Research Symposium

BIO

I am a sophomore honors student from Madrid, Spain, pursuing a dual degree in Theatre and Literature, Culture, and Media, with a minor in Communications. I'm passionate about storytelling in all its forms, and I've always had a deep curiosity for the ways culture shapes and reflects our world. My research interests span across film, art, literature, music, and broader cultural studies, allowing me to explore the intersections between media and human experience.
Outside the classroom, I'm actively involved in campus life as the Advertisement and Communications Coordinator for the Askew Student Life Center, where I combines my creative and strategic skills to promote events and student engagement. With plans to pursue graduate studies in journalism, I aspire to use my writing and analytical skills to tell compelling stories that inform and inspire. My international background and multidisciplinary academic path has given me a unique perspective that I bring to every project I'm part of. Whether I'm writing, performing, researching, or designing, I'm driven by a passion for communication, creativity, and cultural connection.

Beyond the Wall: The Impact of Mural Art

Abstract

Murals are art forms that go beyond aesthetic value, they bring people together, reflect cultural identities, and transform communities. This research explores the question: How does mural art influence the social and cultural dynamics of urban communities? Through the creation and exhibition of Rhizome, an installation in Tallahassee, this study examines the role of murals in shaping communal identity, fostering engagement, and reimagining public space. Understanding the role of mural art is essential for recognizing its potential to foster meaningful connections among diverse populations and contribute to urban development. Using a mixed-methods approach, the project incorporated digital fabrication, painting, and layered assembly techniques. Qualitative data was gathered through interviews with artists and community members, while quantitative data was collected via social media engagement metrics. This methodology allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the relationship between public art and community interaction. Findings indicate that murals enhance public spaces by instilling a sense of ownership, pride, and shared identity. Additionally, the integration of digital fabrication highlights new possibilities for mural sustainability and adaptability. However, challenges such as accessibility and long-term maintenance underscore the need for further research into mural preservation and inclusivity in public art initiatives. This study affirms that murals remain vital to urban development, bridging communities and fostering shared cultural experiences. By supporting mural projects, cities can cultivate dynamic, connected, and visually rich communities, reinforcing the power of public art as both a storytelling medium and a tool for social transformation.

Keywords: Art, Murals, Design, Community, Culture

BIO

My name is Daniel Lang, and I am a first-year presidential scholar and pre-medical behavioral neuroscience major. I am from Miami, Florida and a member of PhiDE, the medical fraternity on campus. I am interested in research pertaining to cognition and working memory.

Reading and Feeling with Japanese Literature​: Light and Dark by Natsume Sōseki ​

Abstract

Though it is still debated amongst scholars, it has been proven time and time again that literature has the ability to invoke real world emotions in readers. Our research project serves to go beyond the validation of literature evoking emotion, and instead uses works of Japanese literature in English translation to determine how exactly the author uses words to invoke sympathy and empathy. The goal of our project is to locate and document passages in the narrative that invite the reader's sympathy/empathy. We were assigned to read Light and Dark by Natsume Soseki and The Makioka Sisters by Jun'ichirō Tanizaki. Our team kept a digital reading log, where we typed out passages from the text that fit our literature review criteria, learning valuable proper citation skills in the process. These excerpts are our data where the author succeeds in drawing out real world sympathy and empathy and it is our job, alongside our research mentor Dr. Mewhinney, to figure out what skills and actions the author employs to invoke these emotions

Keywords: Japanese, Literature, Empathy

BIO

Rachael Moynihan (she/her) is currently a second-year undergraduate student at Florida State University, where she is majoring in Biological Sciences. Originally from Osceola County, Florida, she is passionate about research in animal behavior and reproductive strategies. Her current work focuses on pre-mating behaviors and reproductive decision-making in the simultaneous hermaphroditic sea slug (Doto chica). She has investigated how contact frequency influences mating initiation time and copulation duration, contributing to a deeper understanding of sexual selection and mate assessment in marine invertebrates.

Beyond research, Rachael is dedicated to improving patient confidence in healthcare settings. She aspires to become a physician assistant, using her scientific background and analytical skills to enhance patient care and communication. Her experiences in research have strengthened her critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which she hopes to apply in her future medical career.

