Research Symposium

BIO

Sean Faletti is a first-year student from Orlando, Florida. On-campus, he is a part of the Presidential Scholars Program, Reverb A Capella, AASU, SASA, and Phi Eta Sigma. Sean is very grateful for his research mentor, Dr. Christina Owens, and his research partner, Hanna Herndon, for making UROP such a valuable experience.

Visual Performances of U.S.-Japanese Cultural Relations

Abstract

This study explores and analyzes how various visual performances and social media platforms represent the current relationship between Japan and the United States. American expatriates/ influencers and directors sometimes tend to misrepresent Japan and its culture through a Westernized lens. American-generated content has historically portrayed Japan from a place of white saviorism and Japanese villainization, rather than an accurate or unbiased viewpoint. For this project, we examined how the performative nature of race and gender affects the portrayal of transnational relationships between the United States and Japan. We created an archive of primary sources (containing films, TikToks, and Youtube videos), commentary sources, and scholarly texts. We watched and coded these texts in order to complete the database. With this in mind, the concrete goal of this study was to research these various social media platforms and films, create the aforementioned archive, and code the results, creating a new understanding that will better inform audiences about the cultural relations between the U.S. and Japan. This project culminated in two literature reviews, one compiling and analyzing films related to this project, and the other examining the social media influences involved. After concluding this project, results were determined based on newfound understandings. Through the examination of both older and modern films, in contrast with modern popular social media, it is clear that, though tropes and trends surrounding the portrayal of U.S.-Japanese relations have changed, many still remain the same.

Keywords: Japan, Culture, Performance, Humanities

BIO

I am a second year undergraduate Honors student from Tallahassee, Florida. I am majoring in Health Management, Policy, and Information with a focus in Health Information Technology. I am currently a research assistant collaborating with Dr. Sunny Narayanan on his NASA-funded study exploring the effects of simulated spaceflight conditions, such as microgravity and radiation, on the cardiovascular system. We are currently doing biochemical analyses of the basilar, coronary, and mesenteric arteries to better understand the observed increased incidences of medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease and spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome in some astronauts. I am passionate about pursuing interdisciplinary approaches to medical issues, learning about new topics in the field of space medicine and space life sciences, and understanding how technology can be used to advance healthcare practices.

Long-term Effects of Simulated Spaceflight Exposure to the Basilar Artery

Abstract

Brain function is reliant on adequate blood perfusion supplied by the cardiovascular system. Both the cardiovascular system and the brain have been shown to adapt in extreme conditions such as spaceflight, where astronauts are subjected to environmental factors such as deep-space radiation and microgravity. When exposed to these environmental stimuli, astronauts experience increased risk of developing medical conditions such as spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS), which we speculate is from adaptations of the cerebrovascular system. To assess these adaptations and study how they may influence astronaut brain function, we conducted a study of the long-term single and combined effects of simulated deep-space radiation and microgravity exposure on rats. Our hypothesis examines the changes in blood vessel structure and function of the basilar artery, which supplies blood to the brain. Biological samples of the rat basilar artery were collected and are being processed by cryostat sectioning for immunofluorescence protein analysis for the following protein markers: eNOS, CD31, and SM22A. Indeed as more people travel into space, we have much to discover about the effects of spaceflight on the cardiovascular system, in particular as we return to the Moon through NASA’s Artemis Program. The findings from this study will increase our overall knowledge in the field of space medicine and life sciences as well as improve life on Earth through advancements made in medicine and health.

Keywords: cardiovascular, space, medicine, brain, eye

BIO

I am an international student from Peru pursuing a BS degree in Marketing at Florida State University. I am graduating in May of 2023. My short-term goal is to obtain a MBA in Business Administration. I am a responsible, energetic and passionate student seeking to enhance my knowledge in the business field.

Understanding Intercultural Competencies and How to Develop Them in Gap Year and Study Abroad Program Experiences

Abstract

Our research focuses on understanding Intercultural Competencies (ICC) and how to develop it in gap year and study abroad program experiences at FSU. “Intercultural competence(ICC) can be defined as a complex of abilities that are needed to interact with people from other cultures adequately and effectively” (Wolff., & Borzikowsky, 2018). In this study we examine ICC in two experiences: “study abroad” (i.e. an academic experience outside of a student’s home country) and “gap year” (i.e. an experience taken in lieu of an academic experience to bolster a students’ interest in a career choice, rid themselves of burnout, help others, or other personal reasons). Our study compiled articles, found via a convenience sampling, written about developing ICC within study abroad and gap year experiences to note the importance of increasing intercultural competencies by connecting skills gained through both experiences. We found that through defining and understanding what Intercultural Competence was and why it was important, we were able to better understand what attributes in Gap Year and Study abroad programs would be more effective. Which we then collected and noted in our research and discuss in our findings.

