Research Symposium

BIO

Joseph Teller is a sophomore Finance major from Tampa. He chose his project due to having a Central American background, and this project was one he could relate to.

Identity Among Central Americans

Abstract

In Latin American studies, the majority of research focuses on larger populations such as Mexican Americans and Cuban Americans. Much less work focuses on Central America. Through qualitative interviews, this study investigates Central American identity in order to bring light to these often-ignored perspectives. Findings show how Central Americans communicate their identities to others in daily life as well as the identity challenges this population faces. This contains a broad number of findings as different people live different lives, but there are some valuable insights from these interviews. The way Latin American people interact with their identities is useful to understanding their experiences.

Keywords: Identity, Central America, Latin, Spanish, Immigration

BIO

I am currently in my third year studying Psychology with a minor in Child Development. I am from Crestview Florida and hope to get my master's degree in clinical psychology to become a therapist.

Influence of Familiarization With Immersive Virtual Reality on Prescence Over Time: A Pilot Study

Abstract

The effectiveness of Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) across various domains such as medical interventions (Carl et al., 2018), social psychology (Barreda-Angeles & Hartmann, 2022), and cognitive training (Cohavi & Levy-Tzedek, 2022; Wais et al., 2021) is well-documented. Presence, or the "sense of being there," is a crucial element in the effectiveness of IVR (Weech et al., 2019; Gibbs et al., 2022). While IVR has been suggested to be a successful tool across an array of domains, it may be that presence enables these outcomes. This study investigates how presence in IVR, and the degree of mood change are affected by repeated exposure.

Keywords: Immersive Virtual Reality and Presence

BIO

My name is Caroline Bennett and I am from Greenwich, Connecticut. I am currently pursuing a dual major in Cyber Criminology and Computer Science while on the pre-med track. I am passionate about technology, healthcare, and security, and my current research interests center on harnessing technology to revolutionize the health care world. Beyond my academic pursuits, I am thoroughly involved in the sorority Sigma Delta Tau as Philanthropy and Service Director and have grown to have a strong love for my Best Buddies family and the organization itself. Looking ahead, I envision a career at the intersection of medicine, technology, and security. My goal is to develop innovative solutions that safeguard sensitive healthcare data, contribute to a safer, more resilient healthcare system for all, and exercise my knowledge and skills to make a positive impact.

Evaluating Large Language Models for Accurate Lab Test Question Interpretation

Abstract

The LabGenie project aims to address the challenge of patients, especially the elderly, in understanding medical lab test results and acting upon them. Even though generative AI models such as ChatGPT can answer questions, patients may not know what questions to ask, and they may also generate answers with inaccurate information or hallucinations. In the eHealth Lab, we are developing informatics strategies to augment large language models (LLM) by 1) identifying credible health sources for lab test result interpretation, and 2) curating these sources to computable format. As such, they can be used for question prompt enrichment with human input and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG). The ultimate goal is to integrate the RAG-based LLMs with a user-friendly interface for patients. LabGenie seeks to allow patients with low health literacy to ask contextualized questions and make informed health decisions with their providers confidently. The research involves literature reviews on LLM capabilities in clinical settings, converting lab result interpretation into a table format, and evaluate strengths and weaknesses of different LLMs in answering lab result questions. These procedures aim to provide meaningful results to train LLMs and contribute to the creation of LabGenie.

Keywords: AI, Health Literacy, Lab Result Interpretation

BIO

My name is Luca Pazos, and I am a second-year student at Florida State University majoring in Political Science and Business Management.

I have spent this year conducting research under Ph.D. Candidate Qing Wang about the strategic use of censorship in China to control news of collective action events coming into the country. We have sought to build a framework that accurately predicts what Chinese State media sources will most accurately report a collective action event, and determine variables that trigger censorship in any given Chinese state media source.

In order to prepare myself for my future livelihood of law,I have sought on campus involvement in the form of clubs like Phi Alpha Delta in order to further my professional development. The Honors program has also been instrumental in affording me opportunities to reach outside of my comfort zone and help me develop myself with the help of fantastic teachers that I have kept in contact with long after I have finished their classes.

