Senior Honors Papers

Inclusive Business: Using For-Profit Business Models to Address Global Poverty

Samuel James Conner — Wed, 15 May 2013 05:34:14 PDT

Due to the rise of globalization, modernization, and the Internet revolution, awareness of global poverty has expanded, making its eradication a chief goal of the global development community for the twenty-first century. Though corporations are often expected to participate in social and community development initiatives without regard for profits, this paper presents inclusive business as a way for businesses to profitably engage impoverished segments of society. Inclusive businesses seek to expand their consumer bases or strengthen their supply chains by moving into new markets among the poor that have limited access to global markets and remain largely untapped. The research that follows herein delves into the inadequacies of corporate social responsibility and social business to achieve business sustainability and scalability in addressing poverty. This is followed by an overview of the business potential of low-income populations and some of the general requirements and challenges to doing business among these people. Finally, a number of business models will be examined along with several case studies, which provide real world insight into the implementation of those models, concluding with a brief discussion of the keys to achieving scale with inclusive business ventures. Scalable inclusive models allow businesses to expand their reach, whether to consumers or suppliers, beyond a limited community, enabling them to retain the motivation of profit while allowing millions of the world’s poor to participate in global markets and improve their standards of living.

Perception, Expression and Management of the Pain of Childbirth

Mary H. Christenson — Mon, 06 May 2013 07:07:55 PDT

In order to be a competent nurse on an American labor and delivery unit it is important to have an understanding of the pain of childbirth. This includes a thorough understanding of pain as a sensation and its manifestation during the birthing experience. An understanding of pain is useless, however, unless standardized pain assessment practices are used. The most accurate pain assessment is associated with a general understanding of cultural trends in pain perception and expression. Along with culture, other factors also influence how a woman senses and copes with the pain of labor. Anxiety is one of these influential elements and has a profound impact on the childbirth experience, which is why a well-rounded labor and delivery nurse has a diverse database of interventions for the stresses and discomforts of childbirth. This would include many of the increasingly popular alternative pain management methods. However, since pharmacological analgesics are the most frequently requested pain interventions in American labor and delivery units, nurses must thoroughly understand the method of action and potential complications of each of these medications as well.

Oral Contraceptives

Stephenie G. Fortier — Mon, 06 May 2013 07:07:54 PDT

Cyclic oral contraceptive and continuous oral contraceptives have many similarities yet a few distinct differences. One of the major differences between cyclic and continuous oral contraceptives is that cyclic oral contraceptive pills have twenty one active pills and seven inactive pills versus the new continuous oral contraceptive pills which have 28 active pills and no inactive pills. However, though cyclic and continuous oral contraceptives do have a few differences, both types of oral contraceptives affect a woman’s body in similar ways. When choosing between cyclic and continuous oral contraceptives, it is important for women to be informed about the advantages and disadvantages of both continuous and cyclic oral contraceptive pills.

Also, over the years, there have been debates between religious groups regarding oral contraceptives. The two religions that have prominent views on this topic are Catholic and Protestant. A few followers from each religion will be chosen to represent the religious group as a whole regarding the topic of oral contraceptives. The Bible will also be used as a source and cited for its writing related to oral contraceptives, marriage, sex, and children.

The Software Life Cycle Applied to the Development of the Avnul RPG Character Creation Program

James C. Rogers III — Fri, 03 May 2013 06:31:15 PDT

This project will endeavor to replicate the "cradle-to-grave" software engineering life cycle development process. This process takes a software project through many stages of existence, from requirements gathering to software design, coding, testing, and maintenance. In this thesis we apply this process to a character creation program, which will be constructed for a client to facilitate the design of his tabletop roleplaying game.

Over the course of developing this software, contact was maintained with the client, but difficulties were encountered in the form of shifting requirements as he refined and modified his as-yet unfinished game rules. Without regular communication, these changes would not have been adequately reflected in the final work. It was also observed that while testing is often an afterthought tacked onto the end of the development process, keeping it in mind during early stages of development makes its final implementation much easier. Due to technical difficulties in combination with the aforementioned shifting requirements, the software itself remains in development.

