Research Symposium

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Jayna Hankin She/Her Poster Session 1: 9:30 am - 10:30 am /109


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BIO


I am deeply passionate about the intricate workings of our planet's marine ecosystems. Being from the coastal town of Dana Point, California, I have always been drawn to the mesmerizing beauty and complexity of the ocean. My research interests encompass various topics within marine biology, ecology, and conservation biology. As I embark on my academic journey, my ultimate career goal is to pursue a master's degree focused on these interests, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to conserving and understanding our precious marine ecosystems.

Evaluation of Former Mangrove Restorations Using Sediment Samples as a Basis for Restoration Success and Resiliency

Authors: Jayna Hankin, Josh Breithaupt
Student Major: Biology
Mentor: Josh Breithaupt
Mentor's Department: Coastal & Marine Laboratory
Mentor's College: Florida State University
Co-Presenters:

Abstract


Mangrove ecosystems in Florida serve as crucial habitats for diverse species and offer protection against tropical cyclones while storing carbon dioxide. However, they face threats from rising sea levels, hurricanes, and human activities, which hinder their resilience and sustainability. While restored mangrove ecosystems have shown resilience historically, their long-term success in the face of accelerating sea-level rise remains to be determined. Considering various ecological factors, we hypothesize no difference in carbon sequestration between restored and natural mangrove wetlands. Our approach involves assessing carbon fixation and sediment accretion rates, with natural sites serving as benchmarks for comparison. Sites along the Florida Gulf Coast were surveyed, selecting areas with similar elevation profiles for comparison. We evaluated carbon stocks, organic carbon loss, and soil properties, including dry bulk density, loss on ignition, moisture content, and calcium carbonate concentrations. The findings demonstrate the capacity of restored mangroves to rapidly regenerate soil to the point of resembling natural mangrove sediments. While natural sites initially display more stability and uniformity than restored sites, the latter exhibit complexity and variation as part of the restoration process. Over a couple of decades, these variations diminish, offering promising prospects for ongoing restoration efforts. By investing in mangrove restoration, we enable swift recovery of natural functionality.

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Keywords: Mangrove, Restoration, Ecology, Carbon Sequestration, Soil Analysis

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Gabriel Valvassori De Jesus Silva Poster Session 2: 10:45 am - 11:45 am/374


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BIO


I am an academic researcher at The DeVoe L. Moore Center, where I conduct and publish research with a focus on housing policy. I am also a student at Florida State University, pursuing two bachelor's degrees in economics and finance. I have earned multiple certifications in Microsoft Office, Excel, and QuickBooks, and my experience with Stata and Tableau demonstrates my proficiency in data analysis.

At The DeVoe L. Moore Center, I work with a team of researchers and professors to collect, analyze, and present research on various aspects of housing policy, such as affordability, regulation, and innovation. I use my Excel, Stata, and Tableau skills to create and manage databases, perform statistical tests, and generate reports and charts. I have contributed to several publications and presentations that inform and influence policymakers, stakeholders, and the public. I am passionate about applying my knowledge and skills to address real-world problems and create positive social impact. I value learning from diverse perspectives and experiences, and I seek to collaborate with others who share the same vision and goals.

Extent of Monocentrism In Tallahassee

Authors: Gabriel Valvassori De Jesus Silva, Crystal Taylor
Student Major: Economics and Finance
Mentor: Crystal Taylor
Mentor's Department: Economics
Mentor's College: College of Social Sciences and Public Policy
Co-Presenters: Maria Clara Sandoval Durski

