2025 Thomas More University Student Research Forum
The Student Research Forum sponsored by the Office of Academic Affairs with Vice President and Chief Academic Officer Jerome Langguth, Ph.D., was held on April 14, 2025. The Forum enhances the University’s mission by highlighting the talent, creativity, and dedication of students from a wide variety of disciplines. Included here is a listing of the research presented at this year’s conference.
SCIENCES & MATHEMATICS
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
Barnes, Lindsay & Martinez, Noelia | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Lorentz | AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Comparative Analysis of Microplastics Found in Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) at Three Sites Along the Ohio River
Aquatic ecosystems are increasingly affected by pollutants such as plastics, which pose significant threats to both marine and freshwater environments. While extensive research has documented the impact of plastics on marine ecosystems, there is a notable gap in understanding their effects on freshwater systems, such as the Ohio River. This study investigates the presence of microplastics in zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha), an invasive species near the bottom of the food chain, across three sites: the Zimmer Power Plant (River Mile 444), the New Richmond Wastewater Treatment Plant (River Mile 449), and the TMU Biology Field Station (River Mile 451).
Sampling revealed microplastics at all locations, with the Zimmer Power Plant exhibiting the highest concentrations, followed by the New Richmond Wastewater Treatment Plant. Lastly, the TMU Biology Field Station, being a control site, showed the lowest amount of microplastics. Microplastic morphology analysis indicated filaments as the predominant shape, likely originating from synthetic fabrics, and transparent microplastics as the most common color, possibly due to degradation.
The findings underscore the widespread contamination of the Ohio River with microplastics and highlight the potential for bioaccumulation and biomagnification up the food chain. This study suggests a need for further research to pinpoint direct sources of microplastics and develop strategies to mitigate their environmental impact.
Birtcil, MaryKay | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sabine Zacate
Development of a Method to Isolate Bacteria from Soil in Northern Kentucky
This study examines isolating soil bacteria in Northern Kentucky; soil samples were collected from Morning View Heritage Area in Kenton County, Kentucky, a conserved site. Samples were taken in fall and winter from prairie, woodland, cedar, and dry locations. Three grams of soil were incubated in sterile media on a shaker for three weeks to promote bacterial growth. Following incubation, serial dilutions and plate spreading were performed to analyze bacterial colonies, which appeared within two to three days. Isolation streaks were conducted for further characterization, followed by PCR using universal bacterial 16S primers and DNA sequencing. This study aims to improve bacterial isolation and characterization methods while establishing a foundation for future fungal microbiome analysis. Understanding microbial communities in soil can provide insights into plant health, nutrient uptake, and stress tolerance, with broader environmental and agricultural implications.
Daniel, Lillie | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Shannon Galbraith-Kent
A Survey of Potential Non-Traditional Hibernaculum of Bats Within Boone Cliffs State Nature Preserve
Bats are an integral part of the forest ecosystem providing insect control, pollination, seed dispersal, and forest health indication. The following study was conducted in October and November 2023 to determine what species of bats are present in Boone Cliffs State Nature Preserve, an old-growth mixed mesophytic forest, in Boone County, Kentucky at a time when many species migrate to warmer temperatures. Stationary acoustic monitoring of echolocation calls detected a total of seven species: big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), eastern red bat (Lasiurus borealis), evening bat (Nycticeius humeralis), hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus), silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans),
tri-colored bat (Perimyotis subflavus), and gray (Myotis grisescens). Understanding species diversity is utilized for land use decisions and ecosystem conservation.spectrophotometry allowing for reduced costs under certain conditions.
Edwards, Riley | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sabine Zacate
Oil-based Antimicrobial Surface Treatments on Cedar Wood Efficiency Before and After Simulated Usage
Bacterial contamination on surfaces used for food production is a growing problem. The antimicrobial properties of cedar wood as well as several essential oils and other surface treatments are important to understand when trying to create a healthy environment. Bacterial contamination impacts many wooden surfaces in the home environment, especially in areas used for food preparation. In this study seven different surface treatments on cedar wood were used to evaluate their antimicrobial properties against four bacteria commonly found in kitchen environments. Furthermore, this study did also simulate usage of wood to determine how these wood-surface treatments respond to meat-induced contamination and subsequent standard kitchen washing using dish soap. We found that prior and post treatment, the untreated cedarwood did limit bacterial growth the most, with E. coli being the most susceptible of all bacteria tested. Furthermore, linseed oil with essential oils, and mineral oil were also effective in limiting bacterial growth.