The more you touch, the longer you wait: Investigating the effect of pre-mating contact on mating behaviors of pairs of varied sizes in the sea slug Doto Chica.

Abstract

Understanding reproductive behavior is crucial for exploring mating strategies across organisms. While much research on pre-mating assessment has focused on terrestrial animals with separate sexes, many marine invertebrates, including many groups of molluscs such as sea slugs, are simultaneous hermaphrodites. Simultaneous hermaphrodites can act as both male and female, allowing for complex mating strategies and behaviors not seen in separate-sex species, like reciprocal exchange of gametes, and distribution of sex functions depending on the conditions. This study examines how pre-mating contacts affect mating initiation time and duration in Doto chica, a simultaneous hermaphroditic sea slug. We found that while body size differences alone did not predict mating success or the number of pre-mating contacts, the frequency of these contacts influenced both the time to initiate mating and mating duration. This research provides insight into whether D. chica engages in extended assessment to choose mates offering higher fecundity assurance, contributing to our understanding of how physical and behavioral factors shape pre-mating strategies in marine hermaphrodites. Studying simultaneous hermaphroditism in mate choice is particularly important as it challenges traditional models of sexual selection and can reveal unique strategies for maximizing reproductive success when individuals can act as both male and female.

Keywords: marine biology, sea slugs, mating, reproduction

BIO

Amelia Khanji is a first-year student from Paramus, New Jersey, studying at Florida State University, where she is pursuing a degree in Music (BA) with plans to declare a dual degree in Cyber Criminology. She is a dedicated member of Florida State University's Honors Program and has the privilege of playing in her university's Concert Band as the principal bassoonist. Through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), she has gained hands-on research experience and has developed a variety of valuable analytical and technical skills. In the future, Amelia hopes to pursue a career in cybersecurity while continuing to nurture her passion and knowledge in music through participation in more musical ensembles.

Composing the Soundscape of “Annexed”: A Collaborative Arts Research Initiative

Abstract

This research project seeks to shed light on the untold stories of people who lived hiding during the Holocaust by developing a musical theater production. The musical score draws influence from German music of the mid-20th century to authentically represent the time and setting. However, the story centers around a family separated from the outside world, it was important to the project that the influence remained loose, reflecting the impact that isolation had on the characters. It was vital that the story was told, not just through the narrative, but through the songs as well. Research was conducted with the use of Google Scholar and FSU Library to collect and analyze data from trusted, professional sources including primary and secondary sources, books, and maps which were utilized in the composition process. The compositions were then reviewed, critiqued, and revised to refine the musical numbers. Many pieces have already been finalized, but the project is an ongoing endeavor. Future plans revolve around the improvement of the production as a whole. This includes expanding the score, revising dialogue, and addressing pacing issues. Performance media serves as an effective tool for education with its ability to connect with the audience experientially, emotionally, and intellectually. It is important for people to learn about lesser-known historical events such as these as they promote deeper understanding of the past and encourage empathy. The people of the past must be honored as well -- the resilience and bravery of individuals must not be lost to the past.

Keywords: Holocaust Education, Jewish History, Queer History, Music Composition, Music and Theatre Education

BIO

Sarah Willems is a sophomore biochemistry student from Fort Myers, Florida. Sarah is part of the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), focusing on effective mathematics instruction for students with disabilities. In addition to UROP, Sarah is a learning assistant for general chemistry and volunteers at the hospital. After completing her undergraduate degree, Sarah plans to attend graduate school to pursue a career in medicine.

Teacher Preparation for Teaching Mathematics to Students with Disabilities

Abstract

Skills related to mathematics are important concepts for all people to understand, including individuals with disabilities. Despite the importance of mathematics, special education teachers report feeling unprepared to teach mathematics and general education teachers report feeling unprepared to teach students with disabilities, despite the fact the majority students with disabilities receive instruction in general education classrooms. The primary goal of this nationwide survey is to elicit the opinions of subject matter experts (SMEs) to see what practices and approaches, including course hours and practice-based learning opportunities are recommended when preparing preservice teachers and what practices and approaches are happening within Institutions of Higher Education. The responses of general education and special education faculty who are preparing preservice were compared to see what differences exist between their perceptions of instructional responsibilities, teaching practices, and practice-based learning opportunities that are provided.