Keywords: Intercultural competencies, study abroad, gap year, exchange student, ICC

BIO

Camila is a Venezuelan student who lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She is an avid pianist since the age of nine, and also enjoys painting, drawing, and reading contemporary novels. Her research interests are related to public policy and international affairs policy. She intends to pursue political journalism in her future, hoping to work for well-respected newspaper companies.

Assessing Public Participation in Redevelopment Projects: A Case Study of Tallahassee, Florida

Abstract

Public participation in redevelopment projects is a vital tool to address the community’s concerns for any potential adverse effects on a neighborhood. The city of Tallahassee, Florida is home to a rich history of African-American neighborhoods that have endured constant redevelopment pressures over the decades. The use of eminent domain, or the acquisition of private property for public use, has been at the center of the redevelopment discourse. As top-down processes have often been favored over bottom-up participatory approaches, this study investigates the social impact and the degree of public participation employed during the planning and construction of the Capital Cascades Trail Project. This research uses social impact and participatory tools to analyze public meetings, notes, public records, and project plans to determine the degree of community involvement in the process. Preliminary results may indicate low levels of public involvement according to Arnstein’s ladder of citizen participation. This ladder assesses the degree of public involvement and empowerment in various government projects. As a result of these preliminary findings, this study suggests the following policy recommendations. As community involvement increases, neighborhoods benefit from more equitable outcomes. Future projects should require that city planners use social impact assessments to address social justice concerns. Funding should be designated to train city planners in cultural competency and allocate resources to empower citizens to be actively engaged in community projects.

Keywords: Public Policy, Redevelopment, Tallahassee

BIO

Hi! My name is Samirah and I am a second-year junior. I love to sing, dance, and if you can't find me, 9 times out of 10, I'm probably watching a Kdrama or Daria in my room. I have always been interested in helping others out, but when I first came to Florida State I wasn't too sure what to major in; however, when I took my first psychology class my first semester here, I absolutely fell in love with the field. As a child of Haitian immigrants, I have seen how certain factors have affected the Haitian community. I have seen those within the Black and Haitian communities struggle with stigmas and barriers that have affected their mental health and as a result, I hope to one day help those within both the Black and Haitian communities with their mental health and improve their access to mental health services.

Black Americans' Experiences with Therapy and Barriers to Mental Health Services

Abstract

Disparities in racially and ethnically marginalized communities associated with mental health help-seeking have been a growing concern within the U.S. healthcare system. In attempting to seek out mental health therapy services, Black Americans have encountered individual, environmental, and institutional barriers. Although current literature involving mental health stigma and perceptions suggests that these barriers have resulted in the underutilization of mental health services by Black Americans, the experiences of Black Americans encountering these barriers has not been thoroughly examined. Prior research has indicated a need for more qualitative studies involving Black Americans within the mental health system. This study aims to recognize the issues faced by Black Americans when seeking and participating in mental health services, delineating the different barriers that deter them from services, and analyzing what factors aid in overcoming said barriers. By using a transcendental phenomenological qualitative design with comparison groups, we have been able to focus interviews on the description of participant’s experiences in encountering and potentially overcoming barriers when seeking mental health services, rather than implementing our own interpretation of such experiences. This research is beneficial in that it can assist researchers in developing effective interventions to destigmatize and mitigate the barriers associated with help-seeking.

Keywords: Black Americans, Mental health, disparities

BIO

I am from Lakeland, Florida. In my free time, I enjoy painting, drawing, and reading. I am currently planning on becoming a lawyer. I am passionate about helping those in need.

