Research Symposium

BIO

I am a rising junior from Lakeland, Florida. Post undergrad I would like to go to medical school with the hopes to become a dermatologist. I would like to use my job as a dermatologist to serve the underserved community who usually are not able to access dermatology resources.

The Omnipresence of Black Joy

Abstract

Often in the media and the news, Black people are painted in a negative light. This research project aims to redefine these negative stereotypes and offer positive narratives that are associated with Black people and Black Joy. To redefine the understanding of the Black experience, the researchers of this project first used the cumulative knowledge from academic based literature reviews to create a website that disseminates research and stories of Black Joy. While using the Kujima Theory of Collective Self-Motivation, this website plans to include surveys completed by Black students at Florida State University to better understand what Black Joy means to them. Finally, by synthesizing information from academic literature, people's lived experiences, music, and the previously mentioned surveys, this project will be used to inform the development of a new curriculum used in public universities. This curriculum will be focused on Black Joy as a path to physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.

Keywords: Black Joy students

BIO

I am a college freshman studying History and Latin. I am from Jupiter Florida and previously lived in Germany. My research interests surround ancient history and religion, and the impact religion has had on society and vice versa. I hope to become a professor eventually and get the chance to teach a class of my own.

The Valley of Dry Bones in Medieval Art

Abstract

The Roda Bible’s Old Testament was written and illustrated in the eleventh century at the monastery of Santa Maria de Ripoll in Catalonia, Spain. This was one of multiple bibles created for the purpose of promoting education and discourse among the monks. There are illustrations to depict important stories from various books. Through iconographic comparison of these illustrations to other medieval works of art it can be deciphered what the Ripoll monks found to be important for their needs. The specific story for the Valley of Bones from the story of Ezekiel deals with the anxiety of death in most depictions but retains a scholarly perspective in the Roda Bibles. By comparing the representation of the imagery of the Valley of Bones across multiple depictions from medieval art it can be seen that the Ripoll monks focused on communication with God and teaching others.

Keywords: Medieval Art, History, The Bible

BIO

I am a second-year Benacquisto Scholar majoring in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences with a minor in Spanish. I am currently an involved in the Medical Response Unit, USSTRIDE, and the Power of We.

Improving the binding affinity of the integrase binding domain in host proteins for HIV-1 virion incorporation and targeted gene therapy​

Abstract

HIV-1 relies on several host factors for successful cell infection, including the lens epithelium derived growth factor (LEDGF) which interacts with the viral enzyme integrase (IN) to facilitate vDNA integration into host chromatin. At its N-terminal region, LEDGF contains a PWWP-domain responsible for interaction with cellular chromatin, and at its C-terminal region, an integrase binding domain (IBD) that interacts with IN. The N-terminus structures tether IN in the HIV-1 replication complex to chromatin and dictate where vDNA integration occurs in the cellular genome. Published work shows creating alternative chromatin-binding domains in LEDGF that recognize histone codes in fusion proteins with IBD effectively redirects integration at the epigenetic level; this supports the potential for developing IBD fusion proteins that direct vDNA integration into specific genomic loci for gene therapy applications. However, IBD fusion protein constructs have low binding affinities with IN, leading to inadequate packaging into virions. Structural studies reveal that upon binding, IBD and IN form a complex maintained by the proteins’ hydrophobic residues burrowing together. Increasing the hydrophobicity of IBD residues enhances the IN-IBD complex formation. In this project, amino acid modifications are introduced into IBD proteins to improve binding affinity to IN. The efficiency of IBD’s association with IN, packing into virions, and redirecting HIV-1 integration will be evaluated by cellular, biochemical, and genomic approaches. The improved binding affinity of IBD to IN and its utility in redirecting HIV-1 integration will validate practical use in gene therapy. This project is in the process of collecting and analyzing data.

Keywords: HIV, IBD, Integrase

BIO

My name is Matthew Aguilera, and I am a freshman majoring in political science. As someone who has long been fascinated by the American political system and the mechanism on which it runs, my choice of degree was only natural. I look forward to gaining real-world experience in the political realm, whether that be by working in political offices or on campaigns. As is the case with what is probably the vast majority of political science majors, I too plan on attending law school following the completion of my undergraduate education.

