BIO

Jaliyah is currently a sophomore majoring in Biochemistry with a minor in STEM Entrepreneurship. She is a member of the Alpha Chi Sigma chemistry fraternity on campus, and she works at the FSU Biomedical Research Facility. Her long-term career goal is to attend graduate school to become a veterinary surgeon, but, as of late, she has also been considering getting a PhD in research, so she is open to the career path each possibility presents to her.

Because of UROP, Jaliyah is becoming increasingly interested in research. She is interested in a broad variety of molecular biology and biochemical research, specifically relating to genetics and biochemical pathways. Thus, she is looking forward to continuing to participate in research projects throughout her remaining years at Florida State.

DETERMINING THE ROLE OF DDT4 IN PARAMUTATION OF THE B1 TANDEM REPEAT IN ZEA MAYS

Abstract

In Zea mays, the booster 1 gene locus (b1) tandem repeat (b1TR) interacts with a network of chromatin binding proteins to influence b1 expression. Prior research suggests DDT4 may  be one of these interacting proteins, and we are currently testing the DNA binding ability of the protein to this sequence by performing a Yeast-1 hybrid assay. We are using the commonly used plasmid vectors pLacZi and pEXP-AD502  as backbones  for our bait and prey constructs respectively. The DDT4 yeast construct will be built via Gibson assembly, sequenced via Primordium, and purified via gel purification. We will have three positive control prey plasmids (PVC mieszko, cibur, and stojgniew). The Saccharomyces cerevisiae (bakers’ yeast) RTY300 strain will be transformed with these plasmids through our collaboration with the Yu Lab, which specializes in yeast research. The presence or absence of positive yeast colonies after the hybrid assay will be used to analyze DDT4’s binding abilities and relationship to the b1TR. The results of this experiment will contribute to the growing data the scientific community has on the complex RNA-directed epigenetic processes in plants.

Keywords: maize, molecular biology, genetics, protein, yeast-1 hybrid assay, DDT4, b1TR

BIO

Hello! My name is Lucie Grace Lovato, and I am a first-year student from Pensacola, Florida majoring in English with a concentration in Literature, Media, and Culture. Along with being an Honors student here at FSU, I am also a member of the Presidential Scholars class of 2026. My research interests revolve around gender studies, which is part of what lead me to work on this project over the past year. Once I complete my undergraduate studies, I am hoping to continue my education by attending law school.

Ungentlemanly Warfare: Historical Research Research on Women Spies of the Special Operations Executive

Abstract

The Special Operations Executive was founded during the Second World War. This organization's main mission was espionage and irregular warfare. The roles and contributions of the SOE are often attributed towards men, with men receiving the majority of the awards post WWII. However, through research and data that has been collected, it has been discovered that the role of women in the SOE is overlooked and undervalued. Many of these women faced substantial hardships and their names and stories should be recognized at the same level as their male counterparts. This study uses literature analysis, historical record analysis, and transcriptions in order to bring to light the experiences and contributions of these women that are so often repressed. The data collected from text is coded and focuses on the use of gendered language throughout the literature studied. Transcriptions included oral interviews detailing first-hand experiences in the Special Operations Executive. The focus of this study was to not only collect this data, but to also give credit and a name to the women who were involved in the SOE. Preliminary results found that the involvement of women was consistently understated, if women were mentioned at all. By expanding our understanding of the past, we can better analyze of the present. Further efforts can be made to combat sexism and prejudice in the modern workplace and social environment.
Key words: Special Operations Executive, gendered language, sexism, World War II, F Section, espionage

Keywords: espionage, gendered language, Special Operations Executive

BIO

Hello. My name is Kyla Booker. I am a 2nd-year chemical engineering student from Tampa, FL and an aspiring surgeon. I look forward to continuing my research in ceramic particle-polymer composites for medical radiation.

