2nd Floor Hallway
Session 1 - 3:30-4:15pm (1-39)
Session 2 - 4:20-5:05pm (46-84)
Session 3 - 5:10-5:55pm (84-125)
Exhibition Hall (UCC2520D)
EH Session 1 - 3:45-4:45pm (40-45)
EH Session 2 - 5:00-5:55pm (126-148)
1 | Waad Abdella (Biochemistry, 2025) Infection dynamics of disease associated S. suis (DASS) at farrowing. The primary aim of this study is to comprehensively examine the infection dynamics of disease-associated S. suis (DASS) during farrowing. The research involves the analysis of 1000 antemortem pig samples to characterize the distribution of DASS in sows and their litters. To achieve this, bacterial culture and isolation techniques were utilized, followed by DNA extraction. PCR testing is conducted using two distinct assays—one targeting the broader S. suis species and the other specifically focusing on disease-associated S. suis. This dual approach aims to help us examine the intricate movement patterns of DASS within pig populations. Through meticulous data compilation and analysis, we intend to gain valuable insights into the transmission and prevalence of DASS. Understanding infection patterns is crucial for informing the development of innovative control programs to mitigate the impact of this significant pathogen in swine populations. |
2 | Asha Alla (Biomedical Engineering, Spring 2024) Identifying Regulators of Nuclear Actin Via Deficiency Screening Nuclear actin, a once under-looked structural component of the cell, has now been established as a having a key role in regulation of gene expression. The purpose of my project is to try and identify novel proteins that interact with nuclear actin. Using Drosophila melanogaster, I conducted a genetic screen to observe the interactions between Importin 9, a known nuclear actin importer, and deletions in varying genes throughout the genome and how these interactions affected fertility. The screen was split into three phases: observing egg counts, counting progeny, and observation of stained ovaries using microscopy. Since entering the third phase, I have discovered that a co-deficiency in Importin 9 and a sizable portion of chromosome 2L is associated with cell death in oogenesis. Future direction would entail narrowing down which gene may be associated with this phenomenon and its mechanism of action. |
3 | Veda Amalkar (Biomedical Sciences, Spring 2025) Role of miR-204 in segmental cardiac effects of phenylephrine and pressure overload The accidental overdose of drugs or endogenous release of chemicals that cause cardiac stress leads to transient regional dysfunction in the heart. The stressed hearts have a compensatory increase in the expression of a protective small non-coding RNA known as miR-204. Our goal in this study was to determine the impact of miR-204 on the regional differences in cardiac muscle movement during cardiac stress induced by either phenylephrine (PE) treatment or transaortic constriction (TAC) to cause pressure overload. We used wild-type and miR-204 deficient mice. Using speckle-tracking echocardiography, we assessed cardiac muscle motion in the different segments of the left ventricle (posterior and anterior-apical, mid, and basal segments). PE treatment increased longitudinal and radial motion in the apex of the left ventricle and shortened the peak motion time of all left ventricle segments. TAC led to decreased longitudinal and radial motion in all the left ventricle segments, with no difference in the peak motion time. PE-induced peak cardiac muscle motion time in the anterior base of the left ventricle was significantly earlier in miR-204 deficient mice than in wild-type. Our findings highlight the role of miR-204 in regulating cardiac muscle motion and demonstrate that PE and TAC induce regional wall motion abnormalities. |
4 | Colin Behr (Business Analytics and Information Systems and Marketing Analytics, Spring 2024) Creating a Play Recommendation System for the Chicago Bears Utilizing various on and off field conditions such as location on the field, the surface and roof type of the stadium, remaining game time, current offensive ranking, opponent defensive ranking, current weather conditions, current quarterback/key players, and player fatigue we estimate plays that should be ran given the combination of features of the current situation. By utilizing various conditions, we can create a unique SituationID to run through an Alternating Least Squares (ALS) algorithm that returns the play(s) that is/are estimated to be the best to run given all conditions surrounding the current situation. |
5 | Rey Bernhard (Neuroscience, Spring 2025) Task Switching in Pigeons When humans switch between tasks, they tend to be slower and less accurate, because they have to reconfigure their mind setting. Pigeons rely on associative learning mechanisms so they may not show this cost of switching tasks. Here, we examined task switching in pigeons. Pigeons were presented with two different tasks. One task required the pigeons to discriminate between “light” and “dark” values of grey; the other task required them to discriminate between magnitudes, “few” or “many” circles in a display. This design allowed us to examine the effects of repetition and alternation of task, stimulus, and response. We found that task repetition per se did not have an effect on pigeon performance, but stimulus and response repetition did. Thus, we did not find interference because of higher-order ability to conceptualize the task—as is the case in humans—but we did find associative interference from previously presented stimuli and responses. Future research will allow for a deeper understanding of the task-switching advantages provided by associative learning and help fuel further human productivity and efficiency. |
8 | Grace Clemens (Public Health and a certificate in Entrepreneurial Management, Spring 2025) Multigenerational Family Health Aging This semester I have focused on research. I have had the opportunity to work with an amazing team that has helped me step by step throughout the process thus far. The project we have been working on is looking at multigenerational families in the United States and their health and wellbeing. I began transcribing an interview and slowly working my way further into the process. I have been working on covidence, a plantform used to sort through articles about multigenerational families and deciding if they fit in with our study. I have also looked into places to find other potential people to interview. Although this is ongoing I have done a lot so far and hope to do more. I hope to sit in an interview and potentially see how everything happens with my own eyes. All in all this has helped me realize that research is potentially a career path for me. |
9 | Elaina Dawley (Speech and Hearing Science, Spring 2024) Title: Nonword Repetition Performance Under Conditions of Task Interference: The Role of Sequence Length and Phonotactic Probability Nonword repetition tasks (NWR) have been used for several decades to investigate aspects of both disordered and typical language development. More recently these tasks have been used with adults, including work on the maintenance of speech production abilities in typical aging. However, NWR has often been carried out under laboratory conditions that do not reflect real-world scenarios, in which multiple distracting stimuli or task demands are present. Here, we examine NWR in young adults, with and without simultaneous visuomotor task demands. We predicted that NWR would be more robust to task interference as a function of overall sequence length. Moreover, we predicted that higher phonotactic probabilities would interact with sequence length, such that subjects would be more robust to task interference effects for longer sequences that had higher probabilities. Stimuli included nonwords varying in length and phonotactic probability. The experiment was counterbalanced such that half of the participants carried out a simultaneous visuomotor task during the first half of the experiment only, while the other half of participants experienced an interference-free, standard nonword repetition task during the first half. We discuss the results and their theoretical as well as potential clinical implications. |
10 | Dominica Eckstrom (Human Physiology, Spring 2025) Exploring FGF21'S Acute Insulin Potentiation Insulin resistance affects over 100 million Americans. Individuals diagnosed with diabetes are at a greater risk for developing coronary artery disease, stroke, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. FGF21 is an endogenously produced hormone secreted by the liver under conditions of high carbohydrate intake, low protein diets, and fasting. Pharmacological FGF21 administration increases insulin sensitivity and can also decrease body weight. FGF21 increases insulin stimulated glucose uptake in brown adipocytes when co-administered with insulin. Phosphoproteomics data from FGF21 treated adipocytes identified phosphorylation of proteins involved in GLUT4 trafficking. We are investigating the interplay between FGF21 and insulin signaling to elucidate its therapeutic mechanism of action in BAT. |
11 | Megan Fear (Speech And Hearing Sciences, Spring 2024) Feasibility of Ecological Momentary Assessments for Adolescents with Hearing Loss We examined the feasibility of ecological momentary assessments in adolescents with hearing loss and adolescents with typical hearing through utilization of scheduled smartphone surveys tailored with short-answer questions about the participant’s hearing environment, listening activity, and fatigue. The current feasibility study addresses the following questions: (1) What is the compliance rate for EMA with adolescents? (2) Do feasibility responses in the exit interviews differ based on session? (3) Do feasibility responses in the exit interviews differ based on hearing status? Ten adolescents with typical hearing and 10 adolescents who were hard of hearing completed this study. Participants’ ages, on average, were 16.8 years for typically hearing individuals and 15.6 years for hard of hearing individuals. Participants were instructed to complete a total of 8 surveys per day over a one-week sampling period in both the summer and during the school year. Nine out of 10 of the typically hearing adolescents and 7 out of 10 of the hard of hearing adolescents completed the surveys during both school year and summer sessions. |
12 | Darby Forsyth (Biology, Spring 2025) Extreme Heat Alters Lung Gene Expression Related to Inflammatory Response As global temperatures rise due to climate change, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the health impacts of extreme heat becomes crucial. Employing RNA sequencing, we examined changes in gene expression and associated pathway responses to an acute extreme heat exposure, hypothesizing that heat causes inflammatory genetic alterations. To test this hypothesis, mice were randomly assigned to heat-exposed, control, and pair-fed groups. Heat-exposed mice were housed singly and placed in an incubator, and the temperature was increased over 8 hours (20℃-38℃) and held at 38℃ for 5 minutes. Control and pair-fed mice were left at ~23.2°C. Controls and heat-exposed were given food and water ad libitum while pair-fed were given food and water based on the previous day’s heat-exposed consumption. Mice were euthanized, lung tissue was collected for RNA isolation. Males and female mice showed no variation in overall gene expression throughout treatment groups, with potential female outliers. However, further analysis depicted significant differentially expressed genes in heat-exposed vs. control and heat-exposed vs. pair-fed. Many KEGG enrichment pathways were altered based on changes in gene expression after heat exposure including inflammatory pathways in both male and female mice. These findings suggest that inflammatory genetic alterations are increased after acute heat exposure. |
13 | Zach Grissom (Microbiology, Spring 2024) The Role of Non-Coding RNA Polymerase III Transcripts in Restricting Viral Replication Murine gammaherpesvirus 68 (MHV68) is a model virus that allows us to study processes shared with human gammaherpesviruses, like Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus, that cause cancer in the immunocompromised. One characteristic of gammaherpesvirus infection is the ability of these viruses to elicit the production of non-coding RNA transcripts made by the cellular RNA polymerase III (Pol3) in host cells. Brf1 is part of a transcription factor complex necessary, along with Pol3, for transcription of transfer RNAs, 5S rRNA, vault RNAs, among others. We have previously shown that reducing the amount of Brf1 in host cells results in a proviral state where MHV68 replicates more efficiently, suggesting that Pol3 transcripts may block viral replication. To explore how these abundant non-coding RNAs made by Pol3 contribute to the antiviral response, we aim to use a plasmid to overexpress a Pol3 transcript panel in MHV68-infected cells. After validating overexpression of Pol3 transcripts in murine fibroblasts by real time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), we aim to determine if specific Pol3 transcripts from our panel block infectious MHV68 virus production. This work will delineate the role that select non-coding Pol3 transcripts have in the innate cellular antiviral response and will contribute to novel antiviral therapeutic strategies. |
14 | Molly Guerra (Psychology, Spring 2024) The Association Between Parenting Stress and Children's Internalizing Problems: Investigating Negative Emotionality as a Moderator Internalizing problems in childhood are relatively stable and can develop into pervasive disorders in adolescence, such as anxiety and depression. Research has shown that parenting stress is associated with internalizing problems in children. Prior studies have also established that a child’s ability to regulate their emotions can serve as a protective factor against internalizing psychopathology. However, previous studies have not examined the interaction between parenting stress (e.g., daily hassles) and negative emotionality on internalizing problems in childhood. Thus, the present study investigated the association between parenting daily hassles and children’s internalizing problems with negative emotionality as a moderator. The sample consisted of parents and children aged 3–7 (N=195) recruited from the community. Caregivers completed questionnaires regarding their child’s negative affect and internalizing problems as well as parenting daily hassles. Children’s negative emotionality was assessed using a behavioral task. Results indicated a significant interaction between parenting daily hassles and negative emotionality on children’s internalizing problems. Specifically, for children with caregivers with high levels of parenting stress, higher levels of negative emotionality exacerbated risk for internalizing problems. Findings suggest that targeted interventions for caregivers and children with high stress and negative emotionality may help decrease the risk of internalizing problems. |
15 | Jillian Hall (Microbiology, Fall 2024) Clinical and Histological Correlations in C3 Glomerulopathy C3 Glomerulopathy, or C3G, is an ultrarare kidney disease that results from dysregulation of our immune system’s alternative complement pathway. Patients typically progress to End-Stage Renal Disease within 10 years of diagnosis, requiring dialysis and ultimately kidney transplant. The clinical tests often used to measure kidney function in C3G patients are Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR), serum C3, and the Urine Protein/Creatinine ratio (UPC). The current standard of care for C3G includes ACEi and ARB medications to reduce hypertension and immunosuppressive medications like CellCept and Prednisone. Eculizumab is also used to inhibit complement activity, however this medication is seldom available due to its expense. The onset of C3G is very similar to other renal conditions, so a kidney biopsy is required for accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are evaluated by pathologists and scored to measure disease chronicity and acuity. My project, Clinical and Histological Correlations in C3 Glomerulopathy, analyzes the relationship between these histological scores and patient lab results at onset and over time. The goal of this project is to determine whether the characteristics of renal biopsy at the disease onset are suggestive of patient prognosis and to evaluate whether the standard of care for C3G is effective in preventing disease progression. |
17 | Njenga Kamau (Genetics & Biotechnology, Fall 2024) Effects of Overexpression of Placental Igf-1 in Mice on Striatal Development at Three Timepoints Placental gene expression of essential growth hormones plays a crucial role in fetal brain development, and changes in expression of placentally produced hormones may contribute to the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Previous research indicates a link between elevated placental levels of Insulin-like growth factor 1 (Igf-1), a primarily placentally produced hormone, in mice after prenatal stress, a known risk factor for NDDs. The striatum also has the highest expression of the Igf-1 Receptor in the brain. This brain region is involved in restrictive and repetitive behavior, something people with NDDs struggle with. Additionally, the striatum is enlarged in some with NDDs. These previous findings indicate a role of placental Igf-1 in striatal development. We hypothesized that overexpression of placental Igf-1 would lead to accelerated striatal growth, causing an enlarged striatal as associated with some NDDs. To test this, we induced placental Igf-1 overexpression in mice and examined striatal volume and cell density at embryonic day 14 (E14) and E18, as well as in adult mice. Results showed a specific increase in striatal volume compared to controls at E18 but not E14. Analysis of the adult striatum is ongoing. This finding suggests that placental Igf-1 overexpression can impact striatal development. |
18 | Yiming Liu (Biology, Spring 2024) Joshua Weiner (Biology) Synaptic change and co-pathologic states in neurodegenerative disease Neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementia, and Parkinson’s disease, are characterized by cognitive decline and the loss of neurons, neuron structure and their function. Several brain pathological markers are associated with these diseases, including mis-folding and aggregation of the proteins amyloid, tau, alpha-synuclein and TDP-43. Another hallmark of neurodegeneration is synaptic loss, synapses being the sites of cell-cell contacts in the brain transmitting electrical and chemical signals that make up neural function. Consisting of a small head connected to a thin neck, dendritic spines form the most prevalent type of chemical synapse in the brain and make up 5% of brain volume. These neuronal protrusions are structurally plastic and functionally dynamic, growing and retracting in response to signals in the local brain environment. Because of their importance in brain signaling, dendritic spine density and functional status are considered direct measures of synaptic connectivity. This study uses Golgi-Cox stained human brain tissue of deceased neurodegenerative disease patients to visualize dendritic spine pathology and changes in synaptic complexity. We compare these findings to the presence of neurodegenerative disease-associated proteins in the brain to explore the intersections between two pathologic disease markers. |
19 | Tina Liu (Chemistry, Spring 2025) Change in GFR and UPC Before and After Eculizumab in C3 Glomerulopathy C3 Glomerulopathy (C3G) is an ultra-rare kidney disease characterized by dysregulation of the alternative complement pathway. Most patients reach end-stage renal disease (ESRD) within 10 year. To compare the differences in Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) and Urine Protein-Creatinine ratio (UPC) trends in a cohort of C3G patients before and after eculizumab initiation. |
20 | Jordan Luna (Neuroscience, Post-Bacc) Levels of autistic and social anxiety symptoms do not predict atypical approach/avoidance behavior in response to emotional facial expressions in a typical population Faces convey important social information through emotional expressions. Whether someone is smiling or frowning may render others more or less likely to either approach or avoid them, respectively. Several psychiatric disorders, including autism and social anxiety, show difficulty interpreting facial emotions. We tested whether levels of psychiatric symptoms in a typical population predicted approach-avoidance bias to emotional facial expressions. Using an online version of the Approach Avoidance Task [1] we measured reaction times when adult participants (n = 48) were instructed to approach or avoid happy and angry facial expressions [2]. Participants were faster to approach positive and avoid negative expressions, and were slower to avoid positive and approach negative expressions, replicating a compatibility bias. We then investigated whether the bias varied with levels of autistic and social anxiety symptoms [3, 4], however, we did not find an effect on participants’ approach-avoidance behavior, even when comparing low and high symptom levels, or when using different bias measures. In sum, levels of autistic and social anxiety symptoms in a typical population did not affect approach-avoidance behavior toward positive and negative emotional facial expressions. Future work may benefit from more naturalistic stimuli and from including individuals with Autism and Social Anxiety diagnoses. [1] Rougier, M., Muller, D., Ric, F., Alexopoulos, T., Batailler, C., Smeding, A., & Aubé, B. (2018). A new look at sensorimotor aspects in approach/avoidance tendencies: The role of visual whole-body movement information. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 76, 42–53. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jesp.2017.12.004 [2] Ma, D., Correll, J., & Wittenbrink, B. (2015). The Chicago face database: A free stimulus set of faces and norming data. Behavior Research Methods, 47, 1122-1135. https://doi.org/10.3758/s13428-014-0532-5 [3] Baron-Cohen, S., Wheelwright, S., Skinner, R., Martin, J., & Clubley, E. (2001). The Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ): Evidence from Asperger Syndrome/high-functioning autism, males and females, scientists and mathematicians. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 31, 5-17 https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1005653411471 [4] Heimberg, R. G., Horner, K. J., Juster, H. R., Safren, S. A., Brown, E. J., Schneier, F. R., & Liebowitz, M. R. (1999). Psychometric properties of the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale. Psychological medicine, 29(1), 199–212. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0033291798007879 |
