The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of intranasally administered oxytocin on the sociability of adult, neutered, male and female shelter cats, as measured by proximity-seeking behavior and meow vocalizations. Two local Humane Societies were sampled in this study. The shelter cats were randomly assigned to one...
Deep pressure therapy (DPT) is a method of anxiety relief that uses pressure sensations to lower the stress response produced in the brain, and functions in a manner similar to a hug. Heavily weighted blankets and weighted vests are most commonly used to apply DPT, though recent work has shown...
The prevalence of addiction in society has called researchers, educators, policy makers, and clinicians to examine and research causes and treatment approaches to address the manifold problems addictions present individuals and society alike. There are many theoretical approaches to understanding addiction and the behavior change processes that lead from addiction...
Pinot noir has a reputation for lower color stability than other red wine varieties. Because it has relatively low anthocyanin and phenolic content and lacks acylated anthocyanin pigments compared to other red vinifera varieties, color extraction and stability are particularly important. Varying the processing during fermentation of red wine can...
This thesis examines two neighborhood emergency preparedness programs: the Linn-Benton Neighborhood Emergency Training (LB NET) program in Corvallis, Oregon, U.S.A., and the Women's Neighborhood Networking Program (WNNP) in Uzhhorod, Ukraine. In Corvallis, the LB NET began in 1996, in part out of concerns that in a large disaster the local...
In the thrust to shift away from fossil fuels towards renewable options, Ecuador produces African palm-based biodiesel, which is currently imported by the Unites States. An analysis of this specific interaction was done via personal contact with the industry in Ecuador and extensive literature review of the topic. The results...
As human-robot interaction becomes more commonplace, roboticists should understand how robot behaviors are perceived by people to avoid misunderstandings. In our lab, we are exploring the use of a Cozmo as an interactive, break-taking aid in workplace settings. Before our interactive aid can be released into the wild, we must...
With robots becoming increasingly commonplace in today’s society, we need to find ways to help robots to become better accepted. One common method used to gain acceptance and build rapport is through the use of humor. Currently, research in robot comedy exists, albeit it is fairly limited. Our goal with...
Relative to visual and audible communication, haptic perception is quiet, does not require eye contact, can be applied at any point on the human body, and can function in parallel with the other four human senses. Vibrotactile feedback is a method of haptic communication using vibrations applied to the skin....