Undergraduate Research Conference Spring 2025 Poster Showcase

Neuroblastoma is a rare type of brain cancer. In the United States, approximately 600 to 800 new cases of neuroblastoma are reported annually, equating to around one case per 7,000 live births. High-dose chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the primary treatment options; however, these therapies can cause various short- and long-term side effects. Therefore, novel drug molecules are needed for more targeted and effective treatment. Photopharmacotherapy presents a promising approach by utilizing light to control the biological activity of photoswitchable molecules. Meanwhile, Spirotryprostatin A and Spirotryprostatin B, indole alkaloids isolated from Aspergillus fumigatus, disrupt microtubule assembly, contributing to their anticancer activity. Other spirocyclic compounds, such as spirooxindole, spirooxazole, and spiroindole, have also demonstrated significant cytotoxic potential. Our research focuses on the synthesis and quantification of photoisomers of spiropyran (SP) derivatives, specifically (1) SP, the closed form, and (2) merocyanine (MC), the open form, analyzed through ¹H-NMR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. SP and MC exhibit distinct physical properties, including differences in shape, polarity, hydrophobicity, and biomolecular interactions. These unique characteristics drive our investigation into their potential for growth inhibition in HeLa and BE(2)-CRL-2268 cancer cell lines. Our findings aim to contribute to the development of novel spirocyclic compounds with the potential to inhibit neuroblastoma growth. 
 

My poster displays my design process including costume renderings, budget piece lists, fitting photos, and realized photos from the Texas State Production of the play Oh To Be Pure Again by Kira Rockwell.

Purpose: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent health issue in the Panamanian communities of La Arenosa and El Guayabito. With inadequate access to clean water and healthcare, Panamanians living in rural communities fall susceptible to chronic illnesses such as T2DM. Nurses aim to improve community health and decrease T2DM occurrence by minimizing the socioeconomic barriers to accessing clean water and by providing education on healthy lifestyle choices. Nurses also have a duty to advocate for policies that support communities and equip them with the necessary resources to improve their health outcomes.

Background: Approximately 8.2% of Panamanians were reported to have T2DM in 2021, with the undiagnosed estimated to be over 31.2% of the population. T2DM is responsible for approximately 30.3 deaths per 100,000. In Panama, families earning less than $100 a month, like those in La Arenosa and El Guayabito, are more likely to experience mortality related to T2DM. The communities reported increased consumption of sugary and alcoholic beverages due to affordability and the poor access to affordable and safe water. The communities also reported travel times of over 45 minutes by car to pharmacies, health clinics, and supermarkets, indicating barriers to dietary prevention and treatment. 

Conclusion: Socioeconomic disparities prevent Panamanian access to healthcare, clean water, and healthcare education. As a result, T2DM has become prevalent in rural areas where the population has to commute long distances to access healthcare. Consequently, community members are less likely to be diagnosed and treated, increasing mortality rates. Nurses collaborate with outside organizations to provide education to communities on prevention, and advocate for policy changes necessary to help eliminate these disparities.

 

This poster provides an insightful analysis of Kendrick Lamar's music, focusing on how he masterfully blends storytelling with activism. It highlights Lamar's ability to craft intricate narratives that reflect the personal, social, and political struggles of marginalized communities. Through his vivid storytelling, Lamar addresses issues like systemic racism, inequality, and the complexities of identity, using his own experiences and the voices of others. The poster emphasizes how Lamar’s lyrics are both an artistic expression and a call to action, challenging listeners to reflect on societal issues while also inspiring change. His work serves as a powerful platform for activism, using music as a tool for social justice and raising awareness about important causes. The main example I will use is his Super Bowl LIX halftime show performance (2025). The show contains a lot of hidden meanings and “easter eggs” regarding activism and social conflicts. Kendrick Lamar performed his hit song Humble (2017) with backup dancers dressed in red, white, and blue. As the song began, the dancers stood together to form a U.S. flag. This was to show that we are united and that as a country, we are one. Some could also say that this is a reference to the longtime rivalry of the gangs, “Bloods” and “Crips.” Applying this theory, the mixing of the red and blue suggest that Lamar’s music is so powerful that it can unite anybody and everybody. Additionally, having famous actor Samuel L. Jackson pose as “Uncle Sam” is another detail that can be looked into. This character symbolizes the U.S. government in a star-spangled suit, criticizing Lamar for being “too loud, too reckless, too ghetto” and telling him to “tighten up.” This highlights how Black artists are often pressured to tone down their voices and message. One of the deeper details is before the start of his recent popular song Not Like Us (2024), Lamar states “Forty acres and a mule, this is bigger than the music.” “Forty acres and a mule” refers to a promise made to formerly enslaved people before the start of the Civil War. This promise was not carried through, making this phrase a symbol of the ongoing struggle for reparations and economic justice for Black Americans. 

Texas State University Career Services is a campus organization created to prepare, inspire, and empower students for career success before and after graduation (Career Services FAQ, n.d). The service offers several resources to help students on their career journey including mock interviews, resume-building sessions, LinkedIn profile help, a headshot photos studio, and a professional attire closet. They also hold campus-wide events, including six large career fairs a semester where students can meet organizations in their field of interest to network and learn about available jobs and internships. All these services can be utilized for free by Texas State students and alumni. 

Career Services has seen a lack of engagement from students. We want to understand how independent variables are related to the overall satisfaction of the career services and the number of students serviced. We are researching ways to achieve our goal of increasing student engagement with TXST Career Services, which is our dependent variable, with diverse independent variables such as tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, empathy, social media communications and campus communications. These are research questions for this study:

 
RQ1. What is the relationship between tangibility and student engagement? 
RQ2. What is the relationship between campus communication and student engagement? 
RQ3. What is the relationship between responsiveness and student engagement? 
RQ4. What is the relationship between empathy and student engagement? 
RQ5. What is the relationship between social media and student engagement? 
Q6. What is the relationship between reliability and student engagement?

The relationship between tangibility, campus communication, responsiveness, empathy, social media, reliability and student engagement at Texas State University has not been explored before, which emphasizes the importance of this study. 
 

The rise of social commerce has significantly influenced the way young consumers engage with entertainment and shopping, with platforms like TikTok playing a central role. With 25% of its U.S. users between 18 to 24 years old, TikTok has become a key player in e-commerce by introducing TikTok Shop in 2023. While this feature offers convenience and business opportunities, concerns about data privacy have emerged, particularly with TikTok’s use of personal data to tailor apparel product recommendations. It has raised questions about the ethical implications of its data collection practices and its potential to foster impulsive shopping behavior, especially among younger consumers on their dependency, awareness, and concerns regarding data collection on TikTok Shop. This study employs a mixed-method approach to explore college students’ awareness and concerns regarding TikTok’s data collection practices, specifically related to apparel consumption on TikTok Shop. By analyzing data from semi-structured interviews and survey responses from a national sample, the results of this project will raise awareness of the digital literacy gap that leaves young consumers vulnerable to privacy violations and impulsive purchasing behaviors on social media platforms. The findings will also help social media marketers engage with their consumer audience more safely and effectively. 

Until recently, knowledge of the vaginal microbiome and innate immunological peptides (IIPs) within pregnant and non-pregnant cows has been scarce. Understanding more about this relationship could reduce the cost of reproductive failures, currently about $1 billion dollars annually within the cattle industry. The objective of our study is to investigate the correlation between the vaginal microbiome composition and IIP expression within pregnant and non-pregnant cows. This information could lead to a better understanding of the bovine immune response in relation to reproduction, and result in improved reproductive efficiency through better management practices or genetic selection. To conduct this research, vaginal swabs will be taken from 80 cows at the time of estrus synchronization (day -9) and at the time of pregnancy determination.  Pregnancy will be assessed via rectal ultrasonography 45 days post artificial insemination. 16S rRNA analysis will be performed on these samples to characterize the bacterial population, followed by RT-PCR to assess IIP expression. The relationship between the specific bacteria, peptides, and proteins will be analyzed to compare the microbiome and expression of IIP genes between pregnant and nonpregnant cows. This data will provide insight into the critical interaction between the cow’s innate immune response and reproductive system, closing the gap of knowledge between the vaginal microbiome composition and IIP expression to improve cattle reproductive management practices.
 

Ongoing increases in anthropogenic stressors like soil tilling for agriculture (disturbance, D) and atmospheric and agricultural fertilization (NPK) threaten grasslands. Disturbance exposes seed banks—biodiversity reservoirs2—to direct insolation, temperature shifts, wind, predators, and soil drying3, leading to permanent species loss4 and/or slow recovery. Fertilization elevates light competition, favoring highly productive species aboveground and in seed banks while reducing grassland diversity by suppressing less-competitive species aboveground and in seed banks. Fertilization may also worsen the disturbance effects by further suppressing diversity and recovery, yet their combined impact on seed banks remains understudied.

We examined species richness and seed abundance (i.e., the number of seedlings emerging from seed banks) from soil cores collected from sixteen 25 m2 mesic grassland plots subjected to two years of disturbance (D), fertilization (NPK), both (NPKD), or neither (control). At the beginning of the third year, four 5 cm deep soil cores were collected from each plot and germinating seed richness and abundance were monitored in a greenhouse throughout the growing season.

Species richness did not change with fertilization and/or disturbance but declined over the season under all treatments except disturbance, suggesting that the seed banks in the studied grassland is dominated by spring species. Unlike richness, NPK increased abundance but disturbance and NPKD decreased it across the growing season. Abundance declined with the season in all treatments. These results suggest that short-term fertilization and disturbance may not impact the richness of seeds in shallow soil depth but could lower abundance.
 

Given the importance of school motivation, the current study examined whether positive relationships with parents contributed to Latinx college students' motivation. Additionally, we examined whether familism (i.e., support, obligations, referent) moderated the relations between positive relationships with parents (i.e., mothers, fathers) and academic outcomes. Our highlight the importance of examining the separate role mothers and fathers. Academic motivation increased as students reported more warmth and affection students from their mothers, but fathers' warmth and affection did not impact students' motivation.  Additionally, contrary to our hypotheses familism did not change the relation between academic motivation and parental warmth and affection. These findings suggest that universities should devise programs to foster Latinx students’ connections to their family. 

The other-race effect refers to the finding that human observers more easily recognize faces that belong to one's own racial or ethnic group(s) (i.e., one’s in-group) relative to racial/ethnic out-groups. However, the effect of race during the perception of the typicality and attractiveness of a face is still poorly understood. This study investigated cross-race effects during the perception of the facial typicality and attractiveness of adult female Caucasian and Latina faces. Both sets of faces were viewed by Caucasian and Latino groups of observers, who rated the faces for their typicality and attractiveness on a 7-point scale. Data collection for this study is still ongoing; preliminary results suggest that the two groups of observers perceived faces from their respective in-groups as more typical and attractive than the corresponding out-group faces.
 

The remarkable completeness of the Australopithecus afarensis specimen AL 288-1, otherwise known as “Lucy,” has allowed for extensive study of the locomotive repertoire utilized by the species. While it is generally accepted that Lucy walked bipedally, Stern and Susman (1983) argued that it was with a bent-hip/bent-knee gait rather than with a fully extended lower limb like we see in modern humans. Stern and Susman’s locomotor hypothesis was critically analyzed by configuring a modern reconstruction of their Figure 6, which depicts a posterior view of the left os coxae articulated with the sacrum. Using Avizo, surface scans of first-generation casts of Lucy’s left os coxae and sacrum were aligned behind an image of Figure 6 with a transparent background. From this, three models were created and analyzed. Results indicate that it is anatomically impossible for Lucy’s bones to articulate as is depicted in Stern and Susman’s Figure 6. No support for the bent-hip/bent-knee hypothesis of hominin locomotion is found.
 

According to the CDC, Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is something that has affected over 61 million women and 53 million men in the United States, reflective of reported incidences (CDC, 2024). At least 41% of women and 26% of men in the United States experience some form of relationship-based abuse (Leemis, et al., 2022). Lasting mental health problems are associated with IPV, such as symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD; Leemis, et al., 2022). PTSD is one of the most prevalent mental health issues after surviving IPV, affecting 1 in 3 female victims and 1 in 7 male victims (Leemis, et al., 2022). There are numerous treatment options following a PTSD diagnosis, ranging from pharmaceutical to psychiatric solutions (Sonis & Cook, 2019). Eco-therapy is one modality used to treat PTSD that has been gaining popularity for IPV survivors (Sáez, et al., 2023; Kelly, 2006). An eco-therapy option that has yet to be researched for IPV survivors diagnosed with PTSD is hiking therapy. Hiking therapy is a form of recreational eco-therapy that utilizes a natural setting to facilitate a mind-body connection. There have been multiple studies regarding the benefits of hiking therapy as a form of treatment for PTSD in Veterans (Littman, et al., 2021; Shorer, et al., 2023; Vella, 2023), but no research has been collected regarding hiking therapy for IPV survivors with PTSD. The proposed project would be a literary review highlighting the need for research examining how hiking therapy may assist IPV survivors in managing their PTSD symptoms.

By the end of the 1970s, American citizens’ distrust in their government and institutions had rapidly widened. As distrust and instability grew throughout the decade, the Reagan Revolution of the 1980s only deepened this sentiment, with former President Ronald Reagan pinning Americans’ problems on the government itself. As the United States continues to face growing economic, political, and social instability, working to better understand modern issues by analyzing historical patterns of institutional distrust becomes increasingly important. This article applies the antipolitics theory—a framework that requires the complete rejection of “politics” and the vilification of the government—to the context of the United States to highlight the influence of militarized political and social structures on contemporary issues. The persistent lack of faith in government has directly contributed to the rise of antipolitics, driving the rejection of “traditional politics” to the forefront of American government. While antipolitics has traditionally been applied to Latin American countries, this article seeks to use the theory as an analytical lens rather than a direct assertion to offer a diversified perspective on the challenges facing Americans. Specifically, this article explores the potential implications of applying the antipolitics framework to U.S. political and social instability, focusing on the role of religion, the military, and popular resistance in shaping contemporary issues and discourse. This paper will employ a close reading of primary and secondary sources, such as political speeches, government documents, and newspaper articles. While the paper centers on the rise of antipolitics in the U.S., the analysis focuses on the years of 2015-2025, specifically examining how key modern events, including the 2008 recession and the COVID-19 pandemic, have contributed to growing economic, political, and social instability and the spread of antipolitics in traditional political structures and institutions in the United States. 
 

For many Latin American countries, the pursuit of lasting political, social, and economic stability has been a central historical challenge. In Chile, fluctuating political power structures have historically led to the perception of the military as the sole stable institution, leading citizens to prioritize military solutions while weakening civilian and political institutions. This paper examines the long-lasting effects of militarized political and social structures in Chile through the lens of the antipolitics theory, which is a framework that requires the rejection of “traditional politics” and is often accompanied by a hyper-politicized military. By analyzing the cyclical nature of Chilean governance, this paper will broadly examine how antipolitics has shaped Chilean political and military institutions from the 19th century to the present. Although this paper will provide historical context of the caudillo legacy and the German military missions in the 19th century, the primary focus will be on the influence of antipolitics from the 1973-2025. In addition to tracing the persistence of militarized antipolitics, this article will examine how popular resistance movements have countered and reinforced these dynamics. Furthermore, it will analyze the impact of growing economic and political instability in Chile, with a specific focus on the role of antipolitics in constitutional reform efforts, the COVID-19 pandemic, and political protests. The methodology will involve a close reading of primary sources from archival collections, including government documents and military records. This research will also draw on additional primary sources such as newspaper reports, letters, and speeches, offering insights into how Chile's political and military landscape evolved. By utilizing these sources, this study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how antipolitics continues to shape Chile’s political and social landscape, offering a lens to interpret ongoing governance challenges and the role of resistance in shaping alternative political futures. 
 