Representation of Women in Female-Directed Bollywood Films

Abstract

This project looks at how having a female director in Bollywood films impacts a film and the way women are represented. Representation has been steadily increasing and support of equal opportunity jobs have gained public support due to publication of studies showing the gross underrepresentation of women. Our research finds the number of female characters and how they are shown through the film coding process, with close watching and marking every time we see certain things. Each research member would be paired with one to three other members to watch and analyze one film. The number of all male and female characters would be found and surveys on each female character would be completed and referenced to other members’ surveys. The surveys ask questions about the character’s class, caste, religion, clothing, level of modesty, if and how they are sexualized, accessories, their relationships, and other linked areas. We argue that when the director of a Bollywood film is a woman, female characters are shown closer to reality and are less sexually emphasized.

Keywords: Representation, Film, Female

BIO

Julia Oliveira (she/her/hers) is currently a second-year undergraduate student at Florida State University, where she is double majoring in biological science and public health. Julia is on a pre-medical track, with aspirations of attending medical school in the Fall of 2024, following earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology. During her first year at FSU, Julia participated in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), where she served as a Research Assistant for the Center for Translational Behavioral Science within the FSU College of Medicine. There she worked with the Scale It Up Florida program to conduct community-based research focused on HIV-related issues within the young population in Florida. Julia has spent this past year conducting DIS, short for directed independent study, within the FSU Department of Biological Science (in the Levitan Lab under the direction of Ph.D. candidate Melanie Medina). For her doctoral research, Melanie is interested in studying reproduction and mate choice in marine gastropods, particularly sea slugs. Julia has investigated concepts such as oviposition, survivorship, mating, and more in the simultaneous hermaphrodite sea slug Doto chica. Julia has enjoyed conducting research for the past two years, and feels it has truly enriched her undergraduate experience here at FSU.

The Effects of Temperature on Mating, Oviposition and Survivorship in the Simultaneous Hermaphrodite Doto chica

Abstract

I will be investigating temperature effects on mating, body weight, oviposition, and survivorship in the system Doto chica. This sea slug can be found year-round in the Gulf of Mexico and feeds specifically on hydroids that grow in oyster banks. However, their abundance seems to be affected by changes in environmental conditions such as temperature. I will test the effects of three temperature treatments to observe how extreme cold or heat impacts the reproductive success of D. chica. This may provide insight on the reproductive strategies at work in this system, and how these strategies are affected by long lasting environmental changes. I will evaluate oviposition and mating, and data on body weight and survivorship will be collected pre- and post-experiment. I hypothesize that slugs will show differential oviposition in the low and high treatments. I will use the computer software ImageJ to compile oviposition data and use an ANOVA Test to analyze statistical significance. I ultimately think that slugs maintained at the low treatment temperatures will lay a greater number of eggs that are larger in size than those at the high treatment temperature, as well as experience increased survivorship and retention of body weight. Results may be explained by the fact that D. chica have been found at low temperatures in the field, and therefore possess the physiological ability to withstand a colder environment.

Keywords: marine biology, sea slugs, mating, reproduction, survivorship, temperature

BIO

Hello everyone! My name is Karina Frey, and I am a second year student majoring in Cell and Molecular Neurosciences! I am from Tampa, Florida and my research interests include neuropsychopathology, abnormal psychology, and microbiology! The research that I had the amazing opportunity to take part in all year constitutes most, if not all, of my research interests put into one! I am so grateful to have Austin Folger as my research mentor, and look forward to presenting an overview of autophagy and how selective autophagy receptors play a key role in the degradation of inclusion bodies that express mutated huntingtin protein found in Huntington's disease.

The clearance of mutant Huntingtin inclusion bodies through autophagy

Abstract

Huntington’s disease is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder characterized by personality changes, movement disorders, and cognitive decline. It is caused by the expansion of a polyglutamine tract to more than 39 copies of CAG in exon 1 of the Htt gene. This mutated huntingtin protein (mHtt) tends to form inclusion bodies in cells, which are cytotoxic. Cellular processes exist to mitigate this toxicity, one of which is autophagy. Autophagy is a process by which cells can envelop and recycle cellular contents. This can be either be non-specific, as in starvation autophagy, or specific as in selective autophagy. This experiment aims to elucidate the autophagy machinery involved in the clearance of mHtt inclusion bodies. We used various Atg deletion mutants in both the starvation and selective autophagy pathways to determine if they are required for inclusion body autophagy and vacuolar localization. We also used deletion mutants of selective autophagy receptors to determine which are required for inclusion body degradation. We have found that selective autophagy and a few selective autophagy receptors play a key role in the degradation of inclusion bodies in cells expressing mHtt.