3D Printing of Ceramic Particle-Polymer composites for Medical radiation shielding

Abstract

Currently, lead is used as a radiation shield in the medical field. Lead is a heavy-weight harmful substance that the medical community is trying to astray from. Cardiac Device Implant procedures have been trying to implement a bismuth drape to protect the patients as well as the surgical team. While performing cardiac device implants, fluoroscopy is used. The duration and complexity of this procedure leaves the surgeons at risk of exposure to radiation[1]. Our research is centered around using a 3-D printing technique to create an inorganic radiation-shielding material to replace lead for X-ray protection. Using a 3D printer allows us to produce various viscosities of this material on a smaller scale to determine which biomechanical property will be best for radiation protection and flexibility of a glove. We specifically use a 3D printer to create ceramic particle-polymer composites using a standard weight of Polystyrene-block-polyisoprene-block-polystyrene (SIS) and various ratios of Bismuth (III) oxide. The purpose of this mixture of SIS and bismuth oxide allows for both material’s properties to be illustrated in the product.We are testing the radioactive efficiency of this polymer material to later produce a lightweight, flexible, and comfortable x-ray protective gloves.
Upon the success of this project, the production of this polymer-material will serve as an effective way of preventing radiation exposure which can cause damage to DNA cells and cancer later in life.

Keywords: 3D radiation shielding

BIO

I am a junior majoring Communication Science Disorders from New Castle, Delaware. After finishing my undergraduate degree, I plan on attending graduate school to earn a master's degree in Speech Language Pathology. I am most interested in studying how humans acquire more than one language and am currently working to complete the Multilingual Services Certificate. Some extra-circulars I am involved in besides UROP, include the National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association (NSSLHA), Best Buddies, and the Society of Collegiate Scholars. I also participated in FSU's International Program First Year Abroad last year.

Learning A Second Language Subconsciously

Abstract

Second language learning is taught in the majority of schools across the globe in order to communicate and collaborate with one another. This study looks into one specific type: unconscious learning. In the data collection stage, participants in China, who have learned English in many different ways, were surveyed. The participants all looked at the same graphics put in front of them and then told the story they saw in their own words, in English. These results were then taken and rated on 2 factors: comprehensibility and accentedness. The results are then going to be analyzed and compared. The goal is to discover the influence that unconscious second language acquisition has on the language learning process and how these results differ from those in a traditional learning environment.

Keywords: Language-learning, ESL, Language aptitude

BIO

My name is Erica Darcy, and I am a first-year FSU student from Daytona Beach, Florida. I am currently studying as a Studio Art Major with a Minor in Anthropology, and my research interests mainly fall between these two. This is reflected in my current project, which focuses on both portraiture and the fashion of 200 years ago.

What a Painting Represents: Fashion and the Life of Catherine Murat in 1837

Abstract

In 1837, French portrait artist Jacques Amans painted Princess Catherine Murat, the great-grandniece of George Washington and wife of Prince (and lieutenant-colonel) Achille Murat, as their paths crossed briefly in Louisiana. It was here that Amans created a neoclassical portrait, depicting Catherine posed sitting in an elegant fashion. Pictured in a white Victorian style dress, this portrait of Catherine represents not only who she was at the time, but who she wished to be as well. This painting’s details provide evidence for the culture of class in Tallahassee, and the representation of new European trends by an American woman. By researching the portrait of Catherine, this project hopes to uncover the induction of Victorian trends in American fashion, and also to uncover the history of Catherine Murat’s life that can potentially be told through art.

Keywords: Tallahassee, Portraiture, Fashion

BIO

I am an international student from Delhi, India. I am a sophomore majoring in Digital Media Production. I am also an independent musician and filmmaker.

Sounds of a Wonder City: La Paz, Bolivia

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to investigate how the sonic environment of the Bolivian capital city of La Paz is reflected and manifested in music. In order to build a profile of the sound landscape of the city, hundreds of sounds recorded throughout the city were analyzed for similarities and consistencies and rhythmic patterns. Moreover, Professional Bolivian musicians were interviewed regarding their subjective meanings of different sounds in their culture, as well as their approach to utilizing city sounds to narrate different philosophies through their music. This research will potentially depict the emotional value of sounds in the culture when used in a piece of music and how the soundscapes of La Paz affect the sonics of Bolivian musicians.

