Research Symposium

BIO

My name is Anthony Lee and I am a sophomore here at Florida State University. I am currently a Pre-Clinical Professions major, with hopes of graduating and working as an emergency room physician after graduate school. I am involved with various organizations across campus including a Recruitment Chair for Seminole Student Boosters, a member of Remote Area Medical Club, as well as a brother of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity.

Representation of Women in Female-Directed Bollywood Films

Abstract

The Bollywood film industry has been male-dominated for many decades, with female actors receiving much less representation. This project focuses on whether or not women directors impact the representation of women characters in their films. This is crucial in determining what having a woman in the role of a director can have on a film and the representation of women that are in the films. The research analyzes Bollywood films that are directed by women. To identify the number and quality of female characters, a method called “film coding” is used. This is done by watching the films closely and marking certain criteria that relate to each female character's portrayal. Sometimes it is marked if the character does not meet this criteria. The movie is watched one time through to identify the number of speaking female characters, after this has been completed the “film coding” begins and the findings are entered into a coding survey for each character. The research remains in its initial stages, yet following the study of a few films, preliminary results hint at interesting results. They could imply that women directors can have a positive impact on the representation of women in films. If this proves to be true this could lead to a greater representation of women not only in Bollywood films but in all films.

Keywords: Bollywood Films, Female Director

BIO

My name is Olivia and I am a Political Science major and I am from Orlando, Florida. My career goal is to become a lawyer working in the field of criminal justice. I have two dogs who I love to take hiking, and I enjoy reading, the gym and spending time with friends. My research interests include, social work, child development and law.

Assessing the service needs and barriers of Collegiate Recovery Program (CRP) LIFT

Abstract

• Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) are health programs within higher education institutions which offer students
in recovery a drug and alcohol-free space to study, socialize, garner support, and receive peer connections with other
students in recovery (Laudet et al., 2016)
• Recovery is the process of making positive changes in one's lifestyle and behaviors to abstain from substance misuse
and addictive behaviors to maintain a healthy physical and emotional well-being.
• Nascent research has shown that CRPs have a linkage to lower student relapse rates and an increase in academic
achievement (Laudet, et al., 2015)
• This poses a mounting behavioral health disparity issue that is under-researched in the current literature.
- Federal agencies have called for an increase in recovery support services that are led by peers. Their research has
shown that the areas of CRPs that have been studied can lead to better recovery outcomes and higher academic
performance (Laudet et al., 2015).
- A wide-spread literature review suggests that students remain in recovery for longer in the presence of peer-based
social events. CRPs can provide these resources and events (Smock et al., 2011).

Keywords: substance recovery, collegiate recovery program, service barriers

BIO

Jimmy Egdorf is a first-year undergraduate at Florida State University pursuing degrees in the Department of Physics and Department of Scientific Computing. In addition to research, Jimmy works as a lab technician for the Physics department and is an officer for the Florida State chapter of Society of Physics Students (SPS). The project on stellar clusters that Jimmy worked on for URS was presented prior at the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference at University of South Florida in Tampa. In the future, he plans on continuing research here at FSU.

Estimating Properties of Stellar Populations Using the Isochrone Method

Abstract

Observations indicate stars form from gas and dust concentrated within molecular clouds. It is believed that star-formation events, short-lived and localized in space, are the origin of what are aptly named as stellar clusters. A Hertzsprung-Russel (HR) diagram defines the distribution of stars in the cluster through temperature and luminosity. This distribution compares average properties such as age, metallicity, and rotation rates between clusters through a locus, known as an isochrone. This work aims to infer properties of astronomical observations clusters through the isochrone method.
Synthetic isochrones were obtained through stellar modeling. The distribution of masses used for a given stellar population was generated according to the adopted initial mass function (IMF) to determine the distribution of stellar masses at their birth. A tri-linear interpolation method was used to find corresponding values of effective temperatures and luminosities for each member of the synthetic population. These were calculated using a stellar library stemming from Modules for Experiments in Stellar Astrophysics (MESA) code, and the synthetic cluster was populated.
Obtaining the isochrones of the synthetic cluster for different ages and placing them on the HR diagram verified the correct implementation of the isochrone method. Continuing this method could better estimate the age and secondary parameters, to understand how the stars in our sky were formed. The isochrones eventually may be compared to astronomical data to clarify aspects of stellar evolution with better accuracy and at a lower computational cost.