Keywords: Huntington's disease and Autophagy

BIO

My name is Daniel Garcia and I am a second year student at Florida State majoring in Interdisciplinary Medical Science for Clinical Professions. I was born and raised Tampa, Florida and am of Cuban descent. I enjoy science and the many natural wonders of the world. In the future, I hope to go to medical school to become a doctor.

Cultural Tailoring in Communicating Health

Abstract

• Pesticide and heat-related illnesses are common amongst all
farmworkers, but especially in those with language-barriers or other
limiting factors. Latino farmworkers are at high risk for these
illnesses due to their eagerness to work and lack of safety
education.
• Tailoring is important in educating farmworkers because one must
understand the contexts under which they learn. In knowing the best
ways to present information to a group of people, it can be made
easier for them to learn.
• In the initial stages of joining onto this project, I was assigned to do
research on humoral medicine and cultural tailoring.
• Humoral medicine is an equilibrium model of health that is
widespread in Latin America. Health is thought to be a balance,
where too much warmth, for example, requires cold to compensate
and illness results from a lack of compensation (Foster, 1987).
• After learning about these topics, I began to educate myself on the
learning management system that we use, TalentLMS. Similar to
sites like Canvas, TalentLMS allowed me to use different resources
such as videos and PowerPoints to teach and tests and assignments
to make sure the learners learn the information presented.
• After completing this learning management system, we will be able
to tell if our methods of teaching were tailored to their learning
styles, and if cultural tailoring influences learning.
• However, due to the likeliness of preliminary results, literature
reviews had to be conducted

Keywords: Tailoring, Farmworkers, Health

BIO

My name is Lena and I am currently a junior in the Biology department. I am from Gainesville, FL. I am interested in research involving fish behavior and coral reef ecology. My career goals include going to graduate school and earning my Ph.D. I would like to be able to teach and help students while participating in research.

Corallivorous butterflyfish grazing on parrotfish grazing scars

Abstract

Corallivory, the act of an animal grazing on coral substrate, has an impact on the health of coral reefs. This grazing can provide food for other fish but can harm the corals. If fish are grazing on the scars, then it will be more difficult for corals to heal those wounds. Foureye butterflyfish (Chaetodon capistratus) are known to graze on gorgonians and hard coral, but the relation to other animals has not been identified. We decided to focus on Orbicella spp. because they are the most common targets of parrotfish and are frequently scarred. We utilize a unique data set of 20 videos gathered at two different sites in Bonaire, Caribbean Netherlands. Our study sites have high coral cover, including hard and soft corals, which makes them ideal for observing corallivory by butterflyfish. We analyzed each foraging video to quantify the number of bites that each butterflyfish took, and the identity of the substrates. These substrates include hard, soft, and dead coral. For bites on Orbicella spp., we recorded whether it was on a grazing scar made by a parrotfish. We recorded 1400 total bites and 500 bites on Orbicella spp. Our analyses will allow us to quantity the foraging preferences in C. capistratus, and identify if they prefer to graze on scarred tissue on Orbicella spp. If butterflyfish are eating corals that are scarred, it can compound the damage created by parrotfish and prevent corals from healing those wounds. This could have important effects on coral physiology and ecology.

Keywords: butterflyfish, parrotfish, coral, corallivory, grazing

BIO

My name is Jennifer Pierre, and I am from Naples, Florida. I’m interested in researching historical events, social sciences, and natural sciences. Currently, I am researching a subject related to neural networks associated with hurricanes. My career goals are to find a job where I can travel while working for a good company.

Prediction of Hurricane Paths through Neural Networks

Abstract

Background and purpose: Studies suggest that there are alternative methods to precisely predict hurricane trajectories. We examined past hurricanes to determine a pattern and cross-reference these neural-networks to create a new system of predicting through coding via python.​

Methods: Information was gathered from the past 20 years in the panhandle area of Florida. We observed and analyzed hurricane hits and considered wind patterns on the date and location of the event. Data was also gathered from each big hurricane that happened in the area specifically from the past 10 years such as Hurricane Michael and Irma. Information being collected is later converted into data points to develop a pattern including the date of landfall, the strength of the hurricane, diameter, etc.​

Results: Not yet determined (still in progress).​

Conclusions: In progress. Idea is that when peers are done implementing perception in regard to the hurricane trajectories through the python coding system, we can try different algorithms and begin to input data points from past hurricane events.