Keywords: music, sounds, environment, emotions

BIO

My name is Ashley Jancura. I am a Freshman at FSU majoring in Biological Sciences with a minor in Chemistry on a Pre-Medical track. I am very interested in the Cardiovascular system and plan to continue my research in the medical field.

Creatine Monohydrate Supplementation Improves Microvascular Blood Flow But Not Glucose Homeostasis in Response to a Meal

Abstract

Consumption of high-carbohydrate (HC) or high-fat (HF) meals are known to increase reactive oxygen species (ROS), which underlie the development of cardiovascular disease. The consumption of HF meals are known to induce hyperglycemia which can increase ROS. NADPH oxidase (NOX) is a primary source of ROS in the vasculature, but the effects of NOX-generated ROS on in vivo microvascular blood flow following a HC or HF meal are unclear. The primary aim of this study is to determine whether five days of CM supplementation can reduce in vivo ROS concentrations, improve microvascular blood flow, and reduce hyperglycemia in response to a HC meal.
Young, healthy males and females were studied. Microdialysis was utilized to measure local skeletal muscle (vastus lateralis) ROS concentrations and microvascular blood flow at rest and for four hours after consumption of either a HC (150 grams of glucose) or HF (66 grams of fat) meal. A continuous glucose monitor was inserted into the subcutaneous adipose tissue to collect readings of interstitial glucose levels throughout the study. One microdialysis probe was perfused with a control saline solution containing 5 mM ethanol (CON). Microvascular blood flow was assessed by ethanol outflow-to-inflow ratio (o:i), which is inversely related to blood flow. Microdialysis procedures were repeated after five days of CM supplementation (20 g/day). Following five days of CM supplementation, ROS concentrations and microvascular blood flow were significantly increased at 180 mins post HC/HF consumption. No change in interstitial glucose levels were observed with CM supplementation.

Keywords: Cardiovascular, Blood Flow, Glucose, Creatine, Microvascular

BIO

Darcy Sullivan is a second-year student majoring in Biochemistry. Darcy has a love for research in the STEM field, with a focus on Psychology and Chemistry topics. Darcy is from Pensacola, FL, and plans to pursue a medical career after her undergraduate studies.

The Comorbidity of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Abuse Disorder and Alcohol Abuse Disorder: The Role of Minority Stress

Abstract

Substance abuse disorder (SUD), alcohol abuse disorder (AUD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which are highly comorbid conditions, cause substantial impairment and warrant research attention. A potential source of the comorbidity may be experiences of trauma, which include “minority stress” – considerable distress caused by experiences of discrimination based on historically minoritized identities. To investigate the relevance of minority stress as a shared correlate of SUD and PTSD, a path model was estimated in a sample of young adults who reported at least one minoritized identity (N = 216).

Cross-sectional data from individuals with marginalized identities were collected. Path models were estimated to examine hypothesized correlations between minority stress, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, and PTSD.

The estimated path model fit well. Results support the hypothesized meaningful correlation of minority stress with drug abuse, alcohol abuse, and PTSD. Results suggest that minority stress, a consequence of experience of discrimination, may confer risk for comorbid substance abuse, alcohol abuse, and PTSD. Given such correlations, treatment that targets minority stress may be beneficial in treating minoritized individuals who present with comorbid alcohol abuse, substance abuse, and PTSD symptoms. Limitations include the cross-sectional nature of the study that precludes causal inferences.

Keywords: Psychology, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Minority Stress

BIO

My name is Kelsey Coss, I'm from Tampa, Florida, and I am a sophomore in undergrad here at Florida State University. I'm majoring in psychology and have enjoyed spending my time exploring the fields of research within psych. This year I have focused my interests towards behavioral neuroscience research and social psychology, and I'm hoping to continue to pursue these in the future.

