Research Symposium

BIO

My name is Aidan Wilson and I'm an economics major from Prosper, Texas. My future career goal is to become a physician and my research goal is to enhance my data analysis skills.

Quantifying and Analyzing Rates of Presenteeism

Abstract

Recently, more than ever, presenteeism has become a prominent issue, specifically in healthcare professions. The term presenteeism describes the results of burnout in the workforce, such as not functioning properly while at work. Although this term has been defined and recognized by many prestigious sources, the leading causes of presenteeism in healthcare have yet to be determined. In our study, we surveyed 198 healthcare workers and asked them specific questions about their work schedule, profession, sleep, and opinions about their presenteeism rates. Through this study, we concluded that 78.79% of participants confirmed that they had experienced presenteeism. After determining the number of participants who have experienced presenteeism, we compared specific variables to that percentage. By doing this, we discovered the main correlations that resulted in high presenteeism rates. If the participants admitted to experiencing presenteeism in the survey, we also asked them to rate different scenarios on a scale as to why they decided to show up to work sick. Additionally, it was proven that professional characteristics, quality work-life balance, sleep, and demographics heavily affect presenteeism rates.

Keywords: Burnout, Presenteeism, Health

BIO

Sofia Garcia, born and raised in Miami, Florida, is from a multinational family of Cuban, Panamanian, and Hungarian descent. Her experiences growing up in Miami, a city dominated by the tourism industry and filled with vibrant international culture, contribute to her decision to pursue a Bachelor of Science in International Affairs and a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Additionally, since her junior year of high school, Sofia has been researching youth political participation, specifically in regards to a younger generation of voters and political figures. Following the start of her postsecondary education, Sofia is grateful to continue her research through the support of the Center of Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement at Florida State University. Following graduation, she plans to go on to attend law school and possibly achieve a MS in hospitality management.

Exploring Challenges Youth Face Seeking Political Office

Abstract

Throughout America's history, gender and race discrimination has contributed significantly towards the demographic of American politicians. However, age also serves as a large contributor to who voters choose to be in office. Age requirements — set in place by the U.S. legislature — prevent individuals under a certain age from running for election into office. For example, individuals cannot run to become a member of the U.S. House of Representatives until age 25, which can create a natural bias for voters to choose older candidates. Furthermore, this project focuses on exploring the barriers that youth face when trying to run for office. In order to lay the groundwork for identifying these barriers, a literature review was conducted, analyzing previous research on the topic. This allowed for the creation of a system to identify potential obstacles youth face when pursuing office. Through gathering various statistics on the youngest members of the U.S. Congress, patterns in data helped to explain their lack of representation within the House of Representatives. These patterns include: gender, experience, and fundraising. Through these discoveries, this research extrapolates valuable metrics of existing members in Congress to help inform hardships faced by youth leaders seeking political office.

Keywords: Youth, Political, Participation

BIO

My name is Julia Matheny, I am from Tampa, Florida, and my major is IMS Clinical Professions on a Pre-Dental track. After I graduate college, I plan on attending dental school with the hopes of becoming an oral surgeon. My research project, Quantifying and Analyzing Rates of Presenteeism, is about exploring the rates and reasons people working in healthcare still come to work while they are sick. My whole life, I have always known that I wanted to work somewhere in the medical field, but I had no realistic expectations of what the work week would look like. With this in mind, it has been an honor to be able to work alongside Dr. Eric Shattuck and not only learn about what real healthcare schedules look like but also why some healthcare workers have begun to experience burnout due to overworking themselves when sick.

Qualifying and Analyzing Rates of Presenteeism

Abstract

Recently, more than ever, presenteeism has become a prominent issue, specifically in healthcare professions. The term presenteeism describes the results of burnout in the workforce, such as not functioning properly while at work. Although this term has been defined and recognized by many prestigious sources, the leading causes of presenteeism in healthcare have yet to be determined. In our study, we surveyed 198 healthcare workers and asked them specific questions about their work schedule, profession, sleep, and opinions about their presenteeism rates. Through this study, we concluded that 78.79% of participants confirmed that they had experienced presenteeism. After determining the number of participants who have experienced presenteeism, we compared specific variables to that percentage. By doing this, we discovered the main correlations that resulted in high presenteeism rates. If the participants admitted to experiencing presenteeism in the survey, we also asked them to rate different scenarios on a scale as to why they decided to show up to work sick. Additionally, it was proven that professional characteristics, quality work-life balance, sleep, and demographics heavily affect presenteeism rates.