Francis, Noah | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Joseph E. Qualls
Innovative and Economical Methods for Analyzing Colorimetric Assay Data
Colorimetric assays (CAs) provide quantifiable data based on the concentration of solutions of a particular color. Spectrophotometry is a common method used for CAs by measuring the absorbance of light of a solution with a spectrophotometer – yet the use of spectrophotometers can be cost prohibited. Previous work in our lab has shown quantification of grey scale values (GSVs) obtained from digital scanner images of CAs can provide comparable results to spectrophotometry. Recognizing advanced cell phone (i.e., “smart phone”) technology is accessible to 91% of adults in the U.S. (PEW Research Center), we sought to investigate the potential of acquiring images using a cell phone camera as a means to analyze CA data. The central objective of this study was to compare the analysis of CA data using cell phone image GSVs, digital scanner GSVs, and absorbency values gathered via spectrophotometry.
Hans, Kailynn, Roll, Isabella, Carter, Julia, & Bey, Erik | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Zachary Taylor
The Role of Oxidative Stress Regulators in Cancer
In previous studies it has been demonstrated that genes that regulate oxidative stress in normal cells may also play significant roles in a cancer cells ability to become tumorigenic. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can influence normal cells by altering their proliferation rates, inducing inflammatory responses etc. ROS levels, in precancerous cells, have been shown to affect apoptosis resistance and initiate metabolic reprogramming of normal cells. Thus, our understanding of the genes that regulate oxidative stress in cancer cells is highly needed. The gene NADPH Quinone Oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1) modifies specific ROS that arise in the form of polyaromatic hydrocarbons that exist in substances such as cigarette smoke and spent fuels. NQO1 is highly overexpressed in tumor cells and conversely has low expression in normal cells. However, when NQO1’s expression levels are reversed in tumor cells to lower levels, it alters the phenotype of the cancer cell rendering them less tumorigenic. In our current studies we hypothesize that the ratio of NQO1/Catalase, and the ratio of oxidative stress regulators in general matters in terms of tumorigenesis through examining the effect that inhibition of catalase and NQO1 simultaneously had on cell survival and apoptotic endpoints including DNA damage and repair. We used Western-Blot analyses and cell growth studies to examine the effect of ROS inhibitors on cancer cells treated with various cytotoxic and ROS generating agents. Our preliminary results suggest a deeper understanding of the ratio of expression of specific genes that regulate oxidative stress in cancer cells.
Horton, Abigail | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Lorentz | AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Multi-plate Samplers: Effects of Plate Roughness on Macroinvertebrate Community Retrieval
The United States Environmental Protection Agency uses Hester-Dendy artificial substrate samplers to collect and analyze aquatic macroinvertebrate populations. The textures of the sampler plates can vary, possibly influencing the biomass and taxonomic composition of the colonizing macroinvertebrate communities. In this study, five sets of sampler plates with different textures and orientations were deployed in the Ohio River and collected after a six-week period. The total biomass of each sampler set indicates that used plates retrieve a lower total biomass than new plates. The macroinvertebrate communities demonstrated colonization patterns that suggest Zygopterans prefer to colonize rougher surfaces while Chironomids prefer to colonize smoother surfaces. These differences in community composition should be taken into consideration in future studies conducted by the EPA and other organizations concerned with aquatic macroinvertebrate research and conservation.
Kennedy, Thomas | Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Christopher Lorentz and Dr. John Ferner (Professor Emertius)
The Status and Distribution of Reptile and Amphibian Species in Northern Kentucky: A 30-year Update
In recent decades, far northern Kentucky (Boone, Kenton, and Campbell Counties) has undergone rapid urbanization and suburban sprawl. This has led to substantial habitat loss and consequential declines in animal populations. Two groups especially susceptible to these environmental changes are reptiles and amphibians. This study focuses on the status and distribution of reptile and amphibian populations in these three counties. It serves as a comparative update to similar reports completed by John Ferner, Paul Krusling, and Melissa Obermeyer in 1993 and 2000. In this study, numerous field surveying methods were used from 2022-2024 to gather reptile and amphibian observations. This spatial data, paired with relevant historical data, was then used to determine the relative abundance of different species in the region. Results from this study provide further insight into species occurrence and abundance, along with potential population changes in this relatively understudied region.
