Expression, purification, and initial kinetic characterization of recombinant tetrahydrodipicolinate N-succinyltransferase (DapD) from Serratia marcescens

Effect of Acorn Size and Weevil Infestation on Oak Acorn Germination

Presenter(s): Ansley Peters, Keanu McDaniel, Sadie HuYoung
Mentor(s): Malia Fincher
Session: 1
Poster #: A5 

Abstract: Oak trees play a significant role in the ecosystems within Alabama and the Eastern United States because they serve as a habitat for species of birds and squirrels and a production site for acorns which serve as an important food source. However, Oak acorn reproduction is threatened by weevil infestation. Acorn weevils (Curculio ssp.) are small insects that lay their eggs inside acorns. When they hatch, the larva (or larvae) eat the fruit of the nut (cotyledon) for sustenance. Once they have completed this stage of development, they chew a small hole through the shell and emerge out of it. These weevils infest a high percentage of acorns and pose a threat to their germination rates. This has been reflected in the rates of forest growth in a wide variety of ecosystems. Some research studies have suggested that acorn size may affect rates of germination, however, this relationship is unclear. For our study, we will be testing our hypothesis that larger acorns will have a higher probability of germinating after having been infested by weevils. Our reasoning is that larger acorns will have more cotyledon, so it is likely that a weevil will not eat the entire fruit of the acorn, and it will still have the ability to germinate. We also predict that smaller acorns will be less likely to germinate after weevil infestation. In the fall of 2022, we collected over 8000 acorns from 6 different Oak species and 6 different sites around the Birmingham area. This spring (2023), we measured the acorns’ length, height, width, and mass and recorded the presence of weevil emergence holes and whether or not they had germinated. We planted the acorns that had not yet germinated and will follow up to record which ones germinated for our final research. Our data collection is still in progress, so we do not have any conclusions, but this will be completed before the Research Colloquia.

Can Dual-Energy X-ray Absorption be used as a tool to predict  Fish Health and Body Composition

Presenter(s): Christopher Holbrook, Addie Hunter
Mentor(s): Anthony Overton, Christopher Ballmann
Session: 1
Poster #: B5 

Abstract: Fisheries Scientist use a broad range of morphological, biochemical and physiological metrics to determine the health and nutritional condition of fishes. Many of these currently-used methods are very invasive and require the animal to be sacrificed. We investigated whether dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) could be used to determine the body composition of fishes. DXA may offer a noninvasive approach which we used to determine health and nutritional condition of fishes. We estimated the lean tissue mass (LTM), fat mass (FM), and bone mineral content (BMC) in Spanish Mackerel Scomberomorus sp. , Talipia Oreochromis sp, and Whiting Merlangius sp., LTM, FM, and BMC were all strongly correlated with each other (P<0.001). LTM was significantly higher in Whiting while the BMC in Mackeral was significantly lower than all other species. The next step of our project is to validate the DXA estimates with the current tradition methods used by Fisheries Scientists.

Targeting Neprilysin in a pre-clinical model of Alzheimer’s disease

Presenter(s): Katie Fella
Mentor(s): Patty Jumbo
Session: 1
Poster #: C5 

Abstract: Entresto®, a combination drug including the angiotensin-receptor blocker valsartan, and the neprilysin (NEP) inhibitor sacubitril, has been recently approved for the treatment of congestive heart failure. NEP is the dominant degrading enzyme of amyloid beta (Aß). Aß deposition in the brain is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Whether NEP inhibitors like sacubitril increase AD risk remains unanswered. Our primary purpose was to determine whether NEP inhibition worsens locomotion deficits in a pre-clinical model of AD. First, we used a pharmacologic approach in a fly AD model with marked locomotion and memory deficits like humans. Male flies were randomized to receive 0, 50 or 200uM sacubitril for 14 days. Locomotion was assessed via a negative geotaxis assay. Fly cohorts were tapped to the bottom of a vial. The number of flies passing an 8-centimeter mark in 10 seconds was recorded. Second, we assessed locomotion in flies with downregulated Nep1 expression, the fly equivalent of human NEP, in neurons. Locomotion was tested at 7, 14, 21 and 30 days of treatment via a negative geotaxis assay. AD males were significantly movement impaired compared to controls (0.20±0.03 vs. 0.48±0.03, p<0.0001). Sacubitril-treated males moved slower than those untreated, independent of genotype. Notably, 200uM sacubitril dramatically decreased locomotion (0.17±0.04) compared to 0 (0.43±0.03; p<0.0001) and 50uM (0.43±0.03; p<0.0001). Climbing speed in Nep1 mutant flies, regardless of sex, declined at 7 days compared to controls (0.70±0.02 vs. 0.82±0.03, p=0.0038). However, loss of Nep1 in 21- (0.64±0.04 vs. 0.41±0.04, p=0.0013) and 30-days old males (0.15±0.02 vs. 0.003±0.003, p<0.0001) but not females conferred locomotion advantages. Our findings suggest that 50uM sacubitril is safe since it elicited no negative behavioral responses in our AD model. Our genetic studies suggest that NEP inhibition with sacubitril might offer sex-specific therapeutic benefits in AD later in life.

Acorn Weevils Do Not Vary In Size From Red Oak to White Oak Sections

Presenter(s): Joseph Kelly
Mentor(s): Malia Fincher
Session: 1
Poster #: D5 

Abstract: Acorn weevils have a parasitic relationship with Quercus Oak species, where the weevil larvae feeds on the contents of the developing acorn. The role of size in influencing host choice by weevils and weevil growth is not clear in the literature, with some studies showing that weevils select and perform better in larger acorns, while others demonstrate that weevils do not show any preference based on acorn size. In this experiment, we collected acorns from six different Oak species across six different sites in Birmingham, Alabama and measured weevil mass and average acorn mass, to test the hypothesis that larger weevils would be associated with larger acorn sizes. Although there is variation in acorn size and weevil mass among the six different Oak species, this experiment ultimately found no correlation between acorn size and weevil larvae mass. Physical and chemical defense mechanisms such as tannin/lipid content and masting rate could influence larval size.

How Human Impact Affects Weevil Infestation and Acorn Germination

Presenter(s): Laura Watford, JP Theriot, Bailee Walker, Logan Anthony
Mentor(s): Malia Fincher
Session: 1
Poster #: F3

Abstract: Oak trees play an important role in forests by providing food for wildlife and counteracting airborne pollutants. However, the majority of oak forests in the eastern United States are infested with acorn weevils (Curculio spp). These weevils lay their eggs in acorns, and once the larvae hatch, they consume the nutrients the acorn needs to survive and then eat their way out, leaving an emergence hole. Previous research has shown that infested acorns are much less likely to germinate. However, very little research has been done on how human impact affects infestation and germination rates. For example, urbanization affects temperature and light availability, which play huge roles in both weevil and acorn survival. In our study, we gathered 8000 acorns from six different sites across the Birmingham area and measured the volume and mass of approximately 2000 randomized samples of these acorns. We are now attempting to germinate them in a controlled greenhouse experiment. We expect to find higher infestation and lower germination in acorns from sites that experience higher human impact. Because human impact is a variable that forest managers can control, our research could play a major role in preventing the decline of oak forests in the eastern United States. 

Weevil Infestation is Higher in Moss Rock Due to Lower Acorn Production

Presenter(s): Mia Davis, Kacey Ferguson, Audrey Bates
Mentor(s): Malia Fincher
Session: 1
Poster #: H3

Abstract: Acorn weevils (Curculio spp) are small larvae that negatively affect various oak species populations and their acorn production. Weevils invade growing acorns, leading to internal acorn damage and an inability for these acorns to germinate in the future. Weevils enter the acorn and eat the cotyledon, which is where nutrients are stored for the growing plant embryo. This affects acorn germination and seedling growth. Literature from multiple continents shows that weevil infestation varies substantially from place to place. Based on preliminary information, we understand that Moss Rock Preserve, an area in Birmingham, Alabama, has typically produced fewer acorns than 5 other Birmingham locations: Homewood Forest Preserve, Oak Mountain State Park, Red Mountain State Park, Samford University, and Wildwood Preserve. We hypothesize that Moss Rock has a higher weevil infestation due to low acorn production. We are conducting our study with data from 6 different oak species from varying locations in the Birmingham area. We measured the volume, mass, and number of weevil emergence holes on roughly 3,000 acorns from these oak species. Our research is still underway as we wait for germination to occur. Research will be fully conducted before April 21. This information can assist in predicting weevil infestation in a given area. If acorn production indicates weevil infestation, this could help forest managers predict acorn germination in a given area.

The Greater Number of Weevils, The Lower Probability of Germination

Presenter(s): Shelby Crowell, Lindsay Cunningham
Mentor(s): Malia Fincher
Session: 1
Poster #: J2 

Abstract: Oak trees are a major food source for rodents, deer, insects, and fungi. One major seed predator of the oak acorn is the acorn weevil, which is a small beetle that uses the cotyledons of an acorn as food for its larvae. Acorn weevils drill holes into the acorn, lay their eggs, and leave the eggs to hatch into larvae. These larvae eat the inside of the acorn as they grow, thus damaging the acorn internally. This damage to the cotyledons, where the nutrients for the growing embryo are stored, results in a smaller food source for the embryo of the acorn, which could result in the death of the embryo, or a lack of germination. There is no consensus in scientific literature regarding the percent of successful germination in weevil infested acorns, with estimates of the impact of infestation varying widely among species and studies. Our hypothesis is novel because we are not focusing on if acorns with weevil damage will germinate, but how the number of weevils in each acorn affects acorn germination. Many studies do not include a measure of the number of weevil larvae infesting each acorn, although up to 6 or more larvae can infest a single acorn. In order to examine the relationship between the number of weevils and acorn germination, we are taking measurements of 2000 random acorns from three random trees before and after planting to see whether or not they germinate. We measure the length, width, depth, weight, and number of weevil emergence holes.  Acorns are being germinated in a greenhouse experiment, to determine germination success, although data are still being collected.  We predict that the more weevils found in an acorn the less likely they are to germinate.

Acquisition and Subsequent Rapid Loss of Antibiotic Resistance in a Probiotic

Presenter(s): Olivia Love, Nicholas Hammond
Mentor(s): Drew Hataway, Brad Bennett
Session: 2
Poster #: A1 

Abstract: Probiotics, live microbes in certain foods such as yogurts, interact in a mutualistic way with humans. They provide a myriad of benefits including barrier protection against pathogens. Little is known of the effects associated with exposure of probiotics to sublethal concentrations of commonly prescribed antibiotics. We performed an adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) experiment to determine if the fitness of the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum is altered by exposure to sublethal concentrations of doxycycline. Replicate cultures of L. plantarum were continuously grown for 1000 generations (~5 months) in media containing sub-lethal antibiotic at either 0.1X MIC or a significantly lower environmental concentration based on a global average of surface water values. Fitness tests were periodically performed to examine if the inhibition profile changed over time as this could establish acquisition of resistance. An exponential decay model was fit to the data to determine precise inhibition values. Cultures exposed to higher sub-lethal antibiotic levels (0.1X initial MIC) showed a modest increase (~4-fold) in the inhibitory concentration values, especially IC50. To investigate whether resistance is reversible, we continued culturing of resistant strains with the selection pressure removed (no doxycycline) to 1200 generations. Resistance was lost rapidly, in ~100 generations, with IC50 at 1200 generations being essentially the same between experimental and control cultures. This suggests that resistance, once acquired, is not fixed; the mechanism by which resistance is acquired and subsequently lost is under investigation. This result could have implications for antibiotic/probiotic synergy treatments and microbial evolution.

Acorn Germination Success: Impacts of Fall vs. Spring Germination and Weevil Infestation Rates

Presenter(s): Kaylee Head, Shaniya Jacobs-Lanier, Amanda Williams
Mentor(s): Malia Fincher
Session: 2
Poster #: A6

Abstract: Weevils (Curculio spp.), one of the primary predators of acorns, create holes in the pericarp to lay eggs and consume the embryo during development. Both acorn germination and weevil infestation vary widely depending on the season and location that different oak species germinate. One variable that may impact germination and infestation is the season in which acorns germinate. There are two major species of oak, red and white, that germinate in the fall and the spring. However, most previous studies focus on a singular species of oak tree or weevil. We want to identify a variable that may be predictive of germination success by studying  6 different species of oak trees across 6 sites in Birmingham, AL. We predict that fall germination is the missing component as fall germinating acorns endure a shorter acorn weevil predation period. We tested our hypothesis that the fall-germinating oak species will have lower weevil infestation rates which lead to higher germination success than the three spring-germinating species. We account for the extent of acorn weevil infestation by determining the number of weevil holes in each acorn, in addition to measuring each acorn’s mass, volume, and whether or not it has germinated. Acorns that have not yet germinated are being germinated in a controlled greenhouse environment. Data collection is still underway and will be completed by April 2023. In order to combat the adverse effects of infestation of oak tree populations, planting and sustaining species that germinate in the fall will benefit the ecosystem.

An Analysis of Cognitive Aging in Drosophila melanogaster

Presenter(s): Julia Spruiell, Aubrey Pridemore
Mentor(s): Katelynn Corder
Session: 2
Poster #: B6

Abstract: By 2050, the population of Americans over the age of 65 is projected to double. While diagnoses of dementia and mild cognitive impairment are relatively common, more subtle, normal age-related cognitive impairment may affect daily living in the aging population. It is important to understand this process not only to improve the daily lives of those affected, but to also help distinguish these impairments from disease states. These age-related changes in cognition are not unique to humans. To gain a better understanding of this process, we seek to develop a behavioral profile model in the wild-type fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. Given that aging is generally characterized by impaired learning and memory in addition to motor deficits, we use both negative geotaxis assay and the aversive phototaxis suppression assay to assess changes in cognitive behavior across the lifespan with the ultimate goal of creating a comprehensive behavioral profile across the Drosophila lifespan to be used to test for factors affecting various aspects of cognitive aging.

Size Doesn’t (or Does) Matter - A Deep Dive on the Germination of Quercus Acorns in Light of Weevil Infestation

Presenter(s): Anthony Alvarez, Noah Stone, Ryan Cruz
Mentor(s): Malia Fincher
Session: 2
Poster #: C2 

Abstract: Acorn weevils (Curculio SSP) are a species of beetle larvae laid in the acorns of oak species. As they grow, the larvae of the oak weevil feed on the inside of the acorn, possibly causing damage to the embryo or consuming the entire seed, making it unable to germinate and thus robbing its viability. As it stands, scientific literature and the biological community is conflicted as to whether or not weevil infestation is truly a problem for the reproduction of Oak species. There are a plethora of sources on both sides of the argument. However, they only account for one to two species of oak at a time. We aim to solve this controversy once and for all not only by studying a far more diverse sample of oak trees than ever before, but also by accounting for the varying sizes of acorns. We hypothesized that weevil infestation decreases the probability of germination across all six different species of oak. We have gathered data on the acorns of six different species of oak (Black Oak, Northern Red Oak, Southern Red Oak, White Oak, Chestnut Oak, and Post Oak) across six locations (Oak Mountain State Park, Red Mountain Park, Samford University, Wildwood Preserve, Moss Rock Preserve, and Homewood Forest Preserve). A sample size of roughly 2600 acorns were collected in the fall of 2022 and have been preserved in plastic bags, and we have organized them by their specific tree of origin, species, and harvest date. We are observing the germination of these six different species and measuring how weevil infestation affects acorns of different sizes and whether that increases or decreases the probability of successful germination. The results we come to find will have large implications on previous studies which may contrast our findings, changing the way we respond to weevil populations in the future. As we continue to gather data on size, infestation, and germination, we hope our findings can serve the broader scientific community to preserve oak forests across the world.

