ social networks and thereby improve well-being.

College of Health Sciences and Human Services

• UR04 : Normobaric intermittent hypoxic training protects the microglia by activating melatonin signaling pathway Andrew Kim Faculty mentor: Myoung-gwi Ryou Abstract: Ischemic stroke is the leading cause of adult disability and the 4th cause of death in the US. However, there is only one FDA-approved treatment available. It is recombinant tissue plasminogen activator, known as rtPA. Because its therapeutic window is only 4.5 hours after onset of ischemic stroke, not many patient take advantage of rtPA treatment. Recently, Dr.Ryou’s laboratory demonstrated that normobaric intermittent hypoxic training protect the microglia and regulate the polarization of microglia in the in vitro ischemic stoke model. In this presentation, a possible mechanism how normobaric intermittent hypoxic training regulates the polarization of microglia.

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• UR05 : Food Insecurity in Rural Areas Callie Ann Carey, Kamryn Vickers, Allison Sexton, & Danialle Nicolls Faculty mentor: Ebony Lang Abstract: Student researchers define rural communities as an open area of land with a small number of homes or other buildings and a small population. The research focuses on the question of to what extent people in rural communities’ experience food insecurity. Previous research has indicated that rural communities lack food resources due to travel distance from urban areas. The student researchers identified three themes prevalent within the literature review relating to the proposed research question. Researchers conducted a random sampling of 100 participants living in rural communities to assess the prevalence of food insecurity and discuss possible solutions to food insecurity. The research aims are to increase overall awareness of food insecurity in rural communities. Along with increasing awareness, the student researchers intend to analyze possible contributing factors of rural food insecurity, such as lack of transportation, lack of access, or lack of knowledge about local services. The student researchers also will explore the prevalence of food insecurity within specific age groups.

College of Science and Technology

• UR06 : Detection of Avian Retroviruses Faith Cox Faculty mentor: Dustin Edwards Abstract: Reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) an immunosuppressive avian retrovirus that in- fects the B cells of Galliformes, Passeriformes, and Anseriformes. Modern REV testing utilizes a duplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction technique (qPCR) developed by the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. We modified this technique to a triplex TaqMan qPCR assay to test simultaneously for REV and an emerging avian retrovirus, lymphoprolif- erative disease virus (LPDV). LPDV has not yet been tested for in Texas but has been found in neighboring states. We designed an amplification for the pan-avian constitutive GAPDH gene as a cDNA extraction control, and the REV Env and LPDV Env genes to test for viral infection. Primers and hydrolysis probes were redesigned using software to determine targeted conserved regions of the DNA and to minimize cross-reactivity and channel cross-talk by using Cy5, FAM, and HEX fluorophores. Probes have double non-fluorescent quenchers to reduce false positives. Target duplexed DNA sequences were synthesized to act as positive amplification controls and serially diluted to known concentrations to act as a standard curve ranging in 1 × 108 to 1 × 101 molecules/µL to quantify proviral DNA in blood samples. Reaction conditions and primer-probe concentrations were optimized and reactions performed in triplicate.

• UR07: Modeling a priori Unknown Environments: Place Recognition with Optical Flow Fingerprints Zach Mueller Faculty mentor: Sotirios Diamantas Abstract: In this research we present a novel method for place recognition that relies on optical ﬂow ﬁngerprints of features. We make no assumptions about the properties of features or the environment such as color, shape, and size, as we approach the problem parsimoniously

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with a single camera mounted on a robot. In the training phase of our algorithm an accurate camera model is utilized to model and simulate the optical flow vector magnitudes with respect to velocity and distance to features. A lognormal distribution function, that is the result of this observation, is used as an input during the testing phase that is taking place with real sensors and features extracted using Lucas-Kanade optical flow algorithm. With this approach we have managed to bridge the gap between simulation and real-world environments by transferring the output of simulated training data sets to real testing environments. In addition, our method is highly adaptable to different types of sensors and environments.