There is no known method for creating substituted pyrazolylpyridines from dialkynylpyrazoles. Dialkynylpyrazoles, the first reagent, are not easily accessible. This implies that in order to investigate their potential to create pyrazolylpyridines, they must first be synthesized. The development of novel synthesis techniques for these potential novel drug cores will contribute to future discoveries. Since they serve as the building blocks for more intricate synthesis, future researchers will find it easier to apply the methods and circumstances that have been improved to get a high yield.
 

Special education teachers often have a lower retention rate than regular teachers due to various challenges they face in their work environment. Research has shown that in the United States, special educators are more likely to leave when working in schools where there are higher rates of students living in poverty and more students of color (Billingsley and Bettini, 2019). This long concern has led to many problems, as it threatens the quality of education students with disabilities receive as well as further increases this shortage. It is reported that, in the United States, 49 states have shortages of special educators and enrollment in teacher preparation (Billingsley and Bettini, 2019). This immense shortage is continuing to grow because the demand for special education teachers far exceeds the supply of teachers, creating a chronic national shortage (Billingsley and Bettini, 2019). However, this shortage wasn’t caused by the insufficient number of teachers available. Instead, many school districts require certain qualities that these available teachers may not fulfill, which includes degrees earned, type of teacher preparation completed, fields of academic majors, amount of experience, and certifications held (Boe, Cook. Bobbitt, Terhanian, 1998). To address these issues, this research explores the effect of some factors influencing special education teacher retention, focusing on school climate, student behavior, and professional development of teachers. School climate, which encompasses leadership, collaboration, and support systems, are prerequisites for implementing inclusive education successfully, which also greatly impacts teachers' job satisfaction and their decision to stay. Student behavior, particularly aggressive incidents, may also contribute to teachers leaving their roles, highlighting the importance of schools' responses to such situations. Advanced degrees are directly linked to higher retention rates, suggesting that ongoing education and growth opportunities can positively affect special education teachers' job satisfaction and career longevity. As the teacher turnover rate rises, school districts have to fill the positions with teachers who have not gotten the proper training. Additionally, the money that should be spent towards training the teachers is spent towards hiring teachers to offset the shortage (Billingsley and Bettini, 2019). Since teachers aren’t given the proper training, they end up leaving after a couple years, thus affecting the turnover rate of teachers. Special need teachers need adequate training, but with no funding, it makes it difficult to help these teachers. Our two research questions are as below: 1. To what extent does school climate and student behavior affect special education teachers' retention rate? 2. To what extent does a teacher’s professional development affect the turnover? 

Our methodology is to use the School and Staffing Survey concerning teacher data for the years of 1999 to 2000. This data will allow us to look at the level of education the teachers have reported, the climate and conditions of the environment the teachers were working in, and any aggressive encounters the teachers may have faced while employed.
 

This study aims to explore the relationship between parents' psychological control and mental health outcomes in college students from familistic cultures. Specifically, it investigates how high levels of psychological control impact self-esteem and depression and how familism moderates these relations. By analyzing these associations, this study seeks to shed light on cultural factors that exacerbate the consequences of intrusive parenting.

In the United States, 1 in 54 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (Maenner et al., 2020). Additionally, young children with ASD tend to be less ready for the transition to school as they may demonstrate behavioral, academic, and social struggles that can persist and impact their ability to learn (Ladd et al., 2006). To combat delays in school readiness, therapeutic interventions are used to build essential skills specific to the child such as providing help on fine and gross motor skills, helping to strengthen social-emotional skills, or teaching basic self-care techniques (Jasmin et. al., 2009). The aim of this poster is to answer two questions: 1) how do motor coordination difficulties relate to school readiness among young children with autism spectrum disorder? and 2) how do children with ASD who receive therapeutic intervention compare to those who do not receive these services? Secondary data from the 2022-2023 National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) will be used. The sample will include data from children 3-5 years of age diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (n= 821). Analysis will examine five school readiness domains, including motor coordination, self-regulation, health, early learning, and social-emotional skills, and how these differ for children who have motor coordination difficulties and those who have received therapeutic services. 

Sediment transfer is a phenomenon which negatively impacts marine infrastructure. Problems resulting from sediment transfer include coastal erosion, tracking of contaminated sediments, and shoaling inside of channels. Methods to determine the amount of sediment being transferred often include computational modeling or field measurements collected at discrete points via water sampling. Efforts to increase the understanding of resuspended sediments behind deep draft vessels are being explored through the use of marine electrical resistivity. However, there is a lack of information surrounding the correlation between suspended sediments and electrical resistivity. The objective of this study is to determine a measurable change in water resistivity caused by sediment suspension in a laboratory setting. Through measuring the particle size distribution of clay soil through sedimentation (hydrometer) analysis and the concurrent measurement of electrical resistivity, a relationship will be developed linking resistivity and amount of material suspended in water. It was found that as particles fell out of suspension, a decrease in electrical resistivity was observed. This experimental relationship will assist in interpreting towed marine electrical resistivity surveys as it will provide additional context regarding water resistivity and amount of suspended sediment. If adopted by engineers and modelers, this relationship will guide interpretation of resistivity in the water column, not only behind deep draft vessels, but also for sites with high levels of turbidity.
 

Neuroblastoma is the third most common cancer that is prevalent in children under five. Neuroblastoma develops in nerve tissues, typically in adrenal gland cells, spinal cord cells, or other cells in the embryonic neural crest. When these primitive neurons don’t mature normally, they can begin to divide uncontrollably, forming cancerous neuroblastomas. Currently, no therapies significantly improve the prognosis of high-risk neuroblastoma patients. However, plenty of research is presently being done. Differentiation therapy has been proven to be effective in preventing relapses of a subset of high-risk neuroblastomas. For neuroblastomas resistant to current differentiation therapy, new differentiation is needed. One form of novel differentiation therapy is using differentiation-inducing microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNAs are non-coding molecules that regulate gene expression. miRNAs such as miR-506-3p have been shown to have strong differentiation-inducing functions. The effectiveness of miR-506-3p was measured via neurite data taken by an Incucyte machine and MTT data, which was obtained through the Epoch Microplate reader Gen5. This data produces an IC50, the concentration of a treatment needed to inhibit cell growth, and an EC50, the half-maximal response of the neurite length. My results show that wildtype miR-506-3p has an IC50 of 8.448 nM, and miR-506-3p does have the potential to induce differentiation in the neuroblastoma cell line BE(2)-C.  The objective of my research is to gather further evidence that wildtype miR-506-3p and its analogs are potent inducers of cell differentiation in a neuroblastoma cell line BE(2)-C. This will be done by measuring the dose-dependent effect of miR-506-3p and its analogs on neurite outgrowth, the differentiation marker in neuroblastoma cells. My findings from this study will allow further research into the effect of miR-506-3p and its analogs on other neuroblastoma cell lines available.
 

Previous research on bilingual education has tended to focus on adults’ perceptions, including those of parents’ (Lee, 1999; Ramos, 2007) and teachers (Freire, 2021). More research is needed on children’s perceptions on their own bilingual education.

The primary objective of this research project is to explore Texas children's perceptions on their own bilingualism and bilingual education. Understanding these perceptions can help teachers, school leadership, and policy makers make better informed decisions that take into consideration those who the school system serves.

Acknowledging the tendency in previous research to focus on the perspectives of adults, in this study we focused on children. We build on studies that have found students’ preference for English over their home languages (Martin & Stuart‐Smith, 1998), a simultaneous support for bilingual education and a desire to transition into non-bilingual classes (Lee, 2006), and the influence that families have on children’s perceptions (Peace-Hughes et al., 2021).

Tenets from sociopolitics of bilingualism (García, 2011) guided this study. We attended to how language serves as a symbol associated with identity and solidarity, but also with domination and power. How this symbolic influence unfolds is highly contextual. Language and political ideologies are enmeshed, pulling and pushing identity formation in different directions.

This study took place in two public elementary schools in Central Texas. Participants included 91 children in grades second to fourth, all of whom attended Spanish-English dual language classrooms.

We video-recorded focus groups interviews with groups of four to five students. Each focus group took between 20 and 40 minutes. Questions prompted students to reflect on the importance of bilingualism for them and for their families, the languages they use at home, and their teachers' expectations on language use. Responses were transcribed.

We conducted thematic analysis of focus group data (Massey, 2011). First, each researcher conducted repeated attentive viewing and reading of the transcripts. We annotated transcripts, indicating common children’s perceptions. Then, we discussed annotations, identifying patterns. In the final stage, we labeled themes.

Latinx children for whom Spanish is their home language tended to view their bilingualism as an asset, one of them being helping the people around them, at school and their homes and communities. Children showed an empathetic duty to help their peers and their families by translating for them. Another way Latinx children viewed their bilingualism in a positive manner included being proud, highlighting that knowing two or more languages was a sign of intelligence. For white students for whom English is their home language, their reason for learning Spanish looked somewhat different from Latinx students. Students mentioned having opportunities to travel the world and getting a higher salary due to being bilingual. Our poster will illustrate these findings with quotes from children and frequency of themes.

Unlike other studies that found that students often favored English (Martin & Stuart‐Smith, 1998), children in our focus groups tended to value bilingualism. Some students, however, reflected a narrative about bilingualism as a right and as a resource for intergenerational communication. Other students reflected a utilitarian narrative that emphasized the possibility of better employment opportunities. In these contrasting perspectives we see an opportunity for teachers and teacher educators. Besides teaching language and teaching content in two languages, it seems promising to teach children about the purposes of bilingualism and the opportunities they have as bilingual children.
 

Research examining language-based biases in children has consistently found that monolingual and bilingual children prefer social partners that speak the child’s native language with a native accent (reviewed in Spence et al., 2021). Although these preferences suggest that language is a salient social group marker that guides children’s choices, less is known about whether young children explicitly understand the metalinguistic motivations behind their social preferences. Moreover, given that language as a social group identifier may be impacted by perceptions of language status (Kinzler et al., 2012), the tendency to explicitly mention language as a justification for social choices may show different developmental trajectories for monolingual versus bilingual individuals.  

To examine metalinguistic justifications across development, we tested N  = 149 children aged 4-7 years (102 English monolinguals, 47 Spanish-English Bilinguals) and N = 173 emerging adults aged 18-29 years (93 English monolinguals, 80 Spanish-English bilinguals). All participants viewed the same six videos, each of which presented two animal puppets that differed in their spoken language. Videos captured key language contrasts, including Spanish vs. native-accented English, native-accented versus non-native accented speakers, and code-switching versus native-accented speakers. After each video, participants were asked which puppet they would rather be friends with and then asked why they had selected that puppet. We coded justifications into one of three categories: (1) explicitly metalinguistic (e.g., “They spoke entirely in Spanish”; “They have an accent”), (2) related to vocal quality (e.g., “Not as demanding in tone”; “Sounded more respectful”), or (3) non-language related (e.g., “He wanted pizza”; “He's so nice”).

Collapsed across language contrasts, adults showed significantly higher rates of both explicit meta-linguistic references (44.7% of adult responses vs. 9.5% of child responses) and references to vocal quality (18.9% of adult responses vs. 3.3% of child responses). Preliminary analyses indicated that for children, the usage of language-related responses increased with age for monolingual (M4-5y=5.28% vs. M6-7y=20.68%, p=.03) but not bilingual children (M4-5y=11.83% vs. M6-7y=13.69%, p = .834). In adulthood, reference to vocal quality was higher for monolinguals (21.2% of monolingual responses vs. 15.6% of bilingual responses), but explicit language references were lower (42.0% of monolingual responses vs. 48.8% of bilingual responses). On-going analyses will examine whether effects vary for particular language contrasts and how justifications relate to participants’ social preferences.

Our results suggest potential differences in the developmental trajectory of how monolingual and bilingual individuals justify making choices between speakers of different languages. Monolingual children initially referenced language at a lower rate than bilingual children, but showed an age-related increase in metalinguistic justifications. By adulthood, monolingual individuals were more likely to implicitly reference language (e.g., generic vocal quality) than bilingual individuals, who were more likely to explicitly mention language or accent. These findings indicate that similar to other social identity markers—like race (e.g., Apfelbaum et al., 2008; Pauker et al., 2017)—background may impact ability and willingness to discuss language as a marker of social identity, with implications for intergroup relations and social interactions.
 

 The poster will include visuals from music artists such as Chappell Roan, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar. The example that has had much attention over the past election season was when Billie Eilish performed her song “tv” on her Hit Me Hard and Soft tour. One of the lyrics she sang in front of thousands of people referenced the government overturning Roe vs. Wade. It is very important that this is included within the poster because “currently, 63% say abortion should be legal in all or most cases” (Pew Research Center). This is just one of many examples that show that artists care about modern contemporary issues and have a role in spreading awareness about them along with shaping how others view the issue. Kendrick Lamar’s fiery halftime performance at the 2025 Super Bowl and the impact it had on a national audience following the 2024 election will also be examined. Additionally, I am also going to include a survey I conducted with students from my African American Popular Music class. The survey will ask two questions, “did a pop artist's political statements or language within their music or otherwise influence your vote in the most recent 2024 election.” and “on a scale from 1 to 5 how much do artists influence your political beliefs, 1 being very little to none and 5 being a lot. The survey will be non-random, but responses will remain anonymous. It will include the charts that are generated from the results of the survey and will show whether people in my class believed artists had an impact on their personal political decisions.
 

As General Chemistry 1 Learning Assistants (LAs), our role is to work alongside students and help further their understanding of chemistry while analyzing their thinking, with support from an LA Pedagogy course. Our interview project for this course hones in on the topic of chemical reactions and aims to understand how non-STEM undergraduate students think about our topic. This project helps LAs and instructors formulate effective questions that can provoke thoughtful ideas within their students. We conducted 30-minute clinical interviews with four non-STEM undergraduate students and asked them varying questions to provoke the thought process behind their conclusions. We presented three scenarios to them that involved concepts within chemical reactions, such as conservation of mass, chemical changes, and physical changes within reactions. One assumption in clinical interviews is that students can reach conclusions based on correct observations even when they lack the scientific background to apply these correct observations. In this poster, we will consider occasions where students utilize terminology not relevant to the presented scenarios but relevant in general chemistry. Conversely, we will also consider instances where students understood the concepts in the scenarios but lacked adequate terminology for their observations. The results presented in this study demonstrate the different ideas undergraduate students bring to a topic they lack a concrete understanding of. Instructors can take this knowledge and attempt to build on the ideas their students initially have to help further their understanding of concepts they inherently know but may not be applying correctly. 
 

Chronic wounds impact a large global population. They are often infected with biofilms, resilient bacteria living in an organized matrix. Disruption of these biofilms is key to allowing wounds to heal. There are currently a wide variety of treatment options that are largely ineffective at disrupting biofilm. Dynamic, photothermal, agarose-based hydrogels containing hyaluronic acid have the potential to fill this gap in treatment. The dynamic nature of our hydrogels coupled with photothermal therapy can mechanically disrupt the biofilm. Additionally, hyaluronic acid is known to bacteriostatic properties as well as promote a wound healing environment. This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization and cytocompatibility of these hydrogels and their components in mammalian cells as models of the wound bed. Conductive polymeric nanoparticles of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) will be added to the hydrogels to act as photothermal agents. Nanoparticles were prepared using an oxidative emulsion polymerization process. This process produced nanoparticles with a diameter of <100 nm, an absorption peak at approximately 760 nm in the near infrared range, and photothermal properties. Hydrogel synthesis produced dynamic gels with a gel-to-solution transition temperature of 55°C and various molecular weights and concentrations of hyaluronic acid solutions showed to be cytocompatible with L-929 fibroblast cell line.
 

