麻豆成人电影

Bovine Milk as a Source of Antibiotics?

Student Researchers: Hudson Akins & Destin Avery-Shuey
Mentor: Dr. Ashley Spring

Abstract: Bacterial pathogens resistance to antibiotic treatments has continued to drive the search for effective alternatives to conventional antibacterial medications. Natural substances, including tea tree oil, honey, garlic, and the milk-derived glycoprotein lactoferrin have been reported to inhibit bacterial growth. This study tested the hypothesis that bovine-sourced lactoferrin would produce significantly larger zones of inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli than tea tree oil, honey, and garlic, and produce zones of inhibition not significantly different from the standard antibiotics鈥� ampicillin and tetracycline. Using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, lactoferrin and garlic demonstrated minimal to no antibacterial activity; in contrast, tea tree oil and honey produced consistent antibacterial effects. These findings do not support the original hypothesis that bovine lactoferrin will inhibit bacterial growth of S. aureus and E. coli but provide support that tea tree oil and honey are natural substances with antibiotic properties.

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The Impact of COVID-19 Lockdowns on Mental Well-Being and Social Development in Generation Z

Student Researcher: Meeka Brass
Mentor: Dr. Chelsie Kuhlman

Abstract: This research paper investigates the mental well-being and social interaction skills on Generation Z after the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown from March 2020 to May 2023. However, little is known about this subject because of recent the lockdown was. Using data from psychological peer-reviewed research, the paper analyzes the studies made on young adults and adolescents in the Gen Z population. This includes personal testimonies of students鈥� experiences during lockdown and statistical findings. Drawing on an analysis of existing literature, the results suggests that the challenges faced like years of isolation, reduction of face-to-face interactions, and school closure led to a trend of mental health problems within Gen Z like depression, anxiety, and loneliness which made adapting to the social changes difficult. This research also brings to light that Generation Z was hit especially hard due to the pandemic disrupting vital formative years to their relationships, identity, and skills through communication. The reason why this matters currently is because of the long lasting social and psychological effects that have continued past the lockdown period, making it vital to understand the immediate harm COVID-19 did bring and probable long-lasting consequences for this generation.

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News Media Exposure and Mental Health

Student Researcher: Victor Burke
Mentor: Dr. Chelsie Kuhlman

Abstract: Constant exposure to news media has become unavoidable, often presenting individuals with frequent negative content that may impact mental health. While prior research has focused heavily on COVID-19-related news, it remains unclear whether these effects extend to general news consumption. This study examines the relationship between continuous news media exposure and levels of anxiety and psychological distress among adults. Using a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed studies, findings indicate that frequent exposure to negative news is associated with increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness. However, these effects may be reduced through coping strategies such as mindfulness, physical activity, and maintaining a positive outlook. Overall, the findings suggest that while news media exposure can negatively impact mental health, its effects can be managed through healthy coping mechanisms

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Intelligent Sustainability: The Role of AI in Shaping the Future of Green Architecture

Student Researcher: Zharia Clayton
Mentor: Anthony Akers

Abstract: This research topic explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on sustainable architecture and the changing ideal relationship humans have with the natural world. Sustainable architecture is born of a cultural shift more so than an ecological one, turning to nature for problem solving, appreciating the environment to learn that human systems, as they are, cannot continue and must adapt for the viability of the environment over the long-term. Thus, AI, as a means of support for that development, engages with innovative designs and processes through implementation that create more functional and interactive buildings and ultimately, a greater balance between human systems and the natural world.

The significance of the study lies in the contemporary understanding of AI tools in design and how, through improved responsive consideration to climate changes, resource responsive systems and formations that encourage a holistic approach to naturalized conservation and humanistic appreciation, that AI can both appreciate and build upon the current sustainable architecture intentions. By blending modern examples of AI creations with a sustainable architecture perspective, the goal is to assess whether technical developments blend with the intentions of modern sustainability or whether a disconnect exists that suggests a future reconciliation of sustainable architecture efforts to better embrace AI.

Ultimately, this study intends to prove how AI will become a revolutionary force of sustainable architecture with ever growing potential for sustained futures that become more pliable, anticipatory and ethically grounded in a forward movement predisposed to a healthy relationship with the natural world.