Keywords: teaching, education, mathematics, disabilities

BIO

My name is Olivia Hoover, and I am an undergraduate student at Florida State University majoring in Biomathematics and Public Health. I am from Boston, Massachusetts, and in the future I plan to earn my M.D. and practice as a physician. My academic interests include the impacts of social determinants of health on health status and outcomes, access to healthcare, and the promotion of education.

The Neighborhood Camp Fair

Abstract

Participation by primary and secondary school students in STEM enrichment programs can increase a student’s GPA and affinity for STEM topics (Bradford et. al 2021, Galvez et. al 2024). However, there exists a need to connect and engage underrepresented students with STEM enrichment programs. Therefore, the Neighborhood Camp Fair aims to connect STEM programs with students attending Title I schools in Tallahassee, FL. Some ways the project tries to connect with students include creating colorful posters, distributing them to local Title I schools and community centers in Tallahassee, and participating in local STEM nights at schools. Additionally, we also worked to determine the effectiveness of previous Camp Fairs. To do this, we analyzed information from previous attendees of the Camp Fair and organized it into an excel sheet. The results of this analysis showed that most students who attended the Camp Fair left interested in attending a STEM program in the future. Because of this increase, this project suggests that the Neighborhood Camp Fair is successful in connecting underrepresented students with free STEM programs. In the future, additional work is needed to continue to promote the Neighborhood Camp Fair and continue to connect students in Tallahassee with STEM programming.

Keywords: Community Outreach, STEM Education

BIO

My name is Jay Gruca, and I am a second-year psychology major at FSU. I enjoy hiking, doing landscape photography, and spending time with friends and family.

Exploring the Relation of Access to Healthcare with Gender Euphoria in Transgender Adults​ ​

Abstract

Despite increased accessibility to gender-affirming care for transgender individuals, there is insufficient research on the population’s unique needs. Current studies highlight the positive mental health impacts on transgender adults when healthcare providers promote gender euphoria (Beischel et al., 2021)​. The term gender euphoria is positive feelings experienced in relation to one's true gender (Jacobson & Devor, 2022). For transgender adults, these feelings may be experienced through gender-affirming healthcare such as hormone replacement therapy and surgical interventions (Coleman et al., 2022)​. This study aims to explore the relation of gender euphoria in transgender adults between the ages of 18-29 when receiving gender-affirming care in Florida. A qualitative phenomenological approach will be implemented to analyze the data. Snowball sampling will be employed to recruit 6 to ten participants. Interviews will be conducted via HIPAA-compliant Zoom. The aim of this study is to assess the phenomenon of gender euphoria for transgender adults in access to healthcare by addressing two research questions: “When receiving gender-affirming care in a healthcare setting, what is the nature of gender euphoria as experienced by transgender adults in Florida?” and “How do barriers to healthcare insurance (e.g., insurance, discrimination) shape experiences with gender euphoria in transgender adults?” Data will be coded into themes informing the study findings. This research will provide healthcare psychologists with interventions to increase feelings of gender euphoria for clients who are transgender. Further research is needed to better understand the prevalence of gender euphoria in transgender adults from various populations.

Keywords: healthcare, transgender, LGBTQ, Florida

BIO

My name is Noah Brown, and I’m from Atlanta, GA. I aspire to pursue a career in finance, with a particular focus on investment banking. I'm also deeply interested in research centered on economic studies and market trends, aiming to better understand the forces that shape financial decision-making and global markets.

