18th Annual
Student Conference for
Research and Creative Arts
April 25 – April 27, 2012
Student Conference for Research and Creative Arts
University of Houston-Clear Lake
2700 Bay Area Blvd
Houston, TX 77058
studentconf@uhcl.edu
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents .......................................................................................................................................... 2
Conference Personnel ................................................................................................................................... 3
Directors ................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Conference Coordinators ....................................................................................................................................... 3
Faculty Advisor Emeritus ........................................................................................................................................ 3
Faculty Advisor ....................................................................................................................................................... 3
Faculty Advisory Committee .................................................................................................................................. 3
Thank You ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
Conference Background ................................................................................................................................ 4
Special Events ............................................................................................................................................... 5
Presentation Options .................................................................................................................................... 6
Conference Program ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Abstract Listings ...........................................................................................................................................10
Oral Presentation Abstracts ..........................................................................................................................16
Poster Presentation Abstracts ......................................................................................................................27
Roundtable Abstracts ...................................................................................................................................71
Symposium Abstracts ...................................................................................................................................72
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Conference Personnel
Directors
Michael Hunt, M.A.
Pilar Goyarzu, Ph.D.
Conference Coordinators
Linda Early
Roxanne Fabiani
Jeremy Mejia
Kyle Wofford
Lee Ann Zahn
Faculty Advisor Emeritus
David Malin, Ph.D.
Human Sciences and Humanities
Faculty Advisor
Stuart Larson, Ph.D.
Human Sciences and Humanities, Fine Arts
Faculty Advisory Committee
Magdy Akladios, Ph.D.
School of Science and Computer Engineering
Kathleen Garland, Ph.D.
School of Business
Donna Kirkwood, Ph.D.
School of Education
Samina Masood, Ph.D.
School of Science and Computer Engineering
Chad Wetterneck, Ph.D.
School of Human Sciences and Humanities
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Thank You
We thank all of the presenters, sponsors, evaluators, volunteers, Universities, Colleges, and other individuals and
organizations who contributed to the Conference. Special recognition goes to the Offices and Departments within the
University of Houston-Clear Lake:
Office of the President
Dr. William Staples, President
Office of the Provost
Dr. Carl Stockton, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
Student Services
Dr. Darlene Biggers, Associate Vice President of Student Services
School of Human Sciences and Humanities
Dr. Rick J. Short, Dean
School of Science and Computer Engineering
Dr. Zbigniew J. Czajkiewicz, Dean
School of Education
Dr. Dennis Spuck, Dean
School of Business
Dr. Wm. Theodore Cummings, Dean
Conference Background
The Student Conference on Research and Creative Arts at the University of Houston-Clear Lake began in 1994 under
the direction of psychology instructors Dr. Kyna Shelly and Michael Hunt. Understanding that their students who had
participated in research projects were hesitant to attend professional conferences, they agreed that a co-curricular
activity would provide students an opportunity to present their original work in a professional format and help prepare
them for their academic and professional careers.
The first conference consisting of 31 presentations by UHCL students has now grown into annual event with authors
from multiple colleges and universities.
The event is an interdisciplinary conference with students from fields such as Biology, Physics, Computer Science,
Psychology, Sociology, Education, Business, Fine Arts, and Creative Writing.
In 2012, 218 applications were accepted that represented over 450 authors and co-authors.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Special Events
Understanding Kabbalah
Yhuda Guez of the Kabbalah Center
University Sponsor: UHCL Foreign Language and English Enhancement Program
An introductory lecture to the teachings of the Kabbalah faith which has its roots in Judaism with the main topic relating
to ancient teachings to modern-day application
Curriculum Vitae Workshop
Chuck Crocker, University of Houston-Clear Lake
Workshop providing examples, tips and general advice to producing a noteworthy overview of one's experience and
job qualifications to potential employers.
Coffeehouse Session: Poetry and Animation
Presentation of original student poetry and graphical creations in an informal coffeehouse setting
Scruggs v. Snyder: A Mock Trial Demonstration of an Auto-Pedestrian Accident Case
Kasatkina, Liliya (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Stephen Anderson, Alma Avalos, Fred Bogar Jr, Jennifer Bogar,
Jimi Cebulla, Kate Gibbs, Melissa Harris, Zachary Markland, Pamela Murders, Paul Perez, Shawna Zeiss
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. James C. Benson
On July 11, 2010 six year old Sam Scruggs ran across a two lane highway and was struck by a car driven by Lynn
Snyder. Sam's parents allege that the driver is liable for Sam's injuries for failing to keep a proper lookout and for
going too fast. The driver denies any negligence and alleges that Sam was being improperly supervised by his parents
who entrusted Sam's supervision to his 15 year old sister. Two teams of Legal Studies majors will demonstrate each
phase of the trial in the case of Scruggs v. Snyder, from opening statement to closing argument and final verdict
before a presiding judge.
Opening Reception for UHCL Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition 2012
Costner, Lakita (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Angela Crane, Stephanie Flier, Sarah Fowler, Corey Beth LaBuff,
Erica Moses, Lindsay Rosenhagen, Michael St. Amand, Laurie Vincent, Kristy Watt, Zachary Yeager
Faculty Sponsor: Aleksandar Mladenovic (University of Arts in Belgrade, Serbia)
A presentation of 32 individual art pieces by students
Innocence Project of Texas Panel
Sponsors: Dr. Steven Egger, UHCL and Jeff Blackburn, Attorney, Founder and Chief Counsel
Two wrongly convicted men, Anthony Green and Cornelius Dupree, talk about how they served 27 and 30 years
respectively due to botched DNA analysis and evidence.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Presentation Options
All applications to the conference required a faculty sponsor who was familiar with the original work of the student (s).
Presenters received an evaluation following their presentations. The Conference and all presentations were open to
the public, free of charge.
Presentation options included the following:
1. Symposia
Topics are selected by faculty. Students present their research on the specific topic with a question and
answer period following.
2. Oral
Students present their work orally in 15-minute time-slots that included a question-and-answer period.
A pc was available to the presenter for PowerPoint or other supportive use.
3. Poetry
Students read original poems, memoirs, and other literary materials in an informal coffeehouse setting
4. Roundtables
Topics are selected by faculty. Students come prepared to discuss their opinions based on their research.
Roundtables are typically 30 - 60 minutes.
5. Poster Presentations
Students present their work in a poster format and are available during their poster session (1.5 - 2 hours) to
address questions and comments from interested conference attendees. Posters remain displayed for a
number of days following the Conference.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Conference Program
Wednesday, April 25
8:30 am – 7:00 pm
Registration
10:00 am – 10:45 am
Oral Session 1
Environmental Science
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Oral Session 2
Gender
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Lunch
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Special Event 1
Kabbalah
Moderator: Yehuda Guez, Kabbalah Centre International, Los Angeles, CA
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Roundtable 1
Texas Advocates Supporting Services for Equal Love-TASSEL
Chair: Dr. Christine Kovic, UHCL
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Special Event 2
Workshop: Curriculum Vitae
Speaker: Chuck Crocker, UHCL
Symposium 1
Knowing the Self and Others: A Narrative of Origins
Chair: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian, UHCL
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Symposium 2
OSHA Standards for General and Construction Industries
Chair: Dr. Magdy Akladios, UHCL
Moved to Tue, Apr 24
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Symposium 3
TheYear of 1493
Chair: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian, UHCL
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Symposium 4
TheExpansion of Target To Canada
Chair: Dr. Alix Valenti, UHCL
Poster Session I
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Symposium 5
Gender, Media, and Mysticism in the Homogenocene
Chair: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian, UHCL
Special Event 3
Coffee House Session: Poetry and Animation
Symposium 6
Animation and Film Festival
Chair: Anne Henry, UHCL
Thursday, April 26
8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Registration
8:00 am – 10:00 am
Breakfast
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Thursday, April 26, Continued
8:00 am – 6:45 pm
Symposium 7
Environmental Safety and Health ePresentations, view only
Chair: Dr. Magdy Akladios, UHCL
9:30 am – 11:00 am
Oral Session 3
Psychology
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Symposium 8
History of Graffiti
Sponsors: Dr. John Britt, Lee College
Dr. Kathleen Sydnor, Lee College
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Oral Session 4
History and Philosophy
10:30 am – 11:30 am
Oral Session 5
Technology
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Lunch
11:15 am – 12:00 pm
Oral Session 6
11:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Poster Session II
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Roundtable 2
Immigration, Diversity, and Ethnography in Houston
Chair: Dr. Christine Kovic, UHCL
1:00 pm – 1:45 pm
Roundtable 3
Waking from the Dream; Anti-Immigration Sentiment and the Dream Act
Chair: Dr. John Britt, Lee College
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Symposium 9
Health Administration 1
1:45 pm – 2:30 pm
Oral Session 7
Civil Rights
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Oral Session 8
Linguistics
Roundtable 4
TDCJ Non-Traditional Reflections on the Non-Western
Chair: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian, UHCL
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Symposium 10
Health Administration 2
3:00 pm – 3:45 pm
Oral Session 9
Criminal Justice
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Symposium 11
Poetry from Prison
Chair: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian, UHCL
4:00 pm – 5:15 pm
Oral Session 10
Education
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Special Event 4
Scruggs vs. Snyder: A Mock Trial Demonstration of an Auto - Pedestrian
Accident Case
Sponsor: Dr. James Benson, UHCL
5:00 pm – 7:15 pm
Symposium 12
Fraud and Corruption
Chair: Dr. Mattie Porter, UHCL
Visual Arts and Music
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Thursday, April 26, Continued
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Special Event
Opening Reception for UHCL Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition 2012
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Conference Remarks
Dr. Staples, President, UHCL
Special Event 6
Innocence Project of Texas Panel
Sponsors: Dr. Steven Egger, UHCL
Jeff Blackburn, Attorney, Founder and Chief Counsel
Symposium 13
Ergonomic Methods & Analysis Techniques
Chair: Dr. Magdy Akladios, UHCL
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Friday, April 27
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Registration
Symposium 14
Amazon Symposium
Chair: Dr. Cindy Howard, UHCL
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Abstract Listings
Garifuna Dance and Music ................................................................................................................................................................ 16
Galveston's Balinese Room Presents Bootleggers, Big Bands, High Rollers, and Headliners .......................................................... 16
Teambuilding and Leadership styles of Project Managers, and their impact on Project Management. .......................................... 17
A Momentary Lapse of Reason: Visualizations of Pink Floyd ............................................................................................................ 17
Psychometric Properties of the MEIM in a National Sample of African American Adults ................................................................ 17
The scholastic benefits of Physical Activity ....................................................................................................................................... 18
Princess Missy and the Mysterious Monster..................................................................................................................................... 18
A Flexible Cost Effective Approach for 4g with the abet of WiMAX .................................................................................................. 19
The Role of Values in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder ..................................................................................................................... 19
Rhetoric, Social Skills, and the Engineer ............................................................................................................................................ 19
The Agitators of Huntsville, Texas ..................................................................................................................................................... 20
Beyond Confines: Women in Aphra Behn's Novellas ........................................................................................................................ 20
An Exploration of Imagery in Three Original Works .......................................................................................................................... 20
Gender and Identity in Visual Arts .................................................................................................................................................... 21
Code Red ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
How Do You Spell /ʃəʊl/?: Orthographical Differences Across Fourth Graders at Three SES Levels................................................. 21
The Time to Fight: Women's Participation in the Arab Spring .......................................................................................................... 22
Does state mandated testing obstruct curriculum development and learning (TEKS)? ................................................................... 22
Victorian Medievalism vs. Steampunk: All That is Old is New Again ................................................................................................. 22
The Reformation Conflict over the Veneration of Relics: a Conflict over the Relation of the Material to the
Spiritual ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 23
Watchmen: Morality and Social Responsibility ................................................................................................................................. 23
Ruiz v. Estelle: Rapid Reforms of the Texas Prison System ............................................................................................................... 23
Neurobiology of Addiction in Layman's Terms .................................................................................................................................. 24
Examining Self-Compassion and Experiential Avoidance in Symptom Dimensions of OCD .............................................................. 24
Distress Associated With Sexual Orientation Obsessions in OCD ..................................................................................................... 24
Interaction Increasing Retention: Our Need for a Community-Based Classroom ............................................................................. 25
The Waco Tornado of 1953: The Ironies, the Stories, and Remembering ........................................................................................ 25
Divergent Discourses? ....................................................................................................................................................................... 26
A Comparison Between Real Time Remote Supervision and In Vivo Supervision Techniques in Direct Care Staff .......................... 27
The True Impact ................................................................................................................................................................................ 27
Muslim Youth Identity and Volunteerism with American-Islamic Organizations ............................................................................. 28
Cerebral ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 28
Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in the Work Place ............................................................................................ 28
Implications of Police Stress and Coping: A Local Study ................................................................................................................... 28
Laptop users: The effects of observing others posture and task performance ................................................................................ 29
The Effects of Receptive-Expressive Sequencing on the Emergence of Feature, Function, and Class .............................................. 29
Voting Probability based on Age, Gender and Level of Education .................................................................................................... 30
Effect of Oil Dispersants on Petroleum Solubility and Volatilization ................................................................................................ 30
Effects of High School Parenting Programs on Adult Functioning..................................................................................................... 31
Influences of Body Image Dissatisfaction on Partnered Sexual Activity ........................................................................................... 31
Characterization of A Fusion Enzyme Combining Pfu Polymerase and dUTPase .............................................................................. 31
The effect of personality on academic, job, and life satisfaction ...................................................................................................... 32
The Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Counterproductive Work Behaviors ........................................................... 32
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Sensory Diets in an SLC classroom .................................................................................................................................................... 32
Occupational Fatalities: A Comparison Study Between The United States and Japan ..................................................................... 33
Video Games & Their Impact on Behavior ........................................................................................................................................ 33
Sexting and Picture Sexting ............................................................................................................................................................... 34
Bedtime Behaviors in Children .......................................................................................................................................................... 34
A Comparison of Unequal and Equal Delay Intervals on Common Measures of Delay Discounting ............................................... 35
Personality Types and Social Media Use ........................................................................................................................................... 35
Robotic Control using Gesture and Voice .......................................................................................................................................... 35
Fluid Properties in Electromagnetic Fields ........................................................................................................................................ 36
Exploring Relationships Between Spirituality, Religiosity, and Sexual Satisfaction in Homosexual Individuals ................................ 36
Sibling Violence: A Social Learning Perspective ................................................................................................................................ 36
The Universe Within .......................................................................................................................................................................... 37
Teacher Knowledge of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Increasing their Knowledge in a Timely
Manner ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 37
Restaurant Concept and Advertising Portfolio .................................................................................................................................. 38
Applying cloud computing technology in building university laboratory .......................................................................................... 38
Discrimination Against Working and Stay-At-Home Mothers ........................................................................................................... 38
Literacy Strategies for the Visual Spatial Learner .............................................................................................................................. 39
Mentoring Programs and Career Advancement ............................................................................................................................... 39
The effect of infant massage on infant sleep patterns: A case study of early intervention on an infant with sleep
disturbance................................................................................................................................................................................. 39
Standard Deviation of EMG Data: Comparing Measurements of Muscle Movement ...................................................................... 40
The Threshold for Behavioral Change to Keyboard Shortcuts .......................................................................................................... 40
The Role of the Licensed Specialist in School Psychology in Behavior Response to Intervention .................................................... 41
Alcohol and Drug Treatment Demographics ..................................................................................................................................... 41
Social Media's Effect on College Students ......................................................................................................................................... 41
Play and Procedure: Using Verbal and Visual Prompts with Play Based Interventions to Positively Impact the
Childs Ability to Recognize Whose Turn It Is When Playing. ...................................................................................................... 42
The Determination of Total Mercury in Offshore Reef Fish Based on Habitat Preference and Geographical
Location ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 42
Examining the Influence of Chronic Pain Conditions on Intimacy between Couples ........................................................................ 42
Workspace Design and Employee Engagement and Commitment ................................................................................................... 43
Is our scoiety lyrically influenced? ..................................................................................................................................................... 44
An Examination of the Depression and Anxiety Symptoms Experienced in Grandparents Raising Grandchildren .......................... 44
Parents' Perceptions and Mediation of Cyberbullying ...................................................................................................................... 44
Advance Notice and Transitions: Comparing 2-min advance notice and 10-s advance notice plus differential
reinforcement of alternative behavior with and without extinction ......................................................................................... 45
Teacher Outlook of Accelerated Reading Program ........................................................................................................................... 45
Obsessive-Compulsive Intrusive Thoughts and Clinician Stigma....................................................................................................... 45
Race, Crime, and the Public's Perception .......................................................................................................................................... 46
A Snowboarder's Odyssey ................................................................................................................................................................. 46
An Evaluation of Coastal Storm Damage to Increase Community Resilience on the Upper Texas Gulf Coast ................................. 46
Religious identity priming and prosocial behavior ............................................................................................................................ 47
Musical Tempo and Musical Lyrics Effect on Aggression .................................................................................................................. 47
The Creation of a gene expression profile of the soft coral Eunicea fusca ....................................................................................... 47
Objects in Space: Game Programming With ActionScript 3 .............................................................................................................. 48
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
The Assessment of Generalization and Stimulus Control in Social Skills Training for Children with Autism .................................... 48
STAR+PLUS Waiver Upgrades Evaluation Project .............................................................................................................................. 48
The Effects of Chair Ergonomics Information of Musculoskeletal Disorders Awareness .................................................................. 49
Cloud Computing for Businesses ....................................................................................................................................................... 50
Analysis of Trends in Workers Compensation Claims and the Development of Occupational Safety Programs to
Mitigate Worker Injuries ............................................................................................................................................................ 50
Production of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) by Escherichia coli K12 using Palm Oil as the
Carbon Source ............................................................................................................................................................................ 51
Therapists and Therapists-in-Training, Differences in Risk-Taking and In-Session Focus ................................................................. 51
Effective Treatments used by Occupational Therapist for Sensory Processing Disorders ................................................................ 51
The Impact of the FCPA on Chinese Business.................................................................................................................................... 52
Psychosocial Stress Effects on Task Performance ............................................................................................................................. 52
How does working affect a students GPA? ....................................................................................................................................... 52
The effect of nicotine withdrawal on sleep quantity and quality in the rat ...................................................................................... 53
An Assessment of Error Correction Procedures in Children with Autism ......................................................................................... 53
Evaluation of the Relationship between pH and Tannin-Lignin Concentrations Among Natural and Urban Sites
on the Rio Negro, Amazonas, Brazil ........................................................................................................................................... 53
The Importance of Women in Non-Western Texts ........................................................................................................................... 54
Does Relationship Type Matter in Regard to Sexual Behaviors and Emotional Experience? ............................................................ 54
Sexual Intrusive Thoughts, Religiosity, and Sexual Identity .............................................................................................................. 55
Does Sex Offender Treatment in Texas Prisons Lower Recidivism by Increasing Self-Control? Further Exploring
Gottfredson and Hirschis Self-Control Stability Hypothesis ....................................................................................................... 55
Is Short Term Memory Effected by the Availability of Resources? ................................................................................................... 56
The Social NOTwork: The Effects of Social Media Use in the Workplace on Individual Workplace Engagement
and Organizational Commitment ............................................................................................................................................... 56
Correlation between Religiosity, Spirituality, and Support towards Termination of Life ................................................................. 57
A Criminal's Future: Punishment or Rehabilitation ........................................................................................................................... 57
The Use of Facebook and its Relations With Jealousy and Relationship Satisfaction ....................................................................... 57
Analysis and Assessment of an Ergonomic computer chair .............................................................................................................. 58
Empowering English Language Learners to Succeed......................................................................................................................... 58
Early Childhood Special Educators Perceptions of Inclusive Educational Practices: A Comparison of
Paraprofessionals and Special Educators Attitudes. ................................................................................................................. 58
How can technology benefit children with a communication disorder with ASD? ........................................................................... 59
Photo Color Spectrum ....................................................................................................................................................................... 59
Comparison of Different Types of Harnesses for Comfort Fit and Development of Symptoms of Suspension
Trauma ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 59
Developing a Perception of Law Enforcement .................................................................................................................................. 60
A study of parent's view of the social struggles a child goes through in a language immersion setting. ........................................ 60
Income Inequality in America and the Global Economic Justice Movement .................................................................................... 60
Egypt: A Case Study of Water Scarcity in Developing Nations .......................................................................................................... 60
Influences on Views of Infidelity ....................................................................................................................................................... 61
Attitudes towards Women Fighting in Combat ................................................................................................................................. 61
The Impact of Globalization on Surrogacy: Renting Wombs in India ................................................................................................ 62
Promoting Generalization of Teacher Skills: Evaluation of a Training Program to Decrease Problem Behavior in
the Classroom............................................................................................................................................................................. 62
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Evaluating the Effects of Positive and Negative Reinforcement with Escape-Maintained Problem Behavior
during Haircuts ........................................................................................................................................................................... 62
Effects of a Walking Program utilizing Pedometers on Health Predictors and Quality of Life at a Residential Care
Facility for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities ................................................................................... 63
Relationship between job satisfaction and stress for middle managers in the workplace ............................................................... 63
Inattentional Blindness and Bullying ................................................................................................................................................. 63
Caregiver Preference for Reinforcement-Based Behavioral Interventions ....................................................................................... 64
An Investigation of Gender Bias in Job Advertisements for Management Positions ........................................................................ 64
Evaluation of Efficacy and Assessment of Preference for Teaching Applications on an iPad® ......................................................... 65
Individualism vs. Apple ...................................................................................................................................................................... 65
Regulation of Nitric Oxide Synthesis and Its Role In Male Infertility ................................................................................................. 65
Does society feel safer with or without firearms? ............................................................................................................................ 66
Experiential Avoidance in Obsessive-Compulsive Symptom Dimensions ......................................................................................... 66
General Education Teachers' Attitudes about Inclusion ................................................................................................................... 66
Personality and gender differences among college students, in identifying cyber-sexual harassment through
social networks........................................................................................................................................................................... 67
Comic Book Feminists: Understanding Feminist Theory Through Narrative Artwork ...................................................................... 68
From Personal to Therapeutic: Therapist Factors of Intimacy and Disclosure .................................................................................. 68
Correlations of system usability rating and enjoyability of a statistics simulation ........................................................................... 69
The Relation Between Cluster B Symptoms and Internet Pornography Usage................................................................................. 69
Examining the effects of iLS on the Early Start Denver Model: A case study of early intervention on a toddler
with ASD ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 69
An examination of the relationship between birth order and goal orientation. .............................................................................. 70
Shipyard's Effects on Local Communities Environmental Quality ..................................................................................................... 70
Waking from the Dream; Anti-Immigration Sentiment and the Dream Act ..................................................................................... 71
Non-Traditional Reflections on the Non-Western: A Humanities Roundtable from our Students working on a
Bachelors Degree from Prison .................................................................................................................................................... 71
Immigration, Diversity, and Ethnography in Houston ....................................................................................................................... 71
Texas Advocates Supporting Services for Equal Love-TASSEL ........................................................................................................... 72
Scruggs v. Snyder: A Mock Trial Demonstration of an Auto-Pedestrian Accident Case ....................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Carbon Capture and Storage ............................................................................................................................................................. 72
The Understanding of Pollution Prevention ...................................................................................................................................... 72
Gender, Media and Mysticism in the Homogenocene ...................................................................................................................... 73
Audit of a Construction Site .............................................................................................................................................................. 73
OSHA; A First Hand Look at How to Make Construction Safer .......................................................................................................... 73
The Keystone Pipeline - - Does It Benefit America? .......................................................................................................................... 74
Global Warming: And It's Impending Implications ............................................................................................................................ 74
Hydraulic Fracturing .......................................................................................................................................................................... 75
Knowing the Self and the Other: A Narrative of Origins ................................................................................................................... 75
Benzene and Benzene Exposure ....................................................................................................................................................... 75
Birthday Balloon ................................................................................................................................................................................ 75
Ecological Issues of Neotropical Rainforests ..................................................................................................................................... 76
The Year of 1493 ............................................................................................................................................................................... 76
The Expansion Of Target To Canada.................................................................................................................................................. 77
Soil Vapor Extraction ......................................................................................................................................................................... 77
Hydraulic Fracturing and the Environment ....................................................................................................................................... 77
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10 Principles of Photoreal 3D ............................................................................................................................................................ 77
Title: Ergonomic Evaluation of Johnson Space Center Water and Food Analytical Laboratory ........................................................ 78
OSHA Compliance Chemical Facility Structured Audit ...................................................................................................................... 78
Environmental Restoration ............................................................................................................................................................... 78
Waste dispensed by the medical industry and its effects on the environment ................................................................................ 79
SEC v. JBI ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 79
Houston Graffiti as Social Criticism ................................................................................................................................................... 80
The UK Bribery Act 2010 -- FCPA on Steroids? .................................................................................................................................. 80
Disabled Paitient Transfer Board ....................................................................................................................................................... 80
Gonzo247: Heart of Graffiti ............................................................................................................................................................... 81
The loss of mechanical integrity within our infrastructure ............................................................................................................... 81
Impact of Ergonomic Equipment on Repetitive Injuries ................................................................................................................... 82
Prenatal Education on Childhood Safety Issues ................................................................................................................................ 82
Autotransfusion: Emergency Care In Healthcare Of Nigeria ............................................................................................................. 82
Meta-analysis of Physician Alignment Alternatives .......................................................................................................................... 83
Romancing Pocahontas ..................................................................................................................................................................... 84
Constructed Wetlands ....................................................................................................................................................................... 84
Animation Symposium and Festival .................................................................................................................................................. 85
Blast Me to Free ................................................................................................................................................................................ 85
Rising trends in the Quality of Healthcare......................................................................................................................................... 85
Ethical Issues in Neonatal Care-A Global Perspective ....................................................................................................................... 86
Coastal Erosion & Conservation in Louisiana .................................................................................................................................... 86
The Negative Consequences of Hydraulic Fracturing ........................................................................................................................ 86
Bucket Elevator Conveyor Safe Work Procedures............................................................................................................................. 87
The Fall .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 87
The health related technology that should definitely be present on board merchant ships. ........................................................... 87
Obsolete Healthcare Technology Related Equipment ...................................................................................................................... 88
The Wetlands: EPA's Current Regulations and How They Can Improve To Protect a Diminishing Resource ................................... 88
Construction Safety: The process of Auditing a Site as an OSHA Compliance Officer ...................................................................... 89
Kickback Schemes .............................................................................................................................................................................. 89
Construction Site Inspection ............................................................................................................................................................. 89
Harmful Bacteria in Wastewater Treatment Facilities ...................................................................................................................... 90
Optimizing the design of Lawn Trimmers to diminish Cumulative Trauma Disorders ...................................................................... 90
Ergonomic Assessment of Radiology Screening Rooms for a Breast Cancer Center ......................................................................... 90
Ozone Depletion ................................................................................................................................................................................ 91
Biomass Recovery and Treatment of Dairy Effluent by Spirulina Platensis ....................................................................................... 91
PSM in Construction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 91
Melting of Himalayas ......................................................................................................................................................................... 91
Poetry from the Prison ...................................................................................................................................................................... 91
Breach of Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) ............................................................................................................................... 92
Hispanic Influence on Graffiti in Texas .............................................................................................................................................. 92
Contamination of Galveston Bay ....................................................................................................................................................... 92
The Texas Water Problem after the Drought of 2012 ....................................................................................................................... 93
OSHA and Construction Safety Inspection ........................................................................................................................................ 93
Healthcare Technology Onboard Passenger Airplanes ..................................................................................................................... 93
Waste Management .......................................................................................................................................................................... 94
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Audit of A Construction Site .............................................................................................................................................................. 94
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act-The Mario Covino Case ..................................................................................................................... 94
Robotics in Healthcare Industry -- Current and Future Prospects .................................................................................................... 95
Global Warming and the New Science for/against it. ....................................................................................................................... 95
Job Safety Analysis in the Industrial Industry .................................................................................................................................... 95
"Departure" ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 96
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch ....................................................................................................................................................... 96
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Oral Presentation Abstracts
Baldon, Stacey (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christine Kovic
Garifuna Dance and Music
This project explores traditional and contemporary Garifuna dance and music. These traditions are being explored to
discover the background and cultural significance that dance and music has on this culture. At large, there will be
exploration regarding the cultural signficance of dance and music to all cultures of the African Diaspora and how they
are all related.
Dabney, Cheryl (Lee College)
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. John Britt
Galveston's Balinese Room Presents Bootleggers, Big Bands, High Rollers, and
Headliners
In 1910, two young Sicilian brothers, Rosario (Rose) and Salvatore (Sam) Maceo, boarded a ship for Galveston Island,
bringing with them their hopes of claiming the American dream. They first worked as barbers, but soon learned
prohibition had created a more profitable business. When the brothers had garnered enough profit from bootlegging, they purchased their first restaurant, The Chop Suey. There would be many more businesses built by the
Maceos with each improving from the last, all complete with dining, dancing, and gambling. Through the brothers'
strength, leadership, business savvy, and humanitarian-filled spirit, they would transform the island to an exceptional
destination that sparkled and shined, as though the sands of its beaches were created from gold and diamond dust.
