Graduate Research Achievement Day
University of North Dakota
Friday, March 3
9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | Judging Session and Public Viewing
1:00 p.m. | Awards Ceremony
Graduate Research Achievement Day (GRAD) is an annual celebration in which graduate students from all disciplines present their work to faculty and community judges. Cash prizes are awarded to those students whose work and presentation are deemed best.
More info: https://und.edu/gradschool/grad
Show Posters:
000 - Awards Ceremony - Starts at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 3
UND Graduate School of Studies
Abstract
Come join us to celebrate the winners of GRAD Virtual!
Please click "chat with the presenter" at 1 p.m. to join the Zoom meeting.
Please click "chat with the presenter" at 1 p.m. to join the Zoom meeting.
Presented by
UND School of Graduate Studies
01V - Using CubeSats for orbital debris detection
Abstract
Over the last 30 to 50 years space exploration has grown exceedingly. This growth led to numerous man made space vehicles, vehicle components, manmade space crafts, manmade space entities, and manmade space-entity components left useless, orbiting around earth long after completion of mission. No matter their size, space debris require operational man-made space crafts and satellites to be constantly vigilant and safely and carefully maneuver through space debris in order to avoid disastrous collisions. Most space debris are tracked from ground based stations and is therefore, limited by the response time and size of the space debris. Using CubeSats for in-orbit tracking can address and may resolve these limitations. This research looks into maneuvering CubeSats to capture space debris information utilizing imaging and on-board radar systems.
Presented by
Sadia Ahmed
02V - Identification of Successes, Needs and Priorities for Tribal Food Sovereignty: A Qualitative Research Study
Abstract
This qualitative research project aims to assess food sovereignty in tribal communities using the Food Sovereignty Assessment Tool. The study's three main goals are to identify needs, strengths, and priorities related to food sovereignty, develop a strategic plan for a food sovereignty program, and use the information gathered to inform a grant application to support the community's efforts and/or needs. Data will be collected through focus groups and individual interviews with tribal community members and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. The study has the potential to improve food sovereignty outcomes for tribal communities by supporting the implementation of targeted interventions and programs that meet the unique needs of each community.
Presented by
Paula Aubrey
03V - The Use of Epigenetic Research Techniques During Long Duration Spaceflight to Examine Alterations to the Immune System
Abstract
Long duration spaceflight causes physiological changes in all astronauts. Some changes are more pronounced and noticeable, while others stay hidden within the cells. Epigenetics is a rapidly growing field, especially in the context of aging physiology, a close relation of spaceflight physiology due to how they both impact the body. Epigenetics is the study of gene expression, or methylation levels, which can be affected by the environment and cause changes in downstream physiological function, including in the immune system. Currently, all epigenetic studies conducted on biological samples from astronauts occur back on Earth and thus incur extra expenses. As the space community moves toward longer missions farther away from Earth, the need to process samples in real time will increase, to best keep track of an astronaut's health, including any methylation changes. This review aims to fully explain why such methodologies are not only possible, but necessary, for studying gene expression in real time during a long duration mission.
Presented by
Lindsey Berger
04V - Facilitating Occupational Engagement for Medically Complex Children
Abstract
Children with serious or life-threatening illness are at great risk for occupational deprivation due to their complex medical needs and inhibiting physical symptomology that may accompany diagnoses of this caliber (Doukkali et al., 2013; Kasven-Gonzales & Miale, 2010). Methods for this scholarly project included a literature review, clinical needs assessment, and use of the Person Environment & Occupation Model as a conceptual framework (Law et al., 1996). The findings from the needs assessment supported the development of an educational guide for care providers in medical settings that supports occupational engagement for enhanced quality of life. The guide contains evidence-based strategies for communication, activity and environmental modifications, and adverse behavior response and regulation. This educational guide will enhance providers' skill set, knowledge, and confidence to facilitate occupational engagement that promotes a sense of competence, control, and normalcy in the lives of this population. (Budash, 2022; Hammil et al., 2014).
