Q: Journal of Undergraduate Research & Inquiry

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https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11868/722

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"There Will Be Nonsense in it!": Absurdity and Anti-Allegory in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
(The Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry, The University of Tampa, 2018) Gilbert, Cheyenne
A Mouse Model: To Predict the Effect of Devil Facial Disease (DFTD) on Sarcophilus harrisii Behavior
(The Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry, The University of Tampa, 2018) Valentine, Kendal
The specific question in study is if the parasitic cell line of devil facial tumor disease (DFTD) induces behavioral changes in its host in order to augment transmission. DFTD has obliterated the Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) population since its emergence, causing the species to become endangered. The experimental plan will be two-fold: establishing an effective non-obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency (NOD/SCID) DFTD mouse model, and observing relative behaviors in individuals who contract DFTD. Two previous studies which have established effective NOD/SCID DFTD mouse models will provide crucial guidance to procedures of DFTD tumor cell culture and inoculation (Kreiss et al., 2011, Pinfold et al., 2014). NOD/SCID (immunocompromised) mice will be injected with DFTD cells and will have the ability to develop the disease. The second portion of the experiment involves a series of behavioral observations of BALB/c (normal) mice, NOD/SCID mice, and DFTD-infected NOD/SCID mice. In an open-field chamber, two mice will interact for 48 hours and will have access to food, water, a resting area, and an activity (a mouse wheel) (Figure1). It is expected that DFTD-infected NOD/SCID mice will display an increase in aggressive social behaviors such as biting, attacking, and fighting because they have contracted the parasitic cell line. In comparison, BALB/c and NOD/SCID mice should exhibit lower levels of aggression. NOD/SCID mice are immunocompromised and will likely exhibit decreased activity (Mench, 1998). The results of this study have the potential to combine known information from Tasmanian devil behavioral studies with successful DFTD tumor cell mouse models in order to elucidate the overall understanding of the DFTD disease mechanism. Understanding the mechanism could lead to further studies that explore the possibility of a neuron-parasite interaction which induces observed behaviors. Studies may investigate upregulation or downregulation of neurotransmitters and/or altered neurotransmitter receptor function.
An Analysis of the City of Tampa Bay's Comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan
(The Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry, The University of Tampa, 2018) Joseph, Colin
As with any other city, Tampa Bay is prone to a number of hazards and disasters that could potentially pose a danger for citizens and the general business environment. To prepare for cases like this, it is important to have a plan that can be easily implemented to mitigate the effects of any potential natural disaster/hazard that could ultimately endanger the lives of citizens and business owners within the area. As such, the City of Tampa Comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan (CEOP) provides a detailed overview of the various areas that need to be addressed, as well as specific actions that need to be taken, in the event of any sort of natural disaster/hazard. In terms of the current CEOP, it provides an introduction that outlines the importance of having an established operations plan in place. The plan’s introduction includes detailed descriptions on various elements of the plan itself, as well as the interim steps of the plan’s preparation, which are useful for outlining the reasoning behind the plan’s design. In other words, this provides an explanation for the plan’s purpose, along with why the plan is designed in this specific manner. From a more holistic perspective, the plan is divided into numerous chapters which, in my opinion, is useful for citizens as it makes the plan easier to read and understand, by providing a building infrastructure for every element of the plan, in order to ensure a greater understanding and awareness for all/most citizens.
[Front Matter] Q: Journal of Undergraduate Research & Inquiry
(The Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry, 2018) Alex Sullivan, Co-Editor-in-Chief; Sara Casareto, Co-Editor-in-Chief; Meghan Lebrun, Layout Editor
Includes cover art, mission statement, honorable mention, table of contents and editor bios.
