Research Symposium

BIO

Amelia Koopman is a fourth-year undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biological Science with a minor in chemistry and French. She has been involved in research in Dr. Chase's lab since August of 2023 and has recently joined Dr. Pinto's lab in the department of Biomedical Sciences, focusing on cardiac and skeletal muscle regulation and inherited diseases. After graduation, she plans to attend PA school.

The Significance of EGTA Titrations in Muscle Mechanics Experiments

Abstract

Ethylene glycol-bis(2-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid, or EGTA, is a synthetic, tetraprotic acid widely used in biological experiments that require precise regulation of calcium (Ca2+) levels. EGTA contains four carboxylic acid and two amine groups that can deprotonate and donate lone pairs to form stable complexes with metal ions, exhibiting a particularly high affinity for Ca2+ over other cations such as Mg2+, Fe2+, or Zn2+. This makes EGTA an effective chelating agent for maintaining low, stable free Ca2+ concentrations that mimic cytosolic conditions. Its binding capacity is pH-dependent which dictates the number of deprotonated carboxyl groups and available donor sites on the molecule. Optimal binding occurs around physiological pH (~7) when sufficient negatively charged donor sites are exposed and can strongly bind Ca2+. In muscle mechanics experiments, EGTA is especially valuable for studying Ca2+-mediated contraction, as muscle activation relies on Ca2+ binding to troponin C to initiate cross-bridge cycling. By using EGTA-buffered solutions with controlled amounts of free Ca2+, a relationship between Ca2+ concentration and generated muscle force can be determined in skinned muscle fiber experiments. EGTA stock solutions prepared with MOPS as a pH buffer and KCl and dH2O to simulate physiological conditions can be titrated with known Ca2+ solutions to confirm EGTA concentration as it possesses a 1:1 molar binding ratio with Ca2+. This is pivotal in muscle mechanics experiments, such as kₜᵣ analysis, where calcium concentrations must be carefully manipulated to observe muscle function at various biological conditions such as relaxing and activating conditions.

Keywords: EGTA, calcium titrations, muscle physiology

BIO

Makenna Jenkins is a fourth year undergraduate student at FSU studying Cell and Molecular Neuroscience, with a minor in Chemistry. She is currently a research assistant in the Hammock lab, a social neuroscience lab with a focus on Oxytocin, where she is also completing an Honors in the Major Thesis under Dr. Elizabeth Hammock's mentorship.  She is also a phlebotomist and research assistant in the Joiner lab which is a clinical psychology lab, with a focus on suicide, under Morgan Robison's mentorship. She holds executive positions for both The Undergraduate Chapter of the American Medical Women's Association (AMWA) and the Women Student Union (WSU), and is a Learning Assistant for Dr. Kraft's Biology II lecture. Overall, she intends to pursue an MD/PhD on her path to a career in clinical research, with a focus in neuroscience.

Is Oxytocin Involved: A study on the relationship between ACEs and meta- dehumanization

Abstract

Early trauma may increase feelings of meta-dehumanization, the belief that others view an individual as less than human. Neurobiological correlates may aid in defining this primary relationship. One such hormone may be oxytocin, a neuropeptide known to regulate social connectedness. We examined the relationship between two forms of meta-dehumanization (i.e. animalistic and mechanistic) and adverse childhood experiences with oxytocin levels acting as a moderator. It was expected that those who reported the highest levels of meta-dehumanization would have lower levels of oxytocin and a higher number of early traumatic events. Participants (N=74) completed self-report measures and fasted blood draws at baseline.
Contrary to our hypothesis, the interaction between adverse childhood experiences and oxytocin was not a significant correlate of mechanistic (b=0.02, p=0.793) or animalistic (b=0.08, p=0.191) meta-dehumanization. Importantly, the sample was underpowered; thus, these results were
preliminary in nature.​

Keywords: meta-dehumanization, oxytocin, ACE

BIO

Julia Montero is a first-year student pursuing a degree in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience at Florida State University. She is on a pre-dental track and hopes to attend dental school after graduation. She is currently a part of the Honors Program, the Presidential Scholars Program, and the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP). In the UROP program, she conducted research under her mentor, Jordan Dozier, and team of fellow research assistants during the course of her first year at FSU.

