Honors Theses

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

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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
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
A summarization of the gender dynamics within the field of veterinary medicine
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Host, Elizabeth, A., author
The field of veterinary medicine has experienced a historic, rapid feminization while in many ways remaining stereotypically masculine in the attitudes and actions favored among practicing veterinarians. The speed of this shift has generated interest in how the field of veterinary medicine and the people who work within it will be affected by this demographic change. Despite the feminine shift, the field continues to be afflicted with persistent gender biases and discrimination, which greatly impact women's career experiences through disparities in pay, career advancement, work-life balance, and overall job satisfaction. This literature review explores the intersection between the increasing female representation and long-lived gender inequities that exist within veterinary medicine. Through an analysis of studies utilizing surveys, interviews, and statistical data, this review examines the ways in which female veterinarians and students navigate these challenges as well as suggests areas for improvement that could generate increased gender equity and a greater of belonging for women.
Open Access
A visual exploration into the natural and urban landscapes of Colorado
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024-11-22) Gibbons, Jenna, author
This honors thesis aims to educate individuals on the Colorado landscape through the unique, personal lens of a landscape architect. Additionally, this honors thesis intends to be a personal archive and portfolio piece. The project includes explanations and examples of key landscape architecture terms such as landscape, natural landscapes, and urban landscapes, as well as an investigation into three case studies of urban and natural Colorado landscapes. The photo archive at the end serves as a reference as well as a personal portfolio.
Open Access
An analysis of common calcaneal tendon disruption in canids
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024-12-13) Foster, Sophie, author
My senior honors thesis project, "An Analysis of Common Calcaneal Tendon Disruption in Canids," aims to demonstrate knowledge of a prevalent condition seen in veterinary medicine. This project consists of a literature review analyzing common calcaneal tendon disruption in canines that describes the anatomy, etiology, prevalence, symptoms, diagnostics, and associated treatments. To accompany the literature review are two skeletal articulations showcasing a real-life example of the canine anatomy relevant to this condition. One articulation is the caudal end (or back end) and a canine, which includes the right and left pelvic limbs, the pelvis, and the lumbar and caudal vertebrae. Another articulation of a canine pelvic limb was created as a model to imitate the common calcaneal tendon and demonstrate an avulsion, or detachment, from its bony insertion point. This model will be given to the animal anatomy lab at CSU to assist with student learning. Lastly, a presentation highlighting all of the information and material gathered throughout this project was created and shared with faculty. After completing this project, I have become much more knowledgeable on common calcaneal tendon disruptions in canines and more familiar with the process of articulating skeletal models. I am very grateful for this opportunity and all the experiences that have led me to this moment!
Open Access
An application of Catholic symbolism featuring Blessed Chiara Badano, Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, and Saint Teresa of Calcutta
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Harmon, Caroline, author
This paper explores Catholic symbolism as it relates to the portraits I have created of three remarkable individuals: Blessed Chiara "Luce" Badano, Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, and Saint Teresa of Calcutta. It opens with a broad discussion of the historical relationship between art and the Catholic Church, tracing how artistic expression has been intrinsically linked to the faith since its inception. This examination encompasses the use of visual arts in liturgy, the role of artists as conveyors of theological concepts, and the way sacred imagery can shape the spiritual lives of churchgoers. Following this historical context, the paper presents concise and detailed biographies of the three figures. It delves into the lives of Chiara, Pier Giorgio, and Teresa, highlighting their backgrounds, key life events, and the defining moments that led them to be recognized as models of holiness. For instance, it discusses Chiara's vibrant faith in her battle with illness, Pier Giorgio's enthusiastic commitment to social justice and outreach, and Teresa's profound dedication to the poorest of the poor. The analysis continues by examining how the symbols depicted in the portraits of these holy individuals—such as a grapevine and wheat, flowers, and a cross-anchor—reflect their values and spiritual journeys. Ultimately, this work highlights the profound connection between art and the Catholic faith and the lived experiences of these three saints, illustrating how their stories continue to resonate within the Catholic community today.
