Research Symposium

BIO

Jada Davidson is a sophomore at Florida State University (FSU). She is in FSU's Honors Program, majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry, and she is on a pre-medical track aiming to graduate from FSU with a Bachelor of Science. Prior to attending FSU, Jada took all honors and AP courses in high school at Pine View School in Osprey, FL, and earned her Biotechnology Aptitude and Competency Exam (BACE) Certification from the University of Florida during her final year of high school. She is interested in researching microbiology and pathology, and aims to attend medical school, where she hopes to study anesthesiology and graduate with a Medical Doctor degree.

An Elaboration Likelihood Model Analysis of Persuasion in Interactive Horror Games: A Literature Review

Abstract

This literature review looks at how video games are more complicated than what are often discussed in terms of entertainment with a focus on interactive horror media. Their interactive structure uses high elaboration and low elaboration processing depending on the player’s different choices and engagement with the content. The Elaboration Likelihood Model is used to explore how games can show different types of persuasion through different routes such as the central route which relies on story, the dialogue, and the decisions the player makes, and the peripheral route which is driven by the visuals, audio, and atmosphere. The goal is to emphasize how game elements can influence the player and their decision-making process more than just surface level entertainment. By analyzing the different environmental cues, narration, and player choice, the study highlights how interactive games can further encourage quick emotion-based responses, or a deeper though out cognitive elaboration. This work states that games can serve as a persuasion tool and gives groundwork for future research on persuasion theories in game design and storytelling that allows interaction.

Keywords: video games, horror, literature review

BIO

Gabriella Virga is a third-year Behavioral Neuroscience student from Fanwood, New Jersey. This is her fifth semester as a DIS student in the Florida Center for Reading Research on the National Project for Achievement in Twins. Her research interests include psychopathology and the physiological, behavioral, and cognitive responses to stress and mental disorders. She is a pre-medical student who aspires to be a psychiatrist in the future.

ADHD Symptoms, Executive Dysfunction, and Perceived Stress

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms and executive dysfunction are key indicators of ADHD (Combs et al., 2015). Prior research suggests that individuals with ADHD may experience persistent chronic stress disproportionate to situations that impact daily life (Oster et al., 2020). Additionally, research suggests a disparity in recognition of ADHD symptoms by sex between teachers and parents. Findings show that while teachers and parents tend to agree on male ADHD symptom reports, teachers tend to rate females significantly lower, with parents actually reporting higher female inattention (Isaksson et al., 2016). The relationship between children presenting ADHD symptoms and executive dysfunction with elevated levels of perceived stress is not fully understood, especially when accounting for sex differences. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between ADHD symptoms, executive dysfunction, and perceived stress, and the role of sex in these associations. Using data from the National Project on Achievement in Twins (NatPAT; Hart et al., 2019) study, we will examine associations between ADHD symptoms, executive dysfunction, and perceived stress using Pearson correlations, linear regressions, and general linear models to further explore these associations, before and after controlling for age and sex. We hypothesize that ADHD symptoms and executive dysfunction will both be positively correlated with perceived stress, and that males and females will exhibit differences in perceived stress. This research will help inform better in-school and at-home mental health support for students struggling with ADHD symptoms and executive dysfunction.

Keywords: ADHD, Executive Dysfunction, and Perceived Stress

BIO

Julian Raton is a first year psychology major pursuing a Bachelors degree at Florida State University's College of Arts and Sciences. He is seeking to enter academia and holds research interests in human social cognition, moral behavior, and the development of identity.

Systematic Literature Review on Webcams

Abstract

This study aims to examine the perceptions and experiences of students and educators regarding webcam usage in virtual learning contexts. Over the years, online learning has become increasingly popular, and the COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated its growth. Prior research has found mixed opinions regarding webcam usage. Some studies highlight that videoconferencing allows students and instructors to engage in real-time discussions, eliminating the need for in-person contact. Other studies indicate that many students and educators have also felt overwhelmed and hesitant about using their webcams. Based on these findings, it is important to review additional literature to gain further insight into the role webcams play from both a learner’s and instructor’s perspective to provide data for future research designed to improve webcam usage in teaching and learning environments. To conduct this study, our team located articles from three different education-focused databases that discussed the different teaching approaches taken in virtual environments. We then screened articles and only included articles that specified the use of video-conferencing tools or webcams in teaching and learning environments and summarized key themes. Based on our current articles, there was a common trend: many students and instructors believed webcams promoted engagement and social presence, while others reported exhaustion and expressed privacy concerns related to revealing personal spaces, background environments, and noise. These results suggest that webcams may be useful in online learning, but additional data is needed to help future researchers develop instructional strategies that instructors can use to improve webcam experiences in online classes.