Spatial Navigation in Rodent Models of Alzheimer’s Disease During Reference Frame Transformation

Abstract

The overall objective of our research is to use animal models to understand how we get oriented in space so we can navigate our environment, and how some disorders such as Alzheimer´s disease interfere with this ability. This ability requires interfacing between our interactions with the world (which are fixed to our bodies; i.e., egocentric) and the way our brain maps out space which is map-like or world centered in nature (i.e., allocentric). To understand the brain dynamics that underlie this ability, we obtained electrophysiological recordings using two approaches, tetrodes and silicon probes. We set out to monitor neural activity in rats as they complete a series of spatial orientation tasks, designed to disentangle the brain dynamics underlying navigation using body-centered (egocentric) strategies, world centered (allocentric) strategies, or a strategy that requires transformation between allocentric and egocentric. This research will lay the groundwork for understanding if these same brain systems and abilities are dysfunctional in Alzheimer’s disease.

Keywords: Spatial Navigation; Alzheimer's Disease; Rats

BIO

My name is Maxim Woodhouse and I am from Pensacola, Florida. I am majoring in Biology and Finance and am on the the pre-med track. I look forward to being able to present at the undergraduate research symposium!

Low Dimensional Organic Metal Halide Hybrids with White Emissions for LED Applications

Abstract

Low dimensional organic metal halide hybrids (OMHHs) are the most promising candidates for display and lighting with excellent color tunability. Here, we report an approach to create a white emitting single layer by combining red emitting 0 dimensional (0D) (TPPcarzSbBr₄) OMHHs and greenish-blue emitting [(CH₃)₂NH₂]₂₂[Pb₂Br₁₁] [Pb₆Br₂₇] 0D OMHHs clusters.

Keywords: Chemistry, OMHH, WLED

BIO

Malena is a first-generation Cuban-American student from Miami, Florida interested in becoming a Speech Pathologist specializing in children with developmental disabilities in underserved communities. Her current research is done in hopes to improve the experience of Hispanic/Latinx students in high school in order to promote their likelihood of applying to college and pursuing higher education.

Educational Missteps Schools Commit Regarding Hispanic/Latinx Students

Abstract

Education attainment is important for several reasons; for example, it is associated with current and future well-being (Ryan et al., 2017) and subsequent economic opportunities (Darling et al., 2018). However, research has consistently shown that Hispanic students underperform academically, particularly compared to white students (Schneider et al., 2006). More research is needed to understand why Hispanic students struggle academically, particularly in high school, to ensure that Hispanic adolescents improve their developmental potential. This qualitative study will help address this concern by asking Hispanic college students about their experiences in high school to identify what resources helped them academically and what resources they wish they had that could have helped them perform academically. Twenty-one Hispanic college students completed semi-structured individual interviews over Zoom; some example questions were, what resources would you wish you had in high school to assist your educational experience? Multiple participants emphasized the utility of parental involvement and school administrators and faculty with whom they felt a sense of identification. Participants also reported that a lack of financial resources limited their ability to pursue additional college preparation, and a lack of confidence in guidance counselors made students uncomfortable requesting additional assistance. One suggestion for schools would be fostering an open dialogue between faculty and students about what students need to be successful beyond academia. Further suggestions will be provided to school districts regarding what improvements could be made to support Hispanic/Latinx students.

Keywords: Hispanic, Representation, Education

BIO

Elizabeth Schutte is a junior at Florida State and is originally from Cincinnati, Ohio. She is pursuing a dual degree in Public Relations and Spanish with minors in Retail Operations and Hospitality Management, and her goal is to one day own a public relations firm with international clientele, particularly focusing on Spanish-speaking countries. Elizabeth currently owns and operates a public relations and digital marketing business, and her intent is to turn this into a full-time endeavor upon graduating from FSU. Elizabeth became involved with research during her freshman year at Florida State through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, when she began serving as the public relations officer for the Penguineering research team. She has continued serving in this role throughout the past three years, and her work with the research team has led her to unique experiences such as hosting a large-scale outreach event in Tallahassee, Florida, presenting research through a temporary exhibit at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C. and conducting interviews for press purposes at the International Conference on Robotics and Automation in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her previous research funding includes FSU's IDEA Grant and the ICRA Science Communication Award.