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Germination Rates Effected by Alleopathic Plants: How Dioscorea bulbifera Effects Radish Seedling Growth

Student Researcher:  Jaslene Delgado
Mentor: Ramona Smith

Abstract: Dioscorea bulbifera is a highly aggressive vine plant in Florida, commonly recognized as a category 1 noxious weed that disrupts ecosystems by not only displacing the native vegetation, but also utilizing allelopathic chemicals to suppress native growth. This study investigated the allopathic effects on D. Bulbifera Vine extract on the root lengths and germination rates of radish (Raphanus sativus). Utilizing a controlled laboratory design, 250 seeds were distributed evenly against five concentrations, with 0% being the control, and the other four being 25%, 50%, 75%, 100% dilutions. The concentration was made by soaking 40 G of chopped Vine into 200 mL of distilled water for 24 hours.

Results indicated an inverse relationship between the seedling growth and the extract concentration. The overall mean percentage declined from 98% (SD = 0.45) in the control group to 12% (SD = 0.84) at the 100% concentration. Similarly the overall mean root length was decreased from 17.6 mm (SD = 0.43) at the 0% concentration to 0.9 mm (SD = O.57) at the 100% concentration. These findings demonstrate that D. bulbifera extract limits both the early root development and the germination of R. sativus under laboratory conditions.

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How does technology effect adolscence's cognitive, social, and emotional functioning?

Student Researcher: Luke Donhoff
Mentor: Dr. Chelsie Kuhlman

Abstract: Frequent technology use is common among adolescents and it can affect them in many ways. Despite prior research studies, the social, emotional and cognitive effects of frequent adolescent technology use still remains unclear. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review and analysis of how frequent technology use can affect adolescents socially, emotionally and cognitively. Through an examination of scholarly studies and literature, various factors influencing the relationship between technology use and adolescents are identified, including social media, instant messaging, mental illness and other reasorces on the internet. The use of social media and instant messaging relating to educatication quality is also explored. Furthermore, this paper explores the relationship between technology use and sleep quality, highlighting possible unconventinal negative outcomes relating to adolescents' use of technology. The paper concludes with positive and negative outcomes of frequent use of technology among adolescents. Positive and negative outcomes of technology are found present in the main three categories included in this paper: social, emotional and cognitive. By understanding the complex relationship between adolescents and technology and its significance in adolescent鈥檚 development, adolescents themselves, educators, organizations, parents or guardians can optimize and improve adolescent use of technology.

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Dual Enrollment Equivalency Lookup Tool

Student Researcher: Aiden Dugan
Mentor: Gary Hrezo

Abstract: Dual enrollment has become an increasingly popular path for education in Florida, with more than 60,000 students taking DE classes each year, earning both college and high school credit simultaneously. The Florida Department of Education publishes a lengthy PDF each academic year outlining how college credits are counted on the high school transcript and under what high school subject area each course should be recorded. The official PDF, while providing vital information for dual enrollment, is difficult for students, parents, and educators to use.

This project presents the development of an interactive web-based tool that transforms the static equivalency list into a searchable interface. Built using a Python-based lookup system, the tool allows users to query courses by name, code, or subject area and instantly retrieve corresponding high school credit information. By improving accessibility and reducing the time required to locate relevant data, the tool supports more efficient and informed academic planning.

Future work will focus on evaluating usability through user interaction data, improving accessibility features, and expanding outreach to school counselors and academic advisors.

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Quantitative Analysis of Aloe-Emodin-Induced Cytotoxicity in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Spheroids and Metabolic Activity Assessment via XTT Assay and ImageJ Morphometric Evaluation

Student Researcher: Ava Gallo
Mentor: Kia Adams

Abstract: Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide, and conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy often damage healthy tissue. This study examined the effects of aloe-emodin, a bioactive compound derived from Aloe vera with previous reported anticancer and pro-apoptotic properties, on three-dimensional MCF-7 human breast cancer spheroids to evaluate changes in metabolic activity, cytotoxic response, and spheroid morphology.
MCF-7 spheroids were formed to model tumor-like architecture. Aloe-emodin was prepared at a concentration of 50 碌M and delivered directly into spheroids through microinjection. Untreated spheroids, and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) vehicle controls were included for comparison. After a 24-hour incubation period, metabolic activity was measured using the XTT assay. Morphometric analysis was conducted using ImageJ software. Aloe-emodin鈥搕reated spheroids exhibited decreased metabolic activity compared to DMSO control with a p-value of 7.32x10^-5. Though when comparing the treatment group to the untreated control the metabolic activity was higher in the treated group with a statistically significant difference and p-value of 0. ImageJ analysis demonstrated reduced spheroid size in the treatment group while control spheroids increased in size.. These results indicate that delivery of aloe-emodin produced measurable cytotoxic and structural effects within the breast cancer spheroids. This study demonstrates the utility of three-dimensional tumor models for evaluating plant-derived anticancer compounds and supports further investigation into aloe-emodin as a targeted therapeutic candidate.

