Research Symposium

BIO

I am a senior Managament Information Systems major at Florida State University. My experiences and skill sets in MIS have led me to my position as Data Analytics Manager at the DeVoe L. Moore Center. As leader of the Data Analytics Group, I manage a team of interns that specialize in acquiring and cleaning data for our K-12 Education database on https://www.floridaopengov.org. This database is then utilized by our team to conduct quantitive research into Florida’s K-12 Education system.

Light Touch Density’s Effect on Tampa Bay, Florida

Abstract

As South Florida faces rapid population growth, housing shortages have intensified, leading to a near doubling of housing prices over the last 20 years. This crisis demonstrates the need for innovative strategies to enhance housing supply without significantly altering neighborhood character. Light touch density (LTD), which promotes modest density increases through accessory dwelling units and infill conversions, emerges as a promising solution. The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) suggests LTD can boost housing supply by 20-50% in South Florida over 10 years, highlighting its potential to mitigate affordability issues.
This study explores "How can light touch density affect rent prices in South Florida’s most populous counties?" Data compiled from U.S. Census Bureau and Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) spanning 2003-2022 on housing units, rent prices, demographics, and economic indicators is used for Python-based linear regressions to determine the impact additional housing units have on rent, compared to historical trends.
Preliminary results indicate a significant reduction in rent prices in Tampa Bay's Hillsborough County over a decade, with a 20% supply increase leading to roughly a $80-200 monthly, or $1,000-$2,400 yearly, rent decrease. Consequently, South Florida's urban counties are advised to adopt LTD policies, fostering housing density increases through streamlined accessory dwelling units and infill conversions processes.
This analysis demonstrates LTD's potential as a pivotal tool for improving housing affordability, offering a strategic framework for policymakers amidst Florida's housing crises. Further research across Florida into LTD's impact on housing prices is recommended for a holistic understanding of its benefits.

Keywords: Affordable Housing, Tampa

BIO

As an aspiring engineer with roots in Colombia, my academic and professional journey is actively driven by a passion for space exploration and development. Having moved to the U.S. at the age of 15, I found my calling in space medicine during my high school years in South Florida. Currently, as a biomedical engineering student at Florida State University, I am engaged in pivotal bioastronautics research. This work dovetails with my role as a leader in Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS) at FAMU-FSU, reflecting my ongoing commitment to advancing the field. Together, we leverage the principles of space exploration to foster unity across diverse academic disciplines, shaping our collective human experience through strategic space projects and research endeavors.

The Long-Term Effects of Simulated Space Radiation on the Internal Jugular Vein Biochemistry

Abstract

When astronauts travel into space, they experience a unique environment, which includes weightlessness (e.g. microgravity) and radiation exposure that leads to diverse physiological adaptations. These adaptations affect the cardiovascular system, including the internal jugular vein (IJV), a major conduit for cerebral venous outflow, and which is also involved with maintaining and regulating brain blood supply. Recent observations from spaceflight missions suggest the IJV is susceptible to spaceflight-induced adaptations. To investigate the mechanisms and specific effects of microgravity and/or radiation on the IJV, we conducted a study examining the long-term effects of single and combined simulated deep-space radiation and microgravity exposure on rats. Our study aimed to assess changes in IJV structure and function, as well as biochemical pathway alterations that may be caused potentially caused by simulated spaceflight exposure. IJV samples were collected and processed for immunofluorescence protein analysis using cryostat sectioning. The findings from this study will contribute to our overall understanding of cardiovascular adaptations associated with spaceflight that are occurring with our astronauts.

Keywords: space medicine, health, cardiovascular, vein, bioastronautics

BIO

I’m currently a sophomore at Florida State University pursuing a major in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience as well as a minor in chemistry. I am committed to lifelong learning and collaboration and dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the ever-evolving landscape of medicine.