Keywords: Astrophysics, computational sciences, stars

BIO

Growing up in Delray Beach, FL, I have always been fascinated by the complexities of the natural world. My academic interests are deeply rooted in biochemistry and biology, particularly focusing on evolutionary biology and genetics. I am passionate about exploring the underlying wonders that shape life and am curious about the intricate biochemical processes that characterize biological functions. Currently, my research pursuits focus on advancing our modern understanding of speciation by contributing to ongoing research efforts and refining existing knowledge of the forces that drive evolutionary divergence.

Quantifying Acoustic Signal Divergence During Speciation by Reinforcement in Pseudacris feriarum

Abstract

Speciation is the origin of new species through evolutionary divergence. Reinforcement, the evolution of behavioral reproductive isolation between species due to selection against hybridization, is one evolutionary force that can drive speciation. Prior studies have suggested that reinforcement between two chorus frog species, the Upland chorus frog (Pseudacris feriarum) and the Southern chorus frog (P. nigrita), can indirectly cause shifts in the male mating calls of P. feriarum populations. No studies to date, however, have examined these shifts in call structure across fine spatial scales. Here, we studied a transect of twenty P. feriarum populations spanning the Piedmont and Coastal Plain geographic regions near Macon, Georgia. Populations south of Macon have undergone reinforcement from interactions with P. nigrita, whereas populations north of Macon have not. By measuring and comparing call characteristics—such as wavelength, amplitude, pulse number, pulse rate, and frequency—across populations in the transect, this study provides valuable insights into the evolution of phenotypic variation and the divergence of mating behaviors during speciation.

Keywords: Speciation, Biology, Evolution, Genetics, Frogs

BIO

My name is Bitia Roig San Roman and I am from Tampa, FL. I am a sophomore here at FSU majoring in Risk Management/Insurance and Finance. My research is on studying how women are portrayed in Bollywood films directed by women.

Representation of women in female-directed Bollywood films

Abstract

Bollywood films are extremely popular throughout India. This research has a focus on how Bollywood films directed by women portray female characters in the cultural expectations and societal norms found in India. Gender roles in India are typically women being characterized according to misogynist interpretations of how a woman should act in their society. This allows us to see how with female directors, women are portrayed differently in these films. Throughout this research, we gather quantitative and qualitative data through a process known as film coding. We go through different films and fill out surveys in Qualtrics, then compare answers to make sure everything is correct. While doing this process, we go through and mark different things such as clothing, religion, education, work, relationships, taboo behavior, and more which allows us to gather an understanding of how exactly the women in the films are being viewed as. This project is still in its initial stages so there is no conclusive data or results yet. However, while viewing these films we can begin to see the different trends in women while coding these films.

Keywords: Bollywood, Movies, Women, Impact

BIO

Hi! My name is Toni and I'm from Hollywood, Florida. I'm a Biochemistry major with aspirations of becoming a physician. I am interested in emergency medicine and improving patient outcomes through research.

Developing a Tool for Improved Mental Health Crisis Response

Abstract

Police response to mental health crisis calls can lead to adverse outcomes. A crisis call is a call to an emergency service during an emergency inflicted by a mental health concern. This project aims to develop a simulation-based tool, which models the dynamic nature of police response based on user inputs to evaluate their system performance in different crisis response models. The tool aims to improve the planning of response to crisis calls and improve mental health outcomes. Ideally, it would prevent consequences such as unnecessary hospitalizations, arrests, or fatalities. A literature review of existing attempts to improve police response to mental health crises was conducted to improve understanding of the benefit of the simulation tool. Data visualization was used to interpret data from a Washington-based case study. A user interface for the tool is in development for the use of interaction by potential users. Based on our preliminary literature review, it is likely that the tool would improve mental health crisis call outcomes. Ideally, the tool would assist in deciding the most effective call response model. Future honing could mold the tool to specific community conditions as well as improve user interaction.

Keywords: Crisis Response, Simulation, Mental Health

BIO

My name is Nora, and I am currently a second-year Clinical Professions major at Florida State University, from Louisville, Kentucky. I plan on attending medical school upon graduation, with aspirations of becoming a neonatologist or an emergency medicine physician. I enjoy staying active through working out, hiking, and pickle ball, reading and spending time outdoors. I am actively involved in volunteering at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital in the emergency department and plan to get my Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) license this summer.