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Suicide prevention accessibility among autistic people

Student Researcher: JoeAnn Gleinn
Mentor: Dr. Chelsie Kuhlman

Abstract: The project is about autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder that inhibits social interactions, makes sensory issues more pronounced, and other things, and the rate at which autistic people commit suicide, and how to help prevent them from committing suicide. Autistic people, unfortunately, commit suicide at an alarming rate compared to neurotypical people, and unfortunately, there is not much research that exists about it. The purpose of the research is to show the world that autism and autistic people need to be included in the suicide prevention conversation, because the 鈥渘ormal鈥� suicide prevention concepts they wont work for autistic folks. The conclusion that the researcher drew was that autism needs to be studied more in the suicide prevention sphere.

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How do early learning experiences in someones past/childhood contribute to the development of specific phobias later in life?

Student Researcher: Ryan Graves
Mentor: Dr. Chelsie Kuhlman

Abstract: This study examines how early childhood experiences contribute to the development of specific phobias later in life. Addressing a key gap between causation and correlation, this systematic review analyzes scholarly literature to explore how learned behaviors and reinforcement shape fear responses. Findings indicate that negative early experiences, such as neglect or exposure to conflict, are associated with increased fear and anxiety in adulthood, with frequency and intensity influencing severity. These experiences may evolve into specific phobias through learned associations and maladaptive cognitive patterns. The results highlight the importance of early environmental factors in fear development and suggest implications for clinical interventions targeting the root causes of phobias.

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Primal World Beliefs in Hierarchies and Egalitarianism within COLLEGE Introduction: The Legal System of Harry Potter

Student Researcher: Abigail Hayes
Mentor: Luke Leonard

Abstract: Harry Potter, the book series written for children, has a very elaborate legal system and bureaucratic structure that is worth examining through real-world political theory. This research aims to analyze whether the legal and government framework of the Harry Potter universe is best categorized under hierarchical or egalitarian. This research incorporates the legal institutions and processes of judicial-decision making found in the Ministry of Magic (the government for the wizarding community in Harry Potter), this hierarchy is a centralized authority in which people are ranked one above the other based on status, while egalitarianism is the doctrine that all people are equal and deserve equal opportunities. By looking at Harry Potter through the lens of political science, legal theory, and organizational sociology, this research will be able to determine which category the Harry Potter legal system is most alike. Key textual indicators of hierarchy found throughout the Harry Potter series includes, the Minister of Magic鈥檚 near-absolute executive power, the Ministry鈥檚 use of evil Dementors, and the discrimination against people who are not 鈥減ure blood鈥� wizards. These elements suggest a regime that is top-down structured and indicates a vulnerability for corruption. However, there are moments throughout the Harry Potter series that display an exception for egalitarianism: Dumbledore鈥檚 advocacy for rights of marginalized beings and the student-led justice organization Dumbledore鈥檚 Army. The egalitarian aspects are countercurrents rather than dominant structures, as egalitarian features seem to only appear in oppositional/informal groups. It could be determined that the systemic flaws that enable injustice throughout the series is a direct result of the hierarchical consolidation of power.

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Proof-of-Concept for a Pulse Oximeter to Reduce Racial Bias in Medicine

Student Researcher: AnnaRose Heinly
Mentor:  Shawn Coulsey & Dr. Ashley Spring

Abstract: Pulse oximeters have been well documented as failing to accurately record oxygen saturation on people with darker skin tones, resulting in patients with undetected hypoxemia and contributing to the racial bias in medicine. Using two infrared LEDs and adding a Time-of-Flight algorithm (ToF) to the software will enable the operation of proof-of-concept for a significantly more accurate pulse oximeter. An Arduino Uno microcontroller was connected to two infrared LEDs and a light dependent resistor (LDR) on a breadboard, using both an Arduino IDE sketch and a Python script to gather light transmission data and ToF, resulting in values used to compute theoretical oxygen saturation. The proof-of-concept passed the testing stage, and will thus be created into a pulse oximeter to test for accuracy on humans, potentially leading to a significantly more accurate oxygen readings and saving lives.