21 | Sara Magdziarz (Biomedical Engineering, May 2024) Impact of Forefoot Biasing Footwear on Peak Achilles Tendon Force and Ankle Range of Motion During Rehabilitative Exercises Achilles Tendinopathy (AT) is a common painful condition limiting mobility and athletic performance. AT is primarily treated conservatively using exercise programs which progressively increase Achilles tendon loading. Footwear that biases loading to the forefoot has been used to increase vertical jump height and may facilitate desirable increases in ankle motion and tendon loading during exercises used to treat AT. The purpose of this research is to determine the effects of forefoot biasing footwear on Achilles tendon load and ankle biomechanics during exercises used to treat AT. Twenty participants completed level ground walking and six AT rehabilitation exercises with athletic shoes alone, and with forefoot biasing footwear, in randomized order. Computerized motion analysis was used to quantify ankle joint biomechanics. Forefoot biasing footwear had limited effect on peak Achilles force and sagittal plane ankle power. Despite most activities maintaining similar ankle range of motion, forefoot biasing footwear shifted the range into a more dorsiflexed position, increasing peak dorsiflexion and decreasing peak plantarflexion for most activities. These data suggest that footwear alterations are unlikely to meaningfully alter peak forces but may positively alter ankle kinematics to promote tendon healing. |
22 | Calvin McElvain (Analytical Economics, Spring 2024) What do you Expect? Revisiting Expectation Formation Models Professional forecasters play a crucial role in shaping economic expectations, yet their forecasts often exhibit systematic biases, as evidenced by prior surveys. This thesis embarks on a reassessment of these biases using contemporary data, replicating prominent explanatory models of inflation and other economic variables. Initial estimates and statistical analyses align with existing literature, underscoring the persistence of these biases. However, determining which models offer a superior fit remains subject to interpretation and further estimation. Beyond replicating established models, this thesis dives into more intricate frameworks that incorporate behavioral factors to enhance understanding of expectation formation. While the findings are still evolving, this study aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding expectation formation models and their implications for economic forecasting. |
23 | Will Meiners (Physics and Astronomy, Spring 2025) Ultrafast Spectroscopic Characterization of Long-Wave Infrared Photodetector Devices The project focuses on the advancement of long-wavelength infrared detectors for myriad applications in such areas as machine vision, security, and environmental monitoring. Long-wave detectors based on mercury cadmium telluride are high performing but require cooling and are challenging/costly to fabricate. We are developing detectors based on more manufacturable III-V semiconductor superlattices that will operate with high performance at higher temperatures. For high performance, it is important that dark current be minimized. To characterize potential noise in our materials, we are measuring carrier lifetime using ultrafast spectroscopy. The technique involves a laser pump pulse to excite carriers and a weak, delayed low photon energy laser probe pulse detects the presence of carriers. We present efforts on the experimental setup, and initial measurement of materials. |
24 | Jack Miller (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Spring 2024) The role of the nuclear lamina in survival of germline stem cells in the drosophila ovary Drosophila ovaries contain approximately fifty germline stem cells (GSCs), making them a useful model for understanding stem cell homeostasis. Germline stem cell homeostasis in the drosophila ovary requires the nuclear lamina (NL) protein emerin. Loss of emerin disrupts germline stem cell homeostasis by causing GSC death and blocking germ cell differentiation. The emerin mutants have a distorted NL, GSCs carrying centrosomes with excess pericentriolar material (PCM), and active interphase centrosomes. To test whether centrosome dysfunction causes the emerin mutant phenotype, flies were generated with active interphase centrosomes. To test whether NL distortion causes the emerin mutant phenotype, flies with distorted NL were generated. In both cases, confocal microscopy and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate GSC survival and differentiation, and it was determined that GSC homeostasis was maintained. When flies were generated to have both distorted NL and active interphase centrosomes, loss of GSC homeostasis was seen. Mutants of emerin and genes encoding PCM components were generated to rescue the emerin mutant phenotype, and GSC survival and germ cell differentiation were restored. Based on our findings, we predict that a combination of failures in the centrosome maturation cycle and a distortion of the NL underlie loss of stem cell homeostasis. |
25 | Campbell Mitvalsky (Cell and Developmental Biology, Spring 2024) The role of Arhgap29 in cell proliferation during the formation of the palate Arhgap29 is a small RhoA GTPase inhibitor that has been shown to regulate cell proliferation in vitro. Proliferation is crucial for the proper formation and growth of the palatal shelves during embryonic development. Previous work has demonstrated that mutations in the Arhgap29 gene are associated with cleft palate. Therefore, I hypothesize that reduced cell proliferation, because of reduced Arhgap29 levels, may contribute to cleft palate. Embryos lacking Arhgap29 in cells from the palatal shelves were used in these experiments. On embryonic day (E) 14.5, which marked the time when the palatal shelves come together to form the palate, they were sacrificed. Embryonic head sections were stained with specific antibodies to label proliferating cells. Quantification of the total cells and proliferating cells in different regions of the oral cavity was performed and the percentages of proliferating cells were calculated. Preliminary data suggest a reduction of cell proliferation in embryos with reduced Arhgap29. Should my data prove significant, it will unveil the role of Arhgap29 in the growth of palatal shelves required for proper palatogenesis. |
26 | Anderson Morgan (Biology, Spring 2024) Analyzing Endopolyploidy in freshwater snails Variation in the number of nuclear genome copies, or polyploidy, is a topic at the frontier of research in biology. Endopolyploidy, the existence of higher ploidy cells within organisms that are otherwise of a lower ploidy level (reviewed in Neiman et. al. 2017), has been implicated in the expression of genes, tissue regeneration, cancer, and complex anti-predator defense phenotypes. While endopolyploidy is common across all eukaryotes, its prevalence and function remains unclear, especially in animals. We use the invasive New Zealand freshwater snail Potamopyrgus antipodarum (“ Potamos”) to provide new insights into animal endopolyploidy. Potamos are especially well suited for this purpose because they have varying organismal ploidy levels, from diploid (2 genome copies) to triploid and tetraploid (3 and 4 genome copies, respectively). Triploid and tetraploid Potamos are asexual, allowing an important control against genetic variation generated by meiosis in sexual reproduction. In the project, we used flow cytometry to create ploidy maps of Potamos of varying ploidy levels to help illuminate the phenomenon of endopolyploidy in an important group of animals. |
26 | Precious Pate (Public Health, Spring 2024) Analyzing Endopolyploidy in freshwater snails Variation in the number of nuclear genome copies, or polyploidy, is a topic at the frontier of research in biology. Endopolyploidy, the existence of higher ploidy cells within organisms that are otherwise of a lower ploidy level (reviewed in Neiman et. al. 2017), has been implicated in the expression of genes, tissue regeneration, cancer, and complex anti-predator defense phenotypes. While endopolyploidy is common across all eukaryotes, its prevalence and function remains unclear, especially in animals. We use the invasive New Zealand freshwater snail Potamopyrgus antipodarum (“ Potamos”) to provide new insights into animal endopolyploidy. Potamos are especially well suited for this purpose because they have varying organismal ploidy levels, from diploid (2 genome copies) to triploid and tetraploid (3 and 4 genome copies, respectively). Triploid and tetraploid Potamos are asexual, allowing an important control against genetic variation generated by meiosis in sexual reproduction. In the project, we used flow cytometry to create ploidy maps of Potamos of varying ploidy levels to help illuminate the phenomenon of endopolyploidy in an important group of animals. |
27 | Neha Nagarkar (BS Neuroscience, Spring 2024) Subcortical contributions to task-evoked neural oscillations for cognitive flexibility Cognitive flexibility is the ability to flexibly guide behaviours, in accordance with internal goals or contexts. There are specific neurons that fire together to create "oscillatory patterns". When performing a task, we see a shift in those distinct oscillatory patterns of neural activity associated with the different cognitive control task periods, called task-evoked neural activity. To understand the underlying neural mechanisms of cognitive control and cognitive flexibility, we need to identify those neural signatures that reflects these processes. One candidate signal is "delta/theta neural oscillation", which can be reliably recorded using EEG, paired with cognitive tasks. A part of the brain called the thalamus is thought to coordinate and maintain task-relevant cortical representations that facilitate neural computations during the task. One of our candidate hypothesis is that cortical control representation is maintained by thalamocortical interactions (interactions between the thalamus and cortex of the brain).Therefore, our experiment wants to analyse low-frequency neural oscillation data in order to show its effects on cognitive flexibility using participants that have thalamic lesions and control subjects. |
28 | Ella Nail (Biomedical Engineering, Spring 2026) A.I. Model For Predicting Patient Mortality Using CT Scans Patients with pulmonary fibrosis have a prognosis of two to five years. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential to give patients the best chance of survival through anti-fibrotic therapies. We propose an AI model to predict mortality after 63 weeks using a single CT scan, with a goal of improving clinical outcomes for patients with complex and severe cases of pulmonary fibrosis. We trained a binary classification model using 95 3D scans. The model input is a 3D volume, and the output is a binary label indicating mortality. Overall, our model shows promise for clinical use regarding diagnosis and treatment. |
29 | Julia Roemen (Speech & Hearing Science, Spring 2024) Fast, Comprehensive Characterization of Middle Ear Muscle Reflex Dynamics In normal-hearing listeners, moderately loud sounds cause a reflex contraction of a small ear muscle, which changes the amount of sound entering the inner ear. This auditory reflex is called the middle ear muscle reflex, or MEMR. Current MEMR tests evaluate only one frequency at a time and primarily focus on the presence/absence of the reflex, without additional information about how the reflex behaves. We have developed a new, faster MEMR test that tests many frequencies in a short time frame and provides insights into the reflex dynamics. We administered our new test to 30 young normal hearing participants and collected data about the reflex onset and offset thresholds, maximum total change, onset delay, and hysteresis. Our novel MEMR test produced reliable measurements in 2 minutes, suggesting potential clinical relevance in the future. |
30 | Chloe Rohlf (Speech & Hearing, Spring 2024) Two-Directional Mendelian Randomization Between Tinnitus and Neuroticism Tinnitus, a condition defined as ringing or noise in the ears or head, often accompanies feelings of anxiety and emotional difficulties, known as neuroticism. While past studies hint at a link between tinnitus and neuroticism, they did not confirm a cause-and-effect relationship due to limitations of the observational research design. To investigate whether tinnitus and neuroticism are causally associated, this research utilizes Mendelian randomization (MR). MR is often described as a nature's randomized control trial. Genetic variants are randomly distributed and cannot be changed by lifestyle and environmental factors; therefore, the MR framework could be used to obtain strong causal inferences. We conducted a two-directional MR experiment between tinnitus and neuroticism. Our results provided supporting evidence to suggest that neuroticism can cause tinnitus. However, there was not enough evidence to support the hypothesis that tinnitus can cause neuroticism. Future genetic studies with larger sample sizes are required to investigate the causal relationship between tinnitus and neuroticism. |
31 | Olivia Schuelka (Religious Studies and Psychology, Spring 2027) The Branch Davidian Massacre I will be researching the death of the Branch Davidians via fire set to their compound located in Waco, Texas in 1993. My research will explore what the Brach Davidian is and what role the government had to play in the death of the Brach Davidians; specifically, whether or not the government set the fire that killed them. |
32 | Divija Sharma (Psychology, Fall 2024) First Information is the Last Information Decision makers often establish an early preference after being exposed to preliminary information about their choices—and this early preference can affect how subsequent information about choice options is processed. Importantly, such ‘information distortion’ can have a substantial influence on people’s final judgments and decisions. In this study, we aim to test the role of information distortion when making predictions about future outcomes. In this study, participants are presented with basic information about two job applicants and asked to make predictions about who got the job at an architecture firm. Even though the resume designs are equivalent in quality, we predict that participants would have a leading alternative that would influence their later evaluations and predictions about other components of the applications such as cover letters and ultimately who got the job. This demonstrates how information distortion extends to a level beyond personal preferences, i.e., to factual analysis as well. |
33 | Sawyer Shiffler (Music, Spring 2024) Virtual Pipe Organ Dr. Hand and I acquired an old theater organ that had some electronic components built in already. We were able to manipulate those components to plug in to a software that can replicate pipe organs around the world. I developed valuable organ building skills because my job was wiring these things together. |
34 | Ciara Tapanes (Linguistics, Spring 2024) Are you going to Yale or Jail? The case of /i/ in Spanish-English bilinguals Part of being bilingual necessarily includes learning two sound systems. In this study, we examine what it means when these two sound systems influence one another in production. Fifteen Spanish-English bilinguals produced words with the sounds that occur in words such as “yellow” and “jello” in each of their languages. We analyzed the intensity of the target sound compared to the word. Results reveal both individual and group-level variability. We discuss what this means for the development of bilinguals’ phonology and speech production in each of their languages. |
35 | Maggie Tinman (Biology, Fall 2024) Creation of a functional tagged version of the DNA damage repair protein RAD-51 DNA damage is any change resulting in a chemically altered structure of DNA with the most detrimental form of damage being a double-stranded break (DSB). One of the main DSB repair pathways is homologous recombination (HR). Homologous recombination is used during meiosis to repair SPO-11 induced DSBs that allow the homologous chromosomes to form crossovers that are essential for the successful exchange of genetic information. RAD-51 is a highly conserved, essential HR protein and due to its localization to break sites, RAD-51 foci are used as a marker for DSBs in immunofluorescence analysis. Our research has involved the creation of multiple epitope tagged versions of RAD-51 in C. elegans that result in different phenotypes regarding functionality in the HR pathway in meiosis. We have found that the iFLAG2::rad-51 strain appears to follow HR pathway close to wild-type. A functional tagged version of RAD-51 will have a wide range of applications in DNA damage response experiments, specifically in the visualization of the steps in the homologous recombination pathway. |
36 | Aditi Tripathy (Biomedical Sciences, Spring 2025) Sleep Disturbances and Their Relation to Anxiety Symptoms in Children and Adolescents Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health conditions to affect teenagers in the United States. The primary goal of the present study is to determine whether children with anxiety disorders have disrupted sleep compared to a demographically-matched non-clinical comparison group. 43 participants between the ages of 9 and 13 wore an actigraphy watch (a wristwatch that is designed to record data on sleep and activity) for one week. Additionally, we collected parent-reported and clinical data across several domains, including depression, anxiety, internalizing behaviors and externalizing symptoms, and self-reported sleep quality. Self-reported clinical data involving depression (t(39)=2.35, p=.02), anxiety (t(39)=5.21, p=.006,), and internalizing behaviors (t(34)=3.61, p<.001) were all higher in the anxiety group than the control group. Along with that, parent reported clinical data involving depression (t(39)=5.21, p<.001), anxiety ((t(39)=5.18, p<.001), and internalizing behaviors (t(38)=6.60, p<.001) were higher in the anxiety group than the control group. Day-to-day variability in sleep duration was found to be significantly and positively correlated with PDSS scores (r=.35, p=.04). Self-reported anxiety scores were also found to be positively correlated (r=.36, p=.03) with wake after sleep onset (the amount of time spent awake after falling asleep). The results are in line with previous literature which finds that children and adolescents with anxiety disorders show reliable subjective reports of greater wake after sleep onset duration. These findings also emphasize the prevalence of sleep disturbances among adolescents with anxiety disorders, highlighting the importance of addressing them within treatment protocols. |
37 | Kelly Vu (Pharmacy, Spring 2025) The Perspectives of a Convenience Sample of Japanese Individuals on Herbal Medicine and Kampo Use for Pain Management My project explores how Japanese patients perceive Kampo, a traditional or herbal medicine, for managing pain including premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Kampo is a traditional Japanese herbal medicine with potential benefits for pain and PMS symptoms. By surveying and interviewing Japanese patients who have experienced pain, I aim to understand their perceptions towards Kampo. This research can provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, helping them understand patient preferences and potentially integrating Kampo into treatment plans. Through this study, I hope to bridge gaps in knowledge about traditional and herbal medicine and contribute to improving patient-centered care for pain and PMS management. |
38 | Noah Wessels (Physics, Spring 2025) Topological Magnons in the Bi-layer Honeycomb Ferromagnet Over the last couple of years, magnetic systems have also been shown to host topological excitations. We explore the particular case of ferromagnet bi-layer honeycomb lattice which, when considering nearest- and next nearest-neighbor exchange interactions, Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction, and easy-axis anisotropy, allows for topological magnons to arise [1]. We extend the Hamiltonian of Ref. [1] via the inclusion of extra interlayer interactions, in addition to various layers stack, i.e. A-B stacking or A-A stacking. We show this Hamiltonian hosts topological magnons that are controllable via the interlayer interactions. Most importantly, these new interactions provide a novel way to tailor and engineer different topological magnon frequency dispersion. Finally, we also calculate the magnon thermal Hall conductivity as a function of temperature and magnetic field. [1] H. Kim and S. K. Kim, Phys. Rev. B 106, 104430 (2022) |
39 | Tegan Wharton (Biology, Spring 2025) Discovering targets to enhance glucocorticoid activity in B-lymphoblastic leukemia with CRISPRi B-lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) is the most common childhood cancer. Glucocorticoid-based chemotherapy regimens are key to curing B-ALL, and response to glucocorticoids alone predicts patient outcomes. High-dose glucocorticoids remain ineffective for some patients with B-ALL and lead to significant toxicities for many patients. Since glucocorticoid doses cannot be increased further, the best approach to enhancing glucocorticoid activity is to identify targets which modulate glucocorticoid sensitivity. To do this, we utilized genome-wide CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) screening to understand how gene inhibition impacts glucocorticoid-induced cell death. NALM6 B-ALL cells with the Zim3-dCas9 repression domain were engineered to express the Dolcetto sgRNA interference library. After recovery from puromycin selection, cells were divided into vehicle or dexamethasone treated groups. Cells were treated continuously for 2 weeks. At the end of treatment, extracted DNA libraries were prepared for sequencing. A volcano plot outlining the top genes protective or stimulatory to Glucocorticoid-induced cell death is produced here. Hits with the strongest phenotypes show potential for investigation in future studies. We would like to expand to other cell lines with unique genetic profiles to understand which patients would benefit from novel targeted therapies. The protocol produced in this study will be useful in innovative gene therapy investigations. |
40 | Ragad Osman (Fine Arts, May 2025) Soft Seating for Lounge Areas We are developing tools and techniques for making large scaled knitted furniture. Some of which include the wooden looms we have made using softwares such as AutoCad and Vcarve, as well as CNC router machine for cutting out our sketched prototypes. |
42 | Bree Rubel (GWSS, Spring 2024) Dear Professor: Using Connection to Enhance Learning and Well-Being in the Classroom This project explores the common miscommunications that occur between students and instructors: students often find instructors' pedagogical choices perplexing, while instructors struggle to comprehend the reasons behind students' disengagement. Dear Professor is a podcast designed to begin closing the gap between students and instructors by modeling and encouraging dialogue and connections. |