Outside of academics, my hobbies generally consist of those activities which are to be done outdoors. I have a special interest in sailing, as I used to race for a club and would work there in the summers; and although I have not had much time to get out recently, I would really like to do so more often. Outside of that, I enjoy hiking, running, and even mountain biking. I do also enjoy reading, with my books generally consisting of non-fiction histories or political biographies.

Understanding the Influence of Governance on Higher Education Performance in Florida

Abstract

This study researches the influence of government in second education institutions in the state of Florida. By using data from the Postsecondary Education Data System, which includes information from the twelve public universities in Florida, this study examines the relationship between institutional performance and governance. Since Florida does not have a specific governance system, but rather a hybrid one, each public university has a unique governance structure which allows us to study their governance process. Additionally, by using Florida as a case study, it allows us to examine how the change in governmental structure in different universities affects the institutions' performance. This paper examines governmental processes and structure in order to see which is more effective in terms of performance. It also discusses which processes are more effective including top down, horizontal, or bottom-up governmental processes. By studying these structures of the government process, we are able to narrow down the efficiency of each structure. This paper is meant to provide theoretical contributions to the field of governmental studies by expanding literature to include the structure and processes of government. It also is meant to discuss government influence in terms of organization and its influence on institutions in the state of Florida.​

Keywords: political science; education; government; public policy; public administration

BIO

I was raised in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. I grew up with one parent being an engineer and the other being an artist. I like to think this is what gave me an interest in science that is more abstract or theoretical. I want to learn and discover many new things that we still question today, like dark matter. To do this, I hope to become a college professor and research stellar evolution or cosmology. I plan to go to graduate school and do more research before I graduate to make this dream a reality.

White Dwarf Flame Front Data Analysis

Abstract

A Type Ia supernova is the result of a white dwarf star. It is an explosion process where in one scenario nuclear reactions are restarted in the core of a massive white dwarf. Since these events happen without prior warning and it is impossible to see inside a star, their computer modeling offers the most informative means of learning about their evolution.
Our goal in this project is to improve one component of physics participating in the explosion process. Specifically, we are concerned with the properties of flames, which are burning fronts that power the explosion. We study the properties of these flames using a stellar evolution code, MESA. In the simulations, we record the speed and width of the flame front depending on the fuel density and its composition. The improved information about the flame structure and evolution will make it possible to obtain more accurate explosion models. We compare our results to the results of previous studies of the flame evolution problem and discuss possible future research directions in this area.

Keywords: Data, Astrophysics, Star, Flame, Astronomy

BIO

I grew up along the coast in New York and moved to Jacksonville, Florida five years ago. I have been interested in coastal and marine biology my whole life, and I hope to continue to study reefs after this project, as oyster reefs are one of my top research interests. I chose this project because phase shifts within coral reefs are essential to study, as they are the lungs of the ocean, and losing them would greatly decrease the biodiversity of the world. I hope to continue to study and protect reefs when I graduate.

Effect of habitat configuration on the persistence of macroalgae in the Moorea coral reef system

Abstract

Coral reefs have been struggling for many years due to many factors, but a pertinent reason is phase shifts, which are when a coral bommie or habitable coral structure, shift from a healthy state to a macroalgae-dominated state. These phase shifts have been relatively well studied by ecologists, however, macroalgal species with low dispersal rates are not well studied. As more coral reef structures are affected by these phase shifts, it is becoming increasingly crucial to study the patterns of macroalgae growth. We focused on 10 sites around the island of Moorea, French Polynesia, each spanning 15x15 meters. We aimed to study the spread of Turbinaria Ornata across a variety of bommie sizes and distances. First, we created orthomosaics of each site and IDed the patches of Turbinaria, then we ran those annotations through GIS software to map the location and percent cover of each patch across the coral bommies. Next, we used R to analyze the distances between the bommies and their correlation with macroalgae growth between 2019 and 2021. We hypothesized that larger bommies and those in closer proximity to other bommies would experience less change in Turbinaria cover over time, while smaller bommies would have higher rates of change. This study can inform how habitat configuration can affect the spread and persistence of macroalgae in coral reef systems which then can provide a better understanding of how ecologists can better protect and prevent these phase shifts from occurring.