Three Year Survey of Gonadosomatic Index for Black Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) from Lake Purdy, Alabama

Presenter(s): Shelby Kuck
Mentor(s): Anthony Overton
Session: 2
Poster #: D5

Abstract: Black Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) are popular sportfish in the southern United States; therefore, understanding the species’ reproductive biology and changes in recruitment potential year to year may be informative for management practices and sustaining fish populations. Black Crappie were collected between January and April in 2020, 2021, and 2022 from Lake Purdy, Alabama to estimate length and age relationships with gonadosomatic index (GSI) of female crappie. Across the three years, 153 female Black Crappie were captured (average TL= 254.6 mm ± 85.3). We measured total length, total weight, and gonad weight, while age was determined by analyzing otolith rings. GSI was calculated from the gonad weight as a percentage of the total weight. GSI ranged from 1.4 to 24 with an average of 7.3 ± 6.6. While no strongly supported single variable, linear relationship could be found between GSI and age or length, GSI increased on average by 64.7% from 2020 to 2021 (p < 0.00) and decreased by 28.8% from 2021 to 2022 (p < 0.02). These patterns could be attributed to the disparity of specimens collected each year. Further investigation should be made to better understand the seasonal/temporal change in GSI across the four-month capture season.

 

Leaf variation in maples: Two cryptic varieties of Acer saccharum

Presenter(s): Madelyn Thompson
Mentor(s): Lawrence Davenport
Session: 2
Poster #: D6

Abstract: Acer saccharum var. schneckii Rehder is a southern to midwestern variety of sugar maple that overlaps in range with northern sugar maple, A. saccharum var. saccharum Marshall. However, the characteristics used to distinguish between the two varieties are neither well defined nor consistent in the literature. The goal of this research is to determine if there are any distinctions in leaf characteristics between the two varieties that can aid in identification of specimens in the field. Based on historical accounts of var. schneckii, it differs from var. saccharum by having more pubescent petioles, deeper leaf sinuses, and flatter basal lobes of the leaves. With these characteristics in mind, we tested leaf shape in both an herbarium sample and a field sample using a series of 18 leaf landmarks to measure the basal lobes and sinus depths. The herbarium sample consisted of 120 herbarium specimen images of var. saccharum and var. schneckii from the herbarium database SEINet, chosen from counties where both taxa occur. The field sample included a total of 65 specimens of both taxa which were collected at Paint Rock Forest Research Center in Jackson County, Alabama. In addition to leaf shape, we quantified pubescence of the petioles, veins, and laminae for the Paint Rock specimens. We found that the taxa are not distinct in leaf shape in either sample, contrary to our expectations, but pubescence can be used to distinguish them in the Alabama population. Learning what distinguishes var. schneckii from other taxa is the first step in learning more about this taxon and understanding the diversity within the sugar maple group.

The Relationship Between Smaller Acorn Size and Increased Weevil Infestation Rates

Presenter(s): Frances Inabnet, Tate Taylor
Mentor(s): Malia Fincher
Session: 2
Poster #: F2 

Abstract: Oak trees and acorns play a huge role in the success of forests and the success of much wildlife. The main seed predators in oak acorns are weevils, which are members of the beetle family whose larvae feed on the contents of acorns before emerging through a small exit hole. Oak reproductive success is also strongly impacted by seed predators such as oak weevils. Infestation rates clearly vary among species and sites, and acorn size may play a role in predicting acorn infestation. However, some studies found evidence supporting higher infestation rates in larger acorns and others found higher infestation rates in smaller acorns. One research group discovered that larger acorns were less prone to weevil infestation and cotyledon consumption from larvae. Another study found that larger acorns experienced higher rates of weevil infestation due to larger acorns having a larger volume threshold. As a response to these findings, we are testing this controversy from 5 Birmingham locations: Homewood Forest Preserve, Oak Mountain State Park, Red Mountain State Park, Samford University, and Wildwood Preserve. During our study we recorded the bag number, tree number, and date of acorn collection. We took measurements regarding the length, width, depth, and number of weevil holes for 400 acorns. Lastly, we determined if the acorns had germinated, if they would be unable to germinate, or if they had potential to germinate. We have not finished collecting our data yet, however, by later April we will have all our data after the acorns germinate on the poster.

Data Analytics in Graduate Careers

Toward the development of bioadhesion-resistant films for the chemical attachment of enzymes to gold surfaces using oligo(ethylene glycol)-based self-assembled monolayers

Presenter(s): Lee Ann Ashworth, William Lawrence II, Alex Tislow, Caroline Tapscott
Mentor(s): Brian W. Gregory
Session: 1
Poster #: E2 

Abstract: The attachment of proteins and enzymes to surfaces has been of significant interest in applications ranging from industrial catalysis to biosensors and biofuel cells. Covalent binding between the biomolecule and specific surface functional groups has generally been preferred over other types of nonspecific interactions. Such approaches not only tend to improve biomolecular stability and retention on the surface, but also can be engineered so that a preferred orientation of the biomolecule occurs upon binding. Our research has focused on designing surfaces that can be used for the covalent binding of enzymes while simultaneously preventing uncontrolled adhesion (nonspecific adsorption). The latter can lead to a loss of enzyme functionality due to changes in molecular conformation or shape upon adsorption. In this regard, oligo(ethylene glycol) (OEG)-based self-assembled monolayer (SAM) films on metal and dielectric surfaces have been shown to prevent nonspecific adsorption of proteins and enzymes, leading to their easy removal by rinsing with solvent. The studies described here focus on the formation of OEG SAMs on gold that could be employed for the covalent immobilization of enzymes. The precursors are first synthesized in solution from two reagents: 11-mercapto-undecylamine (MUAM) and a bifunctional OEG precursor (R-(EG)n-R’), where n = 5-10 EG units, R = N-hydroxysuccinimidyl ester (NHS), and R’ = NHS, maleimide, azide, or methoxy functional group. The structure, organization, and composition of our OEG SAMs are being explored using reflection-absorption infrared spectroscopy (RAIRS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Experimental data indicate the formation of compact, highly organized monolayer films where the OEG portion adopts a helical conformation for n = 6 EG units, consistent with previous literature results. Information on OEG SAM film structure and organization as evidenced by the RAIRS and XPS data will be presented and discussed.

Ni-Catalyzed Indenone Synthesis: New Products Provided Through Mechanistic Analysis

Presenter(s): Lydia Moore
Mentor(s): Dale Wilger
Session: 2
Poster #: B8 

Abstract: Indenone structures are present in a wide variety of biologically active natural products and synthetic compounds. As a result, a wide variety of transition-metal-catalyzed methods have been developed to synthesize indenones, including Pd, Co, and Rh catalysts. Despite 30 years of progress, certain key indenones remain challenging or impossible to synthesize in a direct and practical manner. For example, the synthesis of alkyl-substituted and silyl-substituted indenones has remained limited. Furthermore, reactions that do successfully synthesize these compounds in adequate chemical yields often suffer from impractically low regioselectivity. This refers to the location of the substituted groups on the molecule and is a reaction parameter that must be adequately controlled for the synthesis of any pharmacologically active species. Our group has developed a Ni-catalyzed indenone synthesis reaction that provides alkyl-substituted and silyl-substituted indenones with exceptionally high yields under convenient conditions. In most cases the reaction regioselectivity is also predictably high. Intense mechanistic analyses were critical for the development of this reaction. In particular, our group has provided a meaningful physical model for the factors that control alkyne migratory insertion, the regioselectivity-determining step within these reactions. The insights gained through these studies should aid in the development of other useful transition-metal-catalyzed reactions, especially since alkyne migratory insertion is regioselectivity determining in numerous cases.

Investigating the activity of cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)

Presenter(s): Elizabeth R. Flood, Lydia A. Hubbard, Parker A. Tamucci, Eleanor J. Todd
Mentor(s): Molly Lockart
Session: 2
Poster #: C8 

Abstract: Cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS) is an enzyme that is part of the innate immune response in humans. cGAS binds double-stranded DNA in the cytosol, which can be present for a number of reasons, including infection by viral and bacterial pathogens, DNA damage, or tumor formation. Upon binding DNA, cGAS produces 2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), a molecule that goes on to initiate an immune response. While the importance of cGAS is widely recognized, there are still many open questions regarding its structure and activity. For example, Mg2+ is typically the catalytic cofactor for cGAS, but Mn2+ also activates the enzyme, increases its sensitivity to DNA, and leads to off-pathway product formation. While the role of Mn2+ in the human immune system is not well understood, Mn2+ has been shown in mice to be released into the cytosol as an innate response to viral infections. This work is focused on generating active cGAS and probing its activity as a function of Mg2+ and Mn2+ in order to understand how Mn2+ modulates cGAS activity. A more in-depth understanding of how Mn2+ activates cGAS will provide new insight into cGAS-mediated antiviral responses and will also help elucidate the role of Mn2+ in the human immune response.

The Use of Computation in Phonetics and Dialect Detection in Spanish

Presenter(s): Bailey Holland
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 1
Poster #: A1 

Abstract: The nature of this project is to research the possibility of using computation to aid in the identification of specifically Spanish dialects by using a software called Praat, which analyzes audio files, and R to analyze the data of sound waves that are output by Praat. In order to test the software, a phrase was created that hit many of the key differences between Spanish dialects through meetings with multiple professors in both foreign languages and speech pathology that was recorded by a small sample of native Spanish speakers (all women) born in three different countries outside the United States. One of the data types that is returned by Praat is the pitch and intensity over the time period of the audio file. This project used pitch data over the length of every audio file that was returned by Praat and with the help of R, made graphs to visually compare them in hopes of finding discernible patterns between them that could be used in future computation. No patterns have been found yet, but research is going to continue. In the future, a bigger sample of people would be used and include both genders, a consistent age range, and more countries represented in order to have better accuracy and to be able to have more definitive answers. Praat was a good software, but it did not fit the needs of the project since the data returned varied by person. Ideally, the software would have the ability to transcribe the audio into the International Phonetic Alphabet so that it would be much more accurate than analyzing other data.

The Shift to Streaming: How Covid-19 Elevated the Television Industry

Presenter(s): Merritt Cahoon
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 1
Poster #: B2 

Abstract: It is no secret that the distribution of movies and television has drastically changed over the past five years. Netflix is the most extensive streaming services in the world and has been around since 2011, but 2018 is when streaming services took the television industry by storm. While streaming makes television more accessible and portable for the viewer, streaming also allows for more platforms for stories to be told. Since 2018 there has been a steady incline in the number of streaming services available. With more people switching to streaming televisions like Roku instead of cable, there is concern that network television is on the brink of extinction. To determine whether commercial television has become less successful with the surge of streaming, I analyzed the number of shows being renewed and canceled and the success rate of both commercial and streaming television. I collected data from Rotten Tomatoes’ database of every show renewed and canceled from 2018 through 2022. Along with each title of the show, I recorded the fate, the outlet it premieres on, and whether it primarily airs on streaming or commercial television. Prior research has analyzed why individual shows are cancelled, but my research analyzes the success of each outlet. Due to Covid-19 occurring in the middle of my data frame, I also looked for possible effects of the entire world being forced indoors for several months. With less access to movie theatres and the outside world, viewers are forced to television and streaming movies. Initially, I hypothesized that the effects of Covid-19 negatively impacted the television industry and the number of shows obtaining renewal. Yet, even with the halting of hundreds of productions, the success and number of shows released post-2020 has dramatically increased. This paper analyzes and graphs the success of television networks and streaming services over the past five years while also identifying the shift to streaming and the effects of that shift.

Development of a Digital Archive for Booker T. Washington

Presenter(s): Corey McDaniels
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 1
Poster #: C4 

Abstract: The field of Digital Humanities lies at the intersection of many disciplines, including literature, history, and computer science. Among the most salient projects in this field is the "George Elliot Archive". Created by Auburn Professor of English Beverley Rilett and her team of consultants, contributors, and research assistants, the Archive was launched in 2019 and comprises an extensive digital resource for anyone interested in studying Victorian author George Elliot. Included in the Archive are (1) all published writings of Elliot, which are searchable and downloadable; (2) more than 1000 public domain commentaries on Elliot, including reviews of her work, biographical studies, and newspaper articles; (3) interactive data features, including a 60,000-word interactive chronology and several interactive maps of her travels; (4) her correspondences, including the 894 letters published by John Cross in 1885 and her letters to Elma Stuart published by her son in 1909; (5) image gallery, which includes a complete collection of portraits of Elliot that were created during her lifetime; (6) online repository of scholarly works about Elliot. The purpose of my project is to begin the process of creating a similar digital archive of Booker T. Washington. While there exist several archives of Washington, none have featured a cohesive timeline of his works. Further, his manuscripts stored on archive.org merely allow the reader to manually peruse his works without the ability to search easily all of his writings. My findings show how it is possible to use free software to implement all steps necessary to create a dynamic archive with many of the robust features of the George Elliot Archive, and I highlight the challenges and limitations of such an approach.

BTP: Birmingham Tech Pipeline

Presenter(s): JaKia Hood
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 1
Poster #: D4 

Abstract: The technology and computer science community in Birmingham is struggling right now as several educators and employers have noticed a lack of "tech" talent in recent years. The goal of this project, therefore, is to understand what is contributing to this lack of talent. Specifically, I aim to answer the following questions: (1) what is being done to create a pipeline from primary education into the technology workforce? (2) what issues are hindering the effectiveness of this pipeline? To answer these questions, I have interviewed several educators and students from both K-12 and higher education institutions. My findings show that organizations such as TechBirmingham, Teals, and Birmingham Business Alliance have been making efforts to address the disparities within Birmingham's technology community for several years, and I will describe these efforts in my presentation. My findings also show that three of the most significant obstacles to technology education are funding, retention, and lack of opportunity. For example, while funding for technology hardware education in K-12 schools is being provided, no money is being given to educate teachers or to hire personnel to manage the hardware. Therefore, the technology that has been provided is either used minimally or not at all.

Deprecation of Vulnerable Encryption Standards

Presenter(s): Adonis Ojendyk
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 1
Poster #: F2 

Abstract: The Data Encryption Standard (DES) algorithm has a long history in cryptography and has been used in everything from securing government documents to furthering education in the field of cybersecurity. Unfortunately, DES is no longer a secure algorithm, for several reasons. For example, it has a very short key length; the short length makes DES an easy algorithm to decrypt, thus leaving the encrypted information open to attack. The goals of my project are to summarize why DES is no longer being used, how it is being deprecated, how successful the deprecation has been, and where the future of algorithmic encryption is heading to compensate for the loss of readily used standards for encryption protocols. Based on the publications from the Information Technology Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, there is currently an endeavor to transition the DES encryption algorithm over to more secure algorithms by posting notices of when DES will be disallowed from certain protocols; this transition can take up to a decade. My findings show that it is unclear if this approach is the most effective methodology to deprecate an encryption protocol. Furthermore, with current Advanced Encryption Standard algorithms being challenged by the development of quantum computers, my findings highlight the importance of conducting research on and developing a clear and quickly-implementable plan for deprecating unsecure encryption algorithms.