Open Access
An end to the cycle: supporting resilience in children of adults with mood disorders
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Whitmarsh, Taylor, author
In this literature review, I synthesize various relevant articles related to risk and resilience for children of adults with mood disorders. Additionally, to understand real world applications of my findings, I included sections from an interview that I conducted with licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Chelsea Kline. To begin my review, I argue that parental Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder contribute to cumulative risk and disrupt family functioning. Children of an adult with a mood disorder may be exposed to increased stress due to marital conflict, impaired interactions between the parent and child, chaotic household organization, and parentification. Research supports that children from this population are more likely to experience their own emotional and behavioral problems. Though children from this population are vulnerable, I spend a significant portion of my review discussing protective factors internal and external to the family. These factors interact with risk factors to promote positive outcomes. I discuss implications to consider when designing interventions including screening parents for mental health conditions, emphasizing improvement within family interactions, educating families on mental illness, approaching parental mental illness from a systemic theoretical background, and providing opportunities for autonomy to children when developmentally appropriate. In my review, I acknowledge the complexity of the inheritance of mental health conditions, and I call for an ecological systemic approach to expand the field’s current understanding of parenting with a mood disorder.
Open Access
An overview of the pathogenesis, etiologies, and treatment of myocarditis
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Danna, Colleen, author
Myocarditis is a rare heart condition that has an extensive range of causes, various forms of disease development, and a diverse clinical presentation across age groups. In recent years, there has been a global rise in myocarditis incidences, prompting a more in-depth investigation of this condition by researchers across public and private institutions. Despite these research efforts, there is still a wealth of information yet to be uncovered. It is the intent of this thesis to provide a comprehensive overview of the condition as a whole, with discussion focused on the primary means of diagnostic testing and the occurrence of myocarditis worldwide. Special attention is also given to the categorization of the various subtypes based upon their respective etiologies, which overlap at times. Following this, there is discussion of the biological mechanisms by which myocarditis develops, along with the current treatment options available for patients. This literature review was achieved via compiling information across numerous peer-reviewed journal articles and clinical case studies.
Open Access
Analysis of tyrosine kinase inhibitor responses in mixed murine EML4-ALK-driven lung tumors to define dominance of their tumor immune microenvironments
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Prosceno, Isabella, author
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. In recent studies, successes in precision oncology with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have yielded marked and durable tumor responses in tumor subsets defined by oncogenic mutations in the receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) EGFR, ALK, ROS1, and RET. Despite this progress, most patients show a partial response and these therapies fail to completely eliminate "drug tolerant persisters" also known as "residual disease". Thus, new therapeutic strategies are needed as presently there are no approved therapies after EGFR mutant lung cancer progression on the 3rd generation TKI, Osimertinib. This desperate need for additional precision therapies is crucial for 2nd and 3rd line therapies in oncogene-driven lung cancer patients. Anti-PD1/PD-L1 agents are approved treatments in lung cancers that disrupt tumor-mediated immune suppression. However, these drugs are ineffective in patients whose tumors bear oncogenic RTK genes despite evidence that adaptive immune cells contribute to the anti-cancer activity of TKIs in these cancers. In other words, immune checkpoint inhibitors are not able to be utilized. The Nemenoff and Heasley labs of University of Colorado Anschutz have generated a panel of murine EML4-ALK cell lines (EA1, EA2) that can be orthotopically implanted in immune competent mice. In order to address the question of immune dominance within a mixed EML4-ALK tumor, a project will deploy mixtures of EA1 and EA2 cell lines to intentionally establish heterogeneous tumors and assess the resulting immune microenvironment and the Alectinib response. The lab has generated EA1 and EA2 cells that incorporate specific fluorescent tags, allowing the assessment of each population in mice. In studying heterogeneous lung tumors composed of clones that avidly recruit anti-tumorigenic T cells and clones that recruit immune suppressive cells (neutrophils), we imagine that three different possibilities may be observed. Complete results are not available due to the experiment being ongoing, but it is hypothesized that the microenvironment of EA1 will suppress that of EA2's. This result will show only a partial response to Alectinib.
Open Access
Applying stress recovery theory: outdoor intervention for dementia agitation reduction in memory care homes
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Guinee, Amelie, author
This paper serves as a part-literature review, part-explorative analysis on methods, specifically outdoor exposure, that may reduce agitation experienced by dementia patients. Agitation is reportedly the most common symptom displayed by dementia patients in memory care facilities, which puts significant strain on both the patients and caregivers. Yet, interventions to control and reduce this agitation are still relatively unknown. I hope to compare heart rate variability (HRV) metrics on healthy older adults who have spent time in nature, virtual reality, and indoor conditions to determine whether time spent outdoors promotes stress recovery, a paradigm known as the Stress Recovery Theory. I will use these findings on healthy older adults to inform likely patterns in dementia patients living in memory homes. I specifically hope to understand if implementing certain outdoor-driven shifts in spatial, environmental, or technological designs in memory care facilities may further promote reduced agitation.