Keywords: Burnout, Healthcare, and Sickness

BIO

Bethany Kear is a sophomore majoring in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience. She is from Fernandina Beach, Florida, but looks forward to studying in Valencia, Spain, over the summer. She is interested in the application of functional genomics approaches to investigate how aging affects the brain and peripheral tissues. In the future, Bethany hopes to become a neurologist.

Functional genomics of gut homeostasis in Nf1 mutant Drosophila

Abstract

The fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, is often used as a model to investigate aging, neurodevelopmental disorders, and various physiological phenotypes. Flies with mutations in the Nf1 gene can be used as a model of Neurofibromatosis Type 1, a genetic disorder associated with noncancerous tumors growing under the skin as well as developmental disorders like ADHD (Friedman, 2022). One of the main functions of Nf1 is to down regulate the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway, which has important functions in aging and metabolism. Recent research has shown that Nf1 mutant flies experience shortened life spans and reduced gut homeostasis, marked by increased levels of reactive oxygen species in the gut and increased gut permeability (Brown et al., 2023). This study seeks to further explore the relationship between the Nf1 gene, gut health, and aging. Using Drosophila melanogaster as a model, we performed gut dissections on 5 day old and 20 day old Nf1 mutant flies and wild-type flies. This gut tissue will be analyzed with Illumina RNA sequencing to further understand the differences in gene expression that underlie this gut phenotype during aging. With these results, we hope to gain a better understanding of the genetic basis of aging in the gut. A broader goal is to increase knowledge of gut health and lifespan in individuals with Neurofibromatosis Type 1.

Keywords: neuroscience, biology; drosophila; aging; genomics; gut health

BIO

My name is Sophia Vizoso, and I am a second-year student at FSU majoring in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience with a minor in Chemistry. Currently on the pre-medical track, I aspire to pursue a career in medicine.
During my time at FSU, I have had the privilege of participating in research under the guidance of Dr. Terence Crofts at the FSU College of Medicine. Beginning as a UROP student and now continuing as a DIS student, this experience has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of scientific inquiry. My research focus within the Crofts lab has centered on the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance. Bacteria, despite their microscopic size, are very powerful and adaptable organisms. Witnessing their ability to thrive and resist various challenges has cultivated in me a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of scientific processes and the importance of rigorous investigation in addressing such a significant concern.
I am committed to furthering my academic and professional development in the field of healthcare, and I am eager to continue contributing to meaningful research endeavors. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my experiences and research at the URS.

Hunting for Tiamulin Resistance

Abstract

Over the past few decades, there has been an increase in antibiotic resistance. This study specifically investigates Tiamulin, an antibiotic from the pleuromutilin family. Another antibiotic from the same family, lefamulin, treats MRSA, a highly contagious staph infection that is resistant to antibiotics. In this study, Tiamulin is being used as an alternative to study lefamulin. E. coli isn’t typically susceptible to Tiamulin, but given with an efflux pump inhibitor, E. coli’s growth stops. After a functional metagenomic selection and sequencing of resistant colonies, E. coli gave resistance, and colonies formed. This study aims to find resistance genes, clone them, and measure E. coli tiamulin resistance. In addition, after performing resistance testing, and analyzing the inserts that gave resistance, annotations were made on those inserts.

Keywords: Antibiotic resistance, bacteria, science, chemistry, biology

BIO

I am from Tampa, Florida and a freshman here at FSU majoring in Management Information Systems and a minor in Computer Science. I plan to also take another minor in Business Analytics. One of my career goals is to become a business analyst for either the sports or video game industry.

Complementor Evolution, Power-Dependence and Performance: Evidence from the Video-game Industry

Abstract

Complementor Evolution and Power-Dependence impact on Performance is the result of competition between platforms facilitating the interaction of different groups using a certain service or product.

Since many platforms compete with one another for performance, it’s important to analyze their mode of evolution through complements and promotion strategies.