The Effects and Evolution of COVID-19 within the Production and Film Industry

Presenter(s): Skylar Thornton
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 1
Poster #: I1 

Abstract: The onset of the global pandemic negatively affected fine arts production, halting the production of movies, television shows, soundtracks, and video games. Consequently, many artists and technicians explored new ways of expression, and the goal of this project is to understand these new trends. Specifically, I aim to answer the following questions: (1) what new technologies and software programs have been used by artists and technicians since the pandemic?; and (2) how have these new tools impacted professionals in the production and film industry? To answer these questions, I interviewed industry professionals including set designers and actors, and I also collected data from industry sources such as the Southeastern Theatre Conference and Florida State University. My findings show that the discovery and implementation of new software and technology (e.g., Sketchup and Unity) grew at quite a high yield, unlike any time before the pandemic. My findings can also explain the changes in film styles, production, and distribution that have appeared in the last few years.

Developing a Methodology for Measuring Empathy Elicited from Audiences When Viewing Augmented Reality in the Visual Fine Arts

Presenter(s): Thomas Walker
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 2
Poster #: A4 

Abstract: Previous research has suggested that artwork which uses visually immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) affect audiences differently than non-stereoscopic (not three-dimensional) designs. Studies have demonstrated that extended reality (XR) technology can elicit stronger emotional responses and higher levels of empathy in audiences than non-stereoscopic versions of the same experiences. However, there is not very much research on how this phenomenon presents itself when XR designs and physical artwork are experienced in tandem. The aim of this study is to create a model for how using AR in the arts impacts the experience of empathy in audiences in the context of fine art pieces with both physical and digital components. For the study, an art series of 15 art pieces in which most of the pieces have a physical component as well as a virtual, AR component was exhibited for two weeks. Audiences viewed the pieces by seeing them in person as well as viewing the AR elements through a tablet with a camera. After viewers experienced the pieces, data was collected from them through a questionnaire evaluating in what ways the AR impacted the viewers’ ability to connect with the themes present in the artwork. The challenges encountered in developing the study as well as the resulting sample data collected can be used as a resource to help future studies which seek to research this phenomenon on a larger scale.

What Colleges Should Consider Based on the Software their Students Use

Presenter(s): Michael Halverson
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 2
Poster #: B4 

Abstract: The research question I am focusing on is “What type of software and hardware do college students use?” The purpose of this project is to figure out what technology is best suited for college students. Apple and Android dominate the mobile device industry, while Apple and Windows dominate the personal computer industry. Every college student has a smart phone and a laptop. The goal of this research topic is to identify what type of Operating Systems, both on mobile devices and personal computers, generation-z college students are using.  The current data available only gives information on all current generation-z people, and I feel that those attending college maybe making choices that do not reflect the overall generation-z population. Most people do not think about what they use, they use what they are surrounded by. I surveyed over one hundred college students. Most of the students were from Samford, A&M, Ole Miss, Wheaton, TCU, and Oklahoma. Sixty percent of the people were male, and forty percent were female. In college sixty-one percent use macOS and thirty-eight percent use Windows. This is important because it helps schools figure out what to use based on the hardware of the students. Sometimes they will be able to tell students if they should use macOS or Windows because some departments prefer one over the other. Most of the data out there for generation-z US consumers says fifty-seven percent of use Windows, while forty-three percent use Macs. Fifty-eight percent use iOS and forty-two percent use Android. Now that I’ve completed the first round of data, my data leaned towards students using macOS and iOS instead of Windows and Android. This goes against the generation-z population because most of them in the US use Windows and iOS. Qualtrics surveys were sent to college students asking what they use and what their closest friends and family uses. The data is broken down into these survey questions to find what students prefer which one and why they do.

Have the privacy policies of social media platforms evolved or have humans become complacent with our information?

Presenter(s): Lauren Winslett
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 2
Poster #: C4 

Abstract: There are dangers in exposing personal information on social media, as that information can sometimes be used to cause harm. But to what extent does the current generation of social media users care about this danger? Are they aware of the ever-changing privacy policies on the various social media platforms? What sort of information are they posting? To answer these questions, I conducted an anonymous survey among 29 people of various age groups, with a focus on women since multiple studies show women to be more avid users of social media. While data collection is still ongoing, preliminary analysis shows younger generations are much more complacent with the information given to and collected by social media. I have also been able to identify which survey questions are useful for collecting this data and which need to be modified, based on feedback from participants.

A Quantitative Investigation into the Cyber Domain Recruitment Crisis within the United States Department of Defense

Presenter(s): Jake Moultrie
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 2
Poster #: D4 

Abstract: Emerging technological advances over the past fifty years has revolutionized warfare seen today. Wars once fought purely with bullets, missiles, and brute force are now heavily influenced by technological geniuses hiding behind computer screens. Consequently, these new technological advancements have opened a world of new threats and concerns. America has the potential to utilize cyber capabilities to promote their own national security as well. But with this potential creates a new challenge: recruiting Department of Defense personnel with strong cyber skillsets, which is heavily sought after in today's economy. Not only is the United States in a recruitment crisis for the overall military, but the cyber retention has always struggled over the years to provide enough adequate and qualified workforce to support the mission. Contributing factors to the workforce crisis include financial reasons, competing priorities in the private sector, military culture, the low supply of the sought-after cyber skillsets currently in high demand, and various other factors. For my project, I took these factors and built a survey to analyze the perceived drivers of attraction and retention for the cyber domain in the Department of Defense. The target population for my survey was college students, or those soon to enter the workforce, including students who have no interest in joining the military and students who already have plans to serve. The survey results offer insight on defining cyber officer skills that undergraduate students lack the most, such as communication skills and leadership skills. In addition, the results show trends of undergraduate students most concerned about time commitments and service requirements when considering the military. Overall, the survey results provide unique insight on potential actions and changes that cyber leadership may consider to strengthen recruitment and retainment.

iOS Pole Vault Journal

Presenter(s): Brittany Bishop
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 2
Poster #: F1 

Abstract: The sport of pole vault is one that is broadly overlooked for the level of technique, dedication, and intensity needed to excel. Throughout my vaulting career, it has been a frequent problem within the vaulting community of how to keep “pole vault data”, such as poles used, step, grip, height cleared, standards, etc., in one concise place for the athlete to refer to at any given time. Some athletes, like me, tried to solve this problem by using paper journals, while others stored their data on a mobile device application like Notes. However, paper journals, over time, can be destroyed, worn down to where they are unusable and unintelligible, or even lost. For the latter method, most electronic devices are not allowed on the competition field while the athlete is competing which makes this method useless unless the athlete can memorize all the data stored in their chosen application. Also, applications such as Notes are often unorganized and fail to give athletes a visual sense of their progress throughout the season. These issues have encouraged me to create a mobile application for iOS platforms that not only allow athletes to store pole vault data, but also give them visual feedback of their progression over time and allow for a PDF print-off of their in-app data at any given moment. With the help of a google form sent to pole vaulters and pole vault coaches for data collection and research of the current applications on the app store, I have developed a rudimentary version of the application that contains a note taking feature. Despite the barriers I have run into with Xcode and Swift updates not supporting older functions and classes that other developers have used in the pass, I am working to develop other features such as a journal icon home screen, a measurement converter, a visual graph of height progression, a photo and video gallery, and the ability to print a PDF of in-app data.

Robotic Assisted Surgery for Esophagectomy

Presenter(s): Allison Dusek
Mentor(s): Greg Kawell
Session: 2
Poster #: I1 

Abstract: My project focuses on a surgery known as an esophagectomy, a high-risk procedure to remove some or all of the esophagus. This lifesaving surgery is statistically one of the most dangerous procedures due to the nature of the incisions, the amount of bleeding and leaking of fluids into the stomach clots, and the high risk of infection. Since the introduction of robotic systems in esophageal surgery in the year 2000, the number of robotic esophagectomies has been gradually increasing worldwide. However, robot-assisted surgery is not yet regarded as standard treatment for esophageal cancer because of its high cost and the paucity of high-level evidence of effectiveness. One such medical device that is currently in use at hospitals is called the "DaVinci", which delivers three-dimensional high-definition views, giving the surgeon a clearer view of the surgical area that is magnified ten times. The goal of this project is to improve the operations of this device, in cooperation with Dr. Porterfield at the UAB robotic surgery unit. While data collection and analysis are still ongoing, my improvements will also be informed by an in-person surgery that I will attend in early April.

The Social Cost of Cost Free Labor

Presenter(s): James Burton
Mentor(s): Art Carden, Randolph Horn
Session: 1
Poster #: B4 

Abstract: As the modern world continues to advance and develop, one continent appears to be economically growing at a slower pace than others. African countries are far less developed and have a far lower standard of living on a continental scale than any other continent in the world. Gross Domestic Product is a measurement which accurately displays these low standards of living and high poverty rates. Discovering the key components of this underdevelopment could lead to possible solutions which could increase the economic output of the continent as a whole and increase its people’s standard of living. One possible explanation for the low levels of GDP per capita is the high amount of ongoing modern slavery still being practiced throughout the continent. A correlation between slavery and low levels of GDP would provide insight into possible measures that could be taken to correct the lack of development in Africa. Discovering whether slavery or other factors are contributing to this economic crisis is essential for finding solutions to increasing the low standard of living in Africa. Existing literature regarding a correlation between modern slavery rates and GDP is extremely limited, making it an under researched subject matter. Thus, literature and data pertaining to the individual studies of modern African slavery, the GDP of each country, and controlling factors such as a nation’s level of democracy must be compiled and cross referenced to discover the impact such a correlation has on the economies and standards of living in differing African countries. This research uses data from a variety of sources to empirically support the theory that GDP per capita is negatively correlated with the victims of slavery per 1,000 of the population in African countries. The research was conducted using the SPSS statistics to empirically analyze the statistical significance of the variables. The coefficients of the research were found to strongly support the theory.

Impact of Religiosity on Adolescents’ Volunteer Behavior

Presenter(s): Reagan Bovenkamp
Mentor(s): Jeremy Thornton
Session: 2
Poster #: D1 

Abstract: This paper seeks to evaluate the impact religion has on adolescents’ likelihood to volunteer using the National Survey of Youth and Religion. The National Survey of Youth and Religion is a longitudinal study that evaluates the religious lives of Americans from youth into adulthood. The study consists of three waves. In each of the waves, respondents were asked a series of questions about their behavior, religion, volunteer participation, and education through both a telephone survey and in person interviews beginning in July of 2002. The parent’s of the participants were also interviewed in the first wave of the survey and asked similar questions about themselves. Using the panel dataset created from the data in the National Survey of Youth and Religion, this paper examines how religion, age, gender, and characteristics of an individual’s parent, such as the parent’s education and marital status, effect an individual’s likelihood to volunteer through employing an OLS Regression Model. The expectation is that religiosity will positively impact an individual’s likelihood to volunteer. Previous literature exists that analyzes the effects of religion on individuals’ behavior, which each support this expectation. My research finds that adolescents who identify as religious are 19% more likely to volunteer than those who do not.

A Short-Term Analysis of Bank Erosion Along Shades Creek in Homewood, Alabama

Presenter(s): Anna Martin, Karis Cook
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Dobbins
Session: 1
Poster #: C2 

Abstract: Increasing urbanization within watersheds streams reduces groundwater recharge, increases stormwater runoff, accelerates and intensifies stream discharge rates, scours banks, and encourages sediment to enter waterways, resulting in intensified flooding. To compensate, early stream management techniques included the deepening and straightening of streams. This channelization of waterways, designed to protect human developments from flooding, resulted in channel incision, bank erosion, riparian area flooding further downstream, and loss of biodiversity. Loss of riparian vegetation, especially trees, can accelerate erosion and bank slumping. Shades Creek, an impaired stream that flows through urban and residential areas of Birmingham, Alabama was channelized over 60 years ago and suffers from intense local erosion. To slow bank loss, localized mitigation efforts, including in-stream modifications (rock vanes and step banks) and revegetation of banks, were performed in 2010. Despite these modifications, we hypothesized the downstream creek bank would exhibit appreciable erosion. In 2022, a study period of five spring and summer months (mean rainfall = 13.9 cm/month) showed an average bank lip loss of 2.2 cm/month along two, 100-meter stretches of bank. Although the mean rainfall was higher than the mean recorded for previous 30 years (12.0 cm/month), climate change is projected to increase summer rainfall and rain intensity, which suggests that these erosion rates may continue.

The Effects Of Oxygen Nanobubble Consumption On Repeated Sprint Ability

Presenter(s): Camryn Cowan
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 1
Poster #: A3 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Oxygen nanobubbles (ONB) are extremely small bubbles with some form of shell capable of encapsulating gas. ONBs are typically 2500 times smaller than a grain of salt. Administration of ONBs has been implicated in enhancing oxygen delivery to various tissues including skeletal muscle. ONBs have become commercially available drink additives marketed for use prior to exercise to improve performance. Immediate energy system recovery is highly dependent on oxidative metabolism making it plausible that ONBs may aid in recovery from sprints which primarily rely on immediate energy (i.e. sprinting). However, this has yet to be confirmed by research. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effects of ONB ingestion on repeated sprint performance. METHODS: Physically active females participated in two counterbalanced repeated sprint trials each with a different condition: 1) Placebo drink (sugar-free drink mix), 2) ONB drink (AVROX, UK). For each trial, participants consumed their respective treatment 10 minutes before exercise. Following a warm-up, participants completed 3 x 15-second all-out effort sprint tests on a stationary bike separated by 2 minutes of recovery with light pedaling. Blood lactate and xanthine were measured pre-and post-exercise. Heart rate (HR) and perceived exertion (RPE) were measured throughout. RESULTS: Findings showed no differences between treatments for anaerobic capacity (p=0.395), fatigue index (p=0.785), HR (p= 0.331), or RPE (p=0.171).  While blood lactate and xanthine increased from pre- to post-exercise (p< 0.001; p= 0.002), no differences between conditions existed (p=0.270; p=0.327). CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest ONBs may not be a viable performance enhancer of sprinting. Practically speaking, ONB consumption should not be encouraged for individuals looking to improve their sprint times as it will likely result in little benefit.

The Effect Of Cooling Towels On Exercise Performance And Perceptual Measures

Presenter(s): Ava Sherman, Addison Burchfiel
Mentor(s): Courteney Benjamin
Session: 1
Poster #: A7 

Abstract: Previous research has established that exercise in the heat and dehydration exacerbate the rise in internal body temperature while exercising, which often results in decreases in performance. Various cooling strategies, including the use of cooling towels, have demonstrated their effectiveness for improving exercise performance in hot environments. While many competitive athletes train and compete in the heat, many recreational athletes complete their exercise in a thermoneutral environment, such as an air-conditioned gym. Additionally, previous research has established that many people live in a chronically dehydrated state. The effectiveness of cooling towels in a thermoneutral environment when participants are dehydrated is currently unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of cooling towels on exercise performance and perceptual measures during moderate intensity exercise in aerobically trained dehydrated females. Four females (age = 23 ± 4; body mass = 65.5 ± 10.9) participated in this randomized, counterbalanced, crossover study. For both trials, participants arrived at the lab following a twelve-hour fluid restriction. Their first-morning urine was collected, and urine specific gravity (USG) and urine color were assessed (USG = 1.024 ± 0.005; Urine Color = 5 ± 1). Participants cycled on a cycle ergometer for 45 minutes, keeping their heart rate between 75-85% of their estimated heart rate max. In one trial, cooling towels (Mission Inc. New York, New York) were applied to the head, neck, and wrists from minutes 30 to 45 of the exercise bout. Total distance and perceptual thermal sensation were recorded every 5 minutes throughout exercise. Total distance (p = 0.870) and perceptual thermal sensation (were not different between the trials (p = 0.319). In conclusion, the use of multi-site cooling towels did not enhance exercise performance or perceptual thermal sensation in a thermoneutral environment.