An Investigation of Keratin Structure Through the use of BioArt

Abstract

BioArt merges scientific methodology with artistic vision to communicate scientific findings in a more visually aesthetic manner. The subjects of these images can encompass a wide range of biological samples and can include bacteria, fungi, cells, and/or animal/plant tissues. In this project we explore mainly keratin-based samples, including hair, nails, and differences in their structure under upright microscopes. Keratin is a fibrous structural protein found in epithelial cells, as well as in glands and organs. Various microscopy techniques were utilized, including brightfield, phase contrast, darkfield, epifluorescence, and differential interference contrast, to visualize the complex networks created by keratin. How keratin self-assembles into complex structures can differ greatly between individuals depending on unique amino acid sequences expressed in each person’s DNA, highlighted in the images gathered during this project. The photos captured highlight the differences in hair morphology across individuals. Beyond this project, BioArt in general helps to expand public perception and understanding of science by putting microscopic objects on display in a more digestible way.

Keywords: art, biology, microscopy, keratin

BIO

Amanda Callies is a first-year undergraduate student pursuing a major in psychology and minors in linguistics and child development. She is currently a UROP research assistant working on a project in developmental psychology about numerical cognition, specifically focusing on the number zero. Her personal area of interest for future research is the effect of digital technology on language and emotional development in children and adolescents. Here at FSU, Amanda is involved in Psych Club.

Preschoolers' Conceptions of Zero

Abstract

This research aims to investigate how children develop the concept of zero, the different dimensions of this conceptual development, and how this development differs from the development of small natural numbers. To test the development of the zero concept, three- and four-year-olds will be individually interviewed and complete a series of tasks both using a computer program and physical objects. These tasks are intended to test various dimensions of the zero concepts. They include: what is a number, is it a number, how many, make-N, which number, symbol naming, non-symbolic magnitude comparison, verbal magnitude comparison, and symbolic magnitude comparison. We predict that children’s concept of zero develops independently from concepts of small natural numbers. Further, we hypothesize that the zero concept is multidimensional and continuous (children learn the different components of the zero concept in no set order) and that these dimensions become more strongly correlated with age. We will preliminarily explore these hypotheses by calculating descriptive statistics, t-tests, and correlation analyses. If the hypotheses are supported, there will be evidence for a new model explaining how children develop the zero concept.

Keywords: zero, psychology, cognition, developmental, numbers

BIO

I'm from Tallahassee, Florida, and have always been interested in the ways technology can be used to save people. From prosthetic hearts, to better surgery, to faster ambulances, to saving lives with the money, finding ways to leverage technology towards protecting people's lives has been my passion.

Optimal Design of Excavator Buckets for Post Building Collapse Rescue Operations

Abstract

This project aims to optimize the design of excavator buckets to maximize survival rates of trapped individuals under debris following disasters. The experiment was conducted in two parts. In the pilot experiment, I conducted a series of operations with a small-scale remote control excavator bucket focusing on precise removal of individual debris. To minimize variability, I collaborated with three colleagues to develop a standardized technique for bucket operation. Each colleague conducted five trials per bucket design using this uniform method. Design one featured a lower arch, width of 80 CM, and radius of 35 CM (LA-W80-R35) while design two had an upper arch, width of 30 CM, radius 4 CM (UA-W30-R4). These parameters were selected based on my mentor’s research and previous student experiments. Debris piles were randomized during each trial, and sensors were calibrated before each trial. Speed, measured as total debris removal time, and pressure, recorded by sensors placed under the debris, were key metrics for evaluating efficiency. Results indicated design two was more effective in reducing pressure on trapped individuals and minimizing debris removal time. The lower arch design facilitated easier debris pickup due to its steep slope and full closure ability, whereas the upper arch design was less effective in fully enclosing debris. Material differences between the 3D-printed prototypes and the steel buckets used in initial trials were noted as a potential factor influencing performance. Results from this phase will further validate the pilot experiment’s findings, providing insight into scaling the design for real-world applications.

Keywords: Rescue, Excavator

BIO

My name is Fiona Grosu, and I am a third-year senior studying International Affairs. I am originally from New York City, where I fostered a great interest in different cultures, and by extension, global occurrences and politics. I was inspired by my position as FSU's President of the Slavic Student Association to study the nuances of the Russo-Ukrainian War as they pertain to children for my Honors in the Major project. After my undergraduate graduation this semester, I will commence my Master's in International Affairs. I intend to pursue an International Law degree after!