Working Memory VS Spatial Navigation Performance

Abstract

Spatial navigation (SN) is a fundamental cognitive skill crucial for daily activities, such as driving, shopping, and even navigating familiar environments (Garden et al., 2002). Working memory (WM), the cognitive system responsible for temporarily storing and manipulating information, has been identified as a crucial component influencing SN performance (Solari and Hangya, 2018; Garden et al., 2002). WM itself is susceptible to age-related decline (Oberauer, 2005; Rhodes et al., 2022). Thus, understanding the relationship between WM and SN, particularly in the context of aging, holds substantial importance. This study aims to investigate the association between WM and SN performance, with a specific focus on age-related differences. Participants will be recruited through the Florida State University Psychology Department and Institute for Successful Longevity. The study will utilize standardized tests to assess both WM and SN abilities. WM will be evaluated using tasks requiring the retention and manipulation of information over short periods, while SN will be assessed through tasks involving spatial orientation and route finding in simulated environments, including the North-South-East- West (NSEW) assessment and a Left/Right simulation. Participant recruitment is underway, and data collection has not commenced. The outcomes of this research will shed light on WM and SN across various age groups, providing insights into cognitive aging processes. These findings may offer insights into predicting Alzheimer's disease onset, aiding in early intervention strategies.

Keywords: Navigation, Memory, Alzheimers

BIO

Hello! I am a freshman at Florida State University from Nashville, TN. I am currently majoring in Criminology, and I plan to dual degree in Psychology. I am a Presidential Scholar, a member of the FSU Marching Chiefs, and a member of Lambda Alpha Epsilon. My career goals are still unknown, but I love learning in my Criminology and Psychology classes! Although this research project wasn't directly related to my field, I have enjoyed every step of this process, and I have enjoyed getting to know my research mentor, Dr. Houck, more. I plan to use my UROP experience to further develop my research skills in the future, hopefully through a Directed Independent Study!

Writing His Life: The Life and Death of John Brown in Letters

Abstract

This review analyzes the life and death of John Brown through letters – letters which were written while Brown was on death row in 1859. John Brown received the death penalty in October of 1859 and was sentenced to be hanged on December 2, 1859, for his role in the Raid on Harper’s Ferry. During his short time in jail, he wrote many letters to friends and family members detailing his jail experience and instilling a sense of hope into his recipients. Since then, most of the letters have been lost to history; however, after countless hours of researching and reading, this review has compiled a collection transcribing the only letters that have survived history. Additionally, after collecting these letters, we have turned to rhetorically analyzing them. The analysis includes detailing how these letters contributed to the United States Civil War, the role of religion in the 1800s, and the importance of preserving history. These letters are incredibly important to history, and yet, there is seemingly little to no research on them. That is why this project was created: to accumulate and analyze these letters that are such an integral part of the history of the U.S.

Keywords: John Brown, abolitionist, history

BIO

Delaney is a 2nd-year junior from Sarasota, Florida with aspirations to attend law school and go into lobbying work. She loves reading about and researching the stories not commonly taught in History classes and could talk for hours about her favorite historical figure: Carrie Chapman Catt.
Delaney is involved in numerous organizations around campus, including Student Government, Pi Beta Phi Sorority, ForwardFSU, 1910 Women’s Leadership Honorary, Garnet and Gold Key Leadership Honorary, and Honors Legal Scholars. A fun fact about her is that she is named after a Jimmy Buffett song!

Ungentlemanly Warfare: Women Spies of the Special Operations Executive During WWII

Abstract

During World War II (WWII), the world of espionage called for many noble individuals, men and women alike, to step forward on behalf of their country. Ungentlemanly Warfare: Women Spies of the Special Operations Executive During WWII explores the pivotal role played by women in the Special Operations Executive (SOE) during World War II, shedding light on their contributions as spies and wireless operators. These women demonstrated exceptional courage and resourcefulness, undertaking covert missions in occupied territories to gather crucial intelligence, sabotage Axis operations, and aid resistance movements. These women demonstrated incredible devotion as they continuously faced the threat of capture, torture, rape, and execution. Through a series of literary analyses, depositions, and previously classified SOE documents, this research aims to uncover the truth behind the women operatives’ stories, examine the societal attitudes toward their work, and their impact on the Allies’ success in Europe. This research will elevate the often-overlooked history of these women and their invaluable role in World War II.