The Effects Of Yohimbine Ingestion On Psychophysiological Responses To Maximal Exercise At Varying Times Of Day

Presenter(s): Carson Elwell, Kailey Luiken
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 1
Poster #: B3 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Exercise induces prominent alterations in psychophysiological responses which may determine performance. Many responses are further influenced by the time of day in which someone exercises. Studies have suggested that motivation, energy, and alertness during morning exercise tend to be lower than in the afternoon. Yohimbine Hydrochloride (YHM) is a supplement that increases adrenaline and the fight or flight response. Recent evidence has shown that YHM increases pain tolerance, motivation, and energy during exercise which may have implications for improved exercise adherence. However, it is unknown if YHM can improve psychophysiological responses to maximal exercise in the morning. PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine the effects of YHM ingestion on psychophysiological responses to maximal rowing exercise at varying times of the day. Physically active females participated in three counterbalanced rowing trials: 1) Morning-Placebo (AM-PL), 2) Morning-Yohimbine (AM-YHM), and 3) Afternoon-Control (PM). For each AM trial, participants consumed their respective treatment 20 minutes before exercise while no treatment was given for PM. Participants then completed a 2000m rowing time trial. Rate of perceived exertion (RPE), Energy, Fatigue, Alertness, and Focus were all measured throughout. RESULTS: Blood lactate increased pre- to post-exercise regardless of treatment (p< 0.001). However, post-exercise blood lactate levels were lower during YHM-AM versus PL-AM (p= 0.046) and PM (p< 0.001). There were no differences in RPE (p= 0.264). Subjective feelings of energy (p=0.008) and alertness (p= 0.032) were higher during YHM-AM than PL-AM. Focus remained unaltered regardless of treatment (p= 0.960). CONCLUSION: YHM may be an effective supplemental strategy to increase energy levels during morning exercise. This may have implications for helping to motivate individuals struggling to adhere to exercise in the morning.

Energy cost of bipedal walking vs use of assistive devices at controlled walking speeds

Presenter(s): Katherine Serna, Blair Wheeler
Mentor(s): Mallory Marshall
Session: 1
Poster #: B7 

Abstract: In the case of lower limb injury, assistive devices may be needed for ambulation. Evidence suggests that crutches as well as manual wheelchair use increases energy expenditure compared to overground walking. However, direct comparison of assistive devices to each other and to walking at standardized speeds has not been done, making clinical recommendations regarding which assistive devices to use for injured populations difficult. The purpose of this study was to compare oxygen consumption (VO2), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), heart rate (HR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) during bipedal walking (BW), walking with axillary crutches (AC), and ambulation with a knee scooter (KS) at three standardized paces: 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 miles per hour. A total of n=9 college age males and females (20.3 years, 169.3 cm, 68.5 kg) were recruited to participate in a single laboratory visit. In a randomized and counterbalanced order, each participant completed a 3-minute walking trial at 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mph during which they walked normally, walked with crutches, or used a knee scooter. During each trial, VO2, RER, and HR were measured each minute. Values recorded during the final minute of each session were compared for the three trials at each speed using ANOVA tests with Tukey post hoc comparisons with alpha=0.05. There was a statistically significant difference in VO2, RER, and HR for all speeds among the three groups (p<0.05). Pairwise comparisons revealed that at all three speeds, walking with crutches resulted in significantly higher VO2, RER, and HR compared to BW and KS conditions (p<0.05). During walking at 1.5 and 2.0 mph, HR was significantly higher in KS compared to BW, and at 2.0 mph only, RER was greater during KS use compared to BW (p<0.05). Collectively, these data indicate that use of axillary crutches elicits a greater physiological response than either bipedal walking or knee scooter use when speed is controlled.

The Effects Of Varying Weight-Belt Tightness On Perceptual And Performance Measures During Deadlifts

Presenter(s): Gabrielle Faulkner, Shayla Hamilton
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 1
Poster #: C3 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Weightlifting belts (WLBs) are fashioned from heavy-duty material and used as pieces of supportive equipment during resistance training. They are recommended due to their ability to increase intra-abdominal pressure aiding in spine stabilization when lifting. While evidence has supported the efficacy of using WLBs during heavy-load resistance exercise, it is unknown if belt tightness influences performance and perceptual measures during deadlift exercise. PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of varying weight belt tightness on perceptual and performance measures during deadlifts. METHODS: Resistance-trained males and females participated in a crossover counterbalanced study design with 3 conditions: 1) No WLB (control; CON), 2) Loose-fitting WLB (LWB), 3) Tight-fitting weight-belt (TWB). Maximal strength (1 repetition maximum) on deadlift was completed on the first visit. Following this, participants completed 3 sets x 8 reps of deadlift exercise at 70% of their maximal strength as explosively as possible on the subsequent 3 visits each with a different condition. A linear position transducer was attached to the barbell to determine power and velocity. Feelings of stability and confidence were assessed using a visual analog scale. Visits were separated by at least 48 hours. RESULTS: Findings showed that neither the presence nor the tightness of a WLB significantly influenced deadlift power (p=0.881) or velocity (p= 0.327). Wearing a TB increases feelings of confidence (p=0.046) and stability (p=0.042) compared to NB. However, confidence (p= 0.689) and stability (p= 0.389) were not different between LB and NB conditions. CONCLUSION: Neither the presence nor tightness of a weightlifting belt influenced explosive deadlift performance. However, wearing a TB improves confidence and stability during lifting compared to NB suggesting that individuals may experience psychological benefits during exercise while wearing a TB versus NB.

Changes In Physical Activity, Mental Health, And Motivation In College Students After Covid-19

Presenter(s): Lauren Elliott, Emma Cate Jones
Mentor(s): Patrick Marsh, Christopher Ballmann, Rebecca Rogers
Session: 1
Poster #: C7 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The effect of the initial COVID-19 lockdown on motivation, mental health, and physical activity (PA) has been studied considerably. Evidence largely suggests that PA decreased, and depression, anxiety, and stress increased during the lockdown compared to pre-COVID. Intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation seemed to influence how each individual reacted to the onset of COVID-19. Now that vaccines are available, facilities are opening, and people are socializing, it is important to understand potential changes in PA, mental health, and motivation in college-age individuals. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare current PA, mental health, and motivational trends in college-aged individuals to the initial COVID-19 lockdown. METHODS: A 40-question survey was conducted using Qualtrics. The survey consisted of three sections. The first section was taken from the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). In section two, the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Psychosocial Illness Impact-Negative Scale was used to assess mental health. In section three, participants were asked to select the motivational factors that applied to them during and after the COVID-19 lockdown. RESULTS: Participants reported higher levels of vigorous physical activity currently (M=2.75 days/week, SD=1.97) than during the COVID-19 lockdown (M=2.41 days/week, SD=2.04). The numbers of intrinsic and extrinsic motivators reported were higher currently (M=3.21, SD=1.79 intrinsic; M=2.20, SD=0.98 extrinsic) than during the COVID-19 lockdown (M=2.52, SD=1.69 intrinsic; M=1.51, SD=1.06 extrinsic). CONCLUSIONS: After decreases in PA during the COVID-19 lockdown, there appears to be an increase in PA among college students following the lockdown. This increase in PA is accompanied by increased motivation, both intrinsic and extrinsic, to be physically active.

The Effects Of Acute Beetroot Juice Ingestion On Diurnal Variations In Maximal Isometric And Vertical Jump Performance

Presenter(s): Jillian Hart
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 1
Poster #: D3 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Diurnal fluctuations in exercise ability may confound training and competition performance during morning hours. Beetroot juice (BRJ) is a rich source of dietary nitrate which has been reported to increase muscle force production and blood flow to skeletal muscle. Our lab has recently shown that BRJ attenuates morning-associated decrements in sprint performance, but it remains unknown if this translates to short explosive movements. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of BRJ on time-of-day changes in isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) and countermovement vertical jump (CMJ) performance. METHODS: Physically active males participated in three counterbalanced exercise trials under the following conditions: 1) Morning-Placebo (AM-PL), 2) Morning-BRJ (70 mL; 400 mg NO3), and 3) Afternoon-Control (PM). For each AM trial, participants consumed their respective treatment 2 hours before exercise while no treatment was given for PM. Blood nitrite was measured pre-exercise. Participants completed 3 x IMTP tests maximally using an IMTP rig equipped with an immovable bar and ground force plates. For each IMTP attempt, participants maximally pulled for 3 seconds. Following this, participants completed 3 x CMJ without arm swing on ground force plates. All attempts for IMTP and CMJ were separated by 2 minutes of recovery. Trials were separated by a minimum of 48 hours. RESULTS: Findings for IMTP showed increased plasma nitrite with BRJ-AM versus PL-AM (p= 0.001) and PM (p= 0.002). Net peak force (p= 0.002) was higher with BRJ-AM versus PL-AM. Jump height (p= 0.118) and take-off velocity (p= 0.884) were not altered by treatment. CONCLUSIONS: These results confirm that BRJ increases plasma nitrite and suggests that ingestion may improve isometric strength. Practically, athletes and coaches looking to improve isometric strength may use BRJ as a safe and natural performance booster.

The Impact Of Ambient Lighting On Mood And Reaction Time

Presenter(s): Sarah Cothron, Rebecca Noble
Mentor(s): Courteney Benjamin
Session: 1
Poster #: D7 

Abstract: Reaction time is important for everyday activities, such as driving, and for competitive athletes to excel in their sport. Previous research has established that ambient lighting can influence simple reaction time (i.e. one stimulus and one response). The reason for this finding is that red light exposure has been shown to increase melatonin levels, while blue light suppresses melatonin and increases alertness. No research has examined the impact of ambient light on complex reaction time tests in which the individual is required to respond to multiple stimuli. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to observe the effects of different colored ambient lighting on complex reaction time performance and mood. Three healthy males and females (age = 21 ? 2 yrs; body mass = 78.8 ? 4.3 kg) participated in this randomized, counterbalanced, crossover study design. Participants arrived at the laboratory and sat in three different ambient lighting conditions, 1) blue, 2) red, and 3) white with matched lux levels for five minutes. Next, participants completed a simple reaction time test (SR), a split attention reaction time test (SAR), and a semi-circle reaction time drill (SC) in the ambient light condition using FITLIGHTS. Participants also assessed perceived pleasure, arousal, and dominance in each ambient light condition and following the five-minute exposure. Average SR (p = 0.90), SAR (p = 0.457), and SC (p = 0.89) was not different between the three ambient light conditions. Total time for SR (p = 0.75), SAR (p = 0.38), and SC (p = 0.42) was not different between light conditions. There was no interaction between time or light condition for pleasure (p = 0.42), arousal (p = 0.73), or dominance (p = 0.91).  Simple and complex reaction time and was not impacted by ambient lighting when lux was maintained between conditions. Additionally, perceived pleasure, arousal, and dominance was not impacted by various light conditions.

 The Effect Of Axillary And New Canadian Crutches On Metabolic And Subjective Measurements When Used At A Standardized Pace On A Treadmill

Presenter(s): Kara Hummer
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 1
Poster #: E3 

Abstract: Background: Previous evidence has suggested that the use of crutches increases the metabolic demand for movement. There are various types available for use that have been developed in efforts to relieve physical strain. However, many have not been compared at a standardized speed which makes it difficult to understand metabolic demand across individuals. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare metabolic and subjective measurements of axillary crutches to new Canadian crutches during assisted ambulation. Methods: In a within groups, randomized, and counterbalanced study design, physically active females completed three trials: (1) unassisted walking, (2) axillary crutch-assisted ambulation and (3) new Canadian crutch-assisted ambulation. During the axillary crutch and new Canadian crutch trials, the participant walked on their non-dominant limb during ambulation. For each trial, participants walked at 0.8 mph for 3-5 minutes on a Woodway Curve Treadmill. Heart rate (HR) and oxygen consumption (VO2) were measured throughout the trials. Following each trial, rate of perceived exertion (RPE) was measured along with a visual analog scale (VAS) that assessed comfort (COM), mobility (MOB), and ease of use (EOU) of each form of ambulation. Results: HR (p< 0.001) and RPE (p< 0.001) were significantly higher for both axillary crutches compared to bipedal walking. EOU (p< 0.001), MOB (p < 0.001), and COM (p < 0.001) were significantly lower for both crutches when compared to unassisted ambulation. Relative VO2 (mL/kg/min) (p< 0.001), and energy expenditure (kcals/min) (p < 0.001), were significantly higher for both axillary and new Canadian crutches when compared to unassisted walking. Conclusion: No differences were found between metabolic and subjective measurements when using axillary or new Canadian crutches. From a practical standpoint, individuals using crutches should choose whichever style they prefer as both induce similar levels of physiological strain.

Effects Of Listening To Preferred And Non-Preferred Tempo Of Music On Exercise Performance

Presenter(s): Mary Morgan Williams, Hart Madison
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 1
Poster #: G1 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Music has been unequivocally shown to improve exercise performance including endurance, sprint, and weight training exercise. However, preference of music characteristics may alter the efficacy of performance enhancement. Both preferred genre and music volume have been shown to improve performance and psychological responses to exercise. However, it is unknown if music tempo preference alters the beneficial effects of music during exercise. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of listening to music with a preferred or non-preferred tempo on exercise performance. METHODS: Physically active individuals were recruited for this study. In a crossover, counterbalanced design, participants complete two trials: 1) preferred music tempo (PREF), and 2) non-preferred music tempo (NON-PREF). Participants began warming up by rowing at 50% of HRmax for 5 minutes. Immediately following the warm-up, music was started and participants completed a 2000 m rowing time trial. Time to completion (TTC), heart rate (HR), motivation, and enjoyment were analyzed. RESULTS: Trial time (p=0.045) was significantly lower during the PREF condition compared to NON-PREF compared to NM. HR was not altered by treatment (p=0.188). Motivation (p=0.004) and enjoyment (p= 0.039) were higher during the PREF trial versus the NON-PREF condition. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that listening to music with a PREF tempo improves exercise performance compared to NON-PREF. Likely, this is mediated by increased motivation and enjoyment which may lead to more effort.

The Effects Of Fluid Restriction On Visuomotor And Reactive Ability With American Football Headgear

Presenter(s): Payton Benoit, Wade Jewell
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 1
Poster #: H2 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Football headgear has become bulky over time to prevent head injuries. However, it also causes vision impairment. Furthermore, football athletes have been characterized as chronically hypohydrated which our lab has shown negatively impacts reactive ability.  We have also previously shown that peripheral reaction time is hindered with headgear. However, it is unknown if fluid restriction further worsens reactive ability when athletes wear protective headgear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify how fluid restriction influences agility and functional reactive ability while wearing headgear. METHODS: Male participants completed reactive agility tests for two trials: 1) Euhydrated (EU), and 2) Fluid Restricted (FR). Participants were prescribed fluid intake for EU while the FR was asked to abstain from food and liquids for 12 hours. Urine specific gravity (USG) and color (UC) were measured for hydration status. Participants completed a semi-circle and lateral agility drill where reaction time was measured. Also, they completed a shuffle and lateral agility ladder drill where time to completion (TTC) was collected. A Schutt pro football helmet with a medium-reinforced facemask was always worn during testing. Reaction time and TTC were compared between hydration conditions. RESULTS: Findings showed that USG (p< 0.001) and UC (p=0.002) were higher and darker respectively for FR vs EU. Reaction time during the semi-circle (p=0.189) agility and shuffle ladder drill (p=0.160) were not different. However, performance during the lateral agility (p= 0.042) and lateral ladder (p= 0.041) drills was better in the EU versus FR condition. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that FR likely exacerbates visuomotor deficits associated with protective football headgear. Decrements appear to be exclusive to lateral movements suggesting peripheral vision may be affected. Athletes should ensure proper hydration so as to not further compromise performance and safety.