The Effectiveness and Accurateness of Goniometric Devices in Lower Extremity Injuries
(The Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry, The University of Tampa, 2018) May, Rebecca
Background: Lower extremity injuries add up to be the leading cause of emergency room visits and trauma hospitalizations among people aged under 65 years’ old. Goniometers are the devices clinically used to measure range of motion of various joints in patients receiving treatment or therapy following an injury or procedure. Although goniometric devices allow for simple measurements and are relatively cheap to manufacture, they have limitations that need to be addressed. Research Question and Hypothesis: The research question of this study is as follows: Do traditional and modern goniometric devices provide accurate joint range of motion measurement among adult patients with lower extremity operations and/or injuries in the United States? The hypothesis of this research study is that advanced modern goniometric devices are more accurate than traditional goniometric devices. Objectives: This research aims to examine the accuracy of goniometric devices, to determine whether or not the accuracy of these goniometric devices impacts the recovery process of patients, and to assess if new range of motion devices are more accurate and effective than traditional devices. Methods: This study is structured as a Quasi-experimental study which includes 4 phases. Phase 1 includes a pretest to determine overall range of motion, Phase 2 collects measurements utilizing traditional goniometers, Phase 3 collects measurements utilizing modern goniometers, and Phase 4 concludes with a post-test to reexamine overall joint range of motion. With IRB approval, 380 participants over the age of 18 will be recruited from Tampa General Hospital, Florida Hospital Tampa, St. Joseph’s Hospital, and/or Tampa Community Hospital. Analysis: Statistical analyses will be run to determine the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive of each goniometric device. These results will be compared amongst the two groups of goniometric assessment devices.
Effects of Ultravoiolet Radiation on Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm Integrity: an ultrastructure analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy
(The Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry, The University of Tampa, 2018) Albert, Gabrielle
The goal of the present study was to evaluate the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation of various wavelengths (UV-A, UV-B, UV-C) on the integrity of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm structure. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was employed to visualize and qualitatively assess damage to the ultrastructure of S. aureus biofilms cultivated on plastic coverslips after exposure to UV-radiation. The results of the study revealed that the high-energy wavelengths of UV-B and UV-C could effectively induce apoptosis with no evidence of intact biofilm formation after exposure. Therefore, such wavelengths of UV-radiation may be employed as a supplementary mechanism for targeted biofilm decontamination to further minimize the occurrences of biofilm-related nosocomial infections.
The Uncovered Illness in Charlotte Temple: Sociopathy and Society
(The Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry, The University of Tampa, 2018) Nelson, Abigail
Research Proposal: Effects of Maternal Cortisol on Embryonic Neural Development
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Strzelinski, Hannah; Osovitz, Dr. Michelle
Expectant mothers who experience periods of increased stress exhibit elevated expression of cortisol, a hormone that binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the hippocampus. Excessive exposure to cortisol can cause damage to glucocorticoid receptors and signal for the downregulation of glucocorticoid receptors – a process which handicaps future recognition of cortisol concentrations as well as the negative feedback loop responsible for regulating cortisol production. Placental transmission of maternal cortisol results in embryonic abnormalities pertaining to brain morphology, psychology, and various cardiovascular and metabolic functions. In this research proposal the expectant model organisms, rats, are given daily injections of 0 (saline), 0.5, or 1.0 mg of hydrocortisone acetate during days 15-19 of embryonic development to mimic periods of increased maternal stress and induce decreased glucocorticoid receptor density in the offspring. Following birthing, the pups are fixed and samples of hippocampal tissue are harvested for the application of a fluorescent antibody that facilitates visualization of glucocorticoid receptors and the subsequent quantification of optical density – a value that is predicted to be inversely proportional to the concentration of hydrocortisone acetate treatments. This essay was written in Dr. Osovitz class.
The Role of Personality Traits in Predicting Intimate Partner Aggression within Romantic Relationships
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Mandatori, Flavia; Hardin, Dr. Deletha
The purpose of this literature review was to examine the relationship between personality traits and intimate partner aggression within romantic relationships. Specifically, this study focused on the role of the Big Five, borderline personality traits, and psychopathic traits to explain aggressive behavior within romantic relationships. Extant scholarships emphasize the significant relationship between personality traits and intimate partner aggression. In particular, neuroticism was strongly correlated with psychological aggression for both men and women. Furthermore, borderline personality features, especially the trait anger, played a significant role in predicting intimate partner aggression. Psychopathic traits were also strong predictors of violent and aggressive behavior towards an intimate partner. The current findings highlight the importance of gaining a better understanding of the role of personality traits on individual behavior, as to identify the etiologies of aggressive behaviors and develop effective treatment and prevention strategies. This essay was written in Dr. Deletha Hardin’s PSY 319 class.
