Research Symposium

BIO

Amanda Anderson is a third-year Studio Art major in the Art Education BA/MS program. Her hobbies consist of drawing, animating, designing, listening to podcasts on true crime and paranormal activity, and reading. She has a heavy interest in research that began at Miami Dade Community College where she participated in Mellon Foundation's Humanities Edge Undergraduate Research Program for three semesters, publishing two research projects during her stay. During the transition to Florida State University from Miami Dade College, Amanda has continued her interest in research by entering their Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program and gained new and formative experiences over the two semesters she has participated in this program.

During the undergraduate and graduate years she has remaining, Amanda plans to continue pursuing research and expanding her knowledge on different topics while finishing her degree and continuing to develop her portfolio for animation. Anderson's career goals are to be a high school art instructor while staying active in the animation industry as a character designer and animator. Being able to teach adolescence how incorporating art and technology into their personal research, be it for interdisciplinary research studies or personal work, offers endless possibilities is a goal of hers.

Consumers’ Influences on Smart Fitness Apparel

Abstract

Wearable technology has increased in popularity in recent years, putting well-being and sustainable lifestyles at the forefront for its consumers. Smart apparel should be created with consumers' thoughts but at the forefront.

This project aims to calculate the wearable acceptability of smart apparel and the factors that influence a consumer’s purchase intentions and attitudes toward wearable technology. We focus on social acceptability (design, aesthetic, self-expression, consequences, and other reflections), the Theory of Reasoned Action(TRA), well-being concerns, environmental concerns, and the consumer's attitude. Through our research, we hope to survey a group of college and staff through Qualtrics in order to identify a new or updated WEAR (Wearable Acceptability) Scale by the end of February.

Keywords: smart apparel, sustainability, design, well-being, consumer attitude

BIO

Hi everyone! I'm Shabely and I am a transfer student from Miami, FL! Some of my research interests include social neuroscience and cultural sociology! In the near future, I hope to be a PhD student doing research in the field to help us better understand how our interactions with others shape us! While I am very passionate about psychology, I also believe it's important to recognize the influences of the people and social world around us. Outside of academics, I enjoy reading books, playing music, listening to podcasts and spending time with my family!

En Busca de Communidad: Finding "Home" in Scholarly Fields

Abstract

Over the past few decades, the pool of faculty and staff members working in higher education has diversified. With this increase in diversity in scholarly institutions comes amplified voices for underrepresented communities. However, with the stressors found in these institutions, it is difficult for marginalized peoples to find community in these often rigid spaces — particularly for Latina scholars. In recent years, Latina women working in academic spaces have had to forge their own place within fields established by predominant narratives. This is not only true for academics, but also for those who work in proximity or within museums. Centered in ethnographic research and secondary literary analysis, this study focuses on Latina women’s experiences in scholarly institutions. Fostering a sense of community and expanding upon knowledge is essential for Latinas to have their place in these fields. By building community amongst Latina scholars, young Latinas are shown that they belong in these spaces, and that representation goes a long way.

Keywords: community, latina, scholar, placemaking, belonging

BIO

Hello! I am Yvette Obediente and I am currently a freshman studying biological sciences here at Florida State University. I am hoping to pursue a career in medicine, specifically in something that has to do with surgery! My hometown is Tampa, Florida and I am very excited to be presenting here at the annual UROP Symposium to showcase my team and I's research.

Intersectionality Between Workplace Accommodations and Aging

Abstract

This scoping review is investigating the intersectionality between aging workers and workplace accommodations. This review specifically focused on exploring articles written over the past 33 years on four databases. These databases include: Ageline, Scopus, Science Direct, and Social Science Premium collection. The scoping review was conducted on the platform Zotero for easy article access and organization. All duplicated articles were first removed then the articles went through a multiple step screening process; the initial screening included an examination of the title and abstract. Decisions whether or not that article will be included were then made between multiple researchers with specific criteria. Articles were chosen based on the age range, which was individuals older than 50, and whether they specifically related to the research questions. Following the initial review, a secondary examination was conducted and decisions regarding inclusion and exclusion criteria were decided based on the articles entirety. This study is investigating what types of accommodations are being requested as well as different interventions being implemented.