Our goal in this project is to investigate how the complementors can rebalance their relationships within power dependence to finalize a power-dependence theory. We explore the evolution of the network to create power balance between competitive ecosystems. The study we conducted analyzes over 14,000 games across multiple platforms to examine and find relationships between the complementor evolution and platform dependence.

The linear regression provides support for our theory indicating how complementor evolution and platform dependence impact complementor performance.

Overall, this study stands to contribute to power dependence theory by enhancing dependence strategies. It also generates practical implications to create an effective solution for navigating ecosystem dynamics.

Keywords: Business, Video Games, Analysis, Sales, Business Administration

BIO

I am a freshman at Florida State University studying biomedical engineering with a passion for prosthetics and implants. In the future I would like to do research on brain-computer interfaces and how they can be applied to the field of prosthetics.

3D-Printed Assistive Devices

Abstract

The majority of publicly available, 3D-printable prosthetic devices typically serve an exclusively aesthetic purpose; nearly all of them do not actually function, do not sufficiently fit, or otherwise fail to meet a person’s needs. The goal of this project is to develop a functional, customizable, and ideally fully 3D-printable prosthetic device to publish publicly and freely for the public to download and use at minimal cost and effort to assemble. By performing literature review on previously designed models for prosthetic hands and adapting the ideas in different ways through SOLIDWORKS, we are aiming to design a suitable device to reach as large of an audience as possible that is comfortable, aesthetically pleasing, and functional, with minimal effort to assemble. The functionality of the device will be measured by using a dynamometer to assess grip force, and then compare this to the grip force required for everyday tasks.

Keywords: Prosthetics, Additive Manufacturing, Design, SOLIDWORKS

BIO

Catalina Casillas is a second-year student studying International Affairs and French at the Florida State University. Currently, she is a research assistant for Mr. Damion Boldt’s original project, “Denying Human Rights Abuses.” She also serves as a mentor for incoming international exchange students through Global Noles and most recently was inducted into alpha Kappa Delta Phi International Sorority Incorporated. She has global experience studying abroad in Prague, Czech Republic, and Urawa-ku, Japan. Next fall semester, she hopes to pursue leadership by serving on the executive board for the Filipino Student Association and Capitill State Dance Team, as well as picking up a cabinet position for alpha Kappa Delta Phi.

Investigating Strategies of Denial in Response to Targeted Mass Killings Committed by Governments

Abstract

Currently, there is a scarcity of data that prevents researchers from systematically examining strategies of denial political leaders use when faced with human rights abuse allegations. This study aims to collect data on how political leaders deny human rights abuse allegations in the context of Targeted Mass Killings. This project was conducted through case studies of individual events of Targeted Mass Killings. We searched across international news media (i.e., Associated Press, New York Times International) through Nexis Uni, a library database to determine whether political leaders employed a strategy of denial, and if so, what type of denial they used. If a strategy of denial was used, use found sources to classify and characterize the variables of the denial in accordance with code book on Excel. Additionally, we noted variables that characterize denials across each case studies. These variables include but are not limited to leaders using racial rhetoric, claiming acts of terrorism, and threats to sovereignty to mitigate allegations. To ensure credibility, each source used to code the case studies are saved with the key search terms used for reference. A survey experiment was also conducted simultaneously in the Philippines to assess the effect of public opinion on domestic and international facing factors on denial.

Keywords: human rights, denial, mass killings

BIO

I am a freshman Biomedical Engineering student from Salem, Oregon. I am a presidential scholar and I am involved in a research project at Florida State University investigating healthcare for the indigenous Wixarika people. I joined this Research project because it struck me as an interesting union of two subjects that interest me greatly: Medicine and Spanish language. I am fluent in Spanish, having spoken it since I was around 6 years old. During this Research Project, I was able to use my Spanish skills to translate patient interviews from Spanish to English and craft a translated version of a trifold to be published for doctors in Mexico. I am extremely proud of my work on this project and have immense gratitude for Dr. Shattuck and the rest of the team for their support.

