Cluster-Agnostic Line Detection for Computer Vision

A core challenge for autonomous robots is implementing computer vision techniques to detect navigable spaces around the robot and to differentiate navigable spaces from non-navigable ones. In this project, we develop a line detection algorithm using clusters of points interpreted as lines, which indicate the edges of the navigable space for our robot. This algorithm, combined with open-source keypoint extraction techniques, theoretically enables a robot to see the edges of its navigable space, a critical first step in pathfinding. Importantly, this algorithm is durable even when the number of lines in the original image is unknown. The algorithm is also relatively lightweight, relying only on a video stream and no other sensors

St. Peter's Home Health Care Emergency Room(ER) Visit Optimization

St. Peter’s Health is one of the largest health systems in Montana and is dependent on Medicare to provide quality healthcare to the community. Unnecessary emergency room (ER) visits from patients out of the Home Health program (patients cared for in their homes) can lead to significant losses of Medicare reimbursements. We explore the problem of unnecessary ER visits from Home Health patients using the Six Sigma (6σ) methodology. Six Sigma (6σ) helps businesses improve processes and reduce defects through D-M-A-I-C (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control). Our goal is to identify and address the key factors contributing to preventable ER admissions, ultimately improving patient care and resource allocation

The Effects of Alpha-GPC on Memory and Locomotion in Drosophila melanogaster

Alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine (Alpha-GPC) is a choline containing supplement that claims to enhance memory formation, improve cognitive function, and increase locomotion. It is believed to do this by supporting the synthesis of Acetylcholine (ACh), a neurotransmitter involved in memory formation and motor control. While prior research supports the capability of Alpha-GPC to increase ACh levels, there is little evidence to support its role in improving memory and movement. Additionally, Alpha-GPC is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, which raises questions about its safety and efficacy. The goal of this study was to test the effects of Alpha-GPC on expression of the memory-related genes, dunce (dnc) and amnesiac (amn), as well as on motor function and memory-forming capabilities, within the model organism, Drosophila melanogaster. Based on the importance of ACh in memory formation and movement, we hypothesized that administration of Alpha-GPC would increase expression of dnc and amn, as well as improve motor function and memory. To test this hypothesis, we administered an Alpha-GPC solution to the experimental group of D. melanogaster, while a control group received only reverse osmosis (RO) water. Following the treatment period, D. melanogaster were subjected to RT-qPCR to measure expression of dnc and amn, as well as behavioral assays including geotaxis, phototaxis, and olfactory memory. The results showed a significant decrease in dnc in the Alpha-GPC treated flies; however, there was no significant difference in either the expression of amn or in the performance of the flies during the geotaxis, phototaxis, and olfactory memory behavioral assays

The Effect of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances on Female Fertility: A Systematic Review

Objective: To review relevant literature on how per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) affect fertility in females. Methods: Literature from PubMed and CINAHL databases were reviewed for associations between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and female fertility. Results: The majority of studies found a negative association between PFAS exposure and infertility outcomes. However, not all PFAS exhibited adverse effects, and certain types positively affected fertility outcomes. Conclusion: Certain PFAS, such as PFOA, have negative effects on fertility, but other types of PFAS, like small-chain PFAS, have positive effects. No conclusions can be drawn, and further research is needed

The Effect of Telehealth Support on Caregiver Burden

Abstract only.Caregiver burden is a growing concern in healthcare as more individuals take on unpaid roles to support loved ones with chronic or serious illnesses. Defined as the emotional, physical, and financial strain experienced by caregivers, this phenomenon can negatively impact not only the caregiver’s well-being but also the outcomes of those receiving care. With an aging population and rising healthcare demands, it is vital for nurses and healthcare providers to recognize, address, and mitigate caregiver burden. The key components of this review, home caregivers and telehealth support, are defined respectively as individuals providing care within the home setting and the use of digital platforms to deliver health services remotely. The purpose of this Evidence-Based Practice review is to examine whether telehealth support interventions reduce perceived caregiver burden compared to onsite or no support. By synthesizing findings from four recent studies, this review highlights that most structured telehealth interventions, especially those involving nurse-led education or virtual counseling, are effective in lowering caregiver burden. Nurses or other healthcare providers can use this information to advocate for and implement evidence-based telehealth services tailored to caregivers' needs, helping to reduce stress, promote emotional well-being, and improve overall care quality. This review emphasizes the critical role nurses play in caregiver support and the potential of telehealth to extend compassionate care beyond the hospital setting

The Effects of Hormonal Medications and Surgery for Treating Endometriosis Symptoms, a Systematic Review