Keywords: History, WWII, Gender, Women

BIO

Zhan Peebles is a second-year student at Florida State University majoring in management information systems and minoring in business analytics. She is from Tampa, FL and one of her favorite things to do in her free time is to go to the beach to watch the sunsets! She is on track to graduate with a Master’s Degree in business analytics in her fourth year at Florida State. In addition to UROP, she is a member of Beta Alpha Psi as well as PR chair of Association for Information Systems at FSU.

What is a “Low-Performing” School? The Implications of Federal Policy Changes and State Implementation Decisions on the Equity of School Accountability Designations

Abstract

For more than two decades, federal school accountability policy has required that states identify their lowest performing schools and intervene. Historically, the low-performing designation was based on school assessment scores, which are widely understood to be inadequate measures of school quality. Instead, they capture differences in opportunity to learn outside of the classroom and are therefore highly correlated with race and economically disadvantaged students.

The most recent iteration of this policy, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), took a more nuanced view of schools, and aimed to designate schools based on a more holistic range of measures, including proficiency, but also student growth and other nonacademic outcomes. In this project, researchers are compiling a dataset of all school designations from 2003 to present to examine the equity of the low-performing designation over time and federal policy. Preliminary findings show that low-performing schools disproportionately serve Black, Hispanic, and underprivileged students. Consequently, these observations are raising questions about the extent to which the low-performing designation is accurately capturing school effectiveness, or simply the demographics of the student body. Under ESSA, these disparities have continued, highlighting that while the new policy is a step forward in terms of equity, more serious changes are needed to our nation's approach to school accountability policy.

Keywords: education, school, no child left behind, federal policy, federal funding, education policy, every student succeeds act

BIO

Catarina Cereja is a second-year student pursuing a dual degree in International Affairs and Political Science at Florida State University. Raised in São Paulo, Brazil, and New York City, USA she now studies in Tallahassee where she hopes to graduate and pursue a career as a foreign service officer. Her interests primarily focus on international relations, the concept of global citizenship, and intercultural interactions. She is currently involved in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, the Global Scholars Program, and the Honors Program at FSU.

Buying and Selling Foreign Aid: Donor Motivations and Public Perceptions of Foreign Aid

Abstract

How does an aid-for-policy deal with one donor nation impact another donor nation’s ability to make an aid-for-policy deal with the same recipient state? Previous research has analyzed the behavior and decision-making of recipient states when aid is being provided by a single donor nation. However, this approach fails to account for all the other countries that are simultaneously giving aid to the recipient country.  This paper argues that the behavior of recipient nations is influenced by 1) how much aid a recipient country receives from donor nations and 2) how many donor nations give the recipient country foreign aid. Through the analysis of foreign aid as a network, this research tests if a nation’s position in the foreign aid network affects the amount of foreign aid that is required to buy a state’s vote on the UN Security Council while said state serves as a non-permanent member.   

Keywords: International Affairs, Political Science, United Nations, Foreign Aid

BIO

Lynn Pierre Etienne is a third year junior majoring in computer engineering originally from Haiti. She has a deep passion for numbers, programming, robotics and the joy of teaching them to kids. Her fascination with robotics began in high school, where she actively participated in the robotics team and competed at VEX Robotics Competition. This experience ignited her dual interest in both coding devices and constructing hardware. As she looks toward the future, a significant part of her dream involves giving back to her home country, Haiti, where access to advanced technology is severely limited. By introducing and implementing cutting-edge technologies there, she aims to contribute to its development and advancement. Her career is not just a personal quest for knowledge and success but also a pathway to support her family and make a meaningful impact in Haiti, bridging the gap where technology is lacking. Alongside her studies, you will find her on campus as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., FAMU-FSU Society of Women Engineers, FAMU-FSU National Society of Black Engineers and serving as the Volunteer Chair for Perfect Pair at FSU and as the Student Affairs Philanthropy Ambassador.