Honesty & Observability

Abstract

Our research aims to investigate how individuals make decisions under conditions of scarcity and opportunity cost. By recruiting participants for a controlled experimental lab, we aim to observe their natural decision-making processes when faced with economic trade-offs. This study is significant because it provides insights into human behavior and decision-making, key concepts in economics and other social sciences.
Currently, we are in the recruitment phase, utilizing strategic outreach techniques, including practiced pitches and targeted classroom engagements. Our next step is to conduct the experiments and analyze participant responses. The study is designed to measure choices in a structured environment, allowing for a deeper understanding of economic reasoning in action.
Preliminary findings indicate a high success rate in participant recruitment, particularly when using confident, well-structured pitches in smaller classroom settings. While data analysis has not yet begun, we expect that the results will provide valuable insights into how people weigh opportunity costs and make economic decisions in real-time.
These findings have broad implications for behavioral economics and decision science. Understanding real-world economic behavior in a controlled setting can inform public policy, business strategies, and economic education, helping to shape better decision-making frameworks in various fields.

Keywords: Economics, Truth, Experiment, Lying, Choice

BIO

Hi, I'm Juliana Perez Rivera and I'm a freshman here at Florida State University. I'm from Miami, FL and I am pursuing a double major in Marketing and Advertising. I was initially drawn to this project because of it's emphasis on the media and the impacts of their portrayal. In the future, I hope to run my own marketing firm.

Paris Olympic Games & Framing Theory

Abstract

The opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games presents a case for analyzing media framing and its impact on public perception. This study investigates how U.S. and international media outlets framed the event, focusing on story valence (positive, neutral, or negative) and topical frames such as cultural pride, economic concerns, and political narratives. This research identifies key differences in how the event was portrayed across media landscapes. Findings suggest that while U.S. outlets largely emphasized spectacle and entertainment, international sources often incorporated critiques of costs, security, and political symbolism. The study highlights the role of media in shaping public discourse around global mega-events, contributing to broader discussions on the intersection of journalism, nationalism, and soft power. These insights offer a foundation for future research on Olympic media coverage and its implications for global audiences.

Keywords: media, sports, news

BIO

My name is Sophia Furer, and I’m originally from Brooklyn, New York. I’m a second-year honors student at Florida State University majoring in Finance. I plan to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and pursue law school afterward, with the goal of building a career in corporate law. I’m passionate about the intersection of business and legal strategy. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, doing Pilates, and spending time with friends.

Algorithmic Imaginaries

Abstract

Research shows that algorithms have become a vital part of individuals' daily lives in today’s digital age (Butcher, 2015). While social media serves as a convenient source of information—such as political campaign posts on Instagram, step-by-step tutorials on TikTok, and inspiration on Pinterest—users generally believe that algorithms effectively curate relevant content for their feeds (Oeldorf- Hirsch & Srinivasan, 2022). However, few studies examine how students actively engage with and influence algorithms beyond passive consumption.
Recently, studies on students’ algorithmic literacy and awareness have expanded. Previous studies have primarily focused on students' algorithmic awareness (Brodsky et al., 2020; Koenig, 2020) and users' perceptions of algorithms (Shin, 2021; Zarouali et al., 2021). However, further research is needed to explore how students design and manipulate their algorithms, ultimately enhancing their media literacy skills.
This study uses algorithmic imagination, defined as “the way in which people imagine, perceive and experience algorithms and what these imagination make possible” (Bitcher, 2019, p. 31), as a theoretical lens to conduct a systematic literature review of existing studies.

Keywords: Algorithmic Imaginaries Algorithm

BIO

My name is Margaret Cavallari and I am a first year at FSU majoring in behavioral neuroscience. I have always been interested in research and I am very excited to get the chance to present what I have learned at the Undergraduate Research Symposium. The next step in my research career will be to gain more lab experience either through volunteer work or directed individual studies.