Presented by
Allyson Bourque
09V - Effectiveness of a scripted direct instruction reading program for students with attention, speech, and hearing difficulties
Abstract
Following the success of Siegfried Engelmann's DISTAR I reading program, he and Haddox and Bruner designed a version of the program for parents to use with their preschool children titled "Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons" (1983). This study researches 5 students, two in kindergarten and three in second grade, who either are being watched or have a special education plan for having an attention, speech, or hearing difficulty. Using Engelmann, Haddox, and Bruner's book, the students worked through twenty (20) 15-minute sessions. Students were observed to have greater academic confidence, to participate more frequently in class with less distractive behavior, and to score higher on reading assessments.
Presented by
Lisa Gusewelle
10V - California dreamin' or California nightmare: What does the future hold?
Abstract
The changing climate of California will affect the energy sector, the water sector, and the agriculture sector. Energy demands in California will increase as the climate warms but goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by switching to renewable energy may offset those increased demands. Water demands will continue to increase and California has some solutions in order to tackle their growing lack of clean water. This affects not only drinking water but the water needed for agriculture of the state such as that of avocados and wine grapes. This presentation will explore these topics and potential solutions for those in California.
Presented by
Allison Hinton
11V - Sexual and Gender Minority status, race/ethnicity, and symptoms of depression and anxiety in the Household Pulse Survey
Abstract
"Background. Sexual and Gender Minorities (SGM) have historically been affected by adverse mental health outcomes. SGM individuals report approximately twice the rate of depression and anxiety compared to non-SGM individuals. The intersectionality of race shows varying risk factors for depression and anxiety.
Methods. Data was collected from the Household Pulse Survey. The association between SGM status and symptoms of depression and anxiety was analyzed utilizing logistic regression methods. Results were stratified by race.
Results. Overall, there were increased odds for symptoms of anxiety and depression in SGM groups compared to non-SGM groups. Race-specific analyses suggest varying odds of anxiety and depression among SGM populations compared to non-SGM groups.
Discussion. Results follow the literature on increased rates of anxiety and depression among SGM individuals. However, racial disparity is not what researchers expect. More information is needed to understand how intersectionality affects SGM status."
Methods. Data was collected from the Household Pulse Survey. The association between SGM status and symptoms of depression and anxiety was analyzed utilizing logistic regression methods. Results were stratified by race.
Results. Overall, there were increased odds for symptoms of anxiety and depression in SGM groups compared to non-SGM groups. Race-specific analyses suggest varying odds of anxiety and depression among SGM populations compared to non-SGM groups.
Discussion. Results follow the literature on increased rates of anxiety and depression among SGM individuals. However, racial disparity is not what researchers expect. More information is needed to understand how intersectionality affects SGM status."
Presented by
Cody Ingle
12V - What SMS Does Not See: Quantifying Actual Risk in Midair Collisions
Abstract
Safety Management Systems (SMS) are designed to detect and manage risk within a system. Voluntary reporting programs support the SMS and allow for proactive trend analysis and reactive mitigation strategies. The accuracy of the system is entirely dependent of the quantity and quality of the aforementioned reports. Original research was conducted to investigate the potential of unknown risk within a system by asking licensed pilots to anonymously disclose if they had ever experienced a specific reportable incident, and if they ultimately reported the occurrence to any form of reporting database. Results indicated that 61% of reportable incidents went unreported to any form of SMS. Common barriers to reporting were education, accessibility, and trust within the SMS system. Historical data, in the form of voluntary reports, is used to estimate risk and is therefore imperative to consider the quantity of unreported events in future risk estimates.