43 | Alexander Goodrich (Chemistry B.A., Spring 2025) Influence of tetradentate ligands on the spin and structure of dinuclear metal complexes. Understanding and regulating electron spin in coordination complexes is a key that unlocks the limitless potential of quantum computing and information science. Transition metals like Iron and Manganese take precedence in coordination chemistry research, provided their d-orbital composition allows them to adapt different spin configurations depending on their ligand environment. My project uses the fundamentals of Ligand Field Theory to predict the structural properties of dinuclear metal complexes with O-phenylenediamine-derived redox non-innocent tetradentate ligands. Kyle Spielvogel, a former grad student from our group, noted that dinuclear iron complexes synthesized with these ligands have a compelling ability to adapt different spin configurations depending on their surrounding ligand environment. We aim to develop a significant understanding of how these ligands influence spin. My contribution has been synthesizing and helping characterize various types of tetradentate ligands. The process heavily relies on Buchwald Hartwig Coupling, where tetradentate ligands are synthesized by reacting an aryl halide with an appropriate diamine supported by a palladium catalyst, diphosphine ligand (BINAP), and a strong base. Post-synthesis requires filtration through celite, separation using liquid-liquid extraction, and purification via column chromatography; then, characterized using 1H NMR spectroscopy and Single Crystal XRD. |
44 | Brianna Bohling-Hall (Double-Major in Journalism and Religious Studies, Spring 2026) Kingdom Come: The Christian Zionist Vision for Israel's Future My project centers around the Christian Zionist movement, its complicated history with both Israel and the Jewish diaspora as a whole, and the dangers of conflating Judaism with Zionism. Zionism, which is a political movement that supports the creation and preservation of a Jewish state, is often conflated with Judaism, despite Judaism being an ethnicity and religion. The Christian Zionist movement, which helped found modern-day Israel, believes that all Jewish people should return to the homeland of their ancestors because their return will trigger the Rapture. My project further explores the Christian Zionist Rapture prophecy, the potential dangers of Jewish people working together with the Christian Zionist movement, what Christian Zionists envision for Israel’s future, and how that vision could impact native Palestinians and other minorities in the region. |
45 | Caleb Craven (B.S. Biology, Spring 2024) How are invasive species able to persist in nutrient limited environments? Nutrient limitation in nature forces organisms to make unconscious choices about how to distribute the limited resources they are given. These choices made wisely allow organisms to adapt to these nutrient limiting environments and persist. Of the most important nutrient limiting elements necessary to sustain life, a deficiency in phosphorus is one of the most common mineral deficiencies seen in nature. Phosphorus is necessary for DNA replication and rRNA production which directly affects growth and reproductive fitness in all animals. To better understand how limited phosphorus in an animals diet influences an animal to decide where to use the limited amount of phosphorus available, we used model organism Potamopyrgus antipodarum, a freshwater New Zealand mud snail that faces this same problem in nature, resulting in a wide variation in ploidy level and reproductive strategies within the species. In our lab we created varying phosphorus-limited environments for an invasive lineage of asexual P. antipodarum and studied their trade-offs between growth rate and reproductive abilities. We predicted that highly phosphorus-limited snails would designate most of their phosphorus to growth and little to reproduction, while snails with less of a phosphorus limitation would produce a higher number of embryos by the end of the experiment. Learning more about this invasive species’ ability to adapt to a limitation in phosphorus will give us a better understanding of how asexual P. antipodarum has been a successful invasive species and give us more clues to what characteristics are necessary for a species to have the ability to become invasive. |
46 | Zeid Aboushaar (Biomedical science, Spring 2026) erotonin transmission in the nucleus accumbens encodes both rewarding and aversive stimuli Serotonin (5-HT) is a neurotransmitter associated with several mental illnesses. However, the function of serotonin transmission in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc), an information processing center of the brain, is unclear. In our study, we set out to understand how 5-HT activity in the NAcc responds to various stimuli by tracking 5-HT levels in awake, behaving mice with a state-of-the-art technique, fiber photometry.. We observed that interaction with a same-sex, same-age conspecific led to an increase in 5-HT transients in the NAcc. Similarly, exposure to palatable food, like Froot Loops, resulted in elevated 5-HT transmission, especially during foraging behaviors. Furthermore, presentation of aversive stimuli, such as a predator odor, bright light, and lithium chloride injection, which induces visceral discomfort, also triggered increases in 5-HT transmission in the NAcc. Interestingly, there was no difference in 5-HT response to sweet (sucrose) and bitter (quinine) tastes. However, repeated exposure to aversive stimuli, like footshocks, eventually caused a reduction in 5-HT transients. This aligns with the concept of learned helplessness and suggests a potential link between decreased serotonin activity and depression. Our findings provide valuable new insights into serotonin signaling, shedding light on neural mechanisms underlying motivation and mood regulation. |
47 | Brooke Anthos (Exercise Science, Spring 2025) Associations of Psychosocial Factors and Pregnancy Specific Health Related Quality of Life Background & Purpose: Up to 70% of women experience nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, which negatively impacts perceived quality of life and may be related to worse psychosocial health. The aim of this study is to determine the associations of psychosocial factors and quality of life using a pregnancy-specific questionnaire. Methods: As part of the multi-site Pregnancy 24/7 cohort study, 424 women completed the Center of Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10), Perceived Stress Scale, Multidimensional Scale of Social Support, and Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy Specific Health Related Quality of Life Survey (NVPQOL) in each trimester of pregnancy. For each survey, higher scores indicate greater symptoms. A mixed effects model was used to analyze the association between psychosocial factors (exposures) and NVPQOL (outcome) controlling for trimester, education, income, study site, marital status, pre-pregnancy BMI, race, and ethnicity. Results: Depression (β = 3.9, p < 0.01) and stress (β = 2.3, p < 0.01) scores were associated with higher NVPQOL scores, indicating worse QoL. Social support (β = -0.4, p < 0.01) was associated with lower NVPQOL scores, indicating better QoL. Conclusion: Depression, stress, and social support were associated with NVPQOL, yet it is unclear the directionality of this relationship. |
48 | Addison Arens (pre-pharmacy, Spring 2029) Effects of Differing Concentrations of Biotin (Vitamin B7) and Vitamin C on E. Coli Growth Supplements such as biotin (vitamin B7) and vitamin C are commonly marketed to customers to promote their health and growth. This experiment attempts to test the effects of different vitamin concentrations on E. coli strain B as a comparative analysis of what happens in the human body. Previous research has revealed that vitamin C inhibits E. coli growth similarly to how it aids the body in defending against foreign pathogens. On the other hand, E. coli synthesizes biotin, thus reflecting the strengthening effects primarily on human hair, skin, and nails. The goal of our study is to determine the maximum effective concentrations of vitamins B7 and C by examining the growth and inhibition of e coli colonies exposed to systematically varied concentrations of these vitamins. |
48 | Analia Perez (Human Physiology, Spring 2026) Effects of Differing Concentrations of Biotin (Vitamin B7) and Vitamin C on E. Coli Growth Supplements such as biotin (vitamin B7) and vitamin C are commonly marketed to customers to promote their health and growth. This experiment attempts to test the effects of different vitamin concentrations on E. coli strain B as a comparative analysis of what happens in the human body. Previous research has revealed that vitamin C inhibits E. coli growth similarly to how it aids the body in defending against foreign pathogens. On the other hand, E. coli synthesizes biotin, thus reflecting the strengthening effects primarily on human hair, skin, and nails. The goal of our study is to determine the maximum effective concentrations of vitamins B7 and C by examining the growth and inhibition of e coli colonies exposed to systematically varied concentrations of these vitamins.
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49 | Brooke Bayless (Biology, Spring 2025) The Effect of the rnh 1.2 Gene on Meiosis in C. elegans RNaseH is a protein that fixes R loops and is coded for by multiple rnh genes in the model organism C. elegans. Previous work in the lab has shown that mutants rnh 1.0 and rnh 1.2 cause irreparable DSBs that manifest as chromosomal fragments. We studied several mutants of the rnh genes and measured the number of chromosomes and length of chromosomes in the diakinesis phase of meiosis. It was found that the rnh 1.0 rnh 1.2 rnh 2 mutants had a lower number of chromosomal fragments and a longer average chromosome length than the mutants rnh 1.0 rnh 2. This suggests that a possible role of the gene rnh 1.2 is to contribute to fragment formation or prevent chromosomal fusions in the absence of functional rnh 1.0 and rnh 2 genes. |
50 | Nicole Boodhoo (Biomedical Sciences, Spring 2024) Corticosterone’s potential role in seizure-induced death for amygdala kindled mice Epilepsy is a common neurological disease, affecting 65 million people worldwide. One-third of these patients are refractory to seizure medication, and the leading cause of death in this group is sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Breathing dysregulation and serotonin (5-HT) impairment following a seizure are likely causes of SUDEP. Enhancing 5-HT before a seizure improved consequent breathing, but 5-HT2C agonist MK-212 dose-dependently caused fatal seizures in wildtype mice and unexpectedly caused 100% of 5-HT2C knockout mice to die following seizures. We showed 5-HT2C receptor mediates breathing following a seizure, but mortality may be due to MK-212 off-target effects, such as increasing rodent stress hormone corticosterone. Stress commonly triggers seizures, and the corticosterone pathway represents a novel mechanism in SUDEP pathophysiology. Corticosterone antagonist + MK-212 injections showed lower endogenous corticosterone, compared to only MK-212, following serum assay. Mice experience lower mortality risk when corticosterone is decreased prior to induced seizures. |
51 | Melodie Bui (Human Physiology, BS, Spring 2026) Age Differences in Atopic Dermatitis: Why Do Many Children “Outgrow” their Eczema? Atopic dermatitis (AD), often referred to as eczema, is one of the most common skin diseases mainly found in the pediatric population. For some people, AD can be a chronic, debilitating condition, but for many, AD improves by adulthood - so why do those who experience eczema symptoms during childhood see improvement with age? To provide a potential answer to that question, this literature review draws from various articles that explore the complex pathophysiology of AD and previous studies that establish microscopic differences between the skin of children and adults, including skin microbiome and permeability. Even though there has not yet been a cure created for AD, previous and current studies on atopic dermatitis continue to pave the way for future research on a disease that is not just skin-deep. |
52 | Andrew Burgess (B.S. Environmental Science (Biosciences), B.A. Creative Writing, B.A. Philosophy, Spring 2025) Atmospheric Pollen Variations with Meteorological Data: Manual and AI Analysis Pollen grains in the atmosphere, which range from 15 to 100 microns in size, are respiratory allergens that decrease in concentration after rainfall events. A typical human hair is around 50-70 microns in size. These rainfall events can also cause pollen grains to burst into fragments smaller than 2.5 microns, causing them to penetrate deeper into the respiratory system and cause more severe allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. This project investigates relationships between precipitation, wind speed, and intact pollen grains from a summer 2023 field study in Colorado, under the Bioaerosols and Convective Storms study. Samples were collected using a Burkard spore trap sampler and imaged under a microscope at 100x magnification. Airborne particulates which vary widely in size also vary in concentration over time, which necessitates a digital tool capable of automatically counting large volumes of pollen grains while separating them into different species and genera. This tool, which uses a neural network trained on over 200 pollen images with five classes, can further inform relationships between meteorological data and concentrations of specific pollen types. Further research will include a more robust analysis of comparisons in the data, and improvements to the neural network tool. |
53 | Fabiola Castaneda Santiago (Biology, Spring 2025) Diversity of Eupelmids parasites of oak gall wasps Galls are abnormal growths found on plants due to tissue modifications. These modifications can be initiated by external sources including bacteria, fungi, and insects. Gall wasps are a type of wasp that specialize in forming these plant masses to house their developing larvae. Both the gall tissue and the gall wasp larvae are resources for other organisms, including parasitic wasps. Previous work has shown that parasitoid wasp lineages are incredibly diverse with many unknown and undescribed species. This parasitoid diversity in other wasps appears to be due to specialization on different gall hosts. To assess the diversity of one of these lineages, Brasema (Hymenoptera:Eupelmidae; parasitoids of oak gall wasps), we use genetic and morphological methods to determine putative species. |
54 | Fanshuo Cheng (Biomedical Engineering, Spring 2028) A Systematic Review of the Integration of AI Technologies in Education Workflows Artificial intelligence (AI) first made its appearance in the 1950s. In the years following, the fledgling new technology largely developed outside the public view. During the past few years, however, AI has taken the world by storm. Its rise has paralleled that of the Internet, which was in development for several decades until it exploded onto the public scene in the 1990s. The rapid adoption of AI is poised to quickly transform current workflows in every industry on a global scale. The education industry has been at the forefront of adopting technologies that promise improvement in the learning experience for students and educators. Initial results in K-12, college, and university settings have been positive, but they’ve also highlighted concerns. The adoption of AI in the education sector is on track to have an impact far beyond that of the Internet and mobile devices. We conducted a thorough systematic review of the literature and combined it with our analysis of the current state of the AI industry, to tease out the opportunities, challenges, and potential pitfalls regarding the integration process. We identify the current status of AI technology, its likely short-term growth trajectory, and document results seen by early adopters. |
54 | Amit Bhatt A Systematic Review of the Integration of AI Technologies in Education Workflows Artificial intelligence (AI) first made its appearance in the 1950s. In the years following, the fledgling new technology largely developed outside the public view. During the past few years, however, AI has taken the world by storm. Its rise has paralleled that of the Internet, which was in development for several decades until it exploded onto the public scene in the 1990s. The rapid adoption of AI is poised to quickly transform current workflows in every industry on a global scale. The education industry has been at the forefront of adopting technologies that promise improvement in the learning experience for students and educators. Initial results in K-12, college, and university settings have been positive, but they’ve also highlighted concerns. The adoption of AI in the education sector is on track to have an impact far beyond that of the Internet and mobile devices. We conducted a thorough systematic review of the literature and combined it with our analysis of the current state of the AI industry, to tease out the opportunities, challenges, and potential pitfalls regarding the integration process. We identify the current status of AI technology, its likely short-term growth trajectory, and document results seen by early adopters. |
56 | Cara Dulin (Economics, Journalism/Mass Communication, Spring 2024) Examining the Effect of Anti-LGBTQ+ and Anti-Critical Race Theory Legislation on the Educator Shortage Over the past four years, several states have passed legislation dictating the permissible content of classroom discussions, teachers’ mandatory reporting requirements, and acceptable student activities with regard to LGBTQ+ rights and Critical Race Theory (CRT). CRT is an academic concept that defines race as a social construct and teaches that racism is systemic in nature in this country. Meanwhile, the U.S. is confronting a severe educator shortage, leading school districts nationwide to issue an unprecedented number of emergency teaching certifications to unlicensed teachers in order to fill vacancies. Reasons for educator attrition include a salary too low to keep up with the cost of living, heavy workloads, and stressful work environments. This study aims to determine whether the passing of anti-LGBTQ+/CRT legislation is a significant factor contributing to districts’ educator vacancies. Using data across several states, including metrics such as teacher and student enrollment, teacher salaries, and academic performance, I conduct multiple regression analyses to identify statistically significant factors between states with anti-LGBTQ+/CRT legislation and those without. |
57 | Alexis Faudel (Environmental Engineering, May 2027) COVID-19 Pregnancy Experiences & Patient Burden The differential effects of COVID-19 on different pregnant populations are not well understood. To address this question, pregnant patients enrolled in the Perinatal Family Tissue Bank (IRB#200910784) were emailed a survey through REDCap regarding COVID-19 effects on their overall healthcare, finances, social support, and pregnancy. Responses were received from 938 participants. The four cohorts were identified based on survey response answers to the question, “Over the past trimester of your pregnancy, how did you feel burdened by restrictions imposed on labor and delivery as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic?” The four possible answers were: a lot more, a little more, not affected, and improved. Differences between these groups were examined using ANOVA or Chi-square analysis as appropriate. Groups were analyzed for differences in demographics, outcomes, and social determinants of health. Significant differences were identified between the cohorts related to rurality, healthcare, financial ability, and social support (p≤0.001). The themes of access to childcare, vaccine decisions, hospital restrictions, and online healthcare were found in written responses about patient’s experiences. Understanding drivers of patient burden will aid in the development of support programs. |
58 | Mary Haag (astronomy, physics, spring 2024) Burning Bright: How I wrote a children’s book about the Sun Writing a children’s book on a complicated science topic involves balancing accessibility and accuracy. This poster shows both my creative and fact checking process. |
59 | Sidney Hambly (Speech and Hearing Science, Spring 2024) Creating and Using Shared Knowledge During Social Communication in Alzheimer’s Disease Memory plays an important role when speakers tailor their language with respect to their communication partner’s knowledge state, which is one of the most important skills for effective language use. Less explored is whether individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) with memory decline can demonstrate the ability to flexibly adjust their language depending on shared knowledge with a partner or partners. The current study examines whether individuals with AD can produce partner-specific language in conversation. Participants completed a picture sorting task where they created a description of each abstract image. They then completed image description testing with a conversation partner who does or does not know the image descriptions, or with both partners. Our findings demonstrated that individuals with AD modified language with respect to the shared knowledge, but the effect was attenuated especially for definite article use. This finding suggests individuals with AD produce rudimentary partner-specific language, but they are less flexible to reflect shared knowledge in article use, and this may be relevant to their frequent communication breakdowns in daily lives. |
60 | Elizabeth Hernandez (Anthropology, December 2023 Graduate) Fibrolite Tools of Prehistoric Iberia: An Experimental Production Fibrolite, the fibrous variant of sillimanite, is a mineral with notable concentrations in the Iberian Peninsula, as well as other regions of the world (Southwest US, e.g.). Fibrolite tools, such as axes and chisels, have been found in prehistoric archaeological sites dating between 5000 and 3000 BCE in Iberia. These tools are groundstone tools, meaning that they were fashioned through repetitive grinding and/or polishing. Although archaeologists have carried out extensive research on groundstone tools of various materials and types, the hardness of fibrolite (6.7-7.5 Mohs scale) has resulted in limited exploration of its manufacturing and use processes. This project aimed to address this gap through experimental archaeology, seeking to replicate the production of five fibrolite tools to better understand the manufacture of those excavated at prehistoric Iberian sites. Subsequent experimentation facilitated the identification of the most effective grinding materials, techniques, and sequences. Furthermore, methods for sharpening and polishing using leather and sand were established. Given the scarcity of experimental studies on fibrolite production, we hope that this research serves as a foundational resource for future investigations. |