Abstract


Understanding city growth and development is crucial for planning infrastructure expansion, predicting place-based population needs, and efficiently allocating resources. The monocentric model assumes concentrated employment in the Central Business District (CBD), rising transportation costs with increasing distance from the CBD, and decreasing land prices with increasing distance from the CBD. Non-monocentric cities typically reap more benefits from agglomeration economies than monocentric cities. The researchers ask the following research question: How well, if at all, does the city of Tallahassee, FL fit the standard monocentric model?
Using 2021 IPUMS maps and data from Policy Map, researchers conducted two regression analyses, one monocentric model and another non-monocentric model, inspired by researchers analyzing Beijing, China. The dependent variable for both models is employment density. The independent variables are distance from the city center in the monocentric model and distance from the city center and distance from the subcenter in the non-monocentric model, representing how non-monocentric models have different job concentration centers.
Preliminary results show that Tallahassee remains largely monocentric, with only marginal improvement in explanatory power between monocentric and non-monocentric models. Usually, cities begin as monocentric, becoming non-monocentric as they grow. However, Tallahassee is the capital of Florida, and a significant portion of employment is centered on government activities. The government's resistance to market forces may explain Tallahassee’s continued monocentrism, despite non-monocentrism being more effective with agglomeration economies boosting wages, efficiency, and reducing production costs due to lower transportation expenses.

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Keywords: Monocentric, polycentric, Tallahassee, employment, planning

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Emily Taylor Poster Session 1: 9:30 am - 10:30 am /343


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BIO


Currently a first year in Computer Science here at FSU. I enjoy research that lets me create things and learn from them. In general, I’m interested in learning anything and everything, especially related to coding or the outdoors. I’m not sure what my career goals are yet, but I’ll probably involve coding or writing. I love creative writing and learning how to code video games.

Trade and the Spread of Civilizations

Authors: Emily Taylor, Bryce Morsky
Student Major: Computer Science
Mentor: Bryce Morsky
Mentor's Department: Department of Mathematics
Mentor's College: College of Arts and Sciences
Co-Presenters:

Abstract


There are a limited number of resources in the world, many of which we need to live. Individually, only a few people would be lucky enough to be in a location with enough resources to survive. The majority of the population, however, would be unable to sustain themselves, having access to only a few resources. The only way for these people to survive is to trade with others, exchanging their excess for necessities. Most everyone is willing to trade if they get something they want, but not many will trade for things they don’t need. However, people are willing to give away spare resources to help out if they know that the other will do the same if the situation reverses. These friendships eventually form societies, large networks of individuals collaborating together. Survival is much more likely if one is part of a society than living outside of one. Even still, resource management remains key to survival of not just the individual, but also of the society. Cooperation and coordination is necessary to make sure everyone has access to what they need, and is one of the most influential factors that enabled ancient society to reach where we are today. In this study, effective resource management strategies are gauged and tested by four civilizations in a limited world. We found that civilizations that share their wealth more between members have a higher number of surviving members than those who hoarded resources.

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Keywords: simulation model trade civilization coding

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Morgan Farmer She/her Poster Session 1: 9:30 am - 10:30 am /378


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BIO


I am an honors exercise physiology student, on a pre-physical therapy track.

Gender Stereotypes in Media

Authors: Morgan Farmer, Sunah Lee
Student Major: Exercise Physiology
Mentor: Sunah Lee
Mentor's Department: School of Communication
Mentor's College: College of Communication and Information
Co-Presenters: Nina Miquis, Alejandra Mejia

Abstract


People consume a plethora of information and stimulus through the media every day. What is showcased in advertisements can inform consumers on what is popular and cultivate an image for them to strive for. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects and influence of advertisements displaying hair in the media on gender and racial stereotypes. Throughout various forms of media there are advertisements that display different hair types, and the presentation of certain hair types often contributes to gender and racial stereotypes. For example, if there is an advertisement in a magazine that shows a woman with straight hair in an office, dressed professionally, but then another shows a woman with curly hair in sweats laying around the house, it delivers a message. The message may be subliminal, but it can be harmful. Overtime, seeing various hair types presented in different lights in the media perpetrates strong racial and gender stereotypes. This research project is based on a database of advertisements compiled from People and US Weekly magazines. All of the advertisements used to create the database include women and showcase a variety of hair types and styles. By examining the database and how different hair types are portrayed we expect to find a correlation between media presentation and the continuation of gender/racial stereotypes.