Open Access
Avian Aspergillosis: experiences in raptor rehabilitation
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Procopio, Ally, author
Raptors, also called the birds of prey, are a group of birds, including eagles, hawks, falcons, owls, and vultures, which are threatened with declining populations and extinction globally. Commonly found at the highest trophic level, raptors are important top down regulators in ecosystems, helping to manage prey populations by acting as predators and controlling disease and aiding in nutrient recycling by acting as scavengers. Because of their importance in ecosystem health, and in providing valuable ecosystem services to humans, raptor conservation and rehabilitation is an important field. Rehabilitation centers assist raptors that are sick or injured, allowing them to recover so that they may be released, helping prevent the loss of that individual from the population. A large threat to raptors in rehabilitation programs is the fungal respiratory infection Aspergillosis. Aspergillosis is a zoonotic disease with high mortality rates that affects a wide range of animals, however birds, especially raptors in rehabilitation programs, have one of the highest risks of infection. This thesis acts as a literature review for avian aspergillosis, highlighting its importance in rehabilitation and conservation of raptors. It details the risk factors of infection, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the disease. In addition, it addresses the emergence of azole resistance in the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus from a One Health perspective, highlighting the connection between birds, the spread of resistant strains through the environment, and the potential for human infection. In addition, it includes a reflection on time spent working in raptor rehabilitation.
Open Access
Avian biodiversity and abundance at the CSU Mountain Campus: an acoustic monitoring study
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024-12-13) Doorack, Emily, author
The research conducted for this thesis and the overarching project encompassing it measured the biodiversity of avian species present at the CSU Mountain Campus through auditory data collection. We deployed auditory recording devices at the beginning of the summer of 2024 and allowed them to record data on the calls of avian species present across the campus until the end of the summer. We found that the standing forest habitat of mixed conifers had the highest amount of call activity, but the lowest amount of unique calls associated with it. However, the devices deployed in the riparian and the burn stand habitat zones had much higher diversity and unique species despite having a lower volume of recorded calls. Because unique species were found throughout the campus and there was a high number and diversity of calls at each of the three habitat types, we encourage future management and conservation of the CSU Mountain Campus to incorporate all three of these habitat types into land management practices. This is of extreme importance as the campus continues to grow and usage of the trails through these habitat types increases, potentially affecting the avian populations present.
Open Access
Beyond the game: understanding the neuropathology and enduring impacts of chronic traumatic encephalopathy
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024-12-13) Lovejoy, Mindy, author
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by aggregation of phosphorylated tau as well as astrogliosis. Currently, CTE can only be diagnosed post-mortem and is most likely to be found in former professional athletes, especially in contact sports. However, military veterans and domestic violence victims may also suffer from this disease, increasing the prevalence. CTE is correlated to the number of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or subconcussive impacts received, usually in childhood or adolescence. Mild TBI induces mechanisms to regain homeostasis which include a hypermetabolic state, increased intracellular calcium, and inflammatory signaling molecules in the acute phase. After the acute phase, all of these proteins and mechanisms are downregulated to create depressed neuronal signaling, neuronal death, and glial cell pathology. The immune response to mTBI causes a permeable blood-brain barrier (BBB) which leads to further neuroinflammation and further vascular injury. Post-mortem studies on brains with CTE show progressive aggregation of phosphorylated-tau neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), diffuse axonal injury (DAI), and accumulations of thread-like astrocytes. Gross cerebral atrophy, widening of the ventricles, and wider sulcal depths are also indicative of CTE diagnosis. The McKee Staging Scheme allows for characterization and comparison of varying severities of CTE between individuals. These changes in brain chemistry can be seen through behavioral, motor, and memory symptoms in patients, similar to those in Alzheimer's Disease. A common symptom of CTE is abnormal mood changes which include apathy, depression, and aggression. The NFTs of p-tau have neurotoxic effects and destabilize microtubules. Astrocyte pathology also leads to decreased gliotransmitter release and therefore fewer neuronal depolarizations. Due to plasticity of the brain, this may lead to neuronal death and pruning. Though there are no conclusive results of the mechanisms which make TBI or repetitive head injury (RHI) transform into the neurodegenerative disease, research into connections between the two is ongoing. Chronic neuroinflammation, a permeable BBB, and an autoimmune response may contribute to the pathophysiology and progression of CTE. Currently, researchers are working to find a way to diagnose CTE before patient death. So far, blood-based biomarkers demonstrate the most promising possibilities. Drawbacks of blood-based biomarkers, such as lack of protein specificity, still exist. The studies reviewed in this paper highlight significant findings in current academic research, identify those most at risk for development of CTE, and suggest possible modes of CTE development after TBI or RHI. The findings demonstrate the importance of education and prevention in youth sports and demand major sports organizations to take responsibility for the health and safety of their athletes. The data also finds that future research will be critical for diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for patients with CTE.