Project Bound for Reading

Abstract

When examining the structure of words, complex words can be defined as multisyllabic words with instances of letter-sound irregularity. More specifically, words are divided into monomorphemic or polymorphemic structures. "Bound-only complex words” is a term that describes polymorphemic complex words that do not include a base word with significant meaning (Dozier, 2025). Our research investigates whether bound-only complex words have a more significant variance than polymorphemic complex words with a base word when controlling for frequency, transparency, and context diversity. Because recent reading trends display that about 30% of students are at or above proficiency in their reading levels, we hope to gain insight into the main factors that affect reading development (NAEP Reading: Reading Results, 2022). Data was collected from 75+ middle-school students in the southeastern United States across a variety of assessments that examine different reading skills. The data will be run through a coding platform to determine what categories of words are more challenging for students. We expect that bound-only words will have an increased complexity rating due to the lack of a meaningful base word morpheme that provides important context to readers. The findings of this research could be significant in determining what impedes and improves reading development, particularly for older students who typically are not the subject of reading literacy research.

Keywords: Reading, Adolescent, Complex-words

BIO

Hello, my name is Aiden Vick, and I am a first year Cell and Molecular Neuroscience student planning on attaining a dual degree in Exercise Physiology. I am originally from Orlando, Florida. My research is on red tide and the impacts it creates on public health most notably respiratory health decline. Beyond research I like to golf, workout, and play with my two French bulldogs (Maple and Suki). In the future I hope to attend medical school and become a physician. I am currently very interested in the anesthesia specialty but have a very open mind looking forward.

Investigating the Impacts of Red Tide on Public Health Within the Gulf of America: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Red tide, a form of harmful algal bloom (HAB) is a very prevalent natural phenomenon along Florida's gulf coast. While the cause of red tide is widely understood and backed by science, the clinical outcomes are much less studied giving a gray area. This study's purpose is to highlight how differing proximity and concentration of HABs impact human health outcomes such as respiratory health and gastrointestinal distress. By conducting a meta-analysis along the West Florida Shelf we analyzed 62 peer reviewed articles screened by specific keywords such as “HAB” and “red tide” within the timeframe from 2006-2025 we are able to gain a greater understanding of red tide and its public health impacts. Through using non-identifying patient data we hope to correlate real visits to the HAB blooms at different times of the year. By using multiple methods, from previously published studies to clinical data collection, we hope to clear this gray area or gap of knowledge between the scientific and medical hemispheres. While we are yet to obtain any findings the team expects there to be a positive correlation between red tide bloom events and public health. This would call attention to the significance of red tide as an environmental hazard and promote solutions such as area specific alerts when concentrations are above a certain threshold, warning of public health risks.

Keywords: Biology, Evironmental Hazard, Marine Biology, Earth Science, Environmental Science

BIO

Lauren Leis is a freshman from Charlotte, North Carolina, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience with a minor in Chemistry. She is currently involved in a research project examining predictors of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) through a comprehensive meta‑analysis, working under the mentorship of Dr. Dorota Kossowska‑Kühn. Lauren will continue contributing to this project throughout the summer and fall, expanding her experience in literature synthesis, data evaluation, and the interpretation of cognitive aging research. She will also be shadowing at a Memory and Movement Clinic this summer, gaining firsthand exposure to the clinical care of patients experiencing cognitive and neurological changes.

Her academic interests center on the neural and behavioral mechanisms that shape cognition across the lifespan, and she is particularly motivated by research that informs clinical decision‑making. Lauren aspires to attend medical school and ultimately become a surgeon, where she hopes to integrate scientific inquiry with compassionate, evidence‑based patient care.

Evaluating Predictors of MCI – A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is an age‑related condition involving measurable declines in memory and other cognitive abilities. Spatial navigation and related cognitive markers are emerging as early indicators of decline, offering potential for earlier detection. An estimated 12–18% of adults over 60 meet criteria for MCI, and 10–15% of those with MCI progress to dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), each year. By 2060, roughly 13.8 million people in the United States are expected to be living with AD.
This project conducted a meta-analysis comparing cognitive task performance between individuals with MCI and age‑matched healthy controls (HC). Subgroups included amnestic MCI (aMCI) and non‑amnestic MCI (naMCI). More than 200 studies were reviewed, each including both MCI and HC participants who completed cognitive assessments or underwent brain imaging. Studies were coded by test, extracting statistical measures like mean and standard deviation for each group.
Across studies, individuals with MCI consistently performed worse than HC on tasks assessing memory, attention, visuospatial skills, and other cognitive domains. These findings suggest that cognitive assessments can support early detection and diagnosis of MCI. This is especially important because cognitive testing is non‑invasive, widely accessible, and straightforward for clinicians to interpret.
Overall, cognitive skills‑based models show strong potential for identifying MCI before substantial neurological damage occurs. Future research should incorporate longitudinal designs, standardized cognitive tasks, and diverse participant samples to improve the predictive accuracy of these assessments.