Children of the Post-Soviet Union: A Historical Analysis of Contemporary Child Indoctrination, Militarization, and Relocation in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus

Abstract

"Children of the Post-Soviet Union: A Historical Analysis of Contemporary Child Indoctrination, Militarization, and Relocation in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus" attempts to explain how children in my post-Soviet triad of interest—Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus—are subjected to indoctrination, militarization, and relocation in light of the Russo-Ukrainian War. My thesis looks to explain why child indoctrination, militarization, and abduction still exist today in the post-Eastern Bloc, even though strict laws exist to protect children against these things in countries like Germany, a place once infamous for its Hitler Youth past.

To analyze this contemporary issue, I will utilize a Western European and Eastern European historical context to help bring my research full circle and connect the past with the immediate present. What this context will entail is a detailed overview of two youth organizations, one in the former Soviet Union and one in Nazi Germany, which existed from 1922 to 1991 and 1926 to 1945, respectively. I will focus on the WWII and interwar periods, as well as look at the child laws that exist today in the countries in question (Germany, Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus). My research touches upon Western influence to explain European child laws and their origins.

Keywords: childhistory, youngpioneers, hitler youth, soviet union, ukraine war

BIO

Hello everyone! My name is Kaylee Grutchfield and I am currently a freshman at Florida State University studying Political Science. I wanted to join UROP as an opportunity to learn more about research and the field that I'm passionate about. In my future, I would like to go into law and become an attorney, so learning more about Political Science and the government through this project has been extremely beneficial. I'm excited to present at the Symposium and learn more about other projects as well.

Observational Analysis of Tie-Break and Veto Powers Utilized within the U.S. Government

Abstract

The research goal examines tie-breaking and vetoing powers used in the executive, legislative, and judicial branches to affect decisions in the U.S. This investigation is significant because currently, there is only speculation to how these hard powers influence political division within the country, so observing the historical data reveals patterns. Research was first started by compiling scholarly articles with instances of tie-breaking and veto powers to narrow the focus to the three branches of government. Data was put into tables/graphs to specifically show-- in the legislative: when Vice Presidents had the most amount of tiebreaking votes in the Senate; in executive, which Presidents utilized veto powers the most; and in judiciary, how many tiebreaking votes were necessary in the Supreme Court Justices decisions. Patterns can be determined from this mapping to predict and possibly prohibit their use in future instances. The Vice President's tiebreaking votes have showcased that political party division is not the most contributing factor to the most tiebreaking votes; rather, significant events happening in the U.S. that spark controversy are more indicative of tiebreaking votes occurring. For executive veto powers used, data predicts that higher amounts of vetoes will occur when the legislature majority party contradicts the current President's. Data on the use of tie-breaking powers in the Supreme Court Justices predicts that tie-breaks occur when there are divisive cases within the country. A nuanced understanding of hard powers in committees demonstrates the need to understand governmental processes due to lasting implications on citizens' everyday lives.

Keywords: Political Science, Game Theory, Committee Power

BIO

As a Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholar and first-generation college student, Eddie is pursuing a Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences with a certificate in Public Policy at FSU. In his first semester, he joined the Transfer Leadership Institute (TLI) and discovered a passion for undergraduate research through the University Research Opportunity Program (UROP). This led him to assist Dr. Alexandra Cockerham’s research on Teen Courts, which divert youth from incarceration. Eddie also completed the Student Government Association’s Legislative Certification Program (LCP), earned a 4.0 GPA, and made the President’s List. He is now in the Honors in the Major program conducting research titled "Degrees of Opportunity," which seeks to reduce barriers for justice-impacted college students to pursue higher education. His project earned an IDEA Grant and will be featured in a blog by FSU’s Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement (CRE) this summer. Eddie is currently interning with the Innocence Project of Florida and aspires to become a professor at FSU. On weekends, he travels home to Pensacola to visit his Mom and likes to ride his Harley-Davidson “Chainbreaker."

Evaluating Teen Court Success

Abstract

Teen Court programs are used to divert youth from traditional criminal legal system processes, aiming to reduce recidivism and provide peer-led interventions. This study evaluates the impact of North Carolina’s Teen Court system on juvenile recidivism compared to traditional court processing and other diversion programs.

We incorporated a mixed-methods study with surveys, site visits, and statistical analysis to assess the structure, effectiveness, and impact of Teen Court programs. Understanding Teen Court’s effectiveness informs policy decisions and improves juvenile justice interventions by emphasizing peer-led encouragement over punitive measures.

