BIO

Hello, my name is Pavitra Chall, but most people call me Pavi. I am a freshman Psychology major at Florida State University. I have long had an interest in human behavior and people, which is why I joined UROP. I currently plan on using this research experience to become a therapist. Aside from research, I love reading, music, and gaming.

The Consequences of Caregiving in the US: Why Time Commitment Matters

Abstract

Unpaid care providers, also known as informal caregivers, assist individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities with tasks like eating, walking, bathing, using the restroom, and other necessities like meal planning, grocery shopping, budgeting, and housekeeping. Past studies on informal caregivers, who are frequently family members, have looked at this subgroup's demographics and how problems like poverty and health difficulties impact them. This study examines how the connection between time spent providing care and self-reported health indicators varies among sociodemographic groups with different access to resources and social power, building on the findings of earlier studies. Using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System with a sample of 33,606 caregivers, the association between time-intensive caregiving, defined as 20 or more hours per week, and the sociodemographic traits of the caregiver and care receiver populations in this case study is examined. Research demonstrates a strong correlation between time-intensive care and being a Black and poor caregiver. It also demonstrates the likelihood that these caregivers may struggle to get the support they need for their care. Results show that they struggle with mental health concerns for a longer period each month. This study backs initiatives aimed at giving caregivers greater resources, which could reduce the strain that a substantial caregiving commitment places on unpaid friends and family members. The results further emphasize the need for customized assistance for caregivers with particular impairments, as these caregivers are more likely than others to experience burnout when caring for patients with certain conditions.

Keywords: caregivers, sociology, inequality

BIO

I am a senior majoring in meteorology from Zephyrhills, FL. I hope to one day work for the National Weather Service or a daughter agency under NOAA.

An Atmospheric-Terrestrial Teleconnection Study for Lake Sinkhole Dry-Down Events in Tallahassee, Florida

Abstract

The El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a climate pattern that involves the fluctuation of sea surface temperatures above the equatorial Pacific, caused by a change in the direction of the trade winds in that region. For the southeast United States, it has been long established that, in the wintertime, an El Nino event will bring wetter than average conditions and a La Nina event will bring drier than average conditions. This, of course, includes Florida's panhandle. A majority of the panhandle, including Tallahassee, is made up of karst. This makes it so that the terrain is very soluble and porous, allowing precipitation to eventually flow into groundwater and alter the groundwater level in the Floridan Aquifer. From here, it has been established that more precipitation (wetter conditions) would lead to rising groundwater levels and less precipitation (drier conditions) would lead to sinking groundwater levels. And, following that path of logic, a fluctuation in groundwater levels in the aquifer has been seen to affect the frequency of sinkholes, or more specifically, lake sinkholes. These individual relationships have been long established on a larger spatial scale. The goal of this research is to apply similar methods to determine if the relationship exists between ENSO and groundwater fluctuation on a local scale so it can later be applied to predict the behavior of sinkholes.

Keywords: sinkhole groundwater precipitation ENSO hydrology

BIO

Greetings! I'm Owen Howardand I am a sophomore majoring in Computational Biology. Throughout my life, I've always been fascinated by computer science: how writing code can make computers do things that are very difficult for humans, such as solving complex math problems. My focus, however, is more on the biological side. As someone who has been driven to understand the complexities of the genome, computer science skills allow me to analyze scaffolds and fragments and create mock transcriptions. From there, I can examine matches in the different scaffolds to determine how closely related different genes are. Practicing these techniques in UROP has given me a front hand experience of the research I will one day be able to lead and conduct.

Evolutionary history of the chorus frog (Pseudacris ferarium) gamma aminobutyric (GABA) receptors

Abstract

The chorus frog (Pseudacris ferarium) is a species of amphibian that uses acoustic signals for mating. Female preferences for these signals are performed through activation of neural circuits in the chorus frog central nervous system. However, very little research exists concerning the evolution of these neural circuits, specifically with respect to the evolution of neurotransmitter proteins that determine the circuit behavior. To conduct this research, I extracted transmitter proteins transcript sequences (i.e., GABA subunits) from a reference transcriptome and mapped those sequences to the chorus frog genome. I then visualized the resulting mapping in Geneious Prime to identify relative genome positions of the transcripts. The purpose was to determine if any of the transmitter genes were physically linked in the genome, in addition to basic information about the number of exons in each gene. Of the 29 transmitter genes obtained from the reference transcriptome, 31% mapped to the genome. This indicates the genome is incomplete. One interesting finding of this study is that two of the transcripts were overlapping in genomic position but in reverse orientation.

