Research Symposium

BIO

I'm a Studio Art sophomore from Tampa, FL, and my current goals are to explore new artistic mediums to build up a portfolio, in particular I'm passionate about 3D modeling and animation. I'm also a traditional artist by nature, most of my work being acrylic/watercolor which is why I was fortunate enough to work with a professional painter to teach me about the Fine Art Industry.

A Study Under Artist Jiha Moon and the Application of Learned Methods

Abstract

This poster is a culmination of personal research on the working methods of Professor and artist Jiha Moon and her unique approach to documenting ideas, techniques in the mediums she employs, and the thematic relationships between imagery and material. Included will be a document of Mrs. Moon’s techniques and advice regarding art handling, preparation, gallery relationships, and organization/stocking of an art studio while I was acting as her studio assistant. In this project I will be showing a collection of sketchbooks, work-in-progresses, and final pieces that I created, while keeping in mind what I was learning under her tutelage. There will also be photographic documentation of the small-scale solo show myself and another assistant created to get a better understanding of the curatorial process for hosting artworks made with the intention of being in an art show. Each piece will have been directly informed by the independent research on medieval done for the visual symbolism incorporated; the goal of this project is to get a better understanding on the commonly overlooked aspects of art making, and to learn strategies for success from an accomplished contemporary artist.

Keywords: Hanji Painting Sketchbook Unicorn Art

BIO

My name is Estefania Cardenal and I am a first year Presidential Scholar here at Florida State University. I am from Miami, Florida and am currently a finance major.

Stand Up Branding: Does brand activism impact consumer attitudes and behaviors for every type of brand?

Abstract

This study seeks to understand brand activism advertising, consumer perceptions, and behaviors, specifically focusing on differentiating effects on hedonic and utilitarian brands. Brand activism can be defined as businesses projecting their beliefs on certain social, environmental, economic, or political issues through media, advertisements, donations, initiatives, etc. Examples of brand activism in the 21st century include stands against climate change, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice. It has become increasingly prevalent that existing literature contains numerous gaps both in examining this behavior, both from the perspective of brands and from the consumer point of view. This study adds to a more complex knowledge of how brand activism influences customer reactions and provides information that is useful for utilitarian and hedonistic marketing strategies. The approach offers a strong basis for deriving significant inferences regarding the diverse impacts of brand activism on distinct categories of brands. The next steps for this project include data collection, data analysis, conference submission, and journal submission.

Keywords: Brand Activism, Utilitarian, Hedonic, Consumer

BIO

I am a student from Fort Lauderdale, Fl, studying Chemical Engineering at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. Despite loving engineering and design, I still have unfilled interests in the natural sciences, specifically chemistry and physics. In order to pursue a deeper understanding of the natural sciences I decided to conduct research in photochemistry. Photochemistry is a relatively new field which combines chemistry and physics to understand the effect of light on reactions and materials. Working in this field has allowed me to learn more about chemistry than most classes I have taken so far. In the future I hope to combine my knowledge in the natural sciences and engineering to develop instruments and methodology for research. Besides engineering and chemistry, I also have a passion for computer science and coding. To follow this passion I am pursuing a minor in computer science.

The Photochemistry and Photophysics of Cholesta-5,7,9(11)-triene-3β-ol In Vivo

Abstract

Cholesta-5,7,9(11)-triene-3β-ol (CTL) differs from cholesterol in having two extra double bonds in the 7 and 9 positions. The triene moiety is unusual because the rigid steroid skeleton has rendered it fluorescent. CTL’s fluorescence has led to its use in monitoring cholesterol tracking within cells and membranes. Knowledge of cholesterol trafficking is essential to a better understanding of membrane structure and allows the creation of more accurate models of membrane function. Our lab has studied the photochemistry and photophysics of CTL and its 25-OH (HOCTL) derivative in aprotic and protic solutions. Photobleaching studies by others show that CTL is photochemically active in membrane media. Phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin, both capable of forming sterol domains and vesicles, are examples of biomimetic media. Our goal is to study the photochemistry and photophysics of CTL inside such domains. The synthesis of CTL from 7-dehydrocholesterol is in progress. Once CTL is on hand, we will study its photochemistry and photophysics inside vesicles. These experiments will yield the identification of photoproducts, the mechanism and quantum yields of their formation and the lifetimes of the excited state precursors. The possible toxicity of the photoproducts would influence the future use of CTL in vivo.