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Keywords: Gender, Stereotypes, Media

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Remi Siegel-Ventura she/her/hers Poster Session 4: 2:45 pm - 3:45 pm /10


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BIO


Hailing from Fanwood, New Jersey, my fervor for marine mammal conservation, especially regarding orca whales and coral reef preservation, has steered my academic journey. Throughout my undergraduate tenure, I immersed myself in marine ecosystem research, presenting findings at the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference. Engaged in the Honors Program, I delved into laboratory research and actively participated in extracurriculars, such as the FSU Oxford Consortium of Human Rights, FSU Flying High Circus, and leadership roles in student organizations.

My career ambition centers on attaining a Ph.D. in Marine Conservation Biology to safeguard marine mammal populations and habitats, influencing governmental policies. Subsequently, I aim to pursue a law degree to actively shape policy formulation. By integrating scientific research, advocacy, and legal expertise, I am committed to preserving our oceans for future generations.

Whale, What Have We Here? A Comprehensive Analysis of Orca Whale and Vessel Interactions

Authors: Remi Siegel-Ventura, Julia Saltzman
Student Major: Environmental Science, Classical Civilizations
Mentor: Julia Saltzman
Mentor's Department: Department of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences
Mentor's College: College of Arts and Sciences
Co-Presenters:

Abstract


The escalating prevalence of orca whale and vessel interactions has captured the attention of both the media and scientists. Recent analysis has indicated that these interactions are often playful behavior. However, the increasing frequency of orca-vessel interactions and damages demands an understanding of the impact vessels have on orcas. Orcinus orcas, apex predators, play a pivotal role in marine ecosystems by influencing prey populations and contributing to ecosystem development during life and post-death. This study attempts to synthesize the impact of vessel presence on orca whale behavior. To date, we have analyzed over 20 papers. Previous studies focus on behavioral changes including foraging, vocalizations, and dive patterns. Our preliminary findings indicate vessel presence, noise, and other factors impact behavior including but not limited to foraging, vocalizations, and dive times. The urgency of understanding this topic extends past scientific inquiry. Our findings underscore the necessity for further research to inform environmental guidelines, including the implementation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) or speed restrictions. Collaborative efforts with recreational and commercial vessel operators are essential to mitigate the escalating impact of these encounters. As vessel interactions with orcas continue to unfold, ongoing analysis and engagement with impacted industries are imperative for the formulation of effective guidelines and strategies. This research not only contributes to the broader understanding of marine ecosystems but also serves as a crucial step toward fostering sustainable coexistence between human activities and these magnificent creatures.

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Keywords: whales, marine biology, science, meta-analysis

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Sofia Villanueva She/her Poster Session 2: 10:45 am - 11:45 am/96


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BIO


I am interested in social evolutionary psychology specifically, the role of individual personality traits in larger group decision making. I hope to continue studying psychology after undergrad and obtain a PhD in social psychology. In addition to learning I love teaching and hope to one day teach the next generation of researchers in a college environment.

Mechanisms that promote cooperative behavior in groups

Authors: Sofia Villanueva, Jose Martinez M.S.
Student Major: Psychology and Sociology
Mentor: Jose Martinez M.S.
Mentor's Department: Psychology
Mentor's College: Florida State University
Co-Presenters: Danielle Cruz, Lauren Robbins, Sarah Jenkins, Olivia Alintoff

Abstract


Cooperation is crucial for human success. People cooperate with close friends and family, their community, and even complete strangers. One mechanism that promotes cooperation is punishment. The consequences associated with punishment include the prevention of future wrongdoings and setting a precedent of unacceptable behavior. Another (understudied) mechanism is reward, which can redeem the victim and increase downstream cooperation. The current work used the dual strategies framework of dominance and prestige to understand when and why people punish selfish others or reward cooperators.

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Keywords: cooperation, dominance, prestige, reward, punishment

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

John Ocampo Poster Session 1: 9:30 am - 10:30 am /445


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BIO


Undergraduate Florida State University student pursing a Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs with a concentration in public administration and a minor in Entrepreneurship Studies. I am incredibly passionate about all aspects of public service and highly motivated to learn and acquire new skillsets.

