2004

Independent Research 2004

Charles J. Bilangino

Mentor: Dr. Joseph M. Pastore

Title: The US Auto Industry’s Impact on America and the World

Abstract: Throughout the last century there has been a driving force in the American economy that has profoundly affected the many industries to which it is linked. The US automobile industry, now just over one hundred years old, has set the mold for the corporate structures of several US companies.  It has affected the US and world, not only economically, but also politically and socially.  The automobile industry, which once produced only several hundred cars a year, now produces over 57,000,000 cars worldwide annually. This paper examines the evolution and systematic impact of the auto industry by following the history and development of the Ford Motor Company.  By looking at the last century, decade-by-decade, the ways in which the industry was affected by events of the time and how the industry influenced and even created some of these events can be seen. This study will show why this industry is so crucial to the economic and social stability in our country, world, and future.

Frank Giancamilli
Mentor: Dr. Patricia Healy

Title: The FARS System of Accounting: A Case Study

Abstract: The Financial Accounting Research System (FARS) is a computer tool for accounting research that makes access to databases of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) more efficient and effective.  It is used to inform auditors about how to report transactions and events.  The use of this system assists in the justification of the standards set forth by the FASB.   FARS will be used in this research project to determine if the income statement classifications assigned by Microsoft Corporation for their own financial statements are necessary.

Annmarie Holloway-Ekey
Mentor: Dr. Susan Feather Gannon

Title: Technology and Ethics in the Workplace

Abstract: This project exlores the broad range of ethical issues that have emerged in the workplace due to the use of technology. This not only involves computer ethics, but also other forms of technology such as cell phones and employee identification cards. As the use of technology in the workplace explodes, there are many ethical issues and standards of conduct regarding privacy and accuracy for organizational leaders to address. In exploring the ethical issues that the Information Age has brought to the workplace this paper focuses on the privacy, accuracy, and property rights for both the present and the future workplace. Organizations must be proactive in addressing ethical use of technology and employees must be knowledgeable about the ethical policies of the organization.

Gabriella Melay
Mentor: Dr. Andriy Danylenko

Title: Language and Ethnicity in Eastern Central Europe: A Case Study of Hungary

Abstract: This paper focuses on the demands of various ethnic groups living under the Hapsburg monarchy for cultural and political autonomy. Among these minorities a common language was often seen as a basis for cultural and ethnic identity. In his Shaping of a Natural Identity (1978), Magocsi notes that, in the case of  neighboring ethnic groups, influences from different cultures may provoke nationalistic tendencies expressed in language and culture. This was most likely the case of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which has long been a meeting place for Germans, Hungarians, Jews, Poles, Ukrainians, and other peoples.

Leah T. Rivera
Mentor: Dr. Joanne Falinski

Title: The Relationship Between Language and Reading Among Girls and Boys

Abstract: Research has shown that in the early years of a child’s life girls tend to score higher on reading skills while boys excel in other areas. Based on research that has established a direct relationship between language and reading, this study investigates this relationship by observing boys and girls for one week in a first-grade classroom during free play, when each child has the freedom to choose their own activity – some of which are designed to strengthen language skills, while others do not involve language or reading. How these activities may have enhanced reading skills is correlated to the children’s reading test scores, the goal being to facilitate the best learning conditions possible. This study of the impact of gender on early literacy was done in a special education first-grade classroom in the Peekskill School District.

Marisa Santikul

Mentor: Dr. Charlene Hoegler

Title: Histochemisty of Rat Aorta Suggests Activation of PDE4D in Balloon Angioplasty

Abstract: Balloon angioplasty (BAL) is a clinical procedure used to open and unclog arteries.  Our research used male rats as models to determine whether BAL in thoracic aorta influenced an enzyme associated with arterial remodeling. One such enzyme, PDE4D, is thought to be up regulated when healing and vascular remodeling occur.  Samples of aortic rings were harvested at 24 hours, 7 days, and 14 days. After rings were fixed and sectioned using standard histology, tissue slices were probed with the antibody to the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 4D (PDE4D).  Results indicate that PDE4D levels increased in what appeared to be the tunica intima and media, suggesting that these smooth muscle cells were responding to blood vessel injury and healing.

Biljana Trivic

Mentor: Dr. Janetta Rebold Benton

Title: Masterpieces of Mosaic in Italy

Abstract: Mosaics, created of small cubes of colored material pressed into wet plaster, have been created to cover walls, ceilings, and floors, with images that tend to a degree of abstraction and simplification of form. Although many mosaics, of varying quality, have survived the years, relatively little research has been devoted to this medium. This paper focuses on mosaics in Italy, with an examination of Piazza Armerina in Sicily, in all its magnitude and glory. From there, other masterpieces will be discussed, such as those found in the cathedrals of Monreale and Cefalu and in the Palatine Chapel in Palermo. This will lead to the mosaics of Ravenna and Florence, focusing on the different materials, techniques, and motifs used in Italian mosaics.

Alison Zaccone

Mentor: Dr. Michelle Pulaski

Title: Advertising and America’s Youth

Abstract: Americans have become increasing more “connected” to media through technological advances over the last decade. Unfortunately, the more innovations we adopt, the more vulnerable we become as consumer targets Adults are certainly not alone in the thirst for obtaining the latest technological gadgets – most young Americans know more about technology, the Internet, and media than their parents. However, each time a child watches television, uses a computer, or reads a magazine they are bombarded with advertisements and media messages - and it does not stop there. Major contracts with agencies and Primedia’s Channel One news have brought advertising into schools. While technical know-how has great benefits for youth, children have become the largest and most heavily targeted group by advertising campaigns. It is therefore important to understand how advertising is impacting and influencing youth.