Object Recognition for Improved User Intent Inference for Robotic Lower-Limb Assistive Devices

Abstract

To assist the user in achieving their daily objectives, the robotic lower-limb assistive device must be able to determine what action they are attempting to perform. We hypothesize that visual information about the user's environment will be useful in this task. For example, an individual wearing a lower body assistive exoskeleton will be safer if it only predicts a 'sit' action when the user approaches a chair, thus enabling knee joints to bend precisely at the proper moment. To anticipate such an action, we are using a combination of computer vision and human motion capture.
Preliminary data was collected using an Intel RealSense Depth Camera and a Xsens Motion Capture Suit as individuals were engaging in their regular daily tasks. Furthermore, analyzing the collected data was done by using a combination of Python and YOLO to detect objects and sort them in a structured list containing the location of each object in the environment. In addition,
we are using other developed algorithms, and a technological mapping method (SLAM - simultaneous localization and mapping) to allow the device to build a map and localize itself on that map at the same time. The future of this project aims to implement these technologies and probabilistic inference tools in order to understand how these detected objects and their localization help us predict the user's intent.

Keywords: robotics, computer vision, python, YOLO, user inference, assistive devices, openCV

BIO

My name is Anne, but you can call me Annie! My academic and research interests involve the psychology of criminal behavior and deviance. I plan on pursuing a PhD in Criminology and want to do research with my career, whether it be through a university or a government organization. I am from Saint Augustine, Florida, and outside of my academic and career interests, I love going to the beach, reading, and hanging out with the animals on my farm!

Incels and Firearms

Abstract

This study addresses violent tendencies against women among heterosexual male involuntary celibates, also known as ‘incels.’ The aim of this study is to determine the extent to which incels use online platforms and discourse communities to voice their opinions as well as the degree to which other members of the community agree or disagree with each other. The research employed online text analysis methods to pull discourse from online platforms including Reddit, YouTube, Twitch, and Telegram. The researchers conducted an analysis of the pulled comments and posts to search for common key words and opinions. While analysis of raw data is still ongoing, current findings suggest that incels prefer to discuss their ideologies on more private platforms and tend to use code words for violent ideals on more public platforms.

Keywords: incel, Reddit, violence, masculinity

Keywords: Social science, incel, Reddit, violence, masculinity, sociology

BIO

Devon George is a second-year student studying Political Science and International Relations at FSU, hailing from the Tampa Bay area. Her research interests focus on the success of different strategies that dissuade human rights abuses and the effect of human rights abuse allegations on public opinion. Currently, she is involved in Women in Pre-Law Society (WIPS), the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) and will be working on her Master's in Applied American Politics and Public Policy beginning Fall 2024. After completing her degrees, she hopes to go to law school to further her interests in human rights and international law.

How Political Elites Deny Accusations of Human Rights Abuses

Abstract

Human rights advocates generally rely on the “naming and shaming,” or public criticism of human rights practices, the effectiveness of which is debated, under-researched, and the validity often denied by governments. This study seeks to collect data on exactly when and how political elites deny accusations of human rights abuses, aiming to discover a relationship between methods of denial employed and their effect on public opinion of the accused government. Denials were first hand-coded with articles by the Associated Press and the New York Times, then analyzed to reveal that denial varies in the target of denial and the type of rhetoric used. Second, a survey experiment fielded in the Philippines assessed how denials affect public opinion, the findings of which countered the hypothesis that public attitudes were significantly impacted by denial. One possible explanation could be that the influence that the U.S. has over its weaker allies was underestimated, in this case Philippines-U.S. ties are stronger than previously thought. This research seeks a more complete understanding of how political elites interact with human rights advocacy, gauging how effective “naming and shaming” is in deterring further violations and improving human rights practices.

Keywords: political science, human rights, international relations, human rights abuses, public opinion

BIO

Hello, my name is Arden Leedy and I am a sophomore at Florida State University from Gainesville, FL studying Biological Sciences. I hope to attend a pharmacy school after graduation to earn my Doctor of Pharmacy, and in the future, work in a hospital pharmacy setting. I currently work as a University Ambassador in the Visitor’s Center, where I lead prospective students and parents on campus tours. I have excellent time management, organizational, and public speaking skills. From the UROP program, I hope to dip my toes into the world of professional research and engage in a topic I am interested in. While my project does not specifically relate to the world of pharmacy, it has allowed me to conduct research on, and work with an animal that I have a deep compassion for, while still conducting research that is relevant to my major. The program will also help me to continue towards my career aspirations. After the UROP program has concluded, I hope to be able to continue working in research on this campus to further my research skills.