Keywords: Biology, Ecology, Coral Reefs, Algae

BIO

Kailen is a first year student studying Chemical Engineering, with minors in Economics and Business. Though she has not quite narrowed down what she wants to do, she hopes to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry that will help to develop new treatments or to make medications more accessible for patients. She currently works as an immunizing pharmacy technician and volunteers with organizations that target disparities within youth populations. In her free time, she enjoys going to concerts, learning about different cultures, cooking new recipes, and spending time with her friends.

The Use of Boron Nitride Nanotubes in Sprayable Preceramic Polymer Coatings

Abstract

Existing research has shown that preceramic polymers can be cured with UV light to form polymer-derived ceramic materials. Upon light processing, the non- nanotube boron nitride is removed from the system, leaving only an ultra-lightweight complex which can add structure to materials without adding significant weight. Layer-by-layer spraying techniques have been found to have high efficacy in applying flat layers of silver nanowires to surfaces while maximizing the polarization efficacy. The purpose of this project is to develop a formula for a preceramic polymer solution with boron nitride nanotubes that can be used in airbrushing and other thin-layer application mechanisms. This solution will then be pyrolyzed into a polymer-derived ceramic with BNNTs dispersed throughout it to add structure and aid in the management of heat flow.

Keywords: ceramics, coating, chemical engineering, materials, polymer

BIO

Hi! My name is Sophia Vizoso and I am from Miami, Florida. I was raised by a very Cuban family and grew up hearing all about "the American Dream." Now that I am in college, I know that you can achieve anything you put yourself up to. I am currently a biochemistry major on the Pre-med track, and I hope to one day become a doctor. I have always been fascinated by the little things that move and grow but we can only see through the lens of a microscope. While at FSU, I've had the opportunity of working alongside Dr. Crofts, who has not only facilitated my learning, but has also increased my passion for the subject. Researching about antibiotic resistance and working with e. Coli has been one of the most unique and enriching opportunities in my life! So a special thanks to Dr. Crofts, Ezabelle Franck, and Elizabeth Bernate for allowing me to research alongside you all.

Tiamulin vs. E. coli: who would win?

Abstract

Over the past few decades, the increase in antibiotic resistance has been nothing short from alarming. This study specifically investigates Tiamulin, an antibiotic from the mulin family. Research shows that after a functional metagenomic selection and the sequencing of resistant colonies, some mystery genes were found to give resistance. Although E. coli doesn’t typically show much interest in Tiamulin, it has been found that with an efflux inhibitor, they stop its growth. The goal in this study is to PCR amplify the mystery genes, clone them into a plasmid and put them in E. coli, and lastly measure E. coli tiamulin resistance.

Keywords: Antibiotic, microbiology, genes, science, bacteria

BIO

My name is Anissa Adams, I am a rising junior majoring in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience with a chemistry minor. I was accepted into Florida State through the CARE program which is a scholarship program that provides long-term support for first-generation students. In my two years at FSU, I have been involved in Healthy Noles, Alpha Chi Sigma, Phi Delta Epsilon, the Medical Response Unit, and research at The Institute of Sports Sciences and Medicine. I hope to continue developing through research in this lab over the next two years. After my undergraduate studies, I hope to obtain my M.D. specializing in emergency medicine.

Pre-loaded Betaine Supplementation on Thermoregulation and Biomarkers From Cycling Performance In Heat 

Abstract

When exposed to high temperatures the natural cooling mechanisms of the body such as sweating, may not be sufficient at regulating body temperature, which can lead to heat-stress. Betaine, an endogenous substance, has demonstrated the ability to mitigate the affects of thermal stress. While previous studies have demonstrated betaine’s ability to increase heat tolerance most have been conducted in cell cultures and animal models. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the impact of betaine on thermoregulation in humans through a 3-week betaine supplementation in endurance trained males. We hypothesize that preloaded betaine supplementation will enhance heat tolerance through various body mechanics. If this hypothesis hold true betaine supplementation may be consumed by individuals who are exposed to the risk of heat stress.