Keywords: educational psychology, webcams, online education

BIO

Anthony Braun is a first-generation, first-year Presidential Scholar from Pompano Beach, Florida. He is currently on the Pre-Nursing track with an intended minor in child development. His research mentor for UROP is Latika Young. Other research experiences include being on the 2026 iGEM team, with David Montez and Cesar Rodriguez as faculty mentors. Anthony is excited to pursue graduate school and attain a Nurse Practitioner's license after he graduates, potentially from Florida State.

The Fear You’ll Be the Same Person When You Go Home and the Fear You Won’t": A Narrative Inquiry of First Generation in College Student Recipients of the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship​

Abstract

International education experiences cultivate global citizenship, yet barriers such as high financial costs often discourage underresourced students from accessing them. The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship (GS) aims to mitigate these obstacles by providing funding to Pell Grant-eligible first generation in college students (FGCSs), among other demographic groups. While the immediate benefits of study abroad are generally well documented, this study utilizes narrative inquiry to investigate long-term transformation in students’ lives 5-10 years “post-Gilman.” Specifically, we explore how FGCSs perceive the impact of their GS experience for their longer-term personal, social, academic, and professional goals and aspirations. This study employs Jack Mezirow’s (1978) Transformative Learning Theory, using its 10 stages of transformation, notably critical self-reflection and rational discourse. We adopt a qualitative approach by conducting survey, focus groups, and individual interviews with alumni who graduated between 2014-2019 from a southeastern U.S. university. Using a denaturalized transcription and thematic coding process, five participants will be selected for further narrative inquiry via a creative data-elicitation technique. Preliminary findings suggest that the GS has led to a profound transformation in personal and professional pathways. Participants’ international experiences were the primary catalyst for further international traveling, higher levels of confidence, resilience, and self-determination. Our results also indicate that the impact of global educational experiences extend beyond the individual, potentially impacting the participants’ broader social circles. This study spotlights the need for higher education institutions and policymakers to better understand and support FGCSs in international education engagement, for personal, professional, and social transformation.

Keywords: First Generation, Study Abroad, Narrative

BIO

Mikala Abdullah is a second-year senior from Weeki Wachee, Florida, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance. She is an active participant in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), where she studies Health Insurance Enrollments in Louisiana Following Hurricane Katrina under the mentorship of Dr. Born. Her research analyzes data to evaluate how a catastrophic event can impact insurance enrollment trends.

In addition to her research experience, Mikala has gained industry exposure through her compliance internship with FrankCrum. In this role, she contributes to regulatory research, licensing processes, and corporate compliance initiatives, strengthening her understanding of insurance operations and governance.

Mikala plans to pursue a Master of Science in Risk Management and Insurance to further expand her expertise. Her long-term career goal is to pursue a career in cyber risk analysis within the insurance industry, where she can contribute to managing emerging technological risks.

Health Insurance Enrollments In Louisiana Following Hurricane Katrina

Abstract

This study examines how health insurance enrollment and direct written premiums in Louisiana changed by using statewide data from 2001 to 2010 to analyze trends before and after the disaster. It compares three key periods: the pre-disaster years (2001–2004), the immediate aftermath (2005–2007), and the later recovery period. The findings show a disruption in both enrollment and premiums around 2005, indicating a short-term shock to the insurance market. However, trends gradually stabilized in the following years, suggesting recovery rather than a permanent decline in coverage. Overall, the study concludes that large disasters may temporarily disrupt insurance markets without causing long-term contraction and recommends that future research incorporate more detailed data, including distinctions between public and private insurance coverage.

Keywords: Insurance, Health Insurance, Hurricanes

BIO

As a second-year psychology major and sociology minor from the Bahamas, Migueal has always had a passion for psychology. Participating as a crisis hotline counselor gave him the drive to pursue his passion for psychology with rigour.