Stretching has always been an integral part of the warm-up routine; however, the controversy over its proper execution still stands to this day. While static stretching is traditionally used for enhanced flexibility, some studies attribute static stretching to the cause of loss of strength and power. On the other hand, dynamic stretching has been linked with enhanced speed and power but also contributes to muscle fatigue. This study aims to compare the effects of static stretching versus dynamic stretching in various key physical performance metrics, including endurance, power, agility, flexibility, and range of motion. For 10 weeks, 20 subjects will be switched between static and dynamic stretching protocols in a controlled testing environment. All phases of the experiment will be assessed using timed sprints, jump tests, agility drills, and measurements of flexibility. Heart rate monitoring and participant feedback will provide additional physiological and subjective insights. The collection of data produced by this study will help provide evidence-based recommendations for athletes, coaches, sports medicine professionals, and more on the best approach for optimal warm-up routines to enhance performance.
 

J. Cole is not only a successful artist, but a lyricist who uses music to share and relate personal experiences with listeners. J. Cole’s music gained popularity because listeners could relate to the struggles he opened up about. His lyrics have evolved with changes in his personal life and career. This evolution will be broken down and examined to draw a conclusion about whether his music contains fewer personal experiences over time. This poster will present an analysis of the lyrics and message in J. Cole’s debut mixtape The Come Up (2007) and later releases such as The Off-Season (2021) and his single “MIDDLE CHILD” (2019). Very little has been published about the evolution of his lyrics and the artist himself; that is, until the recent public feud concerning fellow artists Drake and Kendrick Lamar. Despite this, there exists a scholarly article (Rudrow 2020) that discusses storytelling in a very popular J. Cole song, “Wet Dreamz” (2020). This poster will expand on the discussions in the piece by Rudrow, whilst comparing this to other music by J. Cole. The poster will provide context to J. Cole’s background captured in his lyrics and an illustration of the conclusions drawn from the analyses.

This poster explores the significant yet often overlooked role of African American music in shaping the heavy metal genre. Blues, funk, and African dance traditions contributed to the musical and performative elements of early heavy metal, yet today, the genre’s audience is overwhelmingly white. This study seeks to understand why heavy metal failed to sustain a significant African American following despite these foundational influences. By examining musical structures, religious influences, and socio-political factors, this research aims to shed light on the racial divide in heavy metal and how it reflects broader cultural shifts in music consumption.

Music streaming services like Spotify have become the dominant way listeners discover music, with algorithmic recommendation systems playing a major role in determining which artists gain visibility. While these algorithms are designed to enhance user experience, they may also reinforce biases that disproportionately affect Black artists, confining them to genre-specific playlists and limiting their exposure in mainstream music categories.

This study examines whether Spotify’s algorithm systematically favors non-Black artists and whether Black musicians are restricted to hip-hop and R&B recommendations rather than gaining cross-genre visibility. By analyzing Spotify’s API-generated playlists, conducting a controlled experiment with new user accounts, and simulating collaborative filtering models, this research assesses the extent of racial bias in algorithmic music discovery.

The findings of this study will contribute to discussions on algorithmic fairness in AI-driven music recommendations and offer potential solutions for reducing bias in digital music distribution. This research is relevant to scholars in computer science, digital media, and cultural studies, as well as music industry professionals and AI ethics advocates interested in ensuring fair representation for Black artists in streaming platforms

Children who experience health issues frequently report feelings of loneliness due to their conditions (McCartney, 2022). One possible mechanism for this association is the child’s functional limitations (restrictions in performing basic physical and mental actions; Zhang & Chen, 2024) related to their conditions. These limitations can affect central aspects of quality of life and psychosocial/role functioning, including emotional state and relations with others (Witt et al., 2003). Furthermore, children who are lonely are more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviors including decreased academic performance, fighting, smoking, and destroying property (Stickley et al., 2014). The proposed study will utilize correlations to examine the bidirectional impact between 5th grade children’s functional limitations, loneliness, and risky behavior. It was hypothesized that children who have more functional limitations will suffer from more loneliness and engage in more risky behaviors. Data used for the proposed study comes from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development- Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (NICHD-SECCYD). The participants included 848 5th grade children (50.0% female). The children were predominantly White (82.8%), from 10 different states, with an average family income of $45,164. 

Preliminary analysis produced results consistent with the hypotheses. Pearson’s correlation showed a significant correlation between functional limitations and loneliness, r(848) = 0.221, p < 0.001. A significant correlation was also found between functional imitations and risky behavior, r(848) = 0.171, p < 0.001. These findings suggest that functional limitations impact both children’s loneliness and risk taking behavior.  This suggests future research should examine longitudinally the effects of functional limitations in the relationship between general health issues and loneliness on future risky behavior. Discussion of the results and implications will be presented in the poster.

Sustainable beef production is critical for national prosperity as it contributes significantly to food security, strengthens the rural economy, and promotes ecosystem services. However, the disconnect between the public and agriculture is increasing and is also reflected in students pursuing agricultural degrees. This disconnect further threatens agriculture industries as misinformation may skew perceptions and influence understanding of beef production. This study assessed changes in college students’ understanding and perceptions of beef production before and after an immersive beef industry tour. College students studying agricultural sciences (n=26) attended a 5-day beef industry tour in the Texas Panhandle in May 2024, which included cow-calf operations, feedlots, and a packer. Identical surveys were conducted before and after the tour and paired sample t-tests were conducted. As a result of the tour, students felt sustainability was easier to understand (P=0.02) and also reported improved understanding of the environmental impacts of production (P≤0.01), economic factors affecting production (P≤0.01), and the role technology has in the beef industry (P≤0.01). When asked if environmental impacts of the beef industry were a major concern, fewer students agreed after the tour (P=0.04). Further, student’s levels of agreement significantly increased after the tour when asked if beef production positively contributes to the rural economy (P≤0.01), if technology improves animal welfare (P=0.03), and if the industry is modern and innovative (P≤0.01). Data indicate experiencing the beef industry enhances understanding and positively influences perceptions of production aspects, including sustainability. Findings suggest immersive tours of production agriculture may minimize public disconnect from agriculture. 
 

School environments encourage students to interact with each other and form peer relationships. Research has shown existing relations among peer interactions, executive functioning, and academic achievement and that these are influenced by Theory of Mind, the ability to consider the role of mental states in behavior. The present study will investigate the potential relationship between an aspect of executive functioning called inhibitory processing (IP) and Theory of Mind. Specifically, IP might correlate with Theory of Mind and quality of adolescent friendships. We will explore this by investigating components of quality of friendship: companionship, affective bonds, and respective appraisal. By understanding the relations among Theory of Mind, inhibitory processing, and the quality of adolescent friendships, we can begin to understand patterns around how adolescent friendships might affect social cognitive development. This study will be conducted through an online survey at a public high school in which students will self-report their three closest friends at school and answer a 9-item friendship scale questionnaire for each friend. Each student will also complete a Theory of Mind question and complete the Flanker Task as a measure of inhibitory processing. We expect to find positive correlations among Theory of Mind, inhibitory processing, and friendship quality.

PURPOSE: This study explores TikTok usage and engagement with mental health posts by individuals with and without Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The aim of this study was to examine differences in TikTok addiction, social comparisons, exposure to mental health content, and engagement with the platform among those with MDD. 

METHOD: Participants were 210 adults aged 18-25 (M = 18.9, 87.6% Female, 46.6% Hispanic) were assessed for a provisional diagnosis of MDD and completed questionnaires about TikTok use and engagement of mental health posts on TikTok. RESULTS: Participants with MDD exhibited higher levels of TikTok addiction (p<.001, d=.52), made more frequent upward (p=.003, d=.41) and downward (p=.001, d=.52) social comparisons, and had higher FOMO scores (p<.001, d=.61). They were more likely to engage with mental health-related TikTok content, particularly posts related to depression (p<.001, d=.77), anxiety (p<.001, d=.76), and ADHD (p<.001, d=.79). MDD participants also showed greater interaction with mental health content, including checking comments (p<.001, d=.60), following creators (p=.028, d=.31), and googling disorders (p<.001, d=.52). Additionally, they were more likely to take action after viewing content, such as seeking more information (p<.001, d=.58) or finding a supportive community (p=.017, d=.33). 

CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that individuals with MDD engage with TikTok differently, particularly in relation to mental health content. Increased engagement and social comparison behaviors may exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and worsen mental health outcomes. These results highlight the need for further research on the impact of social media platforms like TikTok on mental health, particularly among vulnerable populations
 

During memory consolidation, new memories are strengthened for long-term storage. Whereas ample research indicates that consolidation proceeds during sleep, recent theories suggest that wakeful rest (WR), a period of reduced attention to the external environment, may also promote consolidation. Evidence for this possibility is mixed and may depend on how memory is tested. In the current study, all participants completed two consecutive sessions in which they watched a 5-min video, took an immediate memory test, and then took a delayed memory test after a 15-min break in which EEG was recorded. In one session, the break was filled with WR and in the other, a distractor task (DT). Participants also completed mind-wandering questionnaires to determine how attention was allocated during the breaks. For half of the participants, memory tests were multiple choice, for the other half, they were free recall. For participants who took multiple-choice tests, memory decreased across the break, in both WR and DT sessions. For participants who took free recall tests, memory did not change across the break in either session, indicating that memory was more robust when tested with free recall. Additionally, analyses of questionnaire data demonstrated that participants’ thoughts were more internally directed during WR than when completing the DT. Also, as time focused on internal thoughts during the break increased, memory retention across the break increased. Thus, memory consolidation appears to progress during WR if thoughts are internally focused. EEG analyses will determine how neural oscillatory activity relates to internally-focused attention during WR.
 

Extracurricular activities provide opportunities for socialization, mentoring, and the exploration of personal interests. Research also reveals that participation in extracurricular has positive implications for long-term mental health. Past studies have examined the different types of extracurriculars and their predictive relationship with mental health, highlighting the benefits of certain activities such as sports and music clubs. However, previous literature has solely focused on data from North America and Europe, leaving a gap in research on the effects of extracurricular participation on mental health in other regions. To address this gap, the present study examined the relationship between extracurricular involvement and mental health among South Korean adolescents using the nationally representative data of South Korean students. By studying this relationship, we can gain insights into the types and extent of extracurricular activities that support students under high academic pressure. Participants included 7,324 ninth-grade South Korean students (50.5% girls). Preliminary analyses showed that participation in sports had the strongest positive relationship with mental health, suggesting that students engaged in athletic activities experienced enhanced well-being. In contrast, involvement in art-related extracurricular activities exhibited the strongest negative relationship in mental health, indicating that students participating in these activities may have reported higher levels of anxiety or other emotional challenges. These findings provide preliminary evidence on how different types of extracurricular activities could affect students’ mental health and suggest that encouraging South Korean adolescents to join sports clubs could help improve their mental health.
 

The Aza-Bergman cyclization of nitrogen-containing enediynes and related diynes has been proposed to involve diradical intermediates. However, in no cases have these diradical intermediated been proven to exist through trapping experiments, in which the diradicals undergo either atom transfer or cyclization reactions. Density Functional Theory calculations have indicated that the aza-Bergman cyclization of 1,5-dialkynylpyrazoles may afford diradicals that are more readily trapped than in case of other diyne systems. We postulate that different pendant alkene chains can have an impact on facility of intramolecular trapping of the diradical that may be formed by the aza-Bergman cyclization of 1,5-dialkynylpyrazoles. This project aims to systematically vary the position and steric bulk of the alkene pendant side chains on the 1,5-dialkynylpyrazoles to measure the effects on the radical trapping products. The synthesis of the side chains began by the oxidation of a 4-pentyne-1-ol into the aldehyde 4-pentyne-1-al, which was then reacted with the appropriate Witting reagent, methyl (triphenyl-phosphoranylidene) acetate, to yield the first desired chain. Another alkene pendant chain was synthesized using 4-pentyne-1-al and a similar Witting reagent, methyl 2-(triphenylphosphoranylidene)propanoate, phosphorous to yield an alkene chain that was methylated. Further modification to these chains will include bulkier substituents at the terminal ends of the alkene chains to measure how those intramolecular interactions affect the diradical trapping.
 

In today’s competitive digital landscape, eCommerce brands must allocate their advertising budgets strategically to maximize return on ad spend and customer acquisition. This study analyzes multi-region marketing spend and purchase data from platforms like Google, Meta, and TikTok to uncover insights into ad effectiveness. Using predictive modeling techniques—including linear regression, machine learning algorithms (XGBoost, Random Forest), and time series forecasting—we examine the relationship between ad spend, engagement metrics (clicks, impressions), and consumer purchases. Additionally, optimization methods are applied to identify the most cost-effective budget distribution across platforms. Through scenario analysis and marketing attribution techniques, this research evaluates how advertising investments influence overall sales and customer acquisition costs. The findings will offer data-driven strategies for eCommerce brands to enhance marketing efficiency and maximize digital advertising impact.
 

As society advances in medicine, technology, and education, there has been a decline in intimate social connections (Bartolini et al., 2013). Since the 1970s, U.S. marriage rates have declined by nearly 57%, reaching a historic low (Carlson, 2020). Due to the drop in marriage rates, people are looking for other ways to improve their relationships. Self-help books can provide accessible, private, and affordable alternatives to professional relationship counseling (Bergsma, 2008).

Previous research has investigated the effectiveness of self-help books, finding that while those emphasizing problem-oriented strategies are beneficial for people with specific issues, books focusing on personal growth topics have been less effective in improving people's well-being (Bergsma, 2008). This suggests that books lacking tailored advice for people may do more harm than good (Georgia, 2013). One of the most popular areas of self-help books is couple relationship books, selling approximately 10 million copies a year. However, little is known about the relative effectiveness of these books, and how their content compares to current research on healthy couple relationships (Shaked, 2005).

The goal of this study is to explore empirically what factors make for effective couple relationship self-help books, with a focus on the integration of evidence-based research and practical strategies. We hypothesize that common criticisms of couple relationship self-help books may focus on the perceived lack of evidence-based advice, reliance on generalizations, and potential misalignment with established relationship research. We want to know if relationship books apply a kind of “Girl Math” to love, which is a way of justifying anything with playful, often illogical reasoning to make it feel like a win. Since there is limited research evaluating the effectiveness of couple relationship self-help books, we sought to systematically review Amazon’s top 45 best-selling books while comparing them with evidence-based strategies and skills shown to improve couple relationships.

Our study involved students from a Texas State University (N=39, 97% female) research methods class. Each student reviewed two books, resulting in two independent reviews for each of 45 books, allowing for triangulation of results for our content analysis. The surveys asked students to document their favorite quotes and identify any problematic content, such as gender stereotyping or outdated perspectives. Participants also rated various aspects of the books on a 0-5 scale, including practical application, scholarly merit, and social awareness. Additionally, students were asked to highlight up to 20 best-practice relationship skills in the books, rating each on a 0-5 scale based on how well they were demonstrated. Fifteen core best practices were identified by previous research to help students locate them in the books they are reading. Some of the core best practices include: communication fundamentals, building trust, and conflict management. Currently, students are finalizing their survey data which will be compiled by an undergraduate researcher and we will employ a grounded coding protocol, beginning with Open Coding, followed by Axial Coding, and concluding with Selective Coding to analyze the data. Additionally, descriptive data on each book will be averaged across the two readers to share more information about the effectiveness of each of these books. A final summary of these findings will be presented as a poster at the Undergraduate Research Conference in April 2025.
 