Keywords: biology, genetics, computer science, computational biology, computational science, bioinformatics

BIO

I am a sophomore meteorology student from Northern Virginia and plan on getting my master's in atmospheric science after I complete my undergraduate studies. After completing schooling, I hope to work with the National Weather Service. In my free time, I like to go hiking, running, and play basketball.

Assessing Future Heat Wave Patterns in India: Insights from a High-Resolution Regional Climate Model​

Abstract

This research investigates the impact of climate change on heat wave patterns in India from the late 20th century (1986-2005) to the mid-21st century (2041-2060). Utilizing 20-km resolution regional climate model simulations, we estimate the projected changes in the timing, duration, and frequency of 1 to 5-day heat wave events. We utilize two heat wave indices, HI14 and HI15, where a heat wave is defined as the daily highest heat index surpassing 90°F for HI14 and 105°F for HI15. Results indicate a projected future shift towards earlier onset, and later demise of heat waves, implying an expansion of the season of their occurrence. In addition, the frequency of heat waves is expected to increase in the future. This study highlights the pressing need for adaptation in India, as increasingly severe and prolonged heat waves threaten agriculture, water resources, and public health. Policymakers can use these insights to mitigate climate change impacts on vulnerable areas.

Keywords: Meteorology Climate Change Atmospheric Science

BIO

Hello my name is Sophia Maslyn and I am an honors student at Florida State University studying Environmental Science and Media/Communication Studies. I am originally from New York and have always had a passion for studying ecosystems with high biodiversity which heavily influenced my decision to attend FSU given the variety of opportunities. I have a strong passion for coastal ecology and understanding how the ocean can interact and impact different types of ecosystems. I also have a particular interest in implementing sustainable practices in every aspect of life which overlaps my love for the environment with many of my other interests including broadcast media, journalism, fashion, and production.

Red and Black Mangroves Defoliation Responses Post-Freeze Event Using Drone Imagery

Abstract

Mangroves are intertidal trees that are typically located in tropical and subtropical coastal areas due to temperatures in higher latitudes that can cause damage and/or mortality. However, climate change is making winter temperatures more mild, allowing mangroves to survive and establish in higher latitudes, resulting in mangroves encroaching on other habitats. We are seeing this phenomenon in Apalachicola Bay, Florida. Both red (Rhizophora mangle), and black mangroves (Avicennia germinans) have been documented in this region, also a unique phenomenon since other Gulf of Mexico states are only seeing black mangroves expanding. Our study uses aerial imagery to assess defoliation in red and black mangroves after a freeze event at one site, Pilot’s Cove. To estimate the resilience of mangrove trees after a freeze event, we recorded the percent of mangroves defoliated over the course of two years and their position in the habitat, on the water’s edge or in the interior. This research will give us a better idea of which type of mangrove is more tolerant after a freeze event. This information will allow coastal managers to better predict how mangroves are expanding and additionally provides knowledge to how each species will react during future freeze events.

Keywords: mangrove, remote sensing, freeze event

BIO

Hello everyone! My name is Jalina Hess, and I am from Panama City Beach, FL. I am interested in pursuing a career as either a women's health nurse practitioner or nurse midwife. Similarly, my research interests fall into these domains of obstetrics and neonatology with a specific interest in the physiological and social impacts of breastfeeding.

Changes in Mother-Infant Social Interactions Based on Food Type

Abstract

Benefits of breastmilk are numerous. Studies have shown differences in infants fed breastmilk versus formula; thus breastmilk is encouraged when possible. Infants who receive the largest portion of their diet from breastmilk and also receive the most physical touch are the most likely to score well on cognitive tests. However, more research is needed on whether breastmilk impacts social interactions such as physical touch between a mother and her infant. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in social interaction based on food type. Mother-infant dyads (N=21) completed study visits at infant age of 1 to 4 months. Social interaction was measured with the Infant Feeding Questionnaire and mothers reported what the infant was fed at each visit. Of the infants breastfed exclusively for the duration of the study, 56% had an increase in social interaction between 1 and 4 months compared to 43% who were fed some or all of their diet through formula (p=0.69). Additionally, social interaction increased in more infants who were exclusively breastfed (60%) or exclusively formula fed (60%) at 4 months compared to infants who received mixed feedings (17%) (p=0.4). These findings were not statistically significant likely due to the small sample size but suggest that receiving breastmilk only or a consistent food may increase social interaction in the first 4 months of life. Future research should test this correlation with a larger sample size. Additionally, maternal prolactin levels should be explored as research has suggested a correlation with social interaction.