Selective Reporting in State Media of Authoritarian Regimes

Abstract

Historical waves of political upheaval, particularly in the last 40 years have demonstrated the power and pervasiveness of the media’s role in contributing to political mobilization. In response, autocratic governments have employed measures to deter citizens from emulating successful collective action abroad. China offers a pertinent case study for understanding restricted access to independent media because of the state apparatuses that exist to wield strategic control over the media by the government. Past research has indicated possible evidence of bias towards more positive reporting of nations with a strong economic relationship with China. However, there is still a significant gap in research regarding patterns of reporting in this massive media infrastructure. This project investigates patterns of reporting and censorship in Chinese state media with an emphasis on coverage of political unrest abroad. Herein we present research that compiles articles from several Chinese state media outlets on international events such as coups, protests, unrest, and civil conflict to cross-reference them with western outlets reporting on the same events in the same time frame in order to observe trends, differences, and discrepancies between them. The methods used consist of linguistic statistical analysis and qualitative analysis. The current results indicate that among many other interesting developments, Chinese state outlets are much less likely to report on political upheaval, and when they do, they are far more likely to attribute them to outside intervention (especially if they suspect US involvement), and they often report on these events in a negative light.

Keywords: censorship, China, foreign news, authoritarian,

BIO

When I graduated from Nease High School with my AA and first came to Florida State University in 2022, I wanted to be a veterinarian, but I quickly realized it wasn't for me. I love animals and knew I wanted to work with them, but I was at a loss for what that meant. In the fall of 2023, I finally found my spark in Dr. DuVal's ornithology course and decided to gear my career goals toward wildlife conservation and behavioral research. Despite previously having little knowledge about birds and struggling to keep up initially, I became fascinated. I picked it up quickly, additionally motivated by Dr. DuVal’s kind nature and enthusiasm to involve her students and share her knowledge with our class. Later, I eagerly applied to be a DIS student in the DuVal Lab. This semester, I have been conducting video analyses of Lance-tailed Manakins with Dr. Rivers, who welcomed me into her research as my mentor and has encouraged thoughtful discussions on current studies, which have been a great learning experience for us both. My studies primarily involve avian chemical cues and behaviors, and I look forward to continuing my journey in biological research.

Overmarking in a neotropical passerine bird: the Lance-tailed Manakin

Abstract

Chemical cues play an important role in many animal behaviors. Overmarking, in particular, is the behavior of one individual leaving a scent mark to cover the scent of another, which can be exhibited in various ways and for a variety of potential purposes. There have been many studies of overmarking in mammals, however, very little is known about avian involvement in overmarking. To address this issue, we investigated the chemical signaling behavior of the Lance-tailed Manakin (Chiroxiphia lanceolata), a lekking passerine species located in the neotropics. Pairs of male Lance-tailed Manakins perform cooperative courtship displays on a display perch, which they work together to maintain. We hypothesized that part of this maintenance might include overmarking the scents of other individuals that may visit the perch, due to previous research in this system finding that the males responded to chemical changes on the perch. To determine if overmarking is involved, we analyzed videos of Lance-tailed Manakins at the display perch and recorded their behaviors when the chemical environment on the perch was altered using an ethanol treatment. For each bout of maintenance, we broke down the different types of behaviors involving bill touches on the perch and recorded the frequency of bill touches for each individual. This data provides valuable insight into what factors relate to the maintenance behaviors of males, such as age, social status, and quantity of males in the area, and opens new potential avenues for further research on avian response to chemical cues in this ongoing study.

Keywords: olfaction, avian, overmarking, chemical cues

BIO

Katherine is a senior Psychology major who is interested in the impacts of current socio-cultural conditions on mental health and psychology. Her other research interests include the understanding and reproduction of cultural knowledge and social scripts, multidisciplinary therapeutic approaches, and trauma's physical and mental manifestations. She is originally from Somers, New York, and plans on attending North Carolina State University for her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Katherine aims to become a licensed mental health counselor, with a focus on LGTBQIA+ advocacy and intersectional frameworks. Eventually, she would like to work in mental health policy and advocacy for a non-profit or other local organization.

