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• When using the Category and/or Section filter, you will see the following prefixes. Here are their meanings:
  • GS: Graduate Student
  • MS: Medical Scholar
  • Postdoc: Postdoctoral Scholar
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Time: Morning Afternoon

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Category: MS: Basic Medical Sciences MS: Therapeutic Effectiveness/Efficiency MS: Outcomes/Quality MS: Case Reports/Small Series/Learning Innovation MS: Basic Medical Sciences and Therapeutic Effectiveness/Efficiency MS: Basic Medical Sciences and Outcomes/Quality Postdoc: Poster Presentation MS: Basic Medical Sciences and Outcomes/Quality MS: General UG: CIEL/GLD -Community Engagement and Social Advocacy UG: CIEL/GLD -Global Learning UG: CIEL/GLD -Professional Engagement: Internship/Practical/Career Experience UG: CIEL/GLD -Professional Engagement: Peer Leadership UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience UGR: Arts Humanities and Social Sciences UGR: Health Sciences UGR: Engineering and Computing UGR: Biomedical Sciences UGR: Environmental Sciences UGR: Chemistry Physics and Math UGR: Research GS: Biomedical Sciences GS: Chemistry, Physics, and Math GS: Engineering and Computing GS: Environmental Sciences GS: Health Sciences GS: Psychology and Neuroscience GS: Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts

Section: GS: Biomedical Sciences, Section A GS: Biomedical Sciences, Section B GS: Biomedical Sciences, Section O GS: Biomedical Sciences, Section P GS: Chemistry, Physics, and Math, Section C GS: Chemistry, Physics, and Math, Section D GS: Engineering and Computing, Section Q GS: Environmental Sciences, Section E GS: Environmental Sciences, Section R GS: Health Sciences, Section F GS: Health Sciences, Section G GS: Health Sciences, Section H GS: Health Sciences, Section I GS: Health Sciences, Section J GS: Health Sciences, Section K GS: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section L GS: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section M GS: Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts, Section N UGR: Arts Humanities and Social Sciences, Section A UGR: Arts Humanities and Social Sciences, Section AA UGR: Arts Humanities and Social Sciences, Section B UGR: Arts Humanities and Social Sciences, Section BB UGR: Arts Humanities and Social Sciences, Section C UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section A UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section AA UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section B UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section BB UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section C UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section CC UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section D UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section DD UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section E UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section EE UGR: Biomedical Sciences, Section F UGR: Chemistry Physics and Math, Section A UGR: Chemistry Physics and Math, Section AA UGR: Chemistry Physics and Math, Section B UGR: Chemistry Physics and Math, Section BB UGR: Chemistry Physics and Math, Section C UGR: Chemistry Physics and Math, Section CC UGR: Engineering and Computing, Section A UGR: Engineering and Computing, Section AA UGR: Engineering and Computing, Section B UGR: Engineering and Computing, Section BB UGR: Engineering and Computing, Section C UGR: Environmental Sciences, Section A UGR: Environmental Sciences, Section AA UGR: Environmental Sciences, Section B UGR: Environmental Sciences, Section BB UGR: Environmental Sciences, Section C UGR: Environmental Sciences, Section CC UGR: Environmental Sciences, Section D UGR: Environmental Sciences, Section DD UGR: Health Sciences, Section A UGR: Health Sciences, Section AA UGR: Health Sciences, Section B UGR: Health Sciences, Section BB UGR: Health Sciences, Section C UGR: Health Sciences, Section CC UGR: Health Sciences, Section D UGR: Health Sciences, Section DD UGR: Health Sciences, Section E UGR: Health Sciences, Section EE UGR: Health Sciences, Section FF UGR: Health Sciences, Section GG UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section A UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section AA UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section B UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section BB UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section C UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section CC UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section D UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section DD UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section E UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section EE UGR: Psychology and Neuroscience, Section FF UGR: Research, Section AA

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Campus/Institution: USC School of Medicine - Columbia USC School of Medicine - Greenville Aiken Beaufort Columbia Lancaster Palmetto College Prisma Health Salkehatchie Sumter Tandem Health Union Upstate

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Presenter Name(s)	Mentor and Co‑Author Name(s)	Abstract Title	Session Time / Location	Poster Number / Oral Presentation Time