Martinez, Dani | Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Christopher Lorentz and Dr. William Wetzel
Comparative Analysis of Metal Concentrations in Longnose Gar (Lepisosteus osseus) and Gizzard Shad (Dorosoma cepedianum) in the Ohio River
Heavy metal contamination is a growing concern due to increasing sources of pollution such as urban development and agricultural runoff. These metals cause ecological damage, posing a threat to aquatic organisms and their consumers through bioaccumulation. This study was conducted through a comparative analysis using longnose gar (Lepisosteus osseus) and gizzard shad (Dorosoma cepedianum) to test for heavy metals and examine bioaccumulation traces between the two species in the Ohio River . Results showed that each metal of interest was present in various samples of longnose gar muscle tissue, liver, and gills. Longnose gar had higher overall metal concentrations, whereas gizzard shad had lower levels of metal concentrations with most samples being below the limit of quantification. This study concludes that there might be modest signs of bioaccumulation in both species, although the findings are not definitive.
Sanders, Gemma | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Joseph Qualls
Contribution of L-arginine and L-citrulline on Proliferation and Viability of a Human Monocyte Cell Line (THP-1)
The immune system provides host defense against infectious disease. Leukocytes, such as monocytes and macrophages, recognize, control, and eliminate wide ranges of pathogens. Cell proliferation is essential to mount immune responses as it amplifies immune cell populations and their effect on host defenses. The proliferation rate of the leukocytes is just one component that can be observed to determine the overall efficiency of the immune system response. Cellular proliferation is dependent on the amino acid, L-arginine. Interestingly, L-arginine can be synthesized by the amino acid L-citrulline via argininosuccinate synthase 1 (Ass1) and argininosuccinate lyase (Asl) enzyme activity. This study investigates the role of L-arginine and L-citrulline in supporting proliferation of the THP-1 human monocyte cell line, allowing us to test the hypothesis that L-citrulline can sustain immune cell proliferation in an L-arginine deficient environment.
Wolfe, Noelle | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sabine Zacate
Development of a Detection Assay for Hop Latent Viroid (HLVd) in Cannabis (Industrial Hemp) Plants via RT-PCR
Viroids are currently the smallest known infectious agents. They are small pathogenic RNA molecules that lack the protein capsid found in viruses. One such viroid is hop latent viroid (HLVd). Hop latent viroid is known to be infectious to hops plants, however in recent years its presence has also become highly apparent in hemp (Cannabis sativa) plants. With rise in industrial hemp in many areas across the U.S., HLVd has been devasting many crops throughout the states. At this time, it appears to be concentrated in the Western states of the U.S. such as Oregon and California. After potential cases of HLVd were discovered in cannabis plants at University of Kentucky research fields, a detection method to identify this pathogen was needed. As of this time, the only known method of identification of viroids is through a reverse-transcriptase PCR. The USDA-ARS in Oregon provided us with their protocols for HLVd detection. Using these protocols as a guide, we aimed to establish a HLVd detection assay here in Kentucky.
CHEMISTRY
Genslinger, Madison | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. William Wetzel
A Chemical and Mathematical Analysis of Agave Spirits
Produced in Central America, tequila is a very well-known spirit that has historic links to the fermented drinks of Aztecs. To prepare tequila, agave plants are steamed and milled to then be fermented with yeast, distilled, aged, and bottled to create a final 80 proof beverage. The aging process gives rise to tequila types with distinct taste profiles: blanco, joven, reposado, and añejo. In this work, nearly 30 spirits were analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES) and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to examine the levels of metal ions and volatile compounds. Approximately 17 metal ions and 85 volatiles have been identified and component trends were used to generate a chemical fingerprint to differentiate one tequila from another. To examine the patterns in the data, more sophisticated mathematical methods (Principal Component Analysis and Linear Discriminant Analysis) were employed to characterize and categorize the tequila samples.