Keywords: photophysics, photochemistry, chemistry

BIO

nnie is a second-year undergraduate student at Florida State University majoring in Psychology . She is currently an undergraduate research assistant for the Collegiate Recovery Program under the mentorship of Dr.Chelsea Shore , which she has assisted through helping create several descriptive annotations on the growing literature on Collegiate Recovery Programs across the United States. In her undergraduate research , she hopes to continue learning about the field of addiction recovery in underrepresented groups and how programs can continue to be developed to best serve the many populations in need of assistance on their recovery journey. In the future , she plans to gain her masters in clinical psychology in order to have the knowledge to become a clinical psychologist and help others in various mental health struggles such as addiction.

Descriptive Database for the Field of Collegiate Recovery Programs

Abstract

A scoping literature review conducted by N. Vest et al. (2021) revealed a noteworthy deficiency in available evidence pertaining to CRPs.
A thorough search conducted up to August 2020 yielded only 54 articles meeting stringent criteria. Addressing this gap and furthering the work of Vest et al., Dr. Shore, supported by the Association of Recovery in Higher Education (ARHE), established an online descriptive database designed to assist college recovery program providers and collegiate administrators. The database has over 100 (N = 122) meticulously analyzed articles related to CRPs and college student recovery from substance (mis)use. Articles are systematically categorized by Author, Journal, Year, Title, Methodology, Analyses, Key Findings, SJDEI Topics, Theories, and Integrated Behavioral Health Areas, ensuring its utility as a comprehensive and structured resource for advancing research.
The database aims to guide practitioners in the field of collegiate recovery, facilitating the development and improvement of CRPs within higher education institutions (HEIs).

Keywords: Descriptive database of Collegiate Recovery Programs

BIO

Hi! My name is Courtney Boutilier and I am a sophomore from Charlotte, NC studying Political Science and Sociology. My research measures media bias in major news outlets through selection bias and presentation bias. I want to attend law school after graduation and hope to be a civil rights and immigration attorney.

Measuring and Analyzing Media Bias from Text

Abstract

Partisan bias infiltrates the media in ways that can affect political behavior. In this research, we analyze political news articles from six media organizations: CNN, Fox News, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, HuffPost, and Breitbart. We measure article-level ideological leaning by comparing the text of the news articles to that of congressional speeches. This research further analyzes partisan bias in news article text by examining two choices made by newsmakers: which events to cover and how to cover them. Combining manual coding of news articles from several major media outlets and statistical analyses, we determine whether they cover the same issues and whether they relay them similarly or in different ways. The ideological leanings of each major media organization can be due to structural differences, but they can also be accentuated by presentation bias. Some of the common strategies used to portray bias through text are selective coverage and framing, which exacerbate polarization and lead readers to seek out media that shares their pre-existing political views. The exposure of voters to partisan bias in news coverage has implications for political discourse. Our research allows us to understand the coverage of political events by media organizations and how they manifest into partisan bias.

Keywords: Media bias

BIO

My name is Isabella Dos Anjos and I am first year student from Boca Raton, Florida.

Intergenerational Influences on Conspicuous Consumerism in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: AI's Role in Retail Consumer Behavior

Abstract

The primary objectives of this research project entitled “Intergenerational Influences on Conspicuous Consumerism in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: A Cross-Examination of AI's Role in Retail Consumer Behavior” are to analyze and discover the underlying implications that artificial intelligence poses on consumerism. After some research was conducted, the research team decided to hone in on the baby boomer generational cohort and analyze their sentiments regarding AI. The main concerns that were present that we had to address when conducting this research were the ethical and the privacy concerns there are present regarding artificial intelligence. The primary methods involved in collecting the data necessary for this research project were preliminary literary analysis and survey engineering and distribution. Based on the data that has been collected thus far, the team anticipates that the baby boomer generational cohort will be more hesitant towards the implementation of AI in consumerism due to the ethical and private concerns associated with it. With a better understanding of the implications that AI has for consumers, the results will allow businesses and individuals to leverage AI and allow their business to gain a competitive advantage.