Keywords: Hurricanes, Trajectory, Perceptron

BIO

Riordan was born and raised in Tallahassee, Florida. Currently a Freshman at FSU, he is already pursuing a degree in Communications and Media and plans to pursue another degree in Economics. His interests include writing, philanthropy, and history, and has plans on starting his own business and pursuing a career in Journalism. Riordan would like to thank his research Mentor, Rebecca, for welcoming him to her project and helping him grow as a Research Assistant, Emily and Stephen for their amazing partnership, and family and friends for always supporting him.

Portrayal of Women in Bollywood films and What Does it Mean?

Abstract

Bollywood films are most popular in India but due to the expansion in the global market, we have seen a rise of such films in the United States especially. While our research is primarily on how female characters are being portrayed by female directors, it is important to understand why such research is relevant. Most commonly, women are portrayed as distressed damsels or submissive to their male counterparts in historical Indian cinema. Not only does this reinforce negative stereotypes, but it does not provide a positive image of women to potentially young and impressionable audiences. Despite these harmful depictions, the Bollywood industry has a mass following and continues to be a lucrative asset--proving its global impact. Suffice to say, the impact of how women are portrayed in Bollywood films is crucial to shaping how they are perceived outside of the cinema. In analyzing several films directed by female directors, our research has illuminated whether or not these depictions are maintained or changed and how that has impacted future perceptions of women.

Keywords: Bollywood, Women, Portrayal, Film

BIO

I am a double major in Spanish and Criminology. I want to work for the U.S. Embassy in Spain and eventually work for the FBI. I am a part of Lambda Alpha Epsilon and currently hold their merchandise chair position. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. I love to read books, especially thrillers. My favorite sports to watch are gymnastics and football.

Body Worn Cameras and How They Create a Biased Perspective For Viewers

Abstract

Body-worn cameras (BWCs) have grown in popularity
within the last few decades. BWCs are used to record
police interactions with citizens in order to protect both
parties. These videos are often used as evidence in the
court system. Research has found that videos collected
using body-worn cameras may create a biased
perspective. Currently, experiments are being done to
examine and potentially diminish this biased effect. To
evaluate how BWC perspectives might create bias, the
current study was performed. Potential participants
took part in a consent-interview that allowed
for informed consent, and a space for explanation of
what the study entails. Participants were asked to view
a series of lethal police use of force videos that varied in
camera perspective (body worn or onlooker).
Participants were then asked to answer several openended and pre-determined questions that relate to the
video and allows for them to comment on their opinion,
and likelihood to comment on and share these videos.
The results of this data are still in the process of being
gathered and evaluated. Further research will aim to
create policies that eliminate bias based on this
evidence.

Keywords: police, body-worn cameras, bias

BIO

Hi, my name is Sephora Affa and I am a sophomore at FSU. Regarding research, I value interdisciplinary approaches because that way, we are better able to complement the collaborative nature of our world.

The Complex Between Art, History, and Power: Contemporary East African Interpretations of Dante's Divine Comedy

Abstract

Italian colonialism led to direct cross-cultural interactions between Italy and Eritrea, Somalia, Libya, and Ethiopia. When it comes to interpreting these interactions, there emerges a complex relationship between art, history, and power. The vast dispersion of the Divine Comedy lends itself to this relationship, as its artistic themes and contributions are multi-dimensional. What do the nature of post-colonial East African Commedia references reveal about the tension between thematic reception and colonialism’s impact?
To answer this question, the proposed research project will first examine the most exportable themes of Dante’s Inferno and the literary lens through which these themes can be viewed. Which thematic elements do East African interpretations highlight, and which elements are overlooked? After this, the research will interpret the complex post-colonial responses to Dante’s work. Does Dante's reception in East Africa manifest itself through new artworks that synergize Dante's themes with colonialism, or does colonialism even play a significant role in these new interpretations?

Keywords: Dante, Africa, Complex

BIO

Hi! I am a first year finance major from Palm Beach, Florida. I am interested in correlational and experimental research, and in the future, I hope to pursue a career as a business lawyer.