DeVries, Melanie	Liese, Angela Davis, Rachel Bekelman, Traci Sarwar, Sneha Mendoza, Jay Bush, Kamille	Experiences of Stigma Among Young Adults with Diabetes View Full Text Abstract Text Objectives: Diabetes stigma, the stereotyping and discrimination that those with diabetes face, may cause individuals to feel shame, leading to isolation, depression, anxiety, or worsened diabetes management. This study explored experiences of stigma among young adults with type 1 (T1D) and type 2 (T2D) diabetes. Methods: Thematic analyses were conducted on data obtained from in-depth interviews with 15 participants in the SEARCH Food Security 2 Cohort study (11 T1D, 4 T2D; 12 females, 3 males). Four major themes emerged: participants faced discrimination, felt they were seen differently, felt embarrassed to have diabetes because others indicated they are to blame for causing the disease, and desired better diabetes education for the public. Results: Participants commented that diabetes stigma negatively influenced their lives. One participant felt they were “looked at weird”. Many reported experiencing unfair treatment because of diabetes, specifically in the workplace. One was fired because of diabetes-related hospitalization. Participants also shared incidents where comments made them feel they were responsible for causing their diabetes. Multiple participants reported being seen as drug users while administering insulin. A participant stated, “I’ve given myself insulin with a woman banging on my window saying, ‘Don’t do it.’” Many participants described hiding their diabetes, feeling ashamed, and delaying necessary management, such as injecting insulin and eating to correct blood sugars. Conclusions: All participants reported experiencing stigma and made efforts, sometimes to the detriment of their diabetes management, to avoid those negative experiences. Future efforts should focus on educating the public regarding diabetes and its management, particularly in public settings.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Holden, Sara	Adlof, Suzanne Berrier, Taylor Mitchell, Alexis	Heart Rate Variability and Emotions in Children with and without Language and Literacy Problems View Full Text Abstract Text Children with language and literacy problems may experience difficulties regulating their emotions when facing the prospect of being asked to read in front of others. They may also have difficulties regulating their emotions when informed that they will be asked to reflect on and share their feelings about word reading. This project will look at three cases (one child who has neither language nor literacy problems, one child who has language problems, and one child who has both language and literacy problems) and examine changes in heart rate, heart rate variability, and behavioral signs of being emotionally challenged in response to being given instructions to a) read a word list as quickly as they can and b) to listen and answer questions about their feelings about reading, in order to provide information about the physiological aspect of their emotion regulation during these circumstances.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Gerona, Earl Jasper	Cai, Li Aghasafari, Sahar	Structuring Proteins through Visual Science Communication – A Chemistry Perspective View Full Text Abstract Text This project examines how visual storytelling can support accurate and engaging science communication from a chemistry perspective within STEAM education. Under faculty mentorship, I contributed to the development of a graphic narrative focused on protein structure, with particular attention to ensuring scientific accuracy while adapting complex biochemical concepts for visual presentation. Grounded in interdisciplinary approaches to science education and visual communication, this project bridges chemistry and media arts to enhance understanding of molecular science concepts (National Research Council, 2012). My primary role involved researching and explaining the stages of protein structure, including primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary levels, and translating this information into an educational storyline appropriate for broad audiences. I collaborated closely with art and media arts students by assisting with script development and providing iterative feedback on illustrations to ensure that visual metaphors, terminology, and representations aligned with accepted biochemical principles. Although digital illustration was not my primary skill, I learned to use Krita, an open-source digital painting software, to contribute directly to the visual communication process. Throughout the project, I documented my learning through reflective journals and progress reviews, focusing on how visual media can support comprehension of abstract scientific ideas. This process aligns with research demonstrating that multimedia and visual learning strategies can improve engagement and conceptual understanding in science education (Mayer, 2009; American Chemical Society, 2020). In addition, I collaborated with peers across disciplines, including contributing voice acting to an animated science narrative, further reinforcing the project’s collaborative STEAM framework. The final outcome is a scientifically accurate graphic narrative that will be presented at USC Discover Day. Overall, this project demonstrates how interdisciplinary collaboration and visual communication can strengthen scientific literacy, communication skills, and transferable competencies relevant to careers in healthcare, education, and science-related fields. References American Chemical Society. (2020). Visualizing Biochemistry: Communication in the Molecular Sciences. https://www.acs.org Mayer, R. E. (2009). Multimedia Learning (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press. National Research Council. (2012). Discipline-Based Education Research: Understanding and Improving Learning in Undergraduate Science and Engineering. The National Academies Press	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bratnichenko, Vera	McDonnell, Karen	Health Belief Model Predictors of Colorectal Cancer Screening Beliefs Among Russian-speaking Immigrants in South Carolina View Full Text Abstract Text Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Russian-speaking immigrants from former Soviet Union countries face cultural and linguistic barriers, reducing their engagement in CRC screening. We examined demographic and sociocultural correlates of Health Belief Model (HBM) constructs related to CRC screening in Russian-speaking immigrants. Methods Participants in this cross-sectional study were Russian-speaking immigrants aged ≥40 years residing in Upstate South Carolina (n = 167), who completed a survey structured using components of the HBM. We used Spearman correlation, general linear models, and logistic regression (dichotomized construct outcomes). Results HBM subscales demonstrated acceptable to excellent internal consistency (α = 0.70–0.92). Education and cultural background were associated with multiple screening-related beliefs. Birth country and family CRC history interacted, influencing perceived susceptibility (F(2,48) = 3.9; P = .027). Higher education was associated with fewer perceived barriers (P = .041) with a trend toward greater perceived benefits (P = .088). Cross-construct models indicated that perceived benefits and perceived barriers jointly explained 39% of the variance in self-efficacy (P < .001). In logistic models, higher perceived benefits (odds ratio (OR) = 6.17, P < .001) and lower perceived barriers (OR = 0.43, P = .029) were associated with higher self-efficacy for CRC screening. Conclusions CRC screening beliefs among Russian-speaking immigrants were strongly associated with perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and educational context, while perceived severity was consistently high. Impact These findings identify modifiable belief targets that may inform culturally responsive CRC prevention strategies for Russian-speaking and other immigrant populations.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Chapman-Waring, Tosjane	Rinker, Jen	Functional Role of Nucleus Accumbens Parvalbumin Interneurons in Regulating Binge Alcohol Consumption Pre- and Post-Dependence View Full Text Abstract Text Binge drinking, defined as consuming enough alcohol within approximately two hours to achieve a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, is increasing in prevalence and is a major risk factor for the development and progression of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Despite its clinical significance, the underlying neural mechanisms that drive the escalation from binge drinking to dependence remain poorly understood. This study uses a mouse model of binge drinking to investigate the role of a sparse interneuron population, parvalbumin interneurons (PV-INs), in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a brain region heavily implicated in excessive alcohol drinking and general reward circuitry of the brain. To accomplish this, we will chemogenetically activate PV-INs prior to and after induction of alcohol dependence to determine PV-IN involvement in regulating binge drinking. Methods: Transgenic PV-Cre mice received bilateral stereotaxic injections of Cre-dependent Gq-DREADDs (Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs) or control virus into the NAc. Following recovery, mice underwent baseline “Drinking in the Dark” (DID) sessions, to model binge drinking phenotypes seen in humans. To activate PV-INs, mice received intraperitoneal injections of either deschloroclozapine (DCZ; 0.1mg/kg) or saline thirty minutes prior to DID sessions. Alcohol dependence was induced through four cycles of chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) vapor exposure (16 hours/day, 5 days/week). Animals underwent alternating cycles of DID and CIE. Results: Data collection is still underway to assess the role of these NAc PV-INs before and after alcohol dependence. Conclusions: This study utilizes chemogenetic techniques in combination with a mouse model of binge-alcohol drinking and alcohol dependence to assess the role of PV-IN activation in both nondependent and dependent states. By validating the dysregulation of the inhibitory role of PV-INs on alcohol seeking post-dependence, this work will advance our understanding of adaptations in AUD and supports potential therapeutic targeting of NAc interneuron populations.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Tellier, Gabrielle	Peryshkov, Dmitry	Probing the Cooperative Reactivity of Tetrazine-Phosphine Systems View Full Text Abstract Text Main group catalysts, especially those that feature element-ligand cooperativity, are an emergent substitute to expensive and toxic transition metal catalysts. In particular, harnessing the redox non-innocence of a ligand to enhance main group reactivity can lead to exciting small molecule activation and transformations. Tetrazine, a nitrogen-containing analogue of benzene, is a promising redox-active fragment considering its reversible multi-electron and proton acquisition. In this work, we will discuss the pairing of electron-deficient tetrazine with a typically reductive main group element, such as phosphorus(III), to probe the possibility of cooperative behavior at the non-metal center. Synthetic routes to several tetrazine-phosphine systems will be discussed, as well as their bond activation chemistry.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Nussbaum, Bryce	Peryshkov, Dmitry	Cluster-Driven Reactivity Umpolung of Bulky Redox-Active Carboranyl Diphosphines View Full Text Abstract Text Synthesis of a vast array of valuable organic molecules is often only possible through the rational design of modular scaffolds with functional groups possessing tailorable reactivity. Umpolung, which is the reversal of polarity for a functional group, is one attractive method for this selective derivatization. For example, electrophilic carbonyls can be transformed into dithianes, which become nucleophilic upon deprotonation. At the same time, the chemistry of trivalent phosphines, which are ubiquitous as both ligands and organocatalysts, is overwhelmingly determined by their nucleophilicity. In this presentation, an unusual reactivity of carboranyl diphosphines is demonstrated. Carboranes provide redox-active supports that function as electron acceptors and can be paired with electron-donating phosphines. We report a regioselective nucleophilic attack at phosphorus, which has been rendered electrophilic by efficient overlap of the lone pair with the LUMO within the electron-withdrawing cluster. We also report the synthesis of a bulky carboranyl diphosphine which was previously deemed impossible via manipulation of the redox activity of the cluster. This new diphosphine similarly exhibits electrophilic behavior upon coordination to a gold(I) metal center. While traditional literature posits that carboranyl diphosphines act as nucleophiles in bond activation reactions, we aim to establish a rich library of electrophilic pathways that unlock new derivatives without significant side products.