Keywords: AI, Consumerism, Business, Artificial Intelligence, Generations

BIO

Zoe is a second-year studying history at FSU. Her main research interests include mid-20th century American history and queer history. Outside of classes, she is involved with organizing FreeCon, one of FSU's largest student-run events. After graduating from FSU, she hopes to continue on to graduate studies.

Soviet Propaganda and Black Americans Before World War II

Abstract

The Cold War is traditionally dated as beginning with the establishment of the Truman Doctrine in 1947 and lasting until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. However, the ideological battle between the United States and the Soviet Union that defines this conflict appears to have begun long before this. This becomes especially apparent through the experiences of Black people and how these experiences were portrayed during the interwar period (1917-1939). Through the analysis of US State Department records and digitally-archived newspaper articles originating from 1920 to 1939, we can see both how Black people thought of their encounters with communism and the USSR and how these encounters were propagandized by the Soviet Union. This research suggests a simultaneous admiration and derision of the US that existed within the USSR. We can also see how Black Americans were included in this narrative. This research contributes to a destabilization of our common understanding of the Cold War and allows us to analyze earlier interwar events through this lens.

Keywords: Black History, Cold War, Soviet Union, communism, propaganda

BIO

Hello, I am Brooke Bodkin and I am a second year exercise physiology student at Florida State University. I have worked really hard this past year with my research mentor, Dr. Tyra Dark, to create statistical analysis' that will help us find if there is any relationship within differing health conditions, specifically poverty and obesity. This information will be used to benefit public health knowledge, and hopefully allow communities to identify solutions to lead to greater wellbeing of their residents.

Does Poverty Increase Risk of Obesity? How Family Income to Poverty Ratio Relates to BMI

Abstract

Economic hardship has been associated with many varieties of health concerns. Specifically, this study aims to find evidence relating poverty experiences to obesity. This information can be useful to allow healthcare providers more knowledge on how to best serve their communities. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Study from 2017-2020 (pre-pandemic) was analyzed. The participants were categorized in one of five categories based on the ratio of family income to poverty; they were also split into four categories based on their body mass index (BMI) category. The populations and ratios of these different groups were compared for association. Data was further broken down by genders and races. All data found a significant relationship between a person’s poverty ratio and their BMI category. These socioeconomic hardships are related to obesity within communities. This data can be useful in aiding healthcare providers in keeping their communities healthier and safer.

Keywords: Poverty, Obesity, Community, Public health

BIO

Olivia Mayer is a second-year honors student at Florida State, pursuing a double major in Political Science and Religion. She has lived in the Panhandle region of Florida for the past eight years. Her primary research interests lie in exploring the intersections of politics and religion in the American context. Olivia has plans to attend law school after graduating in Spring 2025.

How Should We Conduct a Video Diary Study?  A Systematic Review of the Diary Method

Abstract

This study addresses the lack of established best practices for using video diaries in psychological research. By reviewing over 700 articles and conducting autoethnography with four researchers, it aims to fill this gap. It systematically examines various aspects of video diary use, such as study duration, quantity, pacing, prompts, design, and analysis methods. By categorizing articles by topic and participant age, it identifies patterns to establish guidelines for effective video diary use. Preliminary findings show the value of video diaries but highlight a need for standardized methodologies .Further analysis is necessary to develop comprehensive guidelines. The study aims to consolidate existing knowledge and pave the way for future research using video diaries, offering insights from literature review and autoethnography to enhance their rigor and efficacy in psychological inquiry. In conclusion, while video diaries show promise for psychological research, more investigation into best practices is needed. This study contributes to addressing this gap and advancing the understanding and utilization of video diaries in psychological inquiry.

Keywords: video diary, psychology, methodology

BIO

Originally from Houston, Texas, I am a full-time student at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science. Since attending FSU in 2022, I have made the Dean’s List, am involved in Dance Marathon and HerCampus, and have begun Undergraduate Research through the UROP program at FSU.
I am passionate about environmentalism, journalism, and marketing, and I am searching for opportunities to become more involved and increase my knowledge in these fields. Additionally, I am involved in my sorority, Gamma Phi Beta. I have served as the Corresponding Secretary and am currently involved in Line Dance and one of our chapter's Social Media Chairs.
I am dedicated and driven to staying on top of my academics while being involved in numerous registered student organizations on campus. I look forward to continuing my degree and working towards being an Environmental Consultant.