Wild(fire) West: Insurer Risk and Response in California

Abstract

In recent times, large catastrophic wildfires have been predominantly ravishing in the West. In order to remain profitable, insurers must find a way to adapt to these “new catastrophic events.” This study will explore insurers' response to these disasters in the damaged State of California. Using insurer loss data and insurer regulatory filings we aim to explain the insurer’s response. Our findings indicate that insurers reduce property coverage due to catastrophic wildfires if they do not get their regulatory filings approved.

Keywords: Insurance, Wildfire, Catastrophe, Response, California

BIO

Angelina Khoja, going by Arden, is a first year student at Florida State, majoring in Nursing. Outside of research and UROP, she is interested in writing poetry, reading, as well as learning and helping others, which is why she is so passionate about this project. She loves to learn new information, especially from people and first count experiences, using her voice to speak for those who can’t anymore.

Remembering the Rosenstrasse Protest

Abstract

When learning about World War II, the associations that arise are the horrific events of the Holocaust, along with countless stories of the cruelty of the German government and soldiers. Though many have heard of the violent actions that occurred during this period, not many know of the moments of courage and light spurned by love and rebellion against oppression. This research project focuses on advocating for the mission of the Rosenstrasse Foundation. The Foundation strives to bring awareness through education, emphasizing acts of civil courage, such as those of the women who participated in the Rosenstrasse protest of 1943. One method of research, genealogy, involves the investigation of possible identities of protestors by locating past documents on platforms such as ancestry.com. Birth certificates, marriage certificates, and family trees are utilized to confirm the presence of the individuals at the protest. Through genealogical research, biographies are created and displayed on a public website. Here, descendants of protestors can learn more about their family members involved, and the website acts as a hub for information that advocates for the community's education. Another primary focus of the research was updating Wikipedia.com, where articles were edited to ensure the accuracy of the information available on the Rosenstrasse Protest. The research for this project gives a voice to those otherwise silenced by the weight of the violence and suffering of WWII, providing an example of the strength the public has when they unite toward a common goal.

Keywords: Rosenstrasse Protest, Civil Courage

BIO

Hi! My name is Alexis Dorman, I am 18 years old, from Orlando, Florida, and a first-year, honors student at Florida State University. I am pursuing a dual degree in International Affairs and Political Science with minors in Chinese and Education. Since I was young, I've spent my time volunteering, participating in a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities, and making the most of my educational career. I am passionate about international relations, political science, current events, and diplomacy. Aside from my academic interests I also enjoy dance, art, music, and movies!

The Changing Definition of "Womanhood" in Meru, Tanzania

Abstract

How has the history of the western feminist movement impacted the meaning of “womanhood” in Meru, Tanzania? For over a century women’s rights have been at the forefront of social transformation, globally. But the definition of feminism differs from place to place. The changing definition of “womanhood,” in Tanzania, is one that has recently caught the attention of experts. The Tanzanian social structure is changing, and progress is being made. Even so, there are still some norms that westerners struggle to understand. With the Lutheran church dominating, women have an entirely different idea of what it means to “be a woman.” I have utilized the transcripts produced by Dr. Beth Ann Williams from her time spent in Meru, Tanzania and have found numerous themes that are consistently mentioned across interviews. These reoccurring themes are worth looking into further and act as the foundation for the research I conducted and am presenting at the symposium.

Keywords: Womanhood, Religion, Tanzania, Feminism

BIO

Arthi Solayappan is a second-year student from Tampa, Florida, majoring in Political Science and minoring in Economics. She is exploring the impacts of using eminent domain to seize property for infrastructure and redevelopment in Tallahassee. Arthi hopes to bring awareness to arbitrary seizures that have previously occurred to develop reform policies to protect private property owners. She has been with the DeVoe L. Moore Center since Fall 2021. Arthi currently serves as a member of the SGA Campus Recreation Board and FSU Student Foundation Board of Trustees. In her free time, she enjoys reading and watching movies. In the future, she hopes to pursue a career in policymaking.

Historical Case Comparison of Infrastructure Projects in Tallahassee, Florida

Abstract

Scholars have well-documented the negative consequences of urban renewal policies during the 1950s and 1960s that led to the displacement of entire African American neighborhoods across the United States. This research asks: How have infrastructure policies changed, if at all, in terms of equity and affordable housing issues? Using historical documents, academic research, newspaper articles, and plans, this research evaluates the equitable use of eminent domain policies in public infrastructure projects by comparing the historic case of Smokey Hollow in the 1960s with the contemporary case of Capital Cascades Trail in 2011. Preliminary results show that the two cases are similar in terms of racial composition and land use. There have been improvements in state provisions and housing policies such as the 1970 Universal Relocation Act (URA). This is a federal provision of requiring replacement housing stock that was not present in the historical Smokey Hollow case. Future research should investigate the number of people experiencing homelessness and the loss of cultural amenities that result from the use of eminent domain in African American neighborhoods.