Keywords: MCI, Alzheimer's Disease, Meta-Analysis

BIO

Megan Watkins is a sophomore majoring in Public Health. She received her Associate in Arts during her last two years of high school through a dual enrollment program. Through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, she has performed research under Dr. David Berlan regarding philanthropy given by differing types of organizations after major disasters in the Big Bend area. Following her time at Florida State University, she expects to attend graduate school under a specialized Public Health program.

Disaster Aid Type in The Big Bend

Abstract

After hurricanes and other natural disasters, organizations from nonprofit, governmental, for-profit, and religious sectors mobilize to provide aid to affected communities. Understanding how different forms of aid are distributed can help improve disaster response and recovery planning. This study examines patterns of disaster-related philanthropy in Florida’s Big Bend region. Data are collected through an online Qualtrics survey distributed to organizations involved in disaster response using targeted recruitment and snowball sampling. The survey gathers information on organizational characteristics, including approximate annual expenses, types of aid provided, priority communities served, and collaboration with other organizations. Preliminary findings indicate that material aid and direct services such as supplies, rebuilding assistance, and volunteer labor are the most commonly reported forms of support, while financial assistance and grants are reported less frequently. Findings highlight variation in organizational roles and contributions during disaster recovery.

Keywords: Philanthropy, Disaster, Government, Religious, For-Profit, Non-Profit

BIO

Cassandra Holder is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry. In Spring 2024, she began her research journey as a phlebotomist and research assistant under the mentorship of Thomas Joiner, Ph.D., and Morgan Robison, M.S., working on the (completed) NIH-funded L.I.F.E. Study and a related virtual reality study. In this role, alongside consenting and leading participants, she performs blood draws from high-risk populations and processes/stores plasma samples. She helped write the proposal for the VR study, which investigates the role of simulated social exclusion in oxytocin and suicide risk using virtual reality technology.

Cassandra has been recognized on the President’s List every semester since beginning her studies and was awarded the Mae Hampton Watt Presidential Scholarship in Psychology – Leadership and Service for her work alongside Morgan Robison and for her broader mental health advocacy and student leadership.

She serves as President of RENEW, a Counseling and Psychological Services organization that supports emotional wellness among students. In this role, she facilitates instructional sessions on topics such as stress and time management, self-esteem, and healthy communication, while also coordinating outreach events, tabling, and presentations.

She is also Vice President of the non-profit IYRT and a member of the College of Medicine’s U-SSTRIDE, Psi Chi, and the Herpetology Club. Cassandra works as a medical assistant at a family medicine practice and plans to attend medical school and pursue a career as a psychiatrist, integrating clinical care with research on suicide prevention and mental health.

Is Oxytocin Involved: A study on the relationship between ACEs and metadehumanization

Abstract

Previous research suggests that early trauma increase feelings of meta-dehumanization, the belief that others view an individual as less than human. Though less explored, neurobiological correlates may aid in defining this primary relationship. One such hormone may be oxytocin, a neuropeptide known to regulate social connectedness. Thus, this study examined the relationship between two forms of meta-dehumanization (i.e. animalistic and mechanistic) and adverse childhood experiences with oxytocin levels acting as a moderator. It was expected that those who reported the highest levels of meta-dehumanization would have lower levels of oxytocin and a higher number of early traumatic events. Participants (N=74) completed self-report measures and fasted blood draws at baseline. Contrary to our hypothesis, the interaction between adverse childhood experiences and oxytocin was not a significant correlate of mechanistic (b=0.02, p=0.793) or animalistic (b=0.08, p=0.191) meta-dehumanization. Importantly, the sample was underpowered; thus, these results were preliminary in nature. Given this, future research should investigate these correlations with a larger sample to confirm either the existence or lack of a relationship between the given factors. Overall, this study provides some evidence that oxytocin does not play a role in moderating the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and animalistic or mechanistic meta-dehumanization.