Habitat Characterization of a Mid-Pacific Mountain Across Depth

Abstract

The deep sea is one of the least explored ecosystems on Earth. Only about 5% of the deep ocean is examined in detail, often through deep-sea ROVs documenting the sea floor thousands of meters below the surface. Our research aims to analyze one site within the Mid-Pacific Mountains to determine the overall substrate size, composition, and species diversity at differing depths.
Our research focused on two dives, which explored parts of the east side of these underwater seamounts. A ROV collected video transects across site Mid-Pacific Mountain #3 (MPM3) at different depths. Each video transect was converted to 30-second interval screen grabs, and we annotated characteristics of habitat that are known to affect deep-sea coral and megafauna assemblages on seamounts. Singular images from different transects were observed and annotated for the approximate surface area, rugosity, and laser points. Lastly, we randomly selected 15 points from each image and identified different types of substrates and marine life found on and around these seamounts. While there is still extensive data left to annotate, this study has found that the habitat characteristics of site MPM3 can range in various places. Numerous filmed locations contain different types of substrates, rugosity, etc., indicating a diverse underwater ecosystem.
Our experiment contributed to characterizing relatively unexplored seamounts in response to depth. Analyzing these vulnerable marine ecosystems at different depths will help with future research on the deep sea, which should continue to be investigated, as our data only covers one small section of the Mid-Pacific Mountains.

Keywords: Seamounts, Ocean, Habitat, Characterization

BIO

Greetings, I am second-year first generation Criminology student at Florida State University who is passionate about social justice and committed to make a positive impact in my community. My current involvements in campus organizations, such as SISTUHS Inc. and UROP, has further honed my leadership and teamwork skills. I have goals of pursuing a career in criminal defense or non-profit law.

Evanston’s Reparation Program: Local Opinions

Abstract

The topic of reparations has been an ongoing conversation for years but a town in Illinois,
Evanston has taken a step towards that. The city of Evanston offered a reparations housing
program which allowed for African American/Black residents who may have experienced or
been affected by housing discriminations that the city previously had. For the reparations
program to come to fruition it had to go through city council meetings and approval. The
program is also being funded by cannabis sales the city makes. This research aimed to look at
how residents feel about the reparation programs, how it may affect them and their
thoughts/feelings on how it is being funded. The research used participation tools to analyze
interviews, public records, and meetings. In earlier interviews, it suggested that most residents
did not know much about the program, how it was funded or about the reasoning for the
program. However, as it continued, it seemed that some residents benefited from the program,
did not oppose how it was funding, and have experienced different forms of racism in Evanston.
Besides reparations, residents also spoke on the livability of Evanston and the racial disparities in
the city. Future projects would require more investment into research and development in the
programs formation, potential legal issues it may face, how it can expand and other racial disparities present.

Keywords: Reparations, Evanston, Sociology

BIO

Hello! My name is Matt Herr, and I am a second-year International Affairs and Studio Art major. I am currently most interested in exploring how emerging technologies in the digital and AI space will come to shape our future economic, social, and political reality. I aim to explore these concepts through both research and my personal artistic practice. After completing my undergrad degree, I plan to enter a graduate urban planning program.

Analyzing Climate Services that Assess Equity and Vulnerability

Abstract

Climate services, or the applications that provide and organize climate data for easier data finding and comprehension, have seen a recent rise in popularity as a tool to combat the effects of climate change. As the effects of climate change increase in both frequency and intensity, many politicians, policy-makers and planners (i.e., decisionmakers) have come to rely on climate services to provide and organize information about the current and future impacts of climate change. Part of this reliance on climate services is a result of a lack of regulation or guidance about how decision-makers should respond to climate change. This project aims to identify the effectiveness of these climate services and how they can improve. This project is currently focused on providing this service to the Gulf Coast region of the United States. First, we identified climate services that considered equity or vulnerability that that were usable across the United States (U.S.) Gulf Coast Region, then created an analytical framework to evaluate the usability of each climate service. Our analysis yielded themes that were common across many of these climate services, with key takeaways being climate services often lack opportunities for data comparison within the program, have significant learning curves and the vast majority lacked any analysis of action options and outcomes.