Presented by
Stacey Jackson
14V - A Survey of Space Professional Perception of Satellite Cybersecurity
Abstract
How have concerns about satellite cybersecurity changed in the past decade? The 2012 and 2022 survey results of 130 space professionals were compared to search for shifts in industry perception of satellite cybersecurity. This research utilized survey results from a 2012 research project at the International Space University (ISU) and the same survey administered in 2022 as part of an independent research course at the University of North Dakota (UND). Comparing the decadal results shows a rise in the perceived risk of satellites to cybersecurity threats. The majority of participants maintained a belief that a satellite could be compromised. The most significant change was the building support for a required cybersecurity minimal standard. Overall, these results support the creation of cybersecurity standards for commercial satellites.
Presented by
Rachel Jones
17V - A Qualitative Methods Study for Assessing the Assumption of Responsibility for National Level Space Debris Remediation Efforts
Abstract
The US's National Orbital Debris Implementation Plan identifies that space debris mitigation and remediation efforts are needed to preserve the cislunar space environment. While it describes in detail US space debris mitigation efforts, the plan is significantly lacking in substance regarding remediation efforts. It is then necessary for the US to identify and empower an organization to execute active remediation efforts. This research examines the current state of orbital space debris, its potential impacts on cislunar missions if left unaddressed, and how the US can begin to remediate the cislunar space environment utilizing and expanding existing governmental structure. The research employs a qualitative methods approach: (i) literature review; (ii) content analysis; and (iii) interviews with space professionals to assess the current state of hazardous space debris, the impact of current mitigation efforts, and what role remediation efforts will be necessary to ensure a safe operational space environment for cislunar missions.
Presented by
Edwin Latrell
18V - Food Insecurity in College Students with a Focus in Collegiate Athletics
Abstract
Food insecurity (FI) is an issue that many college students and athletes face during this formative time in their life. This work explores the prevalence rates of FI among college students and college athletes and determine the impact that FI has on academic and athletic performance, alongside emotional well-being. Twelve studies were included that focused on the following population groups: college athletes, college students, and sports dietitians. FI rates among college students ranged from 9.9 - 72.9%. College students who suffered from FI had lower GPA's, higher stress, poorer sleep quality, and a higher risk of disordered eating behaviors. Only two articles directly showed the FI prevalence rates among college athletes, which were found to be 9.9-14.7% and 14.7%. FI among college students and college athletes is an important, yet understudied topic. The research findings suggest negative implications of mental, physical, and emotional health associated with FI.
Presented by
Ellie Morgan
19V - Health Disparities for Youth Who Age Out of Foster Care
Abstract
Through my Integrative Learning Experience, I will examine health disparities that exist for youth who age out of foster care. This population often has limited power, reduced control over their healthcare decisions, significant amounts of trauma, and poor social determinants of health outcomes. To achieve this, a literature-based policy analysis will be conducted. Throughout this analysis causes and consequences that have created health disparities for youth who age out of foster care will be identified to give insight into possible policy solutions. The policy solutions will be analyzed to determine which solution should be recommended based on its effectiveness in reducing disparities for this population.
Presented by
Peyton Leikvoll
20V - Language Accessibility and Competency in Working With Deaf Clients in Mental Health in the Rural Midwest
Abstract
The Deaf community is an underserved population that encounters many barriers when seeking mental health services (McKee et al., 2013). When Deaf clients live in rural areas such as the Midwest, it creates additional barriers as there is a lack of mental health care providers (Fullen et al., 2020). This presentation aims to highlight the limited research base on Deaf clients and their lived experiences in rural mental health practices. The barriers that Deaf clients experience, particularly around language accessibility and the need for counselor competency in this area, will be discussed. The role of sign interpreters in a mental health environment will be introduced, along with methods of achieving language accessibility for Deaf clients. This presentation aims to explore the current counselor competency regarding Deaf clients and incorporate additional knowledge that will help mental health professionals serve this underserved population.