The Language-Literacy Bridges Project: Developmental Language Disorders in Children​

Abstract

Practices, Effectiveness, and Research (SPEAR) Lab at Florida State University’s School of Communication Science and Disorders, investigates language learning in children through group studies with speech-language pathologists (SLPs). This research study aims to enhance understanding language development challenges, particularly in children with Developmental Language Disorders (DLD). Given the prevalence of DLD, with an estimated 7.58% of children affected, it is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders (McGregor, 2020). To help enhance educational results we are researching how SLP practices influence language intervention in reading outcomes within school-age children across the United States.​ Through focus group interviews, this research seeks to identify key themes among SLPs related to their professional perspectives and use of evidence-based practices (EBP), including discussion of perceived facilitators and barriers to support reading comprehension. Acknowledging the persistent challenges in reading comprehension and treatment effectiveness, this study seeks to refine intervention strategies and bridge literacy gaps in child education. The findings will contribute to advancing language-learning support and improving educational outcomes for children with DLD.​

Keywords: bridges language disorder

BIO

I am a sophomore double majoring in Psychology and Social Work. The Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program has allowed me to immerse myself in my research and has provided me with invaluable connections during my undergraduate career. I intend to continue down the path of the Alzheimer's research I conducted, as I feel it is a fascinating and growing area that will allow me to contribute to a research topic I am passionate about.

Evaluating Cognitive Deficits in 3xTg-AD Mice Using a Linear Reorientation Task

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, including impairments in spatial orientation. We observed impaired spatial orientation in genetically engineered 6-month-old 3xTg-AD mice on a hybrid (129x1/C57BL6) background. However, we required mice on a pure C57BL/6 background due to their more robust circadian rhythms. This study investigates cognitive deficits using a linear orientation task to assess spatial learning and memory. 3xTg-AD and C57BL/6 (wild-type) control mice were trained to navigate a linear track to an unmarked location. First, mice alternated back and forth on the track for a water reward in an enclosed start box. Then, they learned to stop in an unmarked reward zone during the outbound trajectory. Live tracking software automatically delivered a brain stimulation reward when mice stopped for a sufficient period. The track’s start position changed each trial, requiring mice to use distal cues for reorientation. We hypothesized that 6-month-old female 3xTg-AD C57BL/6 mice would show impaired task performance, indicating spatial reorientation deficits. Histological analysis confirmed medial forebrain bundle placement and assessed AD pathology. Immunohistochemical staining revealed amyloid-beta plaques and tau pathology in AD mice. Once sufficient data is collected, we will correlate pathology levels with behavioral impairments, expecting pathology density in the dorsal subiculum to correlate with task performance. These findings contribute to evidence supporting the use of spatial navigation tasks as a robust measure of cognitive decline in AD models, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets for early intervention.

Keywords: Alzheimers, Neuroscience, Spatial orientation

BIO

My name is Brantley Bellamy, I am a Sophomore majoring in Biology. I am a pre-med student and want to attend FSU's College of Medicine. My research is at the FSU Marine Biology lab and involves fish and other marine wildlife. When I am not doing school work, I enjoy fishing, working out, and spending time with my friends, family, and girlfriend.

Oxygen Supply Capacity of Atlantic Stingray (Hypanus sabinus) and Hardhead Catfish (Ariopsis felis) Across Temperature

Abstract

Temperature strongly influences physiological processes in ectotherms, and environmental shifts can alter an organism’s ability to derive energy and perform basic life functions, threatening loss of habitat and population success as conditions become physiologically unsustainable. This is particularly relevant for coastal species that dwell in the Northeastern Gulf of Mexico, among the fastest warming locations in the world.

Temperature is also known to alter the ability of organisms to supply oxygen to tissues in support of energy needs. Because oxygen is required for almost all life functions, from digestion to movement to reproduction, oxygen delivery is a key component of performance and survival of fishes in an ara of climate change. While oxygen supply is known to increase with temperature in ectotherms to support increased oxygen and energy demands at higher temperatures, failure to meet oxygen demands at a critical temperature has also been indicated as a primary limiting factor of thermal tolerance in several fish species. In addition, rising water temperatures worsen deoxygenation of ocean waters, threatening wildlife even further.

We studied the effects of temperature on oxygen supply in two species native to the Northeastern Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Stingray (Hypanus sabinus) and Hardhead Catfish (Ariopsis felis), both coastal, benthic-associated ectotherms in a region of high warming. Using energetic measurements and blood physiology we investigated temperature sensitivity of oxygen supply and one potential mechanism for the potential to increase oxygen delivery as temperatures rise, over a range of temperatures for each species.

Keywords: Marine Biology, Oceans, Fish.