Keywords: Meta-dehumanization, Oxytocin, Adverse Childhood Experiences

BIO

Mia Navarro is currently a Sophomore at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor degree in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience with an immense interest in psychological well-being and overall mental health. More specifically, she is interested in how certain environmental and social variables can affect the mental health of those living in underserved communities. Currently, she is involved in researching the ways social isolation, stress, and consumption of alcohol can affect the quality of life of citizens that live within the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), which is a population that has been classified as suffering from significant health disparities by the NIH. By utilizing statistical analyses and survey data, this study investigates how the factors that were listed are related to mental health outcomes and life satisfaction. This project's overall goal is to improve mental health services and interventions in areas that are lacking, such as the USVI. Through these efforts, Mia aspires to gain a better understanding of the disparities that are present when it comes to mental healthcare. She further plans to pursue a graduate degree in psychiatric nursing with the aspirations of becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).

An Analysis of Stress, Quality of Life and Emotional Support among USVI Adults

Abstract

This study investigates how isolation, stress, and alcohol consumption influences quality of life in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI). Understanding the quantitative relationships between these factors and life satisfaction is crucial in identifying causes of poor mental health within underserved communities. The USVI was chosen as our data supply because of its designation as an NIH health disparity population, due to high poverty rates and inadequate access to medical and behavioral health services. By identifying key factors for a reduced quality of life, this research focuses on identifying potential mental health interventions needed to improve accessibility for these services in the USVI. A literature review was conducted to identify gaps in existing research, specifically culturally and geographically contributors to life satisfaction. Survey data collected from USVI residents were analyzed to determine the association between reported stress levels, alcohol consumption, social isolation, and overall mental health outcomes. A statistical analysis was performed to identify significant indicators of decreased life satisfaction. Initial findings suggest that significant stress will signify a negative association with mental health, however alcohol consumption may not have a statistically significant relationship. Future research will be needed to examine adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) as additional predictors of long-term mental health outcomes in the USVI.

Keywords: Disparities in Mental Health, Quality of Life, Social Isolation, Perceived Stress, Life Satisfaction

BIO

My name is Ann Parry, and I am currently a freshman at Florida State University. I am originally from Safety Harbor, Florida. I love working with kids and hope to one day become a pediatric physician assistant. I am very passionate about health and helping others, which is why I chose to major in Athletic Training with a minor in Psychology. I am excited to continue learning more about health and the human body while working toward my future career in pediatric medicine.

The Effect of Isometric Handgrip Exercise Training on Aortic Stiffness Among Adults Not Meeting Exercise Requirements: A Study Protocol

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Aortic stiffness independently predicts cardiovascular disease risk. Regular exercise can lower aortic stiffness, but not enough adults meet the exercise guidelines: 150 min/week of moderate-intensity or 75 min/week of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise, and ≥2 days/week of strength training. Isometric handgrip (IHG) training is a low-barrier intervention that may lower aortic stiffness. The purpose of this investigation is to test the hypothesis that IHG training reduces aortic stiffness among adults not meeting current exercise guidelines. We will ask participants to self-report if they meet the exercise guidelines before enrolling. We will use a triple-masked, randomized, sham-control study design. Participants will complete IHG training at either 30% (active) or 5% (sham-control) of their maximum voluntary contraction, three days/week for eight weeks. Participants will complete actigraphy (ActiGraph) for one week to characterize their habitual physical activity. We will measure supine brachial blood pressure (BP) with a brachial cuff and aortic stiffness via tonometer (carotid-to-femoral pulse wave velocity [cfPWV]) pre- and post-intervention (SphygmoCor XCEL). We will enroll up to 40 participants. We have collected pre-intervention data on four participants. We report data as median[IQR]. Participant characteristics are Age: 22[4]years, Sex: 75% Female, Body Mass Index: 24.2[7.3]kg/m2, Race: 75% Asian, Ethnicity: 75% Non-Hispanic/Latine. Participants completed 91[112] min/week of moderate-intensity activity. Pre-intervention brachial BP was systolic:113[10]mmHg/diastolic:73[6]mmHg; central BP was systolic:104[6]mmHg/diastolic:74[5]; and cfPWV was 5.3[0.5]m/s. If isometric handgrip training effectively reduces aortic stiffness among adults who do not meet exercise recommendations, it may reduce cardiovascular disease risk.