Loggerhead Sea Turtle Behavioral Response to Visual and Auditory Stimuli from Vessels

Abstract

Interactions between marine species and vessels can result in changes in energy expenditure, shifts in foraging activity, displacement, injuries, and even mortality. Marine turtles often use shallow coastal waters, characterized by high concentrations of boat traffic. To date, studies have focused on the potential population level effects of vessel related mortality on marine turtles. However, limited studies have focused on how vessels affect fine-scale behaviors of marine turtles. To fill this gap, we examined the behaviors of Caretta caretta (loggerhead sea turtle) in Crystal River, Florida from footage obtained from 30 Paralenz cameras deployed on the carapace of turtles for 3.5 hours. In total, there were interactions with vessels among 8 out of the 30 individuals with cameras. We extracted data on breathing and swimming patterns five minutes before and after the recorded interactions with vessels. A two-tailed paired t-test revealed no statistically significant differences in behavior (number of breaths or proportion of time in different behaviors) before and after interactions with vessels. With this, it can be said that the vessel interactions did not affect the fine scale behavior of the turtles. While in this study we did not find that vessel interactions affect marine turtle behavior, it is vital that society acknowledges the importance of their actions’ effects on this species. Future work should employ similar methods of identifying behaviors with more complex bio-loggers to understand fine scale behavior.

Keywords: marine turtles, vessel strike, auditory stimuli, visual stimuli, conservation

BIO

My name is Ellen Gomez and I am currently a sophomore at Florida State University. I am originally from New Jersey until I moved to Tallahassee for college. Here at FSU, I participate in many other organizations besides UROP like the FSU Honors program, Gamma Phi Beta sorority, and FSU intramural sports. Furthermore, in research, I am currently interested in working on projects that have to do with the human body and understanding how the body works better. Research in this field will be beneficial for my future career because one day I want to become a physical therapist.

Altered Pain Threshold in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain

Abstract

Pain is a ubiquitous sensation experienced by a majority of individuals during their lifetimes. Pain can lead to discomfort in various areas of the body, such as the back. In fact, low back pain is one of the most prevalent types of pain. Resultantly, this study aims to investigate pain by using Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) to determine differences between low back pain participants and healthy participants. To conduct this study, participants with low back pain and those without low back pain were recruited to have QST performed on their body. Researchers measured the subject's cold pain threshold (CPT), heat pain threshold (HTP), and pressure pain threshold (PTT). Each participant was initially tested on their forearm to familiarize them with the distinct sensations invoked by the QST measurements and tools. Then, each participant was tested on the most painful area of their back. The CPT, HPT, and PPT tests were performed three times each. After data collection, the SPSS software was used to analyze the data. The results of this study illustrated that individuals with low back pain demonstrated a higher pain severity and pain sensitivity. Also, the lower back pain group had a higher cold pain threshold (CPT)(p<0.001) while on the other hand had a lower pressure pain threshold (PPT)(p<0.001). This is significant because this data can connect and fill the knowledge for other researchers studying low back pain. Furthermore, such results could lead to determining the cause of low back pain and implementing future healthcare treatments.

Keywords: Pain Threshold, Low Back Pain, Quantitative Sensory Testing

BIO

Hi, my name is Caroline Glock. I am a biological science major on a pre-med track. I am a second year student at Florida State University. I have a passion for medicine, biology, and chemistry. I am part of FSU Medical Response Unit and a proud UROP leader. I love learning and being introduced to new knowledge. I am a very dedicated and compassionate person, who hopes to become a physician.