Keywords: Aging, Workplace, Disability, Accommodations

BIO

I am Aashir Kamal, a second-year pre-medical student majoring in Biology at FSU in Jacksonville, Florida. My ambition is to attend medical school and pursue a career as a physician, aiming to contribute meaningfully to the field of healthcare.

Promoting Belongingness: An Inclusive Approach for Students with Disabilities

Abstract

The sense of belonging is crucial to individuals as it creates emotional support, security and validation. For students with disabilities, a lack of sense of belongingness can make students feel isolated or excluded. This study investigates the factors which affect the sense of belongingness which affect students with disabilities. ​

In order to identify these gaps, students first compiled a conceptual list of factors that could affect sense of belongingness among students with disabilities.​

Next, Studies related to the sense of belongingness among this population are identified and analyzed. After the completion of this process, existing research is comparted to the conceptual list of factors​

By identifying the certain factors which are considered to affect belongingness, further research questions will be formulated as a means to study this topic more.

Keywords: Disability, Belongingness, Students

BIO

I am a passionate and driven individual currently pursuing my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering at Florida State University. Alongside my academic pursuits, I thrive outside the lab as an avid runner, where the values of discipline and perseverance intersect with my academic journey.

Excitingly, I'm preparing to take the next step in my education at Florida State University for graduate school, specializing in engineering. My keen interest lies in organic synthesis and cell culture, particularly in their application to pharmaceutical drug development. I aspire to contribute to the field by leveraging my expertise in organic synthesis to innovate and advance medicinal chemistry. Through this journey, I aim to merge my academic ambitions with my passion for innovation, striving to make a meaningful impact in the realm of research.

A Dextran Based Hydrogel System for Studying Fibrotic Extracellular Matrix Cues

Abstract

Fibrosis is a complex process that is dependent on the location
of excess growth. Currently, there are no effective treatments for treating the formation of excess fibrotic tissue
except for a complete organ replacement. To better understand the development and treatment of fibrotic tissue, it is
crucial to first understand the triggers of fibrotic tissue remodeling and how it is initiated within the body. As part of
this project, fibrotic cellular signaling was studied through the implementation of a tunable
hydrogel. First, the synthesis and characterization of Dextran-Vinyl Sulfone polymer provided the basis for a
tunable hydrogel system with controllable peptide presentation. After the synthesis of Dextran-Vinyl Sulfone, it was
crosslinked to create hydrogels and modified with different extracellular matrix derived adhesive peptides. 3T3
fibroblasts were seeded on these gels to assess the activation of a mechanosensitive transcription factor that plays an
important role in fibrosis (YAP). Quantification of YAP nuclear localization showed increased activation on
fibronectin derived peptides compared to laminin derived peptides. This is consistent with fibronectins known role
in fibrosis of several tissues. This also indicates that presentation of laminin peptides or inhibition of fibronectin
interactions could be an effective strategy for reducing fibrotic signaling and the destructive tissue remodeling that it
induces. Additionally, a fluorescence resonance energy transfer tension sensor (FRET-TS) will be used to analyze
force on the central adapter protein in focal adhesions (Talin), an essential linkage for cell adhesion formation that
provides force dependent adhesion reinforcement and acts as a mechanosensitive signaling hub.

Keywords: Fibrotic, Hydrogel, YAP, Vinyl Sulfone, Dextran

BIO

My name is Jackzyri Torres, I am a freshman here at Florida State University. I am from Miami, Florida, but I am 100% Nicaraguense. With my education from Florida State, I aim to receive a masters in Social Work and eventually become a licensed clinical social worker. Aside from this project, I am interested in researching Hispanic populations, along with those who have been incarcerated.

Spatial Navigation Skills in Alzheimer's Disease- A Meta- Analysis

Abstract

Background: Dementia greatly impacts various individuals. A common form of dementia is Alzheimer's Disease (AD). One of the earliest symptoms noted in AD is spatial disorientation. Spatial disorientation occurs when an individual cannot determine their accurate body position, altitude, and motion in relation to their surroundings. In a prior meta-analysis that examined spatial navigation skills in individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), it was observed that they diverged from cognitively healthy older adults by a standardized mean difference of 0.9. MCI represents a state between cognitively healthy aging and dementia.