Differences in Health Care Priorities Between Wixárika Patients and Mexican Doctors

Abstract

There are around 45 million indigenous people that make up over 400 indigenous groups in North, Central, and South America. Of these 45 million, 33-40 million live in Latin America (Central and South America) and the Caribbean. The Wixarika people, also known as the Huichol, have resisted complete Mexican assimilation and attempted to keep their language, values, political autonomy, and cultural identity functioning. While lots of information exists outlining the various barriers to healthcare for indigenous populations including poverty, education, geographic location, etc. There is very little information and research centered on the barrier that is a difference in spoken languages. The Wixarika people speak the Wixarika language. However, as they live in Jalisco, Mexico, and other nearby states, the common language in their area is Spanish. While some Wixarika speak Spanish, others do not. This creates a language barrier between the Spanish-speaking physicians and clinicians and their indigenous patients. This research project aimed to address the lack of information available in the field of language barriers and healthcare by recording and analyzing primary accounts from health practitioners in Jalisco, Mexico, and Wixarika patients. Prior to conducting these interviews, it was hypothesized that there would be discrepancies between patient and doctor concerns, visible through the comparison of interviews. If the responses given by the two groups were determined to be very different, this may indicate barriers to care for indigenous populations.

Keywords: Indigenous, Healthcare, Spanish

BIO

My name is Richard de la Rosa, I am a finance major from Fort Lauderdale, FL. I am a freshman here at FSU. UROP has been a wonderful experience over the past year and I am thrilled to present my reseach mentor and I's results.

Intonation patterns in the Spanish in Pasto, Colombia

Abstract

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. More than 486 million people speak it. But not everybody speaks Spanish the same way. There are numerous distinct Spanish dialects due to factors including location, distance, and culture. The dialects of Pasto, Colombia, are the main subject of this study. The purpose of the research is to examine distinctive acoustic characteristics and comprehend the parallels and discrepancies between Spanish that is derived from Andean and Quechua. In this poster, the results form 80 sentences from a native speaker of Spanish are analyzed using the software Praat and intonation tags based on the AutoSegmental-Metrical Model (Pierrehumbert, 1980; Beckman et al., 2002) and the Sp_ToBI labeling system (Face & Prieto Vives, 2007: Estebas Vilaplana & Prieto Vives, 2008; Hualde & Prieto Vives, 2016). Among the goals of this research is to expand the collection of intonation patterns in Andean Spanish. This poster also seeks to highlight the importance of Pasto's linguistic diversity and promote its appreciation as a cultural resource and academic value on the Spanish language landscape in Colombia.

Keywords: Spanish, Intonation, Colombia

BIO

Hello, my name is Lauren Bing and I am a junior at Florida State University. I am working towards my bachelors degree in Exercise Physiology with a minor in Child Development with hopes of attending medical school for my post graduation. I have been in love with science since I was little. With many medical field role models in my life, I was immersed into the world of taking care of people. I wanted to help patients like my mentors around me, and with their support, I hope to have the opportunity to fulfill this dream in my future. During my education at FSU, I have participated in Division 1 track and cross country for three years. It has been a blessing to be able to continue to run for such a prestigious program while also pursuing my dreams of becoming a doctor. In my free time, I volunteer and lead a youth ministry group called YoungLife for middle schoolers in the Tallahassee area. This has given me a lot of opportunity to grow in my community in college while also learning how to become a strong mentor.

Arithmetic Skills in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease – Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Deficiencies in general arithmetic abilities appear to serve as an initial indicator of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, research findings are inconsistent regarding the specific abilities that are affected. Furthermore, there is a lack of a comprehensive literature review that consolidates the progression of changes in arithmetic skills within the spectrum from Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer's disease.

Objective: Our objective is to systematically review the existing literature examining the performance of individuals with MCI and AD in arithmetic skills. The aim is to consolidate current knowledge on this subject and provide insights into potential avenues for future research.

Methods: PRISMA guidelines were applied to carry out the systematic literature search. Literature chosen described arithmetic skills in patients with MCI and/or AD. We excluded articles concentrating on financial capabilities or understanding medical information, non-English papers, and case-studies regarding one or two people. We categorized the articles into different areas of arithmetic skill (example: different arithmetic operations, type of numbers used).

Results: Through our search, 122 articles, identified 36 to include that specifically discussed the arithmetic skills in patients with MCI and/or AD.

Conclusion: In general, people with MCI or AD perform worse on arithmetic skills when compared to healthy older adults in both speed and accuracy measures. One of the reasons for this could be due to decline in working memory which is critical in conducting mental arithmetic (Uittenhove, 2015).