The Effects of Lyrical versus Instrumental Music on Bench Press Exercise Performance

Presenter(s): Georgia Cook
Mentor(s): Nick Washmuth
Session: 2
Poster #: A7 

Abstract: Copious amounts of evidence support the ergogenic effects of listening to music during sprint, endurance, and resistance exercise. The presence or absence of lyrics has been shown to modulate neural activation and emotions in resting states. However, it remains unknown how this translates to exercise. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of lyrical versus instrumental music on bench press exercise performance. Resistance trained males participated in two separate bench press trials each with a different music condition: 1) Lyrical music (LM), 2) Instrumental music (IM). Music was identical between conditions except for the presence of lyrics. Following a warm-up, participants completed 1 set x 2 repetitions as explosively as possible while a linear position transducer monitored mean power and velocity of the barbell. Participants then completed 3 sets x Repetitions to failure (RTF) at 75% of 1-Repetition Maximum (1-RM) separated by 2 minutes of rest. Motivation and exercise enjoyment were measured via visual analog scale upon cessation of exercise. RTF, mean velocity, mean power, motivation, and exercise enjoyment were analyzed between conditions. There were no significant differences between IM and LM for mean power (p= 0.233), barbell velocity (p= 0.168), or total RTF (p= 0.368). However, motivation (p= 0.048) and exercise enjoyment (p= 0.041) were significantly higher with LM versus IM. These data suggest the presence of lyrics does not enhance nor hinder bench press performance. However, increases in motivation and exercise enjoyment with LM could suggest possible implications in for lyrical music in exercise adherence.

The Effects Of Acute Beetroot Juice Ingestion On Diurnal Variation In Repeated Jump Ability

Presenter(s): Luke Harms
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann, Tyler Williams
Session: 2
Poster #: B3 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Time-of-day fluctuations in exercise capability may hinder training and competition performance during morning hours. Beetroot juice (BRJ) is a natural source of dietary nitrate which has been shown to increase the force output of muscle and induce skeletal muscle hyperemia. BRJ has been shown to prevent morning-associated decrements in repeated sprint ability, but it remains unknown if this translates to repetitive and short explosive movements. These findings could uniquely apply to sports like basketball where repeated jumping is necessary to perform well. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of BRJ on time-of-day changes on repeated jump ability and blood lactate responses. METHODS: Physically active males participated in three counterbalanced exercise trials under the following conditions: 1) Morning-Placebo (AM-PL), 2) Morning-BRJ (AM-BRJ; 70 mL; 400 mg NO3), and 3) Afternoon-Control (PM). For each morning trial, participants ingested their respective treatment 2 hours before exercise while no treatment was given for the afternoon. Participants completed 3 sets x 10 maximal multi-rebound jumps while atop ground force plates. Participants were instructed to jump as high as possible for all repetitions. Each set was separated by 1 minute of rest. Jumps were averaged for analysis. Blood lactate [La] was measured pre- and post-exercise. Trials were separated by a minimum of 48 hours. RESULTS: Findings showed that BRJ-AM attenuated decreases in average jump height (p= 0.026) compared to PL-AM while peak force (p= 0.497) was not different between treatments. [La] increased pre- to post-exercise regardless of treatment (p<0.001). Post-exercise [La] was higher with BRJ-AM (p=0.006) and PM (p= 0.026). CONCLUSION:  BRJ prevented morning-associated losses in repeated jump performance and may allow individuals to work at greater exercise intensity in the AM which could lead to better adaptations over time.

The Accuracy Of The Apple Health Application Mobility Data During Overground And Treadmill Walking

Presenter(s): Caroline Kaylor, Grace Lehman
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann, Rebecca Rogers, Patrick Marsh
Session: 2
Poster #: B7 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Apple Health app comes automatically installed on all iPhones with the recent addition of “Mobility” data. According to Apple, when walking with an iPhone in a pocket, the Mobility feature will measure gait variables accurately. However, the accuracy of these measurements is unknown. PURPOSE: the purpose of this study is to investigate the Apple mobility metrics during overground and treadmill walking compared to the OptoGait and GAITRite which have been previously validated for gait variables. METHODS: College-aged males who reported no abnormal gait patterns or lower extremity injuries were recruited into the study. Participants completed two walking conditions: overground walking at a self-selected walking speed using the GAITRite to measure gait variables and treadmill walking at 3.0 mph for 10 mins using the OptoGait to measure gait variables. For both walking conditions, an iPhone 13 was placed in a pouch and secured to the participant’s waists in a standardized position at the level of their navel and in line with the midline of their dominant leg to simulate a pocket. RESULTS: Step length for overground (p=0.070) or treadmill (p=0.130) walking and walking speed for overground (p=0.270) or treadmill (p=0.160) walking was not significantly different between the iPhone Apple Health Mobility app and the GAITRite or OptoGait. However, iPhone Apple Health Mobility app significantly underestimated total double support time during overground walking with the GAITRITE (p=0.001) and treadmill walking with the OptoGait (p=0.040). Furthermore, walking asymmetry was also significantly underreported by the iPhone Apple Health Mobility app compared to GAITRite (p=0.001) and OptoGait (p=0.001). CONCLUSION: The  Apple Health Mobility app can accurately measure step length and walking speed during different walking conditions but may underestimate the gait variables of double support time and walking asymmetry compared to validated equipment.

The Effect Of An Electrolyte Oral Rehydration Solution On Subsequent Anaerobic Exercise Performance And Perceptual Measures

Presenter(s): Kathryn Hoppers, Jillian Hart
Mentor(s): Courteney Benjamin
Session: 2
Poster #: C3 

Abstract: Dehydration is known to negatively influence exercise performance. Research has demonstrated that oral rehydration solutions (ORS) containing carbohydrates and electrolytes enhance exercise performance. It is unknown if ORS containing only electrolytes can improve subsequent anaerobic exercise performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine if rehydration with an electrolyte beverage improves anaerobic exercise performance. Four females (age = 23 ± 4; body mass = 65.5 ± 10.9) participated in this randomized, counterbalanced, crossover study. For both trials, participants arrived at the lab following a twelve-hour fluid restriction. Their first-morning urine was collected, and urine specific gravity (USG) and urine color were assessed (USG = 1.024 ± 0.005; Urine Color = 5 ± 1). Participants cycled on a cycle ergometer for 45 minutes, keeping their heart rate between 75-85% of their estimated heart rate max. No fluid was provided during this exercise. Participant’s body mass was collected immediately following this bout of exercise. Participants were then provided with either an electrolyte beverage (EB) (LMT Inc.) or placebo (PL) (Mio Inc.) to replace fluid losses from exercise. Participants then reported several perceptual measures and completed three 15-second Wingates on a cycle ergometer. Desire for fluid was higher following the consumption of the EB compared to the PL and the difference was approaching statistical significance (p = 0.08). Participants reported an improved taste in their mouth following ingestion of EB compared to PL (p = 0.006). Anaerobic capacity (p = 0.135), mean watts (p = 0.999), and peak watts (p = 0.422) were not different between trials. Although the desire to drink more fluid and perceived taste was improved following the consumption of the EB, performance was not impacted. An EB does not appear to be an effective strategy to improve exercise performance but may be useful to drive the desire to drink fluid. 

The Effects Of Water Or An Electrolyte Sports Drink On Rowing Performance And Rehydration Following Fluid Restriction

Presenter(s): Allie Rae Bates, Mckenzie Parker
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann, Courteney Benjamin
Session: 2
Poster #: C7 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Many sports, including rowing, set standard body weight requirements for competition with only a deviation of 0.5 kg being acceptable. To facilitate the attainment of weight requirements, many athletes restrict and/or intentionally induce fluid loss to meet weigh-in criteria. Fluid restriction/loss has been shown to be determinantal to exercise performance, but optimal rehydration strategies following fluid restriction have yet to be identified. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of rehydrating with water or electrolyte consumption on rowing maximal performance. METHODS: Physically active females participated in two counterbalanced repeated rowing time trials each with a different condition: 1) Water (700 mL), 2) Electrolyte sports drink (700 mL). For each trial, participants completed a 1000m rowing time trial following 12hr of fluid restriction. After the first rowing bout, participants consumed the corresponding condition while resting for 20 minutes, and then completed another 1000m row. RESULTS: Findings showed that rehydrating with a sports drink resulted in improved higher power output (p= 0.045) while no differences were seen for water (p=0.892).  HR decreased during the rehydrated rowing bout regardless of condition (p= 0.048). Thirst was lower during the recovery period with sports drink ingestion compared to water (p= 0.048) while water did not alter thirst perception during recovery. CONCLUSION: Overall, rehydration with a sports drink following fluid restriction improves subsequent power output and lowers thirst during recovery suggesting a possible competitive advantage versus rehydrating with water.

Effect of walking on a self-propelled vs motorized treadmill on cognitive performance during dual tasking

Presenter(s): Katelyn Metzger, Kristin Soderberg
Mentor(s): Mallory Marshall
Session: 2
Poster #: D3

Abstract: Dual tasking is the simultaneous performance of two tasks. Results of studies evaluating simultaneous treadmill walking and performance of a cognitive task are mixed, with some suggesting cognitive performance decrements, some showing increased fall risk, and others eliciting improvement in cognition. Self-propelled treadmills (SPT) lack a motor and rely on the user to propel the belt forward. These treadmills are gaining in popularity because their use elicits a greater physiological response than a traditional motorized treadmill (MT). However, how use of a SPT might impact dual tasking is unknown. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate change in cognitive performance from baseline, seated conditions when using a SPT vs MT and simultaneously performing cognitive tasks. n=8 college age adults (21.1 years, 65.0 kg, 169.1 cm tall) visited the lab on two occasions during which they completed serial 7 subtractions, which required counting backward from a 3-digit number by 7’s for 2 minutes, and a word recall task, requiring recall of as many words as possible from a 75 word list they viewed for 3 minutes. Participants completed cognitive tests while seated and self-selected their preferred walking speed on the MT during a baseline visit. During the second visit, participants completed both cognitive tests under 3 conditions: MT walking at preferred speed, SPT walking at the matched preferred speed, and SPT walking at a self-selected unmatched speed. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare cognitive performance among the conditions. There were no significant differences in serial 7 or word recall performance among any of the conditions, including no differences from seated performance (p>0.05). Collectively these data suggest that use of neither a motorized or self-propelled treadmill during dual tasking results in a reduction in cognitive performance, even when focusing on matching a pre-determined speed.

The Effects Of Hyperventilation-Aided Recovery On Repeated Sprint-Performance

Presenter(s): Sam Patel
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 2
Poster #: D7 

Abstract: Background: Intentional induction of rapid breathing after exercise—also known as hyperventilation-aided recovery (HV)—has been shown to improve anaerobic performance during cycling sprints and may increase blood buffering capacity. However, sprinting is typically completed through running in most competitions yet little experimentation has addressed the impact of HV on high-intensity running. Purpose: This study's aim was to determine the effects of hyperventilation on exercise performance during repeated high-intensity running bouts. Methods: Physically active males were recruited via word of mouth and volunteered to participate. Using a crossover, counterbalanced study design, participants completed two visits, consisting of 2 x 200-meter sprints on a self-propelled treadmill equipped with integrated force plates separated by one minute of rest. For the control treatment, participants engaged in normal spontaneous breathing techniques in between sprints while the experimental treatment, incorporated hyperventilation at the pace of 120 BPM for thirty seconds followed by thirty seconds of spontaneous breathing. Visits were separated by a minimum of 48 hours. Time to completion (TTC; seconds), power output (watts), heart rate (HR), and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded after each sprint. Results: HV did not yield statistically significant differences in TTC (p = 0.694), power output (p = 0.529), or HR (p = 0.749) compared to spontaneous breathing. Conclusion: These results suggest HV between high-intensity sprints has little to no impact on subsequent sprint performance. Practically speaking, athletes and competitors should likely not be encouraged to use HV as a strategy to improve performance recovery during sprints as it is unlikely to provide benefits.

Acute Yohimbine Ingestion Attenuates Morning-Associated Performance Declines During Maximal Rowing Exercise

Presenter(s): Megan Barnes
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 2
Poster #: E3 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Time-of-day fluctuations in exercise ability may confound training and sports performance. Evidence suggests that people tend to perform worse during morning hours. Yohimbine hydrochloride (YHM) is a supplement that increases adrenaline release and stimulates fight-or-flight responses. While YHM ingestion has been shown to acutely improve exercise performance when the time of day is standardized, it is unknown if YHM counteracts performance decrements associated with early morning times. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate if acute YHM ingestion influences rowing performance at varying times of the day. METHODS: Physically active females participated in three counterbalanced rowing time trials: 1) Morning-Placebo (AM-PL), 2) Morning-Yohimbine (AM-YHM), and 3) Afternoon-Control (PM). For each AM trial, participants consumed their respective treatment 20 minutes before exercise while no treatment was given for PM. Participants then completed a 2000m rowing time trial while power output was recorded each minute and time to completion (TTC) at the end of the exercise. Plasma xanthine was measured pre- and post-exercise as an indirect marker of energy breakdown. RESULTS: Findings showed that YHM ingestion resulted in greater power output (p= 0.045) and faster TTC (p=0.044) compared to PL during AM trials. Xanthine levels were significantly higher pre-exercise during the PM (p<0.001) and YHM-AM (p=0.043) conditions versus PL-AM possibly indicating higher metabolic rates. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that acute YHM ingestion may counteract performance decrements during AM times. From a practical standpoint, athletes who have to train or compete in the morning may use dietary YHM as an effective tool to counteract lower performance.

The Effects Of Traditional And Modern Protective Baseball Catcher’s Masks On Visuomotor And Reactive Ability

Presenter(s): Kaelyn McCann, Anna Grace Scholten
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 2
Poster #: G1 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Protective sports headgear has become bulky over time to better prevent injuries. However, they may also cause vision impairment. We have also previously shown that peripheral reaction time is hindered with modern American football headgear. However, it is unknown if decrements translate to modern baseball protective headgear as well. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify the influence of traditional and modern baseball catcher’s helmet technology on visuomotor ability and reaction time. METHODS: Male participants with normal/corrected to normal vision and previous baseball experience participated in 3 counterbalanced conditions: 1) Baseline (BL; no headgear), 2) Traditional headgear (TH; mask-style), 3) Modern headgear (MH; hockey-style). For each condition, a vertical agility test and a semi-circle agility test were completed. LED light timing sensors were situated on 5 poles in a semicircular fashion around a center point for the semi-circle agility test or Velcroed vertically to a wall above and below the participant's line of sight for the vertical test. Participants were asked to step and reach with their hands to hit timing sensors as fast as possible as they illuminated. Reaction time for each condition of the agility tests was compared and analyzed. RESULTS: Findings showed that reaction time during the vertical drill was significantly slower for the MH compared to BL (p=0.013). No differences existed between the TH and BL (p= 0.315). No differences existed between conditions for reaction time during the semi-circle agility drill (p=0.187). CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that modern catcher’s headgear impairs the ability to react to stimuli in upper- and lower- areas of vision compared to BL. However, the older catcher’s mask style did not result in such impairment. These findings suggest that modern catcher’s headgear may impair a player's ability to identify and react to a ball or stimuli high in the air or low on the ground.