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Bacteria Tell the Tale: Human Impact in the Indian River Lagoon

Student Researcher: Taylor Jenkin
Mentor:  Shawn Coulsey & Dr. Ashley Spring

Abstract: This study investigates bacterial contamination in the Indian River Lagoon, a biologically diverse estuary within Brevard County鈥檚 intracoastal waterway. Coastal water pollution, particularly fecal contamination, poses significant public health risks and economic consequences for surrounding communities. To examine these effects, water samples were collected at three undisturbed sites and three highly disturbed sites with boat ramps and public parks along the Indian River Lagoon. The samples were cultured on Mannitol Salt Agar and Eosin Methylene Blue agar to detect the presence of Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Escherichia coli. As hypothesized, a higher quantity of bacterial species were present at highly disturbed sites compared to undisturbed sites. This research supports a relationship between disturbance and microbial water quality, contributing to efforts to protect both ecosystem integrity and public health. 

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Parental and Faculty Opinions Surrounding Active Shooters in Educational Institutions in Brevard County

Student Researcher: Ashley Kon
Mentor: Dr. Chelsie Kuhlman

Abstract: Active shooters have become an increasingly more prevalent issue in the United States in the past few decades, resulting in many preventative protocols and procedures to be put into place in educational institutions. Current policies and procedures put into place focus on reaction to an active shooter scenario, as well as preventing potential shooters from gaining access to campus while armed. Using a voluntary-response survey, data was collected from parents and faculty in Brevard County, Florida about current protocols and procedures in place at educational institutions. Participants reported that current protocols in place are effective in preventing school shootings, however they agreed that more protocols need to be put into place to fully prevent and minimize the damage of an active shooter scenario.

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Seeing the Light: Effect of Light Color on Bacterial Growth

Student Researcher: Kim Lachman
Mentor: Dr. Ashley Spring

Abstract: Bacterial contamination in healthcare, food industries, and environmental systems requires effective, non-chemical methods to control microbial growth. This study hypothesized that blue light would significantly reduce the growth of Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli compared to red, green, full-spectrum, and no light conditions. Bacterial cultures were exposed to different light treatments, and growth was measured as percent surface coverage, with results showing that red light significantly reduced overall bacterial growth (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that light color influences bacterial growth and suggest potential applications for controlling microbial populations in medical, agricultural, and ecological settings.

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Dune It Right: How Substrate Impacts Coastal Grass

Student Researcher: Kimberly Sellati Lathrop
Mentor: Dr. Ashley Spring

Abstract: This research poster blends science and visual storytelling to highlight the quiet resilience of coastal dune ecosystems. Through the lens of Panicum amarum, the design reflects the natural textures and movement of sand, emphasizing how simplicity in nature鈥攍ike native substrate鈥攃an drive stability and growth. The composition aims to mirror the balance between fragility and strength found in dune systems, inviting viewers to appreciate both the ecological function and understated beauty of coastal restoration. Abstract: Coastal dune systems along central Florida are threatened by erosion and nutrient-poor conditions that limit plant establishment and stability. This study hypothesizes that Panicum amarum grown in native sand will exhibit greater root development and higher survival following transplant than those grown in nutrient-amended substrates. Seeds were planted in both substrate types and monitored; although germination was not observed during the study period, projected results over an extended eight-month timeframe suggest improved growth and transplant success in native sand conditions. This study highlights the importance of substrate selection in restoration efforts and suggests that preserving natural substrate conditions may improve long-term dune stabilization.

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Programs and Prison Recidivism

Student Researcher: Ainsley McInnis
Mentor: Dr. Chelsie Kuhlman

Abstract: Research into the United States prison system has increasingly focused on recidivism rates. Despite previous studies, the effect of participation in educational, vocational, and psychological rehabilitation programs in prisons on recidivism remains unclear. This study examines the recidivism rates of inmates that participate in educational, vocational, and psychological rehabilitation programs while in prison. Using data from studies conducted on inmates in federal prison by academic sources, this study analyzes the recidivism rates of inmates that participate in educational, vocational, and psychological programs while in prison compared to inmates that did not participate. Studies conducted were quantitative and looked at the inmates鈥� recidivism over the course of multiple years. Findings indicate that participation in educational, vocational, and psychological programs in prison lower recidivism rates to varying degrees. Findings also indicate that the most effective type of psychological program is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These findings suggest that prisons nationally should enact educational, vocational, and CBT programs to reduce recidivism rates. While enacting these programs will be an additional cost to prisons, it will ultimately help reduce costs by reducing recidivism rates and thus the overcrowding problem in prisons.