The period of relatively peaceful, mutually beneficial relations between the Comanche peoples and German settlers of Fredericksburg, Texas is sometimes described as an ""anomaly"" among the histories of European-colonial and Indigenous American contact. This period serves to challenge our typical understanding of colonial power dynamics along the mid-19th-century Texas frontier. The period was characterized by a mutual recognition of both societies' capacity for warfare, as well as a pervasive sense of desperation and aversion to violence. This dynamic led to the negotiation of formal terms for peace. The Meusebach-Comanche treaty of 1847, facilitated by the concerted efforts of German settlers and Penateka Comanche leaders, ushered in a period of peaceful coexistence between the Fredericksburg Germans and Comanche peoples of the Texas Hill Country. This treaty not only ensured peaceful coexistence but also facilitated remarkable cultural exchange through cooperation and free trade. Among these cultural products are numerous unique items, including the art of Friedrich Richard Petri, as well as the German-Comanche language translation glossaries by Heinrich Berghaus and Emil Kriewits, the latter of whom lived with and acculturated among the Penateka in order to serve as an intermediary. Beyond these historical artifacts, a vivid memory of the Comanche persists in the oral history of Fredericksburg, best exemplified by the annual tradition of the "Osterfeuers," said to have been appropriated from an Indigenous practice of lighting bonfires atop the hills around Fredericksburg that became associated with the holiday of Easter.

 

Lunar phobia is a species-specific trait which causes some bat species to decrease activity in response to increased moonlight. Using data from NABat, an acoustic monitoring program for bats across North America, we investigated the activity of eight Texas bat species to see which expressed an aversion to moonlight. Morphology differences, predation changes, prey availability, and different foraging strategies are all possible explanations for lunar phobic behavior, yet no conclusion has been reached for its true cause. Texas is home to 29 regularly occurring bat species which serve as natural insect population control and offer large economic benefits to the agricultural industry. However, wind farm fatalities, White-nose syndrome, and pesticide usage are all actively depleting bat populations in the state. Understanding bat response to changing moonlight levels can lead to management changes to conserve Texas bat populations.  
 

Neuroblastoma is a common pediatric malignancy that arises from neural crest cells, presenting significant treatment challenges due to their aggressive nature and resistance to standard therapies. This study highlights the anti-cancer potential of colchicine, a microtubule-disrupting agent, which was tested on two different neuroblastoma cell lines: Kelly and BE(2)-C. The cells were cultured and treated with serial diluted concentrations of colchicine. Cell viability was assessed using an MTT assay to evaluate the cytotoxic effects with the IC50 value representing the concentration that reduces cell viability by 50%, thereby quantifying colchicine's effectiveness. The IC50 values of each neuroblastoma cell line will be compared with each other to assess which cell line is more sensitive to colchicine. The results can provide insights into how colchicine can act as a potential therapeutic agent for neuroblastoma, emphasizing its differential effects on distinct neuroblastoma cell line subtypes.
 

The question of why people use drugs has long been a debate between nature and nurture. Are people born with a predisposition for drug use, or do their experiences, such as family dynamics, shape them into the users they become? Despite the perceived significance of the relationship between  parenting styles and drug use, research on this direct relationship remains limited, with much of the frequently cited literature originating from the 1990’s. Numerous significant events have occurred between the 20th and 21st centuries, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the opioid and fentanyl crisis, the digitalization of the modern world, and  more. Each of these events has shaped families into what they are today, highlighting the need for a modern study examining the relationship between parenting style and drug use. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between parenting style and drug use using the latest nationally representative dataset collected in 2022 (National Survey on Drug Use and Health), with 11,969 participants aged 12-18 years (48.2% female) (51.8% male). Preliminary results indicate a positive relationship between maladaptive parenting styles and youth drug use.  The results suggest that more argumentative parenting styles elicit a greater likelihood of drug use in adolescents. Findings underscore the potential importance of fostering healthy communication and supportive parental relationships to reduce substance use among youth. Additional results and discussion will be presented at the conference. 
 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in public schools are a highly contested public policy issue. Many U.S. public schools have scaled back their DEI programs due to shifting political influences and uncertainties about federal funding. With millions of dollars allocated annually on DEI training and service contracts (U.S. Department of Education, 2025), this issue necessitates further economic analysis. Does faculty diversity in public schools influence teachers' job satisfaction and their overall attitudes toward the teaching profession? This paper examines the effect of diversity at the peer level and how it relates to job satisfaction among teachers. Understanding this key factor in public school staffing may explain variations in teacher retention, school climate, and overall public education quality.

Previous research indicates that student-teacher and administrator-teacher racial congruence has a significant positive impact on job satisfaction (Fairchild et al., 2012). The same study suggests that teacher demographics, specifically age and gender, are closely associated with job satisfaction. Higher job satisfaction, naturally, improves teaching quality and student performance (Wilson, 2008). Although prior literature has explored the effects of diversity in student-teacher and teacher-administrator relationships, fewer studies have examined faculty diversity at the peer level.

This paper investigates the relationship between faculty diversity and teachers' overall job satisfaction. Relational demography theory suggests that the level of diversity within a school's teaching staff is negatively associated with teachers' job satisfaction (Fairchild et al., 2012). However, alternative perspectives argue that diversity promotes innovation and inclusion, potentially leading to a positive workplace climate (Ayscue, 2016). This study aims to clarify these relationships through empirical analysis.

To test this, we utilize the 1999-2000 Schools and Staffing Survey (SASS) Public School Teacher data, a nationally representative dataset collected by the U.S. Department of Education. SASS remains one of the most comprehensive sources for analyzing teacher job satisfaction and workplace diversity, containing detailed information on faculty demographics and self-reported satisfaction from 42,086 teachers across the United States. While the dataset is over two decades old, it serves as a benchmark for understanding long-term trends in faculty diversity and job satisfaction. Given the lack of equivalent contemporary datasets, SASS enables us to understand the impact of diversity on teacher experiences in retrospect. We employ an OLS multiple regression model to measure the influence of faculty demographic composition on job satisfaction across all demographics within the dataset. The findings of this study may inform public school policy decisions, particularly regarding DEI hiring and staffing choices, by providing insights into how faculty diversity affects workplace satisfaction and retention.

How can we restructure modern economic development programs and plans in U.S. cities to prioritize and achieve social equity? The goal of the research is to analyze contemporary economic development plans in American cities and offer alternative ways that would restructure them to prioritize social equity.   
 

Biofilms are surface-adhered communities of bacterial cells with enhanced communication and genetic exchanges. In contrast to suspended (planktonic) bacteria, biofilm bacteria exhibit a high tolerance to anti-microbial treatments and increase the risks of chronicity and reinfection in skin wounds; this phenomenon is notable in diabetic patients. Hydrogels are three-dimensional networks of hydrophilic polymers, which provide methods of biofilm treatment and prevention that may be applicable to such chronic wound treatments. The addition of hyaluronic acid (HA) to hydrogels provides further wound healing efficacy, as HA is a primary component of human connective tissues and promotes healthy cell regeneration. Through colony forming unit (CFU) and growth curve analyses, the effects of hydrogels and HA on planktonic and biofilm growth of three bacterial species commonly associated with wounds (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) were studied to determine the most efficient hydrogel formulations. Preliminary results suggest that higher concentrations of HA in low molecular weights result in reduced bacterial growth of all three species, leading to further testing of other molecular weights to determine differences in bacterial growth prevention. This research provides important groundwork for future testable strategies in the development of biofilm-targeting materials, which can aid in the treatment of chronic wound infections.
 

While teen birth rates in the United States have fallen by 75% since 1991, the roughly 150,000 adolescents who become parents annually still face life-altering challenges (CDC, 2023). Research examining adolescent parenthood remains notably imbalanced, with young mothers dominating the literature while adolescent fathers—particularly those from Latinx communities—remain largely invisible in our scholarly discourse (Recto & Lesser, 2020). Experiences of Latinx adolescent fathers are largely influenced by the relationship they have with their families, along with the expectations put onto them by their families. Additionally, the limited research on adolescent fatherhood has not given sufficient insight into their needs during their transition to parenthood (Cedeño, 2020).

Previous research has found that positive family relations have been important sources of support when an adolescent becomes a father (Recto & Lesser, 2021). Specifically, substantial research has found that parents have a crucial role in adolescent fathers’ adjustment to parenting, which could have significant implications for the father’s parenting style and their grandchild’s adjustment (Angley, 2015). As adolescent fathers take on parenting, they are faced with developmental, social, and emotional hardships that are often overlooked. Thus, it is important to understand what resources could support their overall parenting and individual success.

The goal of our study is to expand on the research regarding adolescent fatherhood by aiming to understand how Latinx adolescent fathers’ relationships with their parents changed in their transition to parenthood, as well as what their current needs are. We hypothesize that Latinx adolescent fathers will have increased positive outcomes, such as positive mental well-being and parenting practices, when receiving familial support and when their current needs are met. Due to a significant gap in research on adolescents’ transition to fatherhood, it is imperative to evaluate how their parental support and current needs are affected.  

The data utilized for this project were sourced from the Strengthening Relationships/Strengthening Families (SRSF) program. The SRSF program researches adolescent parenthood through site visits and focus groups. The bulk of the data was collected from a focus group, which consisted of six adolescent fathers, conducted during the program's summer academy. We also conducted a second focus group including one teen father, and two other focus groups that included among others two grandmothers and one grandfather of a teen father. Once the focus group was concluded, the video was processed through three rounds of transcription. Currently, we are in the middle of conducting a grounded coding protocol, beginning with Open Coding, followed by Axial Coding, and concluding with Selective Coding to analyze the data. The complete findings will be presented at the Undergraduate Research Conference in April 2025, contributing valuable insights to this understudied area of adolescent development and family dynamics. 

This research proposes a novel approach for summarizing noisy, high-dimensional tabular electronic health record (EHR) data, addressing attribute importance and predictive modeling under fixed capacity constraints on the Palantir platform for the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C) dataset. Our method aims to enhance comorbidity prediction by identifying key attributes while accounting for variations in data support across demographic groups. Two significant findings emerged from our study. First, Diabetes and Sleep Apnea comorbidities exhibit different levels of representation in the N3C EHR dataset, highlighting inconsistencies in data support that can impact predictive modeling. Second, attributes contributing to comorbidity prediction vary by gender, suggesting the need for tailored modeling approaches to ensure equitable and accurate risk assessment. To address these challenges, we propose a stacked ensemble (ST) model incorporating Hamming clustering to improve comorbidity prediction in data with varying support. Our model achieves high predictive performance, with 0.92 precision and 0.93 recall for both Diabetes and the combined outcome of Diabetes OR Sleep Apnea. These results demonstrate the model’s ability to accurately capture comorbidity patterns, even in heterogeneous datasets. Beyond predictive performance, our findings highlight critical discrepancies in data support for comorbidities in large-scale EHR databases. This study underscores the importance of addressing such inconsistencies when developing machine learning models for clinical applications. By refining predictive methodologies and accounting for demographic variations, our research contributes to more reliable, interpretable, and equitable risk assessments in precision medicine. 
 

Coral reefs are biodiverse ecosystems that support a quarter of all marine life. These reefs provide several ecosystem services for humans, supporting fisheries, attracting tourists, and protecting coastlines from erosion. The success of coral reefs is due to a symbiotic relationship with a photosynthetic algae that provides a major source of the coral’s nutritional needs. Unfortunately, coral populations have been in decline due to climate-related stressors, primarily from rising ocean temperatures that lead to the breakdown of the coral-algal symbiosis, a phenomenon known as coral bleaching. Additionally, the rise in coral disease outbreaks has further weakened this vulnerable ecosystem.[NT3]  Prior research has found that coral immunity must be suppressed for this symbiosis to occur. However, the link between coral bleaching recovery and disease is still poorly understood. To study this, we used the model organism Exaiptasia diaphana (Aiptasia), a symbiotic anemone closely related to reef-building coral. Aiptasia are capable of surviving with and without their algal symbionts, making them ideal for explaining how this symbiosis impacts the coral’s immune system. We exposed Aiptasia with and without symbionts to heat stress and sampled them at various time points during heat stress and recovery. We quantified symbiont density, immune activity, and energetic availability, then used multivariate statistics and linear modeling to assess their effects on host immunity. We found that temperature, symbiont state, and energetics were all significant predictors of coral immunity. This research provides insight into how changes in coral symbioses affect their immunity which could impact coral disease susceptibility.

 

This poster explores the intersection of modern music, technology, and ancient healing practices through contemporary artist Jhene Aiko. It investigates how sound frequencies have historically managed unfavorable conditions and how technological advancements have streamlined music production and distribution. This poster examines the healing properties of music and their historical significance. This poster will also analyze some artists in today's age who are still known for the healing properties within their music, one being Jhene Aiko, a contemporary/alternative R&B, psychedelic, and hip-hop music artist, who focuses on the small details that make her music special, one detail being Aiko’s use of Tibetan singing bowls and sound frequencies. This poster will also explore the impact of streaming services like Apple Music and Spotify on music creation and reception. This poster will include a literature review of scholarly articles, focusing on Aiko’s artistic choices through lyric analysis and contrasting her practices with the historical use of Tibetan singing bowls. This poster aims to highlight the ongoing relevance of ancient sound healing practices in contemporary music, demonstrating how artists like Aiko integrate these traditions despite technological changes; providing insight into how technology shapes music production while preserving its healing essence.

Latinos are among the populations that are least likely to attend college (Telfer & Elfe-Quest, 2022). For this reason, it is important to determine the driving factors for their academic success. Latino adolescents’ academic achievement has often been linked to both parental and cultural influences. Previous research, for example, has determined parental school involvement to be a strong predictor of academic achievement for Latino adolescents (Anthony & Ogg, 2019). Furthermore, research suggests that having a strong sense of heritage cultural identity has been linked with academic benefits for Latino adolescents (Constante et al., 2019). However, previous research, so far, has failed to look at how all these aspects intersect to guide Latino students’ academic pathway. To fill this gap, the current study investigated how parental involvement, parental cultural socialization, and adolescents’ mainstream and heritage cultural orientations relate to Latino students’ academic beliefs (i.e., grit, self-concept, and motivation), and in turn, to their expectations on their educational attainment.

An online Qualtrics panel of Latino 18-year-old adolescents (n=209, 74% females, 85% U.S. born, 57% Mexican) participated in our study and rated their experiences related to our key variables on a 5-point scale. For educational expectations, most adolescents (65%) expected to graduate from a 4-year college. The Pearson correlation analysis revealed positive correlations between parental involvement and grit (r=.15, p<.05), academic self-concept (r=.17, p<.05), and intrinsic motivation (r=.39, p<.01). The analysis also revealed positive correlations between parental cultural socialization and adolescents’ academic self-concept (r=.14, p<.05) and intrinsic motivation (r=.22, p<.01). Finally, not only was adolescents’ mainstream cultural orientation positively correlated with academic self-concept (r=.19, p<.01) and intrinsic motivation (r=.27, p<.01), but their heritage cultural orientation was also positively correlated with their intrinsic motivation (r=.21, p<.01). In turn, adolescents’ academic self-concept and intrinsic motivation were correlated with how far in school the adolescents expected to go (r=.32, p<.01; r=.21, p<.01).  

Our findings reveal that different aspects of parental and cultural influences, as well as adolescents’ bicultural orientations, are associated with their academic beliefs, and in turn, expectations of educational attainment. Therefore, encouraging parental engagement in both academics and the heritage culture and adolescents’ engagement in both American and Latino cultures may boost Latino adolescents' confidence and motivation, ultimately driving them to pursue their academic dream of obtaining college or advanced degrees.  