Keywords: betaine, thermoregulation, heat shock protein, lipopolysaccharides

BIO

Melanie is a first-year student from Cincinnati, Ohio majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience with minors in Spanish and Chemistry. Melanie is currently on a pre-medical track with goals to pursue Medical School entering general pediatrics. Her ultimate goal is to create change in the world by excelling academically, serving people in her community, and using her voice and power to promote health equity. Melanie's professional goal is to become a pediatrician who addresses health disparities in children and underserved communities.
Melanie is an ambitious student with intentional involvement in Higher Education, Research, Global Citizenship, Fine Arts, and African-American advocacy. She can be found on campus as the Programming Director for Homecoming Council 2023, a Research Assistant in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, a member of the Presidential Scholars Service Board, a member of the Seminole Tap Troupe, a member of Phi Delta Epsilon Medical Fraternity, a member of SISTUHS Inc, and a participant in the Global Citizenship Certificate Program.

NADPH Oxidase-derived ROS Effects on Lipolysis and Cardiometabolic Diseases

Abstract

Background: Previous research has found a link between a high concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and endothelial dysfunction. In addition, evidence suggests that high ROS production contributes to dysregulated lipolysis, which is a common feature of obesity that is linked to impaired vascular function and insulin resistance. The purpose of this study is to examine a major source of ROS production, NADPH Oxidase (NOX), as a regulating factor of lipolysis and how the effects of Nox on lipolysis impact vascular function and glucose metabolism.

Methods: Young, healthy males and females completed a health screening to evaluate vitals (blood pressure and blood sugar) and body mass index. Cardiovascular fitness (a VO2max test) was completed by examining the maximum levels of oxygen utilized during exercise, as cardiovascular fitness levels are correlated with cardiometabolic health. A non-invasive ultrasound test was utilized to assess endothelial function of the brachial artery. A body composition (DXA) scan was performed to obtain data on lean mass and fat mass. Microdialysis was utilized to monitor local fat metabolism and ROS production in the subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue before and during a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp procedure. During microdialysis, glycerol is measured as a marker of lipolysis and the contribution of NOX on total ROS production is measured via perfusion of a local NOX inhibitor (apocynin) into microdialysis probes.

We are collecting and analyzing data in our laboratory to determine the relationships between Nox and lipolysis, including how Nox-mediated lipolysis influences endothelial function and glucose metabolism

Keywords: Health, Exercise, Obesity, Cardio, Science

BIO

I am from originally from Clermont, FL. My research interests involve different therapy techniques, mental health, mental disorders, learning disabilities, and peoples’ lives after traumatic events. These research topics closely align with my career aspirations because I would like to attend Psychology graduate school and become a Licensed Clinical Psychologist.

Healing Through Self After Harm by Others: The Associations Between Self-Compassion, Trauma-Related Shame, and Physical Health

Abstract

In this study, researchers observed the impact of trauma-related symptoms on physical health and identified if increased levels of self-compassion are associated with increased physical health after experiencing interpersonal violence. Current studies suggest that self-compassion reduces interpersonal violence's adverse physical health effects, specifically trauma-related shame. This research team predicted that less trauma-related shame (reduced trauma-related symptoms) would negatively correlate with better physical health, and more self-compassion would positively correlate with better physical health. They also predicted that incorporating self-compassion into this model while controlling for trauma-related shame would yield significant results. An online survey via Qualtrics was given to 179 participants to test this. The survey assessed their levels of self-compassion, trauma-related shame, physical health, and experience of interpersonal violence. After data collection, researchers ran a hierarchical linear regression to determine if self-compassion held any predictive power for physical health while controlling for trauma-related shame. Researchers assessed trauma-related shame as a predictor for physical health first, and then added self-compassion in a second block. Correlations were evaluated to avoid multicollinearity. The results indicated that trauma-related shame predicted physical health, including when controlling for self-compassion, and self-compassion predicted physical health when controlling for trauma-related shame.