Keywords: Eminent Domain, Capital Cascades Trail, Smokey Hollow

BIO

Ambition leads his young inquiring mind to succeed and impact the world for good. The first-generation, Nigerian American student is motivated to apply his knowledge to better the society around him. Raised in Jacksonville, FL his research passions stem from his advocacy spirit. Specifically, public health, global health, and sexual health lie as some of his research areas of interests. Combining his STEM entrepreneurship skills and science background, Kehinde aims to create a product that will benefit disenfranchised communities. His current UROP project grants him the skills to conduct data extractions and learn the complexities of global health interventions. Kehinde was drawn to the project due to the similarities between the rural community in Honduras and his family’s hometown in Nigeria. Kehinde remarks, “UROP has been a blessing in my life, my project has allowed me to see how research is applied in helping those in need”. As of Spring 2022, the young scientist was awarded the FSU IDEA Grant to conduct research in creating a rapid STD test. Kehinde hopes his findings will aid him in creating the rapid STD test, making him a step closer to achieving his life’s dream. The story of Kehinde is merely only beginning.

Improving Population Health and Epidemiological Surveillance through the Utilization of Electronic Health Records

Abstract

As technology advances, the emergence of electronic health records serves to improve the quality of care among developed and developing countries. Electronic health records have been reported to increase monitorization of patient records, strengthen data sharing among health centers, and aid in tracking preventative healthcare screenings. EHRs remain paramount in offering solutions and interventions in times of disease outbreaks and epidemics. However, the use of EHRs in rural countries and communities remains at a disparaging low rate or nonexistent. Our study serves to analyze the implementation of EHR systems in developing countries and assess the benefits and drawbacks associated with such new technology. The benefits associated with EHR systems like: up-to-date patient information, data of preventive screenings, and maximized healthcare remain deficient in rural communities due to the lack of an EHR system. Therefore, through conducting a series of data extractions, one can better analyze the efficacy of an EHR system in rural communities that deal with a myriad of factors. We aim to identify the obstacles and disadvantages associated with EHR systems and explore possible solutions for better implementation methods. Exhibiting a global health initiative, the application of this study’s findings serves to aid in the ongoing efforts to implement an EHR system in rural Honduras. As a result, these findings will identify the key strengths of an EHR system in improving the quality of health among a rural community; and further highlight possible obstacles that may arise in implementation of a EHR system in the rural Honduran community.

Keywords: global health, electronic health record, technology, STEM

BIO

I am a third-year biochemistry student working on analytical chemistry research in the Lazenby lab group at FSU. My future goals are to attend graduate school in chemistry.

Fabrication and characterization of a tunable microelectrode array for simultaneous electrochemical detection

Abstract

Microelectrode arrays comprised of multiple individually addressable electrodes enable simultaneous and independent measurement of multiple analytes, especially when the electrodes are modified to act as electrochemical sensors. The small sizescale is advantageous as it enables highly localized electrochemical detection. In this work a low-cost tunable microelectrode array was designed and fabricated, which comprised seven closely-spaced but separate platinum or gold wires (25 µm in diameter). A custom-designed 3D printed apparatus was used to twist the wires into a bundle. This apparatus could be modified further to create arrays comprised of more electrodes, or to have a smaller overall device footprint. After twisting, the wire bundle was sealed in epoxy and mechanically polished to expose the surface of seven closely-spaced microelectrode disks imbedded in insulating material, which formed the array. The individual electrodes of the array were characterized through electrochemical methods, and optical and electron microscopy, to evaluate the surface quality and the integrity of the seal between the metal and the insulation. The individually addressable closely-spaced electrodes could be used for simultaneous voltammetric measurements of different electroactive species. The surfaces of the platinum or gold electrodes could be modified for sensing applications. For example, electrodeposited gold would support biosensors that require thiolated self-assembled monolayers. Electrodeposition on the array would also lead to an increased surface area and a potentially cleaner substrate surface.

Keywords: Electrochemistry, Analytical chemistry