We conducted a statewide survey of 100 counties, observational site visits to 10 Teen Court sessions, and a quantitative analysis of recidivism rates to compare Teen Court participants with similarly situated youth in traditional court or other diversion programs.

Preliminary findings indicate significantly lower recidivism rates among Teen Court participants than those processed through traditional juvenile court. Findings emphasize the role of peer accountability, community support, and structured diversion in reducing youth reoffending.

This study highlights the benefits of Teen Court programs in reducing recidivism and promoting positive youth outcomes. Findings support expanding Teen Court initiatives across jurisdictions, and we are currently conducting a study of Teen Court interventions in Florida.

Keywords: criminal justice and Teen Court

BIO

Victoria is a second-year student majoring in Economics at Florida State University. Originally from the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, Victoria has a strong interest in law and plans to attend law school after graduating. Their research includes observing misdemeanor and traffic court proceedings in the 2nd Judicial Circuit, providing insight into courtroom dynamics and legal processes.

Misdemeanor (In)Justice

Abstract

It is estimated that over 13 million misdemeanor cases are filed in the United States each year.
Recent research has highlighted some of the concerns related to the misdemeanor system of justice in the United States, including violations of due process and practices that contribute to inequities. The current research intends to explore the misdemeanor system in Florida's Second Judicial Circuit to understand the extent to which misdemeanor courtrooms are complying with the law and to understand some of the factors associated with non-compliance and other potential sources of unfairness. To accomplish this, a team of undergraduate student researchers conducted systematic courtroom observations using a custom form across the circuit, comprised of six separate courtrooms. Observations included misdemeanor court arraignments and criminal traffic proceedings. Courtroom observations were completed in both rural and urban settings.
Drawing on the data elicited during courtroom observations, future analyses will systematically explore local courtroom practices to capture the extent of legal compliance and to identify factors associated with non-compliance in legal proceedings. Our findings will be shared with local stakeholders to inform discussions of the misdemeanor system of justice, including ways to promote best practices.

Keywords: Criminal justice, courts, due process, mixed-methods research

BIO

I'm a 3rd year undergraduate student at Florida State University, majoring in Statistics. My academic interests include the interplay between technology and psychology. I am currently working in the Contextual and Automatic Influences on Relationships (CAIR) lab, and I'm pursuing the field of data science.

Exploring Influences Between Social AI Interaction and Human Relationships

Abstract

Enhancements in large language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT, have transformed human-AI interaction into a source of emotional support and bonding. As social AI finds greater acceptance, its impact on human relationships is yet to be fully explored. This study examines the bidirectional influence between AI usage and psychological well-being, specifically loneliness, depression, and attachment anxiety.
A longitudinal study was conducted with undergraduate participants (N = 26, expected N = 200) who completed baseline surveys measuring loneliness (UCLA Loneliness Scale), attachment style (Adult Attachment Questionnaire), and depression (CES-D Scale). Participants then reported daily interactions with AI and humans for three weeks, followed by a check-in survey using the same psychological measures.
Results indicated that increased time spent with AI, while controlling for human interaction, significantly reduced loneliness (B = -0.02, SE = 0.004, p < .001) and attachment anxiety (B = -0.07, SE = 0.03, p = .022). AI interaction was not significantly linked to depression change (B = -0.32, SE = 0.22, p =.156). These results imply that AI interaction could be associated with a reduction in loneliness and attachment anxiety - perhaps because it is more accessible, responsive, and non-judgmental than some human interactions. Future research could investigate the effect of AI on different demographics and impacts of other forms of AI interfaces, like voice-operated systems. Knowledge of these associations can help guide the development of AI for social and emotional health in an era of coexistence with socially sophisticated artificial entities.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Attachment Anxiety, Loneliness

BIO

I am a second-year biochemistry student on the pre-med track from Bloomington, Indiana, aspiring to become a sports-medicine physician with a focus on collegiate or high school athletics. I participated in FSU’s first-year abroad program in Valencia, Spain, and Florence, Italy, and served as a Fundraising Development Captain for FSU Dance Marathon.