• UR08 : The Diversity of Posthodiplostomum Classified Through COI and ITS Josue Zuniga Faculty mentors: Kristen Herrmann & Isabel Blasco-Costa Abstract: Posthlodiplostomum is a trematode genus that possesses a 3-host life cycle and is most frequently encountered in second intermediate hosts—primarily freshwater fish. Given how widespread and common Posthodiplostomum infections are within freshwater fishes, it is important to understand the infection dynamics of this genus. However, trematode larvae are difficult to identify at the species or even genus level, further exacerbated by a phenomenon known as cryptic diversity, in which species share morphological characteristics but differ molecularly. The objective of this study was to determine the diversity of Posthodiplostomum larva from various fish species in Texas. We obtained specimens from four fish species and sequenced two molecular markers, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of rDNA and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase 1 gene (COI). Both Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian analyses were conducted, using RAxML and MrBayes, respectively. Our results demonstrate a host specific pattern of association, corroborating host-specificity reported by studies in north- ern North America. Further, larvae collected from Gambusia affinis fall within a single lineage, distinct from other species in the Posthodiplostomum-Ornithodiplostomum clade. Additional phylogenetic analysis of the nuclear 28S gene will allow us to determine if larvae found in G. affinis represent a distinct lineage of Posthodiplostomum.

• UR09 : A population model of Pieris Brassicae using differential equation Dashon Mitchell Faculty mentor: Christopher Mitchell Abstract: Our project, a population model of Pieris Brassicae using differential equation, de- scribes the situation of the butterfly species Pieris brassicae, the large cabbage white butterfly, which uses chemical signals to attract mates. This, however, presents a new problem for the females as the chemical aphrodisiac can attract too many males and make it difficult for her to lay her eggs in a secure locale. To combat this, males of the species emit an anti-aphrodisiac composed of methyl salicylate and indole which deters other males from approaching the mated female. The optimal solution for these butterflies is one in which a steady population of eggs are laid to replenish the butterfly population while reducing the amount of eggs lost to wasps. The best solution for the wasps, however, is one in which a balance is struck between the amount of anti-aphrodisiac used and the growing population of the butterflies. In order to find the equilibrium between these two solution where both can coexist without driving the other to extinction we created a system on differential equation to model the situation. We first started with creating a system of equations to model the butterfly population alone

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so we could get an accurate representation of the changes to their population due to their own parameters. The system had 4 equations, one for the egg population, one for the males, one for the unmated females and one for the mated females. We determined most of the parameter values from research leaving only the aphrodisiac and anti-aphrodisiac concentration to find as well as their half saturation constant. After finishing this system we plan to also do a similar thing with the wasp population and model these two systems side by side to find the amount of anti-aphrodisiac necessary to maintain coexistence between these two species.

• UR10 : Binary Star Mass Transfer Simulations using Nvidia GPU’s Gavin McIntosh, Avery Campbell, Clayton Tobin, & Bradley Deauman Faculty mentor: Bryant Wyatt Abstract: Over 70% of the stars in our universe are binary systems, two stars that orbit around a common center of mass. The masses of the individual stars can be found using Newton’s and Kepler’s Laws. This allows astronomers to use these systems as astrophysical laboratories to study the properties and processes of stars and galaxies. The mass transfer between contact star system is diﬃcult to observe, and not deeply understood. In this study we simulate the mass transfer between binary star systems to help gain a deeper understanding of this process. We use N-body techniques coupled with the massively parallel architecture of NVIDIA GPUs to create these simulations. We have been successful in capturing much of the bulk characteristics of observed mass transfer events in the simulations presented here.

• UR11 : Parallel Algorithms for Background Subtraction Ethan Reaves Faculty mentor: Sotirios Diamantas Abstract: Providing clear information to a computer can make all the diﬀerence when com- piling a clear image for Computer Vision applications, so a suitable background subtraction method can be tricky to choose. Previous attempts are still widely used to construct background subtraction; however, the time to compile them can vary greatly. The option we provide is a Parallel Log-Normal Distribution method which can provide a real-time display while also providing a clear image. The method proposed uses a log-normal distribution system for each pixel to determine the background of every frame from the camera by running the statistics on an NVIDIA Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), which provides a decrease in delay as the images are processed up to 35.58 TeraFlops per second. This method could change how we think about and operate self-driving vehicles, drones, and some military equipment by providing a more precise image to identify moving objects from the foreground.