Keywords: Breastfeeding, Social Interaction, Infants

BIO

My name is Christine Yu and I am currently a freshman majoring in biochemistry. I am originally from Taiwan but have lived in Cocoa Beach, FL for about seven years now. I enjoy drawing and spending time with my younger brother in my free time. I hope to pursue dental school after graduation and work to become an orthodontist. My research interests lie in the field of antimicrobial peptides, chemical reactions, and catalysts.

Characterization of Metals in Organometallic Catalysts using High Field Solid-State NMR Spectroscopy

Abstract

Catalytic materials are critical to improve the efficiency of chemical processes and meet the global energy demands. The rational design and synthesis of catalysts relies on atomic-level characterization tools such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The development and application of solid-state NMR techniques to study nuclei relevant to catalysts will benefit the design of better catalysts.
Here, we study the local environments of titanium (Ti), zirconium (Zr), and molybdenum (Mo) in materials relevant to catalysis using solid-state NMR. Ti has two NMR-active isotopes 47Ti and 49Ti, which are quadrupolar, have low gyromagnetic ratios, and are close in Larmor frequency. As a result of these interactions, 47/49Ti solid-state NMR spectra show poor sensitivity and resolution. This study focuses on lessening the broadening in 47/49Ti solid-state NMR at high magnetic fields of 18.8 T. High magnetic fields can narrow the linewidths of solid-state NMR spectra of quadrupolar nuclei significantly, thereby improving sensitivity. We are presently applying this approach to materials containing Ti such as titania (anatase and rutile) and a Ti organometallic complex. Furthermore, this project attempts to separate the spectra of 49Ti and 47Ti by using differences in NMR excitation profiles, which will improve spectral resolution and data analysis. The approaches developed in this study will be extended to 91Zr and 95Mo in the future, and the understanding from this work ultimately benefit the design of better catalytic materials.

Keywords: NMR spectroscopy, catalysts, chemistry, metals

BIO

Hello! My name is Mickelie, but most people call me Mickey. I am a second-year pre-medical student at Florida State University, majoring in Biological Science with minors in Psychology, Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Science. My main research interest is neuroscience, specifically neurophysiology, behavioral neuroscience, neurodegenerative diseases, and advancements in medical procedures regarding the human nervous system and how to properly support people who are dealing with various impairments due to neurological decline. These topics inspired my current interest in studying the relationship between sleep and diet, allowing me to explore how behavior can affect an organism's metabolic processes just as much as said processes influence its behavior. My ultimate goal is to develop the skills I've gained throughout my life, education, and research to become a proper physician: not only one that has enough knowledge to diagnosis and solve a problem, but also one that actively makes a difference in a person's life and inspires them to have hope and live their life happily and successfully.

The Relationship between Diet and Sleep-related behavior

Abstract

Metabolic processes are crucial for an organism's survival, being closely tied to development and energy production. Their effectiveness is dependent on factors like sleep, diet, and physical health. While it is acknowledged that within this biological relationship model, sleep and metabolic processes share a strong relationship, there is a lack of analytical research into the relationships between the various specific factors themselves that contribute to the strength of this relationship. This project seeks to focus on two of them, sleep and diet, to gain an understanding of how they are connected, and ultimately to draw inferences on how malnutrition affects an organism’s ability to cope with sleep deprivation. Their relationship will be analyzed through a series of experiments performed on Drosophila to understand how they influence each other and the metabolic processes that drive them. The subjects will be fed specialized diets that represent three common types of diets in human beings: high fat, high sugar, and high protein, in order to observe how they affect the sleeping habits of the Drosophila. Observations will be done through sleep experiments that will analyze their sleeping habits, rebound rates, and behavior. Poor dietary habits can have adverse effects on the quality of life of an organism, impacting its energy, life span, holistic health, and sleeping habits (Everson, 1993; Yamazaki, 2012). In analyzing the relationship between the vital survival habits of sleep and diet, we can better understand the human condition and work towards ways of improving public health from an individual level.