Examining the Associations Between Political Ideology, Cognitive Biases, and Gun Behaviors

Abstract

In the contemporary American political landscape, an escalating party divide is reshaping political ideologies and policies, with gun control being a particularly contentious issue. The oversimplified view of this division fails to capture the intricate interplay between political ideology, gun-related attitudes control, and underlying cognitive biases. The current study examines individual differences in beliefs including beliefs in a dangerous world (BDW), suspicion, and resentment as well as gun-related attitudes across the spectrum of political ideology. The study further examines how these factors predict gun behaviors in a simulated environment, assessing average latency to touch, point, and shoot. This study utilized a sample of 110 adult participants with self-report and behavioral data. Findings indicate significant differences across the political spectrum, with more conservative individuals endorsing significantly more favorable gun attitudes and attitudes in favor of gun accessibility. Additionally, gun attitudes were significantly less favorable in individuals higher in resentment and suspicion. BDW was associated with pointing and shooting the gun sooner, while suspicion was associated with waiting longer to touch the gun. Additionally, more favorable gun attitudes were associated with touching and firing the gun sooner. Results from moderation analyses suggest that suspicion has an effect on individuals with less favorable gun attitudes, such that increasing suspicion leads to shooting sooner. While this study must be considered in light of its limitations, these findings have implications for public safety and emphasize the need for further exploration into the intricate dynamics between beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors within political ideology.

Keywords: Political Ideology, Threat Perception, Belief in a Dangerous World, Gun Behaviors

BIO

I am currently a sophomore Ponte Vedra Beach. I am conducting research in education. I am planning on attending Physician's Assistant school after undergraduate school, and I plan on being a Pediatric PA.

Caring for Students as Thinkers: A Case Study

Abstract

The field of science teacher education research has a burgeoning imperative to understand and support more equitable science teaching such that all students not only learn science but do science in ways that are authentic to the discipline and support students to feel a sense of belonging in science classrooms (National Research Council, 2012). In this work, we seek to add to this literature by sharing an in-depth exploration of the interactional dynamics in the classroom of a public high school science teacher, Danny, during an AP Chemistry lesson on periodic trends in which his students are enthusiastically engaged in the doing of science to figure out how and why these trends exist. In an effort to explore how Danny supported and sustained his students’ outwardly emotional engagement in figuring out the phenomena, we became attuned to the ways in which Danny responded to his students with genuine care for their deep thinking. Here, we share pieces of this ongoing analysis to illustrate how we see evidence of this care in Danny’s responses to students and discuss potential implications for practice and future research.

Keywords: caring, belonging. science, classroom

BIO

Finance Student at FSU
Upcoming BNY Mellon Intern
UROP Student
Hometown : Chelmsford, England
Research Interests : Business, Economics, Genomics

Mathematical Problem Solving for Students with Disabilities

Abstract

This research aims to explore an improved solution for students with intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorder by examining the effectiveness of Modified Schema-Based Instruction (MSBI), specifically in the subject of Mathematics. The goal of this research is the pursuit of a world where every young individual receives a high-quality education, fostering independence and enhancing societal well-being. In addition to its societal impact, the research envisions improved economic outcomes, leading to increased productivity and more streamlined resource allocation in the long run. The approach 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 increased student interaction and real-world applicability within standard classrooms. The research methodology incorporates a thorough assessment at various stages, utilizing correlative analysis and effectiveness ratings to adjust the intervention as necessary. The primary emphasis of the intervention is on multiplicative word problems, presented both in traditional paper-based formats and video-based scenarios, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of mathematical proficiency. Through this research, our aim is to contribute to a more inclusive and effective educational environment, broadening opportunities for diverse learners in the field of mathematics education.

Keywords: Mathematics, Education , Disabilities

BIO

Hello, my name is Brianna Long. I am a 3rd-year transfer student majoring in Exercise Physiology. I am originally from Chicago Illinois but grew up in Orlando, FL where I earned my associate degree in biology from Valencia College and was on the President’s List for the summer 2021 term. Through my studies, I hope to have a career in neuroscience and become a pediatric neurosurgeon.
While attending school at Florida State University I enjoy being a part of the Alliance for Black Women student organization and assisting with the Market Wednesday Committee. Outside of school, I enjoy working as a part-time real estate assistant and various customer service jobs including Dog sitting and walking.