Methods: In this meta-analysis, the objective is to evaluate the degree to which individuals with AD exhibit cognitive underperformance compared to cognitively healthy older individuals in spatial navigation tasks. Hedge’s g, a standardized mean difference, serves as the measure of effect size in this assessment. Notably, characteristics of articles such as title, year of publication, country of study, and authors are considered along with demographic variables (education, age, and gender), way of test administration (real-world, virtual reality), AD criteria, and type of measure (time/accuracy)..

Results: The present dataset comprises 48 effect sizes from 21 studies, involving a total of 483 participants (212 AD, 271 healthy older adults). The overall findings indicate a statistically significant difference (p = 0.05) in navigation skills, with healthy older adults exhibiting significantly better performance compared to individuals with AD, as evidenced by the standardized mean difference (SMD) of 1.3.

Keywords: Alzheimer's, Spatial navigation, Meta Analysis

BIO

Vinaya Mapitiyage, a second-year student at Florida State University, originally from Sri Lanka and raised in Daytona Beach, Florida, is deeply passionate about the human brain. As a Cell and Molecular Neuroscience major, Vinaya is driven by her ambition to attend medical school and one day specialize in combat medicine. Her desire to serve and heal in challenging environments motivates her academic pursuits and research interests. Vinaya's curiosity currently extends to the topic of sense and perception, particularly olfaction; hence why she joined the Dewan Lab in Spring of 2023 and has been grateful for the mentorship and knowledge she has gained since joining.
Outside of academia, Vinaya enjoys exploring nature, and engaging in stimulating conversations. With a genuine love for the complexities of neuroscience, Vinaya is excited to explore the field of neuroscience.

Measuring the Relationship Between Liquid and Vapor Phase Concentrations for Esters Diluted in Mineral Oil Using a Photoionization Detection-Based Approach

Abstract

Esters, such as ethyl tiglate and methyl butyrate, are colorless liquids known for their sweet, fruit-like aroma, frequently employed as olfactory stimuli in investigations of odor perception and neural coding. Manipulating vapor-phase concentrations often involves utilizing liquid dilutions, yet the relationship between liquid dilution and vapor concentration varies depending on the specific odor/solvent combination and can diverge significantly from predictions based on ideal gas laws. Consequently, predicting the relationship between liquid dilution and vapor-phase concentration necessitates empirical determination. The goal of my study was to meticulously assess the relationship between liquid and vapor-phase concentrations of various esters, including ethyl butyrate, ethyl tiglate, sec-butyl acetate, tert-butyl acetate, and methyl-2-furoate, employing a photoionization detector (PID)-based approach. To achieve this, I utilized a meticulously designed olfactometer capable of delivering volatiles from diverse liquid dilutions (ranging from 0.01% in mineral oil to pure odorant) to the PID. Within the PID sensor, volatile molecules underwent ionization upon exposure to intense ultraviolet light, generating a current proportional to the vapor phase concentration of the odorant. This process allowed me to acquire comprehensive data, which were subsequently analyzed and fit with a power function to derive liquid-/vapor-phase equilibrium equations. These equations provide crucial tools for olfactory researchers seeking more accurate representations of vapor-phase odorant concentrations utilized in their experiments. My study hopes to offer valuable insights into the intricate relationship between liquid and vapor-phase concentrations of ester acetates, contributing to the refinement of olfactory research methodologies and enhancing our understanding of odor perception.

Keywords: olfaction, PID, esters, ester acetates, odorants

BIO

I am a sophomore on the pre-med track dedicated to further enhancing my knowledge in the molecular sciences using research as a tool. I am interested in learning more about the complex mechanism of genetics and its impact on organisms. The advancement in science and close guidance from experts within the field of genetics have fueled my ambition to explore this discipline. I hope to be able to contribute to the life’s work of physicians with prolific experience in genetic and cellular functions. In addition, I strive to master my literacy in medicine to detect gaps and provide solutions. I want to encourage curiosity by extending resources and opportunities to low-income communities to not only improve lives but also enhance the academic experience.