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Effects of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Enrichment on Population Recovery Dynamics of the Harpacticoid Copepod Tisbe biminiensis in Simulated Estuarine Microcosms

Student Researcher: Kat Mihelarakis
Mentor: Dr. Ashley Spring

Abstract: Nutrient pollution from fertilizer runoff is a major stressor on estuarine ecosystems, yet its effects on zooplankton recovery dynamics remain understudied. This study examined how fertilizer composition influences population decline and recovery in the benthic harpacticoid copepod Tisbe biminiensis, a key species in estuarine food webs. Microcosms containing water collected from the Indian River Lagoon and cultured T. biminiensis copepods were exposed to repeated doses of balanced N:P:K 20-20-20, nitrogen-heavy 46-0-0, and phosphate-heavy 0-46-0 fertilizers over a period of 28 days. Population density was determined using 1 mL subsamples, with individuals categorized as nauplii, juveniles, and adults. Nitrogen-heavy treatments produced the highest declines in population density and the slowest recovery, with populations becoming increasingly adult-dominated. In comparison, phosphate-heavy treatments maintained higher stability and faster recovery rates. These results suggest that nitrogen pollution impairs copepod recruitment and recovery rates, likely due to eutrophication. As benthic harpacticoid copepods like T. biminiensis are the primary food source for larval and juvenile fish in estuarine systems such as the IRL, a decline in population density has potential negative consequences for trophic transfer and fish recruitment.

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An Evaluation of Support Systems and Student Satisfaction in Sonography Education

Student Researcher: Hannah Miller
Mentor: Jaci Holderby

Abstract: My research is based on my observations during volunteering at 麻豆成人电影's Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs require both technical skill development and strong support systems. Hypothesis: volunteers may help play a key role in enhancing student learning outcomes, clinical confidence, and overall experience. An anonymous survey was distributed to current students in 麻豆成人电影's Diagnostic Medical Sonography program to determine if the hypothesis is valid. Overall findings underscore the program's strengths while providing valuable insight into opportunities for improving student support and healthcare education.

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Serial Killer Preferences of Victim Selection

Student Researcher: Madison Morgan
Mentor: Dr. Chelsie Kuhlman

Abstract: This paper is about the factors that influence how serial killers select their victims using psychological, sociological, and criminological perspectives. The selection of victims for serial killers is rarely random, although there are a few rare cases. It鈥檚 often decided by a combination
of internal motivations like lust, and then when they are given the opportunity they try and recreate your personal fantasies. Alongside this, the paper investigates how learned behavior and escalation contribute to victim selection. Doing anything for awhile will give a person experience, and that includes murder. Serial killers usually start by killing animals at a young age, which later leads to them killing people. Overall, this paper explains and investigates the reasons behind victim selection.

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Investigating the Impact of Biomaterial Scaffolds on Neuroregeneration and Behavioral Recovery in Gryllodes sigillatus: A Comparative Study of Juvenile and Adult Developmental Stages Post-Nerve Injury on Banded Crickets

Student Researcher: Mariajose Nazar Garcia
Mentor: Dr. Kirstin Cutshaw

Abstract: The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is critical to invertebrate survival, yet nerve regeneration across developmental stages remains poorly understood. While C. elegans and Drosophila have advanced foundational knowledge of axon regeneration, both face significant limitations in regenerative capacity and anatomical complexity, making Gryllodes sigillatus (banded crickets) a more robust and accessible model. This study aims to investigate how biomaterial hydrogel scaffolds influence hinge leg nerve recovery in juvenile (~2wk) and adult (~4-5wk) G.sigillatus, using their accessible nervous system and SpikerBox compatibility as key advantages. We propose four hydrogel scaffolds for PNS regeneration: natural (gelatin/genipin), synthetic (PEG), hybrid (alginate-gelatin/CaCl鈧�), and conductive (activated carbon-gelatin). Our cost-effective hydrogels were selected for their extracellular matrix(ECM)-mimicking properties, and tunable crosslinking chemistry, which determine their capacity to support cellular adhesion, axonal guidance, and scaffold degradation aligned with nerve recovery timelines. Recovery will be assessed through camera grid-referenced behavioral tracking, electrophysiological spike analysis in SIGVIEW, and tinted microscopy of hinge leg tissue at post-injury intervals. We hypothesize that juvenile crickets will exhibit superior recovery due to greater regenerative capacity, and that hybrid and conductive scaffolds will outperform natural and synthetic groups through combined structural, biochemical, and electroactive support. Findings will contribute to a broader understanding of biomaterial-assisted PNS repair in invertebrates, with implications for peripheral nerve regeneration research in vertebrate models. This work further demonstrates that meaningful neuro-engineering research is achievable in resource-limited settings using ethical invertebrate models.