Keywords: sleep, neuroscience, diet, behavior, drosophila

BIO

I am a second-year Behavioral Neuroscience major from Inverness, Florida. I chose my field of study based on my love of Biology, Psychology, Medicine, and Anatomy. My research interests include investigating the causes and impacts of psychiatric conditions, neurocognitive conditions, brain structure and function, hormone imbalance, and nervous system impairments. My favorite part of research is hands-on data collection, which includes interacting with subjects and completing different kinds of lab work. After graduation, I hope to attend medical school, earn an MD, and possibly focus my career on Pediatrics, Family/Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, or Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Analyzing the Relationship Between Depression, Hypertension, and Discrimination

Abstract

The interconnected relationship between the mind and body is one often analyzed in the fields of neuroscience and psychology, especially when it comes to how certain physical circumstances influence psychological conditions and the role of the environment. While previous studies suggest that depression leads to an increase in hypertension (high blood pressure) diagnosis, the influence of certain external factors, such as discrimination, is not often considered as impactful when compared to economic position or interpersonal relationship status. To further investigate the relationship between discrimination, depression, and hypertension, this study used data from the National Survey of American Life (NSAL). Discrimination and depressive symptomology scores were calculated for the 5,892 study participants. Bivariate analysis showed a statistically significant association between race/ethnicity and high blood pressure. There was no statistically significant relationship between discrimination and hypertension or between depressive symptomology and hypertension. A multiple logistic regression analysis tested the following model: High blood pressure = depressive symptomology + race + discrimination + (race* discrimination). The overall model was statistically significant (Chi-Square = 3.14; p<.005), demonstrating that the combination of exposure variables was predictive of high blood pressure. Additionally, race/ethnicity were shown to be statistically significant independent predictors of hypertension. Results showed that the African American population has a greater likelihood of high blood pressure compared to the non-Latino White population. The other-Hispanic population has a lower likelihood of hypertension compared to the non-Latino White population. Further analyses are required to further elucidate the reported discrimination and risk of hypertension relationship.

Keywords: Depression, Discrimination, Hypertension

BIO

My name is Elijah Gardiner, I am psychology student and hopeful social work student in the fall. I am a proud member of the Marching Chiefs. I plan on continuing in research to hopefully go on through graduate school. I hope to work with the military veteran population in mental health services in whichever way my talents best reach them.

Short-Term Stability and Change in People’s Partner Preferences and Perceptions of Their Partners

Abstract

There is an expanding body of literature examining people’s ideal partner preferences and the extent to which their partners’ traits match those preferences, which has been shown to predict relationship outcomes such as satisfaction (Fletcher et al., 1999). Our research aims to investigate whether people’s preferences and/or their perceptions of their partners’ traits are relatively stable or change over time. Previous work has found that preferences and partner perceptions remain largely stable over the long term (Driebe et al., 2023). Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether these traits are malleable across shorter time intervals, and this was the goal of the present research. In pursuit of this goal, we recruited 233 participants in relationships for an online study in which participants reported their preferences and their partner perceptions twice—four weeks apart. We used bivariate correlations, descriptive statistics, and paired-samples t-tests to examine stability and change in preferences and partner perceptions from Time 1 to Time 2. We found that preferences for attractiveness-vitality and status-resources increased, whereas preferences for warmth-trustworthiness did not change. Preferences for warmth-trustworthiness appeared to demonstrate a ceiling effect across both assessments, suggesting participants may highly and stably value this trait in partners. Moreover, whereas perceptions of partners’ more objective traits (i.e., attractiveness and status) did not change, perceptions of partners’ more subjective traits (i.e., warmth) were malleable; specifically, they decreased. Together, these findings provide evidence for stability and change in preferences and partner perceptions in theoretically sensible ways.

Keywords: Psychology, Social Psychology, Relationships

BIO

I am Abhik Saha, a first-year student majoring in finance and real estate at Florida State University pursuing a career in investment banking and private equity. Currently, I am conducting in economic research aimed at constructing a historical price index. Some of my current commitments involve participating in a spring internship in private equity, serving as a portfolio analyst for the real estate investment fund, and working as an undergraduate assistant. I am involved with Securities Society, PEVC Club, and the Real Estate Society.