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Hardee, Kaylee	Rhea, Catherine	Enhancing Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy Implementation With Instructional Videos for SVV and PPV Monitors View Full Text Abstract Text This study evaluated whether simplifying pulse pressure variation (PPV) monitor setup via instructional videos increased Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists’ (CRNAs) willingness to use these devices to support goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) within Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols. A quasi-experimental design was used to assess changes in CRNA knowledge, confidence, and likelihood of PPV use before and after exposure to a brief educational seminar and QR code–linked instructional videos. A total of 22 CRNAs participated in the pre-survey, and 20 completed the post-survey. In the pre-intervention survey, only 9.1% of participants reported frequently using PPV, and confidence in setup was predominantly low to medium. Half of CRNAs cited setup complexity as the primary barrier to use. Post-intervention results demonstrated statistically significant improvements: the likelihood of future PPV use (p = 0.000013), perceived usefulness of the QR code intervention (p = 0.000037), and confidence in independently setting up PPV machines (p = 0.024). Notably, 95% of participants reported they were very likely to use PPV moving forward, with a clear shift from medium to high confidence levels after the intervention. These findings suggest that an intervention such as a QR code–linked video can meaningfully address setup-related barriers, enhance provider confidence, and promote adoption of evidence-based fluid management strategies. Continued reinforcement through hands-on training may further strengthen long-term proficiency and sustain clinical impact.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Luis, Sara	Aghasafari, Sahar Cai, Li	Visualizing Protein Structures: Graphic Storytelling Through Digital Art View Full Text Abstract Text This project investigates how graphic storytelling can serve as an effective science communication strategy within STEAM education. I collaborated with faculty mentorship to translate complex biochemical concepts, specifically protein structure, into an accessible visual narrative designed for middle school audiences. Grounded in arts-based research methodologies, which emphasize creative inquiry as a legitimate mode of knowledge production, and transdisciplinary STEAM practices that integrate the arts to deepen STEM understanding, this project bridges visual art and molecular science to enhance scientific literacy and engagement (Leavy, 2020; Marshall, 2014). Using ProCreate, I developed a comic-style narrative featuring relatable characters and visual metaphors to explain amino acids, polypeptide chains, and the basic principles of protein structure. My creative process included narrative development, panel composition, and iterative digital illustration, supported by reflective journaling and formative feedback. These approaches align with research demonstrating that storytelling and visual media can improve public understanding of science and foster positive attitudes toward scientific topics (Dudo & Besley, 2016). The final outcome is a completed graphic story that communicates accurate scientific content through humor, character-driven storytelling, and clear visual design, and will be presented at Discover USC. This project highlights the pedagogical potential of arts-based, student-centered approaches for inclusive science communication. Overall, my work demonstrates how integrating digital media arts into STEM learning can support interdisciplinary skill development, increase accessibility for diverse learners, and contribute to innovative models of STEAM education (Aghasafari & Malloy, 2024). References Aghasafari, S., & Malloy, M. (2024). Blending media arts with mathematics: Insights and innovations in STEAM education. Journal of Mathematics & Technology, 18(3), 198–210. Dudo, A., & Besley, J. C. (2016). Scientists’ prioritization of communication objectives for public engagement. PLoS ONE, 11(2), e0148867. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0148867 Leavy, P. (2020). Method Meets Art: Arts-Based Research Practice (3rd ed.). The Guilford Press. Marshall, J. (2014). Transdisciplinarity and art integration: Toward a new understanding of art-based learning across the curriculum. Studies in Art Education, 55(2), 104–127.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Gonzalez-Eulogio, Sergio	Aghasafari, Sahar Cai, Li Malloy, Mark	Animating Protein Structures: Character-Driven Science Narratives View Full Text Abstract Text This project investigates how character-driven animation can function as an effective science communication strategy within STEAM education. Under faculty mentorship, I developed an animated narrative that visualizes protein structure through storytelling, performance-based animation, and accessible scientific metaphors. Grounded in arts-based research methodologies, which position creative practice as a form of inquiry, and interdisciplinary STEAM education frameworks that integrate the arts to deepen STEM learning, this project bridges media arts and molecular science to support scientific literacy and engagement (Leavy, 2020). Using Adobe Character Animator, I created an original two-minute animation titled Friendship Is Like a Protein Structure. The project involved scriptwriting, storyboarding, character design in Adobe Illustrator, and performance-based animation through real-time motion capture and lip-syncing. Through a narrative set in a library, my characters introduce and explain key levels of protein structure, primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary, using humor, dialogue, and relatable social interactions. Collaboration with peers for voice acting further enriched