Meta-Analysis in Determining a Comprehensive Prediction Criteria for Developmental Dyslexia

Abstract

Developmental dyslexia, onset by genetic mutation and alternative brain development, is defined as a difficulty in language processing and literacy. As much as this form of neurodivergence is common, the mode of diagnosis for developmental dyslexia seems to often fall short of its interventive power. It is a widespread misconception that children cannot be diagnosed with dyslexia without years of reading instruction, but data from various studies show that it is, in fact, possible to predict dyslexia in children aged four to five years old. This meta analysis seeks to consolidate thousands of articles from scholarly sources and scientific journals to further strengthen the idea that three predictors of dyslexia— phonological processing impairment, poor response to instruction, and family history of dyslexia— are reliable modes of early prediction and diagnosis. With a model-based approach to meta-analysis (MASM) and a team of several reviewers, each article is title and abstract screened, reviewed, and extracted to create a proportional model of how much each factor contributes to the diagnosis and prediction of dyslexia. Though still in progress, the meta-analysis has made significant advancements in its process of screening and extraction and is working towards a promising and informative result.

Keywords: Dyslexia, Causes of Dyslexia, Reading Comprehension

BIO

Sofia Lopez is a sophomore at Florida State University pursuing dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Biological Sciences and Psychology, with a minor in Chemistry. She is an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Richard Nowakowski’s laboratory at the FSU College of Medicine, where she works under the mentorship of Dr. Grace Hammel. Her research investigates neuroinflammation following spinal cord injury, with a focus on myelin debris clearance, endothelial cell responses, and the mechanisms driving secondary injury. She is particularly interested in translational research examining how dysregulated inflammatory pathways contribute to disease progression, including in cancer and tissue injury.
In addition to her research, Sofia works with HCA Healthcare, where she is gaining clinical experience in a hospital setting. She is actively involved in the Medical Response Unit (MRU), where she continues to build her clinical and emergency response skills. She also volunteers with Remote Area Medical (RAM), providing care at mobile clinics that expand access to healthcare in underserved communities. Through these experiences, she has developed a strong commitment to improving healthcare access and addressing disparities in care. Sofia is also preparing to serve as a UROP Leader, where she will mentor undergraduate students and support their development in research. She plans to pursue medical school following graduation.

Endothelial Myelin Debris Clearance and Its Contribution to Secondary Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract

One of the most consequential secondary responses to spinal cord injury is the accumulation of myelin debris, which initiates and amplifies the inflammatory cascade that shapes long-term recovery. These debris fragments contain inhibitory molecules and neurodegenerative side effects that drive strong inflammatory signaling, disrupt repair processes, and block axonal regrowth. Myelin debris also stimulates macrophages, microglia, and endothelial cells, ultimately prolonging inflammation and worsening overall outcomes.The purpose of this study was to investigate how myelin debris clearance, specifically by endothelial cells, contributes to injury progression. To address this, the project integrated immunocytochemistry with a literature-based analysis. Immunocytochemistry was used to stain cells for markers of immune activation and phagocytic signaling. These methods demonstrated that exposure to myelin debris rapidly activated inflammatory pathways and induced structural changes in both macrophages and endothelial cells, visually confirming mechanisms previously described in SCI literature.The literature analysis further examined why myelin debris provokes strong inflammatory signaling and how different cell types contribute to either productive clearance or pathological overactivation. Recent studies showed that endothelial cells, although considered “amateur” phagocytes, engulfed myelin debris and initiated pathways leading to outcomes such as angiogenesis and fibrosis. Overall, the findings indicated that the consequences of myelin debris clearance depend heavily on the cellular pathways involved. While debris removal is necessary for healing, dysregulated processing can worsen tissue damage.

Keywords: Neuroinflammation, Spinal Cord Injury, Myelin Debris Clearance, Endothelial Cell Activation, Secondary Injury

BIO

Juan "Jack" Lopez is a Sophomore student pursuing International Affairs and Political Science. He is a QUEST Scholar who is involved in several organizations across the university, with the ultimate goal of pursuing a career in public service or private international law.

Responses to Labor Regulation Enforcement: The role of the USMCA’s Rapid Response Mechanism on Labor Market Outcomes in Mexico

Abstract

Designed to be at the vanguard of enforceable labor
rights in trade agreements, the USMCA’s Rapid
Response Mechanism (RRM) was conceptualized to
protect collective bargaining rights and strengthen labor
standards in Mexico. This paper examines the
cumulative impact of RRM investigations on wages,
employment composition, and job quality across
Mexican states and cities, leveraging facility-level case
variation and quarterly labor data. The findings reveal a
sequential adjustment process, rather than immediate,
uniform gains for workers. In the short run, RRM
enforcement is associated with an increase in worker
displacement, shown by an immediate decline in
permanent or unionized employment contracts,
followed by an increase in non-agricultural informal
employment. However, in longer posttreatment
evaluations, RRM enforcement is associated with
increased reported job-quality indicators, such as
increases in non-mandated employment benefits,
plausibly demonstrating the recognition and
enforcement of collective bargaining agreements
central to the RRM.