• UR12 : Understanding Stock Market Behavior of Secondary Offerings Avery Campbell Faculty mentor: Haitham Abu Ghazaleh Abstract: The purpose of this study is to use the tools of data analysis and mining to understand the natural behaviors the stock market has on secondary offerings. The study will display not only the tools and power of data but to ensure accuracy of secondary common stock offering research on short-term effects. The qualitative analysis will provide a deeper

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understanding of market reactions to diﬀerent sectors of industry and time periods. The study will be using data pulled and scraped from the Nasdaq, Fidelity Investments, and Google Fi- nance to be formulated into a clear and re-insured consensus. This research will help broaden an understanding of stock market behaviors for educational purposes.

• UR13 : Dynamics of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Infection Rates: A Mathemat- ical Approach Aurod Ounsinegad Faculty mentor: Christopher Mitchell Abstract: The Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV) is an erratic and deadly neurolog- ical disease that spans across the northeastern coast of the United States. To determine the rate at which the virus is spread between the Black-Tailed Mosquito (Culiseta melanura) and select avian species we began by analyzing the migration patterns of both the mosquito and the avian species. It was found that certain species of avians shared similar, or even identical, flight patterns with the Black-Tailed Mosquito. Through this research, we develop and analyze a system of Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) to gain insight into how and when transmission of the virus to avians is at its highest. We incorporate a host stage-structured model where the avian host group is split into two categories, adults and young-of-the-year birds (YOY). Using this we explored the extent to which fluctuations occurred in transmission rates according to host/vector abundances, mosquito biting rate, and type of host. We evaluate the hypothesis that YOY avians are more readily exposed to the mosquito vector as they lack a defense mechanism, unlike their adult counterpart using the compartmental model.

• UR14 : Isolation and Annotation of Cluster EB Bacteriophage IndyLu Ashley Suris Faculty mentor: Dustin Edwards Abstract: With the growing concern surrounding antibiotic resistance, there is increased interest in bacteriophage-based therapies as an alternative treatment strategy. Bacteriophage IndyLu was directly isolated from a soil sample taken from a dry area near a horse barn in Stephenville, Texas, and incubated in host Microbacterium foliorum NRRL-24224 SEA. Fol- lowing two rounds of serial dilutions and plaque assays with a soft agar overlay, IndyLu formed small, defined lytic plaques less than 1cm in diameter. Negative-staining transmission electron microscopy revealed Siphoviridae morphology with an approximate tail length of 140 nm and capsid diameter of 60 nm. Phage DNA was extracted with a modified zinc chloride precipitation method and sequenced to 1156- fold genome coverage by the Pittsburgh Bacteriophage Institute using Illumina Next Generation Sequencing. A double-stranded DNA genome of 41,958 base-pairs with a 10 base 3’ sticky overhang (ACTCCCGACA) was determined, making IndyLu the sixth largest member of cluster EB, with an average G+C content of 66.2% for the cluster, and most closely related to Microbacterium phages Didgeridoo (96% coverage) and Lahqtemish (95%). Whole-genome sequence analysis using PECAAN, PhagesDB, NCBI BLASTn and BLASTp, HHPRED, and TmHmm revealed 72 protein-coding genes transcribed rightwards (94.5% of genome) and leftwards (5.6% of genome). Putative genes include structural proteins, a HNH endonuclease, Holliday junction resolvase, and Cas4 family exonuclease have already been identified.