BIO

My name is Jaycee Howard, and I'm from Tampa, Florida. I’m a freshman at Florida State University, majoring in English: Editing, Writing, and Media with a minor in Political Science. Writing has always been my passion, and I hope to pursue a career in journalism in the future. This project has allowed me to explore my interests in history and digital media, creating an engaging and educational narrative that deepens research on the Holocaust and intermarriage between Jews and Germans in Nazi Germany.

Documentary Filmmaking: Intermarried Families In Nazi Germany

Abstract

This research project aims to produce a documentary exploring the experiences of intermarried families in Nazi Germany, focusing on the hardships that these civilians had to overcome in order to survive. The documentary is conducted by a series of oral interviews with historians and scholars, including Julia Torrie and Mark Rosen, who break down the social and political dynamics of intermarriage under the Third Reich. It also shares the powerful story of survivor Margaret Graebert, who reflects on her experiences with intermarriage and the Holocaust. By combining personal narratives with historical analysis, the documentary will provide an in-depth exploration of the struggles faced by intermarried families, the policies enacted against them, and how civilians fought against the Nazi regime. This project seeks to contribute to Holocaust studies by highlighting resistance and survival, emphasizing the role of love and activism during a time of tragedy and loss.

Keywords: Intermarriage, Holocaust, Documentary

BIO

My name is Anastasia Milliman, and I am a first year IMS: Clinical Professions major on a pre-med track. At home I am a volunteer EMT and work as a Transportation Aid at my local hospital. I also earned my Girl Scout Gold Award last year which focused on community education for women's cardiovascular health. In the future I aspire to go to medical school and become a physician with a focus in Obstetrics and Gynecology. While I have a passion for women's healthcare, part of my inspiration for medicine stems from wanting to advocate for equality in healthcare. My work on this project and the advocacy for Alzheimer's and Dementia patients has furthered my passion for wanting to serve my community through medicine. I look forward to continuing to develop my skills in research through future projects and to make a meaningful impact.

Covid-19 Vaccination Disparities Between Gender and Income Level for ADRD Patients

Abstract

Alzheimer’s and Dementia-Related Disease (ADRD) patients are at increased risk for Covid-19 complications, making vaccination coverage critical. This study investigates how gender identity and income level influence COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and coverage among ADRD patients. Using data from the All of Us (AoU) Researcher Workbench, a retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted incorporating COVID-19 vaccine survey responses, social determinants of health, and electronic health records. A Chi-Square analysis revealed statistically significant data in vaccination coverage based on gender identity, with female-identifying individuals showing the highest coverage rates. Additionally, higher-income individuals (>$100K annually) demonstrated greater vaccine uptake and longer immunity rates in comparison to lower-income groups ($1-50K annually). These findings emphasize the need for targeted public health strategies to address vaccination hesitancy and improve accessibility for underrepresented populations.

Keywords: ADRD, Covid-19, Vaccination, Income, Gender

BIO

Hi! My name is Danielle Meyer, and I am a sophomore at Florida State University on a pre-PA track. I am majoring in Pre-Clinical Professions and minoring in Biology and Chemistry. I am currently involved in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, the FSU club gymnastics team, the Who We Play For organization, and the FL Beta chapter of Pi Beta Phi. My goal is to attend Physician Assistant school in hopes of specializing in oncology.

Exploring Intercultural Competence Through Internationalization-at-Home Efforts: Perspective of Domestic Graduate Students in Helping Professions​

Abstract

This study explores the impact internationalization-at-home (IaH) programs can have in amplifying intercultural competency (ICC) in domestic, graduate-level students within helping professions. The increasingly globalized world calls for multifaceted, culturally competent helping professionals who can engage with diverse clients to promote improved treatment outcomes. We modeled our study based on Deardorff's (2006) theoretical framework, which suggests cross-cultural interactions continuously boost ICC. In our study, an analysis of the experiences of 68 domestic graduate students that were enrolled in a semester-long cultural partner program was conducted using a qualitative methodology. Each domestic student was paired with one or two international graduate students and was encouraged to create meaningful cross-cultural interactions by participating in several activities together. Students then reflected on their experiences via surveys and open-ended questions. A thematic analysis of these responses revealed primary components that facilitated ICC development, as well as the elements that created challenges. According to findings, students grew their communication skills, cultural awareness, and increased their openness to different viewpoints. However, barriers to ICC development included language limitations, scheduling conflicts, and sense of cultural partners being uninterested in participating. Overall, the study’s findings highlighted the importance of mutual engagement in IaH programs. Future studies can utilize our results to craft additional research that minimizes ICC developmental barriers such as implementing engagement incentives or extending program length.