Keywords: Interpersonal Trauma, Self-Compassion, Trauma-Related Shame, Physical Health

BIO

I am currently a second year undergraduate student double majoring in biology and public health in hopes to go to Physician's Assistant school and work in neonatology. I have a passion for children's research as well as things that center around helping people find relief from pre-existing conditions. In the future I yearn to work hands on in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and help premature babies recover from their ailments.

Relationship Between Childhood Experiences, Threat Responding, and Posttraumatic Stress

Abstract

The study detailed in this poster investigates the effect traumatic childhood events have
on the manifestation of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and tonic immobility (TI). Gaining
insight into the correlation between these two variables is valuable for informing the
development of better prevention and treatment plans. As defined by the National Institute of
Mental Health (NIMH), PTSD is a ‘disorder that develops in some people who have experienced
a shocking, scary, or dangerous event’ and affects the individual continuously. TI can be
explained as a ‘temporary state of motor inhibition’ (Abrams et al., 2009). The sample used in
this study was all females 18 years or older split into groups of 3 individuals with prior tonic
immobility experience, individuals with prior trauma but no tonic immobility, and healthy
controls. Various measures were utilized including the Tonic Immobility Questionnaire, Fight
Flight Freeze Questionnaire, etc. Results showed significant correlations between factors
including but not limited to harshness and flight as well as TI severity and childhood
unpredictability. Freeze and fight tendencies were not significantly linked to any predictors,
which can be further explored in future studies. These outcomes allow for the development of
more effective prevention and treatment strategies for those that suffer from PTSD.

Keywords: PTSD, trauma, childhood trauma, tonic immobility

BIO

Sabrina was raised in Cúcuta, Colombia. Her favorite subject is chemistry and she hopes to become a geriatric doctor in the future.

NADPH Oxidase-derived ROS Effects on Lipolysis and Cardiometabolic Diseases

Abstract

Background: Previous research has found a link between a high concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and endothelial dysfunction. In addition, evidence suggests that high ROS production contributes to dysregulated lipolysis, which is a common feature of obesity that is linked to impaired vascular function and insulin resistance. The purpose of this study is to examine a major source of ROS production, NADPH Oxidase (NOX), as a regulating factor of lipolysis and how the effects of Nox on lipolysis impact vascular function and glucose metabolism.

Methods: Young, healthy males and females completed a health screening to evaluate vitals (blood pressure and blood sugar) and body mass index. Cardiovascular fitness (a VO2max test) was completed by examining the maximum levels of oxygen utilized during exercise, as cardiovascular fitness levels are correlated with cardiometabolic health. A non-invasive ultrasound test was utilized to assess endothelial function of the brachial artery. A body composition (DXA) scan was performed to obtain data on lean mass and fat mass. Microdialysis was utilized to monitor local fat metabolism and ROS production in the subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue before and during a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp procedure. During microdialysis, glycerol is measured as a marker of lipolysis and the contribution of NOX on total ROS production is measured via perfusion of a local NOX inhibitor (apocynin) into microdialysis probes.

We are collecting and analyzing data in our laboratory to determine the relationships between Nox and lipolysis, including how Nox-mediated lipolysis influences endothelial function and glucose metabolism.

Keywords: NADPH oxidase, Lipolysis, Cardio-metabolic diseases.

BIO

Hello, my name is Patrick Tootle from Key Biscayne, Florida. I am an undergraduate Research Assistant for two FSU labs, one focused on Cognitive Neuroscience, and the other, Clinical Psychology. I seek to pursue a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience, with an interest in topics regarding conditioning and learning.