Presented by
Crystal Lundmark
21V - Strength of Hardwood Timber Exposed to Marine Borer Attack
Abstract
This study proposes comprehensive decay evaluations of treated hardwood clear small specimens in a marine environment, including inspection of the post-exposure strength properties and estimation of marine borer infestation. The objective of this study is threefold: To establish the correlation between the rate of decay and remaining strength properties in marine timber, to determine the effectiveness of treating U.S. hardwoods for use as marine timbers in comparison to the industry standard, and to validate the NDS strength design adjustment factors for piles with marine borer exposure. The results of this study will help determine the viability of heartwood-only piles as a long-term solution in mitigating marine borer attacks and reducing decay rates over time. The results of this study will also provide information for database gaps in the strength properties of Eucalyptus Robusta.
Presented by
Jeffrey Lynes
22V - Storying Blackfeet Resilience through Matriarchy: Indigenizing Family Connectedness and Strengthening Kinship Structures.
Abstract
Violence toward Indigenous women and girls continues to be a tool of the colonial state whereas internalized patriarchal beliefs manifest in the way we view women's identities. Colonization brought patriarchy and intolerance therefore undermining women's traditional matriarchal identities. Addressing the structural conditions that underlie unequal access to resources and loss of traditional lifestyles, relies on this fundamental understanding. Patriarchy manipulates Indigenous teachings and worldviews on gender and sexuality, namely the multiplicity and power of these concepts. The respect we hold for our grandmothers and matriarchs, and their roles in our culture, need to be uplifted in mainstream society. When we recover our matriarchal gift of healing: we can uphold Indigenous Women's health, overall well-being, and the well-being of communities. The gift of matriarchal healing must be fostered, so we may mend the fracturing of Indigenous identities and protect future generations.
Presented by
Lynn Mad Plume
24V - The Push for Excellence in Patient Education: Neurologic Physical Therapy
Abstract
This phenomenological study consisting of interviews with recent graduates, physical therapy (PT) faculty, and analyses of program curricula suggests clinician self-efficacy surrounding patient education is linked to neuro exposure, and poor self-efficacy may be due to professional uncertainty. Physical therapists must provide education to their patients in clinical practice and the delivery of patient education among clinicians remains inconsistent, which creates variations in the quality of information provided. This is significant because clinicians rely on skill and self-efficacy to provide education. This research expands the understanding of current perceptions surrounding patient education in PT, specifically analyzing clinicians managing patients with neurological impairments. The information gathered helps PT educators better understand how clinicians approach patient education and how confident they feel educating these individuals. PT educators can better prepare students for clinical practice by prioritizing patient education and modeling this behavior in the classroom.
Presented by
Allyson Muehlemann
25V - Eating Disorders and Nutrition Knowledge
Abstract
Millions of individuals suffer from eating disorder throughout the world. Unfortunately, they are the leading cause of death in mental illness. The pathology of eating disorders is uncertain, however, understanding the level of nutrition knowledge of those with eating disorders may provide insight for therapy. The purpose of this narrative review is to analyze research to determine whether the level of nutrition knowledge influences eating disorder development. An examination of literature was conducted through peer reviewed databases. This receive included 13 original research articles. All of the reviewed articles compared nutrition knowledge to either eating disorders, disordered eating, or eating patterns. No conclusion can be determined as to whether nutrition knowledge has an influence, either positive or negative on eating disorder development. Additional research is needed on the relationship between nutrition knowledge and eating disorders to lead to more successful nutrition interventions.
Presented by
Madison Musich
26V - The People Left Behind: Older Adults in Custody
Abstract
The number of older adults in custody has significantly increased over the past few decades (Carson & Sabol, 2016). Increased staff training on older adult care (Brooke & Ryback, 2020; Williams et al. 2020) and environmental modifications (Bierie, 2018; Brooke et al., 2020; Du Toit et al., 2019; Du Toit & McGrath, 2018; Maschi et al., 2012) have been highlighted as potential solutions to decrease the barriers older adults in custody face. Through an in-depth needs assessment, an online educational module for correctional staff on older adult care that includes information regarding common chronic conditions found among older adults in custody, suggested interventions appropriate for the prison setting, videos, handouts, and case studies to encourage critical thinking, was created. It is anticipated the educational module will aid correctional staff and benefit older adults in custody by increasing the quality of life, occupational participation, and performance in daily activities of all.