Education: An Opportunity to Reshape the Third World

Dottie Rhoads — Thu, 02 May 2013 05:57:35 PDT

The concept that education equips and enlightens people towards a brighter future is not revolutionary or unusual; applying this ideology to the Third World, however, is a more recent endeavor. Decades of study examining the effects of education on the lives of women in the Third World reveal that it has positive effects socially, culturally, politically and economically, as the single most determining factor improving the lives of women and children. This thesis researches the multi-faceted obstacles, stemming from longstanding norms, that prevent the education of women in the Third World, and it reveals the way in which overcoming those obstacles would usher in an age of progress and freedom into the lives of women in the Third World.

Simulating Inflation

Ryan M. Heathcote — Thu, 02 May 2013 05:57:34 PDT

Inflation is a common problem in modern economics, and it seems to persist, requiring government financial policy intervention on a regular basis in order to properly manage. The mechanics of inflation are difficult to understand, since the best metric modern society has for inflation involves taking samples of prices across the country. A simulation can give deeper insight into more than the mere fact that prices rise over time: a simulation can help to answer the “why” question. The problem with this statement is that developing a simulation is not as simple as writing some code. A simulation is developed according to a paradigm, and paradigms are not created equal. Research reveals that traditional paradigms that impose order from the outside do not mimic reality and thus do not give a good degree of accuracy. By contrast, Agent Based Modelling models reality very closely and is consequently able to simulate economic systems much more accurately.

A Study of the Titus 2 Mandate and How It Has Been Exemplified in the Lives of Women

Sara A. Meetre — Wed, 01 May 2013 04:51:10 PDT

Abstract

This thesis seeks to provide an in depth study of the Titus 2 Mandate and explain how the Mandate should be applied to our lives today. An overview of the book of Titus is given, as well as a study on Titus 2. How Titus 2 was modeled through the lives of women in the Bible, as well as how it was exemplified through women in Church history is also explained. It is important for Christian young women to understand their Biblical roles; this thesis seeks to provide clarity and a greater knowledge of what those roles are and how they should be implemented.

Nurses’ Perspectives on Neonatal Massage Therapy in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Kayla R. Hanson — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:02:50 PDT

Research in neonatal massage therapy has shown many possible benefits to the baby and family. Though there has been a growing trend towards family-centered care, along with a substantial and growing body of research, the practice of neonatal massage therapy is not routine in most NICUs. This study was conducted to evaluate neonatal intensive care nurses’ perspectives and attitudes towards neonatal massage therapy before and after evidence-based education. Willingness to discuss benefits of neonatal massage therapy significantly increased after education on neonatal massage therapy. The findings suggest that with proper training on the techniques and safety monitoring of massage therapy, nurses might be more willing to implement massage as part of a family-centered care with appropriate patients.

Graphic Evangelism

Mark H. Cupp — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:10:38 PDT

This thesis explores the use of mainstream graphic novels as a means of Christian evangelism. Though not exclusively Christian, the graphic novel, The Beast Within, will educate its target audience by using attractive illustrations, relatable issues, and understandable morals in a fictional, biblically inspired story. This thesis will include character designs, artwork, chapter summaries, and a single chapter of a self-written, self-illustrated graphic novel along with a short summary of Christian references and symbols. The novel will follow six half-human, half-animal warriors on their adventure to restore the balance of their world, which has been disrupted by a powerful enemy.

Vicky's Secret: A Novel

Yael Galiley — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:10:25 PDT

The purpose of this paper is to gain insight into the process of writing, illustrating, editing, and getting a book published. Included is analysis of Vicky’s Secret, a sample chapter, and synopses of the other chapters. Numerous drawn and digitally edited illustrations are interspersed throughout to reflect portions of the story visually. The practical approach led to a proficient understanding of creating illustrated fiction.