61 | Klaertje Hesselink (Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Spring 2026) Unravelling the Stability of Trimetallic Nanoparticles using Machine Learning Metal nanoparticles have gained immense interest due to their wide application in various fields spanning from catalysis to nanoelectronics and drug delivery. However, nanoparticles have a vast configurational space which makes it difficult to implement traditional calculations such as Density Functional Theory (DFT) to find the most stable chemical ordering (arrangement of different metals) for a specific nanoparticle. Here, we apply the Bond Centric Model (BCM) coupled with an in-house developed Genetic Algorithm (GA), which can accurately and efficiently capture the stability of nanoparticles of any size, shape, and metal composition. We use a proof of concept to extend its usage to four trimetallic nanoparticles of Silver-Palladium-Platinum, Silver-Gold-Palladium, Silver-Gold-Palladium, and Silver-Copper-Palladium, made up of 2869 atoms, of cuboctahedral symmetry, with varying metal compositions. Our study reveals the total chemical ordering and, importantly, the surface composition of the nanoparticles resulting in the lowest cohesive energy (most thermodynamically preferred or most likely to be synthesized form of the nanoparticle). Our work demonstrates the feasibility of using the BCM and the developed GA to reveal the exact chemical ordering of highly thermodynamically stable trimetallic nanoparticles and reveals the importance of metal cohesion and bimetallic bond strength in the overall chemical ordering trends. |
62 | Kasia Janik (Neuroscience, May 2026) The Relationship of Socioeconomic Status with Inhibitory Control and N2 Amplitudes in Young Children The development of inhibitory control in children is important for their school readiness. Socioeconomic status (SES) has been shown to be positively correlated with inhibitory control. Inhibitory control can be measured through N2 amplitudes, with smaller N2 amplitudes associated with poorer inhibition. SES and N2 amplitudes have been found to be positively correlated in older children, but there is limited research on the age at which SES begins to predict N2 amplitudes. In the present work, we examined whether SES is related to inhibitory control and N2 amplitudes, and the age at which links between SES and N2 amplitudes begin to arise. Using data from children aged 4-7 (N=206), we found that both higher family SES and increased N2 amplitudes are correlated with improved inhibitory control, however N2 amplitudes are not associated with SES. There was no association between N2 amplitudes and SES among older children, nor did age moderate any such links in the broader sample. This implies that SES does not predict N2 amplitudes in children younger than 10 years. Identifying other neurocognitive mechanisms that link SES to children’s development of inhibitory control would help with targeting preventative intervention for improving their school readiness. |
64 | Gabrielle Kilpatrick (Business Analytics and Information Systems, Spring 2024) Protecting Personal Data: Comparing US State and Federal Privacy Laws In an era of rapid technological advancement, protecting personal data has become increasingly important. 'Protecting Personal Data: Comparing US State and Federal Privacy Laws' is a comprehensive literature review aiming to analyze the disparities between state-level regulations and federal laws governing data privacy and collection in the United States. This research features the complex challenges of evolving technology and the differing legislative landscape across US states. The project carefully examines the variations in data privacy protections across different states, shedding light on key legal differences and their implications in the data world. By contrasting US regulations with global perspectives, the research aims to contextualize the US’ approach to data privacy and collection with the broader international landscape, emphasizing the necessity for clear and cohesive data protection measures. Through this analysis, the project seeks to inform ongoing discussions surrounding data privacy legislation, advocating for a more unified and comprehensive framework at the federal level in the United States. By addressing these complexities, this research contributes to advancing data privacy discourse and highlights the importance of safeguarding personal data in the digital age on a federal level. |
65 | Michael Lauer (Chemistry B.S., Spring 2026) Rare earth metal mechanochemical separation technique utilizing heat and vaccum The purpose of this research project is to investigate solvent free mechanochemical methods to separate rare earth metals from mixtures using heat, vacuum, and gravity. Rare earth metals are used in digital screens, strong magnets, batteries, lasers, nuclear reactor control rods, and X-ray machines to name a few of their applications. Thus, these elements are utilized in multiple different sectors within our society and are integral to these sectors' functionality. However, rare earth separation processes are solution based and generate large quantities of chemical waste. To test the idea of solvent free separations, experiments were conducted by grinding rare earth salts with another salt to form a new rare earth chemical that could be removed from the mixture by heating under vacuum. The salts were placed inside a glass t-tube connected to a cold finger. The assembly was then oscillated by a prototype Kugelrohr reactor to provide mechanochemical mixing of the salts while heating under vacuum. As the new chemical formed, it converted to a gas and the resulting gas deposited on the cold finger in a process known as sublimation. The results demonstrate a promising method of rare earth metal extraction without generating large amounts of solvent and chemical waste. Despite the simplicity of the prototype reactor, rare earth metal recovery yields were as high as 59%, with a mean yield rate of around 30% over about 30 experiments. Based on the experimental observations, modifications to the prototype and variables are proposed that may be used to further increase the yield of rare earth metal separations using mechanochemical processes. |
66 | Asya Lengel (Chemistry, Spring 2025) Modeling Drug Dissolution Kinetics: Nonlinear Regression of Naproxen Sodium Dissolution Curves with the Weibull Model. In pharmaceutical sciences, assessment of drug dissolution kinetics is crucial for developing new drug formulations, ensuring adherence to FDA regulations, maintaining consistency in drug manufacturing, and testing the shelf life of drug formulations. An essential step in analyzing a large number of experimental kinetic curves of drug dissolution is to identify outlier data points before modeling with dissolution models. Common mathematical models for drug dissolution, such as the Higuchi Model and Korsmeyer-Peppas Model, only describe the first 60% of dissolution determined by the boundary conditions in solving Fick’s diffusion laws. A model that characterizes the entire dissolution curve up to 100% is necessary for complete statistical outlier detection. The Weibull model has the capacity to describe the whole dissolution curve, which is promising for outlier detection and resolution for nonlinear least squares (NLLS) analysis of the kinetic profiles. In this project, we establish the protocol for theoretical simulation and NLLS fitting of experimental dissolution curves with the Weibull law. Using programs written in MATLAB, we analyzed 59 sets of student experimental data to demonstrate the capacity of our protocol. |
67 | Xiangheng Li (Economics, Math, and Psychology, Spring 2024) Social Preferences with Multidimensional Group Identity This research seeks to understand how social preferences change when different group identities are elicited. The study will look at how individuals choose different payoffs for in-group vs. out-group members. In this experiment, participants' social identities (gender and political affiliation) will be primed by pictures. Later on, they will be asked to dictate the payoff that they would allocate between themselves and in-group/out-group members. Through statistical analysis, the study seeks to determine if there exists a relationship between social identities and payoff allocation. |
68 | Cade Machin (Chemical Engineering, Spring 2027) Effects of Perfluorododecanoic Acid Concentrations on E. coli. Growth The presence of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) commonly referred to as ‘forever chemicals’ poses a significant concern due to their slow breakdown and potential negative impact on human health. This study aims to determine the influence of Perfluorododecanoic Acid (PFDoA) concentrations on the growth of Escherichia coli (E. coli), a common strain of bacteria present in the human gastrointestinal tract and vital to digestive function. E. coli were exposed to various concentrations of PFDoA ranging from 0 ug/L to 50 ug/mL over a 48-hour incubation period in Petri dishes. Growth inhibition was assessed by measuring the radius of cell death surrounding a circular piece of blotting paper(diameter 5 mm) exposed to the PFDoA concentrations. Results will be compared with cell cultures exposed to bleach and water solutions to determine if PFDoA is an effective inhibitor of cell growth. These findings will highlight the potential effects that PFDoA concentrations have on human systems and if more investigation is needed into the study. Given PFDoA’s presence in grease-resistant coatings in food packaging and stain removers for furniture and carpets, understanding its potential health implications is imperative. |
68 | Daniel Schwarz (Chemical Engineering, Spring 2027) Effects of Perfluorododecanoic Acid Concentrations on E. coli. Growth The presence of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) commonly referred to as ‘forever chemicals’ poses a significant concern due to their slow breakdown and potential negative impact on human health. This study aims to determine the influence of Perfluorododecanoic Acid (PFDoA) concentrations on the growth of Escherichia coli (E. coli), a common strain of bacteria present in the human gastrointestinal tract and vital to digestive function. E. coli were exposed to various concentrations of PFDoA ranging from 0 ug/L to 50 ug/mL over a 48-hour incubation period in Petri dishes. Growth inhibition was assessed by measuring the radius of cell death surrounding a circular piece of blotting paper(diameter 5 mm) exposed to the PFDoA concentrations. Results will be compared with cell cultures exposed to bleach and water solutions to determine if PFDoA is an effective inhibitor of cell growth. These findings will highlight the potential effects that PFDoA concentrations have on human systems and if more investigation is needed into the study. Given PFDoA’s presence in grease-resistant coatings in food packaging and stain removers for furniture and carpets, understanding its potential health implications is imperative. |
69 | Avery Maeder (Human Physiology, Spring 2025) Sleep Physiology in Bipolar Disorder Bipolar Disorder (BD) is characterized by recurrent depressive and manic or hypomanic episodes, and disrupted sleep is highly prevalent. The goal of this project is to investigate the differences in sleep macro and microstructure in individuals with bipolar disorder. 19 participants (10 individuals with BD and 9 non-psychiatric comparison subjects) completed an overnight sleep study with polysomnography (PSG) and a week-long actigraphy monitoring. Actigraphy analyses revealed that the mean waking up time was significantly later (t(14)=-2.37, p=.03), and day-to-day variability in activity levels (t(14)=-2.36, p=.03) were significantly higher in the BD group. Based on self-reported sleep quality surveys, sleep latency (t(14)=-2.62, p=.02) was also significantly higher in the BD group. Further, self-reports of sleep disruption correlated positively with psychiatric symptom severity. Analyses for PSG data are underway to compare sleep microstructure between groups. This preliminary analysis points to disruptions in objectively measured sleep and activity patterns in bipolar disorder. Further analyses in this project will delve deeper into the nature of sleep physiology. |
70 | Sarah McGee (Biochemistry, Spring 2025) Tuning hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces of uranium metal organic nanotube to control selectivity. Metal organic nanotubes (MONTs) are hybrid materials with 1-D nanopores that exhibit unusual chemical and physical behavior associated with confined solvent effects. We have previously developed a uranium metal organic nanotube (UMONT) that displays exclusive selectivity towards water and exhibits ice-like ordering of the confined molecules. We hypothesize that this selectivity is related to an interplay between the mixed hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups that exist along the internal channel walls of the nanotube. We have evaluated this hypothesis first by coating the surface of UMONT material with hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups using precursors such as Ammonium trifluoroacetate, Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and Polyacrylonitrile (PAN). We have characterized the surface of the modified UMONT materials using Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Batch uptake experiments were conducted with common solvents such as methanol, ethanol and D2O to assess solvent absorption into the modified UMONT materials. The percentage of of adsorption of solvents were evaluated using Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the specific solvents thus adsorbed were confirmed by TGA paired with FTIR. |
71 | Ben Mullen (Chemistry B.S., Spring 2026) In situ generation of organic peroxides to create uranyl peroxides under acidic conditions Uranyl peroxides form because of water radiolysis in high radiation fields created by nuclear fuel. These phases are very soluble under basic conditions, which create a pathway for nuclear materials to leak into the environment. Studite and metastudtite are two such uranyl peroxides that are found in nature. Studite is formed in the surface of spent nuclear fuel and this has a high impact on releasing radionuclides into the atmosphere. Most studies on Studite have been performed by adding 30% H2O2 to the system, but this large influx of peroxide is very different than the constant ingrowth of low levels of H2O2 that is formed due to alpha hydrolysis of water. We have utilized oxygen based radical initiator benzaldehyde/benzyl alcohol system under varying pH conditions to generate peroxides within the reaction mixture and investigate it’s interactions with uranyl cation. Interestingly, we have seen that with no addition of peroxide, in situ generation of an organic peroxide yield the formation of studtite under acidic medium. We have characterized the formed crystalline materials under different pH conditions with Raman spectroscopy and powder x-ray diffraction. |
72 | Guillermo Ng Yi (Biomedical Engineering, Spring 2025) Machine Learning model to predict Recurrence Risk for Papillary Thyroid Cancer patients Our project aims to develop a machine learning model that predict the risk of recurrence in patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). PTC is the most common type of thyroid cancer, and about 20% of survivors experience recurrence. To accomplish this, we performed RNA sequencing on 16 PTC specimens, dividing them into two groups: 8 with recurrence and 8 without. Using the gene expression data, we trained, validated, and tested classifier models using scikit-learn in Python. Our current focus is on identifying the genes that play a significant role in predicting recurrence. By narrowing down this list, we aim to enhance the accuracy of our models, which currently achieve an average accuracy of 75%-86.21%. In the future, we plan to validate our models using publicly available RNA sequencing data from other PTC patients and potentially integrate them into prospective clinical trials. These models have the potential to revolutionize clinical practice by enabling clinicians to develop personalized treatment plans for PTC patients, thereby improving their quality of life and outcomes. |
73 | Maanya Pandey (Public Health, Spring 2026) Understanding reasons for aspirin non-compliance in pregnancy This study investigates aspirin noncompliance among pregnant women as a preventive measure against preeclampsia, a significant risk during pregnancy. Utilizing user experiences from the 'Preeclampsia, Eclampsia & HELLP Syndrome Survivors Global Support Network' Facebook Group, qualitative analysis was conducted on posts related to aspirin use during pregnancy. Findings reveal that while 63.21% of posts indicated compliance, 36.12% reported noncompliance or undetermined compliance. Common themes influencing compliance included lack of knowledge (65.89%), fear of preeclampsia incidence (42.47%), adverse effects (21.07%), questioning provider advice (27.76%), and questioning benefit (16.72%). The study underscores the complexity of factors contributing to aspirin noncompliance among pregnant women and highlights the gap in research with pregnant women’s experience. These insights emphasize the need for tailored interventions addressing knowledge gaps, patient experiences, and concerns about adverse effects. These insights are crucial for removing barriers to improve user knowledge and adherence to aspirin therapy and mitigate preeclampsia-related complications during pregnancy, ultimately enhancing maternal and fetal health outcomes. |
74 | Anna Peach (Global Health Studies, Spring 2024) College Food Security: Practices and Perspectives of Students at the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Community College Food security is a nationwide issue that has been shown to disproportionately affect college students. Campus resources, including food pantries and financial support systems, are often used to address this, yet there is little research on the access to off-campus resources (e.g. city, county, or state funded) or shopping locations utilized by students. The purpose of this study is to understand the practices and perspectives of undergraduate students related to food security, knowledge of food assistance resources, and barriers to obtaining food within the Iowa City-Cedar Rapids area. A sequential mixed methods approach was used at the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Community College with an initial survey to understand undergraduate knowledge of resources and food security. A subsequent round of interviews investigated the practices of students in acquiring food and related stressors. Results indicate that while food security is a unique experience for all, similarities exist in the barriers to food access and gaps in aid for college students in this region. |
75 | Nicole Quist (Environmental Science, B.S. Bioscience Track, Spring 2025) Can Bur Oak Blight be Detected with Remote Sensing? Bur oak blight is a late summer leaf disease caused by the fungal pathogen Tubakia iowensis, which causes leaf necrosis and widespread mortality in bur oak trees. Treating bur oak blight is time consuming and expensive, so identifying the disease from satellite images would be helpful in determining specific areas to target for treatment. The goal of this project was to test whether seasonal progression of bur oak blight across a range of severities could be detected using high resolution PlanetScope satellite imagery. The work was based on surveys conducted in 2022, which quantified the severity of infection of hundreds of trees near West Okoboji Lake, and PlanetScope imagery spanning beginning to end of summer 2022. Using ArcGIS and R Statistical Computing, we tested for statistically significant seasonal changes in the satellite-based normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) among blight severity status categories that occurred between early summer and late summer. We found that seasonal NDVI change did not vary significantly by bur oak blight status, suggesting that other satellite products with different spectral bands or finer temporal resolutions may be necessary to detect bur oak blight from space. |
76 | Ashley Rhodes (Biomedical Engineering, Spring 2024) Novel drug delivery system to streamline the treatment of Non- Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) is a highly prevalent cancer in the US with nearly 80,000 individuals diagnosed annually. Standard-of-care treatment for NMIBC involves surgical resection of the tumor, followed by immunotherapy or chemotherapy. However, the process requires patients to undergo an extended period of outpatient care, contributing to burden on healthcare professionals and a decrease in patient compliance. To simplify the treatment of NMIBC, enhance patient compliance, and alleviate the demand for a trained urologist, we developed a novel, controlled drug delivery implant. The device consists of a drug-loaded, spiraled tube sealed with a carbohydrate cap and coated with a fluorinated polymer. The flexible design allows the patient to remain mobile without impacting the flow of urine. The implant can be administered via Foley catheter by any medical personnel and provides a tunable delivery of chemotherapy. The implant will not only streamline the treatment of NMIBC, but also can be used to treat urinary tract infections and other bladder diseases as well. |
77 | Caroline Schmidt (speech and hearing sciences, spring 2024) More modifications in older adults despite slower competitor activation Previous studies have shown how cognitively taxing context affects language production in cognitively healthy adults. For example, the presence of semantic competitors (e.g., pine tree – maple tree) makes language production more difficult. It results in increased error rates and delays in producing the target word. We employed eye-tracking in the Visual Word Paradigm to examine how older adults produce target words when faced with competition from a semantic competitor. Thirty-two younger and thirty-two older adults were shown four pictures on a screen and were instructed to describe a target image, which was indicated by a black box. We manipulated the presence of a competitor on the screen. In the competitor-present condition, a semantically related competitor image was displayed (e.g., target: pine tree, competitor: maple tree), while in the competitor-absent condition, the target was semantically unrelated to all other images on the screen (e.g., laptop). |