Penguineering Communications: Sharing Robotics and Semiaquatics with the World

Abstract

During the 2020-2021 academic year, I completed research through FSU's Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. As a public relations student working with a mechanical engineering research team, I investigated the following hypothesis: A hands-on approach to children’s conservation education will result in the highest level of engagement from audiences at outreach events. Upon finding support for the hypothesis that children learn best from hands-on teaching methods, I received funding through FSU's IDEA Grant to host a large-scale educational event for children and families, in conjunction with the Penguineering Team, a research team that studies penguin gaits to improve walking robotic technology. The successful event, "Penguin Palooza," allowed me to gather primary data in support of my hypothesis regarding hands-on learning. In addition to currently managing communications and applying for funding on behalf of the Penguineering Team, I am furthering my own research of effective educational tactics. In the spring of 2022, I represented Florida State along with the Penguineering Team at the ACCelerate Festival in Washington D.C., where we presented research at the Smithsonian Museum. Here, there were abundant opportunities to teach children through hands-on methods, further confirming my hypothesis. Currently, I am in the process of working with the Penguineering Team, now based out of New York University, to create an even larger-scale version of Penguin Palooza to be held in New York City. This event will include the most successful elements of the initial iteration of Penguin Palooza while also testing new hands-on teaching methods.

Keywords: outreach, robotics, communication, teaching, learning

BIO

Good day! My research interest revolves around the process of learning a new language. Whether that happens through a conscious and intentional process or an unconscious and unintentional one. How non-native English speakers express their understanding of the English language. Coming from Miami, Fl a busy and growing city, my perspective on go big or go home is always expanding. I hope to have a career that partakes in being the change, or a part of the change I would like to see in our world.

Learning A Second Language Subconsciously

Abstract

Second language learning is taught in the majority of schools across the globe in order to communicate and collaborate with one another. This study looks into one specific type: unconscious learning. In the data collection stage, participants in China, who have learned English in many different ways, were surveyed. The participants all looked at the same graphics put in front of them and then told the story they saw in their own words, in English. These results were then taken and rated on 2 factors: comprehensibility and accentedness. The results are then going to be analyzed and compared. The goal is to discover the influence that unconscious second language acquisition has on the language learning process and how these results differ from those in a traditional learning environment.

Keywords: language, conscious, unconscious

BIO

My name is Matilda Varine and I am a 2nd year student here at Florida State University studying political science and economics. I grew up in Annapolis, Maryland where I first gained an interest in politics. Some of my other involvements here at Florida State include being an Institute of Politics fellow as well as membership in the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. A fun fact about me is that I am a cast member in the FSU Flying High Circus where I perform jump rope. My main research interests include the media and its influence in politics, party polarization, and elections. This research project focuses on different factors such as demographics to determine whether or not they have an influence on how individual state legislators vote on anti-protest legislation. I hope to continue enhancing my experience in research through the rest of my undergraduate career.

How Protests Affect Policy Change: Determinants of Anti-Protest Legislation

Abstract

In the last few years, states across the United States have seen an uptick in legislation restricting the right to assemble, including protests blocking traffic, protests near critical infrastructure, easing penalties for actions against protesters, and other ways that restrict protests. For this project, our research team has analyzed the different factors that contribute to these laws, including the motives and reasonings for why these bills are sponsored and voted on. We will have a better understanding on how an individual legislator’s background, constituency, and party affects their way of voting. We first collected and organized roll call votes on Microsoft Excel regarding all anti-protest bills passed in all state legislatures since 2017; the team then collected information on each state legislator, including political affiliation, demographic background, and other components that allow us to find patterns in voting. Although results are preliminary, factors indicate heavy partisan influence. Exploring these aspects is crucial for understanding how partisan politics can influence constitutionally divisive issues.

Keywords: politics, protest, legislative

BIO

My name is Elaina Kokinakos, and I am a senior at Florida State University studying criminology and psychology. I am originally from Boca Raton, Florida. After graduating, I plan on attending graduate school at Teachers College Columbia University or NYU Steinhardt to receive a degree in Mental Health Counseling. My research interests vary, but I am mainly interested in studying ways to combat recidivism.