Catfish are the largest source of fish aquaculture in the United States. One of the main problems of catfish aquaculture is disease susceptibility caused by continuous exposure to nitrite, a common aquatic pollutant coming from their own excretion. To combat this problem, we suggest the addition of probiotics in diet which will lead to a tissue increase of the microbiome that will act as a barrier for disease. To test our probiotic, we designed an experiment where we exposed catfish to either nitrite, nitrite with probiotics, or probiotics for 30 days. After that, we took kidney and gill samples to be analyzed by histological methods to assess cell morphology. The gill and kidney organs were chosen to be analyzed due to the gill role in nitrogenous waste excretion, and the kidney role in osmoregulation which is affected by nitrite. Our analysis showed a change in the tissue morphology when fish were exposed to the treatments. Moreover,  probiotics treatment increased the microbiome lining of gills. Also, nitrite treatments alter tissue morphology by inducing hyperplasia, which is the abnormal increase in the number of cells in the tissue. It also caused hypertrophia (swelling of cells) and apoptosis (cell death). The findings of probiotics having a positive effect on cell morphology after exposure to nitrite (which will make tissues more resilient to bacterial attack) can represent a game changer for the management of fish waste in aquaculture. This is because the addition of probiotics can avoid the need of replacing water in high volume (more than 30000 L) in aquaculture farms to avoid nitrite toxicity and immune depressant effects. As a result, probiotic treatment in aquaculture will greatly reduce the cost of the continuous renewal of water by combating the effects of disease sensitivity caused by chronic nitrite exposure.

 

The LGBTQIA+ community represents a significant portion of the U.S. population, 7.6%, yet healthcare professionals often overlook their unique health disparities, including higher rates of substance abuse, mental health disorders, discrimination, and hate crimes. Nurses play a crucial role in addressing these issues through nonjudgmental care, creating safe spaces, and providing essential resources. Their support encourages individuals to seek help without fear of stigma. Nursing care is vital in reducing disparities by fostering open dialogue, early intervention, and education on healthy coping strategies. Nurses help connect individuals to critical resources, preventing the worsening of health outcomes caused by stigma and isolation.

Research shows that the LGBTQIA+ community faces disproportionately high rates of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and suicide attempts due to minority stress and mental health challenges. Members are three times more likely than the general population to experience mental health issues (NAMI, 2024). Between 20-30% of LGBTQIA+ individuals struggle with substance abuse, compared to 9% of the general population (Pottle, 2017). Transgender individuals, in particular, are at higher risk for suicide, depression, and violence. The community is also more vulnerable to food insecurity, tobacco use, and intimate partner violence. Recent U.S. executive orders have further marginalized this group, worsening these disparities.

The LGBTQIA+ community continues to face significant mental health challenges, social stigma, and healthcare disparities. Nurses, with their expertise in patient advocacy, mental health screening, and patient education, are well-positioned to address these issues. Nurses can support this population through community outreach, mental health screening, and substance abuse recovery programs. Additionally, healthcare professionals can contribute through research, data collection, and policy advocacy aimed at expanding access to care and mental health resources for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

 

With the steady rise of fast fashion and over-consumerism, our focus within this research is to explore both the stakeholder and individual perspectives of sustainability in the fashion industry. The quantitative portion aims to investigate primarily the consumer viewpoint and understand how the residents of San Marcos are interacting with second hand retailers, tailors/repairers, and drop off sites. Participants were asked to take a survey consisting of 55 measurable questions, looking into their buying/using/discarding habits, sustainability opinions, and what if any efforts they make toward conscious-consumption. Previously published researched was reviewed to create a stronger foundation for our survey questions. We are currently in the process of collecting responses, and more detailed information including results and discussions will be shared during the presentation. 

Often referred to as “The King of Pop,” Michael Jackson (1958-2009), one of the most talented and influential artists of his time, suffered a tragic end due to his overdose on prescribed medication. Born the same year, Prince (1958-2016) suffered a similar death much like Michael Jackson’s by overdosing on fentanyl, an opioid which often causes weakness, dizziness and choking. Another artist, the rapper Juice WRLD (1998-2019) died from an accidental overdose of codeine. These African American artists from the 2000s have influenced the usage of drugs among their audiences. As displayed on their own deaths, these artists have normalized the consumption and usage of drugs through their careers. By using CDC records of the drugs that were misused by these three artists, it is easy to connect the influence that is held on their audience. Research also proves that during this time there was a significant increase in deaths caused by overdoses. While idolizing these artists, one can often be encouraged to try drugs that fit into the artist lifestyle. It is important to pinpoint just how much of a drastic effect drugs can have on not only the artist's lives but also on those who they influence. The poster will provide data from the CDC records which include the years of the artist's deaths, as well as some background information on the artist's lives. I will be using the autopsy reports to give a more detailed account of what drug each artist died from. 
 

Nitrite is a ubiquitous water pollutant originating from agricultural runoff. This compound can accumulate in aquatic animals and elicit toxicological processes. However, the mechanism of active transport of nitrite is unknown. Transport proteins, such as solute carrier proteins (SLCs), assist in maintaining the cell’s internal composition by facilitating the translocation of biomolecules across the membrane. For the last three decades, it has been suggested that the transporter for nitrite is a member of the SLC family (specifically SLC26.3A). Nonetheless, there is no functional data that supports this hypothesis. This study aims to characterize the extent of SLC transporters in the role of nitrite transport. For that, we performed heterologous expression of several SLC transporter candidates via injection of RNA into Xenopus laevis oocytes. After that, we exposed the oocytes to nitrate and nitrite and quantified its transport utilizing the Griess colorimetric reaction linked to enzymatic nitrate reduction. Our preliminary data showed specific transport of nitrite by SLC26.3A but not nitrate. This transport was also dependent on the external concentration of chloride. Advances in nitrite transport research can provide insight into the essential physiological function of membrane transport, which has broad impacts on cancer research, cardiovascular health, and digestive diseases.
 

Youth mental health has become a pressing social concern, elevated to an even more urgent level with the recent COVID 19 pandemic and post-pandemic, social injustice, and economic upheaval. These stressful events have negatively affected youth mental health and the challenges have been most dramatic for youth from marginalized communities. The Core Four Partnership is a collaboration established in February 2020 between the City of San Marcos, Hays County, San Marcos CISD, and Texas State University. The partnership is led by Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas through the establishment of Youth Services. In Fall of 2021, Youth Services joined the Texas Youth Action Network Collaborative (TYAN) where education and training were provided to learn about Positive Youth Development (PYD) Philosophy and how to incorporate PYD throughout the partnership.  The CORE 4 partnership was tasked with creating a coalition working group to gather information about the needs of local youth and young adults and to use that information to assist organizations to provide support services and better serve Hays County youth, young adults, and their families to work towards three main goals: 1) Establish a working group consisting of 5 Youth Adult Partnerships: 2) Complete a Community Needs Assessment and 3) Create goals and activities that would meet the goals set by the coalition working group. TXST SOAR  (Student Opportunities for Applied Research) became a partner pod of the CORE 4 to assist with achieving these three goals. The goals for SOAR is to accomplish two synergistic tasks 1) provide under-represented students with applied research opportunities and 2) develop undergraduate student's community engagement by partnering with the CORE 4 to conduct a Youth and Young Adult Survey that examines how social-psychological factors such as identity, food hunger and scarcity, safety, belonging and relationships impact young adults mental health and well-being. Preliminary results of 2025 Youth and Young Adults Survey comprised of 1099 respondents mental health and well-being will be presented.  
 

2025 SOAR Scholars

The impact that African American music has had has never changed, it has just evolved with its artists and listeners as time went on. This music has been able to continue to protest, empower, and be a voice for many who have been oppressed, discriminated against, hurt, etc. Before slavery, music from African tribes would be used to empower their members for battle, remind them of their strengths, and more. This phenomenon continued in slavery, as music would be used in many ways to encourage and empower African Americans through their trauma, as much as they could. From there the music continued to evolve through time. Looking through African American history, we can see several examples of music being used to express African Americans’ feelings during certain events, their desire for change, and the power that remained in them despite it all. This impactful music can still be seen today in similar but unique ways compared to its origin. This poster will be a great source of information for those who are interested in African American music and its history. They will also be able to reflect and make many connections to aspects of today’s music culture.

Theory of Mind (ToM) is the cognitive ability to understand and interpret one’s own and others’ beliefs, desires, intentions, and emotions. Interpreting mental states allows individuals to predict and explain others’ behavior. The present study examines the relation between Theory of Mind and six psychological social effects (Social Identity, Health Self-Efficacy, Spiritual Locus of Control, Religiosity, Self-Compassion, and Mindfulness). The community and college student sample included 483 adults ranging in age from 16-77 years; most (89.1%) ranged from 16-25 years. The mean age was 21.91 years. Participants completed an online survey that included self-reported demographic information, and the six social factors: Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire – 15 (FFMQ-15), Self-Compassion Scale – Short Form (SCS-SF), Spirituality/Religiosity (SpR), Spiritual Health Locus of Control (SHLOC), Health Self-Efficacy, and Social Identity. We expect findings to reveal significant relationships between ToM and the six psychosocial factors. Specifically, higher ToM scores may be associated with greater self-compassion and mindfulness, which in turn could mediate the relationship between ToM and health self-efficacy. These findings could contribute to a deeper understanding of how cognitive and social factors interact to shape an individuals’ well-being and decision-making processes

A Sense of belonging—the feeling of deep connection with others in a group—is vital to one’s emotional well-being, impacting the ability to enjoy day-to-day activities. Past research has shown that a lack of sense of belonging is associated with such negative mental health outcomes as anxiety and depression among college students. The present study explores the importance of sense of belonging in relation to anxiety and depression levels among first-time-full-time freshman-level college students. Based on prior research, it was hypothesized that decreased feelings of belongingness in the college environment would be associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression.

Method: Participants included 74 freshmen enrolled in Texas State University who completed online surveys assessing sense of belonging, anxiety, and depression. Items on the surveys measured aspects of several constructs including academic anxiety, perceived social support, college belongingness, student belongingness, pedagogical belongingness, and inventories on depression, anxiety, and stress. Correlational analyses were conducted to assess relations among these measures. The results of this study showed no significant correlation between overall depression/anxiety and sense of belonging; however, certain anxiety items correlated with students’ general sense of belonging. For example, disagreeing with the phrase, “I feel that I belong at TXST” related to “becoming easily annoyed or irritable” and “feeling afraid something awful might happen”, which connects with anxiety levels. Thus, students who felt lower amounts of belonging might find being around others more difficult and/or experience greater amounts of generalized anxiety. These results are preliminary. Further analyses are needed to confirm these findings and to fully interpret relations among irritability, sense of belonging, catastrophic thinking, and sense of belonging. Moreover, although results revealed that sense of belonging is not strongly correlated with anxiety and depression as a whole, future research using a greater sample size is needed.

This research is important because it can positively impact our understanding of relations among college students’ sense of belonging, well-being, and potentially lead to improvement in academic achievement, particularly for underrepresented groups of students who experience imposter syndrome. Furthermore, the present study aims to provide further knowledge about the facets of depression and anxiety most strongly correlate with sense of belonging, thus providing specific insight into how to help students who struggle with feelings of isolation.

Decomposition of organic matter (OM) is a critical ecosystem function. Inputs of terrestrial OM (i.e., leaf litter) deposited in rivers are fragmented and decomposed by benthic macroinvertebrates and microbial communities. OM decomposition is partially controlled by water temperature, in that temperature directly affects consumer metabolism rates and indirectly affects decomposition rates through seasonal variation in the phenology and community biomass in rivers. Understanding how water temperature directly and indirectly affects terrigenous OM decomposition will provide insight into the relative importance of abiotic (i.e., water temperature and flow regimes) versus biotic (community composition and structure) parameters and potentially elucidate how this ecosystem function will respond to future climate changes. Using a stream biome and hydrological gradient across the Guadalupe River basin (central Texas), I utilized data from 11 sites to examine seasonal patterns of leaf litter decomposition and benthic invertebrate composition communities on leaf litter and assessed the relative importance of abiotic and biotic parameters in determining OM decomposition rates. Sites were in the Guadalupe, Comal, San Marcos and Blanco rivers, as well as Plum Creek. Sites represented a range of seasonal temperature and flow variability, water chemistry, and surrounding terrestrial biomes. Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) leaf litter packs were seasonally deployed at each site for ~30 days and were composed of replicate leaf packs in large aperture mesh (1-cm aperture) and fine mesh (1-mm aperture); the different mesh sizes allowed me to assess decomposition due to benthic invertebrates and microbes (1-cm mesh) versus mostly microbes (1-mm). I estimated mass loss of leaf packs and preserved and identified the macroinvertebrates found on packs. In addition, I collected continuous water temperature data during leaf pack deployment using HOBO loggers. Hydrology data were obtained from nearby US Geological Survey gauging sites. Overall, I found that OM decomposition rate was greater with increasing water temperature and that macroinvertebrate community composition varied among sites and across seasons. My study highlights the need for regional-scale research that spans ranges of abiotic conditions and biological composition to understand how ecosystem functions may respond to future climate change and alteration of hydrological regimes. 
 

Most modern music about drug use, known as "addict rap," showcases artists’ relationships with substance abuse while promoting this behavior to unsuspecting audience members. Emerging in the 1970s to combat prevalent drug use for youth safety, hip-hop dramatically changed in the 2000s, with drug advocacy skyrocketing to 77%. Lyrics often portray drug use as a path to power, masculinity, and sexual appeal. This trend fosters negative stereotypes, including 1) harsher treatment of Black Americans for drug crimes and 2) the opioid epidemic claiming young lives. Jermaine “J. Cole” L. Cole, a Black hip-hop artist, released K.O.D. to highlight substance abuse's damage, the destructive cycle of addiction, and the truth behind how rappers use drugs to escape trauma. Despite frequent rumors about artists using drugs reaching the media, little is known about their bodily effects. For unwary listeners, substances like “popping a Percocet” may seem harmless for the sake of gaining social status. This poster will discuss five drugs: heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, Adderall, and Xanax, by examining two artists linked to each and analyzing their substance abuse in their lyrics. The focus will shift to drug effects, from occasional use to long-term dependence. The primary aim is to examine these drugs' chemical effects and their harmful impact, while a secondary goal is to discourage listeners from trying them and prevent loss of life linked to music. This research seeks to answer: "What effects do the drugs favored by musical artists promote in their work have on the human body?”
 

Sex steroids are important biological molecules that control animal body function, like reproduction, stress, and growth. Thus, determining steroid concentration can provide insight into disease mechanisms, the development of therapeutic approaches, or the impact of pollutants and endocrine disruptors. ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is an immune-based quantification technique for analyzing and quantifying substances like steroids. This method consists of four steps initiated by coating with the antigen being immobilized on a solid surface, followed by blocking any nonspecific binding sites, then detection of the specific antibody linked to the enzyme, which reacts to with a substrate that produces a color change, which is lastly read for its intensity and compared to known values. The ELISA method is utilized for its high sensitivity, specificity, and ability to analyze multiple samples simultaneously. However, we have found some variation in the accuracy and precision of collected data utilizing the ELISA method in our analysis. This could be because the sample collection system (glass tubes, plastic tubes, plastic bottles, etc.) can bind steroids specifically to the walls of the containers. Thus, steroid research can reveal inconclusive data of extreme variation from the concentration of the original water sample, depending on the container used. To check our hypothesis, we set up a solution of a mix of steroids (100 pg/ml of each steroid), distributed it in fourteen containers for a month, and then analyzed steroid content with ELISA. We found an unexpectedly high variation in concentration among all the steroids analyzed (testosterone, estradiol, progesterone, and cortisol). The variance in data collected can be attributed to the unspecific binding of steroids to specific containers. Other factors affecting variability can be human error in measuring steroids in small quantities, length of incubation period, dilution factor, and storage size. Our results will help optimize steroid analysis research and diminish the often variable and contradictory data in endocrine research. 
 