78 | Maxwell Shumaker (Environmental Science (Chemical Track), Spring 2026) PCB 11 (3,3'-dichlorobiphenyl) and its Hydroxylated Metabolites in the Brain of Humanized Mice Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants known to have adverse health effects. One PCB congener, 3,3'-Dichlorobiphenyl (PCB 11), has gained attention due to its presence in the environment and potential health risks. PCB 11 is metabolized by mammalian cytochrome P450 enzymes to hydroxylated metabolites. To understand the mechanism and toxicity of PCB 11, different genetically modified mouse models, including wild-type, Cyp2abfgs-null, CYP2A6-humanized, and CYP2B6-humanized mice, were exposed to PCB 11 by a single oral dose (500 μmol/kg body weight) or vehicle only (peanut oil, 10 mL/kg body weight). After 24 hours of exposure, the animals were euthanized, and brain tissues were collected and stored in a freezer for further analysis. The PCB 11 and its hydroxylated metabolites in brain tissues were extracted using a liquid-liquid extraction method and analyzed by gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) in the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The preliminary results showed the presence of PCB 11, and three major hydroxylated PCB 11 metabolites, including 4-OH-PCB11, 5-OH-PCB11, and 4,5-diOH-PCB11 in the brain tissues. Further investigations into the toxicity of PCB11 in mice are underway. |
79 | Ava Snider (Speech & Hearing Science, Spring 2024) Patterns of Stop Spirant-Approximant Alternation in Spanish-English Speaking Bilingual Children with Speech Sound Disorders The stop/spirant-approximant alternation in Spanish is a typical allophonic sound change pattern that occurs with consonants sounds /b, d, ɡ/. This pattern has typically been described according to context-based rules, such that the stop forms [b, d, ɡ] are expected to be produced at the beginning of an utterance, after a pause, or after certain preceding consonants. In all other positions, a spirant-approximant consonant sound [β̞, ð̞, ɣ̞] is expected. However, little research has evaluated the acquisition of this allophonic pattern or in the context of children with speech sound disorders. Research on these topics is necessary to prevent health disparities in speech-language pathology. This study identifies how the stop/spirant-approximant alternation is produced by Spanish-English bilingual children with speech sound disorders. A picture-based elicitation probe was used to elicit single-word productions in Spanish. The alternation was present in 110 of the productions. Children’s speech productions were recorded and transcribed using narrow phonetic notation. Acoustic analyses of the children’s productions of stop/spirant-approximants, including relative measures of duration and intensity, were extracted from spectrograms to identify stop and spirant-approximant-like productions. Results provide insight into the development of this speech pattern in Spanish-English bilinguals with implications for accurate speech assessment in this population. |
80 | Andres Valdez Perez (Biomedical Engineering, Spring 2025) Replicability of Segmentations in Reconstructed Tibio-Talar Joints for Joint Space Width Calculations Reconstruction of the ankle joint following a distal tibial fracture is associated with the onset of osteoarthritis (OA), with around 76% of individuals experiencing symptoms in 10 years. A commonly used metric to detect early signs of OA is joint space from 2-D scans. However, a more modern approach is joint space width (JSW) in 3D using weight bearing CT scans. The first step to determine JSW is to isolate the bones of interest using manual segmentation techniques. However, the image quality and lack of image contrast sensitivity in joints with metal screws and plates can potentially hinder the precision and replicability of bone segmentations; therefore, deviating JSW from the true values. We have explored an experimental analysis to test the hypothesis that the repeatability of articular bone surface models are independent of segmentors in reconstructed tibio-talar joints. |
81 | Paige Wiebke (Biochemistry, Spring 2025) Lessons Learned from Animal Models of the Vision Disorder Retinitis Pigmentosa Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a progressive inherited eye disease that decreases vision in 1 in 4,000 individuals. RP is caused by mutations in at least 80 genes. The disease mechanisms of RP are poorly understood. Modeling RP in animals has proven useful in determining how RP associated mutations cause disease. RP has been modeled in nine different organisms ranging from insects to monkeys. Research in these models has suggested that oxidative stress in the retina as a unifying disease mechanism. To expand upon this finding, my laboratory has generated fruit fly and mouse models of RP caused by mutation of the SNRNP200 gene. My current research is focused on characterizing our new mouse model through tests of retinal function and visual acuity. Completion of my work will reveal the disease mechanisms for SNRNP200-associated RP and provide a model system for the development of new treatments. |
83 | Zoë Wynohrad (Biology, Spring 2024) T he Knockdown of a Putative Amino acid Transporter in the Malpighian Tubules Significantly Increases Sensitivity to Lithium Toxicity in Drosophila Lithium, a simple alkali metal with chemical properties akin to sodium, is highly effective at managing depressive or manic episodes in mood disorders, and it can also reduce suicidal thoughts. Despite its proven efficacy, the precise mechanisms behind lithium's therapeutic actions remain mostly unknown. Additionally, lithium has a narrow therapeutic range, meaning it can cause several side effects even at doses considered therapeutic. To uncover the fundamental mechanisms driving lithium's effectiveness and potential toxicity, we have turned to Drosophila genetics. Our gene expression analysis revealed that CG15088, a candidate amino acid transporter in the solute carrier 6 (SLC6) family, was significantly upregulated following lithium treatment. We consequently named this gene Lithium-inducible SLC6 transporter, or List. Notably, loss-of-function mutations in List resulted in a marked increase in lithium sensitivity, suggesting its role in lithium's toxic effects. List is predominantly expressed in the nervous system, hind gut, and Malpighian tubules. Using tissue-specific knockdown experiments, we discovered that decreased expression of List in the Malpighian tubules, which are analogous to human kidneys, is a key factor in lithium-induced mortality in List mutants. Sequence comparisons revealed that the closest mammalian counterpart to Drosophila's List is the proline transporter (SLC6A7), a finding supported by our metabolomic analyses. While lithium and loss-of-function mutations in List affected several amino acids, only proline levels were significantly reduced in lithium-treated List mutants, compared to other conditions. Overall, our research suggests that proline transport by the LIST protein in the Malpighian tubules is crucial for modulating resistance and sensitivity to lithium toxicity in Drosophila. Investigating whether these mechanisms are preserved in mammals, including humans, could provide valuable insights. |
84 | Aleksandra Zeglen (Accounting, BAIS, Spring 2024) Big Four Accounting Firms’ Investment in AI technology and the Impact on Audit Quality My research investigates how the lead accounting firms, known as the Big Four, are embracing new technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their audit processes and its actual impact on audit quality. To gauge the effectiveness of audits over time, I've gathered data on two key metrics: the frequency of audits with respect to which an inspection identified audit deficiencies using the PCAOB’s Part I.A audit deficiency rates, and how often each firm had to correct unreliable financial statements through restatements. By juxtaposing these metrics with publicly available information on each firm's planned investments and their coverage of AI in published articles on their firm website, I aim to uncover any potential correlations, whether positive or negative. This study is crucial as it sheds light on whether advancements in technology are indeed making financial audits more precise and dependable for all stakeholders involved. |
86 | Jillian Arnold (Ethics and Public Policy and Religious Studies, Spring 2026) The Age of Conversion: Premillennialists and the Jewish People At the turn of the twentieth century, Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe rapidly fled to the United States. Premillennialists saw the flood of Jewish Immigrants as their opportunity to bring about the second coming of Christ, which will, in turn, bring about one thousand years of blessed peace on Earth. However, before the second coming of Christ can occur, Jewish people must convert to Christianity, specifically premillennialist Christianity (Presbyterianism, Evangelicalism, etc.). So, as more Jewish immigrants settled in the US, Premillennialists took it upon themselves to try and covert the Jewish immigrants in hopes of creating a massive domino effect. This research will go into a specific case study of a Jewish Immigrant family from Russia who were converted to Presbyterianism and were used to assist in the conversion efforts in the Midwest. |
87 | Kate Beeman (Environmental Policy & Social Justice,, Spring 2026) Public Policy and Iowa’s Drinking Water Kiosks: An Investigation of Environmental, Social, and Water Quality Concerns Private drinking water kiosks in Iowa claim to sell purified drinking water in gallon units at a much higher price than a gallon of tap water, but these claims are unchecked due to a lack of regulations in the state. Our research aims to investigate the quality of water at these kiosks, with the goal of providing policy recommendations. |
87 | Grace Koch (Environmental Science, Spring 2026) Public Policy and Iowa’s Drinking Water Kiosks: An Investigation of Environmental, Social, and Water Quality Concerns Private drinking water kiosks in Iowa claim to sell purified drinking water in gallon units at a much higher price than a gallon of tap water, but these claims are unchecked due to a lack of regulations in the state. Our research aims to investigate the quality of water at these kiosks, with the goal of providing policy recommendations. |
87 | Abby McKeone (Environmental Policy, Spring 2025) Public Policy and Iowa’s Drinking Water Kiosks: An Investigation of Environmental, Social, and Water Quality Concerns Private drinking water kiosks in Iowa claim to sell purified drinking water in gallon units at a much higher price than a gallon of tap water, but these claims are unchecked due to a lack of regulations in the state. Our research aims to investigate the quality of water at these kiosks, with the goal of providing policy recommendations. |
87 | Amukta Gantalamohini (Environmental Planning, Spring 2025) Public Policy and Iowa’s Drinking Water Kiosks: An Investigation of Environmental, Social, and Water Quality Concerns Private drinking water kiosks in Iowa claim to sell purified drinking water in gallon units at a much higher price than a gallon of tap water, but these claims are unchecked due to a lack of regulations in the state. Our research aims to investigate the quality of water at these kiosks, with the goal of providing policy recommendations. |
88 | Ardith Bhinu (Biochemistry, Spring 2025) Modeling GNAQ Q209L/bap1-driven Uveal Melanoma in Adult Zebrafish Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most prevalent form of malignant ocular tumors; however, there are no effective therapies for UM metastasis, which is fatal to a majority of patients. Development of effective UM therapies requires understanding of the onset and progression of UM. We aim to overcome this knowledge gap by designing a novel in vivo zebrafish model by injecting a transgene plasmid containing the GNAQ Q209L human oncogene into the suprachoroidal space of zebrafish eyes to induce melanoma tumors. UM cellular origins are currently unknown, but preliminary data suggest melanocyte precursor cells. We will investigate by profiling UM tumors to assess whether melanocyte precursors within the choroid play a critical role in the initiation and progression of GNAQ-induced melanoma. The role of transcription factors (TF) Ap2a and Ap2b, which are necessary to development and differentiation of melanocytes, will be assessed via gene knockout (Cas9-mediated). Our model hypothesizes that tfap2a/b are necessary for GNAQ Q209L- driven transformation of melanocyte precursors, and tfap2a/b deletion would inhibit melanomagenesis. Development of this model enables the study of uveal melanomagenesis from tumor formation to metastasis to secondary tumor establishment, as well as comparison between uveal and cutaneous/skin melanoma onset/progression. |
89 | Brianna Blaine (Human Physiology, Fall 2024) SSRI Use in Pregnancy Rescues Postpartum Cognitive Dysfunction in a Mouse Model for the Study of Preeclampsia Mood disorders in pregnancy are a large and growing health concern. Specifically, depression and preeclampsia, a multi-system hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, share high rates of co-morbidity and are linked to cognitive dysfunction. It is not known, however, whether cognitive dysfunction after preeclamptic pregnancy contributes to depression risk. Here we examine whether cognitive dysfunction occurred following a preeclampsia-like pregnancy, and whether SSRIs might rescue this cognitive dysfunction. For this work, we utilized a preeclampsia mouse model of chronic vasopressin (AVP) validated previously by our lab. SSRIs were chronically administered via drinking water throughout pregnancy. This dose of SSRI crossed into the amniotic fluid and caused significantly decreased anxiety and depression-like behaviors and increased hedonic behaviors after a pregnant cohort. We tested cognitive function via the Barnes maze for spatial memory and the Radial arm maze for working memory one year following index pregnancy. Our results reveal that a prior pregnancy was sufficient to significantly improve spatial memory on the first day of Barnes maze testing. AVP treatment significantly decreased spatial memory on the first but not subsequent days of the Barnes maze task, regardless of SSRI status. Only on the first probe trial did we find there was a rescue of performance by the SSRI. These results have important implications for the treatment of psychiatric and obstetric disorders across the lifespan. |
90 | Nicole Blodig (Theatre Arts, Spring 2024) Exploring Narrative and Abstract Storytelling Through Lighting Dance Nation, presented with the Department of Theatre Arts, shifts between many realms and otherworldly spaces, constantly disrupting time and space. Using lighting to explore narrative and abstracted storytelling, the way we perceive the scenes and characters are shaped, as we explore our learned and expected responses to color, texture, and intensity. |
91 | Adelaide Brooks (International Relations, French, Spring 2024) Women in Terrorism: socio-economic conditions of gender equality and its influence on women’s participation in foreign terrorist organizations This research aims to understand how social and economic contexts of women in societies may contribute to the involvement of women in foreign terrorist organizations. In this research, I analyze existing social and economic measures of women across the globe and how these factors could impact women’s participation in foreign terrorist organizations. I theorized that countries with lower levels of gender equality and social conditions for women will exhibit higher levels of women's participation in foreign terrorist organizations. Empirical data analysis examines terrorist organizations spanning between 1960 – 2015 from the WAAR Project dataset (Loken & Matfess, 2023), and three measures of socio-economic conditions towards women: labor market participation, government participation, and fertility rate. |
92 | Regan Day (Political Science, Marketing, Business Analytics & Information Systems, Spring 2024) Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Environmental Policy Persuasion This research focuses on how the growing presence of AI will play a role in political communication. I distributed a Qualtrics survey to University of Iowa students, faculty, and staff over the age of 18 that included a one paragraph argument, either arguing for or against the banning of gasoline powered cars in Iowa by 2035. Within this survey, respondents received a written argument created by a human or by ChatGPT. Some respondents received a disclosure that their argument was written using ChatGPT or by a human, but others did not. The overarching goal of this study is to find a pattern based on demographic traits, how comfortable Iowans are with using AI in political campaigns, and how persuasion differs between text written by ChatGPT and by humans. This study has implications on how politicians’ campaign and discuss complex policy issues with Iowans in the future. |
93 | Jennifer DeVries (Microbiology & Biomedical Sciences, Spring 2024) Exploring the Roles of PDGFR-α+ Interstitial Cells (PIC) to Determine Pathophysiology of G.I. Dysmotility in Systemic Sclerosis For those diagnosed with Systemic Sclerosis, a chronic autoimmune disorder resulting in the formation of abnormal fibrotic tissue throughout the body, nausea and constipation are a daily feeling. Systemic Sclerosis affects over 240 million people worldwide, with roughly 20 million new diagnoses every year. Currently, there are no medications available that can treat this disease, only alleviate its symptoms. This disease is debilitating, and the lack of physiological understanding and disease mechanism of Systemic Sclerosis is preventing any developments in generating a cure for those affected. This is where the focus of the project begins, a concerted effort to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of gastrointestinal (G.I) fibrosis seen in Systemic Sclerosis. Fibrosis is generated by a cell population called fibroblasts, present all throughout the body. Recently, a novel cell population specific to the intestines that possess fibroblast-like qualities was discovered and were named PDGFR-α+ Interstitial Cells (PIC). The role of PIC in intestinal fibrosis motility disorders has never been previously investigated. The aim of this project is an enhanced understanding of PIC function and activation, with a secondary further goal of eventually developing medication that can deactivate PIC fibrotic character and stop fibrosis of the G.I. tract in Systemic Sclerosis. |
94 | Madeline Ephraim (Psychology, Spring 2025) The Association Between Household Chaos and Children’s Internalizing Problems: Investigating Inhibitory Control as a Mediator Internalizing problems (e.g. depression, anxiety) can be detrimental to a child. Therefore, it is important to identify potential mechanisms that contribute to internalizing problems in childhood. Research has found household chaos (i.e. disorganization and instability within the home) to be positively associated with internalizing problems. In addition, executive function has been identified as a mediator of this relation; however, past research has not examined inhibitory control, a specific facet of executive functioning, as a mediator. This study examined whether inhibitory control mediated the relationship between household chaos and child internalizing problems, including anxiety and depression. The sample included children (N=206, ages 3-7) and their parents. Children completed behavioral tasks to assess their inhibitory control. Parents reported on household chaos, child internalizing problems, and child inhibitory control via questionnaires. Increased household chaos was associated with more internalizing problems, but household chaos did not have a significant relationship with inhibitory control. We found a significant negative relation between inhibitory control and internalizing problems. Specifically, we found that lower inhibitory control was associated with greater depression but not anxiety. Inhibitory control did not mediate the relationship between household chaos and internalizing problems. These findings suggest depression and anxiety may have different underlying mechanisms. |
94 | Connor Roberts (Psychology, Spring 2025) The Association Between Household Chaos and Children’s Internalizing Problems: Investigating Inhibitory Control as a Mediator Internalizing problems (e.g. depression, anxiety) can be detrimental to a child. Therefore, it is important to identify potential mechanisms that contribute to internalizing problems in childhood. Research has found household chaos (i.e. disorganization and instability within the home) to be positively associated with internalizing problems. In addition, executive function has been identified as a mediator of this relation; however, past research has not examined inhibitory control, a specific facet of executive functioning, as a mediator. This study examined whether inhibitory control mediated the relationship between household chaos and child internalizing problems, including anxiety and depression. The sample included children (N=206, ages 3-7) and their parents. Children completed behavioral tasks to assess their inhibitory control. Parents reported on household chaos, child internalizing problems, and child inhibitory control via questionnaires. Increased household chaos was associated with more internalizing problems, but household chaos did not have a significant relationship with inhibitory control. We found a significant negative relation between inhibitory control and internalizing problems. Specifically, we found that lower inhibitory control was associated with greater depression but not anxiety. Inhibitory control did not mediate the relationship between household chaos and internalizing problems. These findings suggest depression and anxiety may have different underlying mechanisms. |
95 | Faith Fairbairn (Microbiology, Fall 2024) Placental-Targeted CRISPR Manipulation has No Impact on Maternal Care of Pups Maternal care can have profound impacts on development and offspring behavior. It is important to address behavioral differences in dams when working with animal models that have been manipulated to impact offspring. In this project, we induced placental gene expression changes using CRISPR which was delivered after a laparotomy to expose the pregnant dam’s uterus on embryonic day 12. We hypothesized that this manipulation would have no impact on maternal care. For these experiments we had five treatment groups: sham laparotomies, Igf-1 overexpression, Igf-1 knockout, overexpression-specific control, and knockout-specific control. To assess maternal care, videos of dams with their pups were taken at postnatal day 0 (P0), P3, P8, and P14. These videos were analyzed in four-minute increments to quantify the percent of time dams spent with pups. There was no significant change in the amount of time spent on the nest across treatment groups. Thus, our placental CRISPR manipulation method did not impact maternal behavior. This is significant because the placenta is an important organ required for development and being able to manipulate it without directly impacting maternal care is important for the success of the specificity of this method to the placenta. |