Keywords: USMCA, free trade agreement, labor, rights, treaties

BIO

Matthew Hutchins, originally from Titusville, Florida, is currently a senior Biomedical Engineering student in the Honors in the Major program at Florida State University with a strong interest in cell and tissue engineering. He is constantly drawn to the forefront of scientific innovation and hope to channel my background into an industry role in medical device development, product strategy, or technical support that contributes to meaningful advances in human health. His commitment to advancing biotechnological solutions reflects his ambition to leave a lasting impact on global health.

The Effects of Alzheimer’s Disease Genotype on Tannic Acid-Coated Extracellular Vesicles for Targeted L-Carnitine Delivery

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide and currently lacks an effective cure. A major obstacle in therapeutic development lies in the restricted permeability of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), which prevents most drugs from reaching targeted neural regions. Nanomedicine-based approaches have emerged as promising solutions, with extracellular vesicles (EVs) offering biocompatible and naturally derived carriers capable of crossing biological membranes. However, inconsistent stability and limited drug loading efficiency have hindered their widespread application in neurodegenerative therapy. This research aims to enhance vesicle stability and therapeutic potential through the development of a tannic acid (TA) and iron chloride (FeCl₃)–based coating, forming metal–phenolic complexes on the surface of lipid vesicles. These coatings are designed to improve membrane robustness and enable controlled binding of therapeutic molecules such as L-carnitine, a neuroprotective compound known to mitigate oxidative stress and support mitochondrial function. Fluorescent liposomes will serve as model systems to optimize coating parameters and assess fluorescence uniformity using fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) functionalization. It is anticipated that TA–Fe³⁺ coated liposomes will exhibit improved coating uniformity and enhanced encapsulation stability compared to uncoated controls. Results from these preliminary studies will provide foundational data for translating this coating approach to biologically derived EVs, advancing the development of targeted nanocarriers for Alzheimer’s therapy.

Keywords: EV, Coating, Tannic Acid

BIO

Hi, my name is Jenna Haupert. I am a third-year Behavioral Neuroscience and Business Management dual major from Parkland, Florida. I am on the premedical track with the goal of owning my medical practice one day. I am currently conducting research at FSU’s Coastal and Marine Laboratory under the mentorship of Dr. Alyssa Andres, studying the thermal tolerance of different fish species through metabolic and behavioral analysis. Additionally, I serve as a Crew Leader for FSU’s Medical Response Unit, where I volunteer as an EMT, gaining hands-on emergency medical experience. I am also a member of FSU’s Honors Program and Student Association.

A Comparison of Atlantic Stingray and Hardhead Catfish Thermal Tolerance

Abstract

As ocean temperatures continue to rise under climate change and the frequency and prevalence of marine heatwaves increase, it is imperative to understand the diversity of fish species' responses and the vulnerability of fish populations to these environmental stressors. The Atlantic stingray (Dasyatis sabina) and hardhead catfish (Ariopsis felis) are two coastal fish species that have been chosen as models for examining differences in thermal tolerance since they inhabit similar habitats but differ in energetic demands, activity levels, and family lineage. This study aims to identify differences in thermal tolerance between model species by comparing critical threshold temperatures known to limit fish survival. Critical thermal thresholds were defined by the temperature at which each individual experienced neurological and behavioral impairment, known as the critical thermal maximum (CTmax). Subjects were exposed to acute 48-hour acclimations at two starting water temperatures, 30ºC and 34ºC. Water temperature was increased by 0.1ºC until their CTmax was reached. We found that, despite hardhead catfish having a higher CTmax on average than Atlantic stingrays across both starting temperatures, both species had higher CTmax after 34ºC acclimation than after 30ºC acclimation. These findings suggest that Atlantic stingrays appear more sensitive, and would likely vacate habitat sooner, and that thermal thresholds are sensitive to short-term acclimation. This suggests that both species can bolster thermal tolerance with higher acclimation temperatures, up to a point. This research can be used to improve the predictability of species and ecosystem dynamics models in an era of climate change.