As the entire nation struggled through the Depression Era and World War II, people hung on to anything offering the
possibility of escapism. The Maceo brothers knew if the right atmosphere is created, combined with talented
musicians and singers, an audience is able to forget even the most horrible of times. Incorporating only the best, The
Balinese Room was created, providing a Shangri-La for visitors from across the country and a cure for the people of
the Island. No other club in the nation compared; twenty-three years would pass before Las Vegas would have its
first hotel or casino. The Maceos knew the top names in the entertainment field brought with them fans from all over
the country, and those fans would spend their money in Galveston causing its businesses and citizens to prosper.
With the building of the Balinese Room, the brothers created life-boats on which the city of Galveston could survive
and thrive while other cities and states drowned under the waves of the pounding assaults brought by those trying,
harsh times. Althought the club was renowned for its decor, food, service, and gambling room, the most infamous
and defining feature was the six-hundred-foot pier the club was built upon. The pier was the Maceo brother's
weapon for outwitting their nemesis, the Texas Ranger. Periodically, Houston-based Texas Rangers Company A,
captained by Hardy Purvis, would raid the Galveston gambling clubs. To prepare for the raids, the staff routinely
rehearsed the Maceo stratagem which turned the illegal gambling room into an innocent recreation room in a mere
thirty seconds. The Maceos' strategy kept the club untouched by the law for fifteen years. The historical significance
of the Balinese Room was always known by the generations of Galveston residents and the countless visitors from
around the country. In 2006, official recognition was given when the Balinese Room was added to the National
Register of Historic Places. Then, in sharp contrast, on September 13, 2008-a date etched in the hearts of all who
cherished the club-Galveston Island was unceremoniously hit with the most devastating hurricane witnessed the past
century. Hurricane Ike, with a power no one could have imagined, swept the beloved Balinese Room from the
Galveston landscape, burying the fractured remains in the deep Gulf waters. When the sun re-emerged, all that
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remained were pilings in the water that once held the "Ranger Run," and on the sidewalk where the Balinese once
welcomed its patrons, a wooden structure displaying the well-earned historical marker. Having survived storms and
hurricanes for over seventy years, everyone believed the building was an unmovable force. But everything has its
own time and place under the stars, and the Balinese Room, with its once starlit ceiling, had served its season,
providing memories that spanned generations, connecting hearts and healing souls with its music. Now, at the corner
of 21st Street and Seawall Boulevard, there stands a lone marker, reminding all to cherish that which is not forever.
Dhomne, Sudarshan (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Sharon Hall
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sharon Hall
Teambuilding and Leadership styles of Project Managers, and their impact on Project
Management.
In this research, we studied the different Teambuilding and Leadership styles of Project Managers, and their impact
on Project Management. The Paper talks about the four Teambuilding styles, which are Reactive Stimulator(RS),
Logical Processor (LP), Hypothetical Analyzer (HA), and Relational Innovator (RI). The relationship of these styles to
Project Management Criteria is also discussed in the study. The leadership style is one of the most important success
factors for project managers. A project manager should select the correct leadership style based on the project and
team requirement. In this study, we came across different leadership styles of project managers in areas like
Decision Making, Activity Management, and Resource Management. Finally, this research explains the impact of
Teambuilding and Leadership styles on a project, and also helps to understand when to apply these styles for a
successful project management.
Dumesnil, Blake (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Stuart Larson
A Momentary Lapse of Reason: Visualizations of Pink Floyd
One of the most valuable skills a graphic designer can have is a natural intuition into the message a client would like
to convey through their corporate identity. In order to create the most accurate visual representation of a client's
branding, the designer must be able to visually interpret what the client stands for. To capture such ingenuity
required of a professional graphic designer, this graduate capstone project experiments with the concept of using
twelve songs from the catalogue of progressive rock band Pink Floyd to create a series of individual artworks that
best represent the messages behind the music. Through the titles of the songs, along with their lyrics and sounds,
each artwork creates an atmospheric visualization of the meanings behind each song in order to draw the viewer
further into the surrealistic experience of the sounds and storytelling of Pink Floyd.
Duque, Gerardo (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Monnica Williams, Kevin Chapman
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Chad Wetterneck
Psychometric Properties of the MEIM in a National Sample of African American Adults
Ethnic identity is a multifaceted construct consisting of how people commit and develop a sense of belonging to
their culture. The behaviors that apply to the cultures customs, and the feelings they express towards their heritage
are also important factors in ethnic identity development (Phinney, 1990; Roberts et al., 1999). The Multigroup
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Ethnic Identity Measure (MEIM; Phinney, 1992) is one of the most widely used measures for this purpose. Even
though studies have explored the psychometric implications of this measure across culture, some cultures have been
represented more than others or have been studied under very narrow conditions. Such is the case of studies
involving African American samples. These studies have usually involved adolescents or young adults only, and are
not part of a geographically representative sample. (Avery, 2007; Reese et al., 1998; Roberts et al., 1999) Therefore,
the purpose of the current study is to observe differences in responses to the MEIM within a geographically
representative African American adult sample. The survey was available online and the final sample consisted of
non-Hispanic African American (n = 242) and European American participant (n = 56). Respondents comprised a
geographically representative US sample. The 16-item ethnic identity subscale was utilized and the position of the
MEIM in the protocol was counter-balanced, appearing either at the beginning of the survey or at the end. An
independent samples t-test was used to analyze the data collected. The results showed a significant difference in the
exploration subscale of the MEIM between participants in the Southern region and participants from West, Midwest,
and Northeast geographic locations. Results, albeit not significant, also showed that MEIM total score and the
affirmation and belonging subscale had a trend in mean differences between these groups. These results indicate
that Southern African Americans may be more engaging in the exploration of their ethnic identity, and a trend to
develop stronger senses of affirmation and belonging than those living in other regions of the US. More attention
can be brought to clinicians in these geographical areas to observe ethnic identity as an important construct to
assess when culturally sensitive needs are present. Further directions and implications will be discussed.
Garcia, Eric (Laredo Community College)
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. Daniel McInnis
The scholastic benefits of Physical Activity
In recent studies physical activity does not just promote health but also promotes stimulation to learn. I will conduct
studies upon student ranging from the 1st grade to the 10th grade. With these studies I will be looking for the
willingness to learn, assertiveness to participate, and body posture. These three details that I will be looking for
exemplify the benefits of physical activity. The research will be used for my thesis. With this information, I plan to
influence government to add physical activity to all grade levels as well as colleges and business. This information will
create a more productive and healthy society.
Hebert, Brandy (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Stuart Larson
Princess Missy and the Mysterious Monster
With the growing trend of princess gear targeting young females, girls are inundated with images of unattainable
beauty. This illustrated children's book depicts the story of a spectacled princess who journeys to find self
acceptance. Through the attempt to save the local village from a mysterious monster, Princess Missy meets new
friends and discovers the value of diversity. "Princess Missy and the Mysterious Monster" is a series of digital
illustrations that target 5-8 year old girls, and seeks to fill a gap in the representation of an independent and
imperfect princess.
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Karey, Satya Prakash (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Sharon Perkins Hall
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sharon P. Hall
A Flexible Cost Effective Approach for 4g with the abet of WiMAX
Human requirements are growing like never before and the drawbacks of the current 3G technology have forced
researchers to come up with more sophisticated and efficient technology. 4G Cellular and Broadband wireless access
(BWA) are perched to replace 3G.Implementing 3G properties with 4G needs authentication which cannot be done.
So in order to replace 3G with a 4G technology its an arduous task and may result in complete removal of 3G
technology. WiMAX offers the best solution to implement 4G. In this paper we show why replacing a 3G to 4G is a
must and how WiMAX can offer the best solution in a cost effective way.
Lee, Eric (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Chad Wetterneck
The Role of Values in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a serious problem affecting millions of individuals that, unfortunately is not
effectively treated much of the time. Further research is needed to better understand and improve the treatment of
OCD. Little research has been done on the effect of a person's values on their anxiety levels. Preliminary studies
provide evidence that values may be an important factor when treating individuals with anxiety disorders. The
current study examined the role that values play in the severity of OCD. It examined value domains (e.g., family,
work, education) as well as specific values (e.g., self-compassion, pride, courage). Data were collected from an online
survey of over 100 individuals who reported OCD symptoms. Preliminary results show significant correlations
between some values and OCD severity. This study also examines the possibility that individuals with OCD may not
have developed some values that could potentially reduce anxiety and OCD symptoms.
Martinez, Marisa (College of the Mainland)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Dalel Serda
Rhetoric, Social Skills, and the Engineer
This paper seeks to uncover and reveal the connections between the rhetorical processes and social skills, specifically
in engineers but the conclusions can also be broadened. Questions and statements are presented with concern
towards the stereotypical nature of the engineer or scientist and why these statements may or may not be true.
Much proof is also presented that shows that the communication (or lack thereof) of engineers has become a huge
deal of concern and many researchers are trying to come up with the best way to solve these problems. Although
this paper may not necessarily solve the engineers communication problem; instead, it emphasizes the value in
helping engineers be aware of their innate abilities to think rhetorically and how those skills can aid better
communicators in their work places.
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McGuyer, Lynna (Lee College)
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. John Britt
The Agitators of Huntsville, Texas
Although the fourteenth amendment, which establishes equal rights for all men, passed in 1868; it took over one
hundred years for the African American residents of Huntsville Texas to experience its reality. Many of those
responsible for this freedom have been called instigators, non-conformists and sometimes agitators. Whatever term
is used when describing such individuals, one must look at the purpose of their battle. If the ultimate goal is for a
greater good, the change may be worth fighting for. Change does not come without sacrifice however, and this can
be the catalyst for giving up the battle. Yet, there are those pioneers who seem to be born with an inherent nature to
promote change and giving up is not in their vocabulary.Ha-You, an acronym for Huntsvilles Action For Youth, was an
example of these determined groups. This assembly of young African Americans decided in the spring of 1965 that
racial discrimination was no longer acceptable in their town and they began an eight day pilgrimage for equality that
would last for several months. An account of the sit-ins, stand-ins, protests and public demonstrations, will show how
one small group of individuals changed the course for freedom and set a new precidence of equal treatment for all in
the Huntsville community.
Mouliatis, Chrisoula (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Klett
Beyond Confines: Women in Aphra Behn's Novellas
Aphra Behn wrote plays, poetry, and fiction, but my presentation will focus on two of her novellas: The Fair Jilt (1688)
and The History of the Nun (1689), which have been largely overlooked by scholars and students of her work. The
male Restoration rake was a popular figure of the time period, and society enjoyed new sexual freedoms. However,
overt expressions of female sexuality were considered taboo. Behns female characters, Miranda and Isabella, faced
many obstacles on their paths to happiness. Society judged these women harshly because they disrupted the norm:
men lived in a public sphere of the world whereas women occupied private spaces. Because Behns heroines lived
publicly, not only voicing their desires, but acting on them as well, society condemned them. In my presentation, I
argue that Miranda and Isabella appropriate the role of the Restoration male rake, I show that Behn created a
complex array of roles for women, and I assert that her male characters are feminized as ruined men. In this project, I
conclude that Behns ambivalent attitude about female sexuality in her novels is a result of her position as a
professional, writing woman.
O'Donnell, Ethan (Lone Star College-North Harris)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Katharine Caruso
An Exploration of Imagery in Three Original Works
This project focuses on using imagery in creative writing as figurative language, as central object, and as concluding
statement. Original work will be presented to illustrate these techniques. The original works include: "Modern Tool,"
An Idea for a Book," and "All for Profit."
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Reed, Rachel (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Rebecca Garcia-Franco, Catherine Louvier
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jane Chin Davidson
Gender and Identity in Visual Arts
The socially constructed ideas of gender in our culture interact with power through forms of media and visual arts,
and heavily influences all aspects of our lives, especially our relationships with each other. Our panel aims to expose
the concepts used by certain artists to express issues of gender through the visual elements of their work.
Romero, Manuel (College of the Mainland)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Dalel Serda
Code Red
The essay in question is an analysis of the film, A Few Good Men, and the ethical dilemma surrounding the events at
the beginning of the film and the progression of the trial scenes throughout.
Rushing, Candace (Centenary College of Louisiana)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sue Lawrence
How Do You Spell /ʃəʊl/?: Orthographical Differences Across Fourth Graders at Three SES
Levels
This exploratory study, part of a larger more in-depth one that will include intervention, explored differences and
similarities in non-standard orthographical patterns and strategies of 52 randomly selected fourth graders in nine
classrooms at one private and two public elementary schools in a northwest Louisiana school district. Schools A, B,
and C enroll 97%, 61%, and 0% of students receiving free or reduced lunches, respectively. A spelling assessment
utilizing a cloze procedure consisting of 20 sentences with 138 blanks was administered over two sessions to the
entire population of fourth graders (a total of 154 students) in Schools A, B, and C. One-third of these students (52)
were randomly selected with stratification across schools, ability groups, and gender. The 20 sentences included
high-frequency words (e.g., come, after), phonetically-regular (e.g., shake, piper)and irregular (e.g., enough, done)
words, and frequently misspelled words (e.g., separate, definite) including homophones (e.g., your, you're). The
researcher is specifically interested in a)identifying non-standard orthographic patterns representing specific
strategies (e.g. rule-governed attempts [recieve for receive],oral-language-governed attempts [fas for fast],
phonology-governed attempts [their for there], and visual-memory-governed attempts [rember for remember) that
may surface from the data collected, and b) determining relative frequency of the identified nonstandard patterns
and strategies used across the three SES levels, as well as across gender, age, and race. Students identified with
learning disabilities who receive special services and those who were not present for the entirety of both sessions
were excluded from the study. Specific procedures, results, and conclusions will be provided in this oral presentation.
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Saenz, Isabel (McMurry University)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Tina Bertrand
The Time to Fight: Women's Participation in the Arab Spring
In predominately Muslim societies, women are hindered from formally participating in political processes by cultural
and religious obstacles, and therefore, are forced to take up unorthodox methods in order to stimulate change.
Women naturally exhibit roles of leadership in the family structure, which gives them leadership experience.
Although women have participated in political organizations such as the Muslim Brotherhood, they have not been
allowed to hold leadership positions until recently due to safety precautions. Why not allow women's leadership in
their respective society? This paper analyzes the effects of the economy on conditions of a family as a force for
female activism, the emergence of women as norm entrepreneurs, and the international recognition of women's
rights through the Arab Spring protests. My research suggests that given the practice of democratic elections in
countries that have been liberated due to the Arab Spring, international pressures to legitimize gender equality given
the recent protests are being seen for the first time. In this paper, I will examine three cases in which dictators have
been overthrown and in which free and fair elections have taken place: Tunisia, Egypt, and Libya. Considering the
fragile nature of women's rights in Muslim countries, I ask: why did women play a pivotal role in the Arab Spring?
Saldana, Jaime (Laredo Community College)
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. Daniel McInnis
Does state mandated testing obstruct curriculum development and learning (TEKS)?
I have noticed that schools work at not so much to teach the essential skills and knowledge, but instead, teach ways
to pass the state mandatory test. Instead of teaching a love of learning it has turned education into a laboratory of
conditioning students to respond artificially to responses instead of critical learning. Throating the state goals of
higher education and putting financial stress on the education of students; students and the institution try to
overcome their deficiencies through remediation. I propose to give a presentation discussing how teaching to the
state mandated test can adversely affect students at higher education.
Smith, Katherine (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Michael Clody
Victorian Medievalism vs. Steampunk: All That is Old is New Again
During the Victorian period two important literary and social reactions to Industrialization occurred: one, the
invention of science fiction, which looked to the future and technology for the answers to the problems created by
industrialization, and two, the Medievalist movement, which looked back to the pre-modern medieval past as a
simpler, nobler, more human time. In recent decades another literary and social movement has developed in
reaction to the post-modern electronic age-Steampunk-which looks back to the Victorian period as the simpler,
nobler, more corporeal time. The Victorian Medievalists romanticized the medieval period; they longed for a past
that had actually, on the whole, existed. By contrast, Steampunk romanticizes the Victorian industrialized world, but
not the one that actually existed. Instead, they long for the world that only exists in Victorian science fiction. These
reactions, though separated by more than a century, are similar in that they both express a deep-seated
dissatisfaction with the dehumanization of their respective modernities. While the Medievalists rejected
mechanization as dehumanizing, Steampunk embraces the mechanical world as human, rejecting instead the
decorporalization of the electronic age. To Steampunk, being more human is not necessarily being humane, but an
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embracing of a visceral, carnal world and a rejection of the ethereal nature of the electronic age. Both Victorian
Medievalism and Steampunk seek a more human world by looking back to a romanticized past as a model of and for,
humanity.
Smith, Nicholas (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jonathon Zophy
The Reformation Conflict over the Veneration of Relics: a Conflict over the Relation of the
Material to the Spiritual
This paper explores the Reformation and Counter-Reformation conflict over the veneration of relics. It analyzes the
history of relics in Christianity, what the veneration of relics entailed, and the extent of the practice in the sixteenth
Century. It examines the objections of the principal Reformers, Martin Luther and John Calvin as well as those of
those particularly influential on them, such as Erasmus; the cause of their objections, as well as the change in word
view which made these objections necessary, and the Catholic response to these objections. Further, it looks at
whether or not the objections which were of a factual and verifiable nature were accurate. Finally, it draws
conclusions as to the cause of this conflict and shows that the theological conflict was an expression of a deep
conflict in world view, one which could not help but bring this particular disagreement to a head.
Smith, Robin (Lee College)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Georgeann Ward
Watchmen: Morality and Social Responsibility
My conference paper deals with the subjectivity of morality and its relation to social responsibility in the graphic
novel Watchmen, written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Dave Gibbons. Through an analysis of the behavior of
individual characters and using Jean Paul Sartre's essay entitled "Existentialism" as a lens, I will show that each
character, through action or inaction, determines not only their own fate, but also the fate of the world around
them. The main characters in Watchmen, all superheroes, are either retired, working under the radar, or employed
by the government. From an existentialist point of view, Watchmen illustrates the subjectivity of human morality
and the responsibility of the individual to society, indicating that when an individual makes a moral choice, the
consequences of that choice can have a vast and lasting effect.
Sommerfeld, Lauren (Lee College )
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. John Britt
Ruiz v. Estelle: Rapid Reforms of the Texas Prison System
In 1972, David Ruiz, an inmate in the Estelle Unit of the Texas prison system filed a petition accusing the prison
system of violating the Eighth Amendment. The Eighth Amendment of The United States Constitution prohibits cruel
and unusual punishment. While the prison officials denied all accusations except for overcrowding, investigators
were able to prove that the conditions for inmates were no longer acceptable. The pretrial activity for Ruiz v. Estelle
lasted eight years, and the trial itself lasted for more than one hundred days making it the longest prisoner lawsuit of
all time. This case led to substantial reforms of the Texas penal system that ultimately led to reforms in other state
penal systems.
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Spriggs, Patric (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. Ronnie Lake
Neurobiology of Addiction in Layman's Terms
Addiction is best understood as a disease. Although drug use begins as a voluntary behavior that appears rooted in
choice, craving is an involuntary response that initiates automatic drug-seeking behavior once addiction has
developed. Craving occurs in the same areas of the brain that are used in planning, inhibition, and decision making;
as a result higher brain functioning is overridden, self-control is significantly impaired, and the ability to make rational
decisions is disrupted. Repeated drug use is correlated with changes in brain structure and function that limit an
organism's ability to experience normal pleasure and inhibit compulsive drug-acquisition behaviors. During active
addiction and early recovery, addictive behaviors are incredibly difficult to override once initiated; this is due to
changes in the brain's pleasure center and frontal lobe. Using current research and easy-to-grasp analogies, this
presentation explains the neurobiology that clarifies why addiction is best conceptualized as a disease. This
presentation focuses primarily on changes in how the brain's pleasure center and frontal lobe function; it also
explains how genetics, learning and memory, and the stress response system are involved in addiction. Issues related
to recovery and the gradual reversal of these changes is also discussed. The information is presented in a way that
makes these complex ideas of brain functioning understandable for the layperson. The goal is to increase
understanding of addiction and awareness of related issues by educating the general public.
Steinberg, Daniel (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Chad Wetterneck, Tannah Little, Jelani Daniel, Lucy Phillips, John
Hart
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Chad Wetterneck
Examining Self-Compassion and Experiential Avoidance in Symptom Dimensions of OCD
Although behavioral and pharmacological treatments for OCD have shown great success with many clients, a
number of people are either unwilling to undergo these treatments or fail to respond. The rise of third wave
behavioral therapies involving the practice of mindfulness and acceptance strategies has led to many new studies
intent of refining the treatment effectiveness for many disorders including obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
Both Experiential Avoidance (EA) and Self-Compassion (SC) are constructs that contain elements of mindfulness and
acceptance and have been linked to severity and successful treatment of OCD (Twohig et al., 2010; Wetterneck et
al., 2011). However, no studies have examined their relationship in an OCD population and whether there are
differences in the two constructs based on symptom dimensions (i.e., contamination, unacceptable thoughts,
harming, etc.). In the current study approximately 90 non-referred individuals meeting criteria for OCD completed
this assessment. Significant relationships between EA and SC were found, as well as differences in how these
constructs related to various symptom dimensions. Given these findings, there are three main goals of this study. 1)
To explain how EA and SC are related to one another; 2) To explain why EA and SC are thought to be related to OCD;
and 3) To suggest how to use techniques targeting EA or SC based on symptom presentation in OCD.
Tellawi, Ghazel (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Gerardo Duque, Monnica Williams, Chad Wetterneck
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Chad Wetterneck
Distress Associated With Sexual Orientation Obsessions in OCD
Although sexual obsessions in OCD are common, obsessions about sexual orientation have not been well studied.
These obsessions focus on issues such as the fear of becoming homosexual, being a latent homosexual, and mental
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pictures involving homosexual acts. Sexual orientation obsessions are particularly distressing due to the stigma
surrounding homosexuality and typically a source of shame among those afflicted. A recent study demonstrated that
the presence of sexual obsessions results in higher severity of OCD obsessions (Williams et al., 2011). The purpose of
the current study is to gain more knowledge about people suffering from homosexual obsessions in OCD. Data was
collected from several OCD-themed websites, targeting people with sexual orientation concerns (N=1176). The
survey consisted of 70 questions measured by a 5-point Likert scale ranging from 1-5 (1= always, 5=never). Of the
sample, 74.6% were male, 72.0% were heterosexual, and 26.4% reported an OCD diagnosis from a professional. The
survey consisted of 70 questions measured by a 5-point Likert scale ranging from 1-5 (1=always, 5=never). Survey
items were assessed with a factor analysis and the items separated into 3 factors: worry, scrupulosity, and
preference for the opposite sex. Tests were then conducted only including participants who believed that they did
have OCD (n=758). Results indicated that all the factors were significantly correlated with distress in the individual.
Additionally, all factors were significantly correlated with each other. Males (M= 1.41, SD= 1.10) displayed
significantly higher levels of distress than females (M= 1.61, SD= 1.33). Males (M= 9.40, SD= 3.73) also scored
significantly higher than females (M= 10.88, SD= 5.90) in preference for the opposite sex. These results indicate that
homosexual obsessions in OCD do cause significant distress in individuals and affect the feelings toward themselves
and others. The future direction of this research will involve creating a self-report instrument to specifically assess
these types of obsessions and differentiate people with OCD from people who may actually be homosexual.
Thompson, Lizz (College of the Mainland)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Dalel Serda
Interaction Increasing Retention: Our Need for a Community-Based Classroom
This research paper explores the need for more interaction within our classrooms at community college. It suggests
that there is a relationship between a sense of community and student retention, accomplishment, and intellectual
development. It highlights the need for instructors to perhaps be better equipped in initiating interaction between
their students in their classrooms.
Thompson, Taylor (Lee College)
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. John Britt
The Waco Tornado of 1953: The Ironies, the Stories, and Remembering
There is an old Native American legend that the Waco Indians decided to settle in the area because it was located in
a good spot geographically. It was surrounded by hills and bluffs, making the area in their minds tornado proof. On
May 11, 1953, the city of Waco experienced the tenth deadliest tornado in American history, tied with the Goliad
Tornado as Texas' deadliest tornado ever, killing 114 people. At 4:36 p.m. the Waco Tornado struck the downtown
area. Many of the civilians were getting off work for the day, and heavy rainfall made it difficult for the people of
Waco to see the twister coming and take appropriate action. Without an efficient severe weather warning system,
the tornado caught the citizens completely off guard. The massive tornado wreaked havoc through downtown Waco,
leaving many homes and businesses destroyed and causing severe injuries and deaths. In June of 1953, as a result of
the devastating Waco Tornado, Texas A&M University and the United States Weather Bureau (now the National
Weather Service) organized the Texas Tornado Warning Conference to discuss tornado warning procedures and
weather radar. They hoped to prevent death tolls like the ones experienced by Waco. The conferences led to an early
development of the SKYWARN storm spotter program as well as a national radar network.
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Tipton, Tonya (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Valerie Olson
Divergent Discourses?
The Virtual Climate Surrounding Copenhagen. Media representations of climate change play an important role in
creating a favorable, or unfavorable, public understanding of humanitys role in global warming. Various media
platforms frame social issues in terms that are congruent with their audiences shared understanding of the world.
The 2009 UN-sponsored Copenhagen Climate Change Conference brought the politics of climate change into the
public sphere via different media platforms. Both traditional and alternative media platforms were utilized -- by
supporters and non-supporters alike-to frame the issue of climate change in a way that might influence peoples
beliefs and behaviors. The blogosphere acted as a public forum for people to stake out their truth-claims in regards
to their beliefs about anthropogenic climate change or their support for a binding multilateral international treaty.
Some researchers suggest that the internet has provided a platform for alternative discourses by actively
problematizing the normative understanding of specific social issues. While there has been considerable research
on climate change framing in the traditional media, there is significant gap in the literature regarding climate change
framing in alternative media platforms. This pilot project examines ten online blogs before, during and after the
Copenhagen Climate Conference in order to observe what ideological discourses were being used to frame climate
change in the blogosphere over a three month span. The research was conducted using a three phase qualitative
study consisting of a semi-structured field observation of the structure and flow of the blogosphere, data collection
from 10 online blogs, and an examination of the socio-demographic characteristics of the bloggers. Using content
analysis, four types of ideological frames emerged from the data: political, economic, environmental, and scientific.
This suggests that climate change communication is mediated through various interpretive frames that seek to
highlight or obscure certain aspects of the message based on the convergence of various worldviews. One of the
major findings of this research is the relative lack of race, gender, and class representation in the majority of the
blogs in this sample. Based on the data collected in this pilot study, there needs to be further research on the
availability-or lack thereof-of diverse counter-discourses that challenge the dominant climate change frames.
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Poster Presentation Abstracts
Adams, Rachel (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sarah Lechago
A Comparison Between Real Time Remote Supervision and In Vivo Supervision Techniques
in Direct Care Staff
Research supports the routine evaluation of staff performance in clinical settings to maintain the integrity of program
implementation and services provided. The Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB) supports this endeavor by
including mandatory supervision hours to qualify for the certification exam to become a Board Certified Behavior
Analyst (BCBA). The number of distance education programs accredited by the BACB is increasing, thereby potentially
bringing remote supervision into greater demand. Technology programs such as Skype™ allow two people to
communicate visually and audibly in real time, and represent one potential avenue for remote supervision. The
current study adds to this body of literature by employing a multiple baseline across participants design with an
embedded multi-element design to compare the effects of covert observations, in-vivo observations, and
observations using the Skype™ program from a separate location on treatment integrity in one entry level therapist
and two advanced level therapists working with children diagnosed with autism in a treatment-day center. So far, the
results show that the level of treatment integrity is comparable in both the in vivo and Skype™ conditions, both of
which are superior to the covert observation condition.
Ahmed, Maram (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
The True Impact
When looking into the aspect of inclusion, much debate is focused on students with disabilities versus students not
identified with disabilities. Numerous amounts of research suggest that students who are nondisabled can gain a
number of important benefits from relationships with their peers who are disabled. Research studies have indicated
that inclusion creates an atmosphere in which students learn to be comfortable with people who are different, and
promotes confidence and self-esteem. Since true inclusion is a natural part of everyday life, it is believed by some
that all schools need to set up inclusion as a precedent for their students. As continuation of the existing research,
this research seeks to explore the benefits of inclusion on the children without disabilities, specifically male preschool
aged students. Research supports that there are positive effects on female students who are nondisabled; therefore
it is necessary to understand the viewpoint of the male students in the classroom as well. It is necessary to see to
study if male students without disabilities can profit from their partaking in inclusive settings. Understanding the
perspectives of the male students who are nondisabled on inclusion will help educators truly see the benefits of
inclusion classrooms in regards to their students emotional and social growth. This qualitative study provides data
gathered in an inclusive classroom of preschool students. Data collected involves observations and field notes that
directly annotate male students attitudes and interactions towards the students with disabilities. Preschool is a
critical time in which students form their beliefs and understandings of differences; therefore, the results of this
study serve to inform both teachers and parents alike of the positive benefits of inclusion in early childhood.