Keywords: Arithmetic, Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, mathematic

BIO

Hello, my name is Nihar Sanku, and I am a first-year student from Nashville, Tennessee. I am currently researching the extent to which social validity is assessed in interventions for children with autism. I am interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, and am eager to learn more about the clinical sciences.

Assessing Social Validity of Educational Interventions for Children with Autism

Abstract

Autism affects an estimated one in thirty-six children in the US. This highlights the importance of conducting research pertaining to effective instrumental practices with the intention of bringing an increased focus to this subject field. The project at hand conducts a scoping review of the social validity relevant to ASD intervention studies. As such, the research project will undergo four stages of a scoping review, including identification, screening, eligibility, and a quantitative synthesis. Many evidence-based instructional strategies have been proven helpful, but ultimately, these interventions are only useful if consumers are willing to use them and are socially valid. Consumers can include educators, caregivers, and the children themselves. The reason for social validity assessments is to anticipate if an intervention is going to be rejected before it is used. This study aims to determine what proportion of studies include social validity assessments, what methods researchers use to assess social validity, and whose perspectives are represented in the social validity assessments. The results of this research project are currently ongoing as we conduct the data extraction process.

Keywords: autism, social validity, interventions

BIO

My name is Camila Maldonado, I am a second-year student at Florida State University majoring in Political Science and Criminology with a minor in communications from Orlando, Florida.
At the Department of Sociology, I conduct a legal analysis on punishment in low resource Florida schools and the variation of incidents reported to law enforcement and how it contributes to the school-to-prison pipeline. Through data collection and freedom of information requests, I am exposing the relationship between financial inequities and institutional actions.
At the Department of Political Science, I conduct research as an Honors in the Major examining the crisis at the United States and Mexico border, focusing on conditions within migrant detention facilities, violence and exploitation targeting vulnerable populations, and health risks confronting migrants. I also explore how migrant smuggling, human trafficking, and drug trafficking intensify the crisis. I aim to inform policy recommendations and interventions to defend the well-being of migrants through an analysis of interconnected issues.
I plan to pursue a Juris Doctorate in hopes of becoming an immigration lawyer, with a strong commitment to social justice and providing legal representation for those who lack a voice and struggle to assert their rights.

Punishment in Florida School's: Variations in Incidents Reported to Law Enforcement

Abstract

After Senate Bill 7026 or the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act was passed, Florida's School Resource Officer (SRO) program was given a funding boost. The issue of SROs in schools is divisive since the data on their effectiveness is inconsistent. Some scholars advise against the influence of these programs and suggest that they contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline, while others advocate for their role in guaranteeing safety and reducing delinquency. This case study examines the impact of Florida’s SRO program by comparing the percentage of infractions reported to law enforcement as well as punishment disparities between low- and high-poverty schools within the Leon County District in the State of Florida. Responding to research that examines key legal decisions shaping educational disparities and the school to prison pipeline, research findings illustrate a potential connection between residential segregation, school resource disparities, and punishment. By examining the relationship between financial inequities and institutional actions with far-reaching implications, the study seeks to highlight the urgent need for systemic reform in school safety and punishment.

Keywords: School, School Resource Officer, Law enforcement, Poverty

BIO

Hi! I am Iyanna Perry, a second-year junior majoring in Psychology with a Spanish minor from Tampa, FL. I aspire to be a Counseling Psychologist and spread mental health resources and aid to those in underrepresented communities or for government agencies such as the VA. Outside of academia I enjoy reading, spending time with loved ones, and going to the beach.

Impact & Efficacy of Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) on Student Outcomes: A systematic review of literature​ ​

Abstract

This project brings to light the need for more research on collegiate recovery programs across college campuses. Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) are health programs within higher education institutions which offer students in recovery a drug and alcohol-free space to study, socialize, garner support, and receive peer connections with other students in recovery (Laudet et al., 2016)​. Recovery is the process of making positive changes in one's lifestyle and behaviors to abstain from substance misuse and addictive behaviors to maintain a healthy physical and emotional well-being. ​Nascent research has shown that CRPs have a linkage to lower student relapse rates and an increase in academic achievement (Laudet, et al., 2015)​. This poses a mounting behavioral health disparity issue that is under-researched in the current literature.​ This research aims to analyze the present findings from the current literature surrounding CRPs and their impact on student outcomes whether that be academic, social, behavioral health outcomes, etc. We did this by conducting a systematic literature review and synthesis of the extant literature, we discussed our findings and suggested future directions for the research and application of the topic.