Exploring Preservice STEM Teachers' Vulnerability

Abstract

Teaching is a relational act, and authentic relationships (rooted in honesty, vulnerability, trust) are important in K-12 classrooms (Noddings, 1988; Suárez & Krist, 2023); however, building such relationships is not straightforward for preservice science teachers (PSTs). Our hope is that providing PSTs with opportunities to engage in vulnerability and relationship-building in their own teacher preparation courses can develop a sense of comfort with relationality in their future classrooms. Such relationality goes beyond simply striving to build positive relationships; rather, it’s about learning and growing alongside one another in connected, interdependent, contextually-situated ways (Suárez & Krist, 2023). These relational stances can play out in micro-level interactions, in which they can express vulnerabilities (Krist, 2024). We are interested in how PSTs express and respond to vulnerability in these micro-level interactions as bids toward relationality. Toward this end, in this study we use multimodal discourse analysis to name and describe PSTs’ efforts toward relationality by exploring how they vulnerably engaged with one another during a conversation about teacher expectations and racial biases in a learning theory course. This effort could support teacher educators to notice and cultivate these efforts toward relationality in their teacher preparation courses.

Keywords: STEM preservice teachers vulnerability

BIO

My name is Marie Weber. I am a biochemistry student, class of 2027 in FSU’s honors college. I am also a presidential scholar and am engaged in leadership at SCURC. I was adopted from China at the age of one and grew up in Sarasota, FL. I am interested in research that relates to the human body, neurology, genetics, and biotechnology. I really enjoy learning about how intricate the human body is and who we can alter living organisms on the cellular level. After graduating from FSU, I plan to continue with research and graduate school or a medical career. I am passionate about being a lifelong learner and helping others. My hobbies include aerial silks, scuba diving, hiking, camping, backpacking and almost anything outdoors. I also really enjoy volunteering and serving others, especially those who are less fortunate. I am thankful for the opportunity to participate in UROP and have hands on learning experience of how a lab works in an academic environment as well as to being able to help conduct research that I am passionate about. I am also so thankful to my wonderful professors, Dr. Alan and Emily Lemmon for their kindness and support.

Evolution of the GABA Receptor in Upland Chorus Frog (Pseudacris ferarium) and its Relationship to Mating Preferences and Speciation

Abstract

During the process of speciation, populations diverge and become reproductively isolated from each other, leading to genetic divergence. In response to costly hybridization, male Upland chorus frogs (Pseudacris feriarum) have evolved a higher pulse rate mating call, which distinguishes them from another similar species (P. nigrita). Furthermore, female P. feriarum from sympatric populations (areas where they overlap with P. nigrita) have evolved the ability to not only discriminate between conspecific and heterospecific (P. nigrita) male calls, but also between male calls from their own versus different populations. These data suggest that P. feriarum is undergoing incipient speciation between allopatric and sympatric populations. Previous studies suggest that a shift in the balance between neural excitation and inhibition via glutamate and GABA receptors can alter how auditory neurons process pulse rate information in frog calls. Our overarching goal is to determine what cellular-molecular factors in the female brain may be contributing to divergence of their mating preferences. Specifically, we will assess whether variation in amino acid sequence of the GABA receptor is associated with mate choice differences among the two Pseudaris feriarum populations. We will translate the nucleotides of specific candidate genes in the GABA receptor to determine whether mutations at the nucleotide level result in amino acid substitutions among the 17 allopatric and sympatric, male and female frogs in this study. Evidence for amino acid differences between populations would suggest that mutations in GABA receptor genes may underlie divergence in neural processing and behavioral differences in chorus frogs.

Keywords: GABA, DNA, genes, frogs, speciation

BIO

I am a sophomore from Weston, Florida studying Cell and Molecular Neuroscience. After receiving my undergraduate degree, I plan to attend medical school to become a physician. Other involvements of mine include my position as a Patient Care Assistant at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital and my membership in Phi Delta Epsilon, a professional pre-medical fraternity

Resistance Training Modulation of Fat Metabolism in Postmenopausal Women with Obesity

Abstract

Through our research, we aim to better understand the possible positive outcomes of regular exercise in preventing diabetes in postmenopausal women. We hope to provide these women with greater insight into improving their health. Our study involves participants undergoing twelve weeks of a guided exercise program, focusing on either resistance or endurance training. Using microdialysis, we evaluate their fat metabolism and lipolytic activity before and after the exercise interventions. Microdialysis is a minimally invasive approach to collecting extracellular fluid from the interstitial space of tissues in the body; for this study, we focus on subcutaneous gluteal and abdominal adipose tissue. 