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Akin, Melisa (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dina Abdelrahman, Aisha Aulakh, Amanda Mains
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Muslim Youth Identity and Volunteerism with American-Islamic Organizations
The terrorist act of 9/11 has put the Muslim community under great scrutiny and increased the perceived
discrimination among Muslims, especially their youth, creating a new context that affects their identity formation. A
sense of identity is of axial importance for an individual's existence and perception of self. Consequently, it
profoundly affects the social behavior and psychological well-being of a person. In this study we investigate how
volunteerism within a chosen group of American-Islamic organizations influences the process of identity construction
and acculturation of Muslim youth. We will examine whether their affiliation and volunteer work with such
organizations has an impact on their national and religious identities compared that to the Muslim youth who are not
affiliated with any Islamic organizations. For this non-experimental study, we will recruit 30 Muslims who volunteer
at an American-Islamic organization and recruit 30 non-volunteer Muslims by a snowball sample. All 60 participants
will be in the age range of 18 to 30 years old and from the greater Houston area. The 60 participants will complete
survey's that measure their Islamic and national identity. We hypothesize that volunteering with such organizations
will influence identity structure especially in the aspects of national and religious identity domains. This will clarify to
some extent if there is any discrepancy between the national and religious domains of identity in Muslim youth, as
well as, affiliation and volunteerism with the selected organizations.
Akingbade, Babatunde (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Stuart Larson
Cerebral
Cerebral is an upcoming graphic novel that takes us into the life and personality of a notorious hit man known to the
world only as Blaze. If the price is right, the job will get done. No task is too difficult for him to accomplish. He is the
hit man's hit man whom can only be afforded by the most powerful crime bosses and professionals. He bears loyalty
to no one, and that makes him extremely dangerous. Betrayed by a formidable client, Blaze vows vengeance against
his double crossers. This is all too familiar territory and he will have no loose ends. But with a team of assassins to go
through, the cerebral assassin will have to push his cunningness to the limit. Release date is set for mid December.
Alli, Nathanial (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in the Work Place
Anderson, Aimee (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Nicolle Shields
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. W. Jared Dupree
Implications of Police Stress and Coping: A Local Study
Law enforcement is recognized as being hazardous and very stressful, and officers are more likely to divulge stressrelated complaints because of this. Stress-related complaints can manifest physiologically or mentally. Research
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suggests that police not only experience stress, but are not effectively coping with it. By pin-pointing stressors and
officer coping mechanisms, police departments can better offer services to their officers in order to prevent burnout,
divorce, substance abuse, and other negative coping styles to ensure their physical and mental health. As future
mental health professionals, we seek to understand the stressors of police officers and their coping styles. These
factors are the focus of this study. It is anticipated that these findings will help to understand the implications for
therapy, treatment, and educational programs from these stressors and coping styles.
Amos , April (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Trinidad Gutierrez
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Laptop users: The effects of observing others posture and task performance
The frequent use of mobile technology is becoming more common within our society. Research has found (Harris and
Starker, 2000) a noticeable increase in the use of mobile technology such as, laptops, iPads, iPods, and smart phones
among all age groups of users. Unfortunately, where we see an increase of use of mobile technology we also see an
increase in symptoms that are associated with the development of musculoskeletal disorders(MSD)among laptop
users. According to Blatter and Bongers(2002)these symptoms may lead to pain/discomfort, financial loss and even
financial burdens on companies. These symptoms could come from the improper use of technology or the lack of
adoption of products such as a laptop riser that may help reduce MSD symptoms. MSDs are more likely to occur
when parts of the body are stretched farther and work harder more often than they are prepared to at any given
time (Genaidy and Karwowski, 1993). Therefore, the laptop riser is an external device that should be considered
when attempting to lessen discomfort and obtain neutral posture. According to Genaidy and
Karwowski(1993),neutral posture refers to the resting position of each joint-position in which there is the least
tension or pressure on nerves, tendons, muscles and bones. It is also the position in which muscles are at their
resting length-neither contracted nor stretched. Muscles at this length can exert maximum force most efficiently.
Even though positioning the body in neutral posture while using a laptop riser may help mitigate discomforts, the
lack of usage amongst users seems to be the subject matter at hand. In a study done by Peres et al. (under revision),
they found that after participants observed others use keyboard short cuts their likelihood of using keyboard short
cuts increased. Therefore, the goal of this study will be to evaluate if laptop users are more likely to adopt the use of
a product such as a laptop risers, after observing other individuals use a laptop riser.
Antal, Sarah (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Sarah Lechago
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sarah Lechago
The Effects of Receptive-Expressive Sequencing on the Emergence of Feature, Function,
and Class
Many Early and Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI)curricula recommend targeting receptive language skills prior
to targeting the corresponding expressive skills (Leaf & McEachin, 1999; Lovaas, 2003). However, there is very little
empirical support for this recommendation. Moreover, some of the research literature on this topic demonstrates
that expressive language training may facilitate the acquisition of receptive language (Cuvo &Riva, 1980; Keller
&Bucher, 1980; Smeets, 1978). Additional research is required to investigate the effects of receptive-expressive
sequencing in teaching language to children diagnosed with autism (Petursdottir & Carr, 2011). This study aims to
contribute to this body of literature by comparing the effects of expressive-receptive and receptive-expressive
training sequences on the acquisition of feature, function, and class targets in three children diagnosed with autism.
An alternating-treatments design was used to examine the total number of trials to the mastery criterion for both
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expressive and receptive targets. Thus far, the results demonstrate that targeting the expressive skills before
targeting the corresponding receptive skills produces fewer total trials to the mastery criterion, representing a more
efficient approach to language training.
Arellano, Brian (University of Houston-Clear Lake); LaMonica Green, Shawna Reilly
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
Voting Probability based on Age, Gender and Level of Education
America thrives as a democracy because of the right to vote given to its citizens. Yet despite this very important
responsibility to elect who they feel should run their communities, make policies, and facilitate freedom, many
Americans choose not to exercise the right to vote. Our group consisting of team members Brian Arellano, LaMonica
Green, and Shawna Reilly will evaluate trends in the likeliness to vote based on education level, gender, and age. We
hypothesize that those with Bachelor's degrees as their highest degree received, and those with Master's degrees.
Our group hypothesizes that those over 40 will be more likely to vote than those under the age of 40. We also
hypothesize that there will be no appreciable difference between men's likeliness and women's likeliness to vote.
Azzam, Mohamad (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Carl Zhang
Effect of Oil Dispersants on Petroleum Solubility and Volatilization
Dispersants are employed in oil spill control under the general assumption that the active ingredient (surfactants) will
reduce the interfacial tension and promote the break-up of the oil slick into fine droplets. Our work will be attempted
to perform non-targeted trace analyses of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds that may be of importance
for the chemical and toxicological evaluation of dispersant use in oil spill scenarios, and to determine the effects of
multicomponent mixture on the nonideality (solute solubility and vapor pressure) and study the effects of surfactant
on solubility and volatilization. Surfactants that are the active agents in dispersants when employed in BTEX mixtures
will increase the apparent Aqueous solubility and in turn reduce Henry's Law constant for each BTEX component.
Three commercially available dispersants will be analyzed for inorganic and organic components using an array of
instruments including GC-MS, LC-MS-ESI coupled with UV-DAD and fluorescence detectors (FLD), and LC-MS with
accurate molecular mass time-of-flight (TOF) detector. GC-MS with column: HP - 5MS 5% phenyl methyl siloxane, 30
m × m 250 µm × 0.25 µm and library search database will be used to identify volatile and semi-volatile components.
LC-MS-ESI and LC-MS-TOF with an Acclaim surfactant column (4.6x150 mm, dp = 5 μm, Dionex) in Gradient flow
mode (Acetonitrile / H2O in 0.1 M NH4OAC) will be conducted to trace the type of surfactants in these dispersants.
Since many of these compounds are not described in the MSDS, the implications of our findings regarding the
evaluation of contaminant fate, transport and toxicity to concerned groups such as researchers, practitioners and
policy makers of Gulf oil spill will be discussed.
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Bailey, Angela (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Felicia Hickman
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sharon P. Hall
Effects of High School Parenting Programs on Adult Functioning
Adult functioning after becoming a teenage parent will be examined, as it pertains to educational and occupational
attainment and high school parenting programs. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) provides parenting programs
throughout some of its school districts. Enrollment in any of the in- school parenting programs is on a voluntary basis.
Because enrollment is not mandatory, some teenage mothers are not participating. On the other hand, there are
teenage mothers who do not get the chance to attend the program because their high school does not offer any. This
paper will determine whether teenage mothers are more successful in adulthood, due to being a part of the
parenting programs provided by the high schools they attend. This paper will also determine if teenage parents who
did not attend the program and those were not offered the program will face more hardships, such as becoming a
high school drop- out, unemployed or limited job skills, dependent upon welfare assistance, or reduced to a life of
crime. Together, the results will suggest that teenage mothers, who attend parenting programs provided by their
school, will be better prepared for entry into adulthood after receiving the proper tools by the parenting programs.
Baker, Andrea (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Kruti Bhakta, Paige Roane
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. W. Jared DuPree
Influences of Body Image Dissatisfaction on Partnered Sexual Activity
The purpose of this study is to answer how body dissatisfaction influences partnered sexual activity. This study will
increase clinician awareness for those who treat clients reporting body dissatisfaction and/or sexual activity
concerns. Participants will be solicited to take an online survey via snowball sampling. Sampling will consist of direct
and forwarded emails, Facebook/Craigslist posts and on-campus distributions. Information will be provided by
participants by opting-in to take an online survey created and housed by Survey Monkey (for all participants) and
UHCLs Sona survey system (for UHCL student participants). Data provided will be decoded by the researchers who
will then take the collective information and interpret the findings. Subject selection is random. The subject
population will consist of males and females within the age range of 18-30 years. These individuals will be of random
ethnicity and sexual orientation. Subjects will be excluded if not in the age range of 18-30 years old. The focus of this
study is on young adults due to the balance perception of body image and sexual activity within this young adult
participant pool. No one under the age of 18 will be included in this study. The authors hypothesized body
dissatisfaction decreases partnered sexual activity. Previous research purports links between body image and sexual
desire, sexual satisfaction, sexual behavior, sexual functioning, sexual quality, and sexual frequency. However, there
is a lack of studies examining the affects of body image/body dissatisfaction as it correlates with sexual activity.
Benefits to the participants are anticipated to be an increased awareness of ones level of body dissatisfaction as
compared to his/her sexual activity.
Balat, Michael (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dr. Bazlur Rashid
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mohammed Bazlur Rashid
Characterization of A Fusion Enzyme Combining Pfu Polymerase and dUTPase
A high fidelity thermostable DNA polymerase was found in the archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus (Pfu) with an additional
3-5 exonuclease proofreading ability, making it a more favorable enzyme for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with
proof reading activity. The polymerization rate for Pfu polymerase (Pfu-Pol) is very slow, requiring longer cycles or a
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mixture with the more commonly used Taq polymerase from the bacterium Thermus aquaticus. Recent evidence has
shown that mixture of Pfu-Pol with a Pfu dUTPase increased PCR product yield by preventing the misincorporation of
dUMP into newly synthesized DNA. Contamination of DNA with dUMP causes thymineless cell death due to excessive
excision repair. We have designed a fusion protein synthesis of Pfu-Pol and dUTPase employing an expression vector
pCAL-kc that contains a calmodulin-binding peptide (CBP) affinity tag. CBP would allow easy purification of the fusion
protein using a calmodulin affinity column chromatography. Our preliminary data shows fusion enzyme PfuPol/dUTPase as well as Pfu-Pol by itself are expressed as active enzymes. We are currently characterizing the
enzymes with the notion that fusion enzyme would be more efficient than the individual pfu pol enzyme.
Barragan, Erika (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Tiffany Wilson, Christopher Alas
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Alex Milam
The effect of personality on academic, job, and life satisfaction
The main focus on this project is to look at a link between personality and satisfaction. We are focusing on
agreeableness and extroversion according to the Big-Five. We are also looking at undergraduate and graduate
satisfaction in terms of collegian, work and personal life experience. There is an assortment of information based on
this research. However, we are studying this particular topic because even though there are a number of studies on
this matter all the information however seem to be ambiguous. In one source according to George, Helson, and John
(2011) found that Conscientiousness, Extroversion, and Openness are related to job satisfaction. Another source that
was a basis for this study was a study done by Trapmann and the research suggests that Life satisfaction and job
satisfaction are very similar despite all differences in content......similar results for academic satisfaction can be
assumed as well (p.134).
Bishop, Molly (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Claire Gergen
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
The Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Counterproductive Work Behaviors
This study is attempting to investigate whether emotional intelligence affects the frequency of counterproductive
work behaviors. Researchers in the field of Industrial/Organizational Psychology have determined that there are
many individual and environmental factors that play a role in the employee-work relationship. One aspect of the
employee that can affect his or her work is the amount of counterproductive work behaviors that he or she exhibits.
Several different factors can influence the occurrence and frequency of these types of behaviors, and those factors
are often difficult to detect. We wish to determine whether emotional intelligence is one of the factors that may
influence counterproductive work behaviors. If so, this information could be used in the future to reduce the
occurrence of counterproductive behaviors in the workplace, ultimately increasing productivity and efficiency.
Bookless, Nicole (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
Sensory Diets in an SLC classroom
The rationale for this research project is based on the lack of information about how sensory diets work within a selfcontained classroom and how they can benefit the classroom teacher. Kashman stated that "sensory integration is
the basis for all behavior" and by looking at the sensory needs of the students the teacher can take a deeper look into
how the students behaviors can change in a positive way with the of a sensory diet within their classroom.
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Bowles, Jenese(University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Occupational Fatalities: A Comparison Study Between The United States and Japan
Statistics have shown that an unsafe work environment has a direct effect on the cost of operation due to loss time
from work and the rising cost of insurance. Employee injury, illness, and death while of working are critical issues in
the operation of any industry. To address these issues, most industrialized countries have established laws and
regulatory agencies to ensure a safer work environment. Globally, its been estimated that each year two million
workers, of the billions employed, lose their lives due to work related accidents (International Labour Organization
2003). The acceleration and liberalization of world trade along with the spread of new technology are generating new
types of work organization; therefore, new exposure to occupational risks. Two of the leading First World countries
for world trade are the United States and Japan. The U.S. had 4547 fatalities in 2010; 16.5% were in the construction
industry and 7% in manufacturing. Total 2010 population for the U.S. was 308, 745, 538 with workforce population of
2.6 million (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2010). Japan reported 1195 fatalities with 30.5% being in construction and
17.7% in manufacturing. Total 2010 population for Japan as of October 1, 2010 was 128,057,352 with a workforce
population of 62.6 million (Statistics Bureau of Japan, 2010). Risks of injury, illness, or death vary widely across
sectors of industry and commerce. The significance of this paper is to identify and understand the reasons for the
fatality rates specific to industry and event (cause of death) between the two industrialized countries. In order to
gather the data for this study, data will be collected for the U.S. and Japan. An evaluation of occupational fatality
rates from the years 2000-2010 in the construction and manufacturing industry sectors will be analyzed by the top
causes of deaths unique to each country. A more detailed analysis on the common causes between both countries
will be performed for benchmarking purposes. Data will be derived from each governments system. Analyses will be
conducted to identify contributing factors as to why the rates are what they are. Data will be collected on worker
characteristics such as age, gender, race, and education background. Aside from manpower, equipment usage; the
economy; and worker culture will also be considered as possible factors contributing to fatalities which are a direct
reflection of worker safety. Each countrys safety practices and standards will be summarized to form a best of class
as a benchmark to enhance worker safety. It is hypothesized that the U.S. will demonstrate a more safe working
environment; therefore, reflecting through the fatality rate compared to that of Japan. Data collection and analyses
will completed by April 2012 producing a final paper in May 2012.
Broussard, Jared (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Eric Lee, Ben Benoit
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mary Short
Video Games & Their Impact on Behavior
Even though video games are used by the majority of people in the general population, little research has been
conducted examining their effect on behaviors in the players. This need for research has become necessary due to
the growing popularity of video games, as well as the growing press it is receiving regarding issues with negative
effects associated with video games. Recent statistics have shown that 65% of US households play video games,
people in the general population play an average of 18 hours of video games per week, and that gaming is no longer
restricted to just children as the average age of a gamer is 35. This research is also necessary because of the growing
notoriety that video games are receiving because of their connection with violent occurrences such as the Virginia
Tech shootings or Columbine. This current study seeks to explore what effects video game use has on the behaviors
of the participants. Through online and print questionnaires, approximately 600 college student participants will
complete assessments examining their demographics, video game use, video game addiction, self-esteem ratings,
values ratings, as well as the subjects scores on problem behaviors in relation to work or school. We hypothesize that
the data will include a significant number of participants who report medium levels of video game use (3 or more
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days per week). Within this group, it is hypotheized that they will have similar scores on self-esteem, values, and
problem behaviors, showing that video game use does not hold the negative effects as described by popular opinion.
Additionally, the data is hypothesized to show that participants that score higher on video game addiction will score
poorly on self-esteem, values, and problem behaviors, in relation to participants who score lower on video game
addiction. The results of this research may help to clarify issues related to video games currently held by the general
population. Additionally, this could help to inform the public about video games use, and possibly lead to additional
research regarding video games effects on users.
Broussard, Jared (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Sarah Ochs, Thomas Kasper, Mary Short
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mary Short
Sexting and Picture Sexting
Despite the fact that cellphones are widely available to the majority of teenagers and adults, little research has been
done regarding their practice, specifically using cellphones for sexting and picture sexting. This need for this research
has become increasingly relevant in light of several court cases involving sending sexual images on cellphones. The
current body of research differs in their reports of the prevalence of sexting, ranging from 4% to 33% in a young adult
population. The current study seeks to further examine the prevalence of sexting and picture sexting, as well as
personal factors that may be related to its use, including motivators and consequences, relationship and sexual
attitudes and history, and self-esteem. Through online and print questionnaires, approximately 600 college student
participants will complete assessments examining their demographics, use of cellphones and internet, sexual history,
sexual attitudes, as well as their self-esteem. We expect that the data will show that a large majority, if not all, of the
participants will use their cell phones for many reasons (calling, texting, and using the internet). It is expected that
there will be a subset of participants who use their cell phones for sexting. Within this subset, there is expected to be
an even smaller subset of participants who use their cell phones for sexting with messages that include pictures.
These two subsets will be expected to be associated with riskier behavior and LSE, as well as more open attitudes
towards sex. The results of this research may help clarify prevalence and typical issues associated with sexting. It may
also generate an understanding of why individuals engage in sexting behaviors and what they get out of it. Results of
this research also could help inform the public about the impact of sexting on those who use it and aid parents and
school professionals in addressing the issue.
Broussard, Jared (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Lauren Harrison; Thomas Kasper, Benjamin Benoit, Mary Short
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mary Short
Bedtime Behaviors in Children
Sleep problems among children is a growing concern for psychologists as more information is being acquired about
the importance of quality sleep during childhood. Previous studies have been conducted on how childhood sleep
behavior affects temperament and health in adolescence and adulthood. This study will examine the relationships
between children sleeping in their parents beds, also known as bed-sharing, and the beliefs and behaviors as
reported by their parents. Through the use of an online questionnaire, approximately 300 participants, who have
children currently or have had children in the past, completed assessments on bed-sharing, family situation, sexual
activity, and quality of sleep for both themselves and their children. Of the preliminary data taken from 73
participants, it was shown that participants who bed-shared with their children daily had higher scores on composite
values of the impact on the parents life, as well as the behavior issues exhibited by the child engaging in the bedsharing.
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Brown, Melania (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Jin Yoon, Jennifer Fritz
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Fritz
A Comparison of Unequal and Equal Delay Intervals on Common Measures of Delay
Discounting
Delay discounting is a widely used measure of impulsivity. By presenting a series of choices between relatively
smaller reinforcers available immediately versus relatively larger reinforcers available after a delay, indifference
points can be calculated. These indifference points are then used to calculate either k (i.e., the rate of discounting) or
the area under the curve (AUC), which are the two most common methods for reporting impulsivity in delay
discounting procedures. Commonly, a skewed distribution of delays are assessed, with more shorter delays relative
to longer delays. Such a distribution may produce unintended, yet orderly changes in AUC values. Specifically, a
skewed distribution of delays appear to be less sensitive to changes in impulsivity for more impulsive individuals as
measured by AUC relative to k. Therefore, the current study examined the effects of utilizing equal versus unequal
delays on k and AUC. We have completed sessions with 28 participants. The current data will be presented and
discussed.
Burnett, LaTonya (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Personality Types and Social Media Use
This study was created to showcase the relationship between various social media use and personality types. The Big
Five Factor Model was used to define the categories that people personalities fell into. A short personality inventory
and self report questionnaire was completed for further analysis of this assumption. The data collected was used to
show which type of personality preferred which form of social media. This study was to identify which personality
type engaged in which type of social media to further help various internet and marketing businesses in how to
advertise, tailor, and create an appeal that would incorporate or try to appeal to all various personality types.
Burns, Christopher (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Paul Cusco, Henry Ascencio, Ryan Page, Jarrett Lockridge,
Michael Norman
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sharon P. Hall
Robotic Control using Gesture and Voice
This project is an experiment involving the use of body movements and voice commands to control robotic
experiments while the operator is in a microgravity (weightless) environment. Utilizing readily available Xbox 360
Kinect sensors and computers modified to function properly in the absence of gravity, the research team will
perform two research flights in microgravity to determine concept feasibility and develop concepts to design further
experiments from. The unique environment in which the team will operate has necessitated the use of nontraditional hardware, a prime example being the method through which voice commands are captured. Rather than
use a standard microphone which would capture the high ambient sound level and reduce functionality, the team
will be using contact microphones which will rest on, and detect vibrations from, the users neck rather than from
vibrations in the air, increasing operation effectiveness. The experiment is designed as two identical, redundant
systems, allowing for research to continue in the event of one system experiencing a failure mid- flight. The objective
of the experiment is to attempt to control three different types of robotic systems: a land-based rover, a robotic
arm, and a robot with six degrees of freedom (i.e. a spaceship); these types of robotic systems are the types which
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have been identified as having the greatest potential of being used in a broad spectrum of space flight and
exploration activities. Scientific goals for the experiment include: reducing space and mass requirements for control
systems in spacecraft, increasing efficiency through a dynamic control system which is intuitive for the operator, and
increasing operator safety by reducing extra-vehicular-activity operations. This experiment was prepared in
response to a call for proposals issued by NASAs Reduced Gravity Office and will be flown and tested by students
from UHCL and San Jacinto College on two microgravity flight missions.
Cantu, Sean (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Samina Masood
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Samina Masood
Fluid Properties in Electromagnetic Fields
We study the effect of electromagnetic fields on fluid properties to see if the modifications in the fluid's properties
are causing an effect from magnetic fields on the bacterial growth. For this purpose we design a simple experiment
to study the changes in spectrum of light through nutrient broth which is the fluid used to study bacterial growth.
Carlin, Jennifer (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Jessica Snoots, Brittany Johns, Heather Timmis
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. W. Jared Dupree
Exploring Relationships Between Spirituality, Religiosity, and Sexual Satisfaction in
Homosexual Individuals
Although there has been previous research examining religiousity or spirituality and sexual satisfaction within
heterosexual couples, there is minimal current research focused on homosexual couples within this aspect. The
purpose of this study is to explore the possible relationship between spirituality or religiousity and sexual satisfaction
within homosexual relationships. More specifically, our hypothesis suggests increased religiousity negatively
correlates with sexual satisfaction and increased spirituality positively correlates with sexual satisfaction within same
sex relationships. The population studied consists of subjects between the ages of 18 and 100, residing within the
Houston metropolitan area. Data has been collected using a self report survey that consists of demographic
information and three published measurements. The survey measuring religiousity consists of questions and
modified questions from the New Indices of Religious Orientation (Frances, 2007). Next, spirituality was measured
using the Intrinsic Spirituality Scale (Hodge, 2003). Lastly, sexual satisfaction was measured by the Index of Sexual
Satisfaction (Hudson, 1993).
Carrera, Rachel (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Tiffiney Barfield-Cottledge
Sibling Violence: A Social Learning Perspective
Sibling violence is generally regarded among researchers as the most common form of family violence but yet the
least often studied. Some suggest it is because sibling violence is so prevalent that it may not be viewed as deviant; it
is viewed as normal. However, outside the context of the siblings, this violence may be considered assault. As far as
being a crime, these acts of violence between siblings have been described as ambiguous. Studying this act between
siblings has measurement challenges due to different definitions and terms used such as aggression and abuse as
well as the severity level in which to study. Previous studies have explored a wide range in age of juveniles engaging
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in sibling violence. Past researchers have recommended a need for sibling violence to be tested empirically against a
theoretical framework. One common theory that has been tested is social learning theory, which states that
behavior is learned through modeling and reinforcement, and the people most often observed are the most likely to
be imitated. Therefore, children may imitate violence they have observed in the home between parents, parent to
child violence, or violence among siblings, as well as out of the home in violence among peers or in media such as
video games and movies, and do not learn nonviolent ways to handle conflict. Data gathered in studies of social
learning theory and sibling violence have generally supported the theory. Future research could focus on those most
likely to have engaged in sibling violence (juvenile offenders) and be longitudinal in nature.
Castillo, Roberto (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Stuart Larson
The Universe Within
The Universe Within is a digital art project that incorporates portrait photography and Hubble Space telescope
imagery, with the aim of creating a "Cosmic Portrait". The intent of the project is to create a unique image extolling
the scientific and spiritual concept that the universe, both literally and metaphysically, is present within us all. For
this particular series three ethnic groups are represented: African, Asian, and Native American. Out of the 12 models
used, six are men and six are women. Each photograph in the series is unique to that individual person. It is the goal
of the artist to instill a sense of awe and wonder into the viewer, with the hope that they will look upon themselves
and others as the progeny of the universe.
Colson, Carynton (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Mariluz Florez
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mary Stafford
Teacher Knowledge of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Increasing their Knowledge
in a Timely Manner
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a "persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that is
more frequently displayed and more severe than is typically observed in individuals at a comparable level of
development" (American Psychiatric Association, 2000, p. 85). It is currently known that ADHD is the most common
behavior disorder among children (What is Attention, 2009). Since children often spend a great deal of their time in a
school setting which has strong demands on children's attention skills; teachers have been considered one of the
primary sources leading to diagnosis (Schwean, Parkinson, Francis, & Lee, 1993). Unfortunately, general education
elementary teachers in the state of Texas are not required to be educated on ADHD, which could in turn negatively
impact children with the disorder. This study seeks to discover: First, whether a one hour training course will
significantly increase general education elementary teachers' knowledge of ADHD. Second, whether the information
will be retained after a two-week period of time. American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical
manual of mental disorders (Revised 4th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association. Schwean, V.L.,
Parkinson, M., Francis, G., & Lee, F. (1993). Educating the ADHD child: debunking the myths. Canadian Journal of
School Psychology, 9(1): 37-52. What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?. (2009, January 23). Retrieved from
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/what-is-attention-deficithyperactivity-disorder.shtml
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Creek, Kathryn (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Brenda Urias, Justin Cordell, Ricardo Medina
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Stuart Larson
Restaurant Concept and Advertising Portfolio
We are creating a fictitious restaurant to showcase our graphic design, advertising and packaging design skills. We
will be creating an advertising campaign as well as various menu, packaging pieces as well as uniform apparel.
Dang, Nhut (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gokhan Gercek
Applying cloud computing technology in building university laboratory
In the past few years, cloud computing has been introduced as the future of the information technology. Due to
many cloud computing researchers, this technology can help many organizations in saving a large amount of capital
for technology services. It can help to improve the machine utilization, reduced administration time and
infrastructure costs. For those reason, in the recent years, many businesses, especially small and medium start-up
businesses with low capital and human resources, have chosen to apply the cloud computing technology in building
the business information technology system. Not only in businesses IT system, nowadays, cloud computing is also
considered to be the technology using in university laboratory. With the property of low cost and dynamic of cloud
technology, its worthy to apply the cloud technology in building the new laboratory system for the universities.
However, like other organizations, university laboratory will also have some advantages and disadvantages that need
to be considered when transferring to the new technology. In this paper, we will discuss about some technical and
financial issues that need to be evaluated when applying cloud technology in building university lab.
Davey, Brenae (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
Discrimination Against Working and Stay-At-Home Mothers
My objective in this study is to look at both working and stay-at-home mothers. I will be focusing on the attitudes,
actions, and reactions both of these sectors receive from the general public, in regards to the decisions they have
made about their career choice. I will be asking questions that probe deeper into the way the mothers feel society
relates to their choice. I will also bring in several other factors, including age, marital status, and the amount of time
they spend each week with their children or working. A hypothesis I've come to is that both of these categories of
mothers face opposite ends of discrimination, whether for spending time away from their children or for focusing
solely on their children, and that most have been discriminated against at least once. Another hypothesis is that
single working mothers face even higher amounts of discrimination due to the fact that their children are either
raised by another or end up raising themselves because the mother works to support the entire family. A third
hypothesis is that the age of the mother plays a large role in society's view of them, and that the level of
discrimination significantly increases the younger a mother is.