96 | Sarah Froelich (Psychology, Spring 2025) Salivary Alpha Amylase as a Biomarker for the Autonomic Nervous System in Ovarian Cancer Patients Biomarkers of autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity are of significant interest in cancer neuroscience to understand relationships of stress and tumor progression. One putative ANS biomarker is salivary alpha amylase (sAA), which has been associated with physical and psychological stress but is understudied in cancer. Here, we examined associations between sAA and psychological variables in ovarian cancer patients to characterize the clinical utility of sAA in this population. Women with suspected ovarian cancer were recruited from 3 academic medical centers at their initial clinic visit as part of a larger study of biobehavioral factors and disease progression. sAA was assayed from saliva collected at least twice daily for three days before surgery or neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Post-surgery, participants were included if they had histologically confirmed ovarian cancer (n=126) or benign conditions (n=49) for comparison. Associations between sAA and psychological variables were examined using bivariate partial correlations. Morning sAA was significantly negatively associated with perceived stress (r=-.207, p=.028), anxiety (r=-.217, p=.022), and marginally with confusion (r=-.176, p=.065) in cancer patients. These associations were not observed in benign patients (all ps>.432). sAA is a biomarker associated with psychological distress that may have utility in non-invasive measurements of ANS activity in cancer patients. |
97 | Shreya Gaddi (Biomedical Sciences, Spring 2025) Examining Cardiac Effects in Pregnant Subjects Using an Innovative Method Involving Arginine Vasopressin Infusion Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy complication linked to hypertension. Those with a history of PE are at increased risk for future cardiovascular disease (CVD). The connection between PE and CVD remains unclear; however, a novel approach using AVP infusion offers insight. Past research demonstrated that AVP infusion in pregnant mice emphasizes preeclampsia symptoms, especially hypertension. Our hypothesis states that AVP infusion causes cardiac hypertrophy in pregnant mice through the induction of PE. Mini-pumps implanted infused AVP in mice throughout gestation until necropsy on gestational day 18. BP and heart weight were measured. Non-pregnant and saline-infused pregnant mice showed no BP increase. In AVP-infused pregnant mice, BP rose along with heart weight, indicating hypertrophy. ELISA also revealed elevated NT-ProBNP levels, a cardiac abnormality biomarker, in plasma from pregnant AVP-infused mice. For a case-control study, we obtained 3rd-trimester human maternal plasma samples from preeclamptic patients. Their plasma showed significant increases in NT-proBNP and MR-proANP. Pooled plasma from the preeclamptic patients was used to treat H9C2 rat cardiomyocytes. The results showed significant increases in rat ANP and BNP expression, suggesting that AVP-infused pregnant mice exhibit more pronounced cardiac hypertrophy than typical pregnancy-related hypertrophy, offering a relevant model to study future CVD. |
98 | Alexandra Glennon (Chemistry, Fall 2024) Sample Preparation of D4TOH Volatile methyl siloxanes (VMS) are a class of volatile organic compounds found in the environment. D5 is a VMS originating from personal care products that can volatilize and oxidize into the secondary organic aerosol, D4TOH. This study aims to identify D4TOH and other molecular tracers present in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) samples using solvent extraction and GC-MS methods. The PM2.5 samples were collected in NYC in the Summer of 2022 and had previously been analyzed for organic and elemental carbon. The solvent extraction method showed qualitative results consistent with the presence of D4TOH and other molecular tracers in one preliminary sample. Future work aims to analyze the presence of D4TOH in other PM2.5 samples, as well as in gas phase samples collected at the same time, to determine the gas-particle partitioning of D4TOH in ambient air. |
99 | Kelsey Greenwood (Microbiology, Spring 2024) Developing an E. coli Probiotic That Expresses a Salmonella Hyperadherent Type 1 Fimbriae to Reduce Poultry Intestinal Carriage Salmonella, a bacterial pathogen that regularly causes a severe human diarrheal disease is commonly carried in the intestinal tract of poultry. Up to 30% of human cases of salmonellosis are caused by consumption of contaminated poultry meat which makes reducing and/or eliminating the carriage of this organism in poultry a research priority for both the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In addition, to human disease the organism is also considered a risk to become significantly antibiotic-resistant which causes additional concerns. Fresh approaches to reduce the carriage of Salmonella in poultry, and the infectious disease that the bacteria cause, are needed. Our work aims to create a probiotic E. coli strain that can outcompete pathogenic Salmonella strains in the intestinal microbiome of poultry, thereby significantly reducing the numbers of Salmonella that are present in the gut microflora of poultry. We have engineered an E. coli probiotic strain, that expresses a key Salmonella adherence factor, type 1 fimbriae, and we are testing it hyperadherent capability to competitively exclude Salmonella strains from colonizing the intestinal epithelium of the poultry host. This result would help reduce or eliminate carriage of Salmonella in poultry flocks and thus and reduce the risk of human infection. |
100 | Makenna Gregurek (Political Science; Economics; Ethics & Public Policy; Minor: International Relations; Certificate: Political Risk Analysis, Spring 2024) Restoring the Lost Iowa Polls: Iowans' Opinions from Half a Century Ago Iowa Poll #229, conducted by the Des Moines Register, was administered to a random sample of Iowans in March 1978. In addition to the questions about women's roles, the survey asked respondents their opinions on a wide variety of topics, including the creation of an independent Palestinian state, the effects of high inflation, LGBTQ+ individuals holding different positions, and entertainment consumption. Understanding Iowans’ past opinions on these topics can help us understand how perspectives have changed and what ideas have remained popular. IPOL has also been working with UI Libraries and the Des Moines Register to restore data from dozens of Iowa Polls from the 1960s to early 1980s. |
101 | Mary Haag (Astronomy, Physics, Spring 2025) Verifying a Machine Learning Algorithm for Detecting Aurora With ever growing data sets, manually detecting and classifying aurora is becoming more difficult. These data sets come from allsky imagers: cameras that have 180-degree fields of view and take images of the sky through out the night. Using these allsky imagers, we look for aurora, specifically pulsating aurora, which are a type of aurora that flicker, almost like turning a light on and off.With a large data set we can find more examples of pulsating aurora, but due to the amount of data needed to be sorted and classified it is a very large undertaking. To sort this data more efficiently, space physicists use machine learning algorithms to classify aurora. Through comparison verification, we test to see if the machine learning algorithm works. If successful, these algorithms would allow scientists to sort through more data without having to manually detect and classify aurora. |
102 | Max Hansen (Public Health, Spring 2025) The Silent Threat: An analysis of LTBI disease distribution within Johnson County This project asks, what does the distribution of LTBI cases look like in Johnson County, and how can JCPH better meet the needs of the community? In order to answer this, a dataset was constructed using the last 16 years of JCPH LTBI treatment. In this dataset, the variables of age, gender, and city of residence were key factors to determine LTBI disease distribution, and whether it is within expected bounds or not. This project attempts to inform better treatment methods for those who need it most in Johnson County. |
103 | McKenzie Heikens (Communication Sciences and Disorders, Spring 2024) Individual Language Differences Across Proficiency, Use, and Exposure in Bilingual Children Bilingual individuals are misrepresented in current research for speech and language disorders. Since current studies compare bilingual children to one another and/or monolingual peers, it is crucial to understand the individual variability that may occur amongst bilingual speakers to avoid misinterpretation of their language ability. The differences between bilingual children’s communication environments are important to consider in research for a more accurate and complete analysis of a child’s language ability. The results should also explicitly state whether the findings apply to all bilinguals or a specific category of bilinguals, such as the amount of use the child has with each language. This case series describes three Spanish-English speaking children ages 4 to 5 years old with similarities and differences across language exposure, proficiency, and production ability that were collected through language samples in each of their languages, caregiver- and teacher-report questionnaires and interviews. Individual differences and relationships across measures of language production, exposure, use, and proficiency in each of their communication contexts are identified and discussed as they relate to ecologically valid assessment of preschool language development in bilingual children. |
104 | Annabel Hendrickson (Anthropology, Spring 2025) Shaking Up Microwear Analysis: The Effects of Screening on the Surface of Stone Flakes Due in part to the durable nature of rock, stone tool analysis is an important component to archaeological investigations. While traditional methods of stone tool analysis rely on typologies to infer function, the field of microwear analysis allows researchers to draw conclusions about stone tools that go beyond their functional appearance. Microwear studies (also called use-wear) examine microscopic damage, such as flaking, polish, and striations, on the surface of stone tools that formed during a tool’s utilization. Patterns of microwear damage can reflect different aspects of a tool’s use-life outside of function, including the motion the tool was used in and the contact materials it was used against. However, one drawback to microwear analysis is that a stone tool can accumulate microscopic damage from events that occur outside of its use-life or after it was deposited. One source of possible damage comes from the process of screening. Screening is a common method of archaeological excavation in which soil is shaken or pushed through a metal screen in order to isolate small artifacts from the sediment, often with the aid of implements such as gloved hands, trowels, or screening blocks. The purpose of this study is to examine how microscopic damage from the screening process affects the appearance and interpretation of microwear patterns. |
105 | Elleri Herman (Human Physiology, Spring 2026) Investigating a Role of Time of Day and Serotonin On The Effects of Seizures On CO2 Arousal in Amygdala Kindled Mice Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent spontaneous seizures. Anti-seizure drugs fail in 1⁄3 of people with epilepsy. These patients are at higher risk for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). SUDEP is more prevalent at night in both humans and animal models. Respiratory failure is a potential mechanism for SUDEP and the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) is implicated due to its time-of-day modulation and role in epilepsy, sleep, and breathing. Several etiologies have been proposed for SUDEP, including impaired arousal. One relevant arousal stimulus is CO2. Preliminary studies from our lab suggest that seizures impair CO2 arousal. We hypothesized that CO2 arousal is impaired to a greater extent by seizures occurring during the night. This may contribute to increased nighttime mortality. To examine this, serotonin-neuron deficient and wildtype mice were surgically implanted with hardware to monitor EEG and EMG to determine sleep-wake state and seizure activity, and with a bipolar electrode in the basolateral amygdala to induce epileptogenesis via amygdala kindling. Once rendered epileptic, mice were exposed to 7% CO2 before and after seizures induced at different times of the twenty-four-hour day. So far, we have demonstrated that seizures impair CO2 arousal and this impairment is exacerbated at night. |
106 | Kelly Jacobs (Speech and Hearing Science, Spring 2024) Transition to Life After High School for Adolescents Who Stutter: Insights from Key Partners Young adults who stutter have unique needs as they prepare to transition to life after high school and navigate the “real world,” frequently exposing them to underinformed and discriminatory practices and attitudes toward people who stutter. Considering the postsecondary transition, we sought to better understand the challenges that young people who stutter face and the skills/structural practices they need as they transition to postsecondary education/training, employment, and independent living. To examine these issues, we facilitated focus group discussions with high schoolers who stutter, recent high school graduates who stutter, parents of high schoolers who stutter, and high school speech-language pathologists. |
106 | Darby Marsh (Speech and Hearing Science, Spring 2024) Transition to Life After High School for Adolescents Who Stutter: Insights from Key Partners Young adults who stutter have unique needs as they prepare to transition to life after high school and navigate the “real world,” frequently exposing them to underinformed and discriminatory practices and attitudes toward people who stutter. Considering the postsecondary transition, we sought to better understand the challenges that young people who stutter face and the skills/structural practices they need as they transition to postsecondary education/training, employment, and independent living. To examine these issues, we facilitated focus group discussions with high schoolers who stutter, recent high school graduates who stutter, parents of high schoolers who stutter, and high school speech-language pathologists. |
107 | Shuntaro Kawasaki (Neuroscience, Spring 2024) Developing treatments for gastrointestinal motility disorders by inhibiting specific interstital cells in the GI muscle. The digestive system is composed of smooth muscle tissues which are muscles responsible for contracting hollow organs such as the esophagus, stomach and colon. As part of the smooth muscle tissue, PDGFRα+ interstitial cells (PIC) is responsible for generating inhibitory signals of contraction, thus relaxing smooth muscle tissues and preventing food particles to flow through the body. Peristalsis is the rhythmic muscular contraction (and relaxation) of the digestive system and allows the transfer of food material in one direction. Our research focuses on understanding the contractile motions in the digestive tract of mice, especially the PIC. Sections of the lower esophagus sphincter, antrum and distal colon are carefully isolated for tensile recording. The tissue samples are placed in a bath chamber and experimental medications are added to measure their pharmacological effects on the contractile strength of the smooth muscle tissue. We aim to further understand the contractile ability of the digestive system in hopes of developing a treatment for gastrointestinal motility disorders such as GERD, constipation, gastroparesis and other GI dysmotility. |
107 | Carter Weyman (Biochemistry, Spring 2025) Developing treatments for gastrointestinal motility disorders by inhibiting specific interstital cells in the GI muscle. The digestive system is composed of smooth muscle tissues which are muscles responsible for contracting hollow organs such as the esophagus, stomach and colon. As part of the smooth muscle tissue, PDGFRα+ interstitial cells (PIC) is responsible for generating inhibitory signals of contraction, thus relaxing smooth muscle tissues and preventing food particles to flow through the body. Peristalsis is the rhythmic muscular contraction (and relaxation) of the digestive system and allows the transfer of food material in one direction. Our research focuses on understanding the contractile motions in the digestive tract of mice, especially the PIC. Sections of the lower esophagus sphincter, antrum and distal colon are carefully isolated for tensile recording. The tissue samples are placed in a bath chamber and experimental medications are added to measure their pharmacological effects on the contractile strength of the smooth muscle tissue. We aim to further understand the contractile ability of the digestive system in hopes of developing a treatment for gastrointestinal motility disorders such as GERD, constipation, gastroparesis and other GI dysmotility. |
108 | Natalie Kehrli (Psychology B.S., Spring 2025) Physical Activity in Schizotypy: Group Differences and Associations With Negative Symptoms and Functional Outcomes Previous literature has indicated individuals with schizophrenia engage in less physical activity when compared to non-psychiatric healthy comparators (Scheewe et al., 2019). We aim to examine if engagement in physical activity similarly differs among those with elevated levels of schizotypal characteristics. Additionally in a recent meta-analysis examining the efficacy of exercise interventions in schizophrenia, a moderate effect was found in improvement in negative symptoms, and small effects were demonstrated for improvement in positive symptoms (Kim, M., Lee, Y., & Kang, H., 2023). However, less is known regarding the association between physical activity and attenuated negative symptoms in those with schizotypy. We aim to examine the association between physical activity and negative symptoms in this subclinical sample. Finally, there is a wealth of evidence demonstrating an association between engagement in physical activity and positive outcomes such as well improved well-being among non-clinical samples and among those with psychotic disorders (Girdler et al., 2019). Our previous research in a preliminary analysis among those with schizotypy replicated this positive association between physical activity and life satisfaction. This is in line with the literature that physical activity is associated with positive functional outcomes (Girdler et al., 2019). We aim to extend these preliminary findings by examining the association between physical activity with functional outcomes in a larger sample of individuals with schizotypy. Additionally, through recognizing the documented improvements in depression through exercise interventions, this study aims to explore and dissect the nuanced relationship between exercise interventions and depression in this sample (Carek et al., 2011). |
109 | Annelies Knight (Art History, Spring 2025) A Rare Templar Ring Found at the Medieval Farmstead of Agroal, Portugal In 1989, during archaeological excavations of the Bronze Age-Medieval settlement of Agroal (Ourém, Portugal), Prof. Katina Lillios and her team discovered a ring bearing the signature cross of the Knights Templar. During the Medieval use of the site, Agroal was a farmstead linked to the Templars. Agroal is located about 11.5 km from Tomar, former seat of the Order of the Knights Templar (1160-1344 CE), making it relatively accessible to any members living there. The Order of the Knights Templar was a group founded to defend Christianity, both by aiding in the crusades and to protect those making pilgrimages to the holy land. The Order included both militarily active knights, and those who remained in other parts of Europe to pray, the latter group being the larger of the two. This group lived a largely monastic lifestyle, with strict rules about prayer, dress, and work. This ring in particular is rare, and no comparable Templar rings are known, and thus there are many questions surrounding its history and purpose. My project explored two questions: Who might the ring have belonged to and why did they wear it? – and - How did it wind up in an agricultural field? |
110 | Mikayla Lewis (Biomedical Science, Spring 2025) Adverse Events and Safety Data for Efficacy of Diet on Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis (EDQ-MS) Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a progressive autoimmune disorder of the nervous system characterized by the demyelination of the brain and spinal cord. This results in communication problems between nerves and causes symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, inability to walk, partial or complete vision loss, cognitive decline, and extreme fatigue. The study “Efficacy of Diet on Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis (EDQ-MS)” (NCT05007483; IRB 202104639) is evaluating the effects of three diets (time-restricted olive oil ketogenic, modified paleolithic elimination diet, or usual diet) over the course of two years on quality of life, in the setting of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. An important aspect of the study is monitoring adverse events throughout the study duration. Adverse event data is collected through participant surveys that consist of open-ended questions and are completed every three months. Participants may be contacted to ascertain necessary details about an adverse event that was reported. If needed, medical records from treating physicians are requested. The data is entered into the REDCap database and sent to the principal investigator to classify how likely the adverse event was due to the study intervention. This data is then used for data safety meetings and for future analysis. |
111 | Morgan Linahon (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Spring 2025) Immunohistochemical Analysis Reveals No Effect of Inhalled PCB52 on Apoptosis, Morphology, and Cell Density in the Rat Striatum or Cerebellum Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are no longer mass-produced, but they persist in the environment and threaten human health, especially in schools where adolescents are exposed through contaminated indoor air. PCBs have been associated with adverse neurological outcomes. However, the effect of PCBs, such as PCB52 (2,2’,5,5’-tetrachlorobiphenyl), on the developing brain remains poorly investigated. We hypothesize that inhalation exposure to PCB52 results in elevated levels of apoptotic cell death, neuroinflammation, and changes in cell-cell interactions in the rat brain. To test this hypothesis, adolescent rats were exposed to PCB52 for 28 consecutive days via a nose-only inhalation. After exposure, animals were euthanized, and the striatum and cerebellum were collected for immunohistochemical analysis. Tissue sections, embedded in optimal cutting temperature compound, were labeled for apoptotic cells (PSvue), microglia (Iba-1 antibody), and astrocytes (GFAP antibody). Z-stack confocal images were taken from control and PCB52-exposed animals and analyzed for differences in microglia and astrocyte density and apoptosis within each brain region. Morphological aspects studied included brain cell counts and percentage of area within the brain. We observed no significant differences in morphological or apoptotic cell changes based on the immunohistological analysis. Additional studies are needed to explore the effect of PCB52 on brain health. |