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Teaching Excellence Presentations

Thursday 22nd April, 8:00am–11:00am

Time Slot Presentation Title 8:00am–8:20am T01 : What is George Doing in his Drafting classes 8:20am–8:40am T02 : Project-Based Design Course in Civil Engineering 8:40am–9:00am T03 : Trying New Things: Classroom Impact of a Departmental Book Study T04 : Teaching with Engaging Activities (TEA) and a Book Study: A Depart- 9:00am–9:20am mental Model for Faculty Development T05 : Virtually Buddying Up to Promote Social Support and Engagement for 9:20am–9:40am Students 9:40am–10:00am T06 : Virtual Scavenger Hunts: A Tool to Engage Online Learners 10:00am–10:20am T07 : We Belong: Building Community in Your Hyﬂex Classroom T08 : Engaging Students in a Virtual World: Tips and Tricks for Synchronous 10:20am–10:40am and Asynchronous Instruction T09 : How to Utilize the Canvas Calendar for Virtual Oﬃce Hours to Increase 10:40am–11:00am Student Engagement

College of Science and Technology

• T01 : What is George Doing in his Drafting classes George Mollick Abstract: Just what is George Doing in his Drafting classes... Tune in to ﬁnd out.

• T02 : Project-Based Design Course in Civil Engineering Fei Wang Abstract: Design courses in civil engineering are the last step for students to get into the real world. We should fully weapon the students before they graduate. However, there is a gap between the classroom and the real world is the homework problems are far away from the real design work. To bridge this gap, I was motivated by one of my former students to develop this so-called “Project-Based Design Course” in which students are assigned with real design projects to practice their knowledge from the classroom. From the feedback from our graduates and their employers, this method is very eﬀective to bridge the gap.

• T03 : Trying New Things: Classroom Impact of a Departmental Book Study Eileen Faulkenberry, Courtney Holland, Beth Riggs, & Michael Warren Abstract: In this session, faculty members from the Department of Mathematics will share some of the new classroom strategies they have implemented in their courses during the Spring

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2021 semester during HyFlex. The implementation stems from their participation in a departmental book study for professional development that started in January 2021.

• T04 : Teaching with Engaging Activities (TEA) and a Book Study: A Depart- mental Model for Faculty Development Eileen Faulkenberry & Beth Riggs Abstract: In this session, we will share how the Department of Mathematics is providing professional development for our faculty members at a departmental level. We will describe the process and how it has evolved over the last few semesters. In addition, we will describe the new component for the Spring 2021 semester - a departmental book study.

College of Health Sciences and Human Services

• T05 : Virtually Buddying Up to Promote Social Support and Engagement for Students Veronica Molina Abstract: The presentation provides an overview of how impactful a buddy system within online courses can help support student’s engagement. Buddy systems have been used in a variety of settings to help ease anxiety for new systems or provide mentorship. With the impact of Covid-19 came a transition of classes from in-person to online, social distancing, and isolation that has taken a toll on the mental health of many students across the campus and disciplines. With the concern for student’s well-being and engagement, a buddy system was developed in the onset of the course to help graduate students support each other through these times. Often students who know each other will group together, but this virtual buddy system helped many students who did not have connections in the classroom. Students reported they appreciate hearing from their virtual buddy, helped them on their tough days, and it felt like someone else knew what they were going through. Virtually any course can add a buddy system to help students make positive connections to stay engaged in the course work. The following presentation will provide an overview of how the virtual buddy system was implemented and can easily be implemented in an online course.

• T06 : Virtual Scavenger Hunts: A Tool to Engage Online Learners Veronica Molina Abstract: The following presentation is focused on supporting online teaching with an interactive tool. Scavenger hunts are not just for fun, they can be used for a variety of activities, even to reinforce learning in the classroom. Scavenger hunts can be used in creative ways to engage adult learners with different learning styles. After Covid-19, in-person classes were transitioned to an online delivery. Normally, I would cover a three-hour presentation for the students on the first day to discuss a variety of topics to prepare them for their internships. However, there was a vast amount of information I also needed to include, but did not want the students to suffer from zoom fatigue. Therefore, I created a virtual scavenger hunt to supplement their learning after they attended their orientation. The focus of the virtual scavenger hunt was on connecting students to campus resources. This virtual scavenger hunt can

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be used in other disciplines to engage students early in the classroom or as an assignment to develop certain skills. It could be focused on research skills, writing skills, or as I have noted, connecting them to campus resources. The presentation provides an overview for the development of the virtual scavenger hunt.

• T07 : We Belong: Building Community in Your Hyﬂex Classroom Felicia Murray Abstract: Using the Community of Inquiry model as a framework, participants will gain strategies that can be incorporated into the hyﬂex classroom to increase students’ sense of belonging and build a supportive community.