Presented by
Therese Pettersen
28V - Adult English Language Lessons for Effective and Equitable Home-School Relations
Abstract
This research project found that the parents of K-12 students face unique challenges in participating collaboratively in the United States' school system. In rural areas where there is limited funding for ESL education, this problem can present additional challenges as educators often do not have the expertise to adequately support adult language learners. In addition, the research indicated that when there was specific school-home communication in place, parents who are emerging bilinguals are excluded or inadequately included. Furthermore, it found that these patterns adversely affect bilingual students' educational outcomes. Finally, the research pointed to strategies to improve the involvement of EL parents in collaboration with the schools.
Presented by
Tammie Rich-Worden
Motivations for sharing public policies on social media
Abstract
Social media have allowed public policies to be widely shared between governments and publics. South Korea is one of the leading countries in this e-government effort. Using the uses and gratifications perspective, this study identified Korean publics motivations for sharing public policies on social media and examined how they are related to their affective and behavioral responses. Two separate online surveys with 1,200 and 500 Korean adults were conducted, respectively. An exploratory factor analysis was performed with the first survey and identified five motivations: philanthropism, social participation, social status, informative values, and pursuing correct information. Moreover, canonical correlation analyses were performed with the second survey to test the relationships between the five motivations and affective and behavioral responses. The first canonical correlation demonstrated the positive relationship between the five motivations and three outcomes - attitudes toward sharing public policies, frequency of sharing public policies, and intention to share public policies (canonical correlation = .70). In addition, four motivations - philanthropism, social participation, social status, and informative values - and attitudes toward and frequency of sharing public policies were correlated (canonical correlation = .33). This study can provide implications for governments to use social media as multi-directional channels to better communicate public policies.
Presented by
Hannah Scheffer-Wentz
30V - Investigating EEG Signatures of Cognitive Decay and Memory Recall during Long-Duration Spaceflight Analog Missions
Abstract
The University of North Dakota School Department of Space Studies has developed a multi-modular Integrated Lunar/Mars Analog Habitat (ILMAH) and has completed fourteen simulations with durations ranging from 10-30 days. Analyses from experiments since have successfully detected critical cognitive processes and network activations/deactivations associated with decision-making while subjects perform realistic, cognitively dense, off-world tasks. This paper will focus on our fourth mission measuring cognition in an ICE environment analog experiment (n=8, duration=21days) in fall 2022 during the ILMAH XIV. The habitat comprises five modules, each facilitating realistic planetary operations in ICE. This study aims to measure and predict changes in cognition and memory recall during intervals of skills training, practicing, and testing. During the 21-day analog mission, subjects will pilot a drone through several obstacle courses, each with increasing difficulty, while researchers record subjects' electroencephalogram (EEG). In addition, self-report surveys and performance on neuropsychological performance tasks will be analyzed with EEG outcomes. ... (abstract truncated)
Presented by
Terry Rector
32V - Effects of Continuous versus Intermittent Energy Restriction on Weight Loss
Abstract
Continuous energy restriction is quite prevalent in those following a restricted caloric intake or calorie deficit for weight loss; however, intermittent, and time-restricted energy intakes have been growing in interest. Understanding the positives and negatives of continuous versus intermittent energy restriction is important prior to recommendation of one over the other for weight loss and improvements in other health related outcomes. A narrative search was conducted using the PubMed database through September and October 2022. There was a total of 12 randomized controlled trials used almost all of which comparing continuous versus intermittent energy restriction for either weight loss, hunger, or cardiometabolic biomarkers. Based on the articles reviewed, further research is needed to fully support one method over the other. However, continuous energy restriction may be superior to intermittent energy restriction in terms of compliance and maintenance of weight loss. More insight is needed to determine if one strategy can be labeled superior to the other for specific populations.