Keywords: Internationalization at Home, Intercultural Competency, Helping Professions

BIO

Layhan Mishra is a first-year computer science student from Olathe, Kansas. He is interested in research topics related to computer science, including, but not limited to, machine learning, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Layhan hopes to eventually work as a software engineer or pursue higher education following graduation.

Using Machine Learning to Recognize Attacks on Power Grids

Abstract

Many hackers perform cyberattacks on power grids to reduce their utility bills. This research was conducted to determine which machine-learning models are most effective in detecting such cyberattacks on power grids. Given a dataset from an Irish power company with information on several users’ power usage and whether they artificially reduced their utility bills, multiple machine-learning models were trained on a large portion of the dataset and then tested on a smaller portion. The models were then evaluated on 4 metrics: accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. Because of the variety of statistics evaluated and the variety of machine learning models, there is no clear-cut best-performing machine learning model. However, taking all data into account, there were three models that performed the best: the random forest, decision tree and CNN. Out of these three, the random forest performed the best consistently across all metrics. However, it should be said that the decision tree and CNN also detected attacks at a very high rate and could be better than the random forest for different instances of this scenario (different power companies, cities, and power grids). For this particular scenario, any of these three could realistically be used to detect cyberattacks on power grids with the random forest classifier being the best.

Keywords: Machine learning, power grids

BIO

My name is Lily Ballard and I am a pre-med student at Florida State University, originally from Jacksonville, Florida, with a keen interest in research related to healthcare disparities and the well-being of caregivers. Currently, my research examines the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, and its connection to quality of life and burnout in parents of children with special healthcare needs. This project seeks to understand how chronic stress and caregiving responsibilities contribute to physical and emotional strain and potential biomarkers of stress-related health conditions.

Through my research, I aim to explore how systemic inflammation, as indicated by CRP levels, correlates with the mental and physical health challenges faced by these parents. This study holds the potential to inform interventions that address caregiver burnout and improve both their quality of life and overall health.

At FSU, I have gained valuable experience in research methodologies, data analysis, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills complement my goal of pursuing a career in medicine, where I hope to integrate research with clinical practice to enhance patient care. I am passionate about advocating for vulnerable populations and making a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare.

The Impact of C-Reactive Proteins on Quality of Life and Burnout in Parental Caregivers of Children with Special Healthcare Needs

Abstract

Parents of children with special healthcare needs are at higher risk for developing chronic illness and decreased quality of life (QOL) due to caregiving burdens demanded of them. Hence the primary purpose of the study is to explore C-reactive protein (CRP) presentation in caregivers of children with special healthcare needs compared to parents of typically developing children. Moreover, we aim to examine the relationship between CRP, caregiver burnout, and quality of life. A longitudinal study was conducted over a three-year period with parents of typically developing children (n=60), non-complex chronic disease (n=28), and complex chronic disease (n=32). Measures of C-reactive protein samples were collected via serum samples, and participants completed the Shirom-Melamed Burnout Measure (SMBM) and Quality-of-Life Scale. We predict that parents of children with more complex healthcare needs will present with higher levels of CRP than parents of children without special healthcare needs. We also hypothesize that levels of burnout will be higher, and QOL will be lower in parents of children with more medically complex conditions. Statistical analysis will be utilized to determine the results. High levels of burnout and low QOL in parents of children with special healthcare needs can negatively impact caregivers’ psychological well-being and lead to an increased risk for onset of disease, and inflammatory dysregulation. Future studies should further dive into CRP and its implications for chronic diseases.