Keywords: Fish, temperature, physiology,

BIO

Malak Ghandour is a third-year Criminology (Bachelors of Science) student with minors in History, Psychology, and Arabic Language. She has been involved greatly within the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice, developing her interest in the biosocial perspective of criminology over the past 3 years. She has been an active member of the criminology fraternity Lambda Alpha Epsilon since 2025, and is also a research assistant on Dr. Sylwia Piatkowska's hate crime and education project, "Understanding Bias in K–12 Schools: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Victimization, Policy, and Structural Influences". Outside of the criminology program, Malak Ghandour is also greatly involved in the Middle-Eastern Studies program at Florida State University. She is an executive officer in the Arabic Honor Society and has won achievement awards for proficiency in Arabic Language. She is also currently conducting a Directed Individual Study on Arabic folklore music and its regional variances. Recently, she has been accepted into the Criminology PhD program at Florida State University with the guidance of Dr. Piatkowska, Dr. Brian Stults, and Dr. Zafer Lababidi, along with various graduate assistants within the program. Her prospective research targets are criminal legal policy application to neurodivergent persons and biosocial influences on deviant behavior.

Understanding Bias in K–12 Schools: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Victimization, Policy, and Structural Influences

Abstract

Hate crimes and bias-motivated harassment in U.S. K–12 schools have drawn sustained attention from policymakers, scholars, and the public as incidents in educational settings have become more visible in national reporting. Federal intervention through the Hate Crime Statistics Act mandated the systematic collection of hate crime data by the FBI, increasing transparency around bias-related incidents occurring in schools. Despite this federal data infrastructure, responsibility for prevention and response largely remains at the state level, where legislative approaches vary considerably.
By examining the variations and effectiveness of state-level school policies, the research seeks to determine whether stronger legislative policies are associated with improved outcomes and safer educational environments. Through a review of statutes, legislative records, and state constitutional provisions across all 50 states, policies are coded and scored on the basis of protected groups, enforcement mechanisms, institutional scope, and representational inclusivity. Comparative quantitative analysis incorporates controls for political affiliation, regional crime rates, demographic composition, and socioeconomic conditions to isolate policy effects.
Preliminary findings reveal substantial interstate variation in policy strength, with more comprehensive protections often concentrated in northern states. Democratic-sponsored policies generally receive higher inclusivity scores than Republican-sponsored legislation, though further statistical testing is required to establish causal relationships. The current findings provide a foundation for future research using national databases to assess long-term policy outcomes and their impact on reducing hate-related incidents in schools. These insights will empower policymakers to implement effective, evidence-based strategies that safeguard marginalized students and ensure equitable, high-quality educational experiences for all communities.

Keywords: K-12, Bias, Education, Schools, Policy

BIO

Ellia Uminn is a first-year Florida State University student majoring in pre-international affairs, with a minor in French and Arabic. In her free time, she loves to watch movies, read, and rock climb. Swan Lake allows her to explore how a single piece of art can create deep cultural connections and transcend borders.

Pop Culture Movements: Swan Lake Unfolded

Abstract

Pop Culture Movements: Swan Lake Unfolded examines how Swan Lake and its symbols relate to popular culture, particularly in the television shows Bridgerton, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Ted Lasso. Scholars have extensively documented Swan Lake’s influence on dance and performance history, but there is little research dedicated to the ballet’s social influence in modern media. Historical precedent demonstrates the lasting impact Swan Lake has had on popular culture, and the ballet’s socio-cultural significance shows itself in the hidden allusions that appear in widely consumed entertainment. The methodology includes the analysis of three television series and the coding of recurring motifs and themes through collective discourse. Scholarly articles and contemporary media publications relevant to the research scope also contribute to the sample of media coded for thematic connections to Swan Lake. This humanities-based qualitative research is ongoing and examines themes of dual identity, power, and restriction through collaboration with a diverse network of interdisciplinary scholars and practitioners. These patterns suggest that classical art remains embedded in modern storytelling, even when audiences may not consciously recognize the connection. For pop culture audiences, our findings highlight the importance of media literacy and understanding how historical works shape present-day narratives. The group is in the final stages of developing a podcast and companion website to present these findings in an accessible format. Together, these platforms demonstrate Swan Lake’s lasting cultural influence beyond traditional performance spaces.