Keywords: microdialysis, metabolism, resistance training

BIO

I am from Miami, Florida, and of Cuban and Nicaraguan descent. I am interested in wildlife preservation, researching ableism, and film. I aim to become a director and focus my films on political commentary. I aim to expose societal injustices within my films. I do wildlife photography and work with animal organizations to highlight endangered species. I also have been researching the ableism within film and how monstrous depictions of disability can prove harmful. I am a huge fan of dancing and expressing my culture. I also enjoy analyzing the films of famous directors.

The Films of Alexander Sokurov

Abstract

Russian director Alexander Sokurov is best known for his unique film style and his creative reconstructions of history. Films like Russian Ark marked Russian cinematic history and his political undertones serve to promote themes of Russian nationalism. Other themes such as the complexity of familial relationships and the meaning of art are noteworthy staples in Sokurov’s work. This research aims to dissect the filmography of Alexander Sokurov and analyze Sokurov’s influence on Haitian filmmaker Raoul Peck’s film Moloch Tropical. The film follows a Haitian ruler as he struggles to remain powerful in the wake of a political revolution. By breaking down Peck’s film and noting the similarities to Sokurov’s work, Wakamiya and I were able to understand what aspects of Peck’s work were inspired by the Russian filmmaker. We also worked to review various essays concerning the impact of Sokurov’s filmography. Like Sokurov, we discovered that aspects such as deconstructing the image of influential political figures by attributing them to undesirable qualities like pettiness and instability were prevalent in Peck’s film. The scholarly articles revealed Sokurov’s deep influence on Russian cinema and his desire to restore Russian nationality. Overall, Sokurov’s influence on Moloch Tropical allowed for Peck’s unique political commentary and themes.

Keywords: film, Alexander Sokurov, politics, analysis, Raoul Peck

BIO

Growing up near the water, the ocean and its systems have always been a part of my life. It was not until my sophomore year of college that I realized that the sciences could become my career. My relentless curiosity for the intricacies of how nature works as a whole lead to me study Environmental Science. Through volunteering and further involvement at the FSU Coastal and Marine Lab, I have been able to become involved with marine science research spanning from oysters to sharks. After I finish my studies, I hope to work in field and lab settings conducting research for the state or abroad and be able to see nature all over the world.

Photogrammetric Modeling of Artificial Reefs to Measure Reef Accretion

Abstract

Oysters are a foundation species in Apalachicola Bay, and they provide many ecological and ecosystem services to this productive and valuable ecosystem, including habitat for an array of commercially and ecologically important species. The oyster fishery in Apalachicola Bay collapsed in 2013 and oysters have continued to decline despite significant restoration efforts. Restoring the lost ecosystem services in Apalachicola Bay will require understanding the recovery potential of historically productive reef sites and if they can respond to restoration efforts by rebuilding essential habitat made of sessile organisms. The goals of this research are to provide insight into how quickly oysters and other reef species recruit and grow on artificial complex habitats. Artificial reef structures were deployed at 6 sites across the bay spanning a gradient of environmental conditions. These structures are being surveyed for recruitment of sessile organisms contributing to overall accretion and calculations of total volume every 6 months using photogrammetric techniques, for 2 years (ending in April 2024) to quantify accretion rates at each site. Data will be analyzed to understand how environmental conditions influence the colonization and growth of oysters and other benthic fauna across the bay. These data will help understand how environmental characteristics influence recovery of oyster reef associated communities and identify the most promising sites for successful future restoration efforts.

Keywords: Artificial Reefs, Restoration, Apalachicola Bay, Oysters, Photogrammetry

BIO

My name is Shilpa Shiju, and I am currently a freshman at FSU. My passion lies in exploring the intersection of community and healthcare accessibility. I'm driven to discover innovative solutions that enhance healthcare access for individuals facing socio-economic challenges through my research endeavors. In the future, I want to become a doctor and provide care to disadvantaged communities while still pursuing research.