Keywords: Psychology, Mental Health, Collegiate Recovery, Social Support

BIO

Ayla is a second year undergraduate student at Florida State University studying Behavioral Neuroscience with a minor in Chemistry. She is originally from Boulder, Colorado and she completed her first year abroad in Valencia, Spain and Florence, Italy. Ayla is currently involved in two research labs on campus and she is excited to keep exploring more projects in the fields of Psychology and Neuroscience. She feels passionate about topics in mental health and is currently involved with the outreach committee of the Mental Health Council at FSU. Ayla intends to graduate in the Spring of 2025 to pursue a masters in Psychology.

A Comprehensive Literature Review of Eating Disorders in LGBTQ+ College-Aged Individuals

Abstract

Current research has suggested that LGBTQ college-aged individuals
might be at a higher risk of developing eating disorders in comparison to
their cisgender peers. Our comprehensive literature review aims to
identify current gaps in research towards treating this population of
individuals. The study also aims to further understand aspects of
symptomatology, interventions, and treatments of eating disorders
within this population based on the information gathered from these
online sources. Lastly, this exploration aims to promote awareness for
members of this population, provide recommendations for future areas
of research, and to provide future implications.
The literature review was completed using key search terms relevant to
the study’s questions to identify and assess current information
concerning this population of individuals. A primary and secondary
search was conducted to filter sources from multiple online library
databases containing relevant information.

Keywords: LGBTQ+ eating disorders

BIO

Jackson Credle is a first year student at Florida State University majoring in Real Estate. He has been conducting research under Xiaonan Jiang to develop a literature review surrounding museum educational practices in China.

Museum Educational Practices in China

Abstract

Museums across the globe demonstrate different cultures and events of significance throughout our history through spectacles of different art, relics, monuments, and memorials. Despite this commonality throughout all museums, the cultural significance and the methods of demonstration vary from nation to nation. With China’s elaborate and extended history, museums are very common and assumed to be of high cultural significance. This study was conducted by Professor Jiang, utilizing a literature review of scholarly sources to investigate museum educational practices in China. Through the examination of the nation’s most influential museums and displays, this research aims to identify the different educational programs and opportunities offered to the community within these exhibits, as well as the methods of advertisement and the attraction of the audience to the museums. These factors are examined through both the modernization of exhibits and the use of technology within these exhibits, as well as the resources provided to visitors to further their understanding of the demonstrations. In addition to these factors, this research will also examine the influence of the government within these museums through both the continuous funding and the regulations placed on the exhibits. This abstract offers a brief overview of the multi-faceted examination of museum culture and its significance in China.

Keywords: Museum, Education, China

BIO

Born in Wellington, FL and currently living in Mexico City, Mexico.
Currently interested in research regarding political systems, media, and law

The Implications of AI-Generated Media on Copyright Policy

Abstract

Visual art that has been generated by Artificial Intelligence has become a topic of significant controversy within US copyright law. Despite current attempts to modify copyright law in order to address the constantly increasing surge of disputes with AI art, a lack of historical precedence has clouded the issue with much uncertainty. The purpose of this research paper is to examine the legal responses of recently established copyright policy on visual art that has been generated by artificial intelligence (AI) and its subsequent implications. Through the analysis of recent developments made in AI copyright policy within both US and international law, it can be found that the legal responses made by legislators have sided against artists who use AI generated works along with those whose original works they are derived from. This was done through the review of both legal and sociological literature. Furthermore, the implications of these policies vary due to conflicts of culture seen within US and EU copyright proceedings. The research that is being showcased within this paper will not only explore the legal and ethical implications of new AI copyright policies, but also how the advancement of AI technologies are affecting societies concepts of art and originality. From this research, an outline of a policy recommendation with the aim of finding a solution to the found implications will be created and justified.

Keywords: artificial intelligence, copyright, art, AI

BIO

I am in my third year at FSU pursuing a degree in psychology. I have grown to love the research side of psychology, specifically in the social domain. Group dynamics, bias, threat-perception, first impressions, and intellectual humility are areas that I enjoy exploring and have looked into throughout my time at FSU. After graduation, I aim to continue my studies all the way to a Ph.D.