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, Price Index, Construction Prices

BIO

I am a second-year student at Florida State University from Palm Beach, FL. I am currently pursuing a major in Nursing as a first-generation student of Haitian descent. With a commitment to making a difference in the community, I am an active participant in the CARE program, and am a proud member of SISTUHS INC. Dedicated to my studies and passion for healthcare exemplifies my aspirations to impact the lives of others positively.

Exploring Differential Instruction Strategies to Foster Students’ Sensemaking in Science Classroom

Abstract

In connection with a multi-year longitudinal professional development (PD) program, this research investigates science teachers’ learning to influence student sensemaking in the classroom so that they may more actively flourish in scientific thinking. Sensemaking in education involves the dynamic process of students actively constructing understanding through interaction with their peers and teachers. In science education, effective sensemaking occurs when teachers engage students in hands-on experiences and discourse to make sense of them and foster a holistic comprehension of concepts. This qualitative study uses teacher interviews and classroom video observations to explore how one secondary science teacher engages students in science experiences through differentiated instruction to support their sensemaking. The findings of this study seek to name teachers' changes in classroom practices following a professional development designed to help teachers facilitate and engage students in science talk and critical thinking in their classrooms.

Keywords: science education, professional development, science instruction

BIO

Madison Zelner is an honors student majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience with a minor in Chemistry. Madison is part of the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) focusing on mathematical studies in the General Curriculum Access Lab. Prior to this, Madison attended Suncoast High School in Riviera Beach, Florida, where she graduated with Math, Science, and Engineering (MSE) and International Baccalaureate (IB) diplomas. Following her undergraduate studies, Madison hopes to attend medical school.

Mathematical Problem Solving for Students with Disabilities

Abstract

This study focuses on the use of teacher-delivered Modified Schema-Based Instruction (MSBI), specifically in the subject of mathematics for students with intellectual disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorder. This study is a single-case multiple-probe across participants design. The goal of this research is to provide young individuals with disabilities a high-quality educational experience in mathematics in order to foster independence and enhance societal well-being. The study involves a refined structure of MSBI, moving away from the traditional one-on-one researcher-led format to a teacher-delivered model within a small group setting, promoting real-world applicability within standard classrooms. The research methodology incorporates assessments at various stages in order to make accommodations and modifications within the intervention, as necessary. The primary emphasis of the intervention is on multiplicative word problems, including equal group, multiplicative comparison, unit rate, ratio, and proportion problems. Through this research, we aim to contribute to a more inclusive and effective educational environment, broadening opportunities for diverse learners in the field of mathematics education.

Keywords: Mathematics, student, education, MSBI

BIO

Hello! My name is Diya Patel, I'm a sophmore here at FSU, originally from Orlando. I am a pre-medical student majoring in cell and molecular neuroscience. In the future, I plan to continue my involvement with undergraduate reserach and hope to attend medical school after graduation.

Spatial Navigation as an Overlooked Cognitive Marker for Multiple Sclerosis? - A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease affecting the central nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord (O’Brien, 2008). This condition can significantly impact vision, mobility, and balance. Spatial navigation, defined as the process of using landmarks and cues to determine a route to an objective destination, is proposed as an early cognitive indicator of MS in the literature (Nema, 2021). Understanding the interplay between MS pathology and spatial cognition is crucial for enhancing our comprehension of the diverse manifestations of MS and may have implications for the development of targeted interventions to improve the quality of life for individuals with MS.
Methods: This project aims to investigate the relationship between MS and spatial navigation skills by synthesizing findings from previous studies on MS and spatial navigation through a meta-analysis.
Results: Out of 4271 articles in title and abstract screening phase, 81 were identified for full text review. This is an ongoing study.

Keywords: Multiple Sclerosis, Spatial Navigation, Meta-Analysis

BIO

Alexyss is a hard-working, dedicated student who constantly strives for excellence. Alexyss' research interests are fairly broad with a specificity towards those pertaining to autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases, enjoying the challenge that comes with the impossibilities that surround the two.