Keywords: Ballet, Swan, Dance, Lake

BIO

Madelyn Thompson is a 3rd year Psychology major and an aspiring Clinical Psychologist. After finishing her undergraduate career with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, she hopes to join a Clinical Psychology PhD program to continue research in the field of Clinical Psychology. Madelyn’s current research interests include the areas of anxiety, anxiety sensitivity, as well as the development of anxiety and related disorders throughout the lifespan, with hopes to expand to etiology research in other domains of maladaptive psychopathologies. Madelyn currently assists with research in the Platypus Lab under The Florida Center for Reading Research, The Anxiety and Behavioral Health Clinic, and is a Registered Behavioral Therapist for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Disentangling Genetic and Environmental Influences on the Development of Childhood Anxiety Symptoms

Abstract

Previous research outlines that 10-20% of children worldwide live with maladaptive psychological disorders, including anxiety; which continues to develop and persist into adulthood (Durbeej, et al., 2019). In the context of anxiety, 20% of American children are living with an anxiety disorder (Masi, et al., 2012), making anxiety among the most common psychological disorders. Despite this, little is known about the exact epidemiology and risk factors for the development of anxiety disorders. Initial findings from personal research conducted via a correlational twin study yielded that monozygotic twin pairs correlated significantly higher with each other than dizygotic twin pairs on measures of childhood anxiety, which suggests genetic effects on the development of anxiety symptoms. Results also showed a positive and significant correlation between parental distress and
childhood anxiety, and significant sex differences, with females scoring higher on measures of anxiety symptoms. This suggests that there are many components to the development of child anxiety symptoms which includes: genetic variations, parental distress, and sex differences. The current study will build off this preliminary background to outline future statistical methods that will further research within the field. This will be achieved through the proposed statistical analyses, which will include univariate Cholesky
decomposition models, utilized to break down the effects of genetic contributions, shared environmental, and unique environmental influences on the development of anxiety symptoms via twin study. These models will also be adjusted to better understand how sex differences, age, and measures of parental distress contribute to the development of childhood anxious psychopathologies

Keywords: Child anxiety and twin study

BIO

Leen is a third-year student at Florida State University majoring in political science and economics. Coming from a multicultural environment of the Tampa Bay area as a Mexican-American has profoundly shaped his character and influenced his academic interests and aspirations, particularly with the goal of working in international governance. Since he's had experience with participating in Model UN programs, he aims in working for international organizations. This project marks his first experience participating in research, an opportunity he has found both exciting and meaningful. It has allowed him to bridge his personal background with his professional ambitions, connecting lived experience to academic inquiry. In the future Leen plans on going to graduate school to for international relations, followed by law school, continuing to build toward a career focused on global policy and advocacy.

What It Means to Be Latino: Exploring Identity Among U.S.-Born Gen Z Youth

Abstract

This research project investigates the complexity of identity within the United States, specifically that of Latino's born within a new generation - Generation Z. The purpose of this dissection of such a niche identity being the influence they have on society and vis versa, noting significant tensions between imposed categorizations and self-identification. Within this research project there has been a multitude of methods conducted in effort to assist in the investigation such as literature review of historical and statistical analysis, and in-person interview of human subjects.
We investigated the historical aspect of Latinos within the United States, through literature review noting a demonstration of a societal pattern in formation in individual structure that exists.

Keywords: Hispanic, culture, identity, multicultural, Gen Z

BIO

Jonathan Espinoza is a second year honors student at Florida State University, majoring in Political Science and Finance. His research mentor is James Strickland, He wants to go to law school some time after graduation do public interest law.

Transparency in Florida Lobbying

Abstract

Across the counties of Florida, there is significant variation in how lobbying records
are maintained and made available. Lobbying, attempting to influence legislative
processes through oral or written communication, is an essential part of the
legislative process, and registration of lobbyists is important for transparency and
accountability in local governments. This research utilized online county websites to
examine the gaps in the current lobbyist database across all 67 counties of Florida. By
accessing each website on a 6-factor scale, each county was assigned a transparency
score, and then transparency scores were compared across counties. Results found
that the overwhelming majority of Florida counties lack a lobbyist database. Out of
those that do provide a database, many scored low on the transparency scale due to
difficulty of website navigation, lack of contact information, little historical lobbying
data, etc. By assessing and comparing these record differences, this research
demonstrates how the overall lack of lobbyist data decreases accountability of local
governments, can create a sense of distrust among the government and constituents,
and prevents constituents from knowing who influences local government decisions.
Additionally, this lack of transparency makes it hard for citizens to be informed when
voting for politicians and propositions. Based on the research collected, this project
helps bring more transparency and accountability to and begins to close gaps in
lobbyist data collection.

