Student Research Symposium Program Spring 2025

Jenna Brown - “Lowering the Risk of Falls in the Elderly Population” (session 19) Falls are considered one of the leading causes of injury in people over the age of 65. Falls can result in broken bones, internal bleeding, and sometimes death, making it necessary to lower the risk of falls in this population. There are several techniques, strategies, and programs that are utilized by the elderly to decrease the risk of falling, resulting in less physical harm to the individual. Exercise programs, home safety checklists, aquatic therapy, and toileting schedules for confused individuals are a few techniques that aid in fall prevention. This educational guide will highlight each of these techniques and their effectiveness on fall prevention utilizing current research evidence. The goal of this education guide is to be a resource for the at-risk population, describing techniques to lower the chances of falls resulting in injury. Erica Burch Palomino - “Temperature-Driven Activity: Investigating the Link Between Environmental Temperature and Snake Activity in Saline County, Missouri” (session 10) Environmental temperature heavily influences metabolic activity in snakes. This research evaluates the link between environmental temperature and snake activity rates across Marshall Junction Conservation Area, Saline County, MO. Snakes were captured through chance encounters or targeted habitat searches. Both air and soil temperature were collected at each capture site, snake activity was measured by capture frequency. Research analyzes temperature-related variables to discover if increased temperature results in increased snake activity, which helps understand their ecological behavior. The results could help wildlife managers understand the local seasonal activity patterns as well as conservation strategies. Makayla Casjens - “Biochemical Mechanisms and Pathophysiology of Enterolithiasis on Horses: Mineral Composition, Gastrointestinal Processes, pH, and Dietary Influence” (poster session 1) Enterolithiasis is a major cause of colic in horses, resulting from mineral concretions in the gastrointestinal tract. These stones are primarily composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate and calcium carbonate and form through biomineralization, where minerals accumulate and harden over time. Intestinal alkalinization, characterized by an elevated gut pH, facilitates mineral precipitation and creates the ideal environment in the gut for stone growth. Recent research has identified genetic predispositions to enteroliths and microbiome influences on gut pH regulation. Advanced imaging techniques, such as computed tomography, have improved early detection. Dietary studies suggest reducing alfalfa intake and incorporating acidifying agents may lower the risk of enterolith formation. Diet remains a key factor, as alfalfa-rich diets, high in magnesium and phosphorus, are strongly linked to stone development. Trouble with gastrointestinal motility and slow intestinal movements further contribute to mineral growth. Metabolic imbalances, combined with dietary and intestinal conditions, promote stone nucleation and growth. Understanding the interactions between pH balance, mineral metabolism, and diet is essential for prevention. Modern advancements in nutrition, diagnostics, and microbiome research provide new strategies to reduce enterolithiasis risk in horses, improving overall equine health and management.

Makayla Casjens - “Synthesis and Evaluation of Plant-Derived Growth Promoters as Antibiotic Alternatives in Livestock Feed” (poster session 2) Natural growth promoters have emerged as promising alternatives to antibiotics in livestock feed, addressing the growing concern over antibiotic resistance. The synthesis of plant-derived and bioactive compounds that can enhance growth and improve health in livestock without contributing to resistance is the subject of much research. These natural growth promoters, including essential oils and peptides, exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that support animal health and performance. Studies investigate the chemical synthesis of these compounds, particularly those derived from herbs, spices, and other plant sources, and their mechanisms of action in promoting growth. Key findings highlight the ability of these compounds to modulate gut microbiota, enhance nutrient absorption, and improve immune function in animals. Furthermore, research shows the stability, bioavailability, and safety of these natural growth promoters when incorporated into animal feed. While natural growth promoters show significant potential, challenges such as dosage optimization, regulatory approval, and cost-effectiveness remain. This research emphasizes the need for continued innovation in the synthesis of plant-based additives and their integration into livestock production systems. By developing sustainable alternatives to antibiotics, this study aims to reduce the reliance on antimicrobial drugs and promote healthier, more sustainable practices in animal agriculture. Jyoti Chhetri - “A Website for Time Management and Productivity” (session 17) I am coding a website from scratch through notepad++. The purpose of the website will be to provide time management and productivity by offering tools such as planners, to-do lists, study techniques, and time-tracking features. The target audience of this website will be local college students, ages 18–30. The website will cater to students of all genders and backgrounds who seek better organization and productivity skills. The graphics used in this website will be icons representing tasks, calendars, study habits, and productivity graphs. Minimalist illustrations and infographics will be used to make concepts visually concepts. As a student myself I have been struggling to manage my life and get up to date with my studies while balancing my personal life. So, I believe this is a good research opportunity and also to put forth an idea that could help others like myself. Nikoloz Chitaia - “MamberProject” (session 13) MamberProject is a Georgia-based streetwear brand dedicated to producing high-quality clothing with a strong identity. Focused on international standards, MamberProject delivers well-crafted hoodies and streetwear that stand out in quality and design. The brand made its debut with a collection launch in Milan, establishing its presence in the global fashion scene. Instead of relying on paid advertisements or influencer collaborations, MamberProject builds its audience organically through lifestyle content featuring friends. MamberProject has already gained significant attention, with over 40,000 new viewers since February. The brand also embraces Georgian cultural pride, knowing that people from Georgia appreciate seeing their country represented internationally. This influences its creative marketing strategies, such as its previous successful billboard ad in New York. With a focus on quality, authenticity, and global reach, MamberProject is positioning itself as a distinctive name in streetwear.

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