Bioinformatic Approach to Nominating Candidate Genes for Uncloned Maize Mutants

Abstract

My project was to select three maize mutants and develop candidate gene lists by inspecting all the gene models in the region where the mutant maps. This involves systematic inspections of genes and their encoded gene products and known or presumed functions. I will pick three mutants for this project and report on what I found. For example, if I chose a seed-starch deficient mutant (e.g. a mutant called sugary45), and it was genetically linked to chromosome 3, I would look at all the known nearby genes using online maize genome websites, MaizeGDB and genomaize.org. For each gene on chromosome 3 near my mutant, I will ask “if this gene was mutated (broken or disrupted), could it result in starchless seed phenotype?” If it could, that gene gets nominated as a “candidate” gene, which could be tested later using molecular biology.

Keywords: Bioinformatic, Genes, Mutants, Maize

BIO

My name is Mia De Sabatino and I am from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Currently, I am a junior at Florida State University studying chemistry and have been active in my research lab for a year. Research has always been a focus because there is no better way to utilize what you have learned in real-life applications. It is a great way to evolve your understanding and develop new skills that can help prepare for graduate school. After graduating from Florida State University, I hope to attend graduate school and continue to pursue research in electrochemistry. It has become an exciting interest as I continue to further understand my role in this field.

Investigating the Effect of Toyocamycin on A549 Cells

Abstract

Adenocarcinoma is a common cancer of the lung, and the discovery of new anticancer drugs effective against lung cancer will open up new therapeutic opportunities such as combination therapy. Toyocamycin is an antibiotic that has shown effect on cancer cells such as multiple myeloma and pancreatic cancer cells. By using scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM), Toyocamycin is found effective against adenocarcinoma cells such as A549. The drug induced membrane blebbing, cell shrinkage, and apoptotic volume decrease. This technique is suitable in continuous mapping of the topography of single cells before and after treatment with anticancer drugs, as a result of its label free and non-invasive nature. Toyocamycin is effective against A549 cells, and other biochemical assays could be used to further confirm the effect of the drug.

Keywords: cell morphology, drug studies, electrochemistry

BIO

My name is Kelsie Fernandez, and I am from Tampa, FL. I am a second-year student majoring in Humanities and English with a minor in Communication. My research interests focus on gender inequality, blending my studies in English and Humanities. I plan to attend law school after graduating.

Artful Networks: Angelica Kauffman and Isabella Teotochi Albrizzi's Salons

Abstract

Angelica Kauffman (1741-1807) and Isabella Teotochi Albrizzi (1763-1836) are both exemplary Italian salonnières of the long 18th century. The former was a celebrated artist of Swiss origins, while the latter, of Greek origins, made herself known also through her writings: both, however, elected Italian cities as their hometowns, Rome and Venice respectively. The salon is an environment that cultivates the production and exchange of intellectual conversations and correspondence – at its core, the salon is an exchange of ideas led primarily by women. By opening their homes to a chosen public of artists, intellectuals, politicians, important foreign guests, and illustrious people, Kauffman and Albrizzi were able to cultivate fame within their own sphere of influence. I place some of these women’s canonical works in conversation with one another in order to understand how their personal success hinges on how they exercise power within their field – through art, writing, and their social network capital. Both of these women mobilized their social networks and interpersonal relationships to their advantage to defy the restrictions imposed on them because of their sex. Through analysis and comparison of the careers of these notable 18th-century Italian salonnières, it is clear that the strength of the social and cultural networks they established enhanced their societal mobility. This enabled them to garner celebrity and recognition, which ultimately contributed to the construction of their identity.

Keywords: Italian, Literature, Art, Women, Social Networks

BIO

My name is Ria Shah and I am from Orlando, FL. As a current third-year student at Florida State University, I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Child Development and Criminology. My passion lies in unraveling the intricacies of human behavior and exploring the mind-body connection. My long-term goal is to earn a PhD following my undergraduate studies, with a specific focus on children and adolescents. Engaging in the Social Cognition Lab, I immerse myself in research that mirrors my commitment to challenging biases, prejudices, and stereotypes. Beyond the realms of psychology, I serve as the Director of Intellectual Development for the 1910 Honorary and hold memberships in both the Garnet and Gold Key Leadership Honorary and the Psi Chi Honor Society at FSU.