Associations Between Daily Physical Activity and Cognitive Functioning: Evidence From Stimulus and Response Locked Event Related Potentials

Abstract

There is extensive research linking physical activity to better cognitive outcomes such as improved executive functioning and memory related to increases in exercise. Alternatively, there is less consistent evidence demonstrating that higher levels of sedentary behaviors are associated to worse cognitive functioning. Furthermore, our understanding of the exact neural mechanisms underlying these modulations in cognitive functioning related to exercise or sedentary activity remains quite elusive. Therefore, the current study examined the association between average daily exercise time and daily sedentary time with neural measures of attention allocation. More specifically, a total of 145 undergraduate students (age = 19.01, SD = 1.25, 63% female) completed self-report measures of time spent completing exercise and sedentary activities in the past week. These participants then completed a computerized speeded response task (i.e., flanker task) while EEG recorded to elicit the stimulus-locked P300 component and the response-locked error positivity (Pe) component. At the zero-order, individuals exhibiting higher P300, and higher Pe amplitude reported exercising more daily. There were no significant associations between these neural components and amount of sedentary behavior. Furthermore, when placed into a model as simultaneous predictors of daily exercise, neither P300 nor Pe amplitude emerged as a unique predictor suggesting that both of these neural components are explaining overlapping variance in regard to time spent exercising. In sum, these results suggest that daily exercise is more distinctly associated with cognitive processes related to attention.

Keywords: Exercise and Cognitive Functioning

BIO

My name is Vida Fauble, and I am an undergraduate student at Florida State University studying Anthropology and Chinese. I am originally from West Africa but have lived in Tallahassee for 14 years. I enjoy learning about other cultures and spending time with friends and family. While at Florida State University, I hope to conduct more research both within and outside my areas of study.

Representation of Women in Female-Directed Bollywood Films

Abstract

Movies are a form of cultural production that not only represent the environments they come from, but also influence cultural conceptions and understandings themselves. Therefore, the way in which female characters are represented reflects on both Indian society at large as well as the changing dynamics of the film industry. Compared to their male peers, female directors are underrepresented in Bollywood, and as a result, there may be differences in how female directors portray gender on screen. This study explores whether women directors influence how female characters are portrayed in the film by analyzing the representation, presentation, and presence of female characters in Bollywood films directed by women. However, investigating a subject of such scope needs to be broken down in order to draw more concrete quantitative data. Using a method known as “coding”, this project went through each speaking female character in selected Bollywood films, noting things such as their demographic makeup, clothing, gendered behavior, and the way they interact with other women. The coding process was done multiple times per character to ensure the reliability of the data. Although the study is still ongoing, the investigation of films completed so far has resulted in notable preliminary results. ​

Keywords: Bollywood, Films, Female representation, Female-directed

BIO

My name is Summer Chapman; I am a second year at FSU one a pre-medical track. I am passionate about mental health, reducing violence, and community service. I enjoy learning about human behavior and interaction as well as chemistry. I spend my free time with my friends going to new places and volunteering at a local animal shelter.

Sleep characteristics of youth who experience internalizing disorders and current suicidal ideation

Abstract

This study uses secondary data analysis for the purpose of this study exploring sleep characteristics of youth at-risk for suicidal ideation. We referenced previous literature while analyzing data from Dr. Buitron’s previous study. We found among this at-risk sample, they experienced sleep dysregulation and a common feeling of experiencing “too little” sleep. We concluded that targeting sleep variability in treatment may provide additional support to promote emotional regulation.

Keywords: Suicidal ideation, sleep , mental health

BIO

I grew up in Tallahassee, Florida and always knew Florida State would be the school for me. I am currently a Nursing major with hopes of continuing my education post undergrad to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. Through my current research, I get to examine the relationship of mothers and babies' postpartum which has sparked my interest in working closely with families and all their healthcare needs. I enjoy caring for others and look forward to continuing this research to learn more about how to better support mothers postpartum.