Naturally Mined Diamonds Versus. Lab-Grown ones: Consumer Attitudes, Motivations and the role of Sustainability

Abstract

Lab-grown diamonds (LGDs) are synthetic diamonds that exhibit the same optical, chemical, and physical properties as their naturally mined counterparts. LGDs have gained a significant presence in the diamond jewelry industry, creating new opportunities for researchers and entrepreneurs. Additionally, LGDs offer a more ethical and sustainable alternative to mined diamonds, a factor that has driven consumer interest, particularly since the term "blood diamonds" emerged. Our research seeks to identify what influences consumer motivations and perceptions when it comes to naturally mined diamonds, lab grown diamonds and precious gemstones. The study employs a photovoice focus group procedure as part of preliminary research to gauge consumer perceptions in the US and Pakistan. Findings suggest that consumers in Pakistan are more price-sensitive compared to those in the US and purchases of lab-grown diamonds are considered cost-feasible. However, no motivations pertaining to sustainability are exhibited. Although consumers do acknowledge and display a positive attitude towards sustainable consumption of diamonds (lab-grown), this may not necessarily translate to behavioral manifestations. In the US, consumers are not particularly inclined towards lab-grown diamonds for special occasions like Valentines, engagement or for wedding bands due to intrinsic sentimental value. However, for all other purchases, there is a thriving positive attitude towards lab-grown diamonds and greater sustainability across the value chain. Study findings have major corporate and theoretical implications for the global diamond industry provided that current research on the subject is extremely scant.

Keywords: lab-grown diamonds, sustainability, consumer motivations, blood diamonds

BIO

My name is Elizabeth Cordero and I'm a second year double majoring in Psychology and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences on the pre-law track. As a Hispanic woman, I'm passionate about research related to minority communities and how institutional structures contribute to inequalities. With the skills I've developed throughout UROP, I'll be better prepared to embark on the Honors in the Major program!

The Role of Race in Harm Perception and Retaliation​

Abstract

When performing an ambiguously aggressive act, people perceive that act as more violent when the agent of harm is Black versus White. Thus, people may perceive greater harm when the agent is Black. Alternatively, people expect ingroup members to behave prosocially, suggesting that harm may be perceived as more harmful when caused by a racial ingroup than outgroup members. Yet, when given the opportunity to punish Black or White individuals, people administered more intense shocks to the Black versus White individual, suggesting that people may more harshly retaliate when the agent of harm is Black versus White. In the current work, White females engaged in a reaction-timed task with either a Black or White female “partner” (a confederate). All participants lost the first trial and were “shocked by their partner”. In reality, all participants received the same shock they labeled as a seven out of ten during a shock calibration stage. After winning the second trial, all participants chose the shock intensity for their partner to receive. The results indicated that while participants perceived greater harm from the White versus Black partner, they delivered more intense shocks to the Black than White partner.

Keywords: Harm perception, White versus Black, shock study

BIO

I'm a sophomore premed student from Miami with an interest in healthcare and research. I’m planning to pursue a career as a physician and currently exploring different areas of the field.

The Politics of Heat: How Farmworker Heat Illness is Framed in Public Discourse​

Abstract

This study investigates the public discourse surrounding heat-related illnesses among farmworkers in the United States, a population facing a disproportionately high risk. Through a systematic content analysis of news articles, blogs, and audiovisual media from 2017 to 2022, the research identifies dominant narratives and explores how these narratives influence policy decisions. Utilizing the Newsbank database and a manual coding thematic analysis process, the study reveals that while heat-related illness is often used to promote indirectly related topics such as climate change and immigration, there is a tendency to frame the issue through individual blame rather than addressing systemic workplace shortcomings. This framing leaves farmworkers vulnerable to further injury and neglect, despite the lack of federal heat standards. The research highlights the need for stronger farmworker protections and suggests future studies could expand the scope of analysis to advocate for policy changes.

Keywords: Farmworkers; Heat-related illness; Public discourse

BIO

Hello, my name is Raven Gadson. I am currently a second-year student at Florida State University, majoring in Pre-Clinical Professions with the goal of pursuing a career in medicine. With aspirations of attending medical school and specializing in Anesthesiology, I am committed to building a strong academic foundation and gaining hands-on research experience. In addition to my academic pursuits, I actively engage in several organizations that contribute to my personal and professional growth. I am a dedicated member of Phi Delta Epsilon, SISTUHS Inc., and serve as the Recruitment Chair for the Seminole Student Boosters, and I am member of the Florida State University club gymnastics team. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, where I have gained valuable research experience to complement my studies and future career goals.