Central Americans Identity in the U.S

Authors: John Ocampo, Kristen Amaya
Student Major: International Affairs
Mentor: Kristen Amaya
Mentor's Department: Sociology
Mentor's College: Florida State University
Co-Presenters:

Abstract


This research project delves into multiple interviews that examine Central Americans' experiences with identity and belonging after settling and living in the United States. The research aims to gather each perspective of each individual and their unique experience after settling and living in the United States. Several Central American states are interviewed in the process to get an overview of how each experiences different phases when getting used to life in the United States. Throughout the interview process, each interviewee is asked a series of questions ranging from their childhood to their family background. This provides insight into how everyone grew up how their cultural customs influenced their upbringings and how it translated into life in the United States. This research also examines how the interviewee feels towards how there perceived in American society.

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Keywords: N/A

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Abigail Patterson Poster Session 1: 9:30 am - 10:30 am /6


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BIO


My name is Abigail Patterson. I'm currently a sophomore in the Industrial Engineering program here at FSU. I'm originally from Broward County and a fun fact about me is that I was homeschooled!

Applying the Business Model Canvas to the SBRI Grant

Authors: Abigail Patterson, Jonathan Adams
Student Major: Industrial Engineering
Mentor: Jonathan Adams
Mentor's Department: Information
Mentor's College: College of Communication and Information
Co-Presenters: Natalia Tunajek

Abstract


The Small Business Research Innovation grant provides small businesses with the opportunity to access significant federal funding and support for commercialization. However, the application process can be intimidating, particularly for small organizations unfamiliar with business-related information collection. To address this challenge, we propose utilizing the Value Model Canvas, a business information tool designed to simplify processes by providing a structured framework for collecting essential information, including market opportunity, technological innovation, and research objectives. The information gathered using the canvas aligns with the requirements for the grant application process, potentially streamlining the application process.

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Keywords: SBRI, Value Model Canvas, Business Model Canvas

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Priyanka Perumalraja she/her/hers Poster Session 2: 10:45 am - 11:45 am/2


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BIO


My name is Priyanka Perumalraja and I am a Computational Biology researcher from Boynton Beach, Florida! I'm interested in the intersection of data science and technology with biology, especially how it can improve biological discovery. Throughout my educational and professional career, I plan to involve myself in biotechnology and work with diverse interdisciplinary communities.

The effects of PAK1 deletion on cardiomyocyte contraction and Ca2+ release in neonatal mouse ventricular myocytes

Authors: Priyanka Perumalraja, Dr. Christopher Solis
Student Major: Computational Biology
Mentor: Dr. Christopher Solis
Mentor's Department: Health, Nutrition, and Food Sciences
Mentor's College: Health and Human Sciences
Co-Presenters:

Abstract


PAK1 is a kinase known for influencing the structure and motility of cells. In adult mouse cardiomyocytes, the removal of PAK1 results in decreased calcium ion (Ca2+) release and contraction rates. This research focuses on determining whether PAK1 deletion in neonatal cardiomyocytes influences Ca2+ release and sarcomere contraction rates. To test whether PAK1 deletion influences sarcomere contraction and Ca2+ release rates at the myocyte level specifically, neonatal mice cardiomyocyte cultures were used to compare wild type (WT; without PAK1 deletion) and knockout (KO; with PAK1 deletion) mouse strain. Contraction was tracked using fluorescently labeled α-actinin-YFP infected into cardiomyocyte cultures. Ca2+ release was tracked using Ca2+ indicator Fluo-4 AM fluorescence. Contraction and relaxation time in the PAK1 KO was significantly higher than the WT. Conversely, sarcomere shortening was significantly lower in PAK1 KO than the WT.000000. Contracted and relaxed sarcomere lengths were also significantly shorter in the KO than WT. The removal of PAK1 in the KO samples led to decreased Ca2+ release. The deletion of PAK1 significantly influences the contractile kinetics and Ca2+ release of neonatal mice cardiomyocytes. This suggests that PAK1 deletion shows early signs of depressed contraction and Ca2+ release in neonatal cardiomyocytes.

