Honors Theses

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10217/199040

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Open Access
Little blue
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2019) Friar, Keiko, author
This work is an undergraduate student honors thesis project, "Little Blue," a children's first chapter book (aimed at ages 9-11 years old) offering affirmations of worthiness. Purpose is to reach and affirm the experiences of children and readers with marginalized identities, since matrices of oppression manifest in everyday messaging that they are less than, invalid or unworthy in some way. "Little Blue" acts as a tool to get the conversation started on mental and emotional health at a young age.
Open Access
Kasooli sustainable product: developing sustainable health solutions
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Borchert, Phillip, author
This thesis is a business plan exploration of Kasooli, a venture-backed senior design project from Colorado State University's Scott College of Engineering, inspired by faculty member Robert Serunjogi. Kasooli aims to launch affordable, sustainable menstrual products made from corn fibers into the U.S. market, addressing environmental concerns and menstrual health needs. The paper examines market dynamics, consumer preferences, and operational strategies through primary research, customer discovery, expert interviews, and financial modeling. Key findings highlight the potential for eco-friendly, cost-effective hygiene solutions to bridge the gap between traditional and premium products. This study outlines a strategic roadmap for Kasooli's market entry, emphasizing its potential to drive innovation in sustainable hygiene solutions.
Open Access
Surviving the shift: a practical handbook for night shift healthcare workers
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Clothier, Claire, author
"Surviving the Shift: A Practical Handbook for Night Shift Healthcare Workers" is a comprehensive guidebook that provides information and guidance to those struggling with the lifestyle of night shift. It serves to highlight the adversity that healthcare workers face while working night shift. While examining extensive, peer-reviewed research, I focused on eight problematic topics associated with working night shift including sleep disruptions, diet and nutrition, exercise, gastrointestinal problems, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, hormonal imbalances, and social isolation. To select these topics, I familiarized myself with general research on night shift and compiled a list of the recurring issues workers face. In my digital guidebook, I introduced each topic, included scientific research, and defined important terms and concepts. Additionally, I critically analyzed the role of night shift in amplifying these common problems. By interpreting this scientific information as it related directly to night shift workers, I formulated a list with several tips to combat the negative impacts. At the close of my guidebook, I provided benefits of night shift, a sample 24-hour routine, as well as an interview with a registered nurse. Through all of this research and construction of my Honors Thesis, I determined that the underlying culprit for most of the physical and mental issues linked to night shift is the disruption to the body's circadian rhythm.
Open Access
Inclusive conservation: an analysis of behavior change conservation projects in the Congo as a framework for application to Myanmar
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Paluszek, Laila, author
Conservation initiatives strive to conserve biodiversity around the world. While efforts adamantly prioritize the successful conservation of endangered species and their habitats, certain strategies can overlook the secondary impacts on nearby human communities. Behavior-change conservation (BCC) integrates humanitarian theories of thought into conservation projects to support both ambassador species populations and the communities they coexist with. This literature review analyzes recent behavior-change conservation projects throughout the Congo region and evaluates their success. The findings suggest the region's utilization of BCC can act as a model for developing similar projects throughout Myanmar. The analysis considered humanitarian and biological aspects of each country. The similarities between these aspects of the two regions indicate the benefits Myanmar may experience once it utilizes BCC theories and projects. Future projects in Myanmar should further examine successful behavior-change conservation projects in the Congo and other regions of the world to develop adapted strategies for implementation across the nation.
Open Access
A reflection on the rooibos tea industry: empty tea bags
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Peek, Molly, author
Tea is a popular beverage enjoyed by tea drinkers in all corners of the globe. There are many variations including green, black, white, and herbal, among hundreds of others, all of which contain special ingredients sourced from global regions. While a great deal of tea ingredients are grown across Asia, specifically in India and China, specific roots, leaves, and spices are also found in South America and Africa. One such plant, known as Rooibos, is uniquely found only within a specific region within South Africa, called the Cederberg Region. With the entire supply of this plant concentrated in just one region, there are concerns about the protection and longevity of the rooibos crops. When a global supply comes all from just one place, forming a bottleneck, there are several complex sourcing issues that could arise if that supply is diminished. This foundational document will focus on the rooibos industry, how it is grown and harvested, the environmental, economic, and social concerns related to rooibos and South Africa, and ongoing solutions to these challenges. In addition to this foundational document, my thesis is presented in a visual medium, a world map created out of recycled tea bags. The piece highlights the scale of the globe compared to the small land area from which rooibos originates. It is also made using sustainable materials, highlighting the importance of global sustainability initiatives. I chose to produce a fine arts project for my thesis because I believe that the visual medium is an approachable way to introduce and represent complex issues. Current research in the art field has shown that contemporary art today, more than ever, is a catalyst for activism and political identification (Strehovec, 2020). The rooibos industry is plagued by several challenges, one being recognition. A visual representation of industry challenges via the tea map allows viewers to find intrigue in an industry and learn about something that they may not have encountered previously. I think that the interconnections of business, art, and social science in this piece make it approachable to a wide audience, prompting thought and curiosity on a multi-faceted situation.