Within agricultural mechanics courses, a wide variety of skills and concepts are covered to ensure a well-rounded education on various workplace skills.  Within agricultural mechanics, electricity is a key component that many secondary institutions lack due to a perceived absence of tools and equipment. Adequate tools and equipment are vital when ensuring an accurate and thorough curriculum within the entire education system. A pre and post-test were given at the beginning and end of the workshop, asking agricultural mechanics teachers about the tools that their institutions had available to teach electricity. The purpose of this study was to identify teacher-perceived adequacy of tools and equipment available to teach electricity. According to the pre-test, many agricultural education teachers stated they were ill-equipped, however, after the workshop, with no time to purchase tools, the teachers stated they unknowingly had adequate tools and equipment available. Agricultural educators should ensure proper tools and knowledge of available tools to meet curriculum standards. We recommend ensuring an adequate class set of tools as well as attending workshops or lessons on the proper use of tools. 
 

Dorymyrmex smithi is a native ant in the Southeast US whose colonies contain multiple nests. Previous behavioral assays with D. smithi indicated very low levels of aggression between ants from different colony sites, which is very rare in ants. In these assays, ants performed a “head-to-head-antennation” behavior, in which ants quickly antennate each other's head while in front of one another. Given that ants use their antennae to determine who’s their nestmate, we tested whether ants perform this behavior more when encountering ants from different sites rather than from their own site. We also tested the relatedness of ants between and within sites. We scored behavioral assays to classify this head-to-head-antennation to determine proportional differences from ants between and within nests. We conducted PCR and gel electrophoresis to analyze microsatellite markers to determine the relationships between ants. Antennation occurs much more frequently, and for longer time periods, in ants from different sites. We expect the PCRs to show that ants from different sites are less related than those from the same site. These results indicate that head-to-head antennation may be a way to determine colony membership, and the PCR results may confirm that this behavior is due to colony status.
 

The LGBTQIA+ community faces significant mental health disparities, including having some of the highest rates of mental health issues, discrimination, violence, substance use and suicidal ideation. Nurses play a pivotal role in addressing these issues by providing inclusive education, advocating for non-judgmental care, and promoting open, respectful communication. Nurses can foster trust, reduce stigma, and help individuals in crisis feel comfortable seeking care. By improving healthcare professionals’ knowledge of LGBTQIA+ needs, such as using correct pronouns and creating gender-affirming supportive environments, nurses can start to address these mental health disparities.

Access to nursing care is essential in mitigating the mental health challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Without access to inclusive care, individuals may experience mistrust, discrimination, and avoidance of seeking support, which further exacerbates health disparities for this population. This is particularly relevant in Williamson County, where data on the LGBTQIA+ community is not collected, making it challenging to tailor healthcare services. Nationally, the LGBTQIA+ population is at higher risk for mental health problems. According to University Health, 69% of LGBTQ+ youth reported feeling persistently sad and hopeless, compared to 35% of heterosexual youth (University Health Institute for Public Health, n.d.). Local data gaps hinder effective care, and this project draws on data from Travis County to provide insight into Williamson.

The LGBTQIA+ community faces significant mental health challenges, exacerbated by data gaps, limited access to care, and harmful policies like SB14 which denies gender affirming care to minors.  Nurses can address these issues by offering culturally competent, non-judgmental care, advocating for inclusive health education, and fostering an environment of respect. However, closing these gaps requires better data collection, policy changes, and continued efforts to create a more inclusive healthcare system. Nurses are uniquely positioned to make a meaningful impact on mental health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

 

Beliefs play a significant role in identity formation and well-being. One factor that influences how adolescents see themselves is whether they believe their thoughts and feelings accurately reflect the truth about who they are, a view known as lay theories of thoughts and feelings. Additionally, individuals adopt mindsets (i.e., beliefs about the malleability of personality), those with a growth mindset believe that personality can change through effort, while those with a fixed mindset view it as unchangeable. Research has shown that growth mindset improves mental health, however, its link to lay theories of thoughts and emotions, along with their combined broader effects on mental health, remains unclear. Examining this relationship is essential as a fixed mindset, which makes people prone to self-blame, coupled with the belief that negative thoughts and emotions are true, may make adolescents particularly vulnerable to internalizing symptoms. To enhance our understanding of this issue, the current study analyzed data from the Texas Longitudinal Study (TLS), which included 612 ninth-grade high school students. We examined the relationship between lay theories of thoughts and feelings, self-esteem, social anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Preliminary results suggest that those who see their personality as unchangeable are more likely to believe that their thoughts and emotions define their identity (r = .07). Furthermore, lay theories of thoughts and feelings were also associated with higher social anxiety (r = .36), greater depressive symptoms (r = .29), and lower self-esteem (r = -.19). Given the effectiveness of growth mindset interventions in reducing internalizing symptoms, incorporating lay theories of thoughts and feelings into these interventions may help improve adolescent resilience, adaptability, and well-being.

Music genres and popular music are constantly changing. This is largely due to the fact that social media and big social media figures largely impact music trends. While there has been significant research regarding the influence social media has on marketing, engagement, and public reception of viral songs (Dewan et al.,  2014), less attention has been paid to how it influences music creation, changes genres, and provides a space for artists to interact with their fans. The poster will examine how the rise in popularity of social media platforms correlates with the shift in viral music interests, as well as how the pressure to align with viral trends can influence the authenticity and artistry of musicians. The poster will provide a structured timeline as well as visualizations of statistical data.
 

Alternative music, despite its deep-rooted connections to African American musical traditions, has long been perceived as a predominantly white space. This poster examines how Black artists have historically contributed to the genre, how the indie scene became largely white, and how contemporary Black artists reclaim their place within it.
 

Artists like Blood Orange, Solange, and Doechii have challenged genre boundaries by blending soul, funk, blues, and hip-hop elements into alternative music. Their contributions push against the notion that indie music belongs to a particular racial or cultural group, fostering a more inclusive space for diverse voices. Additionally, the work of pioneers such as Jimi Hendrix and Little Richard set the foundation for this creative evolution. Their influence paved the way for modern Black alternative artists who continue to redefine the mainstream.

By analyzing the historical trajectory of alternative music and the evolving presence of Black artists within the genre, this research highlights the ongoing struggle for representation and the cultural shifts necessary to foster inclusivity. Through their artistry, these musicians are reshaping indie music, proving that Black identity and alternative expression are not mutually exclusive but rather deeply intertwined.

 

Hip-hop has historically served as an artistic and cultural expression of African American identity, addressing themes like inequality, resilience, and empowerment. Eminem, one of the most prominent white rappers, has often grappled with his identity and authenticity in the genre deeply rooted in Black culture. Eminem and Elvis Presley are often criticized for “stealing” or “whitewashing” black music, but this is a very shallow way of viewing their identities. This poster explores race and what defines it, and how Eminem particularly addresses and “negotiates” his race with his audience in particular songs like “Without me” (2002) and “White America” (2002). This poster will answer questions like: how does Eminem address race and identity in his lyrics? What role has race played in the perception and criticism of Eminem’s work? How does Eminem’s success reflect larger dynamics of cultural appropriation and appreciation in hip-hop?
 

The tendency to feel like a fraud despite evidence of success is the basis for imposterism, a psychological experience where individuals doubt their competence and achievements. Through a series of in-depth interviews, this investigation examines the experiences of racially minoritized STEM students at Texas State University and uncovers themes behind the onset and continuation of imposterism. With the focus on minoritized students with at least two years of higher education who self identified their fields as competitive, we explored how imposterism is influenced by both individual experiences and systemic factors. Our preliminary analysis has identified themes in participants’ experiences, including isolation, feelings of helplessness, and pressures from societal, familial, and personal expectations. By understanding the lived experiences of minoritized students, this study aims to inform efforts that foster a more inclusive and supportive environment—ultimately helping to alleviate imposterism and strengthen students’ confidence and belonging in STEM.
 

Texas State University has had a long-running reputation of being referred to as a “party school”, a school students attend to prioritize drinking alcohol and doing drugs over academic studies. This study investigated how much students are drinking and using drugs as well as if the perceived “party school reputation” influences how much students utilize the consumption of alcohol and drugs on campus. The data was collected from XX undergraduate students via a survey they could take as extra credit for their class. This survey included several questions not limited to drinking, drug use, mental health, and coping styles. This survey also featured custom questions asking if the perceived “party school” reputation influences students’ decisions to attend classes at the university. Preliminary analyses run in SPSS revealed that most students have decreased or have not changed their alcohol intake while increasing their drug intake. The most common drugs seen are nicotine products, such as tobacco and vapes, cannabis, and, to a lesser extent, stimulants and psychedelics. These analyses also found that the perceived “party school” reputation had no significant effect on students' decisions to attend the university. It can be implied that factors outside of the university’s reputation are more responsible for increased drinking and drug use. More analyses with a larger sample size will need to be done in order to come to a better conclusion.
 

Maternal methyl-donor nutrient (MDN) supplementation has been proven to affect gene expression of offspring via methylation pathways. This study examines the effect of MDN supplementation on lipid catabolism genes, in relation to Trimethylamine-N-Oxide (TMAO) and Homocysteine (Hcy) biomarkers, focusing on their implications on Metabolically Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD).

After mating, female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (n = 10/group) were randomly assigned to one of four dietary groups during pregnancy and lactation: Control (CON), CON with methyl-donor nutrient (MDN) supplementation (CON-Supp), High Fat High Sucrose (HFS), or HFS with MDN supplementation (HFS-Supp). After weaning, offspring (n = 10/sex/group) were separated into two groups fed with either the CON diet or HFS diet (n=5/sex) and were sacrificed at 15 weeks of age with blood and tissue samples collected. Genetic expression was performed using qt-PCR via liver tissue sample. Choline, betaine, and TMAO levels were quantified using HPLC-MS methods while homocysteine was measured using a fluorometric assay.

Maternal HFS diets may increase serum levels of Hcy, but lower serum levels of free choline and betaine. Findings suggest HFHS diets promote TMAO via alterations in the human gut microbiome, with MDN potentially suppressing these effects via methylation of FMO3. MDN supplementation may also alter methylation of lipid catabolism genes (CPT1A, PPARα), impacting metabolic regulation of fat in the liver.
 

Across the world, there has been a steady increase of diversity rates in developed nation-states (Akkari, el. al., 2020). Given the rapidly growing diversity in today’s world, it is imperative to understand the factors that shape the future generation’s view of those different from themselves. Parental ethnic and gender socialization, as well as prior experiences of identity-based discrimination, may simultaneously influence adolescents’ attitudes towards others. For example, research on parental gender socialization has found a correlation between parental traditional gender views and their children’s negative attitudes towards those that are gay or lesbian (Bos, et. al., 2011).  However, little is known whether parental socialization and identity-based discrimination have cross-domain effects on adolescents’  other-group attitudes; that is, it is unclear whether parental socialization and perceived discrimination in one domain (e.g., promotion of mistrust towards other ethnic groups, ethnic discrimination) would relate to less inclusive attitudes in another domain (e.g., homophobic attitudes). In addition, prior research has mainly focused on Western societies and fails to consider how these processes unfold in different cultures.

Considering these gaps, the current study analyzed how parental ethnic and gender socialization, as well as prior experiences of identity-based discrimination (i.e., ethnic discrimination, gender-based teasing) were associated with adolescent attitudes towards others (i.e., mainstream cultural identity, homophobic attitudes) in a sample of Korean ethnic minority adolescents (N=267) recruited from a Korean autonomous prefecture of Northeast China. Their ages ranged from 12 to 18 (M=15.24; SD=1.66), and most participants were female (58.9%).  

Bivariate correlation analyses revealed that parental socialization and perceived discrimination primarily had within-domain, but not cross-domain, associations with adolescents’ other-group attitudes. First, we found that when adolescents received more parental socialization of traditional gender norms, they were less likely to feel comfortable talking to someone who is lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) or when a friend came out to them as LGB (r=-.226, p<.01). Second, if an adolescent had experienced ethnic discrimination from the majority group, they were less likely to identify with that group (r=-.150, p<.05). Tangentially, we also found that experiences of parental ethnic socialization were correlated with perceived identity-based discrimination: promotion of mistrust (1) and preparation for bias (2) were related to higher levels of not only perceived ethnic discrimination (1:r=.284, p<.01; 2: r=.234, p<.01), but also gender-based teasing (1: r=.192, p<.01) (2: r=.240, p<.01). Lastly, we found that when an adolescent received traditional gender socialization from their parents, they were more likely to identify with the mainstream cultural identity (r=.141, p<.05).

These results provide insight into how parental teachings and social experiences may shape the worldview and attitudes towards others among adolescents in the Majority world who are underrepresented in the literature. Our results also suggest that parents may socialize their adolescents in response to the adolescents’ discriminatory experiences; alternatively, it might be that parental socialization about social groups makes adolescents more sensitive in detecting discrimination. Our study brings increased awareness of the contextual influences on shaping adolescents’ prejudice towards, or tolerance of, others in their formative years.
 

Coral reefs are biodiverse ecosystems that support a quarter of all marine life. These reefs provide several benefits for humans, such as supporting fisheries, attracting tourists, and protecting coastlines from erosion. The success of coral reefs is due to a symbiotic relationship with a photosynthetic algae that provides a major source of the coral’s nutritional needs. Unfortunately, coral populations have been in decline due to climate-related stressors primarily from rising ocean temperatures that lead to the breakdown of the coral-algal symbiosis, a phenomenon known as coral bleaching. Additionally, the rise in coral disease outbreaks has further weakened this vulnerable ecosystem. Prior research has found that coral immunity must be suppressed for this symbiosis to occur. However, the link between coral bleaching recovery and disease is still poorly understood. To study this, we used the model organism Exaiptasia diaphana (Aiptasia), a symbiotic anemone closely related to reef-building coral. Aiptasia are capable of surviving with and without their algal symbionts, making them ideal for explaining how this symbiosis impacts the coral’s immune system. We exposed Aiptasia with and without symbionts to heat stress and sampled them at various time points during heat stress and recovery. We quantified symbiont density, immune activity and energetic availability, then used multivariate statistics and linear modeling to assess their effects on host immunity. We found that temperature, symbiont state, and energetics were all significant predictors of coral immunity. This research provides insight into how changes in coral symbioses affect their immunity which could impact coral disease susceptibility.
 

Record labels have been growing quickly in the past few years, especially with the discoveries of new rappers and artists. This poster will focus on popular rap and hip-hop record labels that have made their name over the 2000s and recently. These record labels include Cash Money Records, which was founded in 1991 and signed known artists such as Drake, Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, and Tyga. Another record company is Top Dawg Entertainment, who signed Kendrick Lamar. Another label to be explored and compared to these major ones is the Opium label, which was founded by rapper Playboi Carti in 2019. This research differs from previously published research in that this poster will be studying multiple artists and record labels as well as an overall process of finding talent and bringing them to the industry, integrating research by Amy Macy in the book “Record Label Marketing” (Macy 2016) on how record labels market the artists which will be used to support any claims. The research methods include observing multiple case studies on certain artists and the label they were signed to, as well as analyzing how artists grow or become discovered from a record label. The research questions that are
proposed in this study include: “How does a record label discover an artist?” as well as “How does a record label aid in making an artist successful?” This poster will also show the timeline of an artist being discovered and becoming successful. 

Restaurants frequently use disposable utensils that end up in landfills because they are not disposed of properly. For instance, 40 billion plastic utensils are thrown annually to US landfills. This research addresses this environmental and sustainability issue at some extent by investigating the best way to manufacture utensils using PLA filament and three different 3D printers available in the Industrial Engineering Additive Manufacturing (AMA) lab. Since producing high-quality PLA knives was relatively straightforward, this research focused on producing high-quality PLA spoons using statistical design of experiments. The appearance, flexure properties, and time to print are the response variables in the general factorial experiment. The experimental factors and levels include three 3D printers, four different infill densities, and two machine speed settings. The experiment manufactures the spoons using the 24 different combinations of factor levels, tested twice, to produce 48 utensils. The quality of the printed spoons is checked and ranked by multiple evaluators while the flexure is mechanically assessed. The research finds that it is feasible to print knives and spoons at high quality using additive manufacturing. The best quality utensils result from the LulzBot Taz 6 3D printer. The prints from the LulzBot also come out less brittle than those from the two MakerBot counterparts. The PLA utensils would still most likely be put into the landfill, however, PLA has a much higher degradation rate than the plastic currently in disposable utensils and in other alternative filament types, being more sustainable.
 