Objective: To evaluate current literature to determine which common treatment method for lessening endometriosis symptoms is best: hormonal treatment and/or laparoscopic surgery. Methods: Literature was collected from PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar and evaluated for the benefits of hormonal therapy or surgery to lessen endometriosis symptoms. Results: Combining the two types of treatment, hormonal treatment, and laparoscopic surgery, were found to be the most effective way to alleviate symptoms of endometriosis. Conclusions: Using hormonal treatment post-laparoscopic surgery had the slowest recurrence rates, the smallest diameter in endometrial lesions, and less pain with menstruation and sexual intercourse. Clinicians and individuals with endometriosis should be aware of the effectiveness of this combined therapy for endometriosis

The Tension that Does not Exist Between John Paul II and Augustine: Love and Responsibility and De Doctrina Christiana

Upon a first reading of St. John Paul II’s Love and Responsibility and St. Augustine’s De Doctrina Christiana, the modern reader may be suspicious that the twentieth century pope is describing love in a new way, a way that seems almost contrary to Augustine’s fourth century teaching on divine love. Afterall, John Paul II’s statement that a person is not to be treated as an object for use and Augustine’s teaching that humans are to be used sounds outright contradictory. It is most likely not the case that the two works are actually contradicting each other, as John Paul II makes reference to De Doctrina Christiana in Love and Responsibility, and various Augustine scholars show that Augustine does not mean “use” in a modern utilitarian sense–differing from “use” being closer to a utilitarian definition in Love and Responsibility. After having shown that the two works are not in fact contradictory, the question remains of what exactly John Paul II is doing by making it seem as if their teaching is contradictory. John Paul II's Kantian application of the word “use” is only possible upon the arrival of Kant’s personalistic imperative later in history. Additionally, John Paul II in his pastoral theology continually returns to the idea of engaging the present culture with the Gospel. As such, John Paul II synthesizes Kant’s language and Augustine’s teaching to reinterpret Augustine’s theology so that we in this age may better receive the Church’s ever-ancient and ever-new teaching

The Effects of L-Theanine on Memory, Locomotion, and Anxiety in Drosophila melanogaster

Homeopathic supplements have been marketed as therapeutic agents that promote a variety of health benefits. Although homeopathy continues to be practiced as a form of medicine, the effectiveness and safety measures of this approach have not been thoroughly studied. Previous research has proposed the use of L-Theanine as a method for improving neuroprotective functions, alleviating anxiety, and strengthening cognitive abilities, but the scope of the physiological effects mediated by L-Theanine remains unclear. Supporting or refuting the claims associated with L-Theanine through experimental research on model organisms could lead to improvements of current research on the supplement and its potential use in alternative health treatments. Based on prior findings, it was hypothesized that the addition of L-Theanine to the diet of Drosophila melanogaster would increase expression of the Gad1 and per genes, which play a role in neuronal inhibition and circadian rhythm regulation, respectively. It was further hypothesized that an upregulation of these genes would be supported by enhanced memory, slower locomotion, and reduced anxiety. To test these hypotheses, RT-qPCR analysis was performed to assess changes in gene expression and behavioral assays were conducted on visual memory, wall-climbing, and wall-following. The results from this study showed no significant changes in expression of the Gad1 and per genes between the control and L-Theanine-treated groups of D. melanogaster. Additionally, no significant changes in visual memory, locomotion, and anxiety-related behavior were found across both groups, indicating a lack of influence of L-Theanine on nervous system function

H.A.C.F. Endowment Process Improvement

The Helena Area Community Foundation (HACF) plays an important role in supporting local initiatives through its endowment funds. However, opportunities exist to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their endowment process. Our goal is to find those key aspects using the Six Sigma DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) Methodology. The application of this methodology will allow us to identify and address these inefficiencies in HACF’s current system. By evaluating the endowment data, gathering stakeholder input, and utilizing the Six Sigma analysis, we will improve operational efficiency and ensure a better process for HACF

A Mathematician’s Gambit: “Checking” the Relationship Between Graph Theory and Linear Algebra in Chess

Chess has long been used as a tool; from training the human mind for battle strategies to gauging the potential for artificial intelligence and computers, chess is more than a game but a way to learn. While it is unattainable to classify all 10120 possible games (called the Shannon number after mathematician Claude Shannon), special cases of specific board configurations can be studied to provide a broader understanding of the game. This thesis explores the mathematical modeling of chess in terms of dominance and non-attacking scenarios. A configuration of pieces of one specific type (bishops, knights, rooks, queens) is considered to have dominance if all of the squares are controlled on the whole board, with the goal to find the minimum number of pieces that lead to a dominant arrangement. A non-attacking configuration looks at the maximum number of pieces that can be placed on the board without threatening (i.e. attacking) each other. While not part of the game of chess itself, these chess puzzles can be used to learn the mathematical concepts using a format that a student is already familiar with: chess. This thesis is a synthesis of domination and non-attacking modeling strategies using the work of cliques from Foulds and Johnston and graph polynomials from Mertens to study how these opposing methods apply to each other. New board constraints are also an avenue for exploration, as are vector representations of the game