Musician Merchandise in the Age of Digital Music
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Nallan, Kaylee; Hovanec, Dr. Caroline
This research acknowledges the shift in music sales from physical CDs and records to online digital streaming that resulted in a loss of sales for musicians. Merchandise has become a lucrative option for musicians to replace revenue lost from physical music sales. This paper asks if it is necessary for musicians to act as entrepreneurs in order to be successful in the modern music industry, with an emphasis on merchandise. To answer this question, the paper analyzes what merchandise is; how it is sold, such as pop-up shops and online distributors; merchandise’s appeal to fans; revenue generated from merchandise; issues with merchandise; and successful artists who have used the entrepreneurial method of selling merchandise to increase success and popularity. This paper shows that our culture is used to thinking of musicians as artists who are separate from the world of business. However, in the age of digital streaming, social media, and merchandise pop-up shops, musicians must now be entrepreneurs as well, if they are going to be successful. When musicians adapt to the model of entrepreneurship for musical success, they can effectively create a brand for themselves, connect and expand fan bases, and use merchandise bundling techniques to help with charting success. This essay was written in Dr. Hovanec’s AWR 201 class.
Front Matter for Q: Journal of Undergraduate Research & Inquiry, Volume 2, Spring 2021
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Theodosiadis, Dimitra, Editor in Chief; Borjas, Iovanna, Student Editorial Staff; Landau, Taylor, Student Editorial Staff; Lazansky, Rebecca, Student Editorial Staff; Miranda, Tatiana, Student Editorial Staff; Rodriguez Rivera, Celina, Student Editorial Staff; Sabol, Katherine, Student Editorial Staff; Sperry, Maggie, Student Editorial Staff
The Study of Feminist Approach: Degas’s Depiction of the Dark and Daunting Life of Ballet Dancers
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Kleinknecht, Grace; Trentinella, Dr. Rosemarie
This essay, written in Methodology of Art Historical Research led by Professor Trentinella, examines the profound artist Edgar Degas. Degas was most known for his artwork involving ballet dancers. His art not only highlights the beauty and grace these dancers encompass but also subtly brings awareness and understanding of the horrid lives many of these dancers faced. My essay examines the feminist theory through a female-dominated workforce and male-dominated consumers, while also studying Marxist ideas between the different classes present during this time and how the distinction between classes that were on stage or in the audience contributed to exploitation and prostitution.
Applying a Marxist Perspective to Giotto
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Novakovic, Daniella; Trentinella, Dr. Rosemarie
The following research exploration investigates the relationship between Giotto’s work in the heart of the Arena Chapel and the individual who commissioned it, Enrico Scrovegni. Accused of being a usurer, Scrovegni commissioned the Arena Chapel in the hopes of gaining clemency for his dubiously acquired wealth, as usury had been a sin commensurate with the betrayal of Christ in medieval Europe. This is emphasized in the depiction of Scrovegni in Last Judgment, where Scrovegni emblematically presents a miniature of the Chapel to the Virgin Mary, who is regarded as the intercessor of forgiveness through her son Jesus Christ in Catholic Mariology. By using his wealth to influence the intent of Giotto’s artwork – not only to inspire respect amongst his peers, but for the purpose of salvation through the Virgin Mother – Scrovegni has licensed art historians to study his involvement in the Arena Chapel through the retroactive lens of Marxism, a concept chiefly concerned with monetary and social principles. This essay was written in Dr. Rosemarie Trentinella’s ART 225 class.
Editor's Introduction
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Theodosiadis, Dimitra
The Effects of Voice Familiarity on Attention and Memory During the Dichotic Listening Test
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) England, Marina; Blessing, Dr. Stephen
This research proposal investigates the effect of the presence of a familiar voice on memory in the context of a dichotic listening test. In this proposed study, 10 undergraduate students attending The University of Tampa will be instructed to recall phrases spoken by either an arbitrary speaker or a familiar celebrity. The number of words recalled between conditions will be compared using a paired-samples t-test. If the results support my hypothesis, the t-test will show a significant difference between the means of each condition. This will provide evidence towards the claim that an increased familiarity of voice may lead to higher auditory memory recall. If the results do not support my hypothesis, the t-test will not show a significant difference between words recalled in either condition. Overall, the study will provide more insight on the relationship between celebrity voice familiarity and performance on a recall task in young adults. This essay was written in Dr. Blessing’s PSY 425 class.