Examining Stereotypical Influence on Perceptions of Other's Behaviors

Abstract

This project aims to investigate the impact of individuals' occupations on the formation of Spontaneous Trait Inferences (STIs) and how stereotypes associated with these occupations influence impression formation. STIs are spontaneous and effortless impressions people form about others based on observed behaviors. The study is motivated by the recognition that people often make stereotypes about occupations, which may influence how they interpret observed behaviors and form STIs. For example, some may associate janitors with being unclean or unsanitary due to the nature of their job. We examine, for example, whether that stereotype interferes with people’s tendency to STIs form a janitor’s sanitary behavior. To test STIs from simple behaviors, we create a novel stimulus set including a diverse range of behaviors representative of various occupations. Participants will rate the prevalence of stereotypes associated with a set of occupations and determine whether the behaviors imply stereotypical or non-stereotypical traits. This methodology allows us to examine how individuals attribute traits to others based on both occupational stereotypes and observed behaviors in real-world contexts. By employing this approach, we aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms of impression formation and explore the relative influence of occupational stereotypes and behaviors on individuals' STIs. Ultimately, this research contributes to advancing our knowledge of person perception and social cognition by elucidating the cognitive processes involved in impression formation within naturalistic settings.

Keywords: Spontaneous Trait Inferences

BIO

I am here at Florida State studying psychology with hopes to learn more about research and gain more experience in the field. My interests are in developmental psychology, specifically children, however I thought taking part in a study for older adults would still be just as interesting.

Technology and the Cognitive Health of Older Adults- A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background: Population aging and age-related cognitive declines present unprecedented challenges for the United States and the world. Social, cognitive, and activity engagement has the potential to protect against cognitive declines in middle-aged and older adults. Information communication technologies (ICT) can provide opportunities for all those engagements. Numerous cross-sectional and longitudinal studies suggest that ICT use in late adulthood is associated with cognitive benefits, while experimental studies providing ICTs and ICT trainings to older non-users showed mixed results. The current study aims to: (1) quantify the associations between ICT use and baseline cognition in cross-sectional and longitudinal studies, (2) quantify the protective effects of ICT use on cognitive changes in longitudinal studies, and (3) examine whether introducing ICTs to older non-users has cognitive benefits.
Methods: The present meta-analysis explores the relationship between ICTs, and the cognitive abilities of healthy middle-aged and older adults. An algorithm featuring key terms was utilized to recruit relevant studies through scientific databases. We examined applicable studies for quantitative associations of ICT utilization and present cognitive abilities in relevant populations. As well as potential defensive impacts , and quantitative impacts on cognitive abilities with introduction to ICTs when lacking utilization.

Results: Current data is in the process of extraction across multiple studies, relevant to the dynamic between ICTs and cognition in older populations.
Conclusion: Given the present meta-analysis, it is evident that the relationship between cognition and ICTs involves multiple functions of technology. These functions have the potential to be narrowed down in future research.

Keywords: computer, technology, cognitive function, older adult

BIO

Greetings! I'm Sabrina Roman, a senior pursuing a major in Biomathematics at Florida State University. My fervent passion lies at the intersection of mathematics and medicine, where I aim to make a tangible impact on our world. Currently, my research focuses on exploring the arithmetic capabilities of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and meta-cognitive impairment. Beyond academia, I cherish moments spent with loved ones and have an affinity for discovering quaint coffee shops around town. Looking ahead, I envision a career in healthcare where I can merge my interests in mathematics and medicine, continuing to drive innovative research in both fields.

Arithmetic Skills in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease - Literature Review

Abstract

Deficiencies in general arithmetic abilities are noted as an initial indicator of Alzheimer's disease (AD), although research findings vary regarding the specific affected abilities. Moreover, a comprehensive literature review documenting the progression of arithmetic skill changes from Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer's disease is lacking. The objective of this study is to systematically review existing literature on the performance of individuals with MCI and AD in arithmetic skills, aiming to consolidate current knowledge and suggest potential avenues for future research. PRISMA guidelines were followed for the systematic literature search using Covidence software. Included literature focused on arithmetic skills in MCI and/or AD patients, while excluding articles on financial capabilities, comprehension of medical information, non-English papers, and case studies with minimal participants. Thirty-six articles discussing arithmetic skills in MCI and/or AD patients were identified through the search. Analysis revealed that within the MCI group, patients exhibited greater accuracy in addition compared to other operations. Regarding reaction time, MCI patients were slower than healthy controls (HC) only in division. No significant difference in accuracy in addition and multiplication was observed between AD patients and HC, while AD patients demonstrated lower accuracy in subtraction and division.