Kinwell, Eva | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. William Wetzel
A Novel 3-D Printed Device for Spectrochemical Titrations
Titrations are widely used in chemistry due to their simplicity, low cost, and ability to accurately quantify a target analyte. Indicators are often used to signal the endpoint by providing a colored species, but they have limitations. Not all indicators show a clear color change at the endpoint, and human eyes may struggle to detect small color shifts. A spectrophotometer, however, can detect even subtle color changes, improving analysis quality. In this work, various attachments for holding titration reaction volumes were designed and 3D printed. These were connected to a spectrophotometer, and their performance in spectrophotometric titrations was evaluated. The characteristics and specifications of these attachments, along with their suitability for future titrations, will be discussed.
Robbins, Paige | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Tyler Green
Synthesis and Characterization of Platinum(II) and Paladium(II) Complexes with 2,2’-biquinoline (bqu)
Platinum and palladium diimine complexes function as catalysts in a variety of important chemical processes. This study investigates metal complexes with the novel ligand 2,2’-biquinoline (bqu) and related analogs. The products were confirmed and characterized using UV/Visible spectroscopy and 1H NMR spectrometry. Future work will focus on refining synthetic parameters and using the products as precursors to additional metal complexes.
Ruiz, Jose Javier | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Daniel Esterline | AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Cubane: A Stable Molecule with Unstable Bonds – Advances in Synthesis and Characterization
Cubane is a molecule that has caught the attention of chemists due to its paradoxical nature, this being its high stability when it has multiple 90° bond angles while also contributing to cubane being extremely energetic. Cubane was first synthesized in 1964 by Eaton and Cole due to the overall complexity of cubane it only had yields of 12%, over time this was improved, and the current yields of cubane are around 47%. Yields remain low due to the photochemical step required to create the cube, this structure is created via a Favorskii rearrangement. For this rearrangement to occur UV-B, and several improvements have been made to this reaction to through the usage of catalysts to lower the range of UV needed to diminish the relicence on this wavelength. The synthesis of Cubane methyl ester was done following the paper published by Bliese and Tsanaktsidis and any improvements were attempted.
EXERCISE SCIENCE
Derksen, Lotte | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Micah Garcia
The Validity of Gait Detection Algorithms Using Markerless AI Motion Capture
We investigated the validity of algorithms to detect gait events from body segment motion data generated from markerless artificial intelligence (AI) motion capture while running. We hypothesized that the algorithms would be valid techniques in identifying gait events. We recruited healthy runners who ran on a treadmill at a comfortable speed. After 5-minutes, we recorded 15-seconds of running using AI motion capture. We subtracted the event timing of the body segment motion algorithm from the event timing of visually identified events from recorded videos to compare differences between initial contact and toe-off detection techniques. We found an average shift of 0.53 frames (95% CI [-1.05, 2.11]) for initial contact and -1.06 frames (95% CI [-2.40, 0.27]) for toe-off. The algorithms were valid for identifying gait events. We recommend not shifting initial contact events but shifting the toe-off events one frame earlier when applying the algorithms to markerless AI running analyses.
Herrington, Dason | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Micah Garcia
Predicting the Successfulness of Matching Footsteps to Music While Running
We investigated factors that influenced the successfulness of increasing cadence for runners. We hypothesized that cadence manipulation would be more successful with a lower baseline cadence and change in song beat rate. We recruited runners to run on a treadmill at a comfortable speed. We estimated preferred cadence after a 5-minute baseline run. Runners then performed a 5-minute run while attempting to match their footsteps to a beat-adjusted song set at +5% of their preferred cadence. We performed a binary logistic regression to investigate if preferred cadence or change in song beat rate influenced the successfulness of increasing cadence. We observed that the successfulness of matching footsteps to the song was not significantly influenced by the runner’s preferred cadence (p=.86) or change in song beat rate (p=.99). Consideration of other factors such as perceived effort may be needed to predict the successfulness of cadence manipulation.