112 | Carson Lovig (Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Spring 2025) Analyzing STEM Instructor Facilitation using FOCI The use of active learning methods, such as POGIL & Peer Learning, have been shown to promote student learning in STEM courses. However, not all active learning is equally effective, and instructor facilitation is potentially one source of this variation. For this reason, we investigated graduate teaching assistants’(GTA) facilitation in introductory chemistry discussion-based classrooms to elucidate what interactions may promote student engagement and positive learning outcomes. To characterize these novice facilitators’ instructional moves, a coding scheme, Framework for Observing Classroom Instruction (FOCI), was employed to analyze classroom discourse across two semesters and eight graduate teaching assistants. The preliminary findings of this analysis focus on the duration of time GTAs dialogue, the composition of their dialogue, and the nature of GTAs’ conversations with student groups – which we broadly characterized as interactive or non-interactive. Patterns emerged across all these categories, but notably, GTAs on average spent a greater proportion of time engaging with students interactively compared to noninteractively. These data can be combined with analysis of student interactions to allow for a deeper understanding of active learning instruction. |
113 | Alexia Lynn (Psychology, Spring 2024) The Developmental Trajectory of Twitches in Quiet Sleep Twitches have been discovered in quiet sleep, which goes against the previous notion that only active sleep could produce twitches. These quiet sleep twitches, along with respiratory data, can help us gain insight into observable sleep stages and allow us to ask further questions about the developmental sleep trajectory of young children. |
114 | Rami Mayasa (Biomedical Sciences, Spring 2025) Examining Heat Perturbations of Fungal Biofilms Implant-associated infections are difficult to treat and result in significant patient morbidity and mortality. These infections arise from the formation of polymicrobial biofilms on the implant surface that change the character of the cells within and protect them from antibiotics and host immune cells. The goal of this work is to better understand the relationships between biofilm mechanics and composition, heat treatment, and microorganism viability/virulence in a polymicrobial biofilm to advance technologies concerned with eliminating implant-associated medical infections. We implemented a method for growing Candida albicans biofilms of dimensions sufficient for rheological (mechanical) measurements. Control and heat-treated biofilms have been subjected to strain analysis to evaluate their tendency to deform in response to rotational torque. Our preliminary results suggest that rheological measurements are not sensitive enough to detect structural changes. In ongoing work, we have updated heat treatment conditions to reduce biofilm dehydration and are investigating the effects of heat on biofilm morphology and cell viability. |
114 | Peter Dengler (Biomedical Sciences, Spring 2024) Examining Heat Perturbations of Fungal Biofilms Implant-associated infections are difficult to treat and result in significant patient morbidity and mortality. These infections arise from the formation of polymicrobial biofilms on the implant surface that change the character of the cells within and protect them from antibiotics and host immune cells. The goal of this work is to better understand the relationships between biofilm mechanics and composition, heat treatment, and microorganism viability/virulence in a polymicrobial biofilm to advance technologies concerned with eliminating implant-associated medical infections. We implemented a method for growing Candida albicans biofilms of dimensions sufficient for rheological (mechanical) measurements. Control and heat-treated biofilms have been subjected to strain analysis to evaluate their tendency to deform in response to rotational torque. Our preliminary results suggest that rheological measurements are not sensitive enough to detect structural changes. In ongoing work, we have updated heat treatment conditions to reduce biofilm dehydration and are investigating the effects of heat on biofilm morphology and cell viability. |
114 | Abby Cupp (Biomedical Sciences, Spring 2026) Examining Heat Perturbations of Fungal Biofilms Implant-associated infections are difficult to treat and result in significant patient morbidity and mortality. These infections arise from the formation of polymicrobial biofilms on the implant surface that change the character of the cells within and protect them from antibiotics and host immune cells. The goal of this work is to better understand the relationships between biofilm mechanics and composition, heat treatment, and microorganism viability/virulence in a polymicrobial biofilm to advance technologies concerned with eliminating implant-associated medical infections. We implemented a method for growing Candida albicans biofilms of dimensions sufficient for rheological (mechanical) measurements. Control and heat-treated biofilms have been subjected to strain analysis to evaluate their tendency to deform in response to rotational torque. Our preliminary results suggest that rheological measurements are not sensitive enough to detect structural changes. In ongoing work, we have updated heat treatment conditions to reduce biofilm dehydration and are investigating the effects of heat on biofilm morphology and cell viability. |
115 | Lauren McNally (B.S. Biology (Integrated Biology), May 2025) Carbon Monoxide Improves Mitochondrial Morphology After Tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide Injury In Human Chondrocytes Our group has shown that mitochondria are important to the injury responses of cells in residing in cartilage, the tissue lining articular joints like knees and ankles. This injury response involves cellular fats that are prone to damaging levels of oxidative stress. We used tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBOOH) to stimulate oxidative stress in cellular fats and measured time- and dose-dependent responses of chondrocytes, the cells that live in articular cartilage. We observed that even very low doses of tBOOH cause disruption and decreases in mitochondrial networks within the chondrocytes. This persists for over 24 h but is resolved by 48 h with a maximal observed effect at 8 h. Our lab, in collaboration with Dr. James Byrne, has become very interested in the pro-healing effects of carbon monoxide, which appears to act in the mitochondria. When carbon monoxide was applied at 8 h after tBOOH treatment, we observed improved mitochondrial morphology at 28 h compared to controls. We also show that this treatment is associated with improved mitochondrial function and protection against traumatic injury. These data support the hypothesis that carbon monoxide improves mitochondrial health after injury caused by oxidative damage in human chondrocytes. |
116 | Zoe Meaney (Psychology, Winter 2025) Investigating Corticosteroids as a Treatment for Preeclampsia Preeclampsia (PreE) is a prevalent gestational disorder marked by hypertension and kidney damage. Corticosteroids such as Betamethasone (BMTZ) are often administered to promote fetal maturation. This research explores the potential of using corticosteroids like BMTZ to manage or treat PreE. Arginine vasopressin (AVP) has been shown to replicate symptoms of PreE. AVP was administered to C57B16/J mice throughout gestation, and BMTZ was given to AVP treated mice to observe its effects. AVP increased systolic blood pressure and expression of renal damage markers Col1A and TGFβ. Both systolic blood pressure and expression of renal damage markers were reduced with BMTZ administration. Additionally, HTR8 cells, a line of placental trophoblasts, were treated with AVP or a combination of AVP and BMTZ. Placentas from AVP treated mice were analyzed and found to have decreased expression of the gene RGS2. BMTZ rescued expression of RGS2. AVP inhibited cell migration, a factor linked to poor placental profusion in PreE patients. Migration was restored by BMTZ treatment. AVP treated cells with over-expression of RGS2 experienced increased migration. These findings suggest that preeclamptic phenotypes induced by AVP can be prevented using BMTZ. RGS2 regulation by BMTZ could be the mechanism by which BMTZ prevents preeclamptic symptoms. |
117 | Jessica Miller (Chemistry B.S. Biology minor, Spring 2025) Understanding Polyphosphate's Role in Cell Cycle Progression Under Phosphate Starvation for Yeasts Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida glabrata, two closely related yeast species, are governed by the PHO regulon when phosphate in their environment is scarce. These yeasts are naturally found in the human gut and the earth's soil, along with other environments. The He laboratory found differences in how cells respond to phosphate scarcity and stress, shedding new light on the PHO pathway divergence in species, a phenomenon referred to as phosphate-induced acquired stress resistance. The molecule polyphosphate, a linear polymer of orthophosphoric acid, is present throughout the cell but synthesized in the vacuole, where it aids in regulating cell cycle progression under stress. Polyphosphates breakdown ATP to ADP, highlighting it’s significance in cellular maintenance function. Subsequently, the polyphosphate chains can be stored in the vacuole or transported through the cell, creating a variety of molecule chain lengths in the process. The project aims to understand how polyphosphate accumulates and moves throughout the cells during phosphate scarcity. Further defining the role of polyphosphate to cell cycle progression and chain length. These findings will clarify the evolutionary differences between yeast species and their reliance on phosphate-induced acquired stress resistance. |
118 | Leo Moore (Linguistics; Business Analytics & Information Systems, Spring 2024) Using Computational Models to Study Accent Adaptation Previous research suggests that exposure to multiple accents can improve listeners' comprehension of new talkers, even in unfamiliar accents. However this research, and linguistic research more broadly, is limited by researchers' inability to fully know participants' language backgrounds except indirectly through methods like surveys. Machine learning models meanwhile can be designed so that their entire training set is known to researchers. Among other applications this could be important for voice assistants, which have been reported to struggle understanding commands given by people with nonstandard English accents. |
| 119 5:10-5:55 | Ana Teresa Novella Maciel Time-of-day-dependent seizure mortality in a mouse model of spontaneous epilepsy is greatest during the subjective dusk and night. Epilepsy is a common neurological disease characterized by spontaneous seizures. Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is the leading cause of death in patients with medically refractory epilepsy. Dravet Syndrome is a genetic type of epilepsy that is associated with frequent seizures and a high rate of SUDEP. Seizure-associated death occurs more commonly at night. This is also true in multiple mouse models, including the Scn1aR1407X/+ mouse model of Dravet Syndrome. Our lab has shown that the nighttime tendency persists in constant darkness following induced seizures in other mouse models. However, this has not been demonstrated in a genetic mouse model of epilepsy. In this project, mice were placed into constant darkness in individual cages with pyroelectric infrared motion sensors for long-term locomotor activity monitoring. Additiolly, some mice were under constant observation through cameras so that their seizure activity could later be alyzed. Mice were monitored in this manner until experiencing a fatal seizure or until post-tal day 90. In alignment with previous findings from our lab, our results show that Scn1aR1407X/+ mice are more likely to die following spontaneous seizures during the subjective night, suggesting that an endogenous circadian rhythm may mediate the nighttime susceptibility of seizure-associated death. |
120 | Katherine Ogden (Psychology, Spring 2024) A New Chapter for Language Processing: COWA and LESYMAP Analysis Depending on where in the brain a person is injured, they experience different effects to their behavior and thinking. I am looking at the kinds of words said by patients with brain injuries on a language task to see if patients with damage associated with the "animal words" part of their brain name fewer animals compared to patients with damage in other parts of the brain. Because we know where animal words generally 'live,' if the results match our expectations, we can analyze the data from the language task to study where different parts of language live in the brain. |
121 | Peyton Pangburn (International Relations, Spring 2024) Denying Democracy: The Struggle of De Facto States Can de facto states democratize without recognition? Traditional theorists argue that sovereignty is a prerequisite for democratization, while new scholars argue that de facto states can and do democratize. Using data from Freedom House, I compare the democratization trends between de facto states and their parent states. This shows that de facto states can democratize, but it is limited and often plateaus at and regresses to more authoritarian levels. Parent states are also consistently more democratic than de facto states. I then conduct a time-series regression of all de facto states since 1973 to analyze the effect of the level of (partial) recognition on democracy. There is a significant relationship showing that as recognition increases, democracy improves. Thus, to truly support democracy, countries like the United States must also support recognition of de facto states, breaking with international norms that support territorial integrity. |
122 | Taylor Parsons (Neuroscience, Spring 2024) Investigation of impaired consciousness following seizures and identification of its circuitry Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a devastating health problem for those with epilepsy, and 1 in 26 people in the US will develop epilepsy in their lifetime. SUDEP is second only to stroke in the number of years of potential life lost. The mechanisms of SUDEP are highly debated, but a possible factor is the prolonged impaired consciousness following seizures. Our lab has shown that serotonin (5-HT) neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) mediate CO2 arousal and that ventilatory responses to CO2 are impaired following a seizure. We hypothesize that CO2 arousal is impaired following a seizure. To investigate, we used a model of Dravet syndrome, characterized by spontaneous seizures and sensitivity to febrile seizures. Our data suggests an increase in CO2 arousal latency and a significant decrease in hypercapnic ventilatory response (HCVR) post seizure. Additional circuit mapping experiments have shown serotonergic projections from the DRN to the parabrachial nucleus (PBN). These are thought to play a role in CO2 arousal. Following successful mapping, we plan to investigate the involvement of specific neuronal subpopulations and serotonin receptors of the PBN. |
123 | Bansari Patel (Biochemistry/Molecular Biology, Spring 2026) Effect of Age on Chemosensitivity in APP/PS1 Mice Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurological disorder characterized by the accumulation of pathological proteins in the brain and worsening dementia. More than 6 million Americans are living with AD. There is no cure for AD, and current medicines are limited to symptom relief. As AD progresses, it is associated with numerous comorbidities, including respiratory dysfunction. Several animal models exist that recapitulate AD pathology, such as amyloidopathy, but whether these have respiratory dysfunction is unknown. We hypothesized that the double mutant Amyloid Precursor Protein, Presenilin 1 (APP/PS1) mouse will display respiratory dysfunction that worsens with age and will be associated with pathological changes in the brainstem. In this ongoing study, young (2-4 months) and old (> 6 months) APP/PS1 mice are instrumented for EEG/EMG recording to assess sleep-wake state and are allowed to recover. During experiments, mice are exposed to CO2 during wake or sleep while measuring EEG and breathing. Brains are collected after trials for immunohistochemistry to look for the accumulation of amyloid plaques within the brainstem. Older APP/PS1 mice demonstrate impaired arousal and ventilatory responses to CO2. Continuing work will include more trials in mice of both age groups, trials in wildtype control animals, and assessment for brainstem pathology. |
124 | Paige Pearson (Psychology, Fall 2024) Childhood Trauma in College Students: Associations with Schizotypal Characteristics and Distress Schizotypy is conceptualized by a set of characteristics influencing an individual's thoughts, behaviors, and perceptual experiences. Schizotypy may represent a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia-spectrum psychopathology, and has been associated with childhood trauma (CT) and negative affect. Evidence suggests that CT significantly affects motivation, depression, and anxiety increasing the risk of psychopathology. In this study, we recruited healthy undergraduate students with high and low schizotypy across three sites. Associations between positive and negative schizotypy, CT, and negative affect were examined across groups. Early results show that individuals with elevated schizotypal characteristics reported higher levels of CT, negative affect, alongside more severe negative symptoms and presence of psychotic-like experiences. Furthermore, CT was associated with the latter symptoms exhibiting medium effect sizes. These findings suggest that further investigating schizotypy and CT could offer insight into the vulnerability for psychological disorders. |
125 | Maclain Ridder (Human Physiology, Spring 2024) Unhappy Tumors: Novel Metabolic Regulators of Serotonin Biosynthesis in Neuroendocrine Cancers Small bowel neuroendocrine tumors originate from enterochromaffin cells in the intestine which synthesize and secrete serotonin. These elevated serotonin levels may be linked to increased severity of carcinoid syndrome in patients with neuroendocrine tumors. With the use of combination therapies including Tryptophan Hydroxylase (TPH1) inhibitors like Telotristat Ethyl (TE), we have demonstrated a reduction in Serotonin secretion and subsequent tumor growth both in vitro and in vivo. Building upon this finding, we then explored the inhibition of other novel metabolic pathways to further reduce serotonin production. We were able to demonstrate synergistic effects in the reduction of serotonin secretion and tumor volume by combining therapies targeting multiple pathways. |
126 | Joy Curry (History, Spring 2024) “That Baleful and Unnatural Bandage:” Discourses on Beauty, the Body, and Stays in Eighteenth-Century England In eighteenth century England, women wore stiffened bodices called stays to create a fashionable silhouette and shape their bodies into an acceptable form. Since medical and moral advice at the time emphasized preventing crookedness and deformity, and defined these traits in contrast to their ideal of beauty, stays’ role in shaping the body made them an essential part of womens’ lives. However, the artificial nature of stays’ shaping conflicted with expectations of “natural” beauty and played into concerns about women ‘hiding’ their deformities to deceive men. In my research, I examined the role of stays in eighteenth century discourses around the body and the complicated relationships between expectations of beauty, “natural” politeness, and the ways people sought to fulfill those expectations. I also used historical reproduction to examine the methods used to create stays, the decisions that needed to be made in the process, and ways that both the staymaker and his customer would decide how her body would be shaped. I found that both criticism and praise of stays expected women to be ‘naturally’ beautiful; however, women’s attempts to create an expected beautiful, fashionable appearance had to be negotiated with their staymakers, who ultimately determined how stays were shaped. |
127 | Kate Dennis (History, Spring 2024) Women Hobos: A Look into American Hobo Culture This is a digital exhibit through the Hobo Archive. It will feature primary sources such as, oral histories, photographs, memoirs, and videos. The goal of this exhibit is to explore women's experiences within the hobo community while also interrogating stereotypes surrounding the American hobo. |
129 | Sabrina Vlk (Mechanical Engineering, Spring 2025) A Midsummer Night's Dream: A performance in Virtual Reality The goal for this project is to successfully produce a production of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream where the audience members will be wearing a VR headset and the actors will be in motion capture. Over the past year, I have worked on integrated modern VR technology with Unity Game Engine to develop the virtual scenes that will eventually be a part of this production. I've also collaborated with other undergraduate theatre students who have assisted in writing, scene development, and (in the future)acting. |
130 | Lilly Froehlich (Environmental Science/Pre-Veterinary Medicine, Spring 2027) Impact of Climate Change on Airborne Allergens This project is a review of recently published research connecting climate change with an increase in airborne allergens. We will observe how climate change-associated increases in heat and humidity can impact allergies both indoors and outdoors, and what Thorne Lab is doing to help individuals and the community protect themselves from allergens. |
131 | Sehansa Karunatilaka (Human Physiology (BS), Spring 2025) Sociodemographic Determinants of Stress and Depression Among Pregnant Women Purpose: This study examines the associations between socio-demographic factors and stress/depression during pregnancy, aiming to inform interventions for maternal and child well-being. Methods: Participants (n=436) from the ongoing Pregnancy 24/7 cohort study completed assessments during each trimester. Mixed effect models analyzed associations between psychosocial outcomes (stress, depression) and socio-demographic factors. Results: Higher social support and income correlated significantly with lower perceived stress (βsocial support= -0.12, p<0.01; βincome= -0.67, p<0.01) and depressive symptoms (βsocial support= 0.09, p<0.01; βincome= -0.23, p<0.001). No other significant associations were observed. A $50,000 income increase corresponded to a X% reduction in both stress and depression. Conclusions: Findings underscore the importance of social support and income in reducing stress and depression among pregnant women. Future interventions should focus on enhancing social support networks and addressing socioeconomic disparities to improve maternal well-being. |
