Bridgewater College, Photograph of President Warren D. Bowman smiling behind a pulpit, undated

Archival photograph from Bridgewater College Special Collectionshttps://digitalcommons.bridgewater.edu/b_last_name_individuals_photos/1005/thumbnail.jp

Bridgewater College, Photograph of Dr. Gary Adams watching an event, undated

Archival photograph from Bridgewater College Special Collectionshttps://digitalcommons.bridgewater.edu/a_last_name_individuals_photos/1035/thumbnail.jp

Bridgewater College, Photograph of Dr. Raymond Andes in his office, undated

Archival photograph from Bridgewater College Special Collectionshttps://digitalcommons.bridgewater.edu/a_last_name_individuals_photos/1044/thumbnail.jp

Using Chronopotentiometry to Explore the Effects of Chemical Additives on Electron Diffusion in Mesoporous Semiconductor Films

Solar energy plays a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change by converting sunlight into usable electricity and heat. While silicon-based solar cells remain the dominant technology, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) offer a cost-effective alternative by using semiconductors and light-absorbing materials. Although DSSCs have the potential to provide cost-effective solutions, their efficiency tends to be lower than that of silicon solar cells. They face significant challenges such as back electron transfer. This phenomenon occurs when injected electrons recombine with redox mediators or oxidized dyes, reducing the overall efficiency of the cell. To address this, we explored the effect of two additives – lithium ions (Li+) and 4-tert-butyl-pyridine (tBp) – on electron diffusion within unsensitized solar cells (USSCs). Lithium ions are thought to lower the energetic levels of trap states – areas within the material’s crystal structure that can capture and hold electrons – making it easier for electrons to be captured. Conversely, tBp can increase the energetic levels of the trap states, making it more difficult. We hypothesized that lowering energetic trap states can retain electrons for longer periods of time by preventing electron diffusion to higher energy neighboring acceptor states. Furthermore, to analyze these effects, chronopotentiometry was used to track the flow of electrons through the system. Experiments were conducted using a potentiostat, and the resulting data was analyzed in RStudio to observe the time-dependent voltage decay curves. This study aims to examine the influence of lithium ions and tBp on electron lifetimes and how these factors impact the overall efficiency of USSCs. Additionally, the difference in performance between TiO2 and ZrO2 was examined as well as exploring differences in the length of applied bias

Composition Honors Recital and Lecture

This project demonstrates compositional techniques and development. It provides a view on the writing process of musical compositions and an analysis on the different components of the pieces. The project included public speaking, where I spoke about each piece and different aspects of the pieces to listen for. A large portion of my role before the recital consisted of organizing musicians, creating a program, and writing my essay

Bridgewater College, Photograph of Dr. Raymond Andes at the Phonothon, undated

Archival photograph from Bridgewater College Special Collectionshttps://digitalcommons.bridgewater.edu/a_last_name_individuals_photos/1043/thumbnail.jp

Vol. 100, No. 1 | Spring/Summer 2025

Hands-On Learning, Real-World Successhttps://digitalcommons.bridgewater.edu/bridgewater_magazine/1373/thumbnail.jp

Bridgewater College, Photograph of President Warren D. Bowman at his desk, 1950s

Archival photograph from Bridgewater College Special Collectionshttps://digitalcommons.bridgewater.edu/b_last_name_individuals_photos/1043/thumbnail.jp

Burnout in Healthcare Professionals Caring for Patients with Neurocognitive Disorders

Burnout among healthcare professionals has become increasingly prevalent, particularly in long-term care settings where staff regularly interact with patients suffering from neurocognitive disorders such as dementia. This study investigates the psychological and physical toll on certified nursing assistants (CNAs), nurses, occupational therapists, and physical therapists who provide care in these challenging environments. Drawing on prior research and firsthand experience, the paper explores the symptoms, causes, and consequences of burnout, emphasizing how understaffing, high turnover, and the demanding nature of dementia care contribute significantly to caregiver fatigue. Patients with neurocognitive disorders often exhibit unpredictable, combative behaviors, which, though largely unintentional, place immense emotional and physical strain on caregivers. The study incorporates interviews with staff at a local nursing home to better understand how caregiving in such settings influences burnout. Key findings highlight a cycle in which burnout not only affects caregiver well-being but also diminishes the quality of patient care. The research underscores the need for increased awareness, institutional support, and practical interventions to retain healthcare staff and ensure sustainable, high-quality care for patients with neurocognitive disorders

The Effects of Interval and Constant Load Cycling on Cortisol and Testosterone Production

Testosterone is an anabolic-androgenic steroid released from the gonads when exercising. Additionally, cortisol is a catabolic hormone that is also released in response to the stress of exercise. Both hormones have been known to increase significantly following high-intensity exercise as compared to low-intensity exercise. However, more research needs to be done regarding the interval training effect on testosterone and cortisol levels. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to determine the hormonal response of testosterone and cortisol during interval versus constant load cycling. METHODS: Participants aged 19-45 years old will be recruited to participate in the study. Their initial visit will consist of performing a cycle ergometer VO2max test until failure. The next two visits are experimental trials where participants will perform a constant load and interval load cycling test. The interval load test will be a 30-minute cycle made up of 3-minute intervals between 40 and 80% of the participants VO2max. The constant load test will be a 30-minute trial at 60% of the participants VO2max for the entirety of the time. Before and after both experimental trials, saliva will be collected to analyze testosterone and cortisol concentrations using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). IMPLICATIONS: This study will provide insight regarding testosterone and cortisol’s response to exercise at various intensities. Understanding what intensities result in a greater increase of these hormones can enable the creation of exercise programs that promote muscle growth