Open Access
Building a crisis communication plan for sports organizations: an analysis of the USA Gymnastics sexual abuse scandal
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024-11-15) Dalton, Chandler, author
Not every organization will experience a crisis, but every organization should plan and prepare for one. Without a crisis plan, an organization can find its image in jeopardy if suitable steps are not followed. This thesis assesses the 2016 USA Gymnastics sexual abuse scandal involving nearly 100 athletes that caused catastrophic damage to the brand’s image, and through this analysis, the missteps and corrections within its crisis are broken down through elements of various crisis communication theories. Certain elements of USA Gymnastics such as culture, leadership, and responses will be examined to establish why the result was detrimental, and through theory review, it will be determined how severely crisis communication theories can hurt or help an organization’s image. By exploring the models of the situational crisis communication theory, stealing thunder, contingency theory, and image repair theory, this analysis will expose the depths of these frameworks and how their application can contribute to an organization’s response and relationship with its stakeholders, the public, and the media.
Open Access
Change management for small business in practice
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024-11-05) Sanchez, Miyana, author
To explore the effectiveness of change management, I tested a sample of 20 employees' resistance to change (RTC) from a small business in practice. The small business is family-owned, local to Colorado, and was established in 2008. Throughout the organization, employees are in a range of roles, with a total of 8 being a part of administrative functions and 12 in manufacturing. This study analyzes how change is managed and identifies key factors influencing small businesses' willingness to adopt new practices.
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
Commuter student housing: how to improve basic needs services for off-campus students
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024-11-06) Deal, Brock, author
This thesis primarily focuses on online off-campus housing resources offered across various universities. It analyzes three different resource systems: Rent College Pads, Off-Campus Partners, and internally run systems like the one from Ohio State University. The overarching result is that most of these systems offer the same resources. Rent College Pads offers more customizability and specific features, while Off-Campus Partners is more well-known and linked to other large housing platforms. The thesis concludes by providing recommendations from the Off-Campus Life office at Colorado State University on how they could better serve their off-campus student population.
Open Access
Cynomys summer: a photojournalistic reflection and data analysis of an ongoing prairie dog plague study
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Ewing, Matthew, author
In my thesis, I provide a photojournalistic account of my experiences working on a research project. The project is working to better understand genetic resistance to the plague (Yersinia pestis) in Black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus). Throughout the summer, I used my photography skills to photograph the various species that rely on the prairie dogs and document aspects of our research. I showcase these photos in my thesis, while providing research based context to prairie dog ecology and our research. I also analyzed prairie dog growth rates in juveniles between sexes, and found no significant differences between males and females.
Open Access
Edible justice: exploring cultural inclusivity, medicinal eating, and access in contemporary food systems
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024-12) Elliott, Gabriella Eileen Akitwi, author
As the global push for food security continues, food advocates increasingly look towards justice scholars for insights into the multiple facets of oppression that reinstate food insecurity as one of the most widespread injustices today's contemporary audiences face. Alternative food systems spring up in response to the interdisciplinary harm caused by the current capitalist food regime, though still embedded in ideologies of whiteness, settler-colonialism, and neoliberalism. This paper explores the effects of pervasive whiteness as an embedded statute of alternative food systems and how cultural inclusion (or lack there of) shows up in alternative and emergency food access spaces like food banks and food rescues, contributing to the maintenance of whiteness and therefor discounting medicinal eating as a traditional culinary practice of the non-Western world. This thesis advocates for the implementation of tangible cultural inclusion like spices and universal staples (rice, teas, etc..) within alternative food access points to better cater to racial and ethnic minorities, preserving cultural normalcy in high stigma environments like food banks/rescues.
Open Access
Effects of fetal exposure to drugs: systematic review
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Bankes, Julia, author
This paper explores the long-term effects of fetal drug exposure on individuals, examining the implications for cognitive, physical, and social development. This paper reviews existing literature to consolidate an understanding of the effects of in-utero drug exposure. Prenatal exposure to substances such as opioids, alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs adversely affects neurodevelopment creating cognitive challenges and behavioral disorders. The paper also discusses the stages of fetal development, the types of substances commonly involved, and the physiological mechanisms by which these drugs impact fetal growth. The findings underscore the importance of informed interventions and holistic treatment approaches for mothers and infants affected by drug exposure, aiming to enhance developmental outcomes and reduce societal stigma. This paper ultimately calls for further research into effective care strategies and the development of supportive frameworks for affected families.

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