College of Education

• T08 : Engaging Students in a Virtual World: Tips and Tricks for Synchronous and Asynchronous Instruction Erin Pearce Abstract: This presentation includes tips for student engagement for synchronous and asynchronous virtual learning. Topics include zoom norms, online activities, breakout rooms, Canvas organization, and discussion boards.

College of Business

• T09 : How to Utilize the Canvas Calendar for Virtual Office Hours to Increase Student Engagement Bryn Brown & Joanna Shaw Abstract: The pandemic has certainly brought new challenges to higher education! Some of these include adjusted teaching practices and content delivery methods. Connecting and engaging with students is more important than ever to their academic success. However, over time many disciplines have witnessed a decrease in the number of students utilizing faculty office hours. This trend is perhaps a cumulation of multiples reasons related to students currently not spending the same amount of time on campus compared to the past. Students are often working more than one job, caring for family, or serving as a caregiver. Also, online course offerings have increased and are a popular choice. During this shift in higher education based on current events and student desires, the need for instructor-student interaction has not changed. Students still need opportunities for this engagement. Studies have shown that instructor-student engagement is extremely beneficial in retention, meeting course objectives, and successful course completion. Virtual office hours are one way to maintain this engagement. But what is the best way to encourage use of virtual office hours? One best practice is to create appointments for student sign-up. This presentation discusses virtual office hours and demonstrates a complete “how-to” create appointments within Canvas.

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Community Engagement & Service Learning (CESL) Presentations

Friday 23rd April, 9:00am–12:00pm

Time Slot Presentation Title C01 : Training the Next Generation of Limnologists: a Call to Include Service 9:00am–9:30am Learning and Engaged Scholarship in Field Courses 9:30am–10:00am C02 : Using GivePulse to Manage Service Learning Throughout the Year C03 : Development of Online Physical Education Units as a Service-Learning 10:00am–10:30am Project: A Response to Pedagogical Barriers as a Result of COVID-19 10:30am–11:00am C04 : A University-Public School Partnership: A Scholar-Practitioner Model 11:00am–11:30am C05 : Emerging Leadership Program for Principals, 2018–2021 C06 : Public Health and Experiential Learning: How Do They Go Hand in 11:30am–12:00pm Hand?

College of Science and Technology

• C01 : Training the Next Generation of Limnologists: a Call to Include Service Learning and Engaged Scholarship in Field Courses Victoria Chraibi Abstract: Professional “soft skills” are not an inherent focus of scientific courses, so there is a need to develop additional training embedded in current content to better prepare the next generation of field biologists for professional success. Service learning, in which students provide service to a community partner through lab and field activities, helps students connect classroom concepts to the social importance and application of what they are learning. This talk presents an example of service learning in a limnology class regarding pond management and discusses tips and pitfalls of the approach. Overall, service learning and engaged scholarship require planning, communication, and evaluation to be effective. Students must understand the purpose and expectations of the service learning approach and reflect upon the process. This reflection can be assessed using research methods as engaged scholarship. Ultimately, the key to the success of a service learning program is to ensure reciprocal benefit with the community partner by communication on how the class project can fulfill a present need for the partner. Service learning opens possibilities for collaboration with scientific orga- nizations, citizen scientist groups, and non-scientific partners to the reciprocal benefit of all, while engaged scholarship in association offers novel research avenues.

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Center for Educational Excellence

• C02 : Using GivePulse to Manage Service Learning Throughout the Year Sharon Bowers, Misty Smith, Ed Dittfurth, Karley Goen, Kelsey McEntyre, Lindsey Marek, Callie Price, & Rajesh Vuddandam Abstract: This workshop will examine how GivePulse can be used in the facilitation of service learning opportunities at Tarleton. Participants will learn how to: identify and/or develop service learning opportunities; promote with students in classes, programs, and colleges; track participation; and evaluate the impact of the experience on students. Participants will also have an opportunity to share their questions and suggestions for utilizing GivePulse at Tar- leton.