132 | Faith Rooney (Biochemistry, Spring 2024) PCR and In-Situ Hybridization Analysis of mNeonGreen Knock-In Insertion Wnt5b is a signaling protein secreted from developing cells. To monitor its activity in zebrafish endoderm cells, we attached the mNeonGreen (mNG) fluorescent protein coding region to the zebrafish DNA to create a Knock-In (KI) allele. We inserted the coding region for mNG into intron 6 of the wnt5b gene in zebrafish embryos, as well as the code for a linker protein region that helped to match endogenous protein function, using the Cas-9/CRISPR system. In this process, the desired region of DNA is hybridized to a piece of guide RNA, which recruits the Cas-9 protein to make a double-strand cut. The donor DNA and homology region is created using PCR and inserted to the cut. The embryos containing the KI allele were bred with wildtype fish to produce a generation containing germline mNG. Although the mNG expression in the secondary generation was not detected with confocal microscopy as it was in the founder generation, the presence of the mNG coding sequence in the correct place was detected using PCR to replicate partial sequences of the region and Whole-mount In-Situ Hybridization (WISH), in which the presence of target mRNA is confirmed by a probe that recruits antibodies and a color-changing dye. |
133 | Reese Rosenmeyer (Neuroscience, Spring 2025) DNA Methylation of MAPT in Frontotemporal Dementia Neurodegeneration is a debilitating and complex issue affecting over 15% of the world population[1]. This project researched Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) by lens of genetics and DNA, specifically epigenetic modifications altering gene expression. Investigating these modifications has cued researchers into potential differences regarding neurological diseases. FTD is often associated with the protein MAPT. By determining if there are differences in MAPT between FTD diseased brains and controls, we can decipher whether methylation status is implicated in FTD. Utilizing pyrosequencing, we compared methylation levels between controls and diseased brains. Fresh frozen tissue was obtained from 3 healthy controls and 3 FTD brains. After tissue was prepared and converted to a bisulfite product, we ran a MAPT assay on the Pyromark Q48. Results were obtained and analyzed using the PyroMark Q48 Autoprep software. 63 DNA positions were analyzed by methylation percentage with average methylation per sample deemed the best overall indication of methylation status. It was determined FTD brains experienced on average lower methylation levels overall compared to control brains. Lower methylation levels correspond to an increase in expression of MAPT, correlated with the pathology implicated in FTD. This indicates methylation as a potential target for therapeutic drugs when combating FTD in individuals. |
134 | Sydney Ryan (Microbiology, Spring 2025) ROLE OF SEROTONIN AND CIRCADIAN RHYTHM IN TIME-OF-DAY SEIZURE MORTALITY Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by spontaneous, reoccurring seizures. One in 26 individuals are affected by epilepsy, and 1/3 of these patients are refractory to medication. The leading cause of death in this patient population is sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). SUDEP is considered the death in people with epilepsy, but without apparent cause. Previous research has shown a relationship between time of day and SUDEP. Our circadian rhythm, which regulates our 24-hour internal cycle, and seizure activity are both controlled by the change in the neurotransmitters serotonin (5-HT). This leads to our hypothesis that 5-HT regulates the time-of-day dependence if seizures and SUDEP and eliminating 5-HT will eliminate the time-of-day rhythm. To examine this, 5-HT was depleted with p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA), an inhibitor of 5-HT synthesis in a mouse model of Dravet Syndrome, a genetic epilepsy characterized by spontaneous and heat-induced seizures and a high incidence of SUDEP. Seizure activity and mortality was observed through actigraphy recordings. On-going work will include performing RNA scope on brain tissue following death by heat-induced or spontaneous seizures, to observe how changes in 5-HT levels impact the essential clock genes in our circadian rhythm feedback loop. These results will further explain the role of serotonin on SUDEP. |
136 | Grace Shipley (Geography, Spring 2024) Assessing Ecosystem Services Valuation for a Montane Ranching Community of Rural Mexico Based on Carbon Storage, Habitat Risk & Quality The CICHAZ field station in rural Hidalgo, Mexico conducts biological research related to aquatic habitat related to a unique species hybridization phenomena discovered within the watershed. This study generates additional information for the study on local potential to encourage regenerative ranching and other conservation efforts to protect, restore, and manage local ecosystems. Results can be used for conservation planning that optimizes environmental protection with alternative approaches to economic development based on ecosystem services metrics and a sustainable way of life for local ranchers. |
136 | Yasmeen Halloush (Sustainability Sciences, Spring 2025) Assessing Ecosystem Services Valuation for a Montane Ranching Community of Rural Mexico Based on Carbon Storage, Habitat Risk & Quality The CICHAZ field station in rural Hidalgo, Mexico conducts biological research related to aquatic habitat related to a unique species hybridization phenomena discovered within the watershed. This study generates additional information for the study on local potential to encourage regenerative ranching and other conservation efforts to protect, restore, and manage local ecosystems. Results can be used for conservation planning that optimizes environmental protection with alternative approaches to economic development based on ecosystem services metrics and a sustainable way of life for local ranchers. |
137 | Cassie Sievers (Microbiology, Spring 2024) Tumor-specific brain-resident T cells mediate protection against intracranial malignancy Primary brain tumors and brain metastases are clinically refractory to immunotherapies that demonstrate efficacy in peripheral cancers. While tissue-resident memory (TRM) CD8+ T cells are detected after brain tumor establishment, their utility as an immunopreventative agent has not been queried. Here, we utilized a dendritic cell prime-recombinant Listeria monocytogenes boost (DC-rLM) approach in mice to pre-seed the brain with anti-tumor TRM. Importantly, tumor-specific brain TRM, but not bystander TRM, afforded mice with increased survival against B16 melanoma intracranial tumor models. This protection was confirmed in the absence of circulating memory T cells (TCIRCM). Brain TRM persisted in intracranial tumor survivors out to 100 days post-tumor challenge. To increase translational impact, we designed an mRNA vaccine encoding tumor-derived epitopes. Future work will 1) elucidate the optimal vaccination route to generate brain TRM and 2) determine the effector molecules (i.e. IFN-g, perforin) required for brain TRM-mediated protection. Altogether, these data support that pre-seeded brain TRM can protect against brain tumors, pointing to prophylactic vaccination as a clinically feasible approach to prevent brain malignancies. |
138 | Smita Singhal (Public Health, Spring 2024) Examining Perceptions of Gender Roles in Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in Rural India I am hoping to present my project to fulfill the project presentation requirement for the Certificate of Global Health Studies, and to disseminate the findings of qualitative data collected in Rural India. The purpose of the study is to examine perceptions of gender roles in rural India as they relate to intimate partner violence. The data for the study was collected by my mentor, Professor William Story of the Community & Behavioral Health Department, and his team. I conducted an analysis of interview transcripts collected from married men, married women, unmarried men, unmarried women, unmarried boys, and unmarried girls from villages in rural India using qualitative codes. I wrote code summaries which highlight main themes and key quotes based on the data, sorted by code: attributes of a wife, attributes of a husband, boy-girl interactions, decision making, household roles & authority, and spousal relationships. By synthesizing the coding summaries I constructed, as well as conducting a literature review, I was able to come to many different conclusions about incidence and outcomes of IPV as they relate to perceived gender roles in rural India. |
139 | Kaitlyn Steffen (Human Physiology BS, Spring 2025) Changes in self-efficacy for exercise following a home-based aerobic and muscle strengthening exercise intervention in endometrial cancer survivors Background: Guidelines recommend that endometrial cancer survivors (ECS) complete ≥150 minutes of aerobic exercise (AE) and ≥two days of muscle-strengthening exercise (MSE) weekly, with <10% meeting guidelines (1,2). Self-efficacy (SE), an individual’s perceived capability to perform a given behavior, can be targeted to facilitate exercise behaviors in ECS (3). We aimed to compare changes in SE related to AE and MSE following a 10-week combined exercise intervention. Methods: Ten ECS were recruited for a 10-week home-based AE and MSE intervention from the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Gynecologic Oncology Clinic. At baseline and follow-up participants completed the validated SE for Exercise scale (scored 0-90) for both AE and MSE, with higher scores indicating higher SE (4). Scores were reported as means and standard deviations (SD), with changes evaluated with non-parametric t-tests (p<.05). Results: Mean baseline AE SE was 58.7 (SD=19.1) and MSE SE was 55.7 (SD=19.9). At follow-up, mean AE SE was 66.4 (SD=13.3, p=0.30) and MSE SE was 58.9 (SD=20.2, p=0.78). Conclusion: Though non-significant, both AE and MSE SE were improved post-intervention, with larger improvements in AE. Future studies should consider how SE changes vary by exercise modality and intervention approaches. |
140 | Sedona Swanson (Nursing, Spring 2024) Social Determinants of Health, Time to Treatment, Symptom Burden, and Mortality in Breast Cancer Patients Introduction: Social determinants of health (SDOH), defined as non-medical factors that influence health outcomes, include aspects of someone’s life such as housing and food security, safe housing, healthy relationships, healthcare access, and economic stability (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022). The NIH has also identified SDOH as a high priority research area (National Institute of Health, 2024). Among women with breast cancer, treatment- and disease-related outcomes are highly dependent on financial and social-emotional stability, so understanding the impact of SDOH on patient outcomes is of high priority for researchers and clinicians. Purpose: The purpose of this work is to examine how social determinants of health impact 1) time from initial breast cancer biopsy to treatment, 2) symptom burden, and 3) mortality in a sample of women with breast cancer. Methods: This analysis uses medical record and symptom assessment data from 68 adult women with a diagnosis of breast cancer and receiving chemotherapy. Participants provided demographic information and symptom reports during a scheduled chemotherapy appointment and medical records were reviewed to document distress management scores and SDOH factors. Analysis: Summary statistics (standard deviation, frequencies, means, and ranges) and regression models were used to describe the sample with regard to demographics, symptom burden, SDOH factors and treatment timeline. Results: The most frequently documented SDOH barriers were psycho-neurological difficulties, financial concerns and insurance accessibility. We found that while SDOH did not predict time from diagnosis to treatment (p=0.40), they did significantly predict symptom severity (p=0.04), symptom count (p=<.001 ), and mortality (p=<.001). Conclusions: While we did not find evidence of SDOH impacting time from biopsy to first cycle of chemotherapy, it is apparent that there is a strong relationship between SDOH, symptom burden and mortality. With further research and implementing interventions to eliminate factors contributing to SDOH, we can improve patient outcomes and alleviate symptom burden. |
141 | Mary Thomas (Biomedical Sciences, Spring 2024) Can Chromogranin A be used to predict adverse outcomes in pregnancies? Preeclampsia is a condition associated with pregnancy that affects ~4 million women worldwide each year. Common signs and symptoms include high blood pressure, excess urine protein, shortness of breath, swelling, and headache. Serious complications affecting both mother and child can often result depending on disease severity. Currently little is known about the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, making prevention and treatment difficult. During pregnancy, the placenta releases prohormone Chromogranin A (CgA), a precursor to peptides including catestatin (CST). CST plays a key role in cardiac function and blood pressure regulation by reducing excessive secretion of catecholamines. It also plays a role in balancing oxidative states during various stages of pregnancy. An overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can be detrimental to fetal development, making this a key function. Based on preliminary studies, we hypothesize that CgA protein levels are increased in patients who will develop preeclampsia. To assess this relationship, CgAII KRYPTOR immunoassays were performed to measure concentrations in human plasma samples (IRB#200910784). Data previously received from the participants were then analyzed to identify medical conditions experienced during and after pregnancy. A correlation of increased CgA protein levels in women diagnosed with preeclampsia or preeclamptic symptoms would support our standing hypothesis. |
143 | Sami Watts (Neuroscience, Spring 2024) Ablating Serotonergic Neurons in the Dorsal Raphe Nucleus and Raphe Obscurus Using a Cre Conditional Virus Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, or SUDEP, is the primary cause of death in patients with medically refractory epilepsy. Why some seizures are fatal is poorly understood. Impaired CO2 arousal and breathing following seizures has been implicated in SUDEP. Serotonin neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) are involved in CO2 arousal, and serotonin neurons in the raphe obscurus (ROb) modulate breathing. Serotonergic physiology may be impaired following seizures to lead to death. We hypothesize that ablation of DRN or ROb serotonin neurons will impair arousal or breathing, respectively. We predict this impairment will be exacerbated following seizures and lead to increased mortality. In this ongoing study, serotonin neurons in the DRN or ROb are ablated via viral-mediated activation of apoptosis. Mice are then instrumented for EEG/EMG recording and subjected to CO2 challenges. Animals experience a single maximal electroshock seizure. Brain tissue containing the DRN or ROb is stained using immunohistochemical techniques to appreciate the extent of serotonin neuron ablation. Currently, we are optimizing DRN ablation. Once these surgical techniques are validated, we will begin seizure trials. Strategies being used to optimize viral ablation include angled stereotactic injections to avoid the superior sagittal sinus and cerebral aqueduct and co-injection with a fluorescent reporter virus. |
144 | Ethan Weires (Psychology, Spring 2024) Between and Within-Person Variability in Meaning in Life Predict Antecedents of Suicidal Ideation in College Students. Well-established protective factors, like meaning in life (Costanza et al., 2019), may strengthen individual-level prediction of suicidality and expand the utility of traditional models (Saab et al., 2021). Ambulatory assessment methods are valuable for the identification of short-term risk, variability in suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and correlate profiles (Sedano-Capdevila et al., 2021). The present study examined a series of risk and protective factors as predictors of hopelessness, a prominent antecedent of suicidal ideation, and momentary measures of meaning in life. The primary aim of these analyses was to decompose meaning in life into its subdomains, presence of meaning (PM) and search for meaning (SM), and to evaluate their associations with momentary ratings of hopelessness. 202 undergraduates (mean age = 18.84, 78.7% female, 73.3% white) completed EMA surveys five times per day for seven days (compliance rate = 82.9%). Multilevel models revealed greater levels of between-person and within-person PM predicted lower levels of hopelessness (p<.0001). Additionally, greater within-person SM predicted higher levels of hopelessness (p<.0001). Furthermore, increased within-person variability in both PM and SM predicted greater fluctuations in hopelessness (p<.0001). These findings suggest that both levels and fluctuations in presence and search for meaning may be relevant in predicting suicide antecedents. |
145 | Ellie Wojcikowski (Neuroscience, Spring 2026) Biological Evaluation of Adaptive Traits (BEAT) - Heart Rate Variability (HRV) as an Index of Resilience Heart rate variability (HRV) refers to the beat-to-beat variation in time between successive heartbeats. HRV is measured non-invasively and is thought to be a marker of adaptive capacity. Prior studies suggest that lower HRV is associated with a less flexible autonomic response to stress and may contribute to psychiatric disorders. This study analyzes the relationship between HRV with broad measures of psychological characteristics and well-being in college students with and without elevated schizotypy. Schizotypy reflects subclinical components of schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and may be an informative marker of risk for mental illness. Across the entire sample, we found that HRV was relatively stable over a two-week interval, and higher HRV was associated with lower levels of neuroticism. Reduced HRV was associated with elevated negative schizotypy (i.e., anhedonia and avolition), but not positive schizotypy (i.e., subclinical psychotic-like experiences). Our study demonstrates HRV’s promise as a noninvasive biological marker of psychological functioning. This research could better inform the ways we assess biological symptoms of severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia. |
146 | Angela Wong (Neuroscience, Spring 2024) Neuroprotective potential of naltrexone in juvenile mouse models of temporal lope epilepsy In temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), the most common type of epilepsy, seizures originate from the temporal lobe of the brain. This type epilepsy can be caused by several factors: infections, tumors, certain medications, or even genetics. Inflammation flares in the brain, leading to a process termed epileptogenesis where neural networks are reconfigured and can result in the development of epilepsy. Though there are currently drugs and treatments, nearly a third of the people suffering from temporal lobe epilepsy do not respond well to treatment. In an effort to reduce this statistic, naltrexone (NTX), a mu-opioid receptor antagonist, presents as a potential treatment. Though commonly used to combat alcohol use disorder and opioid use by helping dependents stay substance-free, it has potential as an option to preventing or slowing epileptogenesis. In a study preceding these findings, naltrexone was tested in a different mouse model of epilepsy in which it was administered prior to the stimulant pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) - an injection to induce seizures and epileptogenesis. As a result, it was found that mice injected with PTZ and NTX had reduced numbers of seizures, a potential sign that NTX may reduce neuroinflammation and stop or slow epileptogenesis after a traumatic brain injury. |
147 | Elliah Yoon (Finance and Entrepreneurial Management, Spring 2024) Power to the peers: An investigation of social proof dynamics among age groups and cultural upbringings As humans, we are motivated to understand and make sense of how things work in the world around us. Specifically, we seek to create meaningful connections and properly ‘fit in,’ which notion has been labelled social proof. Several different factors affect one’s susceptibility to social proof, and my research dives into discovering and unpacking some of these factors. Through primary research, I investigate the extent to which a person’s age and cultural background affect one’s susceptibility to social proof. I conducted two studies. The first was conducted with people of all ages from the United States, and the second study was conducted with people of all ages from South Korea and Japan. In both studies, participants took part in an experiment that assessed whether social proof played a part in their decision-making process. In Study 1, I predicted social proof would operate differently between different age groups. Moreover, given that people who reside in the United States have more of an individualistic mindset than those who reside in Asia (who have more of a collectivistic mindset), I predicted in Study 2 that social proof would also work differently across cultures settings. I discuss the conceptual and practical implications of my findings. |
148 | Hannah Zipf (Neuroscience/Premed, Spring 2025) Structural Changes in the Brain Following Electroconvulsive Therapy Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is the most common mood disorder in the world. Studies have shown it is one of the leading causes of disability, has negative effects on interpersonal relationships, has high comorbidity with anxiety and substance abuse disorders, and leads to a lower quality of life. Despite its severity and prevalence, its pathogenesis and treatment response are not fully known. One of the major treatment options is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), where a brief seizure is induced through electrical stimulation while the patient is under anesthesia. The aim of this study was to determine whether structural changes in the brain occur following the treatment course of ECT in people with MDD using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Diffusion weighted images (DWI), T1 weighted, T2 weighted, and resting-state function MRI scans were preprocessed and analyzed using various statistical models. Comparison of patients’ brains pre-treatment and post-treatment revealed significant results in an increase in gray matter in the fusiform gyrus of the right hemisphere. |