Prevalence of Concussions in Student Athletes During Contact Sports
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Naegle, Sydney; Cassidy, Hailey; Wahba, Sam; Benrey, Samantha; Loi, Dr. Aguado
Concussions are a concern among athletes as research continues to surface about negative health impacts. Collegiate athletes have a high prevalence of concussions due to the nature of their respective sports. The aim of this study was to understand the prevalence of concussions among The University of Tampa (UT) athletes. A cross-sectional survey was sent to UT student athletes regarding their concussion history. The results were analyzed in SPSS, a statistical analysis software program. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to determine the prevalence rate of concussions and other relationships including health of diet, severity of symptoms, gender, rehabilitation habits, and sleep. Data from 22 UT student athletes was collected. Analysis identified a 22.7% prevalence rate of concussions in UT athletes. Men’s lacrosse had a 69% prevalence rate whereas women’s soccer had a 30% prevalence rate. This study showed prevalence rate of concussions among student athletes at UT. Several findings coincide with previous literature about the role of gender in concussion reporting. Some limitations did affect this study such as unequal variation in the gender responses. Understanding how mTBI affects collegiate athletes will aid in future preventative measures and help decrease further debilitating injury in those affected by concussions. A larger sample population should be studied to further increase the validity of results. This essay was written in Dr. Aguado Loi’s HSC 360 class.
Los Efectos del Machismo en la Salud Mental
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Bono, Jaclyn; Goldizen, Miranda; Miller, Dr. Alyssia
Machismo is the general term used by Latin American cultures to describe the expectation for masculinity in men. Some characteristics of a traditional man include reserved emotions, an active sexual life, and portraying dominance over women. This meta-analysis explores the relationship between machismo and mental health in men. We found that the majority of studies support that machismo has a negative effect on mental health. The negative effects include stress, depression, anxiety, violence, self-esteem issues, substance abuse, risky sexual behavior, aggression, and decreased sexual comfort. The studies did not conclude that there was a relationship between the level of machismo and nationality. It is important to know everyone’s culture, beliefs, and background because it affects their physical and mental health. This essay was written in Professor Miller’s SPA 251 class.
The Impact of Remote Learning on Higher Education Spanish Students and their Motivation to Learn at The University of Tampa
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Counahan, Ashley; DeMil, Dr. Andrew
This study seeks to investigate the impact of remote learning on higher education Spanish students and their motivation to learn at The University of Tampa. Its focus is to determine how a sudden increase in virtual-learning environments affected language learners at a collegiate level during the global pandemic. Previous studies have shown that the use of technology in language classes has been viewed as both positive and negative, depending upon the learning environment and delivery method of course content (González-Carriedo & Esprívalo Harrell, 2018). This study also examines how course content can be adjusted with the use of technology in future semesters to benefit students’ motivation and progress with the Spanish language and culture. This essay was written in Dr. DeMil’s SPA 499 class.
Everyday Nationalism: The Easter Rising of 1916 and the Making of Modern Irish Independence
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Ingram, Julia; Palmer, Dr. Ashley
In 1916, a group of Irish nationalists known as the Irish Volunteers rose up against British rule in a weeklong rebellion that became known as the Easter Rising. The Irish Volunteers were ultimately crushed by the British military and failed to establish an independent Irish republican government. However, the Easter Rising encouraged a heightened sense of nationalism among everyday people which led to the popularization of the Irish independence movement culminating in the Irish Free State in 1922. This paper addresses how the nationalist organizations and the Catholic Church strategically framed the Easter Rising to garner public support and consequently, how the public internalized the nationalistic fervor in their personal letters and diaries. This essay was written in Dr. Palmer’s HIS 400 class.
Las Influencias Culturales de los Hábitos de Fumar
(Keyhole Press, The University of Tampa, 2021) Manno, Sarah; Miller, Jarred; DePamphilis, Gian; Miller, Dr. Alyssia
The sudden emergence of vaping has recently revived a safety outreach to further expand knowledge of how detrimental such products can be to one’s health. Both cigarette smoking and vaping are activities that continue to bolster the argument against tobacco products. While tobacco preference around the world is varied, it is important to examine this habit from culture to culture. The prevalence of tobacco use at a young age is one of the parallels between American and Hispanic culture. Vaping products are often utilized by the American youth, while cigarette smoking is an ordinary activity for young Hispanics and Latinos. This raises a question in regard to what factors may influence the willingness of young Latinos to vape. To investigate this further, the research team conducted a Qualtrics survey (offered in both Spanish and English), aimed at people 18 to 25 years old of Latino, Hispanic, or Caucasian descent. Participants were asked a multitude of questions surrounding vaping, which were modeled from the NHIS questionnaire. Following data collection, the statistics were computed and analyzed through ANOVA and t-testing software. The tests did not exhibit any correlation between American acculturation and the likelihood of vaping; however, a correlation was found between one’s probability of vaping and social use. The most influential factor was deemed to be familial influences, represented with the most statistically significant p-value. No correlation was found between the level of American acculturation and the level of development within a country. This essay was written in Professor Miller’s SPA 251 class.

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