Lloyd, Kaleb | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Micah Garcia
Biomechanical Effects of Metronome vs Beat-Adjusted Music on Running Cadence
New applications allow music beats to be adjusted for a less monotonous cue compared to a metronome. It is unknown if music elicits similar changes to running form. We examined changes in peak hip, knee, and ankle angles while running when matching cadence to a metronome or beat-adjusted music. We hypothesized that changes in peak joint angles would be similar when matching cadence to a metronome or beat-adjusted music. Healthy runners ran on a treadmill, and we measured their baseline cadence using markerless motion capture. Participants then matched their cadence to a metronome or beat-adjusted music set at 5% above their baseline cadence. We observed a significant decrease in peak knee flexion when running to the metronome (p=.04) but no significant change when running to music. The lack of changes when running to beat-adjusted music suggests potential differences in neuromuscular function when responding to music compared to a metronome.
Roberts, Phoebe | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Micah Garcia
The Effectiveness and Perceived Challenges of Matching Cadence to a Metronome or Beat-Adjusted Music for Runners
We investigated the successfulness of increasing cadence while running to match footsteps to a metronome or beat-adjusted music and the perceived challenges these interventions. We hypothesized that the success rate would be similar between the conditions and the music condition will be preferred but more challenging. Participants ran on a treadmill at a comfortable speed and we measured their preferred cadence. Participants then attempted to match their cadence to a beat-adjusted song or metronome set at 5% higher than their preferred cadence. Participants completed a questionnaire to report the challenges of matching their footsteps to the beat for each condition. We found no significant difference in success rate (p=0.45), preferred condition (p=1.00), or perceived challenges (p=0.09-0.98) between the music and metronome conditions. Runners may select a metronome or beat-adjusted music to increase cadence, depending on their preference, since success rate and difficultness were similar.
PHYSICS (ASTRONOMY)
Roach, Josephine | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Austin Hinkel
Visualizing Disequilibrium: Exploring the Structure of the Milky Way at Various Length Scales
Previous work using the two-point correlation function has revealed the existence of substructure in the Milky Way Galaxy but has not localized these substructures. In particular, this poster presentation aims to visualize departures from a smooth distribution of stars at a number of distinct length scales. Using Python, we analyze data from the Gaia Space Telescope to determine pair counts of stars within a given distance, S. To isolate the departures from the expected distribution, we compare data from purportedly symmetric parts of the Galaxy against one another. Results clearly illustrate asymmetric clustering in the Galaxy’s structure.
PUBLIC HEALTH (GRADUATE)
Yurt, Kendra | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kaitlin Vollet-Martin | AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Environmental Justice: The Analysis of Prison Construction and Federal Superfund Sites on Inmate Physical Health
Over the last decade, prison populations have increased, prompting the influx of carceral facilities being built on toxic landscapes. This analysis explores the influence of federal Superfund sites on the inmate health condition through the examination of existing literature. These sources highlight the prominence of environmental racism, socio-economic disparities, and environmental degradation in surrounding communities. It was found that many who are in marginalized populations, such as those in prison, are affected by Superfund site chemicals, associating these environments with lower life expectancy and chronic illness. This research aims to uncover the ultimate effects of hazardous building sites on inmate physical well-being while iterating the public health impact, improvement of policy, and solutions to decreasing environmental injustice.
SOCIAL SCIENCES & PROFESSIONS
ECONOMY (DATA ANALYTICS)
Villarreal, Ezequiel | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Malcolm Robinson
Is the Probability of Being Self-Employed Related to the Business Climate Ranking?
I investigated the relationship between business climate rankings and self-employment rates in the United States, utilizing NFCS data and the “Freedom in the 50 States” index. Through a linear probability model, I assessed how state economic freedom correlates with self-employment. Results showed that favorable business climate has no significant impact on self-employment probability, contradicting common assumptions. Instead, demographic factors like age, gender, and education emerged as stronger predictors. These findings suggest policymakers should shift focus from state-level business policies to individual-level factors when promoting self-employment, questioning the utility of business climate indexes.