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Keywords: Biology, Tracking, Computer Science, Heart

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Nicholas White Poster Session 3: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm /443


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BIO


I am a second year student at FSU and I am a Cellular Microbiology and Neuroscience major. I enjoy to learn about new medicine and learning about how people think. In my free time I enjoy working out and playing lacrosse. I have loved working on this project to learn how people people and AI interact together and how AI can be used to help people.

Career readiness and the wellbeing for college students with disabilities in the era of artificial intelligence ​

Authors: Nicholas White, Shengli Dong
Student Major: Cellular Microbiology and Neuroscience
Mentor: Shengli Dong
Mentor's Department: Department of Educational Psychology and Learning Systems
Mentor's College: College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Co-Presenters:

Abstract


This scoping review aims to investigate challenges faced by college students with disabilities during postsecondary education and their job market transition, especially under the era of artificial intelligence. The scoping specifically examines how artificial intelligence (AI) impacts their academic success, social interactions, and workforce entry. AI applications, including tailored learning materials and job matching platforms, are highlighted (Martiniello, 2020). However, barriers such as misinterpretation and potential exclusion of candidates with diverse workplace needs emerge in the literature (Trewin, 2018). The study stresses the significance of a comprehensive review to understand nuanced needs, evaluate interventions, and guide future research and practice, emphasizing a balanced consideration of AI's potential in supporting college students with disabilities.

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Keywords: AI, Disabilities, College, Students, Work

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Paige Landreneau Poster Session 1: 9:30 am - 10:30 am /211


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BIO


Hello, my name is Paige Landreneau and I am from Andalusia, Alabama. Growing up, I dreamed of becoming a professional ballerina and was on my way to becoming one when I broke my hip. Because I was no longer able to dance, I decided to go to school for my second passion - Psychology!

Trusting Impressions: Exploring the Influence of Personal Experiences on Lay Theories of First Impressions

Authors: Paige Landreneau, Irmak Olcaysoy Okten
Student Major: Psychology
Mentor: Irmak Olcaysoy Okten
Mentor's Department: Department of Psychology
Mentor's College: College of Arts and Sciences
Co-Presenters:

Abstract


Individuals tend to vary in the extent to which they trust their first impressions of other people, yet the underlying factors shaping the general trust on their first impressions remain largely unexplored. Our research outlines an exploratory investigation into the nexus between individuals' general trust in first impressions and their personal experiences, specifically their initial interactions with close confidants. Through an online survey study (N=151), we aimed to discern patterns between the level of trust in first impressions as a metacognitive factor (e.g., “my first impressions are correct”) and participants’ recollections of their actual past experiences of forming first impressions, particularly within the context of best friendships. Our study posited two predictions: firstly, people who remember their first impression of their best friend as more positive will also think that their first impressions are generally more accurate, and secondly, people whose impressions of their best friend changed less over time will also think that their first impressions are generally more accurate. Results confirmed both predictions. This research offers new insights into understanding the mechanisms of trusting first impressions. Potential future research could look at the consequences of over confidence in first impression that could lead to biases. Perhaps our self- awareness, including our thoughts and beliefs, is partially influenced by firsthand experience. By illuminating the intricate dynamics of how individuals navigate their initial perceptions within the fluidity of interpersonal relationships, we can begin to understand the framework of forming an objective impression.

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Keywords: Psychology, Impressions, Interpersonal

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Pietro Candiani Poster Session 2: 10:45 am - 11:45 am/230


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BIO


Interested in the application of machine learning to solver real world problems. Since I was little I was passionate to problem solving which has lead me t double major in computer science and pure math, and I hope to use this skills to help solve problems.