Keywords: Alzheimers, meta-analysis, literature review

BIO

President of RENEW Organization, Member of NUSA Organization, Research student under Dr. Sara Hart’s Cognitive Psychology Lab. Research interests include learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, STEM learning, and special education.

Parental Perceptions of Self-Determination, Reading Enjoyment, and Home Literacy Environment in Children with Learning Disabilities and Low Reading Performance

Abstract

Current work suggests that self-determination, reading enjoyment, parent reading assistance, and grammar help may affect children’s reading abilities. Self-determination is strongly correlated with academic and reading performance (Zheng et al., 2014). Additionally, higher levels of reading motivation are strongly associated with better academic performance, and reading enjoyment is strongly correlated with higher levels of reading proficiency (Morgan et al., 2007). Children with learning disabilities tend to have lower levels of reading enjoyment and motivation, which could contribute to lower reading ability (Melekoglu, 2011). Children’s reading ability is also impacted by their home literacy environment (i.e., the amount of time parents spend reading with their children and helping with grammar). In this study, we conducted a one-way ANOVA to explore the differences in parents’ perceptions of their child’s self-determination, reading enjoyment, and the home literacy environment between parents of children with learning disabilities (n = 75), children who are low readers without learning disabilities (n = 53), and typical readers (n = 926). Our sample was drawn from the Florida Twin Project (FTP; Taylor et al., 2019), a large-scale twin study on reading. We found that all variables, except for self-determination (m = 3.2, SD = .79), were not statistically significantly different between the groups. Currently, there is a gap in the literature on how parents’ perceptions of their child’s behaviors related to reading differ between different types of readers, and we are building on the current work through our study by looking at these measures.

Keywords: Reading, Parental, Learning Disabilities, Performance, Home Literacy Environment

BIO

Alex Davidoff is a BFA Studio Art major with a minor in Museum and Cultural Studies. They are interested in the way that color impacts the experience of art, and the immersive experience of installation. Alex enjoys rock climbing, nature walks, and thought-provoking art.

Curation and Installation Exploration

Abstract

The heart of an artist’s professional practice is the studio process. In the proposal, we explore a variety of textures including sculpture, painting, printmaking, and new media with an emphasis on the impact of our lives using color. The acts of planning, experimentation, and creation aid the progression of professional practices. Without a studio practice, artists are unable to thrive professionally. For installation art, the galleries are an extension of the studio, where we see the practices and processes come to life. We used a model of a curational proposal to visualize how different local artists in the Tallahassee area would engage in a gallery setting. This study explores the effects of bright colors as a unifying element of an exhibition to display a diverse range of artists.

Keywords: Installation, Art, Curation

BIO

I am from Jacksonville, Florida, and currently majoring in Biochemistry. I am interested in tissue engineering, astrochemistry, and astronomy. My current research project focuses on the chemical composition and crystallization patterns of salts and is funded by NASA. Hoping to get my master's in Astrochemistry.

Chemical Composition from Photos: Dried Solution Drops Reveal a Morphogenetic Tree

Abstract

This project aims to answer the question, can the chemical composition of salts be predicted from macroscopic crystallization patterns? Using super salt-saturated solutions, crystals from 42 different salts were deposited onto glass slides. After drying, individual crystal patterns were captured and analyzed using MATLAB coding. Parameters such as perimeter, area, shape, size, and other features were extracted to facilitate differentiation between the salts. While this approach proved effective in distinguishing among the 42 salts, further exploration into similar salt structures is necessary for enhanced differentiation in the future.

Keywords: Salts, Patterns, Crystallization, Chemical Composition, Photos,

BIO

My name is Joshua Penumudi and I am a second-year Exercise Physiology major. I am from Gainesville, Florida. Some of my research interests are psychology, sports medicine, and nutrition. I hope to pursue a career in the healthcare field in the future.