Keywords: Political Science, Lobbying, Florida

BIO

Matthew Baca is a first-year undergraduate student at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology on the pre-health track. Originally from Miami, Florida, he graduated from MAST@FIU with both a high school diploma and an Associate of Arts degree from Florida International University.
Matthew has gained early clinical exposure through shadowing experiences in dermatology and ear, nose, and throat (ENT), where he observed patient care, diagnostic processes, and treatment planning. He is also actively involved on campus as a University Ambassador, where he leads campus tours and engages with prospective students and families. Additionally, he has participated in and facilitated the Service Leadership Seminar, contributing to service initiatives such as supporting the Food for Thought pantry and working with Habitat for Humanity.

His interests include human health, community engagement, and improving patient experiences. Matthew plans to pursue medical school and a career as a physician.

A Brief Digital Health Intervention Was Associated with Less Pain and Anxiety in the Clinic Waiting Room

Abstract

Shepherd’s Hope is a multi-specialty free clinic serving uninsured, low-income patients in Central Florida. While the quality of care is excellent, wait times at the clinic often exceed 3 hours, contributing to stress, discomfort, and dissatisfaction in patients. Brief mindfulness-based interventions are effective in reducing pain intensity, pain unpleasantness, and anxiety during idle wait times, though little research has been done on the efficacy of brief MBIs in low-income, uninsured, and linguistically diverse populations. This study evaluated the effects of a 4.5-minute, audio-guided MBI on acute pain and anxiety symptoms among patients at Shepherd’s Hope (n=67) relative to a pain education control condition. The main effect of time for anxiety, (F(1, 41) = 8.68, p = .005, partial η² = .18), pain unpleasantness (F(1, 41) = 8.17, p = .007, partial η² = .17), and pain intensity (F(1, 44) = 4.84, p = .033, partial η² = .10) indicates that anxiety and pain symptoms decreased from pre- to post-intervention. For anxiety, there was a significant time × group × sample interaction (F(1, 41) = 4.59, p = .038, partial η² = .10), indicating that changes in anxiety over time varied by intervention type and language sample. Interest in additional pain management resources also differed significantly depending on language (χ²(1, N = 64) = 6.22, p = .013) and pain chronicity (χ²(1, N = 64) = 4.44, p = .035). The results suggest that brief, audio-delivered interventions can meaningfully decrease clinical symptoms during the idle time spent waiting for care.

Keywords: Health Intervention Mindfulness

BIO

Abigail Patterson is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at Florida State University. She conducts research at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory on high-gradient magnetic separation of weakly magnetic nanoparticle suspensions, with a focus on particle behavior around magnetized spheres and the effects of magnetic field strength and geometry.

Abigail is interested in renewable materials and rare earth separations and is exploring future opportunities in engineering and related fields.

High Gradient Magnetic Separation of Weakly Magnetic Nanoparticle Suspension Around a Sphere

Abstract

This study investigates the magnetophoresis behavior of weakly magnetic nanoparticle suspensions using spheres in a non-uniform magnetic field. Experiments were conducted with paramagnetic manganese oxide and diamagnetic bismuth oxide nanoparticles at various concentrations (10–100 mg/L) and magnetic field strengths (0.25–1 T). Paramagnetic nanoparticles were attracted toward the spheres, forming small vortices and concentrating near the surface. Their separation dynamics depended on sphere diameter, concentration, magnetic field. In contrast, diamagnetic bismuth oxide nanoparticles exhibited good separation with spheres, showing an increased response compared to wires, with the same range of concentration and magnetic field. Numerical simulations confirmed the formation of particle clusters for both types of nanoparticles, especially under high magnetic field strengths, highlighting new insights into their magnetophoretic behavior with spheres.

Keywords: High-Gradient Magnetic Separation, Nanoparticle Transport Magnetophoresis, Magnetic Field Gradients , Rare Earth Separation

BIO

Tristan Sambrano is a first-generation Presidential Scholar at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. Originally from Homestead, Florida, he is passionate about healthcare and improving patient outcomes through science and education. He has developed strong interests in pharmacology and the role medications play in managing chronic conditions and enhancing quality of life. At Florida State University, Tristan is actively involved in student leadership and health education initiatives, where he enjoys working with peers to promote wellness and informed decision-making. These experiences have strengthened his commitment to patient-centered care and effective communication in healthcare settings. He plans to pursue a career in pharmacy, where he hopes to make a meaningful impact by providing accessible, knowledgeable, and compassionate care.

The Cost of Care: Eosinophilic Esophagitis in the U.S.

