Barrett, The Honors College Thesis/Creative Project Collection

In thesis we will build up our operator theory for finite and infinite dimensional systems. We then prove that Heisenberg and Schrodinger representations are equivalent for systems with finite degrees of freedom. We will then make a case to switch to a C*-algebra formulation of quantum mechanics as we will prove that the Schrodinger and Heisenberg pictures become inadequate to full describe systems with infinitely many degrees of freedom because of inequivalent representations. This becomes important as we shift from single particle systems to quantum field theory, statistical mechanics, and many other areas of study. The goal of this thesis is to introduce these mathematical topics rigorously and prove that they are necessary for further study in particle physics.

Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus (BB) is a gram negative predatory bacteria that uses other gram negative bacteria to proliferate non-binarily. Due to the predatory nature of BB researchers have proposed to use it as a potential biocontrol agent against other gram negative bacteria. The in vivo effect of predatory bacteria on a living host lacks thorough investigation. This paper explores BB inside and outside of the C. elegans. BB acts internally by pre- infecting C. elegans with E. coli and then treating the worms with BB. After BB treatment worm survivavbility increased and morbidity decreased. Ex- ternally, BB modulated the environment around the nematode which reduced infection rates and increased nematode lifespan and survivability. Together, the internal and external results suggest BB has the capability to act as a living antibiotic acting topically and internally to reduce infection rates.

This report attempts to understand the effects of the many aspects that pertain to a woman’s path into the construction industry and their role in limiting women’s overall representation in the construction industry. More specifically, it aims to understand how upbringing, background, and culture impact women that do pursue careers in the construction industry. This paper presents some of the current and prominent issues being faced by women in in the construction industry, including those in the trades. These issues then contribute to their lack of representation and forceful exit. Additionally, it assesses personal narratives from a localized group of women who are currently employed at a large construction company. This information and these narratives are analyzed jointly to try and gain a better understanding of the current challenges being faced by women in comparison to those reported previously. This joint comparison allows for a deeper understanding of women’s perception of the construction industry as a whole.

Of the many retirement savings options available, defined benefit pension plans were once a retirement income staple. Due to the highs and lows of the economic cycle, defined benefit pension plans have become severely underfunded. A series of inadequate contributions, enabled by weak funding and risk management policies, poses uncertainty for the retirement of many. The cost of paying pension benefits rises as defined benefit pension plans become increasingly underfunded, burdening the employers who continue to pay them. However, without increasing these already unaffordable pension benefits alongside inflation, they become less valuable to retirees. As pension benefits lose their value and the costs of retirement, such as healthcare and assisted living, increase, defined benefit pension plans may not provide the retirement security that was once promised.