Nurturing Therapeutic Connections Among Trainee Counselors: Exploring the Influence of Mindfulness

Abstract

Research indicates that the therapeutic alliance is a significant factor in maintaining optimal treatment and therapeutic outcomes, even though the specific traits associated with this are still being studied. This research aims to analyze the effects of using mindfulness techniques in counselors-in-training and how they influence the therapeutic alliance. Our comprehensive literature review on preceding research about mindfulness and the therapeutic alliance investigate the impacts that mindfulness can have on real relationship, working alliance, and countertransference. In ancient eastern culture, specifically within Buddhism, Mindfulness was a common activity that was practiced. Despite its ancient origins, the use of mindfulness in clinical practices in the western world is very new. Research shows that further study of mindfulness and its modalities is appropriate in order to better understand the therapist-client relationship as well as other influences. The literature indicates that the traits that come about as an effect of mindfulness techniques such as awareness and emotional intelligence can have a positive impact on the development and cultivation of the therapeutic alliance.

Keywords: Mindfulness, Psychology, Therapeutic Alliance

BIO

Vivian was born in Santiago, Dominican Republic, and came to the US when she was five years old. She is the oldest of three. From a very young age, she demonstrated a great devotion to the sciences, which led her to choose a career in biomedical engineering. She is a very curious person with a great passion for learning new things. When not in the lab, Vivian can be found reading, playing dominoes, or tormenting her younger sister, but all in love. Nonetheless, she is an inspiration for her younger sister, who has chosen to follow in Vivian's footsteps and pursue a degree in engineering. Vivian has spent the last two years at the High-Performance Materials Institute, focusing on characterizing composite materials.

Mechanical Characterization of Hand-Layup Carbon Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composites for Automotive Applications

Abstract

As the automotive industry persistently strives to improve performance and efficiency, the demand for lightweight advanced composite materials that can endure the rigors of life continues to grow. Carbon fiber composites stand out as a promising solution due to their exceptional lightweight and mechanical properties. This project delves into the mechanical characterization of different carbon fiber composites to evaluate their suitability for automotive applications, aiming to provide valuable insights into their performance by analyzing various mechanical properties, such as flexural strength, shear strength, and elastic modulus. Our research will focus on manufacturing these composites utilizing hand-layup methods, then examining by C-scan analysis to assess the quality of the resultant composites, followed by conducting Three-Point Bend and Short Beam Shear tests in accordance with ASTM standards.

Keywords: Carbon Fiber Composites, Material Characterization, Flexural strength, Shear strength

BIO

Hi! My name is Taylor Montchal and I am from Seminole, Florida. I am a 2nd year student here at FSU studying Psychology, and I hope to go on to medical school after undergrad!

Developing a Museum Exhibit: The Spanish Missions of Florida

Abstract

The sidewalks thousands of our feet walk across and the many different classroom buildings connected by them are now built upon land that used to tell a very different story. Where students now come to learn, was once a vast land full of Native American tribes that stretched throughout the country where the Spanish came to learn about the "New World". With obvious special interest towards Florida, research on the Spanish missions was initiated with the purpose of answering this question: what story can be formed about the Spanish missions? In the Anthropology Department here on campus, there are exhibits depicting various topics in the field of anthropology. My duties were to gather research on the Spanish missions in Florida in order to create an exhibit that encompasses what is known about this part of history.
Through tactics such as reviewing papers, looking at Florida State's collection of archives, and visiting Tallahassee's local museums I was able to paint a picture of the Spanish interactions with the Natives. What I found includes both the blending of cultures—and the strong rejection of the European ways of life on the deeply embedded roots of the Natives living here.

Keywords: Spanish Missions of Florida

BIO

Hello everyone, I am Robert Gibson, an Undergraduate student at Florida State majoring in Psychology. I am from Tampa, Florida, and am hoping to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology in the future.

Exploring Parental Perceptions: An Analysis of Self-Determination, Reading Enjoyment, and Home Literacy Environment in Children with Varying Reading Types

Abstract

Current work suggests that self-determination, reading enjoyment, parent reading assistance, and grammar help may affect children’s reading abilities. Self-determination is strongly correlated with academic and reading performance (Zheng et al., 2014). Additionally, higher levels of reading motivation are strongly associated with better academic performance, and reading enjoyment is strongly correlated with higher levels of reading proficiency (Morgan et al., 2007). Children with learning disabilities tend to have lower levels of reading enjoyment and motivation, which could contribute to lower reading ability (Melekoglu, 2011). Children’s reading ability is also impacted by their home literacy environment (i.e., the amount of time parents spend reading with their children and helping with grammar).

Keywords: Learning Disabilities, Reading, Achievement, Reading Motivation, Home Literacy Environment