Keywords: Climate Services, Climate Change

BIO

My name is Rebekah Bourque and I am originally from Sarasota, Florida. Currently, I am majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience at Florida State University. Although this makes me a STEM student, I plan on pursuing law school and eventually hope to work in Mental Health Law, combining my passion for STEM and justice for the underrepresented. The research I have participated in at FSU specifically explored the perception of adult Childhood Sexual Abuse victims after disclosing their experience to parents/parent figures, revealing what was helpful and unhelpful.

Adult Survivors of CSA Experiences with Parent Disclosure

Abstract

Sexual abuse during childhood is extremely rampant in American societies. While this experience is inherently traumatic, disclosure between victims and their parental figures can invite healing (Karakurt & Silver, 2014). Despite the potential for understanding and acceptance, experiences of sexual abuse disclosure also have the potential to induce harm. The purpose of this study was to qualitatively explore how parents’ and parent figure’s responses to adult disclosures of Childhood Sexual Abuse (CSA) impacted the survivors’ perception of the disclosure experience and develop a central theory. It further evaluated the ability of parent’s responses to either strengthen or hinder the relationship with their child. The study’s goal was then to apply these results to a theoretical framework and describe the most helpful ways for parents to respond to their children’s disclosures. In-depth semi-structured interviews with fifteen participants revealed specific responses that hindered and strengthened relationships. In developing the theory, five themes emerged: statements, questions, behaviors, positionality, and follow up questions. Additionally, wished for responses, familial context, and ongoing CSA discussions were emphasized. Parents’ specific approaches to each of these themes contextualized the impact of the CSA. In future CSA disclosures, parents can apply the in depth theoretical framework developed by this study to inform responses to CSA disclosure.

Keywords: Childhood Sexual Abuse, CSA, Parent-Child Relationships, Disclsoure, Adult-Child Parent Relationships

BIO

Imari Daniels is a senior student at Florida State University in the department of Arts and Sciences, where she is pursuing a degree in Biology. She is currently a transfer student participating in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, where she is studying the dynamics of a biofilm when antibiotic-phage therapy and the immune system are present by modifying an existing mathematical model. She has research interest in genetics, molecular biology, and epidemiology.

Phage-Antibiotic Therapy with Bacterial Swimmers in a Biofilm

Abstract

We improved and analyzed a nonlinear population dynamics model of phage-antibiotic combination therapy that accounts for the synergistic elimination of bacteria using phages and the immune system. We simulate the combination therapy model for four strains of the same bacteria that have flagella, two that are phage sensitive (and antibiotic resistant) and two that are antibiotic sensitive (and phage resistant). Within these two types, one is a planktonic bacterium, and the other is within a biofilm. We chose to use phage-antibiotic combination therapy because research shows that they exceed in elimination better than phages and antibiotic by themselves. This model also takes in account the interaction that free swimming bacteria have on the biofilm.

Keywords: phage-antibiotics therapy, biofilm, Mathematical model

BIO

My name is Deirdre Thomson and I am a sophomore undergraduate honors student from Long Island, New York. I am pursuing a major in biological sciences with a concentration in zoology, as well as a certification in data analysis. I am particularly interested in animal behavior and aspire to work towards improving conservation efforts for endangered species. After obtaining my bachelor's degree, I plan to continue my studies in graduate school.

Identifying Knowledge Gaps of the Spatial Ecology of Male Sea Turtles Through a Systematic Review

Abstract

Data on spatial distribution, home ranges, and movement patterns of species are fundamental to identify key areas of aggregation and evaluate potential threats. Substantial research has been conducted on spatial ecology of sea turtles, however most of the available information focuses on females, as they come onshore to nest. Males do not come onshore and are difficult to identify in in-water studies, as identification is only possible after sexual maturity. However, understanding the spatial distribution of all life stages of sea turtles is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of behaviors and habitats. To identify the current knowledge basis of male sea turtles, a meta-analysis was conducted where I synthesized peer-reviewed literature and obtained information on spatial ecology from various data sources, such as satellite telemetry, GPS tracking, and flipper tags. The initial search yielded 324 papers published from 1974-2017, which were narrowed down to 58 papers based on relevance. There was a visible disparity in the species represented in studies, with Loggerhead (Caretta caretta) turtles comprising 44.8% of the studies, whereas Flatbacks (Natator depressus) had no data. Spatial ecology research was most prominent in the North Atlantic, accounting for 40% of the papers. Migration was the most frequently studied topic (33%), while distribution and breeding were least covered (10% each). This meta-analysis identifies knowledge gaps in the spatial ecology of male sea turtles. To enhance our current knowledge, further research should incorporate underrepresented species across regions globally. Understanding spatial ecology is vital for informing management and designing effective conservation strategies.