Bridging the Gap into Geosciences for Underrepresented Pre-College Students: A perspective of How Hurricanes and Storm Surge Impact Coastal Areas

Abstract

Varying changes to environmental factors are known to occur when seasons change, however, in recent years these changes can be seen more frequently and are more drastic which as a result has caused researchers to begin researching these changes and how they affect humans. These researchers are known as geoscientists who study Earth in a variety of different aspects such as its organization, structure, and physical properties and try to tie their results together to understand the Earth in both the past and present day. However, there have been notable gaps in the overall understanding of information in the geoscience field which can be accredited to the lack of diversity and race representation within the geoscience field. Prior research has shown that this can be ascribed to 2 main problem areas: lack of awareness within the general public, and more importantly veterans within the geoscience field are lacking to stimulate interest in the Geosciences among newer generations. This study aims to Bridge the Gap in the Geosciences for underrepresented pre-college students by creating a geoscience-themed summer camp program that is concentrated on the environmental challenges that exist and affect sea levels, coastal management, groundwater, and the karst aquifer and how these changes affect humans neurologically. This study can be proven prosperous in the efforts of diversifying the geoscience field as well as bringing awareness to important effects that the environment has on the human mind neurologically due to the hands-on nature of the activities within the program.

Keywords: Geoscience, Coastal Management, Hurricanes

BIO

Born in Haiti, raised in South Florida, Thamengie Richard is a 4th year undergraduate student majoring in psychology with a minor in innovation and data analytics. Broadly, her research centers on the intersection of work and relationships. Thamengie's research interests include diversity, equity, and inclusion, relationships, social group dynamics, and work-family. Most adults spend the majority of their waking hours at work and Thamengie's passion is to make that a more equitable and enjoyable experience for all people. After graduating this spring, Thamengie will begin an Industrial - Organizational Psychology Ph.D. program at the University of Georgia. Outside of academia, Thamengie enjoys dancing, pottery, learning the piano, and watching romantic comedies.

An Analysis of the Mentor Selection Process as Impacted by Stereotypes and Social Group Identification

Abstract

Social Identity Theory predicts that people form group memberships based on characteristics such as race, ethnicity, or gender. This theory is particularly important in environments where people spend alot of time and where it is necessary for them to interact, such as in the workplace. However, past research has found that racial and gender minorities may subvert expectations by preferring to interact with members of the out-group while at work. Investigating this phenomenon is especially important with mentor-mentee relationships because they are prevalent in workplace settings and play a role in organizational success.

This current work aims to examine how social group identity strength, meaning how strongly one identifies with certain characteristics, impacts mentor selection in a professional environment. 150 undergraduate participants completed a study online where they answered questions about their demographics, how strongly they feel that their race/ethnicity/gender is tied to their identity, and what characteristics they find important when choosing a mentor. We hypothesize that participants with weak social group identities will be less likely to think that identity is important when choosing a mentor. Similarly, we hypothesize that participants with strong social group identities will be more likely to think that identity is important when choosing a mentor. After data collection, all our hypotheses were supported as we found significant correlations between social group identity and mentor selection. The results from this study will contribute to the literature on diversity in the workplace and can be used by organizations to combat the glass and concrete ceiling.

Keywords: Work, relationships, mentor, social group identity, diversity

BIO

My name is Paige Webb, I am a first year biology major at Florida State University, and I am from Hudson, Florida. My research focuses on enhanced self-determination training for transition aged adults with disabilities.