Keywords: Cardiovascular, Health, Handgrip, Arterial stiffness

BIO

David R.G. is a first-year undergraduate student at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and intends to double major in Economics. As a Quest Scholar and a first-generation college student, he is committed to academic excellence and using education as a pathway to create meaningful change in his community.

In addition to his coursework, he participates in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) at Florida State University. Through this program, he contributes to a research project analyzing Bollywood films directed by women, focusing on how gender roles, cultural expectations, and social class are portrayed through clothing and visual representation. This research experience has allowed him to develop analytical, research, and collaborative skills, as well as to learn about Hindi culture while working alongside Dr. Rebecca Peters and colleagues.

David R.G. plans to attend law school after completing his undergraduate studies with the goal of becoming a family lawyer. He hopes to use his legal education to support and advocate for families, especially single mothers, who are navigating complex legal and emotional challenges. Through his studies in Political Science and Economics, he aims to build a strong foundation in law, policy, and social systems that will prepare him for a career dedicated to serving the community and strengthening familial relations.

Modesty By Age and Class in Bollywood Films

Abstract

This study involves viewing and analyzing Bollywood films directed by women. Research assistants analyzed each film using a structured coding survey designed to assess the portrayal of female and female-presenting characters. This survey includes criteria related to character centrality (e.g. protagonist status), physical appearance, behavior, relationships with other women, and overarching narrative role. All coders received training on both the coding instrument and relevant cultural contexts prior to analysis. The coding method was refined and updated throughout the research process to improve clarity and consistency. Coders recorded whether each criterion was present or absent at any point in the film for each character. To ensure reliability and accuracy, each film and character was coded by multiple participants. The research team met regularly to discuss coding criteria and resolve ambiguities. Completed surveys were edited and reviewed to verify correctness and consistency across coders. Preliminary results based on the first seven films analyzed reveal notable patterns in the portrayal of women. Across social classes, wheatish skin tone was most represented, with darker skin tones appearing more frequently among lower-class characters. Unexpectedly, upper-class women exhibited an even distribution of white, fair, dusky, and wheatish skin tones, challenging traditional Bollywood associations between skin tone and class. Most female characters did not engage in taboo behaviors; however, when present, openly flirting and dating were the most common, particularly among young adult characters. The results suggest that women directors may contribute to more diverse and less traditional representations of women in Bollywood.

Keywords: Bollywood, Modesty, Films

BIO

Helen is a transfer student from Jacksonville, Florida. She is an undergraduate student at Florida State University, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Social Work. Her goal is to build a career focused on supporting communities in need and improving the systems they rely on. She is passionate about applied research that addresses real-world challenges in service accessibility and communication. After earning her Bachelor of Science, she plans to pursue a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, aiming for a career that integrates direct service, advocacy, and research-informed practices to enhance the quality of life for people facing barriers.

Role Ambiguity Among Therapists Working With CWS-Involved Parents: The Impact of Communication Breakdowns

Abstract

Therapists working with parents involved in the Child Welfare System (CWS) find themselves in complicated systems that include caseworkers, courts, and mandated treatment. This complexity creates uncertainty for many therapists as they navigate their professional roles, especially when they find that CWS's expectations conflict with traditional therapeutic values. This mixed-methods study examined what therapists report their role is when working with parents involved in CWS and potential communication barriers. The data collected was used to look at how therapists perceive their roles, communication with CWS, and comfort working with clients involving CWS. The qualitative data collected from the interviews was analyzed to explore the ways in which therapists understand and provide meaning to their role within child welfare. These two sources of data give both breadth and depth to our understanding of role ambiguity among therapists who work with parents dealing with CWS. Results of the study suggest that many therapists experience role ambiguity when working with parents involved in CWS. Quantitative results show that therapists experience a range of perceptions regarding their role clarity and their ability to communicate effectively with CWS. In addition, the emerging themes from the qualitative data indicate that many therapists are often expected to perform multiple and conflicting roles when working with parents dealing with CWS. Therefore, confusion about what is required of them, uncertainty about how to communicate effectively with CWS, and limited collaboration with CWS result in role strain and role confusion.