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Adapting Dietary Traditions in a Multicultural Society

Student Researcher: Alice Pedersen
Mentor: Dr. Chelsie Kuhlman

Abstract: This research study aimed to use the understanding of different dietary practices to show both the similarities and differences in people鈥檚 brains regarding food across cultures. Furthermore, since this study looked at adolescences and young adults, reinforcing how the brain can be persuaded during these ages will also be important for understanding mental development. There were a few limitations to this experimental research. Those small sample sizes make it difficult to get a wide variety of cultural backgrounds. Yet in the small sample, subjects were shown to have a range of feelings and thoughts around food in their own culture and the multicultural society of the USA.

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A Comparative Analysis of Colony Counts at Measured Intervals Along the Indian and Banana Rivers Extending to Dragon Point

Student Researcher: Logan Robinson
Mentor: Dr. John Newby

Abstract: Water quality is a critical factor in supporting healthy ecosystems 
and ensuring public safety. One common method for assessing 
water quality is measuring bacterial colony counts, which can 
indicate levels of contamination from environmental or human 
sources. The Indian River and Banana River are part of a connected 
estuarine system in Florida that experiences varying levels of 
human activity, runoff, and water flow. These factors can influence 
microbial populations in the water. This study investigates how bacterial colony counts vary across multiple locations along these waterways, moving southward toward Dragon Point. By comparing colony counts at measured distances, this research aims to find spatial patterns and potential environmental influences on bacterial concentration.

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Impact of Phosphorus Enrichment on Anabaena Growth and the Validation of Absorbance at 680 nm as a Biomass Proxy

Student Researcher: Alexis Salcedo
Mentor: Ramona Smith

Abstract: Phosphorus enrichment is a key driver of cyanobacterial growth in freshwater systems, yet the relationship between commonly used absorbance measurements and actual cell density is not always directly quantified. This study investigated how increasing phosphorus concentrations influence the growth of Anabaena and evaluated whether absorbance at 680 nm can be used as a reliable proxy for cell density. It was hypothesized that higher phosphorus concentrations would result in increased Anabaena growth and that absorbance would be positively correlated with cell density. Anabaena cultures were grown under controlled laboratory conditions and exposed to three phosphorus concentrations representing low, moderate, and elevated nutrient availability. Growth was monitored through absorbance measurements taken over time, and cell density was estimated using direct counting methods and linear regression analysis. Absorbance increased across all treatments, with higher phosphorus concentrations corresponding to greater values. A one-way ANOVA indicated a statistically significant difference among treatments, and post hoc analysis identified differences between specific groups. Linear regression demonstrated a strong relationship between absorbance and cell density (R虏 = 0.9505), supporting the use of absorbance as a proxy for biomass. Estimated cell densities increased with phosphorus concentration, reflecting consistent trends across both measurement approaches. These findings indicate that increasing phosphorus availability is associated with increased Anabaena growth and demonstrate that absorbance-based methods provide a reliable and practical approach for estimating cyanobacterial biomass in laboratory studies.

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Primed to Underperform: The Effects of Stereotype Threat on Students