Examining the Relationship of Postpartum Employment Status With Breastfeeding and Depression

Abstract

The relationship between a mother and her baby postpartum can be affected by many factors, such as how soon after the mother returns to work. There may be many reasons a mother returns to work, for example, for financial reasons, for adult human interaction, or a variety of other reasons. To understand how returning to work affects these mothers, each mother in this study is asked to complete a survey that asks a variety of questions including when or if a mother returns to work within 8 weeks of having her baby and how this affected the mother’s depression levels and if she continued breastfeeding, if it was implemented from the start. The data collected was used to calculate a p-value to determine significance. Since our sample size is still small, consisting of only 47 mothers, there were no relationships that achieved a significant p-value, besides the relationship between mothers not returning to work and the continuation of breastfeeding, which obtained a p-value of 0.02. This study should be continued to achieve a larger sample size and show higher significance between the effects of returning to work on breastfeeding and depression levels.

Keywords: Mother Baby Relationship Postpartum

BIO

Hi, I'm Jaiden. I'm a finance student by day, and a YouTuber by night. I'm working to become a source of guidance for other students--whether it be financially, mentally, or physically.

I've faced many challenges common among people my age, and I want to share how I overcame some and how I'm currently working through others.

I'm an avid reader, especially in the self-help and personal finance/business categories, and I love finding ways to save money. If you have any recommendations for either, I'd love to chat.

Social Media and Emotion: Young Adults and their relationship with different online platforms

Abstract

Social media has become a prominent part of the 21st century. It provides a way for people to connect and communicate like never before. However, people are now associating social media in both a negative and positive light. This study aims to explore the possible correlations between social media and negative and positive emotions in undergraduate and graduate-age students. The objective of this research was to, one, identify the emotions that individuals felt about their social media use, and, two, analyze why they felt this way. Participants in this study were interviewed over an hour and initially asked a series of background questions regarding their life at Florida State University and their experience with Social Media. Then, participants were given several scenarios, such as time spent on social media, and asked if they associated positive or negative emotions with it, and if so to what intensity. Data was analyzed through thematic analysis.

Keywords: social media, emotion, tiktok

BIO

My name is Allison Bowerfind and I am a sophomore from Spring Hill, FL. I am a dual-degree, pre-med student with majors in behavioral neuroscience and sociology and a minor in chemistry. After obtaining my bachelor's degree, I would like to attend medical school to become a psychiatrist or cardiologist. At Florida State, I am currently a mentor for students who have their high school AA degrees and a member of the sorority, Pi Beta Phi. In my free time, I love to spend time outside, doing things like walking my dog, running, or spending time with family and friends.

The Effect of Nasal versus Oral Breathing on Blood Pressure at Rest and During Exercise

Abstract

Breathing patterns affect cardiovascular variables, like blood pressure, at rest and during exercise. Because the effects of nasal breathing have not been studied on blood pressure, we tested the hypothesis that nose-only versus mouth-only breathing would lower blood pressure at rest and during exercise. Blood pressure was measured in the laboratory during rest and submaximal exercise in 10 healthy participants (females=5, males=5; age=18±1 years; body mass index=23±3 kg/m2). The order of breathing (nasal vs. oral) was randomized, with the respiratory rate fixed between conditions. The resting period consisted of two 5-minute epochs. The submaximal exercise (cycling @ 75 watts) consisted of two 7-minute epochs. We compared variables using two-tailed, paired t-tests for rest and exercise. By design, breathing rate did not differ between nose-only (15.9±3.5 breaths/minute) and mouth-only breathing (15.9±3.5 breaths/minute, p=0.0.1) at rest nor between nose-only (24.7±4.1 breaths/minute) and mouth-only breathing (24.7±4.1 breaths/minute, p=0.3) during exercise. Our data suggest that diastolic blood pressure for nose-only breathing (69±5 mmHg) was also lower than for mouth-only breathing (72±3; p=0.03) at rest. However, systolic blood pressure for nose-only breathing (118±13 mmHg) was not different from mouth-only breathing (119±9 mmHg; p=0.58) at rest. Systolic blood pressure for nose-only breathing (147±12 mmHg) was not different from mouth-only breathing (146±14 mmHg; p=0.72) during exercise. Similarly, diastolic blood pressure for nose-only breathing (80±12 mmHg) was not different from mouth-only breathing (79±13 mmHg; p=0.32) during exercise. These preliminary data suggest that nose-only breathing may lower diastolic, but not systolic, blood pressure at rest and not during exercise.

Keywords: Exercise, Blood Pressure, Health