Keywords: Psychology. Therapy. Counseling. Social work. HDFS.

BIO

Lily Sheehan is an undergraduate student at Florida State University, from West Palm Beach and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences on the pre-med track. She is interested in pursuing a career in medicine and is passionate about supporting aging populations and individuals with cognitive disorders. At FSU, Lily assists with research related to cognitive health and neurological conditions.

In addition to her research experience, Lily also works as a Patient Care Technician and volunteers with older adults living with dementia. Through these experiences, she hopes to continue developing the skills necessary to become a knowledgeable and patient-centered physician.

COGNITIVE SKILLS MODEL FOR PREDICTING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

Abstract

Dementia is an ongoing health crisis that affects many older adults around the world. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a pre-diagnosis for Dementia/Alzheimer's, with symptoms mirroring those with dementia, although milder. One indicator for MCI in older adults is spatial navigation, with the focus of this meta-data analysis being the differences in the cognitive function in spatial navigation between patients who had Mild Cognitive Behavior (MCI) and patients who were cognitively healthy (CH). Extraction of data used for this study included screening abstracts of articles focused on MCI, then full-text reviews of those articles, and finally in the most recent stage has included encoding of the data in the articles that passed the first two rounds of screening. As of writing this, our team has screened 1,824 articles at the title/abstract stage and 1,020 articles for the full text review stage. This is the largest meta-data analysis study for spatial navigation for people with MCI. This meta-data analysis aims to show the significance and relationship that cognitive skills related to spatial navigation have on diagnosing MCI.

Keywords: Alzheimer's, Cognitive, Memory

BIO

Annelise Driscoll is a freshman biology major in the Honors College at Florida State University. She is on a pre-veterinary track.

Investigating the Impacts of Red Tide on Public Health Within the Gulf of America: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Red tide, a form of harmful algal bloom (HAB) is a prevalent natural phenomenon along Florida's Gulf Coast. While the exact causes of red tide are universally understood and backed by science, clinical manifestations due to brevetoxin exposure are much less studied. This study's purpose is to address these gaps in knowledge in order to gain a greater understanding of red tide and its public health impacts, specifically how the proximity and concentration of HABs impact human health outcomes, including respiratory health and gastrointestinal distress. In conducting a meta-analysis along the West Florida Shelf (WFS), we analyzed 62 peer reviewed articles dated from 2006-2025 and screened by keywords such as "HAB" and "red tide." Through using non-identifying patient data, we hope to correlate bloom-induced healthcare visits to the HAB blooms. By reviewing previously published studies and collecting clinical data, we aim to clear any gray area between scientific and medical hemispheres in HAB research. While we are yet to obtain any findings, a positive correlation between red tide bloom intensity and decreased public health is predicted. This would highlight the significance of red tide as an environmental hazard and promote future public health advisories.

Keywords: Red tide, Gulf of America, Karenia brevis, respiratory effects

BIO

Sofia Tenghoff is a freshman majoring in computer science. Her research mentor is Md. Rakibul Ahasan, and she has participated in the national award-winning literary magazine, By Any Other Name. She has attended the machine learning summer program at New York University, and she hopes to become a machine learning engineer and an author after graduating.

Secure EVCS: Cyber-Physical Attack Detection for EV Charging Infrastructure

Abstract

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common, the need for secure and efficient electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs) increases. When integrated with smart grid (SG) technology, EVCSs become vital components of smart city infrastructure. However, EVCSs are often subject to cyberattacks, such as manipulations of charging parameters like start time, energy demand, and charging duration by malicious actors. This research project investigates which machine learning (ML) model performs best at detecting cyberattacks in EVCSs. Performance is measured in terms of detection rate (DR). The tested ML models include decision tree (DT), random forest (RF) support vector machines (SVM), and feed forward neural networks (FNN) The purpose of this research is to save EVCS owners time and money and to protect electric vehicle drivers’ data privacy. The methodology involved analyzing data from the ACN website, writing code that builds ML models, and training and testing those models on the data. The results show FNN as the model yielding the best DR.

Keywords: machine learning, cybersecurity, electrical vehicle

BIO

Starienne is a second-year student at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science with a double major in Risk Management and Insurance & Business Management. In addition to her majors, she is earning a certification in Leadership Studies, with a growing foundation in business strategy, risk analysis, and leadership development.