College of Education

• C03 : Development of Online Physical Education Units as a Service-Learning Project: A Response to Pedagogical Barriers as a Result of COVID-19 Kelsey McEntyre & Brianna Hatcher Abstract: The presentation will focus on a service-learning project implemented during the 2020-2021 academic year. The service-learning project involves the creation of online physical education units through the Personalized System for Instruction model. The project was a result of the need for practical experience for pre-service physical educators and the limited ﬁeld experience options due to COVID-19.

• C04 : A University-Public School Partnership: A Scholar-Practitioner Model Don Beach, James McSwain, Jesse Brock, & Juanita Reyes Abstract: Professional development of educational leadership teams at the K-12 level is a complex process. In fact, scholars have noted that the process of professional development generally involves four components: a) Cognitive and emotional process; b) Conflict resulting from beliefs and change; c) Schools’ climate and culture; and d) Needs and goals of stakeholders. Despite being a complex process, there has been little effort at addressing the theory-practice gap within the context of campus leadership professional development. In 2011, a partnership was created between Houston ISD and Tarleton State University’s Department of Educational Leadership & Technology (EDLT). Houston ISD recognized that their professional development efforts needed theoretical and external guidance. TSU’s EDLT faculty and doctoral program specialized in educational leadership, including techniques, skills, and methods. This presentation will describe the scholar-practitioner model of professional development designed from the partnership, reciprocal benefits from the partnership, as well as the need for Tarleton State University to create similar relationships as the one between Houston ISD and the Department of Educational Leadership & Technology.

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• C05 : Emerging Leadership Program for Principals, 2018–2021 Don Beach, Jesse Brock, & Phillis Bunch Abstract: For the past three years, a university-public school partnership designed to assess emerging principal leaders has existed between Houston ISD West Area and Tarleton State University’s Department of Educational Leadership & Technology. This program can be cate- gorized into three main functions: a) pre-assessment training activities; b) assessments; and c) reports. This presentation will describe the leadership program, including going into detail on how the program was created in 2018. The poster will also detail the goals of the leadership evaluations and assessments, as well as the overall beneﬁts of the reports for the emerging educational leaders and Houston ISD staﬀ.

College of Health Sciences and Human Services

• C06 : Public Health and Experiential Learning: How Do They Go Hand in Hand? Jasmine Luttrell & Subi Gandhi Abstract: A Matter of Balance is an evidence-based fall prevention program that reﬂects the partnership among Tarleton Public Health, Texas Health Resources, and the North Central Texas Area Agency on Aging. The goal of the AMOB program is to empower and support senior adults by presenting, discussing, and implementing fall prevention curriculum in a group context. By incorporating AMOB training into Dr. Gandhi’s Health Promotion course, this service-learning project extended beyond the senior population as it provided prospective public health educators like myself hands-on experience with a number of public health competencies, ranging from program planning and execution to community health education. Join Dr. Gandhi and myself as we share my experience through this exceptional opportunity to serve a vulnerable population through interactive health promotion.

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Applied & Experiential Learning Presentations

Friday 23rd April, 1:00pm–3:00pm

Time Slot Presentation Title A01 : Lessons Learned While Taking Theory from the Books to Practice in the 1:00pm–1:30pm Classroom 1:30pm–2:00pm A02 : Service Learning Before and During a Pandemic 2:00pm–2:30pm A03 : Construction details in Residential and Commercial Building A04 : Using Portfolium as an experiential assessment tool: Creating an equity- 2:30pm–3:00pm focused, holistic, and integrative assessment approach to student learning outcomes

College of Education

• A01 : Lessons Learned While Taking Theory from the Books to Practice in the Classroom Crystal Rose, Kameryn Griﬃth, Harley Downey, Kami Rowan, & Taylor Thompson Abstract: Tarleton State University’s Curriculum and Instruction Department is piloting a year long residency with a grant provided by US PREP where Tarleton Teacher Residents co-teach a full year with a Cooperating Teacher while ﬁnishing courses during their senior year while under the care, mentoring, support, and supervision of a Cooperating Teacher and Site Coordinator. Tarleton Teacher Residents receive both formative, on the spot feedback, as well as formal observation feedback around the TTESS rubric throughout 20 visits to their classrooms. They will present, along with their Site Coordinator Dr. Crystal Rose, about their experiences implementing theory learned throughout their coursework as well as lessons learned this year from co-teaching in a real classroom with actual students every day.