The Effects Of Oxygen Nanobubble Consumption Repeated Bench Press Performance

Presenter(s): David Blackburn, Julianne Hill
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 2
Poster #: H2 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Oxygen nanobubbles (ONB) are small gas-carrying bubbles about 2500 times smaller than the size of a single grain of salt. They have been linked to the increase of oxygen delivery to a variety of biological tissues. Commercially, ONBs have become available in drink form and are marketed for use before exercise to boost performance. As immediate energy system recovery is generally limited by oxidative energy production, enhanced oxygen delivery to skeletal muscle via ONBs may serve as a means to improve recovery during fatiguing bouts of resistance exercise. However, the efficacy of ONBs on exercise performance is unknown. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explicate the effects of ONB consumption on explosive and repeated bench press performance. METHODS: Weight-trained males participated in two counterbalanced repeated bench press trials each with a different treatment: 1) Placebo, and 2) ONB solution (Avrox, UK). For each trial, participants consumed their respective treatment 10 minutes before exercise. Following a brief warm-up, participants completed 1 set x 2 repetitions at 75% of 1-Repetition Maximum as explosively as possible while a linear position tool observed the mean power and velocity of the barbell. Participants then completed 3 sets x Repetitions to failure (RTF) at 75% of 1-Repetition Maximum (1-RM) separated by 2 minutes of rest. Blood lactate was measured pre- and post-exercise as an index of fatigue. Trials were separated by a minimum of 48 hours. RESULTS: Findings showed no differences between treatments for mean barbell velocity (p=0.881),  mean power (p= 0.704), or total RTF (p=0.749). Furthermore, blood lactate was not different between treatments (p=0.897). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that ONBs may not be a worthwhile supplement to enhance weight-lifting performance. More research is warranted in other modes of exercise and populations.

The Effect Of Ankle Band Joint Flossing On Squat Performance

Presenter(s): Bailey Bodkin, Caroline Cammack
Mentor(s): Christopher Ballmann
Session: 2
Poster #: I3 

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Band joint flossing is a therapy technique where tight bands are spanned across joints to increase the range of motion and blood flow to the area. This has been implicated in improved exercise ability, but it is unknown how this translates to squat performance. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of band joint flossing on barbell squats and isometric squat performance. METHODS: College-aged females (65.7±2.1 in, 71.2±13.2 kg, 1-RM back squat 72.5±13.2) with previous squat experience were recruited to participate in this study. In a crossover, counterbalanced design, participants completed two trials: 1) band joint flossing (BJF) of both ankles and 2) control (CON) with no flossing. For BJF, a VooDoo floss band was tightly wrapped around both ankles, and participants completed 10-20 repetitions of ankle flexion and extension and 10-20 bodyweight squats. During both trials, participants completed an isometric squat by standing on force platforms with a smith machine locked in place at a knee angle of 80-100 degrees flexion and maximally pushing. Next, participants completed two back squat repetitions at 75% 1-RM as explosively as possible and velocity was recorded through a linear position transducer. Each trial was separated by a minimum of 48 hours. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between BJF and CON for barbell velocity (p=0.17) during the back squat. Additionally, there was no significant difference in peak force (p=0.72) or net force (p=0.34) during the isometric squat between BJF or CON. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that BJF of the ankles does not improve isometric or dynamic squat performance. Practically, athletes should consider different alternatives in an effort to increase their range of motion and performance.

The Intersection Of Racism And Mental Health

Presenter(s): Ellie Borcherding, Allie Raymond
Mentor(s): Jonathan Davis
Session: 1
Poster #: B8 

Abstract: Through our research we sought to answer the questions: “Is there a correlation between perceived experiences with racism and mental health struggles?” To answer this question, we are using four different measurement scales. To address mental health, we utilize the Beck’s Anxiety Inventory and the Beck Depression Inventory. Both scales measure one’s symptoms in relation to low, moderate, or high symptoms of either anxiety or depression. To measure family support, we use the family support scale to analyze the support system of everyone. Family support was tested to see if the level of family support had any impact on anxiety and depression symptoms. Then, to measure racism we utilized 20 questions from McNeilly’s Perceived Discrimination Scale involving one’s personal experiences. However, this could be due to a limitation of our study seeing that there was a lack of diversity represented in our sample and there has been an overall increase in mental health related symptoms. Our paper concludes that through our research, with the use of Pearson’s r, we found that there was no strong correlation between the variables of mental health and racism. We also found no correlation with mental health symptoms in relation to different levels of family support. However, we conclude that this is not a stopping point or solution in terms of research on this topic but rather, only the beginning.

Parental Illness and Family Functioning

Presenter(s): Jordyn Keesing
Mentor(s): Jonathan Davis
Session: 1
Poster #: B6 

Abstract: Chronic illness affects many different individuals including parents, yet there have been few recent research articles that explore the effects of parental illness on young adults. The existing literature suggests family functioning difficulties, psychosocial challenges, and poorer academic functioning among family members with parental illness. This study examines the correlation between parental illness and family functioning. I hypothesized that young adults with chronically ill parents will have lower mean levels of family cohesion and higher mean levels of adaptability than other young adults. Following IRB approval, participants were asked to complete an anonymous survey that was distributed through social media accounts to collect information regarding family cohesion and family adaptability levels. The survey included questions from the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scale (FACES IV) and the demographic question section of the survey was used to measure the presence of parental illness. After analyzing the results, no significant difference was found between the two groups. Evidence revealed that cohesion and adaptability levels are high among young adults whose parents are ill and healthy. The overall demographics of my participants in the study (N=86) were very homogenous with little diversity. These results are unique to the Family Science field and can aid family therapists in providing counseling to families who are experiencing family functioning difficulties along with parental illness. Other helping professionals such as social workers, counselors, and teachers can also use this study to receive more knowledge about the topics at hand and assist their clients. Further research is needed to identify protective factors that can be associated with high levels of family functioning and parental illness.

"The Tragedy of La Malinche and her Children"

Presenter(s): Erica Bradley
Mentor(s): Kelly Jensen
Session: 1
Poster #: C8 

Abstract: A historical figure of both mystery and controversy, la Malinche, translator and advisor to Cortés, is recognized in Latin America as a notorious traitor who facilitated the conquering of her own people. She is also seen as “la madre de los mestizos,” mother of Modern Mexico. Recent reexamination of the person Doña Marina has encouraged a modern revisionist movement around the character la Malinche. Modern Chicana literature has begun to explore the effect that la Malinche has had on Mexican culture, specifically on the image of Mexican women, relationships between men and women, and national identity. The renown poet, Octavio Paz, furthered the cultural effect of Doña Marina through his work, as did his grandfather Ireneo Paz, and exemplified her influence on gender relationships through his own marriage. By discussing the intricacies of the impact of la Malinche through the study of Octavio Paz’s life and work, this paper aims to illustrate the maltreatment of Doña Marina in her representation throughout history, and the result that the narrative built around her has had on her descendants.

Plurinationalism as the Future: A Closer Look at Bolivia

Presenter(s): Sarah Westmoreland
Mentor(s): Kelly Jensen
Session: 1
Poster #: E1 

Abstract: Plurinationalism is defined as the inclusion and appreciation of all cultures and languages, including the minority ones, in a given polity; this inclusion allows for the survival of minority languages and recognizes how they meaningfully contribute to the cultural identity of a population. Bolivia serves as a case study for this research project given that in the last few decades, there has been a decolonization movement that seeks to give Bolivian indigenous languages and cultures the respect that was stolen by the Spanish colonization of Latin America with its emphasis on the superiority of the European Spanish culture and language. This project seeks to examine what the coexistence of languages looks like practically for a future that moves towards plurinationalism as opposed to cultural homogenization. This essay analyzes how Bolivia has begun the process of renovation and reinvigoration of its indigenous languages through formal policies and education reform as well as through cultural movements within music and fashion. Through analyzing the inclusion of indigenous language in popular music, the inclusion of indigenous languages in the school system, and fashion trends based on indigenous cultures, this thesis demonstrates the use of minority languages in Bolivian society at large- not just in its isolated mountain regions. As such, this research is meant to investigate how true existence and plurinationalism have been embraced and could be embraced in the future by not just a few but by the population as a whole This project seeks to synthesize these manners in which cultural inclusion can be measured in order to understand their possible impact on Bolivian national identity.  With over 560 Indigenous languages present in Latin America, this study of Bolivia serves as an example of what could be pursued in other contexts in order to achieve meaningful coexistence between different cultures, not just within individual countries but also on a global scale.

An Interdisciplinary Analysis of Spanish Grammar and Speech of Two Bilingual Speakers

Presenter(s): Caroline Finger, Sarah Westmoreland
Mentor(s): Kelly Jackson, Tiffany Robanya
Session: 2
Poster #: B1 

Abstract: An interdisciplinary research project between the Special Populations in Communication and Sciences and Disorders and the Advanced Spanish Grammar and Syntax classes was completed at Samford University.  The goals of this project were, first to educate students at the collegiate level on the importance and practice of interprofessional collaboration to diagnose and treat bilingual clients with speech and language disorders more accurately. Secondly, for Spanish students to gain experience with interpreting in real time, transcribing Spanish, and analyzing both prescriptive and descriptive grammatical patterns for Spanish. An in-depth analysis of two participants, a bilingual elementary school student and a bilingual adult was performed. Research including both an analysis of the regional Spanish grammar and pronunciation for each participant was completed. An ethnographic interview was performed to gain a more holistic understanding of each individual’s sociolinguistic background.  Finally, this project integrated knowledge of development in bilingual language and speech acquisition to accurately diagnose bilingual individuals, avoiding misdiagnosis of speech and language disorders that could be a result of their acquisition of multiple languages. Results indicated possible deficits in language abilities for the child in both English and Spanish as well as some cognitive problems. These issues were not due to the child being bilingual since the same issues occurred in both languages. Secondly, the adult did not pose any speech problems, rather followed the prescriptive and descriptive grammatical patterns of Spanish for his place of birth.

La Abadesa Preñada: A Transcendent Woman

Presenter(s): Ada Burris
Mentor(s): Sara Ortega-Higgs
Session: 2
Poster #: A2 

Abstract: The worship of the Virgin Mary and the sociocultural devotion to Mary within Spain saw a significant increase during the 13th century. This movement left its mark in the form of “literatura mariana,” the literary genre present in the book Los Milagros de Nuestra Señora by Gonzalo de Berceo, which was written in Spain in 1260 during the height of this literary revolution. This essay analyzes the twenty-first miracle in Los Milagros titled “La Abadesa Preñada,” The Pregnant Abbess, whose protagonist has become pregnant as a result of a forbidden, crazy act of disobedience. The sin and compromised state of the abbess would cause her to lose her ecclesiastical title and authority, to be cast out of the convent, and to not be able to reintegrate into a Christian society in which women were classified into four categories: maiden, wife, widow, nun. In a state of desperation, the abbess prays to the Virgin Mary and begs for her help. Mary miraculously appears in response to the abbess’ prayers, intervening in the situation to deliver the baby without pain, restoring the abbess to a state of virginity, and giving the newborn baby boy (the future bishop) to be adopted by a hermit. These three miraculous acts result in the continuation of the abbess in her position of ecclesiastical authority, her safety within the convent, and her reintegration into Christian society. Furthermore, this essay will analyze the abbess as a type of two women in the Bible: Eve and Mary. Although this work of literature certainly utilizes Biblical typology to represent the theology of the Catholic church and to glorify the Virgin Mary, the figure of the pregnant abbess has value as an individual and provides an interesting example for every Christian.

Role of Fear in an Eco-epidemiological Model with Species Aggregation

Presenter(s): Kendall Bearden
Mentor(s): Kwadwo Antwi-Fordjour
Session: 1
Poster #: A6 

Abstract: In this talk, an eco-epidemiological model with species aggregation and disease in prey subject to fear of predators will be discussed. We assume that the reproduction of the susceptible class of the prey population is affected by fear induced by the predators. We present some basic mathematical results such as positivity, boundedness, and local stability. The coexistence of the species at the endemic state is possible for our proposed model via numerical simulations. This coexistence equilibrium can be destroyed by increasing the strength of fear of predators. We will show that the strength of fear can create and destroy the coexistence equilibrium. In some cases, we will show that the strength of fear can drive a stable endemic state into extinction in finite time. We will also present some interesting and rich bifurcation behaviors revealed by our model.

Semi-supervised Process for Analysis of Big Five Personality Traits

Presenter(s): Callie Ware
Mentor(s): Mingwei Sun
Session: 1
Poster #: D1 

Abstract: The Big Five personality traits, also known as the five-factor model (FFM) and the OCEAN model, was the model to comprehend the relationship between personality and academic behaviors via classifying personality traits into different groups. In this research, a new maximum likelihood centered clustering (MLCC) method was proposed for the analysis of a large Big Five personality traits dataset. The new method made use of exsting OCEAN model information by which we defined maximum likelihood center for each personality for clustering. A testing result showed a better performance of the newly proposed method compared with the regular k-means clustering.  The proposed method can be easily extended to the analysis of other datasets with similar known clustering information.

Penalized Poisson Regression with Referee Index for a Professional Soccer Team

Presenter(s): Thomas Reinke
Mentor(s): Mingwei Sun
Session: 1
Poster #: G3 

Abstract: In this paper, a penalized Poisson regression model which can perform variable selection and regression coefficients estimation simultaneously was implemented to investigate which variables affect the performance of a professional soccer team. A new referee index was proposed in the model to demonstrate the influence of a referee on the team. The model was illustrated by an example of the Manchester City F.C. team in the English Premier League.  It can select the essential variables that affect the number of goals in a game of the team. A testing result showed a superior performance of our new model compared with the regular linear regression model. The model can also be extended to the analysis of the performance of a team in other fields of sports.

Modeling Allee Effect in an Aggregated Eco-epidemiological Model

Presenter(s): Dylan Lee
Mentor(s): Kwadwo Antwi-Fordjour
Session: 2
Poster #: A5 

Abstract: A continuous predator-prey model subject to the Allee effect, prey aggregation, and infectious disease in the prey population will be presented during this talk. We assume that the prey population grows logistically in the absence of predator species. We split the total prey population into two distinct classes: infected prey and susceptible prey. Mathematical preliminaries such as positivity and boundedness are investigated. The analysis of the dynamical behaviors of the proposed model centers on the numerical simulations in which the Allee threshold and disease transmission rate of the prey are the primary parameters. The biologically feasible equilibrium points are analyzed. We will discuss our findings with emphasis on the potential applications in conservation biology.

A Comparative Study on Graduation rates of Private and Public Colleges and Universities in the United States

Presenter(s): Madelyn Mixon
Mentor(s): Mingwei Sun
Session: 2
Poster #: C1 

Abstract: In this paper, we conducted a statistical analysis to compare the graduation rates of private and public colleges and universities in the United States and to investigate which variables affect them. A penalized regression model which can perform variable selection and regression coefficients estimation simultaneously was used to determine the essential factors among eighteen different variables. From this study, we found that there are indeed certain factors that affect private and public colleges and universities differently. A testing study was also conducted which showed superior performance of the implemented model compared with the regular linear regression model.