Examining Post-Disaster Fluctuations in Marketplace Metal Levels Among Florida Households

Abstract

This research investigates how natural disaster losses influence individuals’ health insurance decisions within the Florida Health Insurance Marketplace. While natural disasters are traditionally analyzed through property damage, their secondary impact on health insurance remains under-examined. Utilizing a quantitative correlational design and regression analysis of state-level datasets, this study examines whether catastrophic property losses correlate with significant fluctuations in health coverage. Specifically, the analysis explores whether Florida households offset immediate environmental shocks by changing health coverage metal status at a time of heightened vulnerability. By identifying these patterns, we can provide a framework for policy interventions that bridge the gap between disaster relief and healthcare stability.   

Keywords: Insurance, Affordable Care Act, Healthcare, Catastrophes, Health Insurance

BIO

Leila Jean-Charles is a second-year junior from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Public Health in the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy on the nursing track. Her academic interests include healthcare delivery, patient advocacy, and research focused on maternal disparities and racial disparities in healthcare. Leila works as a Monitor Technician in the Cardiovascular Medical–Surgical Intensive Care Unit (CVMSICU) at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, where she monitors cardiac rhythms and supports the clinical care team in a high-acuity environment. This experience has strengthened her interest in critical care and nursing. She also serves as the Community Service Committee Head for SISTUHS, Inc., where she organizes service initiatives and outreach efforts that support the community. Community service is something she is deeply passionate about, and she values opportunities to give back and make a meaningful impact. Leila plans to attend nursing school while completing her undergraduate degree and pursue a career as a Registered Nurse (RN). After gaining experience in critical care, she aspires to further her education and become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

Examining Developments in the Field of Collegiate Recovery Through a Descriptive Database

Abstract

Higher education institutions play a unique role in supporting the 21% to 22% of U.S. college students with substance abuse disorders. This research expands the existing CRP Descriptive Database, adding 71 new articles (increasing the total from 138 to 209) to map the current state of the field. Through descriptive synthesis and thematic mapping, we found a significant shift toward broader demographic diversity and an increase in less common methodologies, such as community-based participatory research. This project aims to bridge the gap between practice and empirical evidence (praxis) by providing a searchable resource for ARHE members and researchers to ensure program implementation is informed by sound scholarship.

Keywords: Collegiate, Recovery, Database

BIO

Sam is a second-year FSU student double-majoring in Biology and Environmental Science with a passion for ecology, evolution, and animal behavior. Her current research focuses on the courtship displays of the tropical lance-tailed manakin. In an effort to continue research after graduation, she hopes to pursue a PhD, ultimately striving for a career in conservation.

Temporal Variation in Lance-Tailed Manakin Practice Displays and Their Effect on Displays for Females

Abstract

Courtship displays in birds are complex examples of communication and reproductive selection in the animal kingdom. Exploring variation in practice courtship displays in the lance-tailed manakin (Chiroxiphia lanceolata) can shed light on how species cooperate and how they allocate energy throughout the day. Males display in pairs to attract and court females. Even though males form alliances, only the alpha of the pair copulates if the display succeeds. These displays also occur without the presence of females, both in pairs and alone. In this study, we examined whether displays without females present (DNFs) can predict displays for females (DFF) and if time of day influences the frequency of DNFs. After analyzing hours of behavioral recordings during peak breeding season, it was found that there were significantly more displays without females present in the morning (06:00 to 12:00) than there were in the afternoon (12:00 to 18:00). DNFs were not a significant predictor of DFFs. The first set of results are consistent with the idea that manakins experience higher energy levels in the morning, resulting in increased display frequency. It is also possible that female manakins have different periods of activity; males potentially use DNFs as practice displays when females are not active in the morning. The second set of data can be explained by the fact that manakins have limited energy; the males would have to sacrifice extensive amounts of energy for an increased number of DNFs, leaving less energy for DFFs later in the day.

Keywords: Biology, Animal Behavior, Courtship Displays, Manakins

BIO

Saisloka Naidu is first-year Presidential Scholar at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. She developed an early interest in healthcare and community health through leadership and service experiences in high school. Her research interests focus on public health communication and the ways messaging and education shape individual health decisions and community outcomes. Looking ahead, Saisloka hopes to build a career that bridges healthcare systems and public health, with a focus on improving population health and expanding access to care.