Novel 3D Culture of Breast Cancer Cell Lines for Evaluating Drug Efficacy

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture has emerged as a promising method to produce cancer tissues in vitro that closely mimics the in vivo tumor microenvironment. These model 3D tissues have the potential to provide more reliable data for preclinical studies and can aid in bridging the gap between preclinical and clinical outcomes. In comparison to tumor tissues formed with traditional two-dimensional (2D) culture techniques, cancer cells grown in 3D typically have more physiologically relevant cell morphology, proliferation, longer cell life span, enhanced cell-to-cell interactions, enhanced drug metabolism, and more tumor-like characteristics. In this work, we explore differences in 2D and 3D cell cultures for a triple-negative epithelial breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB 231). We observe enhanced cell growth in a novel micro-fibrous scaffold culture over a longer time span compared to 2D cultures. Clinically approved anticancer compounds, including Lapatinib, Cisplatin, Docetaxel, and Doxorubicin were tested against both 2D and 3D cultures for 24 and 48 hours, after which cell viability was assessed with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. We observe that enhanced drug concentration leads to increased cell death in both 2D and 3D cultures, however 2D cultures are more sensitive to all compounds in part due to easier drug access compared to 3D culture where natural cell structure limits pharmacokinetic drug transport, thus attenuating apoptosis. Our results indicate that 3D culture of breast cancer cells with a micro-fibrous scaffold presents an effective platform for investigating cancer biology and drug screening.

Keywords: 3D cell cultures, breast cancer cells, cancer drug treatment testing

BIO

My name is Julian Kinnaird, I am from Melbourne, Florida, and I am in my final semester here at FSU. I am currently wrapping up my major in psychology and have already completed my minor in child development. Post-graduation, I hope to earn a full time clinical psychology research assistant position here at FSU to prepare me for my PhD training. Further in the future, I hope to earn my PhD in order to practice clinical work either in my own private practice or with a hospital, potentially focusing on children and their development.

Acceptability and Efficacy of a Brief Computerized Intervention Targeting Loneliness in Older Adults

Abstract

Estimates of loneliness in the U.S. among older adults have been as high as 34% since 2023. Heightened loneliness has been associated with several mental and physical adverse health outcomes, including increased risk of dementia, suicidal outcomes, poorer immune system functioning, and all-cause mortality. Computerized interventions have grown in popularity in recent decades due to their high scalability and ease of use. "Combatting Social Isolation" (CSI) is one such intervention which utilizes psychoeducation in order to "myth bust" common maladaptive beliefs that perpetuate perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness. The current study sought to test the acceptability of this intervention among older adults, as well as it's efficacy in reducing loneliness. This was tested through the use of a randomized control trial where participants (N=65, M(age)=72.2, SD(age)=5.8) were randomly assigned to one of two conditions, where the active condition received CSI, and the control group received the Health Educational Control (HEC) presentation. Participants in each condition completed self report questionnaires at pre-, post-, and 1-month post- intervention, and these included the UCLA Loneliness scale, the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire, the Client satisfaction Questionnaire, and the Credibility/ Expectancy Questionnaire. A significant majority of participants found CSI to be acceptable. A 2x3 ANOVA revealed a significant effect of time on Loneliness (F(1.460, 71.525) = 22.678, p<.001), though no significant interaction was observed between time and condition F(1.462, 71.525) = .102, p=.841. It appears that HEC may be just as useful in reducing loneliness as CSI, possibly due to its stress management components.

Keywords: Loneliness, Computerized Intervention, Older Adults

BIO

My name is Scott Conrad, I am an first-year student at Florida State University seeking a BS degree in Chemistry. My research project is in the field of photochemistry studying the photodimerization of Anthracene. I am very interested in chemistry, specifically organic, but enjoy all sciences as well as religious studies and philosophy. When I'm not in the lab or in class, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading novels, and exploring strange music genres. After university, I plan to go on to get my MD or PhD.