Applications of Machine Learning in Finance

Authors: Pietro Candiani, Arafatur Rahman
Student Major: Mathematics and Computer Science
Mentor: Arafatur Rahman
Mentor's Department: Financial Mathematics
Mentor's College: Florida State University
Co-Presenters: Alexander Khan

Abstract


This study explores the predictive capabilities of Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) models in forecasting the stock price movements of the S&P 500. The model utilizes a comprehensive set of features, including historical stock prices, macroeconomic indicators, and technical indicators. By conducting a comparative analysis, this research assesses the performance of the models and the significance of different features. The findings reveal that the LSTM model's effectiveness varies with the inclusion of specific features and the chosen timeframes. Additionally, the study examines the impact of market volatility events, such as the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, on predictive accuracy. Highlighting the potential of technical indicators in market condition predictability, the project offers insights for future advancements in financial market forecasting models.

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Keywords: Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Finance, Stock Prediction

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Paige Rowland she/her/hers Poster Session 1: 9:30 am - 10:30 am /55


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BIO


Hi! My name is Paige Rowland, and I am from Tampa, Florida. I’m a sophomore majoring in Criminology with a minor in Sociology. My dream research opportunity would be to evaluate the mental health of people incarcerated in solitary confinement and then see how they adjust back into society. Currently, my career goal is to be a criminal defense attorney and my goal in that career path is to help the wrongfully convicted and those facing harsh sentences and possibly write a book one day.

Representation in Female-Directed Bollywood Films 

Authors: Paige Rowland, Rebecca Peters
Student Major: Criminology
Mentor: Rebecca Peters
Mentor's Department: Religion
Mentor's College: Arts and Sciences
Co-Presenters: Hakjae Oh

Abstract


Cinema and other cultural artifacts inhabit a special place in a cultural landscape in that they both influence and are influenced by the societies in which they originate. For this reason, our research project has focused on the portrayal of women in Bollywood, the leading film industry of India, where women have traditionally been characterized according to misogynistic interpretations of a woman’s role in society. However, there has been a recent increase in female directors employed in the industry. This change has made Bollywood an interesting case study. In this project, we gathered information through qualitative surveys that surrounded the role of women in Bollywood films directed by women and released to wider audiences. Researchers compiled this data through the survey database of Qualtrics to identify certain taboo behaviors, articles of clothing, and other indicators exhibited by female characters. Although the study is still in its early phases, this project highlights preliminary results from more than twenty films.

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Keywords: Bollywood, Female-Directed, Films

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Ryan Napoleon Poster Session 3: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm /32


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BIO


Ryan is a freshman Presidential Scholar from Jacksonville Florida. His research interests revolve around the inner workings of the insurance industry and its role in the United States political and financial systems. Although it is early in his college career, he plans to continue his involvement in the insurance world by becoming an insurance broker after college.

Insurance Industry Involvement and its Effect on Insurance Commissioner Premiums

Authors: Ryan Napoleon, Dana Telljohann
Student Major: Insurance and Risk Management
Mentor: Dana Telljohann
Mentor's Department: Insurance and Risk Management
Mentor's College: College of Business
Co-Presenters:

Abstract


Understanding how and why insurance commissioners make their decisions on insurance rates is essentially to make sure that the right people get in office and that they make the right decisions. For this project, data on insurance commissioners was collected and analyzed to determine if their career before and after their position made a difference in their decision on rates. First, data was collected to see what jobs commissioners from all states in the past 20 years had. Then data was cleaned and a program was used called state to create a statistical analysis of this data. Insurance commissioners who worked in the industry before and/or after their time in office were chosen to be observed. It was hypothesized that there would be a slight bias in regards to their rates compared to other commissioners who didn’t go back into the industry. The P values for commissioners who worked in the insurance industry before and before/after their time in office were .006 and .028 respectively, meaning that there were statistically significant correlations.