EDUCATIONAL STUDIES
Daniel, Lillie | Faculty Sponsor: Professor Shane Campbell | AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Assessing Environmental Education: Evaluating the Impacts on Student Knowledge and Attitudes About Ohio River Conservation
Environmental education lights a spark for lifelong lessons and a deeper appreciation for the environment around us. Field Stations are an integral piece of hands-on learning and offer students many benefits including access that might not otherwise be available to them. They contribute to critical thinking, new skills, and empowerment. The following study was conducted from May 2024 to July 2024 at the Thomas More University Biology Field Station in Campbell County, Kentucky. The purpose of the study was to determine the effectiveness of programming at increasing knowledge and positively shifting attitudes about Ohio River conservation. Program assessment is a valuable tool used to increase quality and make sure activities are meeting goals and objectives. Data is used to implement changes that improve student outcomes. A pre and post survey was created to collect data. After 11 field trips (158 participants) and one ECO STEM Camp (13 participants), the difference between pre and post surveys showed a statistically significant increase in both knowledge and positive attitude shift.
LAW / INTERNATIONAL STUDIES
Cutsinger, Kristina | Faculty Sponsor: Soran Tarkhani | AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Interference in Sovereign States
Foundations of non-interference are found first in the Treaty of Westphalia (1648) and reinforced through the International Court of Justice, and international conventions. Despite this, nations like the United States have repeatedly interfered in sovereign states using various reasons to justify it; such as democracy, economic interests, and human rights concerns. This paper examines U.S. interventions in Iran, Haiti, and Hong Kong to analyze the motivations behind these interventions and the alignment with international law. These case studies establish a pattern of interference strategically carried out in order to achieve political and economic interests of the U.S. rather than humanitarian necessity. This study argues that U.S. foreign policy has consistently undermined the principles of sovereignty that it claims to uphold. The study also explores the broader implications of interventionism on global stability and the legitimacy of international law in regulating state behavior.
POLITICAL SCIENCE
Cummins, Vivian | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Soran Tarkhani
Revolving Door of Recidivism
The United States has one of the highest recidivism rates among developed nations, with nearly two-thirds of released individuals reoffending within three years. Reentry programs are designed to reduce recidivism by addressing key barriers to reintegration, such as unemployment, housing instability, and lack of mental health support. However, these programs often fall short of their goals, contributing to a persistent cycle of incarceration. This study examines the effectiveness of reentry programs in the U.S., focusing on why these initiatives fail to produce lasting outcomes. Using a quantitative approach, including a literature review and data analysis, this research identifies structural, social, and policy-related factors that hinder program success. The findings offer insights into policy reforms that could enhance the reentry initiatives and contribute to a more rehabilitative justice system.
PSYCHOLOGY
Sollers, John, Mattassini Luca, & Mkosi, Malibongwe | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Taryn Wise
Predicting Sickle Cell Patients’ Locus of Control for Health via Mental Health Visits
What drives a person to seek help? One explanation psychologists look at is a mental process known as locus of control. Within that, two main types exist: internal and external locus of control. Rotter. For our study, we wanted to look into the effects that internal locus of control would have on sickle patients for healthcare assistance. In this study we surveyed 32 African-American who were diagnosed with sickle cell and we asked how they went about getting their treatment. We wanted to see how people with different levels is locus of control would effects if people would seek additional mental health services. If confirmed studies could look more into depth on how to help develop these locus of control.The Multidimensional Health Locus of Control scale (MHLC; Wallston et al., 1978) was used to measure an individual’s belief and/or perception that their health is controlled by themselves, chance, powerful others, other people, or doctors. To examine whether visits to mental health professionals have any predictability on patients’ form of locus of control for health (e.g., internal, doctor, other people, powerful others, chance), hierarchical linear regressions were conducted. The first model for every dependent variable, which ran demographic variables, including age and gender, was not significant. However, with the addition of visits to mental health professionals, the model predicting an internal locus of control for health became significant, explaining 39.2% of the variance. The other locus of control for health were not significantly predicted by patients’ visits to mental health professionals. The model predicting a locus of control for health contingent on a doctor was not significant with the addition of visits to mental health professionals, R2 = 0.140, Adj. R2 = 0.048, F(3, 28) = 1.516, p = 0.232.