The Effect of Narratives On Recognition Memory

Abstract

Retrieval practice has been shown to strengthen future recall of practiced information, a concept known as the testing effect. Research has also shown that retrieving one memory can cause forgetting memories that share a similar context. Retrieval-induced forgetting is driven by inhibition, as we suppress competing memories. However, some studies have detailed that retrieving information can strengthen non-tested material, something known as retrieval- induced facilitation. Moreover, recent research has shown that narratives can integrate related information. We aim to understand when we encounter retrieval-induced forgetting, when we experience retrieval-induced facilitation, and how narratives influence these phenomena. We will present participants with two episodes of the television sitcom “Seinfeld.” Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two conditions: the coherent narrative condition, which consists of two unaltered episodes, or the incoherent narrative condition, which we created using multiple, unrelated scenes from various episodes. Participants were given retrieval cues for episode 1 during the practice phase, which were short descriptions of specific scenes. After a one-week delay, we will test participants on a recognition task using 36 three-second clips. Amongst these, 6 were practiced on day one (RP+), 6 are different scenes from episode 1 (RP-), 12 are from episode 2 (NRP), and 12 are from an unwatched episode (lure episode). We predict participants in the CN condition will experience retrieval-induced facilitation and the IN condition will experience retrieval-induced forgetting. Such research can help us better understand how retrieval interacts with memory, informing future work to improve or impair memory performance.

Keywords: Inhibition, Memory, Neuroscience, RIFO, RIFA

BIO

I am a Florida State University undergraduate student who is studying actuarial science. I am from Miami, Florida, and I have had experience working in research internships and mentorship’s with FSU, FIU, and independents.

Enhancing the Feedback Experience for Instructors and Students

Abstract

Our team is striving to create a program that streamlined the process of grading and receiving grades for written assignments. This increase in speed will allow teachers to spend less time on the rote repetition parts of grading, while directing their time toward finding what individual students and the majority of the class needs to work on to improve.

Keywords: Education, Teaching, Learning, Coding

BIO

I am from South Florida and am passionate about building a more inclusive society. I am on the board for the Pride Student Union, the Feminism and Ethnic Studies Honors Group, and the Skateboarding club. My dog Apollo and I enjoy spending time at local parks in Tallahassee. I love skateboarding and ice cream.

Student Understanding of Florida House Bill 1557

Abstract

This study investigates student understanding of House Bill 1557 (HB 1557). The researcher surveyed university-aged students. Questions were asked regarding how comfortable they felt in their understanding of different excerpts of Section 1 of the bill. Data collected will allow for more insight into the language and clarity of the bill.

Keywords: HB1557 Political Language

BIO

Currently, I am trying to receive my bachelor's in Economics with a minor in Business Analytics due to my interest in gaining valuable insights from data analysis and research. My career goals as of right now are unclear, but I would love to have a career that helps others with their finances or consults a business on more sustainable and economical business practices. In my free time, I enjoy using the lessons I have learned in class to apply them to my own finances to apply my analytics skills in the real world. Apart from academics, I enjoy watching soccer and Formula One, with my favorite team being Manchester City.

Assessing the Social Side of Corporate Sustainability

Abstract

This study aims to identify current social sustainability metrics and understand the role they play in fostering corporate social responsibility (CSR). We examined consumer and stockholder demand for sustainable products and the net benefits of engaging in environmental and social sustainability practices. Next, we compiled social and environmental sustainability metrics and constructed a consumer-facing sustainability framework, entitled the Corporate Sustainability Indicator (CSI). We centered our framework around social and environmental sustainability in the agri-food industry and evaluated two chocolate companies, Alter-Eco and Tony’s Chocolonely. Then we compared the results of the the CSI with the results of an existing framework, the Good Shopping Guide (GSG). Based off the data collected in the case study, we will assess the effectiveness of the CSI. Our results can be beneficial to corporations, small businesses, governmental agencies, shareholders, and consumers among other entities.

Keywords: Sustainability, Sustainability Metrics, Consumer Products

BIO

My name is Patrick Rote and I am from Orlando, FL. I am currently pursuing a degree in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience as a first year at Florida State University. My overall research interests are sleep, memory, and cognition. Upon completion of my undergraduate degree, I plan on furthering my education through graduate level studies and eventually pursuing a career in healthcare.