A Thread In Japan’s History: The Historical Journey Of Japanese Christianity to the Brink of Modern Japan

Rebecca Velker — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:03:35 PDT

A Jesuit missionary named Francis Xavier pioneered the Christian faith in Japan in 1549. Japan was open to the gospel, and many missionaries followed Francis Xavier. Japanese people from a wide range of social standings supported Christianity for a variety of reasons. The Tokugawa government soon viewed Christianity as a threat to the authority of the Japanese government. Japan persecuted the Christians and the Japanese church was driven underground. Over two hundred years later during the Meiji Restoration, Japan altered its policies towards the West and tolerated Christianity in Japan. Despite never being fully welcomed, the Christian belief resonated with many well-educated Japanese men. Some of the most well educated men in Japan became Christians and their work influenced the formation of Japan during a crucial time in its history. These men’s goal to develop Christianity in Japan helped shape Japan as a nation and develop Modern Japan.

A Review of Stretching Techniques and Their Effects on Exercise

Cassandra M. Bernhart — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:03:33 PDT

The role of flexibility in exercise performance is a widely debated topic in the exercise science field. In recent years, there has been a shift in the beliefs regarding traditional benefits and appropriate application of static stretching. Static stretching has previously been proposed to increase exercise performance and reduce the risk of injury, however recent research does not support this belief consistently and may even suggest conflicting viewpoints. Several types of stretching methods have also been promoted including proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching, AIS, and dynamic, and ballistic stretching. The role of flexibility in exercise performance continues to be researched with hopes to discover how these techniques affect exercise both acutely and long term. It is important to understand the effects of the various stretching types and determine when each is most appropriate to maximize human motion and performance. The purpose of this thesis is to focus on reviewing each major form of stretching and to provide the reader with the most current research supporting or negating their implementation in the health and fitness fields.

Cultural Influences on Accounting and Its Practices

Meredith Young — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:03:31 PDT

This thesis discusses various cultural aspects that have influenced accounting. Hofestede (1984) and Gray (1988) conducted studies and observations of the cultural dimensions and values that have contributed to culture and accounting research. National culture is broad in its influences, but affects the smallest aspects of society-even accounting. Accounting is also influenced by organizational culture, the overall environment in which a company functions. Next is ethics, an integral aspect of accounting, persuaded by the culture in which it is derived. Religion is more than a belief; it constitutes a way of life, involving unique practices and perspectives in accounting. Last, this paper will discuss how these cultural differences will impact the international convergence of accounting standards soon to come.

Malnutrition and Diseases Affecting the Children of Uganda

Crystal Brooke Baldwin — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:03:29 PDT

Every day there are children in underdeveloped countries, such as Uganda, who are struggling to survive on minimal food, money, and other resources. These children do not have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of a normal childhood because their main focus is on survival. Many of these children will die because of preventable disease and starvation that have resulted from the endless cycle of poverty and lack of education. Those who are lucky enough to survive must fight a daily battle to find the nutrients they need and to combat the diseases they may acquire. It is heartbreaking to know that the lives of so many children are being needlessly cut short due to circumstances beyond their control. If they were assisted, their self-sufficiency may increase and overall quality of life may be improved, including that of future generations. In order to better understand these concepts, this paper will focus on identifying the main health concerns affecting the children of Uganda, with a main focus on children <5 years old. The causes and effects of these health concerns will be explained to demonstrate the need for improved healthcare. This paper will also address ways to treat and prevent this growing problem including the benefits of improving healthcare.

The Challenges and Blessings of Missionary Nursing in Africa

Jordan E. Woosley — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:03:27 PDT

Nursing is a popular career choice in the twenty-first century, and there are many opportunities within the profession to serve. An American nurse has the ability to utilize nursing skills in Africa and share knowledge with the locals. The American nurse may face challenges when adapting to the African culture and healthcare but also may be blessed by the work and ministering to the people. The American nurse faces specific challenges such as educational differences, lack of facilities and equipment, unique diseases, and poor sanitation. In spite of these challenges, the American missionary nurse is able to grow through this experience, develop a stronger relationship with the Lord, and be blessed by the grateful attitude of the African people.