Student Researcher: Sruthi Sharma
Mentor: Sally Winters

Abstract: Stereotype threat is a psychological phenomenon in which individuals underperform when exposed to statements that address negative stereotypes about them as a whole, a specific part of their identity or a group that the person is associated with. This study examined how stereotype threat affects the academic performance of students aged 13-19 years old, looking for differences in performance between females and other gender groups (i.e. male, nonbinary, etc). The experiment was conducted by referring each individual from the ~30 person control group to one form (A, B, or C). Form A tested the impact of negative priming on academic performance and confidence/anxiety levels; Form B was neutral, meaning it didn't have a bias statement; and Form C tested the impact of positive priming on students. All forms included the same questions, both academic and regarding self-perception. The academic questions were intentionally designed to be accessible to anyone of any age and academic background, involving questions from geography to standard English to basic algebra. It was hypothesized that students exposed to negative stereotype cues would perform worse and report lower confidence, while students exposed to positive cues would show improved self-perception and performance compared to a neutral condition. Results showed that differences in quiz performance across conditions were small, with students demonstrating relatively stable accuracy. However, notable differences emerged in self-perception and fairness ratings. Students who were negatively primed reported lower confidence and perceived fairness, while those who were positively primed reported higher confidence and more positive perceptions of the testing environment. These findings, further analyzed by careful data collection via ANOVA scans, suggest that while subtle stereotype priming may not dramatically alter performance among high-achieving students, it significantly affects emotional and psychological responses to testing. This study highlights the importance of considering mindset and fairness when designing academic assessments.

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Effects of Dental Restorative Materials on Streptococcus mutans Growth

Student Researcher: Natalia Sierra
Mentor: Dr. William Stewart

Abstract: Dental caries are strongly associated with Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium that contributes to biofilm formation and enamel demineralization. This study investigated how different dental restorative materials influence the growth of S. mutans. Composite resin (Z250), amalgam, and glass ionomer were molded into standardized discs, exposed to S. mutans, and plated onto tryptic soy agar (TSA). After monitoring and measuring the bacterial growth on each plate, results showed that amalgam demonstrated the strongest inhibitory effect on S. mutans, while glass ionomer and composite resin (Z250) displayed greater bacterial growth. These findings indicate that amalgam may contribute to decreased bacterial growth. This emphasizes the importance of material composition on decay risk and restoration longevity.

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Neurobiological Links between Gambling Disorder and Vitamin D Deficiency

Student Researcher: Tiffany Unsworth
Mentor: Tracy Morgan

Abstract: As various forms of gambling continue to grow in popularity across the globe, so do the rising cases of disordered gambling. Even casinos themselves are specifically designed to lure and keep their customers playing by removing all sense of passing time through the lack of windows and clocks. This study seeks to examine the possible relationships between Vitamin D deficiency and Gambling Disorder Severity, which includes the effects on impulse control and emotional regulation. Data will be gathered through a literature review, using various research articles focused on Vitamin D deficiencies in various disorders, and those focused on Gambling Disorder. No conclusions have been drawn thus far; however, future studies will include surveying volunteers on their gambling habits and exposure to the sun as well as the possible intake of Vitamin D supplements to examine neurobiological relationships even further.

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Fictional Bonds, Real Emotions: The Impact of Parasocial Attachment on Adult Well-Being

Student Researcher: Jayla Williams
Mentor: Dr. Chelsie Kuhlman

Abstract: This literature review examines the relationship between parasocial attachment to fictional characters and psychological well-being among adult readers. Research on parasocial relationships has increasingly focused on how one-sided emotional bonds with social media figures can influence thoughts, emotions, and social interaction. However, it is still unclear how these relationships specifically affect well-being in adult readers and whether their effects are always positive. The purpose of this study is to explore how parasocial attachment to fictional characters relates to psychological well-being and how the intensity of these attachments influences their impact. Using peer-reviewed sources from EBSCOhost, Gale Academic OneFile, and Google Scholar, this study takes a qualitative approach to analyze existing research in media psychology. It focuses on key factors such as emotional attachment, empathy, social cognition, and the level of engagement readers have with fictional characters. Findings show that parasocial relationships can have positive effects, such as increasing empathy, improving social awareness, and helping with identity exploration. They can also provide a sense of comfort and companionship. However, the research also shows that these effects are not always positive. Strong emotional attachment to fictional characters can sometimes lead to stress, confusion, or feeling emotionally overwhelmed. In addition, the impact often depends on how intense the attachment is, which can be influenced by factors like similarity, attractiveness, and how realistic the character feels. These findings suggest that parasocial attachment can support well-being in healthy amounts but can become harmful when it becomes too intense. This review helps explain how connections to fictional characters can influence emotions and highlight the importance of balance.

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Analysis and Effectiveness of Natural Versus OTC Pain Relievers

Student Researcher: Blake Wolanin
Mentor: Dr. Amel Garbou

Abstract: This experiment compares the chemical composition/structure of naturally-occurring and man-made painkillers Ginger, ginger with black pepper, and turmeric will be compared to acetylsalicylic acid, acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Thin-layer and high-performance liquid chromatography will analyze these substances and absorption tested using hydrochloric acid to simulate physiological conditions.

 

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