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Davis, Brittany (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Camille Peres
Digging Deeper: The Dichotomy between Defined Social Media Types and Distinct
Personality Traits
The research gathered seeks to provide additional insight regarding the trends and correlations between defined
types of Social Media, the time spent engaging in those Social Media types, the participants personality traits, and
other variables including gender, age, and education level. Specifically the research seeks to highlight any
correlations between the specific forms of social media an individual regularly engages in and any distinct personality
traits. Previous research tends to focus heavily on links between overall internet usage and specific personality traits.
However, as the amount and diversity of various forms of Social Media has increased exponentially, the research
delving further into the correlations between personality and the types of activities engaged in online have not. The
social media types whose rates of usage have been measured include the following: collaborative projects, blogs and
microblogs, content communities, social networking sites, virtual game worlds, and virtual social worlds. The
personality traits of the participants are defined according to the Five Factor Model, also known as the Big 5.
Information for analysis has been gathered via the Big Five Inventory survey developed by Oliver P. John and selfreport questionnaires. Statistical evaluations of all research gathered will be completed using Pearson's Correlation
Coefficient method of analysis.
Diribe, Nelly (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Mentoring Programs and Career Advancement
Mentoring and career advancement programs have become significant elements in the development of individual
and organizational success. Frequent changes have become an enduring feature of many work places, resulting in
complications for individual and career development. From an organization perspective, mentoring programs plays a
role in overall organizational competitiveness. Whereas from the employee perspective these programs have
become tools to create higher opportunities that may lead to increased career success. Though there has been
research on the advantages and disadvantages of mentoring programs, little research has focused on the design of
these mentoring programs that could limit employees and damage organizations in the future. This study examines
the question; how employees who were passed over for advancement within their organization are under the
likelihood of having negative responses toward the organization. Data will be collected through questionnaires by a
sample of University of Houston-Clear Lake graduate students.
Dong, Khang (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
The effect of infant massage on infant sleep patterns: A case study of early intervention on
an infant with sleep disturbance
An intervention of infant massage was studied on a 5-month old infant with sleep disturbance. Using instructional
strategies of massage from The Loving Touch training program for infant massage, the massage technique was
applied 20 minutes per day for a 3 week period. A pre- and post-test was completed using the Brief Infant Sleep
Questionnaire (BISQ) by the mother during the 3 week study to assess effectiveness of the intervention. The case
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study's results will conclude that there is a positive effect on infant sleep patterns and that infant massage is a tool
that parents and caregivers may utilize to promote healthy sleep patterns for infants at bedtime. The potential
benefits of this research serve to provide recommendations to assist parents in effectively addressing routines and
sleep cycles. The findings that are discussed will offer insight to the effectiveness of infant massage as an
intervention tool for parents and caregivers of infants with sleep disturbance.
Duffield, Timothy (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Ronald Phillips
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Standard Deviation of EMG Data: Comparing Measurements of Muscle Movement
In the past we have used EMG to observe muscle activity in a number of different scenarios: (1) drawing tasks, (2)
typing tasks, (3) key pressing tasks; (4) mouse- button clicking task; and (5) gaming tasks. These tasks were chosen
due to their close association with the use of office equipment. Existing research indicates that there is reason to be
concerned about the ergonomic effects of computers in the workplace. There are various degrees of movements
that are challenging to computer users (Hong, Corcos, Daniel, & Gottlieb, 1994). Complex muscle groups are
engaged to execute a particular task. Over time, the use of certain motions may be associated with a higher chance
for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) to occur. Further understanding of how to measure muscle activity is necessary
to identify different types of activity. We are interested in how much muscle exertion is involved within particular
tasks as well as whether the muscles are engaging in static or dynamic activities. Mean EMG is used as a measure of
muscle amplitude. Currently, there is not a well-defined measure to discern if a muscle is performing a static or
dynamic activity. We postulate that standard deviation of EMG can be used as a measure of comparison to
determine if a muscle is engaged in a static or dynamic activity; however there has been no systematic investigation
to confirm this.
Duong, Chinh (University of Houston-Clear Lake); David Russell, Nirag Shah
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
The Threshold for Behavioral Change to Keyboard Shortcuts
Studies show that efficient computer usage does not depend on the user's level of computer proficiency or software
design (Bhavnani & John, 1997), rather, the efficient usage depends on peer observation and the benefits perceived
by the users (Peres et al., 2004; Peres et al., 2005). In fact, there is a large body of research devoted to the factors
that encourage computer users to switch to more efficient keyboard methods, such as using keyboard shortcuts.
However, what the human factors field is missing is the knowledge of the predictability in the amount of time and
commands the users must make before switching to a more efficient method. The current study is designed to fill in
this knowledge gap.
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Elam, Kristin (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Deborah Scanapico
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kathryn Jaspers
The Role of the Licensed Specialist in School Psychology in Behavior Response to
Intervention
The role of the Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP)in Behavior Response to Intervention (Behavior RtI) is
evolving. This study examined data from surveys handed out at the 2011 Texas Association of School Psychologists
conference. Ninety-two LSSP's specified the intervention task and tier in which they have an active role. Results
support that consultation with teachers is a prominent LSSP role in Behavior RtI across tier levels and special
education. Many LSSPs also indicated that they model or demonstrate behavior management strategies often for
teachers across tier levels and special education. Additionally, there were many roles that LSSPs perform such as
conducting formal functional behavior assessment, collecting data, and modifying behavior plans for Tier III students
or for special education students. Surprisingly, participation in data analysis was not among the top five roles.
Implications from this study may reveal areas of further role development for LSSPs in providing service delivery of
behavior intervention at each tier.
Elizondo, Marcos (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
Alcohol and Drug Treatment Demographics
My statistic project will be measuring: age, gender, arrest, diagnosis, zip code of clients admitted into alcohol and
drug treatment at Second Mile Family Education and Counseling, a non-contract service provider for Harris County
Community Supervision and Corrections Department (HCCSCD). My statistic project will also be measuring success
rates of clients completing alcohol and drug program based on results of drug tests, admissions of alcohol or drug
use, participation within a support group, employment status, meeting conditions of probation. The question to
answer is what is the most important factor leading to being admitted into an alcohol or drug treatment program?.
Epperson, Garrett (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Lizbeth Figueroa
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
Social Media's Effect on College Students
Social Media's popularity has increased dramatically since the dawn of the 21st century. This is due mostly to the
wave of technology which allows users internet access almost anywhere and at any time. We propose that social
media is negatively impacting students academically in areas such as time spent studying, grade point average,
classes dropped, and classes skipped. Time spent on these sites will have a high a correlation with students academic
achievement either positive or negative. We also will analyze what factors lead to social media use or deter its use.
The methodology we will use to conduct our research project is through a questionnaire survey consisting of 30
question that will be passed out to 70-80 college students.
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Fournette, Janay' (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
Play and Procedure: Using Verbal and Visual Prompts with Play Based Interventions to
Positively Impact the Childs Ability to Recognize Whose Turn It Is When Playing.
Although play is done by many children, they sometimes do not know how to take turns. In particular children who
are autistic need prompts to help them understand and independently engage in the skills. This research sought to
explore the effectiveness of using visual and verbal prompts during play-based interventions, with a child diagnosed
with autism. This research, conducted in the form of a single subject case study, sought to observe does verbal and
visual prompts with play based interventions positively impact a childs ability to recognize whose turn it is when
playing. Pre and post data of independent skills in social interactions were obtained. Results of the research serve to
provide a basis for further research and provide special education teachers insights on effective strategies for
increasing social skills of children with autism.
Franks, Michael (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dr. George Guillen
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. George Guillen
The Determination of Total Mercury in Offshore Reef Fish Based on Habitat Preference and
Geographical Location
Mercury is an extremely dangerous toxic pollutant that is found in offshore reef fish. Mercury bioaccumulates up the
food chain so it is more concentrated in top tier predators. For this study three of the most popular fish caught
recreationally offshore, Red Snapper, Blackfin Tuna and Grouper, were used to determine total mercury
concentrations. These fish species were selected for thier differing preference in habitat. Blackfin Tuna represents
epipelagic, Red Snapper represents mesopelagic, and grouper represents benthic habitats. These three different fish
species were further split into three Gulf Coast regions, upper (Galveston), middle (Freeport), and lower (Port
Aransas) to determine which geographic location has the highest mercury concentration. Tissue was extracted from
180 different fish and was then analyzed in the lab using a Direct Mercury Analyzer to determine total mercury
concentrations. Initial findings on species differences indicate that the epipelagic Blackfin Tuna has more than double
the concentration of mercury than Red Snapper and Grouper, while initial findings on geographical differences
indicate that species caught in Galveston have higher mercury concentrations than those caught in Freeport and Port
Aransas.
Galford, Kyler (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Rachel Hensley
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. W. Jared DuPree
Examining the Influence of Chronic Pain Conditions on Intimacy between Couples
According to a report issued by the Institute of Medicine (2011), it is currently estimated that 116 million American
adults suffer from chronic pain. It has also been reported that "couples facing chronic pain experience more
psychological and relationship distress than healthy couples" (Cano, et al., 2005). While the notable effect of chronic
pain conditions on the individual have been frequently reported, it is also important to recognize that research has
widely shown that medical conditions have a profound impact on the family system (Rolland, 2003). In addition,
chronic pain conditions may exacerbate problems for couples who are already experiencing relationship difficulties.
Due to the growing number of individuals struggling to treat and manage chronic pain conditions, and the
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assumption that these individulas' intimate relationships will be affected, this study aims to examine the influence of
chronic pain conditions on relational intimacy. The researcher focused on committed relationships defined by the
authors as a marital or romantic partnership in which both partners agree to a monogamous and intimate sharing of
their lives. For the purpose of this study, the researchers define chronic pain according to the definition set forth by
the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) which is "pain without apparent biological value that has
persisted beyond normal issue healing time", which is typically determined to be 3 months (Carr, 2003). Emotional
intimacy is regarded as experiencing a closeness of feeling, including comfort with self-disclosure of intimate feelings
(Olsen, 1981), while sexual intimacy is identified as the experience of sharing general affection and/or sexual activity,
including comfort with sexual expression (Olsen, 1981). Participants were recruited through chiropractic offices,
fitness centers, the University of Houston-Clear Lake's research pool, and social networking sites. Participants were
asked to take an online questionnaire and survey designed on Survey Monkey, which included demographic
information (i.e., chronic pain conditions reported by self or partner) and three previously developed, empirically
validated measurements: the Pain Rating Scale, the Three Couples Scales, and the Functional Assessment of Non-Life
Threatening Conditions (FANLTC) (Jensons & Karloy, 2001, Olson, Larson, & Olson, 2009, Webster et al., 1999).
Additionally, a control group was gathered for comparison purposes. General results are anticipated to provide a
better understanding of how chronic pain conditions influence dyadic intimacy. The authors' hypotheses are: (1)
chronic pain conditions will have a negative impact on emotional intimacy; and (2) chronic pain conditions will have a
negative impact on sexual intimacy. Additionally, the authors predict this effect will be most pronounced in couples
where there is a high level of physical impairment and in those reporting symptoms of mood disorders. The main
goal of this study is to provide information that may enhance the knowledge of mental health professionals in order
to provide more comprehensive care to this growing population. Specifically, the authors express the need for more
extensive research in the future, to help enrich marriage and family therapists' understanding of these couples
unique struggle.
Gardner, Jason (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Leticia Love, Kordette Wattley, Erin Young
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Alex Milam
Workspace Design and Employee Engagement and Commitment
Research suggests that an employee's workspace can affect their morale, productivity, and job satisfaction. This
project seeks to suggest that there is a relationship between workspace design and employee engagement and
commitment. Data will be collected and analyzed on data collection day at University of Houston, Clear Lake.
Participants will be approximately ninety graduate, male and female students attending UHCL. Participants will be
from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. Only persons who are employed full or part time will be included in this
survey. Full time will be classified as 1-34 hours and part time as 35 hours or more. The hypotheses postulate that:
H1 - Employees who work in cubicles will express less affective committment than employees who work in traditional
offices. H2 - Employees who work in cubicles will express more normative committment than employees who work in
traditional offices. H3 - Employees who work in flex offices will express higher levels of engagement than employees
who work in traditional offices. H4 - Employees who work in cubicles will express lower levels of engagement than
employees who work in traditional offices. On data collection day handouts will be given to each participant, which
will include the instructions for the survey. Each participant will then be able to log in anonymously to
www.surveymonkey.com/s/uhclofficespace and complete the survey. Demographic data, including gender, age and
employment status and location will be the first questions on the survey. Questions designed to measure their levels
of workplace engagement and effective and normative commitment will then be completed. Participants who are
not employed will be asked to exit the survey since their data will not be analyzed. Seventeen questions from the
Utrecht Work Engagement Scale(UWES) and eight from the Affective Commitment Scale (ACS) and eight questions
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from the Normative Commitment Scale (NCS) will be included in the survey. Data will be analyzed using SPSS to
determine if our hypotheses are supported or rejected.
Garza, Natasha (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
Is our scoiety lyrically influenced?
I plan to do my research project on respondent's attitudes about music, types of music they listen to, and the content
of music (violence, sex, censorship etc.). I would measure the following: age groups,type of music, common themes.
Likert scale based questions would be asked regarding social desensitization. There would be a blank space at the
end of the survey for qualitative feedback. There would be a question regarding how many hours are spent on
average listening to music. There would also be a question regarding the possible influences of music.
Geron, Christen (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Helen Fuchs, Clifton Brantley
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. W. Jared Dupree
An Examination of the Depression and Anxiety Symptoms Experienced in Grandparents
Raising Grandchildren
A current trend in society today is the emergence of grandparents having to raise their grandchildren, even after they
have raised their own children. These grandparents may have more stressors in their life now when compared to the
time they were raising their children. Some research has been conducted to illustrate the effects on grandparents
raising their grandchildren as negative for the grandparents' health. However, here we will explore the specific area
of psychological health of depression and anxiety symptoms related to raising grandchildren.
Greenshield, Dorothy (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Theodore Thourson
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Parents' Perceptions and Mediation of Cyberbullying
As social media has become an integral part of an adolescents everyday life, bullying has been transformed into a
technology-based form of harassment and abuse called cyberbullying. Recent incidents of cyberbullying have been
prominent in the news as several children have resorted to taking their own lives after being bullied via these new
forms of technology. These attacks can be very private, such as a text message from one cell phone to another, or
very public, a picture or video posted on Facebook or Twitter for the entire world to see. While parents provide the
first and often only line of defense against cyberbullying attacks aimed at their children, prior research indicates that
they are often unaware of these attacks. By surveying parents of a local soccer club, this study attempts to identify a
correlation between parental use of social media and awareness of cyberbullying.
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Greenup, Amanda (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Dorothea Lerman
Advance Notice and Transitions: Comparing 2-min advance notice and 10-s advance notice
plus differential reinforcement of alternative behavior with and without extinction
This study examined the effects of a 2-min advance notice, or warning, and a 10-s advance notice as interventions for
problem behavior during transitions to an activity. Results for both participants showed that advance notice, in the
absence of extinction, was ineffective at decreasing problem behavior during transitions. After extinction had been
included in treatment, problem behavior decreased and independent responses increased.
Greer, Deborah (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
Teacher Outlook of Accelerated Reading Program
This study is to explore teacher's perceptions associated with the AR program in respect to the promotion of
independent reading. The Accelerated Reader program is utilized in a number of school systems throughout the
United States. Many districts require that teachers use the program as an assessment of reading comprehension for
students. Additionally, school systems often promote the use of AR reading program on the basis the program helps
students with motivation for independent reading practices and comprehension. Surveys and interviews will gather
teacher beliefs about whether Accelerated Reader has positive affect on independent reading practices of their
students. A student survey distributed at the same time, will explore student perception of AR program in regards to
fostering independent reading practices. Survey consists of ten questions distributed to forty teachers in a public
school system. The survey is distributed to twenty students in the same public school system. Personal interviews of
both secondary and elementary level teachers are included in study. Organization of data collected is according to
three categories. Research data survey motivation perceptions for independent reading, notations of positive
benefits of AR program, and perceived negative factors to AR program based on student and teacher response. In
addition to action based research project, data collected will reflect resource information from Education Journals,
Books, and prior research on AR program. Research in this area has offered both negative and positive aspects for AR
program.
Griffiths, Elizabeth (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Melissa Magnino, Daniel Steinberg
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Obsessive-Compulsive Intrusive Thoughts and Clinician Stigma
Individuals who suffer from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder have persistent intrusive thoughts that cause severe
distress which impairs daily functioning. These individuals often conceal their intrusive thoughts and delay helpseeking for fear of being stigmatized. Stigma can be problematic when it is present among mental health
professionals because they may distance themselves from their clients and have a negative outlook on treatment
outcome. To date there has not been any research that focuses on clinician stigma towards obsessive-compulsive
intrusive thoughts; however, there is evidence that mental health professionals may have prejudices towards people
who suffer from other mental illnesses. The current study explores clinician and student clinician attitudes towards
obsessive-compulsive intrusive thoughts. The participants are randomly divided into four groups and each group is
asked to read one vignette describing a person afflicted with one subtype of obsessive-compulsive intrusive
thoughts. The participants are then instructed to complete a stigma questionnaire regarding the vignette and a
demographic survey. Analysis of this data is then presented to understand clinician and student clinician attitudes
towards obsessive-compulsive intrusive thoughts.
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Guerra, Jennifer (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Regina Duffey, James Fowler
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
Race, Crime, and the Public's Perception
Our group is conducting a research investigation on the public's view and attitude towards race and crime. Our group
is interested in exploring race and crime across social, racial, and educational lines. It will be intriguing to note how
the different races experience crime and their perceptions of criminality in regard to the offender's race and specific
crimes. We would like our survey to provide a question that asked: "What race commits the most theft (murder,
rape, drug offenses, etc.)" Also, we believe that it is important to note if the respondent has ever been a victim of
crime, by incorporating a yes or no question, avoiding type of victimization, and ask for the race of the offender, if
known. In addition, we would like to ask respondents their thoughts on local law enforcement agencies in regard to
racial profiling. We will insure the respondent's anonymity and questions will be asked in a questionnaire format.
Harnett, Lauren (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Stuart Larson
A Snowboarder's Odyssey
Although snowboardings popularity soared in the 1970s and 1980s, snowboarding did not become part of the
Olympics until 1998 when the Halfpipe and Giant Slalom events were added. Snowboarding champions such as Terje
Haakonsen, Shaun Palmer, Travis Rice and Shaun White have helped popularize the sport through their winning runs
in snowboarding competitions, the latter most recently helping to turn snowboarding into a household word. Even
though its reputation grows more and more each year, there remains a relatively small amount of print media
available to the general population for their edification and enjoyment. This illustrative Snowboarders Odyssey is
intended to add to the limited amount of published material available to snowboard enthusiasts. It is intended to
excite and inform, and to be a visual aide to those contemplating, or just beginning, their own snowboarding
odyssey.
Hodde, Henry (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kathleen Garland
An Evaluation of Coastal Storm Damage to Increase Community Resilience on the Upper
Texas Gulf Coast
Coastal communities undergo record-breaking disasters year after year. The Upper Texas Gulf Coast recently
experienced the 3rd costliest storm event in United States history with Hurricane Ike in September of 2008.
Resilience has emerged as a key concept to help communities cope with vulnerabilities and risk from disasters. A
resilient community is one that can maintain and restore essential functions and structures in response to natural
and manmade stressors. Local planning is an important tool for increasing resilience and reducing losses following
natural disasters. To plan effectively, local data is needed; particularly data sets that reveal vulnerability. Currently, I
am collecting damage data from Hurricane Ike to generate a comprehensive picture of Hurricane Ike damage. These
data sets include wind and flood claims, community damage assessments, and FEMA floodplain data. This data will
be used to reveal the most vulnerable areas in the study area, and can be used to help planners mitigate future risks
and develop sustainably.
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Hoffman, Jaymie (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Michelle McGuire, Desiree Walker
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Ward
Religious identity priming and prosocial behavior
Previous research has demonstrated that social statuses (i.e. stereotype threat) as well as implicit religious stimuli
can have an impact on behaviors. In the present study, we are interested in the relationship between prosocial
responding and religious identification as a priming mechanism. There is a lack of indication among the research that
shows whether or not religious identification impacts responding in studies. The current study addresses the
relationship of religious identification as a priming mechanism on prosocial behaviors. Participants will complete a
survey assessing their religiosity and religious identification either prior to (experimental group) or after (control
group) a measure of prosocial behavior. Religiosity will be measure using Batson's Revised Quest scale (Batson &
Schoenrade, 1991b) and the I/E Revised Scales (Gorsuch & McPherson, 1989) and prosocial behavior will be
measured using the Prosocial Tendencies Measure (Carlo & Randall, 2002). We expect that participants who identify
with their religiosity prior to responding to a measure of prosocial behavior will exhibit a higher prosocial score than
the control. If the expected results are found, it will be methodologically important to note that religious
identification may alter responding depending on if the information is assessed before or after the experimental
session or questionnaire.
Jabitta, Wendy (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Veronica Benitez, Jane Downs, Kristina Partridge
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Ward
Musical Tempo and Musical Lyrics Effect on Aggression
Previous research has shown that aggressive lyrics result in higher scores on aggression scales, and that musical
tempo also causes changes in thoughts and behaviors. However, not much research has been done on the effect of
musical lyrics in combination with musical tempo on aggression. The purpose of our research will be to better
understand the effect of musical tempo on aggression and whether musical tempo increases aggression. Data will be
collected from approximately 60 graduate students at a southwestern university. Participants will be given the BussPerry Questionnaire to measure aggression. Participants will be divided into assigned groups and played one of four
musical selections: 1) high tempo with aggressive lyrics, 2) low tempo with aggressive lyrics, 3) high tempo with nonaggressive lyrics, or 4) low tempo with non-aggressive lyrics. Lyrics of each song will be presented along with the
music. At the conclusion of the song, the Buss-Perry Questionnaire will be administered again. It is predicted that
high musical tempo will also result in an increase of aggression scores. This increase will likely be greater than that
observed by aggressive lyrics demonstrated in previous research.
Jangly, Giridhar Prasad (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Sri Hari Chandan, Appikonda, Hardik Jani, Bhushan
Waghulde, Desirelys Carreon
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lory Z. Santiago Vazquez
The Creation of a gene expression profile of the soft coral Eunicea fusca
Coral reefs have enormous economic and environmental value. However, their habitat is being threatened by
stressors such as abnormal ocean temperatures, increased UV radiation, ocean acidification, and bacterial infections.
These stressors can cause coral bleaching; the loss of their symbiotic dinoflagellate symbiodinium sp. Bleaching
weakens the immune system and may result in reduced coral health and may ultimately lead to death. The cellular
signalling pathway leading to this phenomenon in soft corals remains largely unknown. The soft coral Eunicea fusca
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was selected as a model to evaluate the molecular response of stress in coral since it is abundant, easy to collect, and
respond to stress by bleaching. We have successfully created a cDNA library from stressed and non-stressed
E.fusca. The library is in the process of being sequenced. The complete genetic expression profile of the organism will
be obtained once the sequencing of the transcriptome (cDNA library) is done. Long term goal include study of gene
expression after stressors such as abnormal temperatures, salinity and pH. This will allow the identification of
potential genes involved with the stress response in corals. This study will enable us to develop a molecular model of
stress in E.fusca that might be used as a model in future studies of other soft corals.
Johnson, Kyle (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Michael (Sang Yeob) Lee
Objects in Space: Game Programming With ActionScript 3
Focusing on the game production process from conception to final release using Adobe Flash ActionScript 3.
Presentation will explore story-boarding, artwork creation, soundtrack and sound effect creation, and the basics of
game programming including: movement and function controls, object collisions, enemy A.I., and damage and
scoring. The presentation will examine the benefits and limitations of Adobe Flash as a platform for game
development and alternative platforms.
Jones, JoAnna (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dorothea Lerman, Sarah Lechago
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Dorothea Lerman
The Assessment of Generalization and Stimulus Control in Social Skills Training for
Children with Autism
The present study was conducted in order to evaluate generalization and the role of stimulus control in social skills
training. Participants received social skills training while all variables, including trainer, setting, and materials, were
held consistent. Once mastery criterion was reached, generalization to novel adults and peers was assessed. Results
show generalization of the social skill to a novel adult, but only partial generalization to a peer. A subsequent probe,
in which generalization to a novel adult and peer was assessed with novel materials and in a novel setting, suggested
that the recipient of the social behavior (i.e. adult versus peer) solely controlled responding. We hypothesized that
the participants' reinforcement history with adults versus peers was responsible for the differences in generalization.
In lieu of directly exposing participants to a reinforcement history with peers, we evaluated the effects of observing a
video that showed a peer engaged in the target behavior with another peer, who provided reinforcement for the
social response. Results, which show mastery level generalization to a peer after video viewing, suggest that video
viewing may be an effective and efficient way to promote generalization to peers. Results also provide evidence that
social skills training can decrease problem behavior.
Kanji, Alkarim (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Otaresiri Lorraine Inije
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Phillip Decker
STAR+PLUS Waiver Upgrades Evaluation Project
Abstract Objective. : To assess (1) the barriers experienced by a Texas Health Plan that may lead to untimely
submission of Medicaid STAR+PLUS Waiver (SPW) Upgrade assessments to the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare
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Partnership (TMHP) and (2) the extent to which those barriers impact the timeliness of the submission to TMHP.
Design. : A descriptive/observational design. Setting. : A Texas Medicaid STAR+PLUS Health Plan Participants. : One
hundred and eighty upgrade assessment records Method. : Unobtrusive measure; data is pulled from archived
database of all SPW upgrade referrals. Each SPW upgrade record includes the date the health plan received the
referral, the date the assessment was completed, the date the physician signature was received and the date the
upgrade assessment was submitted to the TMHP. Main Outcome Measures. : All SPW upgrade referrals received by
the Health Plan in September 2010 were reviewed for; (1) Compliance with the Texas Health and Human Services
Commission (HHSC) policy which requires that all upgrade assessments must be processed and submitted by the
Health Plan to TMHP within 30 days of the Health Plans receipt of the referral. (2) Compliance with the Health Plans
internal policies which requires that (1) all "upgrade" home assessment visits should be completed within 3 days of
receipt, (2) physician signatures for each assessment should be received by the health plan within 14 days of the
assessment. Results. : One hundred and eighty-two records were reviewed. The number of upgrade referrals that
were not submitted to TMHP within 30 days was 118 (65.56%). Home visit assessments were not completed within 3
days of the Health Plans receipt of the upgrade referral for 40 (22.22%) of the 182 referrals and physician signatures
were not received within 14 days for 75 (41.67%) of the records reviewed. Conclusions. : (1) Although untimely
completion of the home visit assessment and untimely receipt of the physician signature by the Health Plan both
impact the timeliness of the Health Plans submission of SPW upgrade packets to TMHP, untimely receipt of the
physician signature has a greater impact on the timeliness of the final TMHP submission. (2) An intervention that
includes assignment of specific staff to follow-up and collect physician signatures can improve the Health Plans timely
submission of SPW upgrade referrals to TMHP.
Kemp, Kim (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Stacie Baccinelli, Charlotte Manning
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
The Effects of Chair Ergonomics Information of Musculoskeletal Disorders Awareness
The purpose of this study is to test the effects of chair ergonomics information of musculoskeletal disorders. The
chair ergonomics information will either cause a change or no change in the awareness of musculoskeletal disorders.
Research has shown musculoskeletal disorders have caused approximately 1 million people to take time away from
work (Robertson et al.,2007) and are also one of the leading causes of injuries for working age adults (Bohr, 2000).
Most of these injuries are caused by workers not being aware of chair ergonomics. (Robertson et al.,2007). In five
conditions, five participants were recruited to participate in each condition. Participants will only read text, only view
a video, read text and view a video, or view a video and read text, and a control. Each participant will complete a
pre-test survey that will examine sitting position, posture, chair comfort, chair style, foot position, computer screen
level, chair features, and chair ventilation. The pre-test survey will allow participants to rate their musculoskeletal
awareness using an agreement/disagreement level prior to being exposed to the chair ergonomics information.
Additionally, each participant will complete a post-test survey that will ask the same questions as the pre survey in
addition to a few questions rating the information that was examined. The participants score on the post survey was
greater compared to the pre survey. The participants changed their posture during the readings and/or viewings of
the materials. We did not find any discrepancies of age, gender, and classification as confounding variables.
Kerr, Christina (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Phuong-Thao Vu
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Sadegh Davari
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Cloud Computing for Businesses
Cloud computing is the latest buzz word in computer networking. Many companies and individuals have already
started jumping on board, taking full advantage of the cloud. But what is cloud computing? How does it work and is it
right for every individual; for every company? What are the challenges involved? These are the questions which keep
many from venturing into the world of cloud computing. The purpose of this paper is to provide information to
companies interested in cloud computing. This paper is geared towards a more business oriented audience. Each
section is supplemented with diagrams and summary tables to help guide the reader through some of the more
abstract concepts. Ultimately, we hope to help businesses make informed decisions on whether to utilize cloud
computing, or stay with the more traditional methods of server allocation. This document is divided up into three
main sections. First we address what is cloud computing and discuss the different service and deployment models
from a business standpoint. We cover the three common service models: Infrastructure as a Service, Platform as a
Service, and Software as a Service. For each service model there are four main deployment models: public,
community, private and hybrid. Combined with the three service models, there are a total of twelve possible cloud
combinations a business can choose from. With so many options, deciding what to choose can be intimidating. In this
section we break down each topic into easy digestible pieces making the cloud more clear and less cloudy. In the
second section we move into business cases for the cloud. The various service and deployment models have different
strengths companies can take advantage of. We outline those strengths paying mind that depending on a companys
size, budget, and type of business, their cloud tendencies will vary. At the end of each sub-section we include a table
summarizing our research. These summary tables provide details on what kind of clouds other businesses tend to
use. Knowing what others have done may help the decision process for your own company. In addition, seeing how
the cloud may not be a viable option for everyone, we also address cases where companies tend to stay away from
cloud computing entirely. Although cloud computing may have alluring benefits, we touch on the questions that
make companies hesitate when adopting a cloud architecture. This last section reveals the darker side of cloud
computing ranging from security concerns and legal issues, to negotiation of an adequate service level agreement.