The Photodimerization of Anthracene-9-d₁

Abstract

The photodimerization of the aromatic hydrocarbon anthracene is one of the oldest known photochemical reactions, first noted by Frietzsche in 1867; the singlet excimer forms through two pathways, the singlet pathway, and the triplet pathway, achieved through direct irradiation and triplet sensitized irradiation respectively. The secondary deuterium kinetic isotope effect (KIE) is the effect of a deuterium substituted for a hydrogen adjacent to the bond breaking/forming carbon. In this project, we aim to study the photodimerization when deuterium substitutes hydrogen at the carbon-9 position in anthracene to reveal notable KIE or hyperfine interaction (hfi) effects, effects caused by interactions between the magnetic fields of an electron’s spin and the nucleus’ spin. There may be some hyperfine effect that reduces the rate of reaction of the deuterated Anthracene due to hydrogen’s much higher magnetic moment than that of deuterium. We began by preparing solutions of anthracene and d-anthracene at equivalent concentrations in d-dichloromethane and directly irradiated both in a merry-go-round apparatus with a 313nm filter solution. The samples were irradiated for 5-minute intervals before being scanned in a ¹H NMR at set time intervals to track concentration loss over time. The direct irradiation showed no signs of a hyperfine effect and the difference in rates of dimerization between the two was negligible, however the ratio of head-to-head and head-to-tail isomers in the deuterated product were notable, one isomer formed much more than the other as opposed to the 1:1 ratio that was expected.

Keywords: chemistry, photochemistry, organic chemistry

BIO

My name is Vijay Baksh and I am a first-year student at FSU pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Biology with a concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology and a minor in Forensic Science. Following my undergraduate curriculum, I plan to pursue a Masters of Science in Molecular Biotechnology where I would like to pursue a career in either Forensic Biology or Molecular Biology Research.

Role of the Gut Microbiome in Celiac Disease

Abstract

Celiac Disease incident rates have increased 7% every year over the past few decades. Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the mucosal lining of the small intestines. This reaction occurs following the consumption of gluten, over time, typically leading to malabsorption of nutrients and therefore malnutrition. Studies have shown that depletion of the mucosal barrier has a correlation with the Gut Microbiome; it plays a crucial part in maintaining homeostasis within the body due to its vast range of functions which include strengthening the gut mucosal barrier, protection from pathogenic bacteria, and synthesizing vitamins. Research has additionally shown that an imbalance in Gut Microbiota(bacteria) may lead to the development of diseases as well as the onset of symptoms surrounding autoimmune conditions, sparking an inquiry as to if and how the gut microbiome affects the onset of symptoms regarding Celiac Disease. The primary goal of this research is to develop a concrete foundation surrounding the Gut Microbiome and its correlations with Celiac Disease. An additional goal of this project is to strengthen biotechnical skills through DNA extraction, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis of previously collected fecal samples from collegiate students. Further implementations of this study would be to individually execute a similar project expanding the participant pool in a pilot study. The overall goal of future and current projects would be to identify correlations or dissimilarities within the gut microbial composition between collegiate students who do and do not have Celiac Disease.

Keywords: Celiac Disease, Gut Microbiome, Gastrointestinal Tract,

BIO

Pre-Med freshman majoring in Clinical Professions. Originally from Temple Terrace, Florida. Interested in any research involving human sciences, biology, and anatomy.

Use of Touch In Therapy

Abstract

Using touch in therapy is a nuanced and important topic that is especially relevant for experiential therapists. The present study aimed to explore the role and use of touch in Virginia Satir's Human Validation Process Model. Using qualitative data from expert interviews, the researchers offer best-practice considerations and examples of if and how touch can be incorporated into experiential therapy. 

Keywords: Human Development, Family Sciences, Human Sciences, Health

BIO

Hi, I am Cosette Bosshardt and I am a freshman at Florida State University studying Engineering. My goals for my education would be to expand my opportunities and to gain experience working on different projects with different types of people.

Influence of Crack Density on the Corrosion Resistance of UHPC

Abstract

Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) is different from traditional, normal strength concrete in that it provides higher durability and strength.. Although UHPC is typically more durable than normal strength concrete, structural components built in UHPC may be deteriorated during longer-term service, resulting in occurrence of cracks. Cracks could act as pathways for harmful compounds to penetrate UHPC and cause further damage for the embedded steel reinforcements.
Previous research has demonstrated that chloride is the leading compound that causes pitting corrosion for reinforcement concrete structures exposed to coastal and marine environment. However, past studies regarding the effect of crack density on corrosion rate of embedded steel rebar are still mixed. After initiation of corrosion by chloride, corrosion rate is not only related to the electrical resistivity between cracked regions, but also depends on the cathodic reaction during corrosion propagation, influenced by the oxygen supply.
Thus, non-destructive electrochemical methods including open circuit potential (OCP)test, linear polarization resistance (LRP) test, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) are adopted to measure the corrosion resistance of cracked UHPC and normal strength concrete with different crack densities.

Keywords: Corrosion, concrete, engineering