Morphology and Angular Momentum of Superfluid Helium Drops

Abstract

A cryogenic fluid is a substance that exists in a liquid state at extremely low temperatures. Cryogenic fluids such as liquid helium, hydrogen, and oxygen have many implementations in space and ocean travel research. The morphology of rotating classic fluid droplets has been well explored however, the rotation of superfluid droplets remains limited. When a superfluid droplet spins, it carries angular momentum in two ways. In order to investigate these two mechanisms we use a magneto-optical cryostat with a superconducting magnet. To properly test the superfluid helium the cryostat utilizes magnetic levitation. This method allows us to analyze the relationship between morphology and angular momentum. This experiment is set up to levitate superfluid droplets and rotate them in an electric field, then we can investigate how morphology of a rotating classical drop is different from a superfluid droplet. This approach will provide a deeper understanding of how a rotating superfluid droplet behaves and help clarify several questions in quantum turbulence research. 

Keywords: Superfluid Helium, Cryogenics, and Morphology

BIO

Hello, I am Ziraili and I am from Fort Pierce, Florida, which is a small coastal city located on the East coast in South Florida. I am majoring in in psychology and my research interests include reading comprehension, depression, anxiety, epigenetics, hormones & behavior, and phonological awareness. I aim to become a clinical psychologist in the future. Some of my hobbies include dancing, photography, going on walks, taking fitness classes such as barre and pilates, enjoying sunsets and sunrises, and watching rom-coms.

Examining the Effects of Children’s Word Specific Phonological Awareness on Word Reading Accuracy Within a Lexical Quality Theoretical Framework

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to understand on a deeper level the relationship between phonemic awareness and word reading over time. While data that explains relationships between these factors does exist, there are gaps in considering how these relationships develop and change over time.
 
Learning is characterized by the interactions between the skills of individuals (children in this project) that enable them to complete the task and/or item, which produces continued changes in the children’s lexical representations pertaining to unique words. (McClelland & Rumelhart, 1986; Nation & Castles, 2017; Rumelhart & Norman, 1978; Seidenberg & McClelland, 1989; Perfetti, 1991).
​
Previous data has been collected that demonstrates the effects of children’s word-reading abilities. This data has reflected predictors of word recognition and decoding accuracy in child levels (e.g., Gilbert et al., 2011; Goodwin et al., 2014; Kearns et al., 2016; Steacy et al., 2022). This research, however, does not investigate the phonological awareness of the child or word readings when determining predictions of word recognition accuracy.
​
​In this project, a sample of second-grade students was utilized to better understand the relationship between word recognition and reading accuracy, and phonological awareness based on Rasch-based Explanatory Item Response Models. These students have basic reading skills and developing phonological systems. This study aims to understand to what extent phonological awareness affects word reading and recognition, and the predictors of phonological, orthographic, and semantic knowledge in word reading accuracy.

Keywords: phonological awareness, lexical quality, word recognition, reading accuracy

BIO

I am a transfer student here at FSU. I am in my Junior year of biochemistry. This is the research I hope to one day explore more possibilities and discover the implications. I am excited to see what roads of research I travel next.

INVESTIGATION OF THE POTENTIAL FOR ​NEURAL INFLAMMATION INDUCED BY ​CONTINUOUS PERIPHERAL NERVE STIMULATION

Abstract

Peripheral nerve stimulation is used for chronic pain management, rehabilitation, and studying nerve responses and regeneration mechanisms. However, continuous high-frequency stimulation can overactivate the brain's somatosensory areas, potentially inducing or worsening neural inflammation. Despite its widespread use, the effects of stimulation intensity, frequency, duration, and current characteristics on neural networks like the somatosensory cortex and thalamus are not well understood.
This study aims to investigate how electrical stimulation of the rat's whisker area and forepaw affects the somatosensory cortex and thalamus. Utilizing high-speed, high-resolution functional MRI at 21.1 Tesla, we will explore how different stimulation parameters influence neural activity and the potential for inflammation. Specifically, we'll examine functional and structural changes in sensory processing networks.
We hypothesize that such stimulation activates neuroinflammatory mechanism, detectable through changes in T2-weighted images and molecular markers of inflammation. Anticipated results may show that peripheral electrical stimulation contributes to inflammation in targeted cortical regions. This study could provide insights into the mechanisms linking sensory stimulation to neuroinflammatory processes and aid in modeling or evaluating treatments for neurological conditions like neural inflammation, nerve damage, and nerve regeneration.

Keywords: Stimulation nerve inflammation