Galois groups of reciprocal polynomials of degree six

Presenter(s): Ally Lee
Mentor(s): Chad Awtrey
Session: 2
Poster #: D2 

Abstract: Finding solutions to polynomial equations has been a fundamental mathematical pursuit for millennia, starting with the ancient Babylonians. Approximate solutions are useful in some applications and are readily achieved with the aid of software programs. However, in order to make theoretical advances, we often require exact solutions (in symbolic form). Such solutions are known for polynomials of degree less than five. But for larger degrees, it can happen that no symbolic solutions exist. The existence or nonexistence of symbolic solutions is intimately connected with the symmetry properties of those solutions. Therefore, an important area of current mathematical research is consumed with determining symmetry properties of polynomials.
In our work, we have focused on polynomials of degree six with a special form; ones where the solutions come in reciprocal pairs. Using an area of mathematics known as Galois theory, we determine all possible collections of symmetries of a degree six reciprocal polynomial. For a generic polynomial, we describe an algorithm that identifies the symmetries based only on elementary expressions involving the polynomial's coefficients. As an application, we include parameterized families of polynomials for each possible collection of symmetries. Our work generalizes previous results on lower degree reciprocal polynomials and provides new techniques that can be leveraged in future research on higher degree cases.

The Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycan Syndecan Modulates Behavioral Outcomes in a Drosophila Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Presenter(s): Jade Anderson
Mentor(s): Patricia Jumbo-Lucioni
Session: 1
Poster #: J1 

Abstract: Over the years, the number of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) patients continues to grow rapidly in the US. AD pathophysiology includes the abnormal brain accumulation of amyloid beta (Aß) and tau. We have shown that inhibition of angiotensin II, the main effector of the Renin-Angiotensin System, mitigates the locomotion and memory defects in a well-described Drosophila model of AD. However, there is not a clear understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Evidence suggests that angiotensin II increases extracellular matrix components, including the heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPGs) syndecan (SDC). SDC, a high evolutionarily conserved protein, has been described as a major mediator of the seeding and spreading of Aß and tau, a mechanism that perpetuates AD pathology. This study aims at evaluating the role of Sdc expression as modifier of outcomes in a fly AD model. First, we measured Drosophila Sdc expression in brains from 30-days old controls and AD flies via RT-qPCR. Second, we assessed movement deficits in three different fly strains: 1) a fly with a reduced Sdc expression in neurons; 2) a fly AD model resembling the human phenotype, and 3) a double mutant: an AD fly with reduced neuronal Sdc expression. Locomotion was assessed via a negative geotaxis assay at 7 and 14 days. Fly cohorts were tapped to the bottom of a vial. The number of flies passing an 8-centimeter mark in 10 seconds was recorded. Regardless of sex, Sdc expression was ~10-fold higher in brains from AD flies than controls (p<0.0001). Sdc female mutants moved significantly slower (0.32±0.03) compared to AD (0.59±0.05, p=0.0002) and double mutant females (0.55±0.04, p=0.0002) at day 14. Sdc (0.38±0.03) and AD (0.27±0.05) males were equally movement impaired at 14 days. However, loss of neuronal Sdc in AD males but not females strikingly mitigated locomotion defects (0.61±0.03; p<0.0001). In summary, our findings suggest that the HSPGs SDC represents a sex-specific important target for AD therapeutics.

 1,2,3,4,6-Penta-O-Galloyl-ß-D-Glucose (ß-PGG) Mitigates Movement Deficits in a Preclinical Model of Alzheimer’s Disease

Presenter(s): Anisha Jackson, Ezaldean Kahil
Mentor(s): Gregory Gorman, Patricia Jumbo-Lucioni
Session: 2
Poster #: G2 

Abstract: As the US population ages, the number of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, has triggered an increasingly serious health crisis. Hallmark signs of AD include increased inflammation and oxidative stress. By targeting the inflammatory response and the endogenous antioxidant system, researchers hope to identify efficacious treatments for AD. Recently, in vitro studies have provided evidence that 1,2,3,4,6-Penta-O-Galloyl-ß-D-Glucose (ß-PGG), an herbal-derived compound, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. In vivo studies, however, are limited. The purpose of this study was to test the dose-dependent efficacy of ß-PGG at preventing mobility deficits in a young fruit fly model of AD. Our lab used a fly model which closely resembles the human phenotype displaying locomotion and memory defects. This model has proved to be amenable to intervention. Newly-eclosed flies were supplemented with 0, 5, and 10uM ß-PGG until the day of the experiment. Locomotion was tested via a negative geotaxis assay at 7 and 14 days. Fly cohorts were tapped down to the bottom of the vial. The number of flies passing an 8 cm mark in 10 seconds was recorded by genotype, sex, age, and treatment. As expected, AD males moved significantly slower than their control counterparts (0.31±0.04 vs. 0.72±0.03, p<0.0001) independent of age. ß-PGG, however, mitigated the locomotion deficits in AD males. Supplementation with 5uM ß-PGG tended but was not successful at ameliorating locomotion deficits in AD males. Regardless of age, a higher proportion of AD males treated with 10uM ß-PGG (0.60±0.03; p<0.0001) passed the 8-cm mark compared to those fed 0 (0.31±0.04) and 5uM (0.39±0.03). Similar findings were reported for AD females treated with 10uM ß-PGG (0.56±0.04; p<0.05) compared to those fed 0 (0.37±0.04) and 5uM (0.38±0.04). Our findings suggest that 10 but not 5uM ß-PGG ameliorates locomotion deficits in our young fly AD model.

Healthcare Themes In Superhero Films

Presenter(s): Jeanice Boyd
Mentor(s): Angela Thomason
Session: 1
Poster #: A4 

Abstract: Superhero films continue to be a popular form of entertainment. The objective of this study is to determine the positive and negative healthcare themes in a select number of superhero films. An analysis, prospective study was conducted during 2022 examining positive and negative themes found in 10 superhero films. Five randomly selected evaluators with healthcare background were selected to watch the films and complete the data collection instrument. Samford University’s IRB approved this study. The average number of positive and negative healthcare events were 21 and 26 per movie, respectively. The most common positive themes were "teamwork/collaboration/cooperation” with an average of 6.5 events per movie. Whereas the least found general positive themes were stopping/shaming drinking and smoking.  The most common negative themes were “acts of violence/fighting” and “use of guns/knives/lethal weapons” which appeared 11 and 9 events per movie, respectively. Specific healthcare themes were rare found throughout each movie; each healthcare associated theme had an average of less than 1 event per movie. Based on the superhero films included in this study, the number of negative themes outweighed the number of positive themes. Negative themes are more prevalent in superhero movies with little positive exposure to healthcare related themes. Healthcare in general could benefit from being depicted as a more positive role in superhero films.

Tornado Safety: A Quality Improvement Review of Campus Preparedness for Undergraduate Students

Presenter(s): Olivia Sims, Sean Lichtenauer, Rachel Baioni, Katie Piehl, Miranda Johnson, Madalyn Thompson
Mentor(s): Heidi Callighan
Session: 1
Poster #: D6 

Abstract: A variety of recent literature resources suggest the relevance of campus safety and emergency preparedness for severe weather, such as tornadoes. This unpredictable event can pose a serious threat to individuals, including undergraduate students on Samford University’s campus in Birmingham, Alabama. Samford students come from all over the country, some not ever having to experience the threat of tornadoes. Therefore, they often come with a lack of education on tornado safety and preparedness. Researchers find that there is an abundance of guidelines and protocols for a tornado emergency, yet many college students feel unprepared. Without adequate policy and preparedness measures in place, this can lead to negative outcomes including physical and psychological injuries. This paper responds to these relevant needs by implementing a quality improvement review to allow for the evaluation of undergraduate student preparedness and show areas of improvement to promote health and safety during inclement weather. The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) method will be utilized to gather information, plan change, evaluate effectiveness, and allow for the application of evidence-based practice. Tornado preparedness education can be implemented in order to reduce the risks associated with this weather event and maintain safety. Proper education for tornadoes on Samford University’s campus will allow students to feel more confident in their ability to protect themselves and help others if needed. Tornado safety education for undergraduate students at Samford University can reduce the risk of injuries compared to those who do not have the proper education to keep themselves safe in an emergency event.

Comparative case study: an analysis of how different health systems use policy to address healthcare workforce burn out

Presenter(s): Kathryn Toole
Mentor(s): Kym Davey
Session: 1
Poster #: G2 

Abstract: The purpose of this comparative case study was to examine how the different healthcare system structures respond to and help prevent healthcare worker anxiety and burnout. The countries Canada, Germany, The United Kingdom, and the United States were selected to represent the four major types of healthcare systems in the world. The study explored how these countries responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and their policy responses. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was observed that many physicians experienced anxiety and burnout. The pandemic brought these experiences to light citing that healthcare workers experienced an influx of patients, work hours, and policy changes in such a rapid frame. In order to combat this, it was discovered that while each country took a slightly different approach in response to healthcare worker burnout. The responses overlap in the decision to focus on the healthcare worker’s lifestyle and self-care. In conclusion, anxiety and burnout is still being under-reported despite recent policies and efforts to combat both. More studies are needed to better understand workplace stressors so that policies can be tailored to meet the needs of the healthcare workforce.

Time Management: Its Impact on the Academic Success of Samford Undergraduate Students

Presenter(s): Katherine Broussard, Sarah Weido, Charleston Jones, Sarah Cobb, Anna Fry
Mentor(s): Cindy Berry
Session: 2
Poster #: F3 

Abstract: Time management is the essential key in unlocking academic and personal success and is one of many daunting challenges facing undergraduate students. Evidence-based research supports this claim; undergraduate students who lack well developed time management skills have lower overall grades, increased stress, and poor academic and extracurricular balance. While students might acknowledge the need for efficient time management, they lack understanding in the process to achieve this discipline. A quality improvement project using the Total Quality Improvement Model was developed to ensure students have the tools they need to be successful. Implementation of this framework will include; student success coaching, free or reduced cost planners, and periodic conferences. These practical steps will assist students in reaching their academic, social, and professional goals.

Depression in Undergraduate College Students: Utilizing Technology as a Supplemental Intervention in Plan of Care

Presenter(s): Mary Kate McCrudden, Elizabeth Sockwell, Lilly Parker, Ambria Underwood, Darci Champion, Kaylee Stanfield
Mentor(s): Amanda Barron
Session: 2
Poster #: H1 

Abstract: Technology has long been viewed as a hindrance in mental health. However, with the prevalence of technology as a resource, researchers have investigated utilizing technology as a component in treatment of mental health illnesses. This quality improvement project looks at the positive influences of technology on depression if used correctly, guided by this PICO question: In the undergraduate college-age population (P), does implementing a mental health app for the treatment of depression (I), compared to using only tradition methods (C), increase utilization of mental health services (O)?  The literature showed that using web-based interventions in addition to in-person treatment increased accessibility to treatment and decreased symptoms of depression. Despite the negative effect that technology addiction can have on the mental health of the college-aged population, the literature shows that there are ways for technology to be beneficial in the treatment of depression. This quality improvement project has several implications for healthcare professionals. For mental health professionals, it highlights new ways to increase accessibility of treatment resources and utilize technology in their plans of care. This can also apply to nurses, as they care for patients that may be struggling with depression or coping with a diagnosis or hospital visit. The treatment options discussed in this project allow for nurses to educate their patient on technology resources that, if used correctly, can improve their depression symptoms even from their hospital bed.

Assessment of fruit and vegetable intake among undergraduate students using spectroscopy-based skin carotenoid measurements and ASA-24 dietary assessment

Presenter(s): Elise M. Marchand, Katie E. Hynekamp, Eliza P. Burnham, Aimee E. Metzger
Mentor(s): Suresh T. Mathews
Session: 2
Poster #: D8

Abstract: Objective: According to the CDC, only 1 in 10 adults consume adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables daily. Carotenoids are found in a variety of fruits of vegetables and are used as a biomarker for intake. The Veggie Meter (VM) uses Raman spectroscopy to assess pressure-mediated skin carotenoid levels. Very few studies have used VM scores to assess fruit and vegetable intake among college students. The goal of this study was to assess fruit and vegetable intake among college students by analyzing skin carotenoid levels using VM. Methods: 315 undergraduate students, 18 years or older, were recruited from Samford. Individuals who were pregnant, smokers, or who developed fever a week prior to the study were excluded. Volunteers completed a health and demographic survey and signed an informed consent document prior to participating. Skin carotenoid levels were assessed using the VM. Measurements were conducted in triplicate average scores. A subset of participants completed an Automated Self-Assessment 24-hour recall (ASA-24) to determine beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin intake. Results: VM scores were significantly higher in women (296.1 ‡ 97.5, n=178) compared to men (272.2 ‡ 61.8, n=108); upperclassmen compared to underclassmen, and in those enrolled a major in CHS compared to majors in other disciplines. VM scores were significantly higher in students who self-reported their physical activity as active compared to those who were sedentary or moderately active. Students who follow a specialized diet had higher VM scores than those who do not. Beta carotene but not beta cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein, or zeaxanthin intake, as monitored by ASA-24, was correlated to Veggie Meter scores. Conclusion: Our studies, using spectroscopy-based skin carotenoid measurements, suggest that fruit and vegetable intake among undergraduate students may be influenced by gender, classification, physical activity status, and choice of major.

Assessment of the PharmD Pharmacoeconomics Educational Environment in the United States

Presenter(s): Jordan Skiera
Mentor(s): Georges Adunlin
Session: 1
Poster #: D8 

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: In an era of expanding health sectors and rising costs, pharmacists are expected to have a working knowledge of pharmacoeconomics (PE) to use resources better and improve health outcomes and quality of care. However, PE education is not uniformly provided to pharmacy students in the United States (US). This study investigates the current status of PE education in the didactic and experiential curriculum of Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) programs in the US. METHODS: The website and curriculum of all US-based colleges and schools of pharmacy with accredited professional degree programs were searched to identify relevant PE content and investigate the discrepancies in education. RESULTS: 111 out of 141 pharmacy programs (~79%) had information about PE education on their websites. All the programs provided some required level of PE education. The goals and descriptions of PE contents were broad, covering introductory concepts and principles. At most institutions (48%), PE instructions primarily occurred in the third year. The nature of the delivery varied between programs, with some institutions teaching jointly with or embedding the content within another course, such as pharmacy administration, pharmacoepidemiology, or population health. The number of credit hours provided to PharmD students ranged from 1 to 7. Only a few institutions had stand-alone PE courses. CONCLUSION: While challenges remain in thoroughly integrating all its contents into the PharmD curricula, it is safe to argue that adequate PE knowledge can significantly expand the pharmacist’s scope of practice. Given that the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education has incorporated pharmacoeconomics as a required component of pharmacy curricula, obtaining more specific recommendations concerning what topics should be included in the PharmD curricula is essential. Curricula must also ensure that PharmD students have opportunities to apply skills taught in PE to “real world” problems.

Evaluation of antimicrobial stewardship practices from a multi-disciplinary MICU team at a small, non-teaching hospital

Presenter(s): Colter G. Sheveland
Mentor(s): Melanie Manis, Elizabeth Covington
Session: 2
Poster #: A8 

Abstract: Infectious diseases (ID) physicians and clinical pharmacists have been cited most frequently in the literature as actively engaging in antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) efforts. However, a gap remains in the literature addressing the multi-disciplinary (MDT) impact on AMS practices in small, non-teaching hospitals’ medical intensive care units (MICU), particularly with clinicians who have not formally trained in ID. This study was conducted in the MICU at a local hospital to evaluate the impact of a multi-disciplinary rounding team on antibiotic utilization. An IRB-approved, retrospective study was conducted on adult patients who received intravenous (IV) antibiotics while admitted to the MICU. The primary endpoint of days of therapy/1000 patient-days (DOT/1000-PD) was evaluated in the pre-MDT group from November 1, 2020, to March 31, 2021, and in the post-MDT group from November 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022. Key secondary endpoints included DOT/1000-PD of antipseudomonal (anti-PsA) beta-lactams and anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (anti-MRSA) agents, appropriate antibiotic de-escalation based on available culture and susceptibility data, utilization of a 3-day trend of procalcitonin in sepsis and pneumonia, all-cause inpatient mortality, and ICU length of stay. A total of 116 charts were reviewed and 102 were included in the analysis (51 in the pre-MDT group and 51 in the post-MDT group). There was no difference in DOT/1000-PD of all antimicrobials between the pre-MDT and post-MDT groups (2317 vs. 1264, P = 0.185). The establishment of a multi-disciplinary team conducting weekday rounds in the MICU of a non-teaching hospital did not result in a significant reduction in the days of therapy of antibiotics administered. However, the roughly 1000 DOT/1000-PD reduction observed in the post-MDT group is clinically significant and prompts the need for further study with a larger sample size to provide adequate power to detect a potential difference.