Enhanced Self-Determination Training for Transition-Aged Adults with Disabilities​

Abstract

Research has found that post secondary-school outcomes in areas of education, employment, and independent living are affected by self determination levels of young adults with disabilities. Given the importance self determination has on people's lives, it should be a priority in the classroom. The three objectives of this project are to examine self-determination instruction on transition-aged adults with disabilities, examine the teachers thoughts and experiences on the self-determination instruction, their knowledge of self determination, and perceptions towards C3 for Me’s significance of self-determination skills learned. This project contains enhanced self-determination instruction using “Who’s Future is it Anyway?” curriculum and C3 for Me cue cards and extension activities. The study consisted of 10 participants and one teacher. The teacher participated in a two-hour professional development session to introduce the curriculum/activities of the curriculum. The participants take the AIR self determination scale as their pre-test. The study then lasts 4 weeks with 2-3 lessons a week, each lasting around 30 minutes to an hour. In the last week of the study, the participants take the AIR self determination scale as their post-test and their scores are compared to the pre-test scores. We found a significant increase in self determination from the pre- to the post-test in the young adults who were given the transition curriculum. This means that the curriculum provided will lead to higher levels of self-determination and overall success in postsecondary school lives in all areas.

Keywords: Self-determination, disabilities, training

BIO

My name is Nicole Fowler and I am a sophomore at Florida State University. I am pursing a career in medicine and research. I am so thankful for the opportunity to be a part of Undergraduate Research Program this year and hope to continue participating in research in the future.

Impacts of Micro-aggressions and Implicit Bias on the Mental Health of First-Generation Minority College Students

Abstract

The first-generation college student population, defined as students whose parents did not complete a 4-year college degree, is rapidly growing. These students are more likely to identify with a racial or ethnic minority group and are more commonly raised in families of low socioeconomic status (SES). These students also often face discriminatory behaviors such as microaggressions and implicit biases, which only burden them further, leading to diminished mental health. Implicit bias, a stereotypical perception that one may not be consciously aware of against someone or something, is a stressor that marginalized groups face more often than others. Studies have shown that implicit bias as well as microaggression, the intended or unintended derogatory behaviors that target marginalized groups, is associated with increased stress, depression, and negative academic performance.

Possible ways to mitigate the effects of these discriminatory behaviors include mindfulness, focusing on one’s awareness and being present, and social support. These concepts have been associated with creating more positive attitudes and decreasing implicit bias and have been correlated with a positive increase in mental health among minority students. There are limited studies that evaluate the correlation between mindfulness and the negative mental effects of implicit bias and microaggression among the target population. The purpose of this project is to examine how implicit bias affects the mental health of marginalized groups such as first-generation college students and determine how mindfulness and social support can be used to reduce the negative impact of implicit bias on mental health.

Keywords: Microaggression, implicit bias, first-generation college students

BIO

Senior majoring in Biology at Florida State University, originally from Jupiter, Florida. Future goals are to move on to medical school in hopes of becoming an interventional radiologist. Current Teaching Assistant For Organic Chemistry Lab and past Learning Assistant for Organic Chemistry 1. Research Interests include studying changes in Arteries, veins and structure of lymphatic vessels.

Long-term Effects of Simulated Spaceflight on Lymphatic Biology

Abstract

When astronauts travel to space, they are exposed to the spaceflight environment, which includes weightlessness (e.g. microgravity) and space radiation exposure. Various physiological adaptations occur with astronauts when exposed to the space environment, though our understanding of how the lymphatics adapt to the spaceflight environment is minimal. The lymphatics are involved with cardiovascular health, fluid regulation, and the immune system response to varying conditions. Our project included the study of lymphatics utilizing rodent models being exposed to simulated conditions of spaceflight, including microgravity and/or deep space radiation exposure, and the long-term effects of being exposed to these stressors. Our preliminary findings suggest unique long-term adaptations of lymphatics to simulated spaceflight. The results from this study increase our overall knowledge of lymphatic biology in the context of the field of space medicine as well as improve life on Earth by expanding our understanding of the lymphatic system and how biology responds to radiation exposure.

Keywords: Lymphatics, Space, Radiation, Microgravity

BIO

Hi! My name is Céline Yacoub, I am a freshman studying Cell/Molecular Neuroscience and I work in the Crofts lab studying antibiotic resistance. I live in Miami, but I am originally from Lebanon. I hope to one day become a doctor and work with non-profit organizations such as Doctors Without Borders to help people in need who have limited medical access.