This project aims to analyze and understand the main factors that drive annual energy consumption across the states. By identifying the key factors in the transportation, industrial, residential, and commercial sectors such as population growth and per capita GDP, we will provide insights for state level energy consumption trends. Our focus will be on the Texas Interconnection, which sends power to millions of Texans every single day.
 

Although adolescent parenthood has been declining in recent decades, the CDC reported birth rates have doubled among minority adolescents, mainly in the Hispanic community (CDC, 2021).  Latinx adolescent fatherhood is of importance to understand, as previous research has shown how adolescent fathers’ parenting influences child adjustment (Howard et al., 2006). Furthermore, it is important to understand how cultural factors impact adolescent father parenting practices, as substantial research has found significant influences of cultural factors on parenting with Latinx adult fathers (Cruz et al., 2011; Gonzalez & Barnett, 2024). Though cultural factors seem to be salient for informing Latinx fathers’ parenting practices in general, little is known about the importance of these factors for Latinx adolescent fathers. It is critical to examine how these influences are evident in their positive and negative parenting practices.  

Parent-child tactics include positive and negative parenting practices employed by parents (Straus et al., 1998). Previous research has found higher levels of cultural values like familism, emphasizing family connectedness and support (Knight et al., 2010), have been related to Latinx fathers' parent-child tactics such as permissive parenting (Mogro-Wilson & Cifuentes, 2021).  Similarly, research has found that traditional gender roles have been negatively associated to parenting practices like involvement for Latinx fathers (Glass & Owen, 2010). However, these relations have been primarily observed in Latinx adult fathers.

The aim of this study is to observe how cultural factors, such as traditional gender roles and familism, predict adolescent fathers' parent-child tactics. We hypothesize that less traditional gender role attitudes will predict more positive parenting tactics. Similarly, we expect that higher familism will predict more positive parenting tactics. As there is a profound gap in research understanding Latinx adolescent fatherhood, it is important to understand how cultural factors may influence their parenting practices to apply this information to further programs serving adolescent parents.

Our study included Latinx adolescent fathers (N= 67, M age = 18.37; SD=2.72; 100% Latinx; 62.7% U.S-born) from Central Texas who completed online surveys and as part of an adolescent parent intervention program. We measured parent-child tactics using the Parent-Child Conflict Tactics Scale (Straus et al., 1998). We measured familism using Knight and colleague’s (2010) the familism and respect subscales from The Mexican American Cultural Values Scale. We also measured adherence to traditional gender roles by fathers using the 9-item What is a Father? scale (Palkovitz, 1984). We will be conducting a multiple regression analysis to evaluate the association between cultural values (e.g. familism, traditional gender roles) and parent-child tactics for Latinx adolescent fathers. Results of this analysis are forthcoming and will be discussed during the poster session in April.
 

Microbial pathogens rely on metal scavenging to maintain essential metabolic functions, particularly in environments where metal availability is restricted by the host. To counteract nutritional immunity, pathogens employ high-affinity transporters or small molecules called opine metallophores to acquire essential metal ions. Examples include Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, which produce pseudopaline and staphlopine, respectively. Our lab has an interest in metal acquisition mechanisms in microbial pathogens, including Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), the fungal pathogen responsible for White-Nose Syndrome (WNS) in bats. Previous transcriptomic analysis of P. destructans at infection sites has revealed increased expression of metal-binding proteins, suggesting that it experiences metal starvation during infection of the bat host. To better understand Pd's metal scavenging strategies, we examined its transcriptome under metal-restrictive conditions and identified a homologous gene cluster similar to the systems found in P. aeruginosa and S. aureus, which we have named the Cu-responsive cluster (CRC). We hypothesize that the CRC encodes two key enzymes, S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) Transferase (PdSAM) and Opine Dehydrogenase (PdOpDH), which are involved in the biosynthesis of a unknown fungal-derived opine metallophore facilitating copper acquisition.This study focuses on expressing, purifying, and characterizing PdSAM and PdOpDH using the E. coli BL21 (DE3) expression system. In the future, we hope to identify their biochemical substrates through co-substrate screening and characterize their enzyme kinetics (Km and Kcat) to understand substrate affinity and turnover rates. The long term goal is to understand how the CRC cluster is involved in metal acquisition.
 

The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of an electricity workshop on School-Based Agricultural Education (SBAE) teachers’ ability to teach electricity. It is crucial that SBAE teachers possess self-efficacy related to the skills they are responsible for teaching. SBAE teachers can acquire these skills by attending professional development workshops for topics they have little training on like electricity constructs. This study was guided using Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory. A workshop was hosted specifically for teachers with the least amount of agricultural mechanics training who will be teaching the most agricultural mechanics classes in the upcoming school year. As part of a larger study, this study was focused on the day and a half electrical component of the workshop. Data was collected using pre and post paper-based surveys on the SBAE teachers’ change in perception of ability to teach four electrical constructs. The results showed that each construct had a positive change. Electrical switches and receptacles had the greatest change from pre- to post- workshop. Electrical testing had the lowest pre- and post-workshop score while still seeing a positive change. Electrical safety had the lowest growth indicating the need to identify ways to improve SBAE teachers’ ability to teach safety is important for future planning As professionals in our field, we can continue to support these teachers in building their confidence and ability to teach electrical skills by developing more professional development workshops. Research should be conducted to identify what additional training is needed for participants to rank themselves as possessing excellent ability to teach each of the electrical constructs. Supplementary research should be conducted after the teachers have had the ability to teach their students electricity because their perceived self-efficacy could be altered after teaching their students. 
 

Gentrification can be described as the process in which residents of a community are displaced from their neighborhoods by those with a higher socioeconomic status (SES) (Glass, 1964). The domination of a given area by a student population and its related social, economic, and cultural effects can be referred to as studentification. Due to the large student population present in San Marcos, Texas, both modes of neighborhood change were taken into consideration before the analysis. For the purposes of this study, neighborhood change in the city of San Marcos was analyzed using Drexel University’s United Health Collaborative (UHC) Gentrification Measure and Jackelyn Hwang’s Gentrification Index in order to analyze both statistical and physical indicators of gentrification. 4 total census tracts in San Marcos were categorized as “Intensely Gentrified” after utilizing the UHC Gentrification Measure, and physical upgrades measured by Hwang’s Gentrification Index were more prevalent in the gentrified tract despite the physical degradation that had taken place in both tracts. Although gentrification was documented through the UHC Gentrification Measure, physical deterioration in conjunction with an inconsistent increase in median income in gentrified tracts indicates the potential presence of studentification.
 

Tissue chips are advanced in vitro platforms designed to replicate organ-level functionality, providing alternatives to animal models for biomedical research. However, challenges remain in developing affordable, high-quality tissue chips to study unique model organisms such as Xiphophorus fish. These fish exhibit natural cancer resilience, offering a valuable system for studying disease etiology and potential treatments. A tissue chip designed for Xiphophorus tissues can overcome the limitations of traditional animal models, including cost, ethical issues, and technical challenges. In this project we will design and manufacture a cost-effective tissue chip system to support Xiphophorus Cell and tissue culture for translational, comparative biomedical research.
 

The COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread school closures, forcing a rapid shift to remote and hybrid learning models that significantly disrupted student education. While early research highlighted substantial declines in academic performance, particularly among vulnerable student populations, the long-term trajectory of learning recovery remains an open question. This study examines the extent to which student test scores have rebounded between 2019 and 2024, using data from the Stanford Education Data Archive (SEDA), Burbio, Return to Learn, and federal COVID relief spending records.

This analysis explores how different reopening strategies, such as the timing of in-person instruction, the availability of remote learning options, and levels of teacher support, correlate with student achievement recovery. Prior studies suggest that districts that reopened earlier saw greater academic improvements, while those that prolonged remote learning experienced deeper and more persistent learning losses. Additionally, the pandemic has exacerbated educational inequalities, disproportionately affecting students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

This study employs regression analysis to identify key predictors of learning recovery, shedding light on the policies and interventions that have been most effective in closing achievement gaps. By understanding the factors that drive post-pandemic educational outcomes, this research aims to inform future policy decisions and crisis-response strategies to mitigate the long-term effects of learning disruptions.

A sense of belonging plays a crucial role in students’ academic and social experiences, yet students with disabilities often struggle to feel included in school environments. While previous research has explored the positive effects of a growth mindset—the belief in the malleability of ability through effort—on academic performance, its influence on social belonging remains less understood, particularly for students with disabilities. To address this gap, the present study examined the relationship between mindsets and perceived belonging among students with disabilities, using the nationally representative data set from the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009 (HSLS:2009), which includes 3,146 students with reported disabilities. The preliminary results indicate a weak negative relationship between a fixed mindset and a sense of belonging, suggesting that students with a more fixed mindset may experience greater uncertainty in their sense of belonging. These preliminary findings suggest a potential link between mindset and a sense of belonging, highlighting the importance of fostering a growth mindset in students with disabilities.

The recent political climate in America is, to put it lightly, almost nightmarish. With the election of former President Trump and his recent executive orders aiming to eliminate DEI, inflation at an all-time high, and a spirit of individualism masking selfishness and greed, it seems now more than ever that Americans need a wake up call, and Kendrick Lamar was happy to deliver. Kendrick Lamar is one of the most talented rappers of all time, with a Pulitzer Prize in music and 22 Grammys and numerous other awards, and has always centered politics and culture in his music. He has never hid how being a black man raised in Compton California has affected him and his art, with Compton being the birthplace of 90’s West Coast Rap and some of the most influential rappers in Kendrick's life, such as Dr. Dre and Tupac, as well as having one of the highest violent crime rates and gang divisions in America. The choice for him to perform at the Super Bowl, with the President in attendance for the first time in history, while minorities in low-income areas like the one Kendrick grew up in are facing more and more economic troubles and social discrimination, is not a mistake. Kendrick Lamar's Superbowl Performance was a massive political statement to comment on the condition of America, the death of the American dream, and the flaws of capitalism through his casting or actors and dancers, his set and costuming, as well as his setlist and choreography all contribute to this message, a fundamental critique of America directed to the president.

This poster will provide bullet points on the history of Super Bowl performances, a brief analysis of Kendrick Lamar and his chosen setlist, and an explanation of certain symbols used and how they serve to critique America's current political climate.

Interpretations of everyday pieces of art can disclose different perspectives and meanings. The album, “Unreal, Unearth” by Andrew Byrne Hozier that was written and inspired by Dante’s Inferno (Alighieri) has themes of complicated human emotions and even discusses the 9 layers of hell. However, within the poster created, there will be a unique interpretation of pulling together stories of mythology to the experiences of African Americans in the United States. The analysis of selected songs uncovers a unique symbolism with impactful moments in black history, as well as everyday life. The hell that is seemingly explained throughout the album will be seen as the racism in America instead. The racism discussed and visualized in the poster will range from the horrific events of police brutality to the internalized racism black individuals face during daily mundane tasks. The poster will provide a creative and analytical perspective of the album analysis. The information will be composed, and then summarized to present the findings.
 

Nitrite is a nitrogenous waste common to agricultural fish that causes toxic episodes at high concentrations and renders individuals more sensitive to disease. Catfish is one of the most cultivated fish in the U.S. and its cultured at high densities, which cause them to be commonly affected by chronic exposure to nitrite. Long term exposures to nitrite damages tissues and render catfish sensitive to disease. Since lowering water nitrite concentrations in aquaculture systems by water renewal represents a high cost for the farmer, there is a need to design prophylactic treatments against nitrite toxins. Thus, we hypothesize that probiotic treatment will protect external nitrite-damage tissues from bacterial infection.

To test our hypothesis we exposed catfish to nitrite (0.2 mM), probiotics or nitrite with probiotics for 30 days. After that, we took samples of head kidney and spleen and processed for histological analysis. Our chronic nitrite treatments induced in the spleen an increase in red blood cell production, hyperplasia(an increased number of cells), and apoptosis(programmed cell death to irregular modifications). Moreover, the head kidney showed a loss of cytoplasm and vacuolar degeneration of the white blood cells production. In contrast, probiotic treatments showed less organ damage. The spleen tissue of fish treated with probiotic showed an increase of red blood cells and less apoptosis. While in the head kidney showed an increase of white blood cell count and less organ damage. Compared to the tissue samples that were chronically exposed to nitrite concentrations that showed decreased levels of cell  production between the tissue samples.

The continuous study of probiotic treatments may help reduce the agricultural wastewater by minimizing the need to replenish water due to an excess nitrite buildup. This is because the usage of probiotics gives an additional protection layer in the external tissues, preventing the entrance of toxic nitrite and pathogens.

 

Catfish represent the largest aquaculture farmed fish in the United States, leading the aquatic food industry. However, these species are affected by chronic exposure to nitrite, a harmful chemical that comes from their own nitrogenous waste. Fish exposed for long periods of low nitrite concentrations typically do not show symptoms of nitrite toxicity until it is too late. We hypothesize that the chronic effects of nitrite exposure are linked to impairment in the catfish microbiome, leading to a weaker immune system response, which allows for more bacteria to enter the fish. Introducing catfish to probiotics can reduce the susceptibility of infection by rebuilding the microbiome to be stronger against nitrite induce infections. 

To test our probiotic hypothesis, we designed a series of experiments including probiotic treatment, nitrite, probiotic nitrite treatment combined, and a control of water. This study primarily focuses on the effects of treatments on fish guts and liver. The gut holds a complex microbiome that can be dramatically affected by nitrite. Also, the detoxifying role of the liver can be diminished by nitrite due to their detrimental effect in hepatic (liver) enzymes. After conducting the four experiments, the results showed that nitrite is correlated to a reduction in the microbiome layer, which damaged intestinal cells and weakened the stomach barrier, while the liver had toxic induced apoptosis, or cell death. 
 

This study is essential to understanding how chronic exposure to nitrite can affect the most farmed aquaculture fish. Introducing probiotics to catfish farms can positively influence the health and immune response of these animals, and their capacity to survive toxins and pathogens. Thus, it will reduce the need for expensive disease treatments and lower the accumulation of both drugs and nitrogenous waste in water. 

 

Groundwater is a critical resource for many economic sectors, supporting oil and gas extraction, electricity generation, agricultural irrigation, and municipal water supplies. Texas law currently follows the Rule of Capture, which allows unrestricted groundwater extraction, potentially leading to overuse and depletion. This study examines the impact of this policy by analyzing trends in well depth over time as a proxy for groundwater levels. Using Submitted Driller Reports (SDRs) from the Texas Water Development Board, this research explores how well depth trends vary across economic sectors and regulatory bodies.

The first objective is to determine whether the Rule of Capture incentivizes excessive extraction by tracking increases in well depth over time. The second objective compares well depth trends in areas regulated by local Groundwater Conservation Districts (GCDs) versus non-GCD areas to evaluate their effectiveness. The third objective examines drilling depths across key economic sectors, identifying which industries contribute most to excessive groundwater extraction.

Through statistical analysis, this study quantifies sector-specific groundwater extraction trends to provide valuable insights into sustainable groundwater management practices. The findings can inform policymakers on the effectiveness of GCDs and the necessity of reforming groundwater policies to prevent over-extraction, ensuring long-term water security for Texas.
 