Wefer, Josephine, Rice, Sarah, & Tucker, Ava | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Whitney Pugh
The Impact of Fidget Spinners on Stress and ADHD on Listening Comprehension
Previous research on the efficacy of fidget toys in mediating symptoms of ADHD and perceived stress has demonstrated to be conflicting and controversial. The current study examined the impact of a fidget spinner on comprehension, perceived stress, and heart rate during a listening comprehension task. There were 31 participants in the study aged 18-24 years old. During the study, participants were asked to complete the ASRS ADHD Diagnostic Questionnaire (Kessler et al., 2005) and the Dundee Stress State Questionnaire (Matthews et al., 1999) before listening to a short story. During the task, participants were randomly assigned to receive a fidget spinner. All participants in the study were fitted with a heart rate monitor for the duration of the study, and were informed that they would need to recall the information from the story on a comprehension assessment at the conclusion of the study. A 2×2 ANOVA was run to examine how ADHD symptoms and fidget spinners would impact listening comprehension. Results indicated that there was no significant main effect of fidget spinners, where those in the fidget spinner condition (M = 5.92, SD = 0.954) had a similar outcome as those in the no fidget spinner condition (M = 6.18, SD = 0.874), F(1, 20) = 1.62, p = .218). Additionally, the ADHD symptoms-by-fidget spinner interaction was nonsignificant, F(1,20) = 1.62, p = .218, with an r2of 0.169.
PSYCHOLOGY/CRIMINAL JUSTICE/LAW
Davis, Skylar & Gallagher, Chloe | Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Whitney Pugh
Higher Need for Cognition on Related Recall Effects
The current series of studies examines whether a person that has a higher need for cognition is capable of a higher recall on related wordpairs. Participants and undergraduate students from Thomas More University were given an online survey using the software Qualtrics and the Need for Cognition Scale (Cacioppo et al., 1984). Then participants were randomly shown a set of related or un-related word pairs for 30 seconds, and then told to recall as many pairs as they could. Participants were then shown a themed set of related or un-related word pairs for 30 seconds, and then told to recall as many pairs as they could. In the non-themed word-pairs there was a marginal difference between related and un-related pairings, possibly due to a small number of participants. A significant main effect was observed between related and un-related pairings, F(1,15) 7.015, p = 0.18, when the pairings were themed.
Ferrando, Asia | Faculty Sponsor: Professor Ellie Megerle
Differences Between Male and Female Murderers
The purpose of this literature review is understanding the differences between female and male murderers, through ten peer-reviewed articles. Five themes were analyzed: demographical differences, psychological differences, victimology, methods of the murder, and court processing. This analysis showed significant differences between the two sexes. The results indicate that females are more likely to have been abused in the past, use knives to murder known victims in the home, and have greater rates of attempted suicide. While males kill strangers in public, with firearms and showed a history of violence. While psychological differences and court processing showed no significant difference. While some limitations existed, like the outdatedness of the data and the different countries of the articles, this literature review presents significant differences between female and male murderers in some categories, while in others there is no difference at all. These findings, presented differences which could have an impact on understanding these types of murderers.
Congratulations to all Thomas More researchers and we would like to acknowledge the 2025 Award of Excellence judges:
SCIENCES AND MATHEMATICS
Sr. Mary Ethel Parrott, S.N.D., Provincial, Sisters of Notre Dame
Liz Fett, MS, Adjunct Professor, Environmental Science, Environmental Scientist/Aquatic Biologist, Sanitation District No. 1
Katrina Hlebiczki-Nare, MSc., Director of Educational Assessment and Teacher Support, Mathematics Department Chair, Newport Central Catholic
Nicolas Petroze, M.S., Biology, Thomas More University
Stephanie Synder Koch, Ph.D., Biology, Thomas More University
SOCIAL SCIENCES AND PROFESSIONS
Donna Bloemer, Alumna, History and Law
John Ernst, Ph.D., Benedictine Library & Director of Center for Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship, Academic Director of Faculty Development, Thomas More University
Cari Garriga, Ph.D., Foreign Language, Thomas More University
Sarah Gerkensmeyer, Ph.D., English, Thomas More University
Kristin Hornsby, MFA, Associate Director of Dual Enrollment and Transfer Pathways, Adjunct Assistant Professor II, Theater, Thomas More University
Eli White, Ph.D., Psychology, Thomas More University
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