Vaccine Hesitancy Amongst the Hadza Population of Tanzania

Abstract

Research into vaccination hesitancy can provide valuable information as to why some cultures reject vaccinations, which can then be used to increase vaccination acceptance. This study focuses on the hunter-gatherer Hadza tribe in Tanzania, who have a heavy belief in traditional medicine. This is in part due to limited access to healthcare and vaccinations because of geographical conflicts. The study will provide culturally relevant information on the tribe's views on vaccination, which cannot be gained in nationwide studies.
This ethnographic study surveyed 91 participants across 6 different Hadza camps. The participants were asked various questions relating to medical information and vaccine access/information in their communities.
The majority of participants in the survey answered that they strongly believe vaccines are safe (64.8%) and effective (65.2%). There were no significant differences in these beliefs across camps. When asked if vaccines were important for children to have, 72.2% of participants strongly agreed that they were, 23.33% didn’t know, and only 1.1% strongly disagreed. This is in contrast to how 31.5% of participants strongly agreed and 29.2% strongly disagreed with the statement that vaccines are important for adults to have, though they did have a somewhat similar amount of people answering that they didn’t know, with 26.97%.
The Hadza people obtain vaccine information from multiple avenues which include medical staff, tribal leaders, and traditional healers. These avenues provide the tribe with a strong sense of security during the vacations they receive.

Keywords: Vaccination Hesitancy, Tribal Health, Politics

BIO

I am a second year Cell and Molecular Neuroscience student from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, dedicated to expanding my knowledge in the world of science, engineering, and medicine. I aspire to pursue a career in the medical world as a physician, with the hopes of combining both my research skills as well as my passion for helping others. My main goal is to discover new treatments and medication to assist people in need.

Genetic Engineering of Cell Cycle Genes in Pancreatic Beta Cells

Abstract

Diabetes is a chronic disease affecting millions of Americans every day. This illness stems from the body’s inability to use insulin effectively and produce sufficient insulin. Our bodies contain specialized cells called pancreatic beta cells, which are responsible for fabricating insulin and play a crucial role in storing and transporting glucose in our bodies for cells to use in later processes. Through a series of meticulous procedures and testing, this research explores the idea of developing an effective system that will allow us to manufacture an adenovirus which later will be used to infect these pancreatic beta cells to promote cell proliferation. Using different procedures such as mini prep, enzyme digestions, DNA extractions, gel electrophoresis, and gateway cloning systems, we have been able to first develop a plasmid which we can introduce into a viral vector to create the adenovirus. Through our use of CRISPR and CRISPRa technology, we will be able to screen the adenovirus and target different genes, as well as locate specific cell cycle inhibitors and activators that could be responsible for regulation of cell proliferation in pancreatic beta cells. This experiment is significant in the advancement of medicine, treatments, and technology for diabetes. It will provide a new alternative and treatment to regulate and treat diabetes. Our research is ongoing, and new results are continuously collected. 

Keywords: Genetic Engineering

BIO

Grace is a junior at Florida State University from Martinsburg, West Virginia! She is studying one of her largest passions, History, and plans to graduate in the Fall of 2025.
Grace is involved in many organizations on campus, such as the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, Her Campus at FSU (HCFSU), and FSU's Kappa Kappa Gamma (KKG) chapter. She serves as a Content Editor for HCFSU and the Philanthropy Director of KKG. She is a go-to for anything History-related and is always looking for new experiences!

Ungentlemanly Warfare: Women Spies of the Special Operations Executive During WWII

Abstract

During World War II (WWII), the world of espionage called for many noble individuals, men and women alike, to step forward on behalf of their country. Ungentlemanly Warfare: Women Spies of the Special Operations Executive During WWII explores the pivotal role played by women in the Special Operations Executive (SOE) during World War II, shedding light on their contributions as spies and wireless operators. These women demonstrated exceptional courage and resourcefulness, undertaking covert missions in occupied territories to gather crucial intelligence, sabotage Axis operations, and aid resistance movements. These women demonstrated incredible devotion as they continuously faced the threat of capture, torture, rape, and execution. Through a series of literary analyses, depositions, and previously classified SOE documents, this research aims to uncover the truth behind the women operatives’ stories, examine the societal attitudes toward their work, and their impact on the Allies’ success in Europe. This research will elevate the often-overlooked history of these women and their invaluable role in World War II.

Keywords: history, WWII, World War II, women, gender