Keywords: Environmental Science, Sea Turtles, Marine Ecology

BIO

A highly motivated, curious undergraduate honor student with proven
clerical and clinical skills. An adaptable and versatile student who is
excited and willing to learn new skills to further expand my knowledge
in the medical field

Using Multiple Case Study to Explore MTSS–B in Elementary Schools

Abstract

In many school systems across Florida, students are at an increased risk of academic failure due to behavior. Due to these behaviors, many students are being disciplined in forms that distance them from education. To alleviate these problems, the Florida Department of Education has mandated the use of MTSS-B in schools to support the academic and behavioral needs of students in Florida’s school systems. ​

Previous research conducted on the implementation of MTSS-B in schools has shown that the MTSS system in school systems is effective in behavioral changes (Heliyon, 2023). ​

This study’s purpose is to evaluate and investigate how school systems implement the use of MTSS-B for students with behavioral challenges.

Keywords: MTSS, Behavior, Education

BIO

Hello, everyone. My name is Jenee Gray. I'm a sophomore studying International Affairs. Here at FSU, I participate in the Residential Conduct Board and the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, where I research how potential first-generation students navigate social media to gain college information. In my spare time, you may find me forging new relationships by playing DND or dancing in J-POP-themed concert

Social Media's Role in Prospective First-Generation Students' College Decisions

Abstract

There is an overarching assumption that first-generation students, collegiate-educated students whose parents still need to complete four years of college, need more resources when deciding which college to attend. Due to this supposition, we analyze how social media might fill the knowledge gap and influence college decisions—in a previous study, Overcoming the Odds. Journal for Multicultural Education (2019), which examines a similar topic, utilized a limited sample, which inhibited them from concluding a legitimate correlation between experiences and college decisions, thus influencing our study to collect data from all races and ethnicities of first-generation students. We utilized thematic analysis and data coding from Brian and Clarke's Using Thematic Analysis to formulate two categories that depict the correlation between the usage of social media and a potential first-generation high school seniors' college decisions: the network, such as a person or organization that they follow on social media platforms, in which the students have the capability to talk to them, and the topic in which the students will learn about on social media platforms. Our finding indicates that college decisions are not altered due to the information that they acquire on social media but instead enforced. Our findings suggest that social media should be used in an educational setting as a tool for school administrators to use to help first-gen students.

Keywords: first-generation, education, social media,

BIO

Hayden Thomas is a second-year honors student at Florida State University, pursuing a double major in political science and economics. Throughout his time at FSU, he has actively engaged in various academic, research, leadership, and service endeavors, aiming to build a foundation for a future career in law. On campus, Hayden contributes as a staff writer for FSU’s Political Review and serves as the director of community service for FSU’s Honors Student Association.

Motivated by the evident deficiencies in legal services available to elderly Floridians, Hayden joined FSU’s Claude Pepper Elder Law Clinic as a research assistant. Collaborating closely with a dedicated team, he is involved in developing a comprehensive survey to identify and evaluate the legal needs of elder Floridians.

In the summer of 2024, Hayden will deepen his engagement in public interest legal services through an internship at the Public Defender’s office in his hometown of Tampa, Florida. In the upcoming 2024 academic year, Hayden aims to continue his research endeavors at FSU, culminating in an Honors in the Major thesis in political science.

Planning to attend law school upon graduation, Hayden remains dedicated to his long-term goal of practicing law while making meaningful contributions to his community.