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Keywords: Insurance Commissioner Premiums

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Prithvi Sivaprakash he/him Poster Session 3: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm/249


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BIO


I am a freshman at Florida State University pursuing a double major in Finance and Mathematics. I currently reside in Jacksonville, Florida; however, my family has moved around a lot having lived in places like Chicago, and Connecticut. My career aspirations are focused on the finance sector, aiming to excel in the M&A market as an Investment Banking Analyst. Currently, I am sharpening my skills through practical experience in diverse roles: as a Financial Analyst at the Health Foundation of South Florida, a Private Equity Analyst for Vangal, and an SAT/Math tutor through my freelancing business. These positions allow me to build a solid foundation in financial analysis, investment strategies, and educational mentorship. My commitment to professional growth in finance is paralleled by my dedication to fostering academic excellence among the younger generation.

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

Authors: Prithvi Sivaprakash, Kalan Horton
Student Major: Finance and Mathematics
Mentor: Kalan Horton
Mentor's Department: Business
Mentor's College: Florida State University
Co-Presenters: Aiden Weezorack

Abstract


Complementor Evolution and Power-Dependence impact on Performance is the result of competition between platforms facilitating the interaction of different groups using a certain service or product. Since many platforms compete with one another for performance, it’s important to analyze their mode of evolution through complements and promotion strategies. Our goal in this project is to investigate how the complementors can rebalance their relationships within power dependence to finalize a power-dependence theory. We explore the evolution of the network to create power balance between competitive ecosystems. The study we conducted analyzes over 14,000 games across multiple platforms to examine and find relationships between the complementor evolution and platform dependence. The linear regression provides support for our theory indicating how complementor evolution and platform dependence impact complementor performance. Overall, this study stands to contribute to power dependence theory by enhancing dependence strategies. It also generates practical implications to create an effective solution for navigating ecosystem dynamics.

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Keywords: Evolution, Technology, Video Games, Sales, Business

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Madeline (Maddie) Loren Castillo She, her, and hers Poster Session 2: 10:45 am - 11:45 am/30


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BIO


As a first-generation Ecuadorian student at Florida State University, I aim to establish a legacy of educational and financial empowerment for future generations. Through founding the first Ecuadorian organization, EcuadoriaNoles, at FSU and participating in the First Generation LLC, I've been immersed in campus diversity and history. Currently studying Business Marketing, my goal is to pursue a dual-degree in Real Estate, driven by my family's experiences and the desire to understand its commercial and financial aspects. Post-graduation, I aspire to earn an MBA with a Real Estate specialization. My decision to obtain a Real Estate Sales Associate License reflects my commitment to this field. Additionally, I plan to minor in communications or digital media, focusing on Hispanic Marketing, leveraging my previous involvement in the Multicultural Marketing Association. I prioritize gaining experience, skills, and networking opportunities, believing they are essential for success in both college and my future career. My motto emphasizes contributing to the community, a commitment I aim to fulfill through marketing and real estate endeavors.

Stand Up Branding: Does brand activism impact consumer attitudes and behaviors for every type of brand?

Authors: Madeline (Maddie) Loren Castillo, General Supervisor & Mentor: Ashley Johns
Student Major: Bachelor’s of Science in Marketing Management, Real Estate (College of Business)
Mentor: General Supervisor & Mentor: Ashley Johns
Mentor's Department: Department of Communication & Information
Mentor's College: College of Communication & Information
Co-Presenters: Amelia Nordling, Estefania Cardenal & Mia Wolman

Abstract


This study seeks to understand brand activism advertising, consumer perceptions, and behaviors, specifically focusing on differentiating effects on hedonic and utilitarian brands. Brand activism can be defined as businesses projecting their beliefs on certain social, environmental, economic, or political issues through media, advertisements, donations, initiatives, etc. Examples of brand activism in the 21st century include stands against climate change, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice. It has become increasingly prevalent that existing literature contains numerous gaps both in examining this behavior, both from the perspective of brands and from the consumer point of view. This study adds to a more complex knowledge of how brand activism influences customer reactions and provides information that is useful for utilitarian and hedonistic marketing strategies. The approach offers a strong basis for deriving significant inferences regarding the diverse impacts of brand activism on distinct categories of brands. The next steps for this project include data collection, data analysis, conference submission, and journal submission.