• A02 : Service Learning Before and During a Pandemic Lisa Taylor Cook Abstract: Students with a Child & Family Studies course were required to complete field experience hours in placements to extend course content and encourage hands on applications in face to face environments. Service learning was initially started in Fall 2019 to extend these required field experiences. The service learning requirement continued during public health changes implemented due to COVID. The need for service to parents, children and programs continued during COVID and the service methods switched to virtual service. Data on student views of the benefits of service learning to extended the course content was collected and will be presented and discussed. Based on COVID and necessary distancing requirements, unique groups of student participants were created. The differences and similarities between group data from Fall 2019 (pre COVID) through Fall 2020 (during COVID) will be presented.

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College of Science and Technology

• A03 : Construction details in Residential and Commercial Building Poorya Hajyalikhani & Timothy Matthews Abstract: We have many hands-on course in construction and management. In these courses we teach students how to use the construction tools and they construct the part of the residential and commercial building in the wall. Also, learn about the MEP in the building as well.

College of Health Sciences and Human Services

• A04 : Using Portfolium as an experiential assessment tool: Creating an equity- focused, holistic, and integrative assessment approach to student learning outcomes Tiffany Wigington, Misty Smith, & Justin Carrell Abstract: This workshop will present the use of Portfolium (Instructure, 2020) as an experiential tool used to facilitate students’ ability to demonstrate, and articulate, the integration of acquired knowledge, skills, and values with accumulated experiences, in tandem with the transformational shift in cognitive and affective processes. Working in collaboration with ITS, we employed the capabilities of Portfolium to create specific pathways, and milestones aligned with our competency-driven curriculum. Through artifacts/evidence, students document the dynamic process of developing and achieving mastery of social work competencies. This approach allows for an equity-focused, holistic, and integrative approach to assessing student learning outcomes that align with the diverse needs of our students’. Our focus was to develop a more equitable, relevant approach to capture actualized learning, and provide meaning (Nelken, 2009) for students. The process was two-fold, in that, the MSW program sought to meet accreditation standards, and to provide a tangible product that captured students’ individualized learning outcomes. Developing a process that was meaningful required understanding students learning needs and professional goals. Session participants will gain an understanding of how to develop a similar process for their field of study, based on their curriculum and students’ learning needs.

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Grant & Scholarship Opportunities

Faculty-Student Research and Creative Activity Internal Grants

Faculty-Student Research and Creative Activity Internal Grants (FSIG) support the establishment or expansion of a faculty member's research or creative activities programs via internal seed money to purchase supplies to conduct research, hire students to complete research or creative activities, or to reimburse virtual conference registration of students and their faculty mentors to present or conduct research or creative activities. Applicants are encouraged to indicate a thorough strategy for securing external funding and publication opportunities for projects completed with FSIG awards.

Please refer to the following link for further details including the online application form, due by April 28th.

https://tarleton.infoready4.com/

For any questions or assistance with the application process, kindly contact Dr. Colin Pennington ([email protected]) or Dr. Amber Harris Bozer ([email protected]).

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Grant & Scholarship Opportunities

Student Scholarly Travel Grant (Virtual)

The Center of Educational Excellence is accepting applications for the Student Scholarly Travel Grant. All currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students who have been accepted to present at a virtual conference can apply for the grant of up to $1000. The award is intended to help defray costs associated with virtually attending professional conferences, exhibits and performances for the purpose of presenting research results and other scholarly or creative activities.

Please refer to the following link for further details including the online application form, due by May 12th.

https://tarleton.infoready4.com/

Please note that the funds can only be awarded for virtual attendance and are not available for attendance without presenting your work.

For any questions or assistance with the application process, kindly contact Dr. Haitham Abu Ghazaleh ([email protected]) or Dr. Amber Harris Bozer ([email protected]).

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Thank you to ALL the participants in the Educational Excellence Week and for contributing to its success.

We look forward to welcoming you, and others, again next year!