Open Access
Characterization and molecular profiling of canine cancer cell lines
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Citarella, Erin, author; Das, Sunetra, author; Idate, Rupa, author; Duval, Dawn, author
The advent of personalized medicine promises to revolutionize the treatment of cancer but first requires the extensive characterization of a wide range of tumors in order to build an effective framework. Canine cancer cell lines share many similarities to human cancer cell lines and are therefore a valuable resource for expanding the foundation of knowledge that personalized medicine builds off. Utilizing PCR and Sanger sequencing, the presence of a frameshift mutation in exon 20 of the STAT2 gene was confirmed to be conserved across three canine thyroid carcinoma cell lines while mutations in MUC4 and RB1 were not confirmed. Growth inhibition assays of numerous cell lines with Trametinib confirmed the utility of the MPAS in predicting MAPK-inhibitor sensitivity and identification of outlier cell lines. Growth inhibition assays with TK216 lend support for the hypothesis that TK216 works through a more generalized cytotoxic mechanism than first believed, and the reliability of Alamar Blue vs. Incucyte protocols for growth inhibition assays was assessed with Incucyte proving more reliable. Overall, these findings expand the current understanding of the molecular nature of cancer and provide further data for personalized medicine to incorporate to improve future cancer outcomes in both dogs and humans.
Open Access
Senior design project: test fixture for a lenticular offset composite hinge
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Romanowicz, Kaitlyn, author
My team and I developed a test method to verify the torque specification of a Lenticular Offset Composite (LOC) hinge. This engineering senior design project was sponsored by Opterus R&D, a company that specializes in deployable spacecraft structures. These hinges are typically mounted in deployable solar array configurations, so research was done to orient to the market demand. A material understanding of the hinge was developed by exploring how high strain composite materials store energy as they deform. After developing this understanding, the previous and current test methods were evaluated to guide my team’s prototype iterations. The final design is a test fixture that improves the user interface when compared to the current method, accommodates a variety of hinge geometries, and mimics the behavior of simulated LOC hinge data. My two main roles throughout the project were to ensure that my team was on track for all deliverables, and machine half of the custom aluminum components for the final product. I gained valuable experience in project management, used many skills that I’ve developed throughout my degree program, and now embody the confidence to start my career as an engineer.
Open Access
Harvest moon: a work in progress
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Campbell, Ava, author
The primary aim of this thesis focuses on exploration. I have never attempted a novel-length writing project, and while I knew it was impossible to accomplish that goal in a semester, I wanted to explore my ideas and become more comfortable with the process. I used researching, outlining, and writing as modes of exploration in which I discovered the themes and characters central to my novel. Through these processes, I came to understand the core significance of my work better than I had before. In a few words, my novel deals with themes surrounding femininity, desire, power, emotionality, and the human body. While my work could be considered genre fiction, specifically fantasy fiction, these themes solidify its significance in modern literature. My thesis afforded me an opportunity to discover why my work was significant through feedback, revision, and execution. The progress I have made this semester constitutes a solid foundation of content that I will continue to build on after graduation.
Open Access
In the footsteps of another: the mirror neuron network behind empathy and imitation
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Unsell, Brooke, author
Considering the actions of good Samaritans who risk their lives for strangers, can we develop a scientific explanation for their risky altruism? Using the story of my grandmother, who helped a French Foreign Legion soldier escape Algeria, as my prime example, I explored the connection between mirror neurons and selfless acts. I delivered my conclusions in the style of a scientific article inspired by Gerald Callahan’s "Chimera" to be comprehensible for those outside of the scientific community. The main topic, mirror neurons, were found to exist within various regions of our brains as a network that is responsible for specific motor and empathic tasks. They are stimulated during goal-oriented movements, such as picking up food, and when watching another mimic or perform a familiar movement. These motor triggers can also activate their empathic function of processing others' emotions as our own, giving us a feeling of empathy. However, mirror neurons do not make up the entire picture of why we have empathy and commit selfless acts. Linking my newfound knowledge of mirror neurons back to the tale of my grandmother, I found a new hidden reason among many in her decision to help save a stranger's life.