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Keywords: Utilitarian, Activism, Brands, Marketing, Advertising, Business

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Audrey Lendvay they/them Poster Session 1: 9:30 am - 10:30 am /259


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BIO


I use paint, printmaking, found materials, animal imagery, and journalism as a means to synthesize internal and external worlds as they are informed by histories and social systems. Making work that is both playful and contemplative, I explore the ways in which the self’s inherent fluidity and creativity is repressed and repossessed, taking particular interest in religious, queer, and endotic experiences. I am based in Jacksonville, Florida, and am currently completing my Bachelor of Fine Arts at Florida State University with a minor in Museum Studies. I intend to apply for graduate school at FSU's art education Masters program and pursue a career in museum education.

Salvage Material Supply: Making Eco-Friendly Art Accessible ​

Authors: Audrey Lendvay, Katie Kehoe
Student Major: Studio Art
Mentor: Katie Kehoe
Mentor's Department: Department of Art
Mentor's College: College of Fine Arts
Co-Presenters:

Abstract


Conventional artmaking as we know it is not an environmentally friendly practice. The use of unsustainable and toxic materials, as well as the waste produced in or concurrently with art practices goes largely unrecognized but remains the standard for artists and within art institutions across the world. As caring for the environment becomes more urgent than ever, making environmentally conscious art becomes not only a means to improve our ecological footprint, but also an opportunity to meaningfully engage audiences with current events and inspire them to seek innovative solutions in new or overlooked realms. This became the ethos of research: How can artists be encouraged to work more sustainably with materials, and how can sustainable art practices be made both more accessible and exciting to Florida State University’s art community? To achieve this, properties, safe handling, and possible uses of easily obtained waste materials were assembled. Alongside this are relevant artists who work sustainably with found materials. This information is to be assembled and cataloged in a book form. The physical copy will be made available to any member of Florida State University in the Fine Arts Building where it will accompany an organized free supply of salvaged materials that students are welcome to take from and contribute to. ​

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Keywords: sustainability artmaking materials

24th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 3, 2024

Natalija Nikolić She/Her Natalija Nikolic Poster Session 2: 10:45 am - 11:45 am/218


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BIO


Natalija Nikolić is a senior Civil Engineering major, with minors in Chinese, Astrophysics, and Mathematics. Her research experiences include working at the MagLab on a project involving cuprate superconductivity and at the RIDER center on a project conducting wind engineering tests on 3D printed model buildings. Her current project, Impact of Biobased Microvascular Networks in Advanced Composites, is serving as her Honors Thesis project, which she will defend in the Fall. Post-graduation, Natalija will work as a structural engineering intern with Stantec for a semester and eventually begin graduate school with a focus on materials science and engineering.

Impact of Biobased Microvascular Networks in Advanced Composites

Authors: Natalija Nikolić, Michael Elwardany
Student Major: Civil Engineering
Mentor: Michael Elwardany
Mentor's Department: Civil Engineering
Mentor's College: College of Engineering
Co-Presenters:

Abstract


This study investigates the integration of microvascular networks into advanced composite materials, aiming to enhance their thermal regulation and structural integrity. Inspired by nature's intricate designs, we fabricate three distinct microvascular network patterns - honeycomb, leaf venation, and chameleon skin capillaries - using 3D printing technology. These networks are then incorporated into composite materials during the layup process, ensuring uniform distribution and connectivity. After curing, mechanical and thermal tests are conducted to evaluate the performance of the composite specimens. Mechanical tests, including tensile, flexural, and impact tests, assess the material's strength and toughness, while thermal tests measure thermal conductivity and temperature regulation capabilities. Statistical analysis of the experimental data provides insights into the effectiveness of the microvascular networks in enhancing the properties of the composite materials. Our findings suggest that the integration of microvascular networks holds promise for developing high-performance composite materials with superior thermal regulation and structural properties. These materials have potential applications across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and structural engineering. Through our research, we contribute to the advancement of materials science and engineering, paving the way for the development of lightweight, high-strength materials with enhanced performance characteristics.

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Keywords: Composites, Microvascular Networks, Thermoregulation