Presented by
Kali Wake
33V - Heterogeneity in self-reported hospital experiences in the 2020 North Dakota Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System COVID-19 Supplement
Abstract
Background. There is limited research on hospital experiences of mothers who gave birth during the COVID-19 pandemic. This analysis describes COVID-19 hospital birthing experiences in North Dakota (ND).
Data. Data for 1588 women(weighted) was drawn from the 2020 ND Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System(PRAMS). Participants reported(Y/N) to questions regarding hospital experiences during delivery, social support, and breastfeeding. Data were summarized using weighted percentages by race, age, income, education, and marital status.
Results. White mothers had lower rates of receiving information on protecting baby(57.4% vs 43.1%), baby being tested for COVID-19(27.3% vs 3.7%), and having trouble consulting a lactation specialist(0% vs 3.3%) than American Indian(AI) mothers. Hospital experiences, social support, and breastfeeding also differed by marital status, education, income, and age.
Discussion. Results suggest differences in hospital experiences for mothers by demographic factors during the COVID-19 pandemic. These data may inform culturally safe healthcare practices to provide equitable experiences for all patients."
Data. Data for 1588 women(weighted) was drawn from the 2020 ND Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System(PRAMS). Participants reported(Y/N) to questions regarding hospital experiences during delivery, social support, and breastfeeding. Data were summarized using weighted percentages by race, age, income, education, and marital status.
Results. White mothers had lower rates of receiving information on protecting baby(57.4% vs 43.1%), baby being tested for COVID-19(27.3% vs 3.7%), and having trouble consulting a lactation specialist(0% vs 3.3%) than American Indian(AI) mothers. Hospital experiences, social support, and breastfeeding also differed by marital status, education, income, and age.
Discussion. Results suggest differences in hospital experiences for mothers by demographic factors during the COVID-19 pandemic. These data may inform culturally safe healthcare practices to provide equitable experiences for all patients."
Presented by
Julia Wilson-Peltier
34V - Depth penetration of agglutinates in the lunar regolith
Abstract
Agglutinate deposition in the lunar regolith may be a model for determining micrometeorite depth penetration by progenitor meteoroids of < 2 mm. Regolith of 1 m depth has been proposed for future lunar habitat shielding from meteorites based on the modeling of flux data (Lindsey, 2003). Agglutinate deposits from lunar core sample data acquired at the six Apollo landing sites are measured for ascertaining maximum depth penetration by micrometeorites into the lunar surface. While the sampling locations are too small to run meaningful statistics, some important results were determined. The mature soils of fully-formed agglutinates range from depths of 10.0 - 25 cm. No intact agglutinates exceeded a 30 cm depth profile. Through empirical evidence and correlation, a 1 m depth of lunar regolith is more than adequate as future habitat protection against micrometeorites and ejecta debris of < 2 mm that continually impact the lunar surface.
Presented by
Jacob Yates
35V - Cultivating a Culturally Relevant and Responsive History Classroom
Abstract
The purpose of this study centered around exploring how to better incorporate culturally responsive and relevant teaching and assessment into the high school history classroom at a small, rural public school comprised of predominantly Native American students. At this school, students continuously score low on assessments, and though this school has moved toward an emphasis on differentiation within the classroom, this differentiation is often based on pedagogy and assessments that do not take a cultural approach or cultural validity into account. According to Trumball and Nelson-Barber (2019), high-stakes assessments are rooted in Euro-American values and foundations and do not recognize Native American cultures nor offer cultural validity. Instead, culturally responsive instruction and the use of formative assessments provide Native American students a space to best show their growth of learning and promotes immediate and meaningful feedback to allow students to evaluate their own learning and set future goals.
Presented by
Sarah Zacher