Evaluating the Legal Needs of Low-Income Elder Floridians

Abstract

Knowledge regarding which areas of elder law in Florida currently contain the greatest demand for resources, and whether or not resources provided by both public and private entities are being allocated efficiently to meet such demand, are outdated. Florida State University’s Claude Pepper Elder Law Clinic will conduct a needs assessment to determine the legal needs of low-income elders across Florida. This updated survey aims to expand previous studies to determine whether legal needs are inaccessible due to income or whether better organization and volunteer efforts can mitigate the legal issues which currently exist for elders. The research evaluates the following: what are the current predominant legal needs of the low-income elderly population in Florida? The report will be based on survey data from Floridians across all counties. Distribution will be through the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the American Association of Retired Persons with questions focusing on what legal aid services were available, what legal issues the respondent may have had in the past three years, and any action taken to resolve the issue. Results will be summarized and distributed to legal services organizations across Florida, which work with elder services, and academic journals focused on elder justice. Preliminary results indicate a lack of knowledge of pro-bono services may be the primary reason respondents did not seek out legal services. If this remains true, we will be able to provide crucial data on how to most efficiently organize legal aid efforts.

Keywords: Legal Aid, Low-Income Elders

BIO

I am from the Tampa area and am currently in my Junior year here at FSU pursuing a Biological Sciences major. I am pursuing a career in medicine with hopes to graduate on to medical school. I thought this program would be a great way to introduce me into research and it in-fact was. I joined a project that was totally different from my career interests and found it rewarding and rather eye-opening, especially to see its possible connections to medicine in more ways than one. The my peers and mentors at RIDER Labs were amazing and I wouldn't have changed my first research experience at all, as I learned a lot and had a wonderful experience.

Small-Scale Experiments For Building Demolition

Abstract

Excavators have a wide range of uses in many different kinds of projects, but our research primarily focused on their role in construction demolition. More specifically, we have been examining the current models of excavator buckets, which have raised concerns about their work efficiency and environmental safety. We have found that these buckets do not meet modern-day expectations, especially in regards to time, cost and environmental concerns. At the RIDER Lab, we are working to bridge the gap between expectations and reality. We are using small scale excavator prototypes, shown in photos, that are managed by a game-like controller to move debris in a more efficient and timely manner, making debris recycling more achievable and economically reasonable. Our focus also remains on ensuring the amount of time being used to separate debris is cut down so recycling debris is more likely in real-world situations when time is costly. Additionally, we are using light and pressure monitoring to identify and track the best approach to quickly recover debris after a tragedy such as building collapse or detonation or even after a simple building demolition as stated before. The future of this research is promising, as it not only aims to improve efficiency and economics but also works to ensure the safety of our plant and population.

Keywords: engineering, demolition, sustainability, small-scale experiments

BIO

I am a second-year student working towards degrees in Economics and Psychology at FSU. Raised in Miami, Florida, I now study in Tallahassee where I wish to gain research experience as well as law experience. I am currently involved in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program as well as the FSU Men's Club Soccer team. After completing my undergraduate studies, I plan on applying to a law program where I can earn my JD as well as my MBA simultaneously., in order to go into corporate law.

Construction of a Historical Infrastructure Price Index

Abstract

This research project aims to develop a comprehensive historical construction price index spanning from the 20th century onwards, recognizing significant shifts influenced by factors such as inflation, technological advancements, and efficiency improvements.
In the early 20th century, the pricing of American infrastructure construction lacked digitization. To address this, microfilms from the Engineering News-Record are digitized through scanning microfilm and processing to make them machine readable. Leveraging microfilm provides access to a historical journal with weekly editions dating back to the 19th century, enabling an examination of prices for various construction elements, job-related salaries, and awarded contracts. After processing the aggregate microfilm data, images are corrected for transcription errors, and weights are assigned to individual projects. The organized aggregate data is then categorized at the city-year-infrastructure type level.
The extraction process employs text parsing and image formatting techniques to unveil relevant construction pricing information. This involves identifying monthly awarded construction contracts based on regional parameters. Specifically, machine learning methods, including Amazon Textract and Python data scraping syntax, are utilized to efficiently extract construction pricing from thousands of pages at a time.
The findings from this project hold the potential to assist policymakers and those involved in constructing new buildings in estimating potential costs. By identifying trends among historical decisions, this information contributes to more informed decision-making regarding future construction expenses.

Keywords: Economics, Python, Social Sciences