View from the Right: Political Orientation and the Automatic Association Between Black and Physical Threat

Abstract

White Americans hold an automatic association linking Black with physical danger threat. Across various domains, conservatives tend to be more threat-sensitive. Consequently, conservatism may be associated with a stronger link between Black and physical danger threat. The current research tests whether conservatism (among Whites) moderates the association between Black versus White and physical danger threat. Pilot Studies 1a and 1b clarify that conservatism is specifically associated with physical danger versus other threats. In Study 1, conservatism versus liberalism strengthened the perceptions of physical danger threat of unambiguously Black stimuli. In Study 2, conservatism strengthened the association between perceiving point-light walkers as physical danger threats and as Black versus White. In Study 3, conservatism strengthened the association between perceiving names as physical danger threats and as Black versus White. Consequently, anti-Black attitudes among more conservative versus liberal individuals may be more so underlied by associations linking Black to physical danger threat.

Keywords: Prejudice, Political Orientation, Threat, Bias, Conservatism

BIO

My name is Whitney Bouk and I am a first-year student at Florida State University majoring in Political Science from Gulf Breeze, Florida.

At the Claude Pepper Elder Law Clinic, I conduct research assessing the legal needs of the low-income elderly population in Florida, in order to ensure that resources across the state are allocated effectively to meet their needs.

I am additionally involved in FSU Honors, FSU Presidential Scholars, and Women in Business.

Evaluating the Legal Needs on 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. A needs assessment will be conducted by Florida State University Claude Pepper Elder Law Clinic 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: what are the current predominant legal needs of the low-income elderly population in the state of 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 service. If this remains true, we will be able to provide crucial data on how to most efficiently organize legal aid efforts.

Keywords: Survey Elder Law

BIO

I am a first-generation college student from Belle Glade, Florida. I really enjoy conducting research on underserved populations, particularly Black immigrant women in the United States. Being that I myself am Haitian, I find it interesting to examine how my people, along with other Caribbean people are treated by American healthcare. By learning more about these disparities, I believe that I can play a hand in dismantling these systems that do more harm than they do good. I am currently majoring in nursing and I hope to be able to earn my Master's degree by my anticipated undergraduate graduation year which is 2027. In the near future, I hope to earn my DNP and conduct clinical research for the benefit of society. Other than research and academics I volunteer at the TMH hospital, am involved in the founding chapter of National Society of Black Women in Medicine (NSBWM), Unconquered Scholars, CARE, as well as Presidential Scholars. I am very grateful for UROP and its role in my first year here at FSU. Because of UROP, I was catapulted into a world that I want to continue to discover, the world of research!

Sexual and Reproductive Health Disparities among Afro-Caribbean Women in the United States

Abstract

A persistent problem among Black women in the U.S. is sexual and reproductive health disparities. Ethnic and cultural backgrounds, customs, norms, and values drastically vary among the Black diaspora in the United States (U.S.). Moreover, one in ten Black people in the U.S. are immigrants. Yet, in research, people are viewed with minimal to no regard for their nativity. This comprehensive literature review aims to address this gap by focusing on the sexual and reproductive health disparities faced by Afro-Caribbean (i.e., Black Caribbean) women in America. We searched four databases: PubMed, ProQuest, EBSCO, and MEDLINE. Peer-reviewed articles and grey literature published within the last ten years were included in this review. Studies were included in the review if they reported on the sexual reproductive health outcomes of Afro-Caribbean women in the U.S. and Canada and were published between 2014 and 2024. Findings from the review highlighted disparities in healthcare utilization, social support needs, and challenges in accessing HIV/AIDS services among Afro-Caribbean women and other foreign-born women. This literature review revealed that sexual reproductive health disparities exist between foreign-born Black women and native-born Black women. In addition, this review highlighted the inequities in accessing quality healthcare among foreign-born Black women in America. Research is limited on Afro-Caribbean women regarding sexual and reproductive health disparities. To better serve the sexual and reproductive health needs of Black women in the U.S., more research is needed that considers the ethnic and cultural differences within the U.S. Black population.

Keywords: disparities, sexual, maternal, health, reproductive