Identifying Clindamycin resistance

Abstract

Over the past few decades, there has been a rapid increase in antibiotic resistance found in bacteria, which causes individuals to need stronger, more toxic antibiotics making diseases harder to treat. This study investigates clindamycin, an antibiotic from the lincomycin family used to treat various types of infections. Due to its gram-positive characteristic, clindamycin does not affect E.coli proliferation, but when given the efflux pump inhibitor PAβN, its growth stops. Through the use of a functional metagenomic selection and sequencing resistant colonies, mystery genes which give resistance to the bacteria can be identified. Through the amplification of these mystery genes using PCR, and cloning them into plasmids, E.coli clindamycin resistance can be measured. We have now concluded that Paβn works as an efflux pump inhibitor, allowing E.coli to be susceptible to clindamycin.​ We are currently trouble shooting the previous targets, as well as continuing resistance testing on the four targets we found to shown clindamycin resistance.​

Keywords: antibiotic resistance, microbiology, clindamycin,

BIO

Hello! My name is Ainsley Amendola and I am currently a first-year student from Tampa, FL, pursuing a degree in Human Resource Management and Master's in Business Administration. Along with being an Honors student here at FSU, I am also a member of the Presidential Scholars class of 2027. Although when applying to UROP I did not have any specific research interests, I knew I wanted to pursue a project that was centered on directly making an impact on an issue that might commonly be overlooked. This project stood out to me as a unique opportunity to help foster a more inclusive environment for students with disabilities.

Novice Teacher’s Use of a High Leverage Teaching Practice During Mathematics Instruction

Abstract

This research study investigates the benefits of high-leverage teaching practices for novice teachers who work with students with disabilities. This research specifically focuses on increasing the use of high-leverage teaching practices during mathematics instruction. The primary objective is to monitor the teacher’s execution throughout the implementation of the selected teaching practices and identify key data regarding each instructional session. This study utilizes a single case research design, with participating teachers recording videos during the mathematics instruction period. To guarantee mastery while applying these practices, participating teachers will be subjected to asynchronous training. Daily feedback will be provided after assessing footage from each session, to improve the successfulness of these practices. After the collection of videos, through the process of blind coding, changes can be identified from the extracted data. The study aims to understand the efficiency of integrating consistent high-leverage teaching practices in an environment where students with disabilities commonly face learning challenges. The findings deducted from this study will be of great relevance for the professional advancement of novice teachers, cultivating an inclusive environment pertaining to the success of both students and teachers alike.

Keywords: Novice teachers, students, disabilities

BIO

My name is Nikitha! I am a current freshman at Florida State University, and I have lived in Tampa Fl all my life. I am currently on a pre-medical track on the path to become a physician. I specifically want to work with underserved communities where they have a lack of access to healthcare and work more with communities to gain this access. Some of my hobbies include reading books, writing short stories and taking part in community outreach programs that includes tutoring and helping specifically in underprivileged areas.

Teaching Elementary School Students About Preventing Food Waste Through Composting

Abstract

Climate change has been a prevalent and growing issue as the world progresses to future industrialization.

The purpose is to demonstrate and teach about composting to elementary school kids as this will allow them to understand the food, they waste in their cafeteria better and link this waste to methane produced from landfills. Therefore, they can better understand the importance of preventing food waste. In the end, students are becoming more aware about where their food comes from and where they dispose of the food they do not eat and its impact on climate change. They also learn about alternate ways they can dispose of the food they eat in their cafeteria’s.

Keywords: teaching food waste through composting

BIO

I'm Vanessa Blemur, a second-year student from West Palm Beach, FL, majoring in Political Science with a minor in Communications. My sights are set on attending law school in Fall 2025, following the pre-law track.

On campus, I hold the role of co-community service chair of Black Female Future Attorneys, I’m a part of the new membership committee of Phi Alpha Delta, and I’m currently pledging an esteemed business fraternity. Prior to UROP, I’ve been able to hone my research skills as the legislative communications intern for Human Rights First.

I'm excited to share my journey and insights at this undergraduate research symposium.