Open Access
A comparative analysis of sexual and reproductive healthcare across the United States, Spain, and South Africa
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) McLain, Adelaide, author
The aim of this study was to identify the main causes for negative sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes within the United States. The sexual and reproductive healthcare system of the United States was compared with that of Spain and South Africa. Health insurance barriers, as well as inconsistent SRH education, were identified as two major sources for poor SRH outcomes in the USA. Telemedicine, nationally mandated SRH education, subsidized SRH resources, and the implementation of new frameworks were discussed as possible solutions.
Open Access
Resilient roots: sustainable landscape design for Colorado's Front Range residences
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Mosbarger, Olivia, author
My Honors Thesis, Resilient Roots: Sustainable Landscape Design for Colorado's Front Range Residences, is an accumulation of the skills that I have learned in my landscape design studios throughout my time here at Colorado State University, as well as the addition of knowledge that I have gained in my horticulture, irrigation, entomology, and turfgrass studies. Specifically, I focused on sustainability in Western residential landscapes and how each of these topics (horticulture, irrigation, entomology, turfgrass, etc) can be utilized to help create a more drought-tolerant environment through design. I designed a construction plan for an ideal sustainable residential landscape, which can act as a guide for what methods, plants, and materials are beneficial for the Front Range’s climate and natural resources. I also designed an irrigation plan, a planting schedule, and a 3D model to best represent how this plan will look and work for the clients.
Open Access
Warrior Resiliency Program: warrior ethos for non-combative roles in the U.S. Air Force
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Imfeld, Caitlyn, author
This reference guide is geared towards members and leadership of the U.S. Air Force but may be applied to other military branches and within civilian contexts as well. It provides a foundation for so-called "Warrior Resiliency Programs" that are designed to promote physical excellence and combat capability in airmen, especially those in non-combative career fields. These Warrior Resiliency Programs are primarily based in physical training and practical skills, with components of mental and spiritual resiliency integrated as well. The guide offers academic backing for each component included in the program, a detailed structure for beginning a Warrior Resiliency Program on a military installation, and a plethora of tips and resources for more information.
Open Access
The brachial plexus 3D educational model
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Napoli, Kaitlin, author
There are a variety of types of brachial plexus injuries that impact the general population, through the limitation or elimination of everyday function. The degree of injury associated with these conditions is dependent on the site and extent of the injury, including ruptures, avulsions and more. The brachial plexus is an elaborate network of nerves associated with the motor and sensory innervation of the upper limbs. The plexus's intricate nature is derived from its anatomical structure and composition of ventral rami, trunks, divisions, cords, and terminal branches. These terminal branches include the ulnar nerve, musculocutaneous nerve, median nerve, axillary nerve, and radial nerve. Given the complexity of the brachial plexus and the potential life-altering injuries medical professionals encounter, it is important for pre-health students to understand the anatomical elements of this major structure. The use of models in anatomy education is an incredible resource that promotes spatial understanding, improves retention and exam performances as well as overall engagement of students. This creative thesis will enhance student comprehension of the brachial plexus and the spatial understanding of structures within this plexus.
Open Access
Read: my life through books
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Privat, Brooke, author
What we as people read influence our lives in many ways. Through the examination of psychological and social science literature as well as my own life experiences, I uncover some of these impacts. Our beliefs, interests, and even career paths can be shaped by books. Not only did I demonstrate this to readers, but I also discovered it for myself. Through reading many memoirs and writing my own personal narrative, I learn and write about the universality of many human experiences and gain empathy and understanding for people with different stories.
Open Access
Pre-existing knowledge and interests in microbiology
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Tateyama, Emily, author
A survey was conducted to ask undergraduate students at Colorado State University what they know about microbiology and what they want to know. This project includes human research, meaning an application was completed and sent to the Institutional Review Board for approval. The survey included questions regarding general microbiology, immunology, bacteria, viruses, and vaccines. Each category had questions determining previous knowledge and potential topics of interest students could select. The results of the survey showed varied levels of knowledge which was expected. Some students had received previous knowledge, some from a previous class. However, there were a significant number of students that had very little knowledge of microbiology and had misunderstandings of information. A pamphlet was created to inform students about basic microbiology, focusing on information they should know, such as how vaccines function.