This poster will explore the intersection of music and psychology, with a specific focus on how hip-hop and R&B serve as powerful stimuli for the brain. These genres not only shape emotional experiences but also have a unique capacity to influence the listener’s mental state, providing both therapeutic and cognitive benefits. By examining the neuroscience behind music, we can better understand how rhythms, melodies, and lyrics in hip-hop and R&B engage the emotional and cognitive centers of the brain, helping listeners process complex feelings, trauma, and societal issues. Historically, many hip-hop artists have used their music as a form of emotional expression, openly addressing personal traumas, struggles with mental illness, and the challenges of navigating life in marginalized communities. This poster will also cite lyrics and interviews from Tupac’s discography . Artists like Tupac Shakur, known for his reflections on his own mental health and his commentary on common struggles in the black community, which has helped shift the narrative surrounding mental illness. Tupac’s candid discussions of grief, depression, and the impact of systemic violence have made him a symbol for de-stigmatization and mental health advocacy in hip-hop.

Mate value discrepancies (MVDs) in monogamous relationships predict greater conflict and jealousy because lower-value partners are seen as more easily replaceable. This study examines whether MVDs likewise elicit conflict and jealousy in consensually non-monogamous (CNM; e.g., open or polyamorous) relationships.  Participants in CNM (n = 200) and monogamous (n= 312) relationships reported their and up to two partners’ mate value, conflict, jealousy, and intrasexual competitiveness. Participants who rated their mate value (MV) higher than their partner’s reported more conflict.  People with more CNM experience reported more positive reactions to a partner’s extra-pair interactions. Participants who reported more disclosure of their extra-pair attractions to a partner, more comfort communicating about jealousy, more compersion, and more shared extra-pair sexual experiences with a partner reported less conflict and jealousy. Meanwhile, those endorsing more partner hierarchy reported more conflict and jealousy. Intrasexual competitiveness predicted less: disclosure of attraction, comfort communicating jealousy, willingness to invest in partners’ children, compersion, sexual health maintenance, and more partner hierarchy. We conclude that MVDs are similarly related to conflict in monogamous and CNM relationships, but intrasexual competitiveness, experience with CNM, and engagement in CNM relationship maintenance practices, may attenuate or exacerbate jealousy and conflict.
 

Although there are many studies done on music therapy, the use of religious music in managing stress of African Americans has not been given much attention. Previous research has specifically focused on older or younger African Americans (Hamilton 2012/2017), often referencing specific life scenarios. This poster will analyze the findings of previous research done on religious music in stress management of African Americans, to illustrate the impact the music has on stress levels. The poster will explore historical background that is relevant to the topic, then provide an analysis of traditional/modern religious song lyrics to compare similarities/differences. Religious music can be traced back to African traditions and the spirituals that were developed/passed down through generations of enslaved Africans. The analysis will explore how lyrics, melodies, and rhythms resonate with the cultural and spiritual values of African Americans. This poster will provide some historical background in bullet points as well as summaries and visualizations of the analytical findings.
 

Suicidal ambivalence is a phenomenon where individuals simultaneously experience a wish to die (WTD) and a wish to live (WTL). Past research has shown complex associations between WTL and WTD in predicting suicidal thoughts and behaviors. However, most studies have examined WTL/WTD in relation to suicidal desire or a history of attempts; assessing suicidal intent may reflect an improved behavioral marker for understanding future suicide risk. This study aims to (1) examine the interaction between WTL and WTD predicts suicidal intent and (2) explore differences in the strength of this relationship regarding suicidal intent in the next week vs. next month vs. next year.

A sample of 767 adults (Mage=23.75, 53.1% cisgender women, 49.9% White) with current suicidal ideation and/or a lifetime suicide attempt completed self-report measures.

The interaction between WTL and WTD in predicting suicidal intent was significant for the next week (B=.88, SE=.19, p <.001), month (B=.61, SE=.19, p = .001), and year (B=.50, SE=.21, p=.016). Specifically, the relation between low WTL and suicidal intent was strongest at high WTD for all three time-points (Bs=1.75, 1.66, 1.77, SEs=.17 to .19, ps < .001), with no temporal differences. Conclusion: Overall, the WTL and WTD interaction predicts suicidal intent across all time-points, but the interaction effect slightly diminishes as the time span extends, indicating that suicidal intent is more prognostic closer to the time of reporting. This suggests that for clinical assessments, evaluating WTL and WTD may provide valuable insights into imminent risk, enhancing timely interventions.

Environmental racism is often overlooked in discussions of major historical events, despite its profound impact on the African American population. The lack of published research on the relationship between environmental racism and African American culture neglects a significant part of history: the development of African American music. From its origins in Africa to its evolution in America, music has been a defining element of African American culture. Throughout history, from the Great Migration (1910) to the Flint Water Crisis (2014), African Americans have faced numerous injustices. In response, music has been utilized as both a form of protest and powerful expression of African American resilience and emotions. The failure to integrate African American music with environmental racism disregards their historical connection and the broader cultural developments they have influenced. This poster will analyze examples of environmental injustice throughout major historical and contemporary events, exploring its profound effects on the development of African American music.

Foundational STEM courses can be challenging for students, and many students do not successfully complete them. Additionally, faculty are often teaching a large number of students, making the instructor-to-student ratio heavily skewed. The Learning Assistant (LA) model presents a solution to these challenges. In this model, LAs learn about pedagogy (“pedagogy”), prepare weekly with faculty (“prep”), and assist students in class (“practice”). At TXST, over 10% of undergraduates enroll in LA-supported biology, chemistry, and physics courses each semester. We set out to answer the research question: “What outcomes do biology Learning Assistants perceive from their experiences in the LA Program?” We interviewed 15 experienced biology LAs, and analyzed the transcripts using the qualitative analysis software MAXQDA. Then created a code book that highlighted LAs’ common responses related to our research question. Two members of our team then independently “coded” the transcripts to categorize LAs’ perceptions about program outcomes and discussed our “coding” to reach consensus on any disagreements. We found that LAs primarily spoke about positive outcomes for themselves such as: enjoyment of their experience, an expanded social support system, increased confidence in academic/STEM, and feeling cared about as a person. Additionally, they considered how faculty gained knowledge and skills related to teaching and learning. Finally, while LAs described some positives, they focused more on student’s challenges such as: students’ lack of using available  resources, not attending help desk, and lack of asking for help. In this poster, we present our findings and consider next steps for research.
 

Mac Miller was a prominent artist known for his contributions to the rap genre. Throughout his career, he released several albums before his untimely passing on September 7, 2018, at the age of 26. This poster will focus on Mac Miller’s life, his musical legacy, and his posthumous impact, particularly through his continued support of youth charities. In addition to examining his biography, the analysis will explore selected tracks from his most recent album Balloonerism, which was released in January 2025.

The objective of this poster is to critically analyze the themes and emotional content of Mac Miller’s music, particularly the songs that may offer insight into his state of mind during the latter part of his life. By comparing the tracks from Balloonerism with events actively happening in Mac's life, this presentation will explore potential connections between his musical evolution and the circumstances surrounding his death. The focus will be on identifying patterns in his lyrics and how they reflect his personal experiences and emotional journey.  

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX) is a key enzyme that is expressed among peripheral blood mononucleocytes (PBMCs) and readily produces reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are a key part of the innate immune defense system. NOX is also activated in human diseases, including cancer and hypertension. Therefore, it is a good biological marker for such conditions.  This project aims to longitudinally measure the NOX expression in PBMCs in healthy individuals following a holistic clinical treatment. Patient PBMC aliquots were provided as fully de-identified tubes, with only the longitudinal sets identified. The goal was to create a preliminary workflow to detect NOX proteins in human PBMCs.  Preforming a BCA, relative protein amount was determined and subject to lysis for western blot analysis. Cell lysates were then analyzed by western blot for NOX protein. This methodology indicated an unsuccessful result as there were no observable sample bands. From this, we have learned a certain number of cells are required to provide protein amounts sufficient for detection via Western blot.  
 

Large-scale goat and sheep production systems are essential for global security and are normally managed under extensive conditions. Under extensive conditions, a recurring problem is poor nutrition, which can impair the immune system and reproductive success due to the lack of nutrients and energy. Poor nutrition and compromised health reduce reproductive success and place genetic pressure on survival, contributing to a steady decline in small ruminant populations. These factors led to the U.S. goat population declining by 2% in the past year. Bee pollen, a natural and nutrient-rich supplement, may improve metabolism, immune health, and reproductive success. Glucose, albumin, and total protein are critical biomarkers reflecting metabolic metabolism and overall physiological status in ruminants. Nevertheless, bee pollen's effects on goats' metabolic health indicators remain underexamined. This study investigates the effects of bee pollen supplementation on goats’ health parameters, specifically on the glucose, albumin, and total protein content. Thirty crossbred doelings (BoerxSpanish) were arranged based on live weight (LW) and were assigned to two treatments: a bee pollen group (T-BP, n=15) and a control (T-CTL, n=15). T-BP received 10g of bee pollen daily, fed individually in a milking parlor to ensure accurate dosing and intake, along with 50g of feed (12% CP; 2.96 MJ/kg), while T-CTL received feed without pollen. Treatments received a maintenance diet with limited physical activity (8.3%CP; 2.03 Kcal/kg). Blood samples were collected weekly. Samples were processed through centrifugation to isolate plasma, which was then analyzed for glucose, albumin, and total protein concentrations. SAS analysis of repeated measurements showed no significant differences in mean concentrations (mean±SEM) of glucose (T-BP:0.18±0.005 vs. T-CTL:0.19±0.004  mg/dL), albumin (T-BP:0.21±0.004 vs. T-CTL:0.22±0.09  mg/dL), and total protein (T-BP:0.05±0.001 vs. T-CTL:0.06±0.002 µg/mL) between treatments (P > 0.05). The sampling date was significantly different for glucose (P < 0.001), albumin (P < 0.05), and total protein (P < 0.05). In crossbred goats receiving a maintenance diet, daily supplementation of 10 g of bee pollen did not enhance their glucose concentration and protein metabolites. Further research is needed on the long-term effects and varying doses of bee pollen on metabolism and animal performance. 
 

Traffic crashes pose significant risks to public safety and urban mobility, particularly in rapidly growing cities like Austin, Texas. This study utilizes crash-level data from the City of Austin to identify high-risk areas where traffic accidents are most prevalent. Using data analysis, predictive modeling, and visualization techniques, crash hotspots are mapped and analyzed to uncover spatial patterns and contributing factors. Additionally, this project proposes infrastructure and policy recommendations aimed at mitigating crash frequency and severity. The findings may provide actionable insights for city planners and transportation officials to enhance road safety, reduce accidents, and create a safer driving environment for all road users. 
 

While mnemonics have long been researched in their relationship with memory and cognition (Bower, 1970; Cohen, 1987; Taylor, 2016; Wang, Thomas, 2000), the specific use of music in second language (L2) learning and consolidation has only received limited empirical discussion (Jolly, 1975; Martin, 1981). Beyond the practicality of common mnemonics, folk music places vocabulary within its cultural context (Greenway, 1960), strengthening the assimilation of the L2 learner into the culture of the language, beyond their basic vocabulary. Furthermore, one of Jolly’s (1975) primary arguments in their research stated that “-many students indicated that the songs created a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere in the classroom and livened up the pace of the lessons.” In other words, if folk songs in the classroom are shown to improve L2 learning, they will provide a fun, culturally relevant, and effective way to learn a new language. Therefore, this poster presents a pilot study aimed toward providing a replicable framework for future research on music as a pedagogical tool for language acquisition as an especially effective mnemonic device. Specifically, this study uses a within-subjects, 2x2, single-case, experimental design to compare short- and long-term consolidation of Japanese vocabulary with and without traditional Japanese folk music as a study method. In summary, the hypothesis of this poster dictates that language learners who use folk music during their studies will experience significant improvement in both the short- and long-term variables, while simultaneously offering relevant cultural exposure to the language learner in an enjoyable format. 

Critical data for optimization and productivity improvements are rendered via the implementation of time studies. However, traditional methods have become obsolete and, in many cases, don’t meet the precision needed for the requirements of modern manufacturing. The use of computer vision for time studies is a viable option as it has many advantages including the ability to capture movement in a more accurate way, the ability to process relevant information within the required time and the positioning of spatial data points at different times. In order to automate time studies machine learning is being applied in a unique way, neural networks are being used for pose estimate, action recognition, and action classification. With the help of time measurement models a generic time study model can be developed. The future looks promising for Predetermined Motion Time Studies (PMTs), specifically Maynard Operation Sequence Technique (MOST), as automation techniques evolve and become more frequent. 
 

The current study examined factors that are related to college students' mental health. Specifically, we examined whether college stress (i.e., academic, social, and financial) predicted higher levels of Latinx college students’ college depressive symptoms. Additionally, we examined whether ethnic/racial identity (i.e., exploration, resolution, affirmation) moderated the relations college stress and depressive symptoms. Our findings indicate that students who report higher levels of academic stress and social stress familism also more depressive symptoms. Additionally, ethnic/racial identity exploration moderated these relations. Future research should further explore factors that diminish and strengthen the relations between college stress and mental health. 
 

This presentation shows my memoir-in-progress, which examines the intersections of personal experience, systemic failure, and advocacy. Attending unregulated boarding schools and later working within legal and social systems, I witnessed firsthand how institutions meant to protect often fail the most vulnerable. Through personal narrative and some contextual research, my work interrogates the long-term consequences of these failures and the power of resilience in forging a new path. From rediscovering a love of learning to shifting into legal advocacy, my story underscores the necessity of systemic change and the role of personal agency in driving it. By connecting lived experience with broader structural issues, this memoir aims to offer insight into reform, accountability, and the pursuit of dignity in marginalized spaces.
 

Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) face significant barriers to employment, despite strong evidence that inclusive hiring benefits both businesses and individuals. This Workforce Is Big Enough for the Two of Us - Employment in Texas for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities examines the challenges and successes of integrating adults with IDD into the workforce, with a focus on Texas businesses. Through qualitative research involving interviews with employers and vocational rehabilitation (VR) counselors, this study explores structural, economic, and social barriers to employment. Key obstacles include employer misconceptions, transportation limitations, inadequate job training programs, and the impact of funding for support services. However, successful employment models demonstrate the positive contributions of employees with IDD, the role of supportive workplace policies, and tangible benefits for employers, such as improved morale and increased productivity. By identifying best practices and common challenges, this research seeks to inform policies and strategies that foster a more inclusive labor market, enabling more individuals with IDD to achieve meaningful and sustainable employment.

Coral reefs are necessary in maintaining marine biodiversity through providing shelter, and act as a protective barrier for coasts against storms and erosion. They also attract tourism business for local economies, supporting millions of humans. Unfortunately, corals are impacted by many diseases, including Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD)- which is a lesion-causing disease resulting in coral death on reefs across the Caribbean. Coral immunity relies primarily on a suite of recognition receptors which identify pathogens and activate pathways to eliminate that threat. These pathways are not pathogen specific, and many aspects of coralimmunity remain uncharacterized, making identification of diseases difficult to determine. The causative agent for SCTLD is unknown, and in an attempt to characterize SCTLD infections further, the Symbiommunity Lab has joined a collaborative effort led by Dr. Blake Ushijima of the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW).  Dr. Ushijima conducted a time series SCTLD transmission experiment in tanks on land, and these samples are now being analyzed using a multi-omics approach. This multi-omics approach involves several collaborators looking at microbiome, histology, gene expression, and several other components. Several coral species were used in the experiment, including Colpophyllia natans, Orbicella faveolata, and Montastraea cavernosa which will allow for a broader examination of the response to exposure to SCTLD infection. This portion of the project conducted in Texas State University’s Symbiommunity Lab examined immune function across experimental samples through a series of biochemical immune assays. Methods included the extraction of protein which is then used to examine antioxidant production, characterization of the melanin production and synthesis pathway, and bacterial killing ability. This study will provide insights into how corals mount an immune response to SCTLD exposure, and more broadly, what the mechanisms that spread and cause SCTLD may be.