Assessing the Influence if Labor Provisions on Informal Economy Dynamics: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

What are the downstream effects of globalization? One of the most visible aspects of globalization can be seen in the stark increase in free trade agreements since the mid-1990s. Traditional economic theory argues that trade results in both winners and losers within countries. However, trade's effect on informal work (unregistered and untaxed legal activities deliberately concealed from public authorities) is less clear. We argue that trade agreements with explicit labor provisions (LPs) help reduce the informal economy's size compared to agreements without LPs. An extensive informal economy contributes to heightened poverty, and inequality, and hinders development by limiting access to formal employment opportunities and economic stability. Specifically, trade agreements with labor provisions address the exclusion channel for informal work by protecting individuals from exploitation, discrimination, inadequate wages, and unsafe working conditions.

Keywords: Economy, globalization, trade

BIO

Turner is a Junior at Florida State University majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience with minors in Chemistry and Psychology. She is originally from Tennessee, but moved to Florida at the age of 16. She is currently on the Pre-Physician Assistant track and hopes to complete PA school at Florida State as well. Turner has worked on this research project for almost a year now and has loved learning more about Parkinson's Disease and contributing to treatment.

Cueing and Gait Improvement Among People With Parkinson’s Disease - A Meta Analysis

Abstract

Background: Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by a loss of movement and coordination due to an impairment of the dopaminergic nerve cells in the substantia nigra of the basal ganglia, causing a failure to produce dopamine. Though there is no current cure for Parkinson’s Disease, treatments using cueing to improve gait are being studied for possible improvement of symptoms. Gait is defined as a patient’s walking patterns. Cueing is the use of a stimulus to regulate a patient’s movement.

Methods: The aim of this project is to conduct a meta-analysis using available evidence to examine the effects of auditory, visual, and combined auditory and visual treatments on the gait of Parkinson’s patients. Specifically, this meta-analysis defines gait as patterns of cadence, stride length, and velocity. A literature search was conducted using Embase, Web of Science, Medline, CINAHL, and PubMed. Studies consisted of the application of a visual, auditory, or audiovisual intervention treatment on patients with Parkinson’s disease, measuring changes in cadence, velocity and stride length.

Results: The present dataset comprises 28 effect sizes from 12 studies, involving a total of 236 participants with Parkinson’s Disease. The overall findings indicate a statistically significant difference (p = 0.05) across various aspects. As indicated by Hedge’s G, cadence (0.26), velocity (0.26), and stride length (0.43), a small to medium effect size is observed.

Keywords: Neuroscience, Parkinsons, Gait, Cueing

BIO

My name is Fernando De Abreu Pires, I'm currently a sophomore studying Finance and Management Information Systems interested in pursuing a carer in finance. Last summer I completed an externship with PwC in Consulting, and for this summer I'll be working at BNY Mellon in Investment Management.

The Effects of Artificial Intelligence on Conspicuous Consumerism

Abstract

This study examines how artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the retail industry and how this will affect consumer behavior in different age groups. In the project it is explored how AI affects choices and preferences in retail settings, with a focus on conspicuous consumerism. Within the research we hope to identify complex relationships between intergenerational consumer sentiments and AI integration by taking a generational perspective. The research can provide merchants and marketers with important insights that will shape strategies that appeal to different generations. By developing targeted and effective marketing strategies that are in line with the varied tastes of various generations in the retail sector, this study aims to improve our understanding of AI's role in creating customer experiences.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Consumerism, Marketing

BIO

My name is Matthew Turner, and I am from Safety Harbor, Florida. I am a freshman finance major and a Presidential Scholar here at Florida State University who is involved with the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), as well as Beta Theta Pi Fraternity and Relay for Life.

Money in Tallahassee: The Transactions of Territorial Florida

Abstract

A defining event in the history of Florida was the establishment of a capital in Tallahassee in 1824. This research tracks a timeline of currency in circulation during Tallahassee’s territorial economy from 1824-1845 in order to learn more about how financial transactions were completed during this era. Mediums of exchange range from leftover Spanish gold and silver to bills of exchange, barter, documentation of transactions, and even playing cards up until Florida began establishing banks and printing banknotes. The research will help historians and reenactors alike as Tallahassee celebrates its bicentennial.

Keywords: Territorial Tallahassee, currency