Open Access
Setting the table: cultivating Fort Collins community health through accessible food security solutions
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Vande Plasse, Addison, author
Food security is a cornerstone of public health, yet many individuals in Fort Collins face significant barriers to accessing nutritious food. My Honors Thesis, Setting the Table: Cultivating Fort Collins Community Health Through Accessible Food Security Solutions, addresses these challenges by enhancing the visibility and accessibility of local food pantries. This project involved creating a user-friendly website and distributing posters with QR codes to connect underserved populations to essential resources. Through these efforts, I aimed to reduce stigma, improve awareness, and support chronic health condition management by increasing access to nutritious food. Using data collected from the Fort Collins community and the FMC Food Pantry, this project identified barriers such as lack of awareness, accessibility issues, and the perceived stigma of using food pantries. The website includes comprehensive information on pantry services, tailored to meet diverse needs, such as dietary restrictions and disability accommodations. By October 2024, the project demonstrated measurable impact, with QR code scans averaging 17 per day and increased community engagement. This thesis highlights the critical role of food pantries in public health interventions, bridging the gap between food insecurity and health equity. By addressing food access as a social determinant of health, this work contributes to reducing disparities and fostering a healthier, more resilient community in Fort Collins. The project also inspired initiatives like a dental supply drive, underscoring the interconnectedness of food security and overall wellness. My ultimate goal is to apply these insights in my future career as a public health dentist, integrating health equity principles into comprehensive care for underserved populations.
Open Access
Leveraging culturally diverse representation to enhance brand awareness among Hispanic women: a study of the Miami Dolphins and Denver Broncos
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Rumion, Kealoha, author
The impact of culturally diverse representation through a brand on Hispanic women for the Miami Dolphins and Denver Broncos: This study examines how culturally diverse representation influences brand awareness among Hispanic women aged 18 to 35, focusing on the marketing strategies of the Miami Dolphins and Denver Broncos. Through in-depth interviews (n = 5) and a focus group (n =10), I explored emotional connections, media consumption habits, gender representation, and the impact of authenticity in football advertising. The findings reveal that cultural representation alone is insufficient without actionable inclusion and tailored marketing efforts. Participants expressed that effective advertising should authentically reflect their identity and values while avoiding stereotypes. The lack of Latina representation in football ads and the sport's male-dominated culture emerged as barriers to engagement. Comparing the Miami Dolphins and Denver Broncos, this research highlights how their community outreach and brand advocacy efforts align – or fail to align – with the preferences of Hispanic women in this age range. The results note the importance of integrating cultural nuances into marketing strategies to foster emotional connection, loyalty, and advocacy among underrepresented audiences. This study contributes to understanding how football organizations can navigate diverse markets while driving inclusivity and representation in sports.
Open Access
Effects of patch size and land cover on body size of bee communities in Denver parks
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Capossere, Kaidan, author
With many bee species at risk of extinction and others suffering population declines, green spaces can be a valuable tool to conserve bees in developed areas. Bees are highly diverse, so species with certain traits might thrive in some parks while others will be more successful in parks with different characteristics. Therefore, research is necessary to examine how various park traits affect the type of bees that can live in them. This study looked at how body size of bee communities in urban parks was affected by park size, proportion of green space, and proportion of natural vegetation. We collected 3193 bees from 25 parks in Denver in summer 2023 and measured intertegular distance in fall 2024 to represent body size. We hypothesized that community weighted mean body size would decrease as park size, green space, and natural vegetation cover increased as larger bees are able to fly farther to obtain food, allowing them to survive in lower quality habitat. Instead, we found no relationship between body size and green space (p=0.64) and only a weak correlation between natural vegetation cover and body size (p=0.27). We also found no relationship between park size and body size when analyzing the full data set (p=0.32). However, when the two largest parks were removed from the analysis, community weighted mean body size increased logarithmically as park size increased (p=0.06). These results suggest that vegetation and land cover have little impact on the size of bees present in urban parks, but park size does have an impact, with smaller bees being more prevalent in smaller parks.
Open Access
Identifying priority sites for mosquito control to protect Maui's endemic forest birds
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Gulnac, Keana M., author
Infectious disease is a major emerging cause of species decline as rising global temperatures drive mosquito vectors into cooler, higher elevation habitats that were previously disease-free. The effects of these range shifts are particularly concerning for endemic forest birds on the island of Maui, Hawai'i, where seldom habitat remains at these altitudes. Fortunately, preliminary applications of BTi larvicide have been successful in killing mosquito larvae within treatment areas, and plans to continue application along with other forms of mosquito control are being implemented. Due to the novelty of its use in conservation, this study identifies the suitability of sites for the aerial application of BTi to control mosquito populations and reduce the transmission of avian malaria among Maui's endemic forest birds. Spatial data on mosquito larval densities, bird populations, and environmental conditions are analyzed to create predictions of where BTi aerial application might be most effective, with areas managed by The Nature Conservancy and the federal and state government scoring particularly high in suitability. The findings of this study are intended for academic purposes and must be reviewed by experts in the field if used to inform management decisions.
Open Access
The influence of artificial intelligence in the healthcare space
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Nemeth, Blake, author

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