Natural Disaster Losses and ACA Marketplace Enrollment at the County Level

Abstract

Natural disasters disrupt employment and income, increasing the risk of losing employer-sponsored health insurance. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace provides an alternative source of coverage during economic instability. This study examined whether disaster-related financial losses were associated with increased Marketplace enrollment in the following year. County-level disaster loss data from FEMA were merged with ACA enrollment data from CMS. Disaster losses were initially associated with increased enrollment; however, after controlling for unemployment, disaster losses were no longer significant, while unemployment remained strongly predictive. These findings suggest employment disruption—not disaster damage alone—is the primary driver of increased Marketplace enrollment following disasters.

Keywords: natural disasters, insurance, ACA Marketplace,

BIO

Derek Estrada is an undergraduate 2nd year from Miami, Florida majoring in Physics & Astrophysics at Florida State University. He is extremely fascinated by the world of physics and hopes to one day take part in astrophysics research, particularly cosmology. He has recently begun particle physics research, learning the basics of programming and how to write precise lines of code to further analyze physical phenomena.

Counting the Subatomic : Extracting the 𝝎 Yield at GlueX

Abstract

The GlueX experiment, located at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility, searches for hybrid mesons and explores the light meson spectrum by utilizing a linearly polarized photon beam on a liquid hydrogen target. This research specifically focuses on analyzing the π+π-π0 final state to isolate and study the ω(782) meson. As a critical initial step, a yield study is performed to determine the number of ω to π+π-π0 events across multiple data runs, ensuring experimental consistency.

By reconstructing the invariant mass of the three-pion system and applying strategic event selection criteria—such as analyzing momentum vs. angle correlations—the signal-to-background ratio is significantly enhanced. Fits to the resulting invariant mass spectrum are then employed to separate the ω signal from background noise and extract the signal yield. These measurements form the essential foundation for future physics analysis, providing a clean and well-understood sample. Moving forward, this high-precision data will incorporate more sophisticated analysis techniques to better understand ω production mechanisms, decay dynamics, and angular distributions, ultimately offering deeper insight into the subatomic interactions governing meson structures.

Keywords: Physics, Particle Physics, Hadronic Physics

BIO

Ariana is a second-year Bachelor of Science student majoring in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry on a pre-medical track. She has earned a spot on the Dean's List for four consecutive semesters and is a QUEST scholar supporting first-generation students.
Currently, Ariana is conducting research under her mentor, Jacob Perez, about underrepresented populations and how mental health symptoms impact substance abuse, and the role of religiosity mediating that relationship.
Ariana is also involved in Alpha Chi Sigma, a Professional Chemistry Fraternity, and the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE), further illustrating her devotion to chemical sciences.
Combining her two passions–psychology and chemical sciences–she intends to enter the medical field as a psychiatrist. Driven by mental health advocacy, she hopes to improve patients' overall quality of life.

Discrimination Experiences, Coping, and Outcomes of Risk (DECOR)

Abstract

Minority populations are prone to experiencing chronic stress that contributes to mental health symptoms and substance abuse. Positive religious coping (PRC), or the use of spiritual beliefs and practices to manage stress and foster hope, has shown to protect against chronic stress and merits further investigation among minority groups. Therefore, this cross-sectional research aims to determine the relationships between internalizing mental health symptoms — namely depression, anxiety, stress — and alcohol use and whether these relationships may be moderated by PRC. This is being investigated to inform future research on prevention and intervention development for these populations. Minority populations tend to have less research regarding their health disparities, highlighting the need for this research. Prolific, an online survey recruitment tool that draws from a national sample, was used to increase the study's generalizability. Eligible participants will receive a link to the survey, which includes measures of chronic stress experience, religious activities, religious coping, substance use, and mental health symptoms. Participants include Black emerging adult (18-29) men identifying as a sexual minority. Data collection is ongoing and expected to be completed in March 2026. It is expected that PRC will significantly moderate the effects of depression, anxiety, and stress on alcohol use, such that PRC weakens the associations between internalizing mental health symptoms and alcohol use. Results will inform targets for alcohol use prevention and intervention programs (e.g., mindfulness) among intersectional groups, like gay and bisexual Black men, who experience conflicting messages about the role of religious coping in their communities.

Keywords: Psychology, minority, substance abuse, coping