Keywords: children, parents, proteins

BIO

Katelyn Cristaldi is an exercise physiology student from Port St. Lucie, Florida. She is part of the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), working on a project analyzing schizophrenia's effects on spatial navigation skills. In addition to UROP, Katelyn volunteers at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare's (TMH) ChildCare Center, is a part of TMH's mobility team, and is a youth soccer coach. Once she completes her undergraduate degree, Katelyn plans to attend medical school.

Spacial Navigation and Schizophrenia

Abstract

There have been multiple studies on spatial navigation skills regarding schizophrenia. Our research deals with analyzing current data to see if there is a trend in schizophrenia’s effect on spatial navigation skills. Spatial navigation skills are affected by many neurological disorders. Our research team has analyzed the effect on other neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's. If a relationship is found, our research could be critical in treatment and diagnosis. Our project is using Covidence for screening and data extraction. When I started on the project, our team was at the stage of finding and scanning through multiple literature reviews. We are past the literature review stage and are now in the extraction phase. Currently, I am going through the literature reviews our team is using and coding for demographics. We are predicting our results will show a correlation between schizophrenic patients and impaired spatial navigation skills. So far, the literature I have read through and coded for has shown deficits in the spatial navigation skills tested for. We will know more once we are done with the extraction phase of our project. This research is important because it will provide a better understanding of the cognitive deficits associated with this disorder. Additionally, it could lead to better treatments and interventions. This research could also help in diagnosing schizophrenic patients.

Keywords: spatial navigation, schizophrenia, meta-analysis

BIO

I aspire to advocate for underrepresented communities as a human rights attorney. As an Associate’s degree holder and International Affairs major, I pursue opportunities to learn about global communities. My service as an OMNI Institute research mentee offered me a new perspective on the variance of a single racial group’s experience worldwide as I engaged in an intergenerational, international story circle and conducted literature review on Black wellness. I became certified in CITI Human Subjects Research, developed an autoethnographic research paper, and presented at the 2025 FURC and International Association of Autoethnography and Narrative Inquiry Conferences. As a prison reform legal intern at the James V. Cook and Elizabeth Buchanan Law Firms, I learned that injustice is often disguised within complex policies that complicate self-advocacy efforts. Analyzing abuses documented within legal discovery reaffirmed my passion for defending vulnerable populations and making legal systems more navigable as a pathway to social change. I prioritize youth development as the NRECA’s 2023 National YLC runner-up spokesperson and advocate and a team leader within my church’s youth ministry. As an Intervarsity leader, Community Ambassador, and Resident’s Assistant, I will continue promoting lasting impact through law and empowering my peers through personal community investment.

Discovering SoulClap: An Intergenerational Auto-Ethnographic Discussion on Black Joy, Health, and Wellness

Abstract

The OMNI Institute prioritizes Black Joy as a non-medical factor of public health, countering trauma-based narratives typically associated within the community. This research project extends our investigation into Black women’s health through our work on the OMNI Institute’s latest project, “SoulClap Cafe: A Black Joy Journal.” Contributing to the release of the inaugural edition’s theme, “Black Joy and Nature,” we participated in the interviews of two Black women from Bristol, U.K. with Dr. Omni and intergenerational researcher Michelle Gunn in three segments, themed “Joy,” “Nature and Spirituality,” and “Growth, Lessons, and Self-Care.” We identified common themes within the interviewees’ experiences through embodied knowing and endarkened narrative inquiry, integrating intuition and sensory awareness into the traditional analytical research process. As a team, we followed Dr. Omni’s Kujima Theory of Collective Self-Motivation, featuring "kujichagulia" (self-determination), "ku’umba" (creativity), and "ujima" (collective work and responsibility). We investigated the broad influence of these themes on Black women’s sense of identity and collective wellness through literature reviews. We identified key theories like Alice Walker's and Dr. Melanie Harris’ eco-womanism. Considering our personal connections to the research as young Black women, we ultimately challenge the modern characterization of the Black woman and argue for the normalization of self-care, agency, religion, and sources of wellness found to intersect with Black women’s experiences in nature.

Keywords: Black Women, Wellness, Public Health