Program evaluation of an inaugural voice health screening program for vocalist students

Presenter(s): Taryn Adams, Jenny Johnson
Mentor(s): Brad Diamond, Kelly Jackson, Sarah Szynkiewicz
Session: 1
Poster #: H1 

Abstract: Voice students are met with heavy vocal demands in both education and additional common lifestyle factors that can affect vocal health. Research shows that voice students are often unaware of vocal problems and related symptoms and lack understanding of vocal health. Videostroboscopy (VS) is an instrumental tool used in speech-language pathology (SLP) practice to visualize voice anatomy and physiology. Many SLP graduate programs do not currently offer training in VS even though preliminary work shows that the training experience improves knowledge and skills in voice disorders. The purpose of this project was a program evaluation of the first voice health screening clinic at Samford University. In partnership with Division of Music, the Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSDS) department launched a grant-funded program to: 1) provide advanced graduate-level training to SLP students in VS and 2) perform voice health screenings on volunteer undergraduate vocalists. Two graduate SLP students were selected to complete VS training and under supervision, completed 17 voice health screenings for undergraduate voice student volunteers in Fall 2022. Outcome measurements included pre- and post-measures related to the SLP graduate students’ anatomical voice knowledge and self-perception of VS knowledge/skills, and the vocalist students’ confidence and motivation related to vocal health knowledge and recommendations. Results from paired t-tests show that the SLP graduate students’ anatomical knowledge (p = .014) and self-perception of knowledge/skills related to VS (p = .035) significantly increased with participation in the program. Findings also show that the vocal students’ confidence (p = .003) and motivation (p < .001) significantly improved through their participation in the program. Findings suggest that the program was impactful for all students, potentially indicating that voice screening program development at other CSDS graduate programs would be beneficial.

Bilingual Language Analysis

Presenter(s): Ellie Krick, Brooke Shirley, Gracen Fisk
Mentor(s): Tiffany Robayna, Kelly Jackson
Session: 2
Poster #: C6 

Abstract: The purpose of this project was to conduct a bilingual language sample while pioneering an interdisciplinary collaboration between a speech language pathologist and a Spanish interpreter. SLP and Spanish students began by analyzing an interview with participant A, a six- year-old bilingual male with a speech and language impairment conducted by a speech- language pathologist and a Spanish interpreter. Next, the students found a native Spanish speaker, participant B, and interviewed her in Spanish utilizing the Spanish student as an interpreter and in English with the speech students. The students then transcribed a sample and found that participant B was a successive second-language learner, learning English at 17 years old. She uses code-switching for words in English she may not know, using same utterance and intra-utterance code-switching. The students observed that participant B’s L1 influence on her English grammar and syntax was that of a typical L2 English learner. Using incorrect forms of irregular verbs or final deletion of consonants was common throughout the English sample. These errors show a dialectical difference, not a language disorder. Participant B had strong phonology, pronouncing letter sounds correctly throughout. In her English, her speech production excelled over her syntax. As communication science and Spanish students, it was concluded that merging the two fields is unique. Knowledge from both fields of study were used to assist during the translation. This analysis showed what a career would entail as a bilingual clinician, a job much needed in the world of speech language pathology. With interpretation, observing English from a native Spanish speaker showed the processes used when learning a second language. This collaboration between Spanish and CSD students gave an understanding of both fields of study, interpretation and demonstrated how to accurately analyze a language sample in bilingual speakers.

Using Erection Hardness as a Vital Sign

Presenter(s): Wilson Simpson, Tyler Queen
Mentor(s): Nicholas B. Washmuth
Session: 2
Poster #: H3 

Abstract: Purpose: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or sustain an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual performance, and affects 30-52% of men aged 40-70 years. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting an association between ED and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The purpose of this white paper is to propose that screening for ED as a vital sign become standard practice for physical therapy (PT). Context: A component of every PT examination is the screen. A purpose of a screen is to discover underlying health conditions and to determine if a patient’s dysfunction is outside the scope of PT. An example of a screen is taking vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure. Impairments in blood pressure, for example, may indicate CVD, and would warrant further investigation or referral to an appropriate health care provider. Results: Erections are vascular in nature. There is an association between ED and atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a systemic disease involving large and medium-sized arteries. Due to the systemic nature of atherosclerosis, the manifestations of plaques may result in early symptomatology in anatomical regions with smaller arteries, such as the penis. ED is a different manifestation of the same vasculogenic pathology that causes atherosclerosis. ED and CVD share the same risk factors. In patients with CVD, up to 70% reported ED before symptoms of CVD. Men with ED are twice as likely to experience a heart attack in the next 2-5 years. Conclusion: Due to the strong association between ED and CVD, we propose that ED screening occur with every male patient during their initial PT examination. Reliable and valid outcome measures, such as the International Index of Erectile Function and the Erection Hardness Scale, should be used to identify patients with ED. We suggest that a low score on these outcome measures warrant further examination of the cardiovascular system and possible referral to appropriate health care providers.

Development of the Einstein-de Haas experiment for use in characterizing the electronic structure of materials in advanced laboratory courses

Presenter(s): Greg Young
Mentor(s): Stephen L. Strickland
Session: 1
Poster #: I2 

Abstract: In a physics major, the advanced laboratory courses expose the students to fundamental data-collection techniques and their application to advanced fields. The Einstein-de Haas effect examines an important material property (the gyromagnetic ratio) using a wide range of macroscopic tools accessible to the developing student. The Einstein-de Haas effect observes that a free body will rotate in response to a change in that body's magnetic moment. When a ferromagnetic material is subject to a magnetic field, its electrons reorient themselves so that their spins are aligned with the field, producing a counter-angular-momentum that rotates the entire body. In observing the changing angular momentum of the body and the changing magnetization, one can find the gyromagnetic ratio, a material property that serves as a useful introduction to spintronics, semiconductors, and materials science. The broader scope of this project is to extend the technique to non-ferrous materials and liquid materials. In these materials, the magnetic and gyroscopic resonse would come from eddy currents, orbital angular momentum, or convective currents within the material rather than electron spin. By extending this technique to a wide range of frequencies, we aim to discern the different sources of the gyromagnetic effects. This work is the first step in the broader goal, building the apparatus and confirming previous results in a context that is suitable for undergraduates in an advanced-laboratory setting. To this end, undergraduates performing these experiments would learn to use equipment such as a driven-damped torsion pendulum for precision measurement, an arduino for data collection, breadboard circuitry, and video tracker analysis. We report that the Einstein-de Haas Effect can be reproduced, observed, and analyzed by undergraduate students in an affordable, resource efficient, and hands-on way, making this experiment suitable for an upper-level advanced lab course.

Examining the Role of Media Sensory Curation on the Relationship Between Neurodivergent Symptoms and Smartphone Addiction

Presenter(s): Ellie Fussell
Mentor(s): Amanda Howard
Session: 2
Poster #: E1 

Abstract: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is estimated to affect 2.21% of the American population. Previous research suggests that there is a relationship between ASD and smartphone addiction. However, few studies have examined these variables in emerging adults. Media sensory curation is when a person utilizes a form of media in order to equalize a sensory need, such as visuals or auditory.  It is possible that smartphone use among individuals with ASD is serving a similar function. People with ASD may find that smartphones provide comfort or an escape from overwhelming situations. This study sought to determine the role of media sensory curation on the relationship between ASD symptoms, smartphone addiction. Specifically, the current study hypothesized that 1) ASD scores would be positively correlated with smartphone addiction, 2) media sensory curation would be positively correlated with ASD symptom scores, and 3) the relationship between smartphone addition and ASD would be related to media sensory curation. Participants (N=159) were students from Samford University. Data was collected through online surveys to measure levels of media sensory curation, symptoms of ASD, and smartphone addiction. Pearson’s correlations were conducted to examine the relationships between ASD symptoms scores, media sensory curation subscales, smartphone addiction.  Supporting hypothesis 1, smartphone addiction was significantly related to ASD symptoms. ASD scores were also related to all media curation subscales, which is in line with hypothesis 2. Separate hierarchical regression models were conducted in order to determine whether ASD symptom scores and media sensory curation subscales predicted smartphone addiction.  Partially supporting 3, smartphone addiction was related to ASD scores and visual and movement curbing and audio and movement capturing.  Results from this study should be used to provide insight to the usage of media by those on the ASD.

The Well-being of Missionary Families

Presenter(s): Sterling Cannady
Mentor(s): Jonathan Davis
Session: 1
Poster #: B1 

Abstract: Missionary work is a calling that is an essential part of the Christian faith, yet it is met with many difficulties and challenges. These difficulties include learning a new language, a new cultural dynamic, and being separated from other family members, among other things. It is also evident that missional endeavors impact the entire family unit, not just individuals. Although international missionary families typically experience training of various kinds, they still feel the weight of difficulty. This study looks at the well-being and satisfaction of international missionary families compared to their non-missionary counterparts. Using the FACES-IV Scale, satisfaction, cohesion, and flexibility were measured. Respondents also were able to answer several demographic questions, which helped to categorize their responses. The hypothesis for the study was as follows: Overall familial well-being and satisfaction are negatively correlated with long-term missionary field placement. The results of this study did not support the hypothesis. Alternatively, trends were seen toward missionaries having higher satisfaction, cohesion, and flexibility, however, these trends were not statistically significant. These findings are impactful to the family science field specifically because they can help us to better understand and implement missional training and reentry programs for families, and they can help us better understand how to support this unique family type. Additionally, it can give us a broader view of familial well-being and satisfaction levels for all family types.

Period Poverty and Women's Rights

Presenter(s): Ellie Johnson
Mentor(s): Christson Adedoyin
Session: 1
Poster #: D2 

Abstract: This systematic review sheds light on the vast implications that taboo cultures, oppressive practices, and discriminatory social constructs of menstruation have on women’s rights all around the world. Period poverty, the inaccessibility and unaffordability of feminine hygiene products, is the cultural reality for many girls and women around the world. This study systematically reviewed five peer-reviewed articles on how the concept of period poverty has oppressed and negatively impacted women’s rights. This study revealed interlocking themes of oppression including inadequate standards of health and wellbeing, limited occupational and educational opportunities, reduced psychological health, and diminished overall quality of life. Aspects of period poverty that were consistently highlighted in the literature include affordability and accessibility of menstrual products, accessibility to clean facilities and adequate living conditions, and accessibility to education about women’s health. The effects of period poverty pose as a huge threat to women’s rights; however, holistic approaches to combat the inequalities could be an effective beginning to ensure that women around the world have the resources, knowledge, and opportunities to live meaningful and abundant lives.

Patriarchal Beliefs' Influence on Christian Women's Pursuit of Career Leadership and Education

Presenter(s): Rebekah Marsh
Mentor(s): Jonathan Davis
Session: 1
Poster #: F1 

Abstract: Christian women have many variables influencing their lives and the decisions that they face. One of these influences is patriarchal beliefs, and one of the most common decisions in a woman’s life are her education and career opportunities. Both variables seem to be related, however, there is not a lot of research about the correlation between the two. Previous research has shown that many societal, religious, and environmental pressures surround the belief system that many Christian women value and seek to uphold, but more in depth information is needed about the cause behind why Christian women make the decisions that they do. This paper investigates whether there is a significant relationship between a Christian woman’s patriarchal beliefs and her pursuit of leadership and education opportunities. I then used the Attitudes Toward Christian Women Scale (ACWS) to measure the participants’ patriarchal beliefs. Next, I used the Leadership And Achievement Scale (LAAS), specifically the leadership and education aspiration subscales. My survey results demonstrate a significant relationship between patriarchal beliefs and Christian women’s leadership in career aspirations, and between patriarchal beliefs and education aspirations. The results of each survey also reflected a major negative correlation with each other, therefore proving that my hypothesis was correct. This study shows how important it is for family scientists, family life educators, family therapists, and policy makers to understand the mindset that many Christian women have. This will cultivate the sensitivity that they should have as they work with women and families with a background of patriarchal beliefs. Also, this study highlights the fact that more research is needed in this field. In continued studies, more in depth research should be done regarding the beliefs that Christian women and families have and the decisions that they make.

Eating Disorders and the Health of Families

Presenter(s): Katelyn Parks, Emma Peebles
Mentor(s): Jonathan Davis
Session: 2
Poster #: B2 

Abstract: Purpose: Eating disorders (ED’s) can be described as an illness towards thinking about and treating food in an abnormal way. Highly structured or highly chaotic family relations lead to familial dysfunction. This dysfunction could be a potential factor in family members developing an ED. Research suggests there is a strong correlation between individuals with eating disorders, and families with dysfunction regarding cohesion and flexibility. However, not enough research has been done to prove this. Therefore, this current study aims to solidifying previous research by assessing and examining the relationship between ED’s and familial dysfunction. Methods: In this study, ninety-nine non-clinical participants (18 male, 80 female, 1 transgender) completed an anonymous self-reported survey, distributed through social media. Participants completed a survey that was compiled of two surveys: FACES-IV and the Eating Disorder Questionnaire 6.0. Results: Overall, our findings supported our hypothesis. Participants who scored lower on the EDE-Q scored higher on the FACES-IV survey. This inverse relationship demonstrated a correlation between ED’s and familial dysfunction. Discussion: Our findings support the possible correlation between ED’s and unbalanced cohesion in families. Future research on this topic is highly encouraged to draw a conclusion. Limitations: Despite our findings, our study could have been limited due to factors such as sample size, length of survey, and the integrity of self-reported answers.

Parenting Styles and its Affect on Alcohol Consumption Among College Students

Presenter(s): Robert Rait
Mentor(s): Jonathan Davis
Session: 2
Poster #: E2 

Abstract: Alcohol has been around since ancient times, and the reasons why individuals consume alcohol vary from fitting in with social situations, a possible coping mechanism, to relax after a hard day or the pressure around someone as they grow up, to a multitude of other reasons. Alcohol consumption is measured by the number of drinks and the frequency that one drinks. The way a parent guides their children places them into one of three categories, authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between alcohol consumption in college-aged students and the style of parenting that they grew up in. The study was created using the Parental Authority Questionnaire (PAQ-S), and the ATA (Attitudes Towards Alcohol). The ATA also contains questions that ask about frequency of consumption as well as possible reasons behind why individuals drink. The results were counted and looked at for any sort of correlation between the two. A sample of 55 individuals was taken from an internet-based questionnaire available to a private link posted to various social media pages. The survey consisted of 46 questions asking questions about the behaviors of the parents, as well as the individual’s personal views on alcohol. The paper argues that there is a correlation between specific parenting styles and the frequency of alcohol consumption. The idea was that authoritative parenting would result in less alcohol consumed, and authoritarian parenting would result in the most alcohol consumed. There was not a significant relationship on alcohol usage among college students and their perspective parenting styles found.