Pornography Addiction and Mental Health Disorders

Tabitha Cassidy — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 06:18:36 PDT

This study aims to understand the differences between mental health disorders in a sample of pornography users, addicts, and non-users. Participants in the study included males and females who visited a paraprofessional counseling center on a college campus (n=1048). Between non-users and users of pornography, one-way analysis of variance planned comparison results indicated that participants significantly differed in scores of Depression, Anxiety, and Global Severity Index as measured by the Brief Symptom Inventory 18 (BSI 18). Non-Suicidal Self-Injurious behaviors as measured by the Ottawa Self-Injury Inventory; and Grandiosity/Narcissism as measured by the Spiritual Assessment Inventory. Independent sample t-test scores indicated that self-reported pornography addicts and non-addicted pornography users only differed in scores of Somatization as measured by the BSI 18.

The Effects of Nursing Care on the Patient Experiencing a Stillborn Birth

Katherine Totten — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 06:18:34 PDT

Childbirth has the potential of being one of the most joyous and fulfilling experiences a woman goes through in her entire life. Being a mom, driving the kids to soccer practice, and sitting around the Christmas tree with the family can easily be seen as an ideal life. Conversely, the negative experiences with childbirth are rarely discussed. There is an overlooked category: moms who conceive but lose the baby in the womb. Not only are these women overlooked, but also the hospital care they receive proves inconsistent with the latest research. Nurses and doctors should be aware of the latest research showing the most effective to way to treat moms and dads who have just experienced a stillbirth. The immense responsibility of being present for the patient physically, emotionally, and spiritually should not be lost on the nurse. A woman is bringing both death and life into the world simultaneously. Whatever the cause of the premature death, the pain remains long after the tragic loss. Although the loss of a neonate is undoubtedly a delicate and uncomfortable situation, it is for these reasons this topic needs to be addressed.

Travesty of Trust: A Critical Look at Racial and Ethnic Discrimination in the Healthcare Setting

Thea A. Beaty — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 06:18:33 PDT

The purpose of this thesis is to review the overarching purpose of healthcare, examine race-related disparities in minority patient outcomes within specific fields of medical practice, and discuss whether these disparities are the result of racial discrimination within the clinical setting, or are due at least partially to genetic and environmental factors, followed by an examination of how cross-cultural education for healthcare professionals can be improved to equip medical personnel with the attitudes, knowledge, and skills necessary to provide effective care to a culturally diverse patient populace. The benefits of recruiting a culturally and linguistically diverse team of healthcare providers are also discussed. Review of literature seems to indicate that poor patient outcomes for minority groups are due at least in part to forms of discrimination in healthcare provision, and therefore academic initiatives to implement for current and future medical practitioners in order to address current racial disparities and discrimination in healthcare and improve health outcomes for minority patients are also examined.

A Study of the Musical Culture of the Algonquin Indigenous Peoples of North America

Corbin Clark — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 06:18:31 PDT

The study of the music of the indigenous peoples of North America has been a topic of research since the late nineteenth century. These studies have mainly focused on the American Indians that lived west of the Mississippi. The Native American groups that lived on the eastern border of North America, known as the Eastern Woodland American Indians, have received much less attention than these other groups. This project focuses on one of the groups associated with the Eastern Woodland tribes, the Algonquins. The purpose of this study is to research their musical culture by focusing on the musical instruments of the Algonquins, the general characteristics of the music of these native peoples, the activities and ceremonies associated with music and dance, and how the Algonquin musical tradition is being carried on today.

Celiac Disease and Neurological Symptoms

Lauren V. Cook — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 06:18:30 PDT

New research has revealed that Celiac disease, an autoimmune illness affecting the small intestine, has more ties with neurological side effects than once was thought. The classic and most well known presentation of Celiac disease is gastrointestinal, including symptoms such as abdominal pains, nausea, diarrhea, and flatulence. Researchers have more recently found a correlation between Celiac disease and neurological illnesses such as epilepsy, depression, dementia, and ADHD. Physician awareness of the disease and the neurological side of the illness should be heightened in order for patients to receive earlier diagnosis and a better quality of life. Because of the difficulty to diagnose this disease when the presentation is neurological, there is indication for mass screening programs to be implemented.