Abstract

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory disease of the esophagus that requires long-term management and repeated medical interventions. Although its clinical features are well documented, less is known about its economic impact. This study examines how EoE contributes to annual healthcare expenditures in the United States and evaluates whether individuals with EoE incur higher costs compared to those without the condition.

A structured literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify U.S.-based studies published from 2010 to present. MeSH terms were applied within PubMed to refine searches, combining “eosinophilic esophagitis” with economic keywords such as cost, healthcare utilization, and financial burden. Articles were screened based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and both qualitative and quantitative findings—including study design, cost estimates, utilization measures, limitations, and key takeaways—were analyzed. Data were organized using Mendeley as a citation management tool.

Findings indicate that individuals with EoE consistently experience higher healthcare expenditures than those without the condition. Annual per-patient costs ranged from approximately $3,000 to over $10,000, with national cost estimates between $500 million and $1.36 billion. Increased costs were largely driven by outpatient visits, endoscopic procedures, medications, and specialist care, reflecting the chronic and resource-intensive nature of the disease.

Overall, EoE represents a significant and growing economic burden in the U.S. healthcare system. These findings contribute to a clearer understanding of the financial impact of EoE and highlight the need for improved management strategies and cost-effective care approaches.

Keywords: Eosinophilic Esophagitis, Economic Burden, Healthcare Costs, Healthcare Utilization, Chronic Disease

BIO

Rafael Merdinger is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a minor in Chemistry at Florida State University on a pre-medical track. Originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, he is an International Baccalaureate diploma recipient and Dean's List honoree. Through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), he investigates divergent thinking and creativity differences between humans and artificial intelligence under the mentorship of Nelufar D. Radpour. Beyond his coursework, Rafael is authoring an independent book exploring neuroscience and human behavior. His research interests lie at the intersection of cognition, neuroscience, and human perception, and he aspires to a career in cardiovascular or neurological surgery.

Divergent naming task and creativity in humans vs. artificial intelligence

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) systems increasingly perform tasks that resemble human perceptual processing, yet differences remain in how visual information is interpreted. Prior research suggests that humans rely primarily on global shape features when categorizing objects, whereas Al systems often rely more heavily on texture-based features.

The present study examines differences between human participants and Al outputs in the interpretation of abstract visual stimuli lacking recognizable real-world meaning. Abstract two-dimensional images were presented to college-aged participants via a Qualtrics-based survey platform. Participants generated novel names and perceptual ratings for each image. Al systems separately produced names for the same stimuli using structured prompts. Responses will be evaluated using quantitative creativity scoring and statistical comparisons. This study aims to provide insight into perceptual and generative differences between humans and AI, specifically in cases of zero and few-shot learning (in which prior training data is sparse or non-existent)

Keywords: AI Artificial Intelligence Human Cognitive Psychology

BIO

Elle Daily is a senior majoring in Biomathematics and Environmental Science interested in theoretical ecology. She is currently in two research labs: one with Dr. Micheal Cortez studying optimal inducible defenses and another with Dr. Emily Duval studying coordination in Lance Tailed Manakins. She will be pursuing a PhD in Biology after she graduates.

Modeling the Optimal Reaction Norm for Inducible Defenses

Abstract

Inducible defenses are defense mechanisms that prey species deploy when they sense predators and do not deploy when predators are absent, which often comes at a cost to the prey's reproduction. The prey’s reaction norm determines how much prey defend themselves as predator densities increase. The main goal of this paper was to derive the shapes of prey reaction norms using calculus of variation where it is assumed the induced responses of the prey maximize prey fitness. I first analyzed the Lotka-Volterra predator-prey model 𝑑𝑥/𝑑𝑡=𝑥[𝑟(𝛼)−𝑎(𝛼)𝑦] where x is prey density, α is rate of induction, y is predator density and r and a are functions that represent reproductive success and predator attack success respectively, both of which decrease as prey defense increases. I find that the optimal reaction norm is either (a) a step function where defense switches from no defense to maximum defense when predator density surpasses a threshold value or (b) a nonlinear function where defense gradually increases with predator density. I show that the specific shape of the reaction norm depends on how the prey’s reproduction rate (r) and the predator’s attack rate (a) decrease with prey defense. My results help explain how prey respond to predators and provide tools for making more accurate predictions about the dynamics of predator-prey systems. Other models that will be analyzed to represent other types of functional responses and compared include exponential and logistic forms for each term.

Keywords: inducible defenses