Understanding the Molecular Impacts of Sleep Deprivation in Mus Musculus

Abstract

Sleep deprivation is a widespread health issue that has adverse effects on neurobehavioral and cognitive functions. This is an increasing problem in all facets of society as there is a growing tendency to prioritize work and education over health. Sleeplessness accounts for an increased risk of developing metabolic, cardiac, and neurodegenerative diseases along with other health problems throughout the body. The hippocampus, frontal cortex, and cerebellum are regions of the brain that are particularly susceptible to alterations in gene regulation. What makes these brain regions of particular interest under the conditions of sleep deprivation are the hippocampus’ regulation of spatial memory, the cerebellum’s control of motor functions, and the alteration of neural networks in the frontal cortex. Sleep deprivation results in changes in gene expression as well as post-transcriptional impacts leading to changes in protein expression. Of particular interest is the long-term effects of sleep deprivation with an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias. Our research seeks to investigate the effects of sleep deprivation on the Tau protein, a neuropathological hallmark for Alzheimer’s Disease. In order to model the effects of sleep deprivation on our target regions of the brain, Mus musculus were sleep deprived with a particular emphasis on preventing micro-sleeps and their brains were then extracted for molecular analysis. The hippocampus, cerebellum, and frontal cortex tissue samples were fractionated and quantified using western blots to gain insight into the different levels of protein expression due to sleep deprivation.

Keywords: Sleep, Sleep Deprivation, Mice, Molecular, Neuroscience

BIO

I was born in Caracas, Venezuela, and just recently moved to America to start my college path as an international student. As an Economics major, my biggest area of interest is development economics, as I have the opportunity compare how the actions of different regions of the world result in diverse outcomes. From the smallest town in South America to New York City, it all catches my attention.
I also like to diverge my interests into other social sciences, such as criminology, which is where my current research project is taking place. The various ways in which human behavior can be studied fascinates me. Yet, I equally enjoy engaging in the study of trigonometric formulas and organic chemical compounds, which is why I am complementing my undergraduate degree with a minor in Mathematics. I like to have my perspective broadened by different people and academic fields, and I look forward everyday to find new ways to engage in my community.

Hate Crime and Typology: a Comprehensive Database for Federal Hate Crime Offenders

Abstract

The following research study is a comprehensive database of officially recorded federal hate crime offenders that addresses the personal information, background, situational characteristics, and crime details of each federal hate crime offender in the United States between 2009 and 2022. Seeing the increasing trend in hate crimes, the database has been created with the intent of detecting common and distinct patterns, triggers, and contexts of all serious bias-motivated crimes to increase prevention efforts and determine possible risk factors of these incidents in the United States. Additionally, the study seeks to develop a new typology that integrates the unique nature of hate crimes in America, directly connecting it to the numerous outcomes of such events and the various pathways into hate crime offending. The information for the study is being obtained by using open-source search engines so that all publicly available data can be collected and placed into the database, looking for variables such as mental illness, substance abuse, previous history of violence, and ties to hate groups of the offender. To achieve the goals of the research project, once all information on the offenders has been gathered, the research team aims to conduct the appropriate descriptive and multivariate analysis that reflects the study’s objectives. As a last step, the results of the project as well as the database are going to be publicly available and accessible to all.

Keywords: Hate crime, bias-motivated, typology, violence, victimization.

BIO

My name is Jennifer Godwin. I'm majoring in Communication Science and Disorders with a minor in Child Development. I am also pursuing certificates in Interdepartmental Developmental Disabilities and Multilingual Service Delivery. In the future, I want to be a pediatric speech pathologist. I hope to work in an urban setting to have a diverse clientele, working to help alleviate disparities that minority children may face within my profession.

An Analysis of Microstructure Features in Emergent Spanish-English Multilingual Learners

Abstract

This study’s purpose was to analyze the microstructure features of English Oral Narratives produced by Spanish-English Emergent Multilinguals in K-2. This was done through conducting narrative retells along with standardized assessments with 15 K-2 students to evaluate the microstructure features. The microstructure features coded for included MLU, Number of Different Words (NDW), Number of Total Words (NTW), Subordinate Index, Errors, and Morphological Diversity Index. When assessing the microstructure features of the oral narrative retell, it appears that students in kindergarten students produced less morphologically complex narratives while second grade students produced more lexically, morphologically, and syntactically diverse oral narrative retells as suggest the MLUw, NDW, and SI.

Keywords: Multilingual learners, microstructure features, Spanish-English