These challenges could be potential obstacles for companies, and are areas to be aware of before going down the
cloud route. Overall, we hope this paper is both helpful and informative for companies looking into adopting cloud
computing, and perhaps even those who already have adopted cloud computing. We expose the readers to both
pros and cons of cloud computing so that they can understand the cloud from all sides.
Ladd, Erika (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Cindy Howard
Analysis of Trends in Workers Compensation Claims and the Development of Occupational
Safety Programs to Mitigate Worker Injuries
Workplace injuries are of a serious concern to any employer. Employers are constantly researching and investing
money in the development of safety programs, with the hopes of eliminating or at least mitigating worker injuries.
Many times the most pertinent information relating to the root cause of worker injury can be found within the walls
of the company. For this project, the workers compensation files at a Large University in South East Texas will be
analyzed for correlations between demographic factors (age, years of employment, job title and department) and
worker injuries. With the information ascertained, current safety programs will be reviewed and new programs will
be developed to reduce the worker injuries.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Landry, Sean (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Cindy Howard
Production of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) by Escherichia coli K12
using Palm Oil as the Carbon Source
I conducted research to evaluate whether Escherichia coli K12(E. coli), when inoculated in a high carbon source of
palm oil, would produce polyesters in the form of Poly(3-hydroxybuyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate)or PHBH.
Laboratory grown K12 E. coli was introduced to 100ml of palm oil and under ideal time and temperature, using shake
flask studies, was allowed to exponentially reproduce and digest the nutrient rich source. Growth temperature was
maintained at 33c while rotating at 90 rpm for a period of 96 hours. During this period of time spectrophotometer
measurements were taken at 24 hour intervals to evaluate turbidity of the culture and observe growth. At the end of
the growth period, biomass was collected through centrifuge and dissolved in solvent to extract and collect PHBH.
FT-IR and NMR analytical were performed to identify the components of the collected material to determine if it
indeed displayed any chemical traits of polyesters. Results indicated through Fourier Transform Infrared Spetroscopy
and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance that the subjects material peaks were compliant with those of polyesters in that
they displayed a large grouping of esters along with CH2, CH3, C-O groups.
Lee, Eric (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Jared Broussard
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Therapists and Therapists-in-Training, Differences in Risk-Taking and In-Session Focus
Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP) has been shown to enhance cognitive therapy, producing a greater focus on
the client-therapist relationship. This focus during sessions adds to the efficacy of treatment. Clients who work with
therapists who use FAP techniques report greater improvements in their daily life. FAP techniques can significantly
shape client in-session behavior in predictable ways and suggests that this behavior shaping can affect out-of-session
behavior. This study seeks to identify differences between therapists and therapists-in-training relating to the FAP
principles of risk taking and in-session focus. This will give insight into the type of training therapists are receiving
and whether they are learning FAP-related techniques. A survey was given to both therapists and therapists-in
training that assessed therapeutic style and in-session behavior. The data will be analyzed to compare these styles
and behaviors with the FAP principles of risk taking and in-session focus. It will consider whether these skills are
learned with experience or are something that could be taught to improve client outcomes.
Lewis, Raquel (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
Effective Treatments used by Occupational Therapist for Sensory Processing Disorders
Sensory Processing Disorder is commonly treated by occupational therapist. An anonymous questionnaire was
created by Survey Monkey website to gather data about the different types of treatments occupational therapists
believe are the strategies to use for Sensory Modulation Disorder and Sensory Based Motor Disorder in the area of
Bilateral Integration and Sequencing. The purposed of this research is to learn what strategies are best to use when
working with children who have a sensory processing disorder.
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Liu, Yufeng (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mattie C. Porter
The Impact of the FCPA on Chinese Business
This presentation will analyze how the fraud and anti-corruption provisions of the U.S Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
(FCPA) impacts businesses in China. The FCPA was enacted in 1997 and includes prohibitions against bribery and
deceptive record keeping. The act does not apply only to U.S citizens and U.S companies but also applies to foreign
firms and persons who cause, directly or through agents, an act in furtherance of such a corrupt payment to take
place within the territory of the United States. The analysis will examine several cases involving Chinese companies
where violations of the FCPA were alleged. The presentation will conclude with a discussion of the implications of the
FCPA for businesses in China.
Mannathikuzhiyil, Anu (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Christopher Lee
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Psychosocial Stress Effects on Task Performance
Research has shown that multiple stressors at work can lead to negative consequences for employees wellbeing,
including psychological, physical, and behavioral changes (Cooper, Dewe, & ODriscoll, 2001). This research is
relevant to organizations and to the workforce because it is attempting to determine whether stress accrued as a
result of work affects task performance. Psychological strains such as anxiety, tension, dissatisfaction, and
counterproductive behaviors have traditionally been the focus of work stress research, but Coopers et al. (2001)
review of the occupational stress literature highlighted behavioral changes, especially those directly related to job
performance.The purpose of our study is to examine whether psychosocial stress has an effect on task performance.
If it is true that psychosocial stress effects task performance, this could have implications in countless occupations.
To introduce stress to the participants in the experimental condition we will be implementing a modified version of
the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). The TSST has been tested and proved valid and reliable for introducing
psychosocial stress in participants. Upon completion of the TSST, participants will complete a twelve-question exam
designed to test computational ability, which we are considering task performance. The researchers predict that
participants in the experimental condition will experience significantly lower scores on the task performance exam
than what is expected for participants in the control condition.
Manning, Olivia (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Angelina Barajas-Valdez, Amanda Langston
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
How does working affect a students GPA?
Obtaining a 4.0 grade point average (GPA) can be very difficult especially on a student who must work while
attending a university, but just how much influence does working have on a students GPA? Does working have a
larger effect on the GPA if the work is done at night? In this project we discuss the factors that we believe affect a
students GPA in a negative manner. We will attempt to answer these questions and many more by conducting a
short survey of random students at our local university (University of Houston - Clear Lake). We will look at a broad
spectrum of students of different races, ages, sexes, marital status', and whether or not children live in the home of
the student. This information is important because it will help show parents, professors, and students how much of a
strain working places on a students educational success.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Mathews, Hunter (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Paul Feiler, Lisa Thompson
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Dave Malin
The effect of nicotine withdrawal on sleep quantity and quality in the rat
This study focuses on the effect of nicotine withdrawal on sleep quantity and quality in the rat. A significant body of
research correlates nicotine withdrawal with the debilitating symptoms that lead to relapse, however research on
sleep disturbances in humans is inconsistent in method and contradictory in results; there is a lack of research in rats.
This study employs a previously validated rodent model, which has been an effective predictor of the nature and
extent of nicotine withdrawal symptoms in humans. Subjects, 6 male Sprague-Dawley rats, will undergo EEG and
EMG preparatory surgery and will subsequently receive continuous infusion of nicotine tartrate for seven days.
Subjects will be monitored by EEG and EMG and recordings will be collected pre nicotine exposure, during nicotine
exposure, and post nicotine expose (withdrawal period) to gather data on sleep. Behavior will be classified by
wakefulness (W), non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREM), and rapid eye movement (REM).
McGhan, Anna (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dorothea Lerman
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Dorothea Lerman
An Assessment of Error Correction Procedures in Children with Autism
Past research has produced conflicting results showing that some learners perform best with active student
responding while others have not found one error correction method to be more effective than other methods for all
participants. Therefore the previous research has demonstrated that simple and efficient procedures can be just as
effective as more effortful and complex procedures for certain individuals. This study aimed to develop a quick and
effective error correction assessment to aid in determining which error correction procedure would be the most
beneficial and least intrusive for an individual during skill acquisition.
McGrew, Fred (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Cindy Howard
Evaluation of the Relationship between pH and Tannin-Lignin Concentrations Among
Natural and Urban Sites on the Rio Negro, Amazonas, Brazil
The Rio Negro is one of the largest and most unique rivers in the world. The black waters' signature color is due to
high concentrations of tannins and lignins. I evaluated the relationship of pH vs. tannin-lignin concentrations after
performing over 120 water samples in Amazonas, Brazil. Samples were taken at pristine sites (Jau National Park) and
compared to urban areas such as the city of Manuas. I am currently performing statistical analysis of the data. Results
will be available in time for the conference.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Mead, Valerie (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian
The Importance of Women in Non-Western Texts
This piece describes briefly the stereotypes associated with women--that they are weak, subservient, and docile--and
how this relates to Eastern, or Non-Western, texts. These women could be real or fictional, but their representation
in the literature was still highly relevant as it pointed out social, cultural, and gender differences between our world
and the world of the East, whether it be current or in the ancient past. As a majority of female characters in these
types of works are seen in a primarily negative light, it is always important to study the female characters that
deviate from this format. By studying these women, we can see characters and authors alike who refute the roles
that were placed upon them by society and presented themselves in a fashion that they felt was more appropriate.
These changes led to complete defiance as they relate to gender roles are significant and important to study because
they all played significant roles in their given worlds, and they also helped to shatter the preconceived notions that
others have about them and their role in society. Examples of these types of groundbreaking female characters as
well as the authors who wrote them can be seen and studied in many Non-Western works. When studying this
subject, I made a point of researching relatively common and obvious female characters so that my examples would
not be too obscure for the reader to understand; however, some examples are somewhat obscure because of their
complete dismissal of their assigned gender roles. The women and characters mentioned in my work are Jamaica
Kincaid, as an author and a subject for her book _A Small Place_, the character of Lenny from _Cracking India_ as well
as the author of that novel, Bapsi Sidhwa, and the iconic character of Sita from the _Ramayana_. Spread out
throughout time and geographic location (though still Non-Western), these female characters and authors
challenged the status quo by disagreeing with the idea of gender specific stereotypes in Non-Western literature.
Meers, Jessica(University of Houston-Clear Lake); Lauren Harrison, Mackenzie Spellman, Mary Short
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Does Relationship Type Matter in Regard to Sexual Behaviors and Emotional Experience?
Previous research has examined only committed versus non-committed relationships; yet, some have found that
there are more than just these types of relationships. One study found that types of single sexual relationships, such
as One Night Stands or Booty Calls, are associated with different patterns of sexual behavior. However previous
research has failed to look at whether or not different types of relationships specifically lead to increased rates of
infection, sexual risk behavior or emotional distress. The present study aims to examine operational definitions
associated with those relationships as well as the types of behavior commonly associated with each. These types of
sexual behavior often include an increased risk of STD exposure, emotionally distressing factors, and all of the other
risks associated with unprotected sexual activity. Data collection procedures will include a survey that will contain
questions regarding sexual behaviors and emotions related to those behaviors. The survey will be administered
online through surveymonkey.com. We expect to find that some behaviors are more common with specific
relationship types, with certain relationship types associated with more risky behaviors. It is our belief that people
who are in more non-committed relationships will participate in more risky behavior. It is expected that a One Night
Stand will carry with it more risky behaviors because it will more often be associated with sex than the other
relationship types. If relationship types matter in regards to the sexual behaviors, future interventions could target
better methods of prevention and protection of the individuals participating in them.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Meusburger, Toby (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Natalie Russian, Shelley Smith
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Ward
Sexual Intrusive Thoughts, Religiosity, and Sexual Identity
Some studies have shown that high levels of religiosity are related to greater levels of distress a person experiences
from sexual intrusive thoughts (SITs). Other studies have shown a lack of relationship between these two variables.
The degree to which religion stigmatizes sexual activity may be one of the factors that mediates or moderates this
relationship. Another possible explanation for the conflicting results in the literature is that a person's religiosity
during developmentally significant portion of their life may be a more significant factor than their current religiosity.
We expect that if this were the case, the relationship between religiosity and distress from SITs would be stronger in
groups that are more heavily stigmatized. This study will measure the relationship between both a person's current
and developmental religiosity as well as how they identify their sexual orientation, and the level of distress they
experience from sexual intrusive thoughts. Subjects will be recruited both online using snowball recruiting and from
a student population via an online survey. We expect to find that LGB individuals who are more often the target of
stigma in religious traditions will experience more distress from their sexual intrusive thoughts if they report high
levels of religiosity, past or present. We expect to find that an individual's developmental religiosity will have a
greater impact on distress from sexual intrusive thoughts for both groups. However, we expect a stronger
correlation within the LGB group.
Middleton, Jessica (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Chongmin Na
Does Sex Offender Treatment in Texas Prisons Lower Recidivism by Increasing SelfControl? Further Exploring Gottfredson and Hirschis Self-Control Stability Hypothesis
With sex crimes on the rise and prison overcrowding becoming a very real problem in Texas, it is critical that
resources are allocated accurately and efficiently. Limited research and data only add to the difficulty for state
decision makers. Gottfredson and Hirschi (1990, 2001) are well known for their introduction of the self-control
theory, which held that parental socialization had a significant impact on a childs self-control, conclusively until the
ages of eight or ten, and that self-control would remain relatively stable throughout life, i.e. stability hypothesis.
Albeit marginal, there is subsequent research that supports the stability hypothesis (Arneklev, Cochran and Gainey,
1998; Turner and Piquero, 2002, Beaver and Wright, 2007). More importantly however, there have also been tests
that produced conclusions contrary to G&H stability hypothesis (Mitchell and Mackenzie, 2006; Hay and Forrest
2006; Burt, Simons and Simons, 2006; Na and Paternoster, 2012) suggesting fluctuations that both decrease and
increase in measure. Although the fluctuations may be minimal, this is still an exciting development for researchers
and practitioners seeking a productive way to improve preventive and treatment programs. Taking the perimeters
and contributions from aforementioned research into account, namely the malleability of self-control after the
alleged formative years, the researcher plans a two part project. Frist, a thorough examination of available literature
and secondary data surrounding the stability hypothesis will serve as the researchers masters level thesis. Next, the
researcher will employ the following study for her doctoral dissertation in order to generate primary data for analysis
and interpretation. The empirical portion of the investigation will aim to further explore the stability hypothesis by
observing a sample of incarcerated sex offenders receiving treatment. The targeted study group will undergo 18months of intensive cognitive-behavior therapy through the Texas Department of Criminal Justice within a program
called Sex Offender Treatment Program (SOTP), while the control group receives no treatment. The researcher plans
to collect four different measures from both comparison groups spanning two years. An increase in levels of selfcontrol could serve as a precursor to decreased recidivism rates, and even if the margins are modest, reduced
victimization could be the ultimate outcome. The central elements of this study -- self-control theory, stability
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
hypothesis, and sex offenses -- are all fairly new concepts within the discipline of criminology. Therefore, regardless
of whether or not the researchers hypothesis is proved, this study will ultimately add a new data set to a specific area
sorely lacking in empirical exploration. Keywords: self-control, stability hypothesis, sex offender, cognitivebehavioral treatment/therapy
Montemayor, Bertha (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Alejandra Restrepo, Elan Young
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Ward
Is Short Term Memory Effected by the Availability of Resources?
With the growing amount of everyday use of technology, studies have explored the amount of dependence we put
on our electronic resources to access information and their effects on short-term memory. The present study
hypothesizes that when given easy access to information with no prompt to remember it, participants will not
commit the information to memory. Students will be recruited from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. We will
present participants a PowerPoint presentation consisting of 20 trivia statements. Participants will be randomly
assigned to one of four testing groups. Group 1 will be prompted to remember the statements and will be told they
will later have access to their notes during a test. Group 2 will be prompted to remember and will be told they will
not have access to their notes. Group 3 will not be prompted to remember and will be told they will later have access
to their notes. Group 4 will not be prompted to remember and will be told they will not have access to their notes.
Following the PowerPoint presentation, participants will then be provided with post-tests measuring their recall and
recognition of the trivia statements. We predict that people who have the availability to classroom PowerPoint notes
are less likely to commit something to memory when they can assume that the information will be readily available in
the future and always at their disposal. Therefore, we hypothesize that participants that are told that they will not
have access to their notes and prompted to remember (Group 2) will perform the best on the recognition and recall
tasks. While those that are not prompted to remember and told they will have access to their notes (Group 3) will
have the lowest recall and recognition scores. Given the prevalence of PowerPoint in educational settings, it is
important to understand the effects of presentations and note taking on later recall of information.
Moore, Ashley (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Erika Ofodrinwa, Michael Hixon, Nchopia Nwokoma
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Alex Milam
The Social NOTwork: The Effects of Social Media Use in the Workplace on Individual
Workplace Engagement and Organizational Commitment
Social media use (the use of social networking sites, virtual online worlds, content communities, and also including:
e-mail, SMS (short message service), and MMS(multimedia message service)text) were examined in the relation to
the organizational behaviors of individual engagement and organizational commitment. Approximately 90
psychology graduate students were surveyed for the current investigation, The current researchers hypothesize that
the over use of social media while at work for personal reasons (any reason that is not specific to an individuals'
specific job task) will correlate with lower levels of individual workplace engagement and the affective component of
organizational commitment. However, the current researchers also hypothesize that if the use of social media is a
part of an individuals' specific job task, then social media use will positively contribute to workplace engagement.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Morales, Fatima (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Cristina Hernandez, Alia Altoukhi
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Ward
Correlation between Religiosity, Spirituality, and Support towards Termination of Life
Although research has been conducted on the issues of euthanasia and abortion, and how religiousness influences
these issues, there have been limitations to the research. First, these studies have mainly focused on studying levels
of support for euthanasia or abortion between religions, but not necessarily on levels of religiosity and how they
correlate with support towards these issues. Secondly, another limitation in prior research is that many times, the
spirituality construct seems to be assimilated with the religiosity construct without paying much attention to the
distinction between the two constructs. The purpose of our study is to focus on the possible relationships between
attitudes towards termination of life issues and levels of religiosity, regardless of religious identification. We will also
determine if the relationship between spirituality and termination of life issues has the same strength as the
relationship between termination of life issues and religiosity. Data will be obtained through the use of empirically
established surveys. Participants will complete the following surveys: 1) demographic questions, 2) Attitudes about
Abortion scale, 3) Attitudes toward Euthanasia scale, 4) Religious Inventory scale, and 5) Spiritual Transcendence
scale. The questions on the surveys will measure how religiosity and spirituality correlate with attitudes toward
situation-specific cases of euthanasia and abortion. We expect that participants that score high on religiosity will
have greater opposition to termination of life issues. We also expect there to be less of a relationship between
spirituality and opinions of termination of life issues. The results of this study will add to the growing body of
literature on the separate constructs of religiosity and spirituality.
Narvaez, Ana (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Michael McMullen
A Criminal's Future: Punishment or Rehabilitation
When people think about criminals, they think criminals should be sent away and be punished, but what is their
future going to look like for those people when they come out of prison? It will be harder for them to find a job since
they have a criminal record, so should the Criminal Justice System focus on helping offenders when they are release
from prison? The topic I've selected is the attitude towards the Criminal Justice System. Should the Criminal Justice
System focus more on punishment or rehabilitation when sentencing an adult offender? This study will show that
society may want the Criminal Justice System to focus on punishment rather than rehabilitation.
Nguyen, Audrey (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Stefanie Prather, Lara Abbott, Brina Johnston
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Ward
The Use of Facebook and its Relations With Jealousy and Relationship Satisfaction
Facebook has become one of the most widely used social networking websites and can become an important tool in
creating and maintaining romantic relationships. To date, there is little research available regarding the effects
Facebook has on relationship satisfaction and Facebook-related jealousy. Because of the enormous impact Facebook
has on numerous individuals today, it is important to study the psychological effects that people encounter from
using the site. In this study we will look at how Facebook usage will potentially contribute to and influence jealousy
and relationship satisfaction in romantic relationships. Participants will complete a survey packet containing the
Facebook Jealousy Scale, the Relationship Assessment Scale, the Multidimensional Jealousy Scale, and questions
regarding demographic information and Facebook usage. It is predicted that a higher usage of Facebook will result in
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increased rates of Facebook-related jealousy and decreased rates of relationship satisfaction. This research will
contribute to the understanding of how virtual relationships affect real life relationships.
Odo, Nkechinyere J. (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Analysis and Assessment of an Ergonomic computer chair
Research on the relationship between chair comfort and chair features and design is relatively sparse. This is even
more pronounced with the newer models like the 400-D hydraulic chair. The biggest question therefore is: can this
chair provide the appropriate or recommended support required to prevent or reduce office related musculoskeletal
disorders; is it necessary to provide adjustments to the design for better appreciation by its users? This study is
aimed at evaluating an ergonomic chair and also determining if method used for this study is an applicable protocol
for testing such chairs, four different tools will be employed to collect data for this study, these are; use of
questionnaires, comparison of the 400-D hydraulic chair to another ergonomic chair, measurement of muscle activity
using an electromyogram (EMG) and finally rapid upper limb assessment (RULA). Finally all data collected will be
analyzed using statistical tools.
Pacheco, Martha (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Viviana Romo, Jessica Mendoza
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Nancy Wright
Empowering English Language Learners to Succeed
Urgent academic needs of English language learners led to the implementation of Texas Administration Code,Chapter
74.4. This mandate requires teachers to implement the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS)as an integral
part of every subject in K-12 curriculum. To meet these needs and abide by this mandate, our research uncovered
effective ways to make academic content comprehensible for K-12 English language learners. This critical need can
first be met by training teachers to implement effective strategies that increase comprehension. Using a sheltered
instructional model, these strategies honor Krashen's theories of Input Hypothesis and the Affective Filter. Results of
our study also revealed that all students benefit from these strategies. Our results include recommendations for
implementing the English Language Proficiency Standards(ELPS)to increase the capacity for academic success of all
learners, especially English Language Learners.
Pagone, Alyssa (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
Early Childhood Special Educators Perceptions of Inclusive Educational Practices: A
Comparison of Paraprofessionals and Special Educators Attitudes.
The purpose of this study was to assess early childhood educators perceptions of inclusion. Although there is a
variety of literature dedicated to inclusive practice, there is limited research concerning the views of special
educators. Specifically, special education teachers and paraprofessionals. This study measured mean scores from
Becker & Roberts (2000) Inclusion Inventory to compare paraprofessionals and special education teachers
perceptions of inclusive educational practice.
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Pardue, Jennifer (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
How can technology benefit children with a communication disorder with ASD?
The use of technology has become an increasingly important component in education, particularly for students with
communication disorders. This research project sought data from four teachers regarding how technology can help
students with communication disorders. A qualitative questionnaire with open-ended questions was developed and
used for data collection. The teachers' practical suggestions along with existing research help to further discover
what methods are the most beneficial in addressing communication disorders in children with ASD from age 5 to 8.
Results from this research will demonstrate how technology can improve the communication skills of all children
along with what devices are beneficial to teachers.
Pastalaniec, Joanne (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Stuart Larson
Photo Color Spectrum
This project involved taking 384 photos of objects that were a majority of one color, choosing colors across the
spectrum. The photos were then arrange in order from clear to black and from light to dark within each color. This
project's objective was to not only enhance the authors skill in photography, but to make a piece of art.
Patil, Prachi (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Comparison of Different Types of Harnesses for Comfort Fit and Development of Symptoms
of Suspension Trauma
Fall protection is an important parameter in the construction business. Harnesses are the last line of defense in a
personal fall protection system and are very effective. Though effective in fall prevention, uses of harness also have a
concern. After fall arrest, a condition known as suspension trauma can be developed in 5 to 30 minutes, if a
suspended worker is unconscious or restrained due to an injury. This condition may lead to the death of the worker.
Though suspension trauma is a very rare cause of death in case of fall arrest, seriousness of the issue cannot be
ignored. Immediate rescue of the suspended worker is thus important. The time it takes to develop the symptoms of
suspension trauma depends on the harness type, workers body weight, height and medical condition. The successful
design of full body harness depends on quantitative data of human body type. This study will compare the full body
harnesses on the basis of fit of the harness on the basis of location of chest strap, back strap, thigh belt and subjects
physical characteristics for the comfort level. This study will also provide data on development of the symptoms of
orthostatic intolerance in a specific time, for different types of full body harnesses and hence it will help to estimate
minimum rescue time for those harnesses.
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Pearson, Timothy (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Madison Pitts
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
Developing a Perception of Law Enforcement
This study will look at an individual's perception of law enforcement, and it's correlation with an individual's
background, identity, and experiences. All information will be obtained through voluntary surveys. The information
being surveyed will include race, gender, law enforcement ties, family influences, and other information that might
contribute to one's negative or positive opinion of law enforcement.
Peters, Stephanie (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
A study of parent's view of the social struggles a child goes through in a language
immersion setting.
This is a qualitative study that will look at what parent's feel their child goes through socially in a language immersion
setting. The study will try to determine whether or not parents are aware of the common social frustrations second
language learners experience in an immersion setting
Porter, Carlton (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kathleen Garland
Income Inequality in America and the Global Economic Justice Movement
Income inequality in America is at its highest point since the Great Depression. Millions of Americans are out of
work. Technology and globalization have hollowed out the American middle class. Simultaneously American
companies sit on record levels of cash from all-time high levels of profit. 2011 will be recognized by history as the
Year of the Protester. The Occupy Wall Street movement in America and the global protests of the Arab Spring share
a broken social contract between ordinary citizens, their governments, and the wealthy elite. This research focuses
on the economic histories leading to this condition and the socioeconomic realities of the people it affects.
Porter, Carlton (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kathleen Garland
Egypt: A Case Study of Water Scarcity in Developing Nations
Population growth, pollution, inefficient natural resource management and climate change are all contributors to
water scarcity around the globe. The effects of desertification from climate change, pollution of surface and ground
waters combined with increased demand from population growth are causing rapidly declining availability of
potable water per capita. Egypt is a country that epitomizes these and other water resource issues. As such, Egypt is
an excellent case study for water scarcity in developing nations.
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Prolic, Rebecca (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Joseph Kowalow, Erika Labuzan-Lopez, Rochelle Bridges
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. W. Jared Dupree
Influences on Views of Infidelity
It is estimated that 33-70% of husbands and 26-70% of wives have engaged in an extramarital affair by the age of 40
(Pestrak, Martin, & Martin, 1985; Shackelford & Buss, 1997). The most commonly reported cause of a divorce is
sexual infidelity (Amato & Rogers, 1997) and is cited as a common area of conflict in a marriage (Platt, Nalbone,
Casanova, & Wetchler, 2008). When assessing the clients views of infidelity, the therapist must consider several
factors. This research aims to understand which variables most contribute to ones views of infidelity. While we have
previous research about these various factors predicting whether someone will actually have an affair, there is little
research about how these variables influence ones views about whether infidelity is acceptable or unacceptable.
Literature has shown that marital dissatisfaction is strongly related to people having sexual affairs (Treas & Giesen,
2000, Whisman, Gordon, & Chatav, 2007). Whisman, Gordon, & Chatav (2007) also found that religiosity was
negatively correlated with infidelity. It is proposed that committed individuals will be more likely to consider the
long-term consequences of having a marital affair and will therefore be less likely to participate in an extramarital
relationship. It is our hope that by understanding how these influences impact ones views of infidelity, we can better
understand, educate, treat, and counsel our clients. We predict higher levels of martial dissatisfaction and sexual
dissatisfaction, and higher prevalence of divorce and infidelity in an individuals FOO will result in more acceptable
views of infidelity. Our main research question is where and how attitudes of infidelity are developed and influenced.
Our goals of the project are to benefit clinicians by formulating a therapeutic conceptualization of a clients attitudes
toward infidelity by understanding the influences on them growing up. This could be religious views, prevalence of
divorce in ones FOO, and exposure to acts or knowledge of infidelity by immediate family members or close, personal
or influential relationships.
Rapson, Ashley (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Brittney Lunsford, Jessica Pena
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
Attitudes towards Women Fighting in Combat
Currently, U.S. military policy states that women are allowed to join all branches of the military. However, they
cannot serve on the front lines during combat. Although political "ideals" and legal standards state that women and
men are equal, common cultural stereotypes indicate that women are not physically or emotionally able to handle
the intensity of infantry. In order to test political beliefs of general public society, a questionnaire was developed to
further investigate the thoughts and beliefs of the common United States citizen. Questions were designed to collect
data based on sex, age, level of education, military experience, cultural background, and personal opinions on this
subject. In order to see whether or not today's society agrees with the political views that generate and enforce
military policy, the questionnaire also collected data of underlying factors that contribute to societal views of our
military women participating in modern day combat.
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Reed, Rachel (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Charlotte Haney
The Impact of Globalization on Surrogacy: Renting Wombs in India
The controversy surrounding the globalization of surrogacy is rooted in the idea that commercializing pregnancy
promotes the commodification of children and dehumanizes a woman as her identity is not separated from her
womb. This situation leaves power in the hands of the commissioning couples, whose silence and apathy towards the
life of their surrogate is partially responsible for the lack of proper treatment for these women. With my
presentation at the conference, I aim to expose how reproductive tourism connects people from all over the world,
and those involved are unequal in terms of power and resources. These inequalities cannot be ignored; in fact, they
should generate greater responsibility from those with more power, in this situation--the commissioning couples.
When people from developed countries participate in reproductive tourism they are exhibiting social power in their
ability to hire others to carry out their reproductive labor. Ignorance to the moral, social, and economic relationships
that arise by engaging in reproductive tourism is not an excuse or legitimate defense.
Reichwein, Jessica (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dorothea Lerman, Sarah Lechago
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Dorothea Lerman
Promoting Generalization of Teacher Skills: Evaluation of a Training Program to Decrease
Problem Behavior in the Classroom
There is ample evidence that teachers can accurately implement behavioral interventions in the classroom (e.g.,
preference assessments or direct instruction), but little research has examined the effectiveness of training teachers
to use general strategies to manage problem behavior. In some cases, problem behavior may not be severe or
frequent enough to warrant a functional assessment, or institutions may lack the proper resources to conduct such
an assessment. When function has not been identified, teacher responses to problem behavior could inadvertently
reinforce the behavior. In the current study, 2 teachers and 3 paraprofessionals were trained to use general
classroom management strategies (e.g., follow through with tasks and ignore dissruptions while instructing). We
evaluated teacher integrity to the strategies as well as examined the generalization of the new teacher skills across 9
students with different funcitons of problem behavior.
Rodrigue, Adrian (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dorothea Lerman, Jennifer Yoon-Fritz
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Dorothea Lerman
Evaluating the Effects of Positive and Negative Reinforcement with Escape-Maintained
Problem Behavior during Haircuts
A problematic daily living activity that can evoke escape-maintained problem behavior for some children with
developmental disabilities is routine haircuts. To date, there is one study that investigated a treatment for
compliance with haircutting (Shumacher & Rapp, 2011). The present study extended the procedures from Shumacher
and Rapp (2011) by implementing an NCR procedure to assess the effects of positive and negative reinforcement in
the absence of escape extinction with individuals with escape-maintained problem behavior related to haircuts.
Current data of a 4-year-old participant with autism indicated that problem behavior occurred at a lower level during
the NCR with positive reinforcement condition when compared to the NCR with negative reinforcement condition.
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Rote, Karilyn (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Jazmine Dixon, Nadja Werries, Chelsea Crenshaw, Nga Dang,
Maricela Olivarez
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Fritz
Effects of a Walking Program utilizing Pedometers on Health Predictors and Quality of Life
at a Residential Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Obesity is a large problem in the general population, but affects a greater percentage people with intellectual and
developmental disabilities. Walking is a non-strenuous activity that can improve health outcomes including weight
across all populations. A multiple baseline across participants design was utilized with four adult participants with
previous diagnoses of mental retardation residing at a residential facility. The participants all had a reported need for
weight loss and exercise (based on an evaluation by a registered dietician). They were each provided with a
pedometer for their use. Training was given to participants on pedometer usage, step goals, and utilizing the token
store. Participants received tokens a minimum of three times per week during treatment dependent upon meeting
their walking goals. Daily walking goals were set based on the previous daily walking averages. Measures were taken
regularly on Body Mass Index, waist to hip ratio, and quality of life as predictors of health outcomes and compared
across treatment.
Saberre, Krystal (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Caitlin Weekley, Monteil Cowans
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Relationship between job satisfaction and stress for middle managers in the workplace
Middle managers are the core of any organization yet there is not very much research on them as a population. Being
such a large portion of any organization and because middle managers receive input from two different levels (their
subordinates and their supervisors), it is important to understand how stress impacts middle managers level of job
satisfaction. Also, it is crucial to find out the factors that are considered stressful for managers to be able to create a
working environment cohesive to their needs. It is therefore important to focus on middle managers stress and job
satisfaction levels to not only better the individuals, but the organization. Although there has been significant
research conducted on the many different factors of job satisfaction, there has been very little research done looking
specifically at the relationship of job satisfaction and work-related stress in middle managers. The goal of this study is
to look at the impact work-related stress has on the job satisfaction of middle managers. Survey data will be collected
from graduate students at the University of Houston-Clear Lake by using the Job Descriptive Index (JDI) and the Stress
in General Scale (SIG), both developed by the JDI Research Group. In addition, participants will be fill out
demographic information (i.e. current position, employment status, etc.). We hypothesized that middle managers
will have a high level of work-related stress which will lead to low job satisfaction.
Shaanan, Noga (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Theresa Bailey, Sarah Davis-Tohlen, Jessica Wooden
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Ward
Inattentional Blindness and Bullying
Previous studies show that stimuli that suggest a need for immediate action, such as items that move suddenly or
appear to move towards the observer, are predicted to capture attention. However, it has also been shown that
when people are engaged in ordinary tasks, they fail to notice rare and odd occurrences. Research about bullying has
shown that there is a discrepancy between the number of bullying incidents that occur and adult intervention. This
study will attempt to identify inattentional blindness as a potential cause for failure to notice an aggressive stimulus.
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This may lead to a better understanding of the reasons for the lack of response by adults when in the proximity of a
bullying event. Participants will be recruited from students at the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Participants will
be randomly assigned to one of two groups. All participants will be asked to watch a video that shows a classroom of
children raising their hands. Participants will be instructed to keep track of how many hands are raised. Half of the
participants will be exposed to a video that contains an act of aggression (one child pushes another), while the other
half will be exposed to a video with a non-aggressive event (child putting on a mask). Afterward, the participants will
be presented with questions to determine whether the aggressive/non-aggressive event was noticed. It is predicted
that both events will not be noticed due to performing a distractor task. Understanding how inattentional blindness
may affect recognition of bullying events in a classroom might assist researchers who are developing intervention
programs for use in schools.
Shroyer, Anne (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Jennifer Fritz, Denise Salazar
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Fritz
Caregiver Preference for Reinforcement-Based Behavioral Interventions
Studies on the social validity of behavioral interventions often employ indirect measures (verbal report) of caregiver
preference or focus primarily on the preference of the individuals receiving treatment. In the current study, caregiver
preference for reinforcement-based behavioral interventions for problem behavior was determined via a concurrentchains arrangement. Parents were neurotypical, and all children were diagnosed with developmental disabilities and
engaged in problem behavior maintained by access to positive reinforcement. Parents first were trained on
noncontingent reinforcement (NCR), differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA), and differential
reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) with the experimenter. Parents then practiced each intervention with their
children. Finally, parents selected and implemented one of the interventions or the control (during which they could
provide the consequences of their choosing) throughout 5-min sessions. One parent preferred DRA, and the other
parent selected the three treatments equally. Interobserver agreement for treatment choice was 100% for both
participants. This study outlines a methodology for identifying interventions that are both preferred and
implemented with high levels of integrity.
Smith, Bridget (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Erica Reynolds
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Ward
An Investigation of Gender Bias in Job Advertisements for Management Positions
As women attain leadership roles in political and corporate arenas traditionally held by men the social perception of
leadership is in need of change. Unfortunately, more focus is placed on the gendered image for job roles than the
actual job skills. The Social Role Theory contributes to gendered biases in the workplace by making it difficult for
women to be seen or promoted to leadership positions. The concept of role congruity prohibits society from viewing
women as leaders in an organization. Previous research exists in the area of gender bias in leadership roles,however
there has been limited research as to how job wording (communal or agentic)affects female applicants appeal and/or
belongingness in leadership positions. Communal wording relates to words that are considered feminine in nature
(e.g. interpersonal, responsible) and agentic words are considered masculine in nature (e.g. aggressive, strong). The
purpose of this research is to investigate whether the lack of female applicant's interest in upper management
positions are due to gender bias wording in job advertisements. Participants consisting of females in a psychology
graduate program will be given four job advertisements to read and each advertisement will have key words
manipulated so that they contain either communal or agentic wording. Actual job titles will not be provided.
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Participants will be randomly assigned so that they receive four different job advertisements, two of which will
contain masculine wording and two of which contain feminine wording. Each participant will be asked to answer
questions on a five point scale about the job (e.g. "I would apply to this job" and "This job is unappealing"). Each
participant will then rank each job advertisement from "most appealing to least appealing". Additionally, participants
will be given questions adapted from Walton and Cohen's (2007) Belonginess Scale (e.g. "My vales align with the
values of this company" and "I would fit well in this company"). It is expected that job advertisements that use
masculine phrases will be less appealing to potential women applicants. These subtle choices in word selection when
used in job advertisements could be very important to hiring managers attempting to increase gender diversity in the
workplace.
Soto, Rosemary (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dorothea Lerman
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Dorothea Lerman
Evaluation of Efficacy and Assessment of Preference for Teaching Applications on an iPad®
This study examined the effectiveness of an iPad application versus one-on-one training with three individuals
diagnosed with Autism. Two of the participants were taught receptive word identification and the other was taught
receptive shape identification. The iPad application and 1-1 both used discrete trial training. One-on-one instruction
was more effective for two of the participants. The iPad was more effective than 1-1 with one of the participants. For
two of the participants the iPad was preferred teaching modality.
Spears, Miranda (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
Individualism vs. Apple
I find it very interesting that Americans value individualism, yet continue to purchase and use Apple products such as
Mac computers, iPods, and iPhones. My goal in this project is to figure out why so many of us use Apple products,
which take away our individualism to a large extent. I will do this with the use of surveys and interviews.
Spoorthi, Fnu (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Chandni Sejpal, Nidia Owen, Aya Fadel, Shawn Sturm, Hiran,
Thyagarajan, Kirti Tiwari
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mohammed Bazlur Rashid
Regulation of Nitric Oxide Synthesis and Its Role In Male Infertility
Nitric Oxide (NO) is a signalling molecule having regulatory effect in various biological processes. The role of NO in
inflammation based-infertility in male has been reported. A variety of experimental approaches have involved a huge
number of proteins in mediating the interaction between a spermatozoon and its environment. Previous research on
NO have suggested that it plays a vital role in the functioning of the male reproductive system including sperm
functioning as it releases a number of compounds such as Sodium Nitroprusside which determines the motility and
viability of the sperms. It is established that inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) is responsible for the synthesis of
NO, which is implicated to be responsible for mediating inflammation based infertility. We have proposed to study
that the iNOS is regulated by interacting with other protein(s) that may play a role in NO synthesis. Therefore, to
identify such protein-protein interactions we are implementing a Yeast Two-Hybrid Technique (Y2H). Currently we
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have several candidate proteins by screening human testis cDNA library that showed positive interactions as
intercepted by reporter gene expression during Y2H assay. We have reconfirmed our data by co-transforming the
isolated candidate cDNA and bait- plasmids into the yeast cells. The sequence of the cDNAs has also been
determined. Further confirmation is to be done by mammalian Co-immuno-precipitation assay.
Stanley, Christopher (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Frank Vu, Jason Paratore
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John "Mike" McMullen
Does society feel safer with or without firearms?
The regulation of firearms has long been a controversial yet important topic in this country. When the founding
fathers wrote the bill of rights they included the second amendment which establishes the rights of citizens to keep
and bear firearms. The wording, although vague, has been in used in support of both sides of the position. Anti-gun
activists claim that allowing ordinary citizens to possess and carry firearms increases the crime rate and thus makes
people feel unsafe. Pro-gun activists argue that the more legally accessible guns are to the ordinary citizen the safer
they and the rest of society feels because guns in the hands of responsible licensed citizens deter crime. Our
hypothesis is that society as a whole feels safer when they have access to firearms to use for personal defense. We
will test this theory by creating a survey which will gauge the opinions thoughts and ideas of college students in our
statistics class towards the use of firearms for personal defense.
Steinberg, Daniel (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Chad Wetterneck, John Hart, Angela Smith
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Chad Wetterneck
Experiential Avoidance in Obsessive-Compulsive Symptom Dimensions
Experiential Avoidance (EA) is hypothesized to be related to Obsessive-Compulsive (OC) symptoms (Twohig et al.
2010). A few studies performed to date have been unable to find a link and one study has suggested that it may be
the measure of EA itself may have obscured accurate findings (Manos et al., 2010). A revised measure of EA and the
availability of a new measure which more accurately captures OC symptom dimensions will be employed in this
study. 90 non-referred individuals meeting criteria for OCD completed measures to evaluate levels of EA and OC
symptom dimension severity in an online survey. The Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (AAQ-II; a revision of the
AAQ with improved psychometric properties) and the Dimensional Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (DOCS were used in
the survey. Relations were found between EA and OC symptom severity as well as several OC symptom dimensions.
Positive correlations were found between EA and the dimensions of unacceptable thoughts and harming as
measured by the DOCS. These results further our understanding of the relation between EA and OC symptom
dimension severity and illustrate that EA may be an important construct for certain OC symptom dimensions. Future
directions and study limitations will be discussed.
Sullivan, Elizabeth (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
General Education Teachers' Attitudes about Inclusion
The purpose of this research is to analyze teachers' perceptions of educationa dn engaging students with disabilities
in inclusive classrooms. As, a special education teacher, I have encountered numerous obstacles in successfully
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including students with special needs in the general education classroom. Though research supporting inclusion is
frequently reported in the professional literature, daily realities of challenges associated with teacher perceptions are
not consistent the the research. This study is an attempt to explore teachers' perceptions of education and engaging
students with disabilities at one local school. A similar study was conducted involving pre-service teachers in
Sinapore, "Pre-Service Teachers' Views about Inclusion in Singapore" (Nonis and Jernice, 2011). This study examines
the attitudes and perceptions towards inclusion of students with disabilities held by general education teachers. In
this study, general education teachers will be asked about their attitudes towards including children with special
needs in their classroom. This mix method study will utilize a survey and interviews for obtaining data. Simple
descriptive statistics will be used to compare mean responses from data gained on the survey results. Information
obtained through interviews will be coded and compared in order to identify any possible common themes in
participant responses. Remarks will be synthesized and presented in narrative form. A survey method will be used to
elicit information on teachers' views towards (a) including students with special needs, (b) the quality or adequacy of
their training and (c) the adequacy of resources to educate these students in their classroom. The teachers in this
study are actively teaching in general education classrooms in a public elementary school. There will be
approximately 35 participants in the study. This convenience sample will allow the researcher to analyze teacher
perceptions in order to make viable recommendations for improving invlusive practices. Permission to access, explain
the purpose of the research and seek volunteers has been approved by the school principal, Kelly Mooney. All
information will be kept confidential. Particpants will be informed that involvement is completely voluntary and
there are no risk associated with either completing or not completing the surveys and/or interviews. Completed and
submitted surveys will be consistent of informed consent.
Tamayo, Judit (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Edrina Kallashi, Heather Anders
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Alex Milam
Personality and gender differences among college students, in identifying cyber-sexual
harassment through social networks
Cyber-sexual harassment has limited literature and as social networks have recently become popular, sexual
harassment has now expanded onto the internet. This phenomenon is experienced by both men and women, but
many tend to not label those experiences as sexual harassment (Hulin, Fitzgerald, and DeNardo, 1999). Such
behavior may be considered taboo, make individuals feel ashamed, or it may even be disregarded as immature foul
play. Thus, we will focus on the personality differences of people who identify with cyber sexual harassment on
social networks. Research shows besides gender, personality traits play a great role in determining differences
between individuals and how they respond to outside stimuli. Menard, Pincus, and Shoss (2005) state that
personality traits reflect individual differences in thinking, feeling, perception, and behavior that are considered
relatively stable over time. The intent of this study is to find the relation between personality and identifying with
cyber-sexual harassment through social networks. Based on previous research findings in regard to sexual
harassment, we predict females will be more likely than males to identify as being cyber-sexual harassed through
social networks. With the limited amount of research on specific social networks and the relation to cyber-sexual
harassment we predict Facebook and Twitter to be the more popular tools of sexually harassed individuals. And
lastly, we predict those individuals high in Neuroticism, Conscientiousness, and Openness to experience will also
identify the most with being cyber-sexually harassed through the social networks based on Menard, Shoss, & Pincus'
research (2010).
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Tipton, Tonya (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Rachel Reed, Linda Sulpacio, Nora Ventura
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Charlotte Haney
Comic Book Feminists: Understanding Feminist Theory Through Narrative Artwork
This is a joint graduate project that examines various feminist theorists and their key writings through narrative
artwork designed by the students. The goal of the project is to encourage the audience to engage feminist theory
through the use of non-traditional pedagogy. Each graduate student has chosen a specific feminist theorist-Nancy
Hardstock, Chandra Mohanty, bell hooks, Gloria Anzaldua, and Judith Butler-to represent in their self-designed
feminist comic book. Each comic book will narrate a specific feminist theorist's biographical details and theoretical
perspective through the collage of visual imagery and words. The point of examining feminist theory through
narrative artwork is to make complex intellectual analysis more accessible to a general audience. Feminist theory
looks at the cultural construction of gender-i.e., how gender is assigned social, economic, and political significanceand how this cultural construction interacts with power in society. Tonya Tipton's comic book focuses on Nancy
Hardstock and her theoretical understanding of how a feminist standpoint can be used to examine ideologies and
institutions based on patriarchy. Nora Ventura looks at how Chandra Mohanty, a postcolonialist theorist, critiqued
Western feminism for promoting a universal feminist project that does not acknowledge the differences between
women living in the first and third worlds. Brittany Sweeny explores the diverse writings of bell hooks who theorizes
about how the interconnection of multiple systems of oppression, based on race, class and gender, have perpetuated
a system of dominance based on class in the US and the world. Linda Sulpacio examines Gloria Anzaldua's Chicana
feminist theorizing about the "new mestiza" that beaks out of the traditional Western binary of "either-or" to create
new identities for men and women in the borderlands. Lastly, Rachel Reed shows how Judith Butler questions the
idea that gendered behaviors are natural and theorizes the ways that a persons learned performance of gendered
behavior is just that--a performance, constructed by our cultures idea of normative heterosexuality. She aims to
comprehensibly express Judith Butlers theories about to what extent our behaviors are determined for us by the
system of signs and conventions that regulate our perception of reality.
Tolentino, Rachel (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Lindsey Knott, Dave Derr, Myrene Dickinson
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Alex Milam
From Personal to Therapeutic: Therapist Factors of Intimacy and Disclosure
Relationship characteristics, such as intimacy and self-disclosure, are important factors that aid in building trust,
demonstrating empathy, and creating a sense of mutual understanding and acceptance. In a therapeutic relationship,
self-disclosure is most commonly elicited by the client, where the therapist acts as a facilitator for intimacy. Some
therapeutic modalities, like Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP), emphasize the use of therapist self-disclosure.
At this present time, there is limited research that examines these therapist characteristics and their correlation with
personal life characteristics. Because the therapeutic relationship is crucial for the progress of the client, it is
necessary to study what characteristics of the therapist may contribute to their style and interpersonal actions within
the therapy setting. In this study, we examine therapist comfort with intimacy in their personal life, as well as their
use of self-disclosure and FAP consistent techniques within the therapeutic relationship. Participants were given a
questionnaire containing the Functional Analytic Psychotherapy Intimacy scale, Functional Idiographic Assessment
Template, and other questions regarding demographic information. It is predicted that therapist professed comfort
with intimacy in their personal life will correlate with their use of FAP consistent techniques within the therapeutic
setting. This study will contribute to the understanding of therapist characteristics within the therapeutic
relationship.
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Tolleson, Heather (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Kassie Moronko
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. S. Camille Peres
Correlations of system usability rating and enjoyability of a statistics simulation
Research on using simulations in classrooms has shown that when used in a way that creates active learners,
simulations are an effective tool. When students actively participated in a learning activity they performed better and
reported enjoying their class more (Lane & Peres, 2006). Our research seeks to understand the relationship between
system usability as rated by the student and that students' perception of the effectiveness, value, and enjoyability of
a statistics simulation. It is our belief that students who rate a simulation as more usable will find the simulation
more effective, valuable, and enjoyable than students who rated the simulation low in usability.
Tran, Kim (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Sonia Singh, April Yang, Ashley Horan, Daniel Martinez-Torres
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Alex Milam
The Relation Between Cluster B Symptoms and Internet Pornography Usage
The purpose of this study is to examine the relation between Cluster B personality disorder traits and Internet
pornography (IP) usage. Cluster B includes Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), Antisocial Personality Disorder
(ASPD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD). The underlying dimension
that consistently characterizes Cluster B personality traits is impulsivity (Lavan & Johnson, 2002). Because research
has suggested that impulsivity is related to problematic IP viewing (Twohig, Crosby, & Cox , 2009), we hypothesize
those individuals who display higher amounts of Cluster B personality traits will also report higher levels of IP usage.
The literature suggests that individuals with Cluster B personality disorder symptoms are more likely to engage in
high-risk sexual behaviors. Lavan and Johnson (2002) examined the association between Axis I and II psychiatric
symptoms and their association to high-risk sexual behaviors. In this study, Cluster B personality traits will be
measured using the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire -- 4+. Additionally, the Clear Lake Internet Pornography
Scale (CLIPS) will be used to measure IP usage. The results are expected to coincide with our hypothesis that
individuals who score higher on Cluster B personality types will also view IP more frequently than those who score
low on Cluster B personality types. Lavan, H., & Johnson, J. G. (2002). The association between Axis I and Axis II
psychiatric symptoms and high-risk sexual behavior during adolescence. Journal of Personality Disorders, 16(1), 7394. Twohig, M. P., Crosby, J. M., Cox, J. M. (2009). Viewing internet pornography: For whom is it problematic, how,
and why? Sexual Addiction & Compulsivity, 16, 253-266.
Wiggins, Lauren (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elizabeth Beavers
Examining the effects of iLS on the Early Start Denver Model: A case study of early
intervention on a toddler with ASD
Intervention was implemented with a toddler identified with autistic spectrum disorder. The intervention approach,
integrated listening system (iLS), in conjunction with the Early Start Denver model, consisted of a 6-week, 3-hr-perweek multi-sensory program for improving brain function. Results of this case study will demonstrate the subject
answering yes/no questions, understanding simple spatial concepts, labeling and using verbs, following 2-step
related commands, and completing sentences. He will be able to transition between activities with minimal cues
and no longer become frustrated and nervous when something new is introduced. Findings are discussed in relation
to providing the right combination of therapy that may equip therapist with the necessary intervention skills to
engage, communicate with, and teach their very young children with or at risk for autism.
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Wooldridge, Colin (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Ekene Onochie, Hanieh Nasizadeh, James Leyton
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Alex Milam
An examination of the relationship between birth order and goal orientation.
There is a growing body of evidence that supports the link between personality and goal orientation. Similarly,
research has demonstrated a relationship between birth order and personality. However, there is little research
linking birth order and goal orientation. The purpose of this study is to examine whether there is a relationship
between birth order and goal orientation and if it is moderated by personality. One-hundred graduate students from
the University of Houston-Clear Lake will be used to assess the relationships between these constructs.
Young, Jacquelyn (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kathleen Garland
Shipyard's Effects on Local Communities Environmental Quality
Multiple shipyards within a five mile radius are major pollutors to three Harris County communities and the residents
are left with the harmful results due to the air and water pollution. Degassing, sand blasting, paint blasting and
welding are a few of the routine activities taking place at the shipyards. The paint and metal dust as well as toxic
chemical compounds interact with the air and water that the local communities are exposed to. Aside from the air
contamination, local residents are allowed to pump groundwater exposing them daily to toxic compounds they are
unaware of. I discovered this problem in a previous case study and felt there is a large need to further pursue the
issue and raise awareness. My mother and I went door to door in Highlands and found a high rate of cancer and
other illnesses that are directly linked to substances the shipyards expose them to. Out of 15 houses 10 of the
families had at least one member with cancer or chronic health issues. From our findings, and our own personal
experiences with illnesses and pet illnesses, I was able to conclude that there is an enormous need in Highlands and
the surrounding communities for medical research and environmental quality control. Given what the shipyards
expose the communities to, the residents are left at risk for serious health repercussions.
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Roundtable Abstracts
Browne, Alana (Lee College); Christina Torres, Candi Rodriguez
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. John Britt
Waking from the Dream; Anti-Immigration Sentiment and the Dream Act
Due to the current rising anti-undocumented immigration sentiment in the United States, undocumented
immigrants are increasingly subjected to countless raids, interrogations and deportations. Some have lived in the
U.S. since infancy, contributing to its economy. Up until recently, an undocumented immigrant in the U.S. could
attain employment, medical treatment, an education, and a residence without challenge - all that is necessary for a
good quality of life, all that most could not obtain in their home country. In order to in act immigration reform that
is humane, the stories of undocumented immigrants must be heard, stories that have no voice because
undocumented immigrants must remain unseen. Lawmakers cannot construct good policy without understanding
the complexity of the plight of undocumented immigrants or, in the case of Mexico, the history of the U.S. territorial
relationship with Mexico. In this roundtable discussion, legal immigrants--as well as undocumented student via
Skype - will discuss the Dream Act, which affects educators and students alike, as well as the banning of ethnic
studies in Arizona. Immigrants will explore these issues from both a personal, as well an academic perspective.
Garrison, Joshua Glen (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Charles Thomas Allen, Abraham John Bragg, Armando
Flores, John Devon Gibson, Timothy Joe Grupa, Jacob Rae Hayes, Jason Aaron Hill, Patrick L. Hollins, David Michael
Mahnke, Monty Daniel May, Rodrigo Samuel Medrano, Courtney S. Reed, Joel Lee Violet, Sanford Earl Russell
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian
Non-Traditional Reflections on the Non-Western: A Humanities Roundtable from our
Students working on a Bachelors Degree from Prison
Students share their thoughts on the place of the non-western in the humanities curriculum. They speak on its core
functions, definitions, theoretical interventions, and epic traditions. Having read texts as varied as the epic of Indian
antiquity, The Ramayana, scriptural traditions from around the world including the Quran, mystical works from Rumi
to Kabir, and modern novels, they discuss the meaning, significance and context of their study in the humanities. As
incarcerated students, it becomes doubly significant to hear their thoughtful rejoinders on themes of duty, morality,
death, and immortality, amidst other themes. In integrating the non-western into their study of humanities, they
arrive at a new complex of the self in relation to the other, thereby reanimating the larger project of humanities with
visible embodiment and intellectual vigor.
Johnson, Tina (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Frances Euceda, Emily Ammons, Jessie Henderson
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christine Kovic
Immigration, Diversity, and Ethnography in Houston
The greater Houston area is one of the most ethnically diverse metropolitan areas in the country. The fourth largest
city in the United States, Houston is one of the few cities in the U.S. without an ethnic or racial majority and an
important center for international business and trade. Over twenty percent of the population of Houston is foreign
born. In the year 2005, Houston became one of twenty cities in the world (nine of them located in North America)
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with over one million foreign born residents. The city includes large groups of migrants from diverse regions including
Latin America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. In this roundtable discussion undergraduate Anthropology majors
will discuss their ethnographic research in the greater Houston area conducted in this spring semester. Through
observation and interviews, the students have begun to explore Houstons immigrant communities. Topic which will
be discussed include the role of religion in immigrant networks, possibilities of inter-faith dialogue, immigrant
doctors and patients, and the role of life history in understanding what Studs Terkel calls the non-celebrated
celebrities, the people who have never been asked about their lives before.
Riney, Kendra (University of Houston-Clear Lake), Alan Mansfield, Kristin Skipper
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christine Kovic
Texas Advocates Supporting Services for Equal Love-TASSEL
The Texas Advocates Supporting Services for Equal Love is a hypothetical human rights organization. The mission of
this organization is to provide discreet counseling in a safe and supportive environment to the lesbian, gay, bisexual,
and transgender community (LGBT), to lobby for same-sex marriage in the state of Texas, and to encompass,
celebrate, and serve as a strong advocate the LGBT culture collectively, incorporate the varying lifestyles, and the
ability to live them freely.
Symposium Abstracts
Anderson, Rose (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Ashley Benning
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Carbon Capture and Storage
Our project is on carbon capture and sequestration/storage (known in environmental parlance as CCS). This is an
evolving science/service to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it away forever. The presentation
and paper will discuss the science involved in: carbon capture - how to get CO2 out of the atmosphere or prevent it
entering the atmosphere; sequestration/storage -- how to isolate CO2 from the atmosphere and keep it from
contributing to the problem of global climate change. Additionally, we will explore other conditions and aspects
relating to CCS: transportation, reuse of CO2, safety of storage and cost. Finally, we will offer opinions on whether it
works, what the problems/controversies are, and if they can be solved.
Ash, Megan (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Shalyn Stickler, Fransisco Lopez, Jacob Dominy
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
The Understanding of Pollution Prevention
Throughout this project we will discuss the most common causes of pollution, how it can impact our environment,
and everyday well being. For example, where pollution comes from, what causes it, and the effects pollution has on
the environment as a whole. After informing the reader with all the necesary information in order to help them fully
understand the origin of pollution, we will explain a variety of ways to help minimize and control pollution.
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Babb, Wendy (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Nora Haenggi, Heather Fitzpatrick, Michael Starr
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian
Gender, Media and Mysticism in the Homogenocene
It is through the study of humanities that we discover not only the obstacles that people face, but also the events
that spur them forward. Taking a step towards discovering what makes us uniquely human, be it who we are or by
what we live or have learned, is taking a leap towards understanding. Forever growing within ourselves, we are
shaped by influences, both our own and others that allow us to convey to the world our own ideas and beliefs from
those we have culled from our influences. Charles Mann coined the word Homogenocene in his texts to explain and
encompass the uniformity of today's global condition. Today, we take into account subjects of gender, the media and
mysticism to describe a small part of how Homogenocene creates and influences us all.
Barrera, Brenda (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Andrea Gonzales, Esmeralda Romero
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Audit of a Construction Site
Our project site is going to be at The Hanover Company, located in Houston, Texas, in Rice Village. The Hanover
Company specializes in the development of high quality multi-family residential properties nationwide. In our audit
when visiting the construction site of the Hanover Company not only are we going to look for any violations towards
standards of OSHA but any other hazards that we feel can have a negative detrimental effect. The audit will consist of
a safety detailed check list. We will fill the check list as appropriate with remarks that pertain to the applicable
construction site concerns if any. Some examples of what we will be observing and reviewing on our check list during
this audit will be: Scaffolding Safety, Falling Safety, Ladder Safety, Forklift Safety, PPE Safety-Body Protection,
Electrical Safety, Fire Safety, Walkways, Sanitation, Guards and other Safety Issues. This Audit will be conducted on
Wednesday February 29, 2012. The audit was pre-arranged as a free complementary assessment audit for the
Hanover Company. A report will follow the audit.
Beckermann, Christopher (University of Houston-Clear Lake); June Rogillio, Matthew McCann, Bill Young
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
OSHA; A First Hand Look at How to Make Construction Safer
The construction field can be considered to be one of the more deadly places to be in todays work environment,
which leads to its disproportionate amount of OSHA investigations compared to other larger industries. Our focus in
this group project will be to simulate what an actual OSHA inspection would accomplish by acting as OSHA
compliance officers investigating a mid-rise living work site as provided to us by an anonymous company. Our main
focuss as OSHA compliance officers will be to identify OSHA standards that are being violated, to quantify what the
penalties would be, and recommend ways in which the company being investigated can fix these violations. Our
recommendations will be made with one goal, to go above and beyond what OSHA requires. We hope that through
this project we will learn to properly learn what it means to be an OSHA compliance officer, and the importance of
finding ways to improve a constantly evolving field, the field of construction.
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Bell, William (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dustin Triplett, Kristen Speice, Rebecca Hall
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
The Keystone Pipeline - - Does It Benefit America?
The proposed 1,161 mile, $13 billion TransCanada Limited Keystone Oil Pipeline Project, which would run south from
Hardisty, Canada down through the breadbasket farmlands of the United States, with market hubs in the Midwest
at Steele City, Nebraska; Cushing, Oklahoma; Wood River and Potoka, Illinois; and eventually would extend to
refineries in Houston and Port Arthur, Texas has continuously been a national news topic since it was first proposed.
This shale-oil pipeline has created a firestorm of political controversy here in the United States. Issues have arisen
over the proposed pipeline's safety, economic benefits for the United States, the environmental and ecological
impacts (particularly on protecting the Ogallala Aquifer in Nebraska), and the oil pipeline's ability to provide the
United States with increased energy security. The Keystone Pipeline's potential local economic and environmental
impacts prompted the selection of this topic. This project thesis will encompass three focus areas. The first will
assess the benefits and disadvantages of the Keystone Pipeline, focusing on its safety, security, environmental and
ecological impacts. The second focus area will compare the proposed Keystone Oil Pipeline Project to the existing
TransAlaska Pipeline System by examining its historical impacts. The third focus area will examine the national and
regional pro's and con's of the pipeline's current proposal to determine if there are alternatives to the Keystone
Pipeline Project. Finally, an assessment of the pipeline's impact on current U.S. energy policy will be made to
provide an answer to the thesis question, "The Keystone Pipeline - - Does It Benefit America?"
Bognar, Tabatha (University of houston- Clear Lake); Dustin Mortazavi, Esmeralda Romero
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Global Warming: And It's Impending Implications
The rising temperatures here on earth have lead to many adverse effects for the population. The combination of the
release of excess greenhouse gases, burning coal, oil, gas, and destroying forests overloads the atmosphere with
excess carbon dioxide, adding to heat-trapping gases that already are present in the atmosphere. The term global
warming is one that is arbitrarily given to the overall climate change that our earth seems to be going through. It
refers to the man made changes in natural greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), water vapor, methane
(CH4), nitrous oxides (NOx), ozone (O3), and haloalkanes such as, but not limited to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
Some of these come from primarily natural sources but others come from the byproducts of mostly man made
processes. These gases tend to lock in UV rays from the sun close to the earths surface without letting them naturally
radiate back out. They have the same effects as the windowpanes that one would find on a greenhouse, hence their
name. Deforestation only adds to the problem, as many of the worlds dense forests and jungles are know to convert
CO2 to oxygen. Photosynthetic plankton in the ocean accomplishes the same fete and are also declining in numbers
due to water pollution. This trapping of UV rays from excessive greenhouse gases causes many problems associated
with increased temperature. Melting of ice caps, warming of large bodies of water, and dry and arid conditions for
crop growing are just to name a few. By finding better alternatives to burning fossil fuel, cutting down on
deforestation practices, and limiting or altering the adverse compounds associated with common greenhouse gases,
we can work towards a sustainable way of life and a healthier planet that will keep us safe for years to come.
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Buccella, William (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Hydraulic Fracturing
I recently started working for a Canadian based company that manufactures and sells hydraulic fracturing trucks to
the oil and gas industry. Prior to my employment, I was not aware of this type of equipment, it's use, manufacture or
the controversy surrounding it. Recent reports in the news have implemented those companies involved with using
this type of equipment and utilizing these methods as potential sources of groundwater contamination. This comes
as a result of the methods of adding pressurized water, sand and "chemicals" into the ground in order to facilitate
the removal of oil and gas from wells. The EPA has gone so far as to issue a report that states that "hydraulic
fracturing is causing groundwater contamination." I am proposing a project that will look at this controversy as well
as the history behind it. I will research the background including the method's developers, origins, popularity,
benefits, potential consequences and the emerging controversy including the EPA's recent statements. I will use a
variety of resources including published reports, online stories as well as information from the literature provided by
the companies that use this method for fossil fuel extraction.
Bujnoch, Tricia (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Robert Chambliss, Jon de los Santos, Heather Schutmaat
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian
Knowing the Self and the Other: A Narrative of Origins
Think for a moment about who you are, where you live and the various people, places, and things that are involved in
your everyday life. What comes to mind? Do you wonder how it is that baseball came to be "America's favorite
pastime," or perhaps you think about how or why violence always seems to have a recurring role in human life?
Maybe you're more curious about your family history, culture, or even why you believe what you believe? Is there
something that connects all of these questions? What or who set the course toward globalization and the world as it
is known today? The papers herein will address the origins of culture and violence as well as certain aspects of
American history and how this relates to what is known as the "Western" world. Students will wrestle with questions
of how contemporary culture, conflict, and development are all interconnected.
Burdge, Amber (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Benzene and Benzene Exposure
Cannariato, Bernard (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Anne Henry
Birthday Balloon
The Project is a 3-D Animation based on a poem I wrote. The animation was a study in light on shapes in the 3-D
application of Maya. It was rendered in mental ray. I wanted to work with light and space without drowning the
effects in color. Setting the poem in a cityscape, I used modern muted hues to juxtapose with the red balloon and
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allow the balloon to hold the attention of the eye while presenting a detailed surrounding. Using mental ray to
render the scenes allowed for me to exploit the softness and realism that the mental ray rendering engine provides.
The scene follows the balloon as it ascends to the heavens having broken its string. I emphasize reflections in
showing the balloon floating skyward using camera angles to exploit the reflections in the windows of the building
and in the balloon. I end the short with a shot that is intended to give the project scope, having used more intimate
shots to handle the reflections.
Capetillo, Alisa(University of Houston-Clear Lake); Parvathi Nair, Alyson Sheperd, Mariyam Shah, Kevin Young
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Cindy Howard
Ecological Issues of Neotropical Rainforests
The Amazon River basin is over 4000 miles long and collects water from more than 200 tributaries as it winds through
much of South America. The main stem of the river is the second longest in the world and carries more of the world's
fresh water to the ocean than any other river. The Amazon River is located in the New World tropics which contain a
wide range of habitats, unique wildlife, and, many indigenous peoples whom live within this watershed. This
collection of presentations will introduce you to issues pertaining to the unique wildlife and peoples of this region.
We will present and discuss the issues of the recent threats towards the Yanomami people and their land, as well as
possible solutions to help protect their land, the loss of large cat diversity as predators, the ecology of pirarucu, one
of the largest fresh water fishes in the world, the hunting pressures of caiman species in the Amazon past and
present, and the rapid decline of amphibian populations throughout the Neotropics and the Amazon.
Chavera, Jessica (University of Houston-Clear Lake); David Moses, Trent Trittipo
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian
The Year of 1493
Charles Mann's book 1493: Uncovering The New World Columbus Created, examines the influential year of 1493
following Christopher Columbus' voyages to the Americas. Prominent to the economy of The New World was slavery
and the developing market of the slave trade. Slave laws followed deeming appropriate humans to be enslaved,
revealing the first legal racial segregation of people by their genetic makeup; known today as racism. Rising out of
mere consideration to humanity, individuals such as Bartolome de las Casas, a Spanish settler, exposed the injustices
being committed against indigenous people. This marked the introduction of humanism into The New World. Such
humanist acts were morally guided and thus partially governed by religious beliefs. Focusing on the exchange of
religion, the origin of Americas religious dissidence can be found in this interaction of 1493. Westward expansion
dynamically created worldwide ecological, political and economical interaction, yet religion differed in this exchange.
The paradoxical role of religion highlights the need for interfaith dialogue. A brief look into the history of 1493 will
illustrate this paradox in America from the clash of Christianity with indigenous culture, to immigrants seeking
freedom from religious persecution, to the oft tumultuous coexistence of different faiths today. Also apparent in
religion was the vital role that Catholic priests played in impacting the colonization of The New World. The complex
relationship between European priests and their own countrymen through the lens of Charles Manns book is
revealed. While priests sometimes condoned slavery, they often opposed European authorities and fought for the
rights of native peoples. The conclusion that Catholic priests played a vital role in the colonization of The New World
is established. The emergence of humanism and racism due to slavery will be explained in the extensive logistics of
the slave trade. Also to be explored is the interfaith dialogue of religion.
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Cheruvu, Raj (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Ye Kim, Angela Carter, Celina Gauthier, Jamie Orr, Krithika Suresh,
Suchit Amin, Gina Magana, Ali Alshagag, Haru Turoff, Muayd Almarshoud, Nita Clements
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Alix Valenti
The Expansion Of Target To Canada
Target has decided to expand out of the United States for the first time in its history by extending to Canada. Over
the past two years they have accomplished a take-over of Zellers, a Canadian retail store similar to Target. This is not
the first time that retail stores from the United States have crossed into Canada; Wal-Mart did so in 1994. Canada
and the United States are similar in many ways; however, branching out to Canada is not as simple as it may seem.
Canadian policies on work ethic, labor laws, and corporate tax structure are different from that in the United States.
In addition, the Zeller stores will be renovated to accommodate the beliefs of Target; at this time there is scope to
implement subtle changes, which can greatly increase Targets customer satisfaction and improve profits. The
process of growing into Canada will give Target a chance to reevaluate its environmental policies and protocols,
which will not only help the citizens of Canada, but also help in Targets future expansion into other countries. We
will convey the steps needed to expand by examining Target's current approach and comparing it to its main
competitor, Wal-Mart.
Chu, Duc (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Kirsten Paine, Damian Hernandez
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Soil Vapor Extraction
Cieslinsk, Benjamin (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Tristan White
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Hydraulic Fracturing and the Environment
Cunningham, Kenneth (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Anne Henry
10 Principles of Photoreal 3D
Based on an article by Bill Fleming, this presentation will cover the 10 Principles of Photoreal 3D. These principles will
provide guidelines on how to create a more realistic 3D scene when using 3D modeling applications. These principles
are useful when striving to create a photoreal scene as well as adding believability to a cartoon or fantasy
environment.
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Dark, James (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Scott Eady, Dawn Zapp, James Dark, Roland McFarlane, Hanaa
Wassef
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Title: Ergonomic Evaluation of Johnson Space Center Water and Food Analytical Laboratory
The Johnson Space Center has recently remodeled some of the laboratories to improve operational effectiveness of
the work spaces. The majority of these laboratories are located in buildings built in the 1960s during the initial
development phase of the Center. The numerous laboratories located onsite support the in-depth rigorous study and
scientific evaluation of every component of the US Space Program, regardless of perceived importance, prior to being
cleared for use. This project will utilize a Laboratory Ergonomic Evaluation checklist to review the incorporation of
ergonomic principles into the design of the laboratory tools and workstations in the Water and Food Analytical
Laboratory. The results of the review will be discussed and suggestions provided to improve the ergonomic design of
the lab.
Dark, James (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Scott Eady, James Dark, Maria Ricardo
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
OSHA Compliance Chemical Facility Structured Audit
A structured auditing program is an essential part of an OSHA regulatory compliance program for a company or
facility. Auditing allows an organization to proactively identify gaps in a safety program before an injury or illness may
occur. Audits allow for both a snap shot in time to gauge the strength of a program and also for the generation of
data to develop performance trends. The use of a guidance document, such as an audit checklist, ensures consistent
data collection of specific regulatory program elements in a safety program, thus reducing variation in the data
collection. This project will utilize a structured auditing checklist to review the current strength of a safety
management program in a chemical manufacturing site. The results of the audit will be presented and recommended
corrective actions provided for any identified gaps.
Lyndon, Dick (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Environmental Restoration
Environmental restoration is the process we used to try to renew damaged resources; over the years, our agricultural
resources have been attacked by the widespread growth of humankind, and our refuse. Our impact and imprint upon
ecology is slowly causing devastation. We clear land destroying the natural habitats of animals in the plants living
there. Industrial plants and refineries are built creating more environmental toxins, and the waste products that they
produce. The impact on the Gulf of Mexico's coastline is not as obvious as the direct physical destruction, or
degradation of a one-time event. Other threats include, global climate change which could effect wetlands with an
increase of air temperature, shifts in precipitation, increased frequency of storms, droughts, floods, increased
atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations, and sea level rise and fall. All of these impacts could effect our wetland
functions and the wildlife that live within it. Simply put, restoration means to restore and clean up our environment.
By restoring some of the natural environments of plants, and animals, the marshes will begin to thrive instead of
failing. From 1998 to 2004, the Gulf Coast lost 9.6 mi.² of marshy lands per year. The largest problem has been loss
of its coastal wetlands. Louisiana loses approximately 2.5 mi.² a year of wetlands on its own. Every 2.7 miles of
wetlands will reduce a storms tidal surge by a foot. The disappearance of our wetlands has been a problem for
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decades long before hurricane Ike and Katrina struck. The higher salinity has won the natural habitats for an
astonishing range of life, from amphibians, like alligators, frogs, and salamanders, to aquatic life such as crabs,
turtles, pelicans, flounder, and migratory birds, have all but disappeared. The salt water has also killed vegetation
throughout the refuges, prompting land managers to burn acres of brown plants and grasses with the help of
stimulating new growth. There are two sources for these problems, natural, and man-made. The natural causes are
you erosion, salt water intrusion, hurricanes, and storm surges. The man-made causes exacerbate the land loss due
to dredging, channelization of waterways and levees for flood control and general developmental activities. The
production of oil and gas is only added to the problems and loss of our wetlands. Millions of barrels of oil have been
spilled in to the Gulf of Mexico causing billions of dollars of irreversible damage to the ecosystem of the Gulf waters.
The use of chemicals on crops, and the byproducts of large refineries also add to the man-made problems. The
flooding at five (Superfund) sites and the wholesale destruction along the already infamous "cancer alley" the
industrial corridor between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, have only served to complicate matters for cleanup
officials. Some of the primary authorities for oil spill cleanup are; The Oil Pollution Act (OPA), The Comprehensive
Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act, also known as (Superfund), The Clean Water Act (CWA), The
National Marine Sanctuaries Act (NMSA), and The Park System Resources Protection Act (PSRPA), these authorities
are in place to help the states cleanup and restore our environment. The process to renew our natural environment
is a long and arduous one. Nature has many ways in which it can destroy our wetlands and marshes, hurricanes, tidal
surges, pH levels etc. we are not only fighting nature, we are fighting the effects of ourselves as well, and the
destruction that mankind has over his environment. By cleaning up and rebuilding the wetlands but only in Louisiana,
and Texas, but along the whole golf Coast, we can help to restore the delicate balance of nature. We have to learn to
control our pollutants, reduce our ecological footprint, and rebuild natures estuaries.
Dougharty, Darryl (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Larry Theis
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Waste dispensed by the medical industry and its effects on the environment
The disposal of waste by the medical industry is one that many do not consider, but one that has a great impact on
our environment. In researching this issue, we found that the effects of this waste on the environment can lead to
serious and potentially life threatening health hazards for those affected by the disposal of these hazardous wastes.
The hazard of these wastes comes from improper disposal that leads to contamination of the air and water around
these dump sites resulting in the spreading of diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis to the exposure of viral and
bacterial infections. These improper and even illegal dumping practices are something that can be avoided through
the utilization of licensed disposal companies, better accountability of the medical industry through increased
enforcement of environmental regulations, and greater awareness to the community of the threat these wastes pose
to the environment. With the Texas Medical Center being the largest in the world, this work has the potential for a
great impact in the greater Houston area.
Dummer, Michael (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mattie C. Porter
SEC v. JBI
This presentation will discuss the case of the Securities Exchange Commission v. JBI. We will discuss the similarities
and differences of the JBI case and some of the notorious cases (Enron, Worldcom) and how it happened. We will
also discuss how the SEC is pursuing JBI because of rule changes and how the SEC not only allowed but in ways
condoned Enrons questionable accounting practices. Finally, we will discuss how Sarbanes-Oxley has allowed the SEC
to purse the JBI executives more aggressively than in the years prior to SOX.
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Eldridge, Austin (Lee College)
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. John Britt
Houston Graffiti as Social Criticism
The wheat-paste artists, Shreddi, and Give Up, use publicly visible space in the State of Texas as a canvas to express
their personal ideologies. The two artists draw on the momentum created by Jade and Damet, the two graffiti artists
who brought the graffiti movement to Houston in the late 1980s. Shreddi and Give Up express dissatisfaction with
current social mores, and publicly criticize those mores through the venue of illegal street art. For example, Shreddi
espouses a distaste for blind conformity and the surrender of one's personal identity for acceptance within the
corporate environment. In a similar vein, Give Up criticizes a wide range of socially acceptable topics which he
considers reprehensible; however, he chiefly focuses on vanity in America by defacing billboards with his moniker. As
a result of his boldness, Give Up fled the Houston, Texas area to avoid prosecution from local law enforcement. Both
artists, Shreddi, and Give Up, elucidate and share profound messages, and their method of sharing those messages
evokes divisive emotions amongst the general public, creating a varied range of positive and negative responses.
Enow, Roland (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mattie C. Porter
The UK Bribery Act 2010 -- FCPA on Steroids?
The sustained growth of many developing and emerging countries has been threatened by acts of bribery and
corruption by powerful multinationals and corporations.The OECD and Transparency International have exerted
considerable pressure on nations to enact anti-bribery legislation.The U.S. has been at the forefront and enacted the
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)in 1977. While this act has been praised by many,it has been frequently tested
by persistent lawsuits and criticisms from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and some businesses that see the FCPA as
creating an unfair playing ground for U.S. corporations. The UK Bribery Act of 2010 became effective in the summer
of 2011 and is considered stricter and harsher than the FCPA. It expands the scope of inquiry and enforcement from
just the government dealings covered under the FCPA to encompass commercial bribery and makes main offenses
both active and passive. This wider scope has led many to refer to it as "FCPA on Steroids". This paper probes into the
differences between the U.S. FCPA and the UK Bribery Act 2010 and its potential impact to individuals, corporations
and governments.
Freeman, Gloria (Laredo Community College)
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. Daniel McInnis
Disabled Paitient Transfer Board
Being a disabled person, I face challenges that most americans don't notice, on a regular basis. When bedridden or
confined to a wheelchair a disabled person and his provider encounter difficulties in the transfer: Patient bed to
wheelchair Wheelchair to bath Wheelchair to automobile Wheelchair to examination table I have seen several
different transfer boards. I feel that from a patients view, appear to be very unstable. They are a plain flanged plank
with a strip of non-skid on one side. My design incorporates a fiberglass product approximately two and a half feet
long,approximately one and a half feet wide and one inch thick, similar to an ambulancfe back-board. Hand holds
throughtout the exterior of the transfer board to ensure a proper hand-hold angle. The body of the transfer board
will have a row of rollers to make the transfer less strenuous for the provider and easier for the patient. Most
transfer boards do not have legs to stabilize the transfer. My design will have legs to aid in the stabilization of the
transfer and has a security measure in that the legs can lock into the side of the bed or inside the car door to secure
the transfer.
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Garcia, Sherina (Lee College)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Kathleen Sydnor
Gonzo247: Heart of Graffiti
Graffiti is now recognized as a global movement of contemporary art. Native Houstonian, Gonzo247, is a grafftit
artist who walks on both sides of the wall-legal and illegal- bringing street art to the fine arts through his founding
and curating of the Aerosol Warfare Gallery. Gonzo247's scope as an artist reaches past the local scene to the
international circuit; his commissioned works include Sony, Coca-Cola, the Houston Public Library, and African
Embassy. A leading figure in Houston, Texas, Gonzo247 promotes this alternative art form to the public. His
educational forums include teaching at various schools around the Houston area, teaching at the street art school,
CKC StArt, informative interviews, and dealings with the Houston city council. The goal of this campaign is to take
street art from the streets to a legal venue. The Aerosol Warfare Gallery, under the direction of Gonzo247, acts as the
intermeidary for artists to reach that achievement.
Gonzales, Andrea(University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
The loss of mechanical integrity within our infrastructure
My proposal is to write about the loss of mechanical integrity within our infrastructure, the aging and the metal
corrosion that is constantly occurring at our chemical plants and refineries and the many accidents that we have
incurred in the last few years because of this deterioration. I propose to improve this constant decay and motivate
the economy by creating more jobs within safety and at the same time provide a new movement and awakening to a
new industrial revolution. By creating jobs and developing a better infrastructure within our communities and cities
we will also create jobs in order to keep our Industry safe. If we can provide a tax incentive to small companies,
provide funds for innovative infrastructure renovations as rail, bridges roads, and safe pipelines we will be able to
improve the mechanical integrity within our aging cities and petrochemical plants and refineries. We will create jobs,
improve the economy, provide a safer place to live and work. To develop these type of renovations that go beyond
compliance we must provide some type of tax breaks to not only small business but to the major refineries and
chemical plants doing business in the US. The banks need to start lending money and assure that the company that is
providing, hiring and promoting these new industrial innovative ideas, industrial improvements in infrastructure and
mechanical integrity is awarded these funds. We must also have an enforcement agency that protects our money,
how it is invested and how it is borrowed. If we as a nation are to survive we must work together to develop our
countries infrastructure and mechanical integrity in the things that we make in this country. So when we say this was
made in America that all nations and people will know that it was created with the best mechanical integrity in the
world, the best parts and that it was made safely by people who take pride in saying this was made in America, this is
the best and is meant to last. In the last 15 years we have had so many tragic accidents and loss of lives at refineries,
chemical plants, drilling rigs, bridges, rail cars, and roads. We have not constructed a new oil Refinery since World
War II. The largest chemical plants were built during World War II. We have not built new bridges, new rail ways and
structures since the 1960s.
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Gonzalez, Marla (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Impact of Ergonomic Equipment on Repetitive Injuries
This subject affects many people while at their place of employment and can have damaging affects if proper
precautions are not taken. Both the employer and employee can lose money due to these injuries. Employers must
be willing to provide a safe work environment for the employee be providing ergonomic designed equipment or even
ergonomic assessments of the work station. This project will look into how ergonomic work stations or equipment
(ex: adjustable desks, ergo chairs) can decrease serious repetitive injuries. Some of the common injuries are: Carpal
Tunnel, Deep Vein Thrombosis, Eye Strain, Back Injuries. Employees can spend 40 to 70+ hours at work behind a desk
or in a certain environment and not be aware their body position or actions are putting stress on certain areas. For
example, I am a court reporter who can spend the majority of the day in a chair typing all day. Occasionally my wrists
have had sharp pains that continue for almost a week but then subside; I have experience strong back pains as well.
Some of these injuries can be long term without the right equipment.
Graham, Brandy (Lone Star College-North Harris)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Katharine Caruso
Prenatal Education on Childhood Safety Issues
My project will focus on teaching mothers at a local pregnancy center about emergency first aid for infants and
children. This study examines best practices for the prevention of potential emergency conditions that could lead to
illness or even death.
Gurjala, Swathi (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Ashish Chandra
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ashish Chandra
Autotransfusion: Emergency Care In Healthcare Of Nigeria
Nigeria suffers from poor healthcare and has the largest epidemic of HIV/AIDS and other diseases like Hepatitis B, C
which spread through blood transfusions. Voluntary blood donations are rare. Thousands of people die every year
from lack of compatible blood during emergencies. Nigeria ranks second in the world in the number of deaths due to
road accidents every year. The country does not have proper equipment and does not use the available equipment to
get its value. Under such circumstances, alternatives to blood transfusion have to be assessed. Autotransfusion has
proved to be one of the best alternatives. This transfusion also helps in addressing the challenges related to the
deficiency in blood supply in Nigeria. The main reason for this is scarcity in voluntary blood donation. Knowledge,
attitudes and beliefs of the population plays a critical role in blood donors. Another reason for blood supply scarcity
may stem from the fact that people fear that they could get infected due to the known fact of poor sanitary
conditions in Nigeria. Thus, the problems of emergency need of blood or safe blood even in non-emergency
conditions can be resolved by finding alternatives and evaluating them to check the usefulness. Some of the
strategies to address blood shortage and transfusion in Nigeria will be discussed in this presentation.
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Gurjala, Swathi (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dianne Love, Lee Revere
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Dianne Love
Meta-analysis of Physician Alignment Alternatives
During the past few decades, physician practice alignments have evolved to meet the changing financial markets.
Medical providers are continually challenged to identify new arrangements that will best serve both their patients
and their financial needs. Medical practice alignments are extremely varied, including practice mergers, acquisitions,
partnerships, joint contracting, and more. According to Internal Medicine News 2007, the number of physicians in
single or two-person practices has reduced from 41% in 1997 to 33% in 2005. Alternatively, the number of mid-sized
groups has increased from 13% to 18% during this same period. Much of the decline in the number of one and two
person practices is due to specialty physicians aligning. In fact, the number of medical specialists in single or two
physician practices decreased by 12% from 1997 to 2005, and the number of single or two physician surgical specialty
practices decreased by 10.3%, during the same period. On the other hand, primary care physicians in solo and twoperson practices remained stable at about 36% (Anderson, 2007). Physicians are not only seeking partnership, but
many are also seeking to assume less financial risk. As the payment structure changes due to managed care and costcutting measures by Medicare/ Medicaid, some physicians are choosing to become employed. A national study from
the Center for Studying Health System Change (HSC), showed the percentage of physicians who own their practice
has reduced from 61.6% to 54.4% during the years 1997 to 2005 (Liebhaber & Grossman, 2007). Isaacs et al. found
the number of physicians who own their own practice has declined by 2% every year over the past 25 years (2009).
The New York Post reported that more than two-thirds of medical practices were physician owned in 2005; yet, in
2010, it was less than 50% and is projected to be less than 33% by 2013 (Gottlieb, 2010). These changes in ownership
(alignment) show a shift towards individual physicians wanting less financial risk. The current focus on healthcare
reform promises to again change the financial reimbursement structure for medical care. For a physician who is
skilled at patient care, the operational and financial impact of healthcare reform is daunting. Effective alignments
allow physicians to capitalize on external resources such as, contracting specialists, financial analysts, supporting
staff, billing efficiencies, information technologies, and other resources; all of which contribute to financial stability in
a turbulent payment environment. This research explores the numerous physician alignment options including
alignments with: a community hospital, a healthcare system, a large group practice, a newly formed group practice,
concierge medicine alternatives, etc. Although all of these alignments are aimed at lowering individual physician
financial risk, while assuring the ability to provide quality medical care, there are benefits and challenges of each
alignment. Throughout this research, not only will the prevalence and structure of the various alignment options be
discussed, there will be a strong focus on weighing the merits of each possible alignment. References: 1. Anderson, J.
(2007, Sept 15). Small Practices Decline. Internal Medicine New. Retrieved from
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb4365/is_18_40/ai_n29428080/ 2. Liebhaber, A., Grossman, J., (2007,
August). Physicians Moving to Mid-Sized, Single-Specialty Practices. Center for Studying Health System Change.
Retrieved from http://www.hschange.com/CONTENT/941/#ib1 3. Isaacs, S. L., Jellinek, P. S., and Ray, W. L. (2009,
February 12). The Independent Physician — Going, Going . . . New England Journal of Medicine. 360:655-657.
Retrieved from http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp0808076 4. Gottlieb, S. (2010, Oct 17). Killing Marcus
Welby-How ObamaCare stifles private prac
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Haenggi, Nora (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian
Romancing Pocahontas
The research for this essay assesses Disneys and Hollywoods romanticizing of the American Indian often referred to
as the Noble Savage. More specifically it will read Pocahontas as metonym for the dehumanization of the Native
American female subject. Since this is a study of the history of stereotyping the Native American, both film and text
will be researched for comparison. Writings by past and current authors such as Paula Gunn Allen, Charles C. Mann,
Lord Michel Eyquem de Montaigne, Cornel Pewewardy, Jean-Jaques Rousseau, Helen C. Rountree, and John Smith
will be compared with two films – Pocahontas and Reel Injun. Hollywoods treatment of the American Indian lends
a type of invisibility in the American macroculture that sees the native population through xenophobic eyes. The
result of such treatment creates a relatively unabated subaltern effect on an entire race of people. This essay
examines the history and potential originations of the American Indian Princess stereotyping and of the Noble Savage
narrative.
Hamilton, Michael (University of Houston-Clear Lake);Thomas Marsalia
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Constructed Wetlands
The use of natural treatment systems, also known as constructed or engineered wetlands are becoming increasingly
popular for the treatment of wastewater from a variety of sources. Constructed wetlands are an easily sustainable,
low cost, low energy, and a beneficial form of wastewater treatment. They are not only beneficial for their ability to
effectively clean contaminated water, but can also provide recreational use for communities and habitat for wildlife.
If a wetland is properly constructed, the advantages of its operation can far outweigh those of traditional wastewater
treatment systems. The more clean drinking water we have the better. Constructed wetlands are an efficient,
environmentally safe, and effective method of wastewater treatment and remediation.
Hedderick, Haley (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Anne Henry
Keeping Up With the Trends: The Importance of Emerging Media/Technology in
Organizational Culture
This presentation will detail the importance of staying current with the emerging media and technology in
organizational cultures, including the impact in the areas of marketing and public relations. Companies today have
many challenges to overcome in order to keep pace with the demands of the information market. As technology and
communication methods, such as social media and the app world, continue to evolve, so do the expectations of
companies' target markets. Consumers expect to have constant and immediate contact with products and
companies, along with information/customer service that is available via social networks, digitally-enhanced web
sites and other forms of digital media. New technologies have changed the face of consumer-business interaction in a
way that opens the door to better customer service, product awareness and brand management. It provides
corporations with an avenue to connect with audiences on a new found level. Businesses are able to showcase their
brand in a new arena that focuses on true interaction with fans and even with those who don't love their product.
This real-world case study examines how digital strategies help organizations keep pace with evolving
technologies/media and the processes involved in doing so. It will explore how organizations can bridge the vast
communication and technology landscape to focus in on the best methods and technologies to provide the greatest
return on investment, in addition to the highest-level of consumer engagement and satisfaction.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Johnson, Kyle (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Anne Henry
Animation Symposium and Festival
As part of the Animation Symposium and Festival, this presentation will showcase the final project from two
semesters of the DMST 5132 3D Modeling and DMST 5235 Animation courses. The specific hurdles with research and
methods necessary to overcome them will be discussed. The project focuses on use of glass in 3D modeling and
animations and placement of multiple objects and effects on final rendering. The presentation will also explore the
dynamics of character creation and rigging for movement. At the conclusion of presentations, the final animations of
all symposium members will be presented in their entirety and open to audience member questions.
Kimble, Keith (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Anne Henry
Blast Me to Free
Based on original writing, this short story explores an inaminate character that comes to life and realizes that in order
to break free from his constraint, he must use his options wisely so that he can be free for good. The goal of this
project was to gain in-depth knowledge of 3D rigging and kinematics pertaining to biped characters as well as
character animation techniques and processes.
Kulkarni, Rama (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. Raymond Khoury
Rising trends in the Quality of Healthcare
The Institute of Medicine defines healthcare quality as the extent to which health services provided to individuals
and patient populations improve desired health outcomes. The care should be based on the strongest clinical
evidence and provided in a technically and culturally competent manner with good communication and shared
decision making. Total quality is best defined as an attitude, an orientation that permeates an entire organization,
and the way in which that organization performs its internal and external business. People who work in
organizations dedicated to the concept of total quality constantly strive for excellence and continuous quality
improvement in all that they do. Healthcare quality is affected by many factors. Rather it is defined by many factors.
One of the biggest factors is patient satisfaction. Patient satisfaction is a multi-dimensional healthcare construct
affected by many variables. Healthcare quality affects patient satisfaction, which in turn influences positive patient
behaviors such as loyalty. A central goal of health care quality improvement is to maintain what is good about the
existing health care system while focusing on the areas that need improvement. Improving the quality of care and
reducing medical errors are priority areas for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). It is time to
pause and reflect on the degree to which performance measurement is acting optimally and in the interests of
society and health. This paper will mainly focus on the rising trends in the quality of healthcare, measurement of
healthcare quality and the need for continuous improvement in it.
Kulkarni, Rama (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Divya Kasargod, Ashish Chandra
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ashish Chandra
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Ethical Issues in Neonatal Care-A Global Perspective
Neonatology is a subspecialty of pediatrics that consists of the medical care of newborn infants, especially the ill or
premature newborn infant. It is a hospital-based specialty, and is usually practiced in neonatal intensive care units
(NICUs). The principal patients of neonatologists are newborn infants who are ill or requiring special medical care
due to prematurity, low birth weight, intrauterine growth retardation, congenital malformations (birth defects),
sepsis, or birth asphyxias. Although technology has advanced in the recent years, there are still some ethical issues
concerning neonatal care as not only the patient but also the family of the patient are affected by neonatal health
issues. Some common ethical questions concerning neonatal care are: Are the costs of neonatal intensive care
acceptable?; Who decides whether an infant receives care?; etc. This paper will provide a comparative view of
ethical issues pertaining to this critical health issue from the western medicine perspective while comparing
situations in India and United States. Among the various factors that will be discussed in this presentation will be the
issues related to the lack of importance that individuals and institutions may put on neonatal mortality care, poor
utilization of primary health services and very poor maternal care receptivity especially in terms of antenatal care,
complications newborns faced within six weeks of the delivery, etc. Another relevant ethical issue deals with child
abandonment which may be due to social and cultural factors as well as mental illness.
Landry, Lydia Jodi Nunez (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Coastal Erosion & Conservation in Louisiana
Lestarjette, Tricia (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Teresa Kerwin, Mathew Scmidt, Aaron Herridge, Lana
Wohlgemuth
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
The Negative Consequences of Hydraulic Fracturing
Hydraulic fracturing has reformed fruitless organic shales into exceedingly productive sources of natural gas. These
born again fields of fuel have the potential for the United States to reduce its dependence on foreign energy imports
as well as lower its national carbon dioxide emissions. These positive outcomes are a touchy topic because they
come with counter arguments most do not want to hear about. The effect fracking has on the environment and its
inhabitants are extreme. The health and welfare of millions are at risk due to this controversial form of energy
harnessing, and seem to be swept aside when the phrase fuel independence enters the discussion. This group
project brings to light the negative long-term impact hydraulic fracturing has on its surroundings. Emissions, water
contamination, the effect on life in all forms, what efforts are exercised to clean up the wells, and current locations
are topics that will be covered. The exact process along with equipment, chemicals used, and options to help avoid
these outcomes will be thoroughly described and illustrated to give everyone the understanding of what exactly
happens to the land as it is hydrofracked.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Long, Teresa (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Bucket Elevator Conveyor Safe Work Procedures
Manufacturing facilities generating combustible dust are not following safe work procedures as outlined by Conveyor
Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA) during inspection, cleaning or maintenance operations on bucket
elevator conveyors. During the past year, two fatalities occurred as a result of a combustible dust flash fire during
maintenance procedures on a bucket elevator. Control of hazardous energy (Lockout / Tagout) procedures designed
to safeguard employees during startup are ignored. Access covers are left open, creating fire and explosion hazards.
Personnel remain in close proximity of process equipment while it is restarted. A CSB Case Study, a CEMA safety
document, OSHA citations, and an OSHA Regulation: Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout / Tagout) were reviewed.
Best industry practices do not provide specific safety guidance during bucket elevator Lockout/ Tagout procedures.
Specific Lockout / Tagout regulations (OSHA) instructing employers to secure bucket elevator access covers prior to
restarting equipment after maintenance procedures were found, however these regulations do not address the risk
of combustible dust flash fires or explosions. Combustible dust fire and explosion hazards must be recognized in
addition to unexpected energization or startup of process equipment that could cause harm to employees in close
proximity. Providing industry-wide outreach and educating stakeholders on the risks posed by explosive atmospheres
existing inside bucket elevators which are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees when access
covers are left open will save lives. Communicating the risk minimizes the probability of occurrence and reduces the
severity of consequence of workers exposed to explosive atmospheres during bucket elevator maintenance
operations.
Lyra, Kalan(University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Anne Henry
The Fall
The project that I wish to present is an animated short film that has been rendered in a 3D program called "MAYA".
The film depicts a young man that has discovered that his new running shoes are magical. The shoes emit an blue
green glow as they imbue their wearer with incredible speed and leaping abilities. In the film we find Darius,(the
protagonist), running to the edge of a large ravine, he picks up speed and leaps. We see him soaring through the sky,
the gaping maw of the pit beneath him, as he glides to the other side. The spectacle is fantastical, but the metaphor
is real for everyone. If we charge to the edge ,without fearing the fall, we can do incredible things, and maybe the
greatest adventures are on the other side of our greatest obstacles, but getting there requires a leap of faith.
Malhotra, Abiya (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Dr. Ashish Chandra
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ashish Chandra
The health related technology that should definitely be present on board merchant ships.
Merchant Navy is often one of the least understood marine time industries. The captain of a merchant navy vessel
may at times have more responsibilities than they are given credit for. When it comes to healthcare onboard, the
captain serves as the director of medicine on board merchant ships, in time of an emergency. The captain has
unlimited liability as compared to the rest of the crew, which has limited liability. It is very crucial for the captain to
make decisions in terms of life and death. The most unpredictable cause of accidents, morbidity and mortality in the
shipping industry and across the world is cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Passenger cruise ships have a medical
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practitioner on board but merchant ships do not. Hence it is important for all crew members on board merchant
ships to be trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS). Automated
External Defibrillators is not an expensive equipment to invest in that can be a crucial lifesaving tool if needed.
Training the crew in using the automated external defibrillator (AED) is crucial. Although it is not required by law for
merchant ships to have an AED on board, however, at least one automated external defibrillator (AED) must be
present on every merchant ship.
Matkar, Mitesh (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ashish Chandra
Obsolete Healthcare Technology Related Equipment
Over the period of last few decades health care technology has come a long way. However, these advances in
technology have also created an interest challenge by way of creating a surplus of equipment that is being replaced
by the technologically advanced equipment. Such surplus and wastage of technology played a significant role in the
development and passing of the Electronic Waster Recycling Act by the United States in 2009 which encouraged
healthcare facilities in using ingenious ways of recycling and reusing the materials to minimize the waste output.
There are several strategies that healthcare institutions can adopt to tackle the challenges related to this surplus.
However, it often is harder to find replacement parts for the equipment that many of the healthcare organizations
could not replace due to scare resources. Some organizations can choose to liquidate the product to scrap dealers
and electronic waste management companies who can reuse the plastics and precious metals. However, the price
for such waste disposal can be quite high. Perhaps the most convenient way of handling obsolete equipment is to
donate to an organization. An added benefit of donating the equipment to third world or a developing country is
that the receiving economy can have a chance to decrease the mortality rate.
McCann, Matthew (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
The Wetlands: EPA's Current Regulations and How They Can Improve To Protect a
Diminishing Resource
The wetlands are a natural resource that provides many benefits to humanity, such as providing a source of fresh
water and a natural habitat for various forms of life. Currently, the wetlands main protection from extinction comes
in the form of regulations from EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). EPA's Regulations currently try to mitigate
the loss of the wetlands by providing financial incentives to not destroy them as well as programs that encourage
citizens to purchase ownership of the wetlands. However, even with these regulations and programs in place, there
has been a steady decline in the global quantity of wetlands. The decline can be contributed to many factors, such as
human development and the change in the global climate. The decline in the population of wetlands is a serious
issue, and if not addressed within the near future, will lead to serous implications on our way of life. My project will
focus on how the current EPA regulations are protecting the wetlands,how effective the regulations are, and how I
would change the current regulations to further improve the protection of the wetlands. My end goal is to provide
recommendations that stop the current trend of wetland degradation.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
McCann, Matthew (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Bill Young, June Rogillio, Chris Becermann
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Construction Safety: The process of Auditing a Site as an OSHA Compliance Officer
The construction field can be considered to be one of the more deadly places to be in today's work environment,
which leads to its disproportionate amount of OSHA investigations compared to other larger industries. The person
responsible for auditing the construction field is the OSHA compliance officer, whose main tasks involves identifying
violations in OSHA standards as well as calculating the correct penalty fees for the company in question. Our focus in
this group project will be to simulate what an actual OSHA inspection would accomplish by acting as OSHA
compliance offers inspecting a construction site provided to us by a anonymous company. Our main focuses as OSHA
compliance officers will be to identify the OSHA standards that are being violated in our inspection, to calculate what
the penalties will be based on the formula provided by OSHA, and to recommend solutions for the company to help it
improve beyond OSHA's standards. Through this project, my group will learn the important steps an OSHA
compliance officer must take to inspect a construction site, and how a company can improve to go above and beyond
in improving the safety of their construction site.
McCasland, Stephanie (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mattie C. Porter
Kickback Schemes
This presentation will analyze a federal case filed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the FBI
involving thirteen alleged conspirators charged with using kickbacks and other schemes to commit fraud. The
defendants promoted investments in microcap stocks and disguised the kickbacks as consulting services. Microcap
stocks are low priced stocks of companies which are not required to file financial information with the SEC. In the
presentation, the following components will be identified and discussed: the circumstances of the case, fraud issues
in the case, and the laws involved in the case. The presentation concludes with a discussion of the implications of
the case for investors.
McFarlane, Roland (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Yoland Akohachere, Yi Wang
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Construction Site Inspection
The Construction Industry is considered high hazard; it ranks in the top three for deaths and work-related injuries in
comparison to other industries. This project will involve a visit to a construction site, where the team will conduct an
inspection with the intent to identify unsafe conditions and other risk factors with an inherent potential to cause
injury or death. The team will make use of the State of Texas - Texas Department of Insurance - Construction Safety
Inspection Checklist for the onsite inspection. The results of the inspection will be analyzed and recommendations
will be submitted.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Murchison, RoKeisha (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Harmful Bacteria in Wastewater Treatment Facilities
I am submitting a proposal to research bacteria that may be present in our wastewater treatment facilities,
particularly antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Wastewater treatment facilities have cleaned up many areas that were once
human waste drainages. Treatment plants have been using "good" bacteria to treat the water, but the bacteria used
in these plants may be mixing with "bad" bacteria, which could possibly prove the facilities to be more harmful than
helpful.
Nguyen, Chi (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Rajesh Uppala, Robert Behrendsen, Yoland Akohachere, Yi Wang
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Optimizing the design of Lawn Trimmers to diminish Cumulative Trauma Disorders
Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTD) is a continuing occurrence for landscape maintenance workers. A typical
landscape maintenance team normally has from four to six people. Each of those carries particular equipment and
performs a particular job. Carrying the equipment and holding awkward postures that require of the job over time
are associated with pain and injury to muscles and tendons in the arm, back, and shoulder. Expenses as a result of
CTDs can put an employer out of business. In order to reduce the impacts from the job conditions, the X-5 group
will study a lawn trimmer and its impacts on the operator. The study is going to provide an alternate solution, a
lawn trimmer redesign to be more ergonomic. The reason of studying a lawn trimmer is the ergonomic practitioners
found a few risk factors associated with use of the lawn trimmer including vibration, awkward postures, and forceful
muscle exertion -- lifting the equipment all the time of operating, and repetition. Moreover, there are alternative
designs in the market; however, they often have high prices. The price of a common lawn mower, for instance, is
two times more expensive than a lawn trimmer at around $120. The solution that the team is working on will be
complied with requirements including height adjustable, lite weight, decreasing vibration, elimination of awkward
postures, limit the impacts on body parts -- shoulder, arms, and back, and economical. A cost analysis will be
included to show expenditure compensations and or savings. The study will be completed by 15 April 2012.
Nixon, Jon (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Chris Beckermann, Lauren Cooper, Mari Ricardo-Roca
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Ergonomic Assessment of Radiology Screening Rooms for a Breast Cancer Center
An ergonomic assessment of a screening/reading room with multiple workstations within a Breast Cancer Center will
be conducted due to the expressed ergonomic concerns by the radiologists. The desks within the room are used by a
large number of physicians, fellows, and residents. A full ergonomic assessment and recommendations will be
presented.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Odetola, Betty (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Ozone Depletion
Patil, Prachi (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Biomass Recovery and Treatment of Dairy Effluent by Spirulina Platensis
Preston, Sara (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Michael Phares, Evan Harrington
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
PSM in Construction
In general industry, protocols are given and Process Safety Management Programs are in place and normally followed
to prevent or minimize catastrophic releases. However, in construction with more incidents occurring, how often are
the requirements of Process Safety Management not followed nor practiced. This paper is to evaluate a construction
site for a Process Safety Management Program in place and their culture to ensure prevention within todays work
environment.
Ratakonda, Rajesh (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Melting of Himalayas
Reed, Courtney S. (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Charles Thomas Allen, Abraham John Bragg, Armando Flores,
Joshua Glen Garrison, John Devon Gibson, Timothy Joe Grupa, Jacob Rae Hayes, Jason Aaron Hill, Patrick L. Hollins,
David Michael Mahnke, Monty Daniel May, Rodrigo Samuel Medrano, Joel Lee Violet, Sanford Earl Russell
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Shreerekha Subramanian
Poetry from the Prison
A group of talented poets from our student population who is working on a college degree from prison shares their
own work and the work of poets who inspire them. In styles that ranges across the board from spoken word artistry
to language poets, narrative works and free form, the students demonstrate an agility that breaks down barriers,
preconceived notions and generates a charge between intellectual honesty and aesthetic luminosity. As Leonard
Peltier informs in his poem, We are not separate, in listening to these poets from within the walls, we come to
realize, We are not separate, you and I/ We are different strands of the same being … You reach out across the
void of Otherness to me/ and you touch your own soul!
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Robinson, Rabbab (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mattie C. Porter
Breach of Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)
In this presentation we will analyze the case against British Aerospace Electronic Systems (BAES) for bribing various
Eastern European public officials for its own benefit. The U.S. charged BAES with conspiracy to commit fraud, making
false statements, and violating the Arms Export Control Act and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. U.S.
prosecutors also alleged BAES was not operating in compliance with the anti-bribery provisions of the Foreign
Corrupt Practices Act. We will also discuss how BAES consistently failed to classify and disclose the commissions it
paid to the third parties that were used to influence the decision makers responsible for the purchase of defense
material. We will conclude with an analysis of the findings in the case and implications of this important FCPA case.
Rodriguez, Candy (Lee College)
Faculty Sponsor: Mr. John Britt
Hispanic Influence on Graffiti in Texas
Hispanic graffiti artists in America make political statements in public spaces. Two of the most notable Houston,
Texas locals, Skeez 181 and Weah, both have unique artistic styles influenced by their ethnicity. Skeez 181 employs
images that reference ancient Aztec hieroglyphics, while Weah focuses on practicing his freedom of speech. Both
graffiti artists honed their skills on public spaces, and as a result of this illegal practice, Skeez 181 landed in prison in
1996. Having no intention of returning to prison, he decided to focus on legal walls, commissions and murals. Skeez
181 has painted commissions for several Houston businesses as well as national corporations including Coca-Cola,
Universal Records and ADV films. Weah concentrates on painting public spaces and can be found at the Houston
Skate Park, however; he has participated in group art shows at the Mexican Consulate of Houston, DiverseWorks,
Poissant Gallery, Aerosol Warfare Gallery, and The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art. He has also been
commissioned by Neiman Marcus and Converse. These artists demonstrate that Hispanics can incorporate their love
for graffiti and culture in a safe and legal environment.
Rodriguez, Robert (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Contamination of Galveston Bay
My term project will be on the contamination of Galveston Bay by different sources such as contaminated storm
runoff and or non-point source pollution. Since I am a Galveston resident, I find it very interesting to learn more
about my community and the effects that we have and what we can do to better protect our environment. I'm
interested in finding out what exactly is polluting our bay, the exact sources, what current projects are being
implemented to help with the reducing of contaminants and in what ways can we as individuals make a difference.
Galveston Bay is surrounded by plenty of communities that call it their backyard and it would be naive of us to
assume that everything is fine and there is nothing that needs to be done to protect it.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Russell, Mathew (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
The Texas Water Problem after the Drought of 2012
Sherrod, Rosa (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Patrick Claudio, Ronnie Hyek
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
OSHA and Construction Safety Inspection
An employee working in a construction environment can be exposed to various hazards. Potential physical hazards
for workers in a construction area can include: falls, trench collapse, electric shock, repetitive strain injuries and
failure of usage of PPE. The fatal four construction deaths are; falls, electrocutions, stuck by object, and caughtin/between. According to the BLS, eliminating the Fatal Four construction Deaths would save 431 workers lives in
America every year (Act). The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (the Act) empowers the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to conduct inspections at the workplace. Workplace inspections are
conducted by safety and health professionals in order to assure employees are working in a workplace free of
recognized hazards. Construction area inspections can focus on the fatal four hazards; therefore an OSHA Inspector
can perform a focused inspection. General inspections will cover all hazards in the area. The purpose of this project
is to conduct a general inspection of a construction site with the company Safety Specialist whom is competent and
qualified to conduct the OSHA inspection walk through with the team members. We will conduct this walk through as
if it was an actual OSHA inspection and will conduct an Opening Conference, Walkthrough, and Closing Conference
and then discuss recommendations and solutions to safety issues present during the inspection. Works Cited Act,
Occupational Safety Health. OSHA. <http://www.osha.gov/oshstats/commonstats.html>.
Smalling, Elizabeth (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Elizabeth Smalling, Dr. Ashish Chandra
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ashish Chandra
Healthcare Technology Onboard Passenger Airplanes
Medical emergencies can happen anywhere, including in passenger airplanes. However, these emergencies are few
and far between and most of the travel emergencies are not life threatening. Each airline is required to have some
forms of emergency medical kits. Flight crews are also trained on how to recognize medical distress symptoms as
well as in at least providing first-aid and CPR. However, when a medical emergency does arise, flight attendants
usually call to see if there is a physician onboard. This paper examines three areas of concern in regards to airline
medical care--technology, personnel, and the passenger. Not only does it cost money to install medical equipment
onboard airlines, it is also expensive to train personnel to use the equipment. Ethical concerns arise including turning
people away before they board the airplanes and the liability risks concerning utilization of the equipment. From the
administrative viewpoint, healthcare technology and training of flight attendants could definitely be improved.
However, there is a concern that if technology improves, training to use the equipment will also have to improve.
Unfortunately due to cost, liability, and time restraints, healthcare technology and quality of care onboard airplanes
is very limited. The possibility of improving airline healthcare technology and care does exist, but it is up to airlines to
decide if they want to invest in the future of healthcare technology onboard airplanes.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Stegmiller, Cassie (University of Houston-Clear Lake); LaTisha Nicholas, Jennifer Flores
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Waste Management
This project will discuss research on the various problems caused by waste management while exploring solutions to
reduce the harmful effects of it. Biology-online.org defines waste management as the disposal, processing,
controlling, recycling, and reusing the solid, liquid, and gaseous wastes of plants, animals, humans, and other
organisms. It includes control within a close ecological system to maintain a habitable environment. Many of our
countries landfills are reaching full capacity and this is putting potential harm on the environment, climate, and
human health. The potential problems presented by the lack of proper waste management could be illustrated by a
greenhouse gas called Methane. This gas is being released into the air as biodegradable waste is breaking down in
landfills, trapping heat, and emitting Carbon Dioxide into the environment (Kallman). The impact of waste
management on human health is quite drastic. According to Kallman, chemicals from landfills are leaking into water
aquifers and contaminating the water supply. Landfills are also problematic because they serve as a breeding ground
for rats, flies, and many other disease-carrying species. As waste management climbs the political and environmental
agenda, bright sparks in the industry are responding with innovation (Capel). New uprising technologies such as
Anaerobic Digestion, Waste to Energy, and Zero Waste, among many others, are plausible solutions for a better use
and management of American soils.
Stickler, Shalyn (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Megan Ash, Francisco Lopez, Jacob Dominy
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Audit of A Construction Site
We will be performing an audit on an anonymous construction site. During this audit we will be simulating the
actions of a true OSHA inspection by performing the following tasks. Recognize work hazards. Recognize work
exposures. Calculate employer violation costs according to violation type. State which standards are violated, and
fully explain the violations and which type they are. Provide a variety of abatement's according to each individual
violation, and explain how to correct each violation that was made.
Tran, Dung (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mattie C. Porter
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act-The Mario Covino Case
This case study will focus on an analysis of the bribery scheme of Mario Covino, Director of World Wide Factory Sales
of Control Components Incorporated (CCI). CCI is a California based manufacturer of service control valves used in
nuclear, oil and gas, and power industries. During the time from 2003 to 2007, Covino instructed CCI employees to
make payments of approximately $1 million to officials of foreign state-owned companies in order to secure sales
contracts and bring approximately $5 million in profits to CCI. The case involved payments which violated provisions
of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). The presentation will review the facts of the case, the laws which
were violated, and conclude with a discussion of how the FCPA was used to prosecute the offenders involved.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Wadhwa, Roopma (University of Houston-Clear Lake), Ashish Chandra
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ashish Chandra
Robotics in Healthcare Industry -- Current and Future Prospects
Robotics in healthcare is a relatively new idea however this technologically advanced healthcare technology has
been introduced to minimally invasive surgery as a means of providing improved visualization and greater dexterity.
This paper provides an overview about the development and growth of robotics in healthcare Industry, such as
surgical robotics. Robotics applications offer a wide range of possibilities for improving current surgical techniques,
as well as allowing the development of new procedures. Surgical robots have been developed to assist surgeons in
performing a wide range of procedures, such as laparoscopic surgery, prosthetic joint replacement surgery,
neurosurgery and telesurgery. Robots have also been developed to improve the accuracy of radiation treatment
which could not be performed without the aid to surgical robots. It potentially improves the precision of
manipulation compared to manual procedures, and provide improved mapping between the patient and his
volumetric image as given by sophisticated imaging equipment. Surgical robotics has the potential to open new
horizons for the surgical practice. The continued growth of this industry will be amplified by the fact that our society
is rapidly aging and will continue to want the best quality care we can afford. Medical robotics which brings forth a
new set of capabilities will surely continue to find an expanding role in healthcare.
Walden, Richard (University of Houston-Clear Lake); Brenda Barrera, Kim Johnson
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Global Warming and the New Science for/against it.
We would like to research global warming and the new sciences for and against it. We will discuss the effects, the
proofs, refutes, and theories of the cause. We will also mention the science behind it and what can be done to
improve the current conditions.
Weaver, Shannon (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
Job Safety Analysis in the Industrial Industry
One of the most important tools in the industrial industry to help mitigate and control workplace accidents and
injuries is the Job Safety Analysis (JSA). A JSA is a form that is completed before a job begins. It's purpose is to confirm
that all chemicals being handled have been assessed, personal protective equipment is used, job procedures are
known, potential hazards are identified, and actions are taken to eliminate such hazards. In my college studies and
safety training courses, I was taught that in order to assure a safe working environment, it is essential for all persons
working on a job to actively participate in the JSA and follow the proper job proceedures. Through my work
experience, I have learned that most of my crew members can only spot obvious hazards that can be immediately
addressed, and they have difficulty recognizing unseen hazardous conditions. This is often caused by lack of
communication, lack of knowledge, and falling prey to common traps in the work environment. Companies should
offer, perhaps even mandate, ongoing training for employees regardless of experience in order to increase their
knowledge of safety practices and to develop their skills and ability to address potential hazards. While the state and
federal governments have industry standards that companies must comply with, there should also be a requirement
for all workers to take continuing education courses to stay abreast of changes in processes and procedures and to
keep aware of safety issues in their field. With the increasing number of injuries and deaths occurring in the industrial
industry today, it is imperative that all workers realize they are responsible for their own safety as well as the safety
of those around them.
18th Annual Conference for Research and Creative Arts Proceedings, Cont.
Webster, Mason (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Anne Henry
"Departure"
This project is about the creation of a video called "Departure." Departure was created with Autodesk Maya, Adobe
After Effects, Adobe Premiere, and RealFlow. I will go into details about how Maya and RealFlow were used in the
production of the video. Specifically, I will focus on cloth simulations and fluid dynamics.
Youssef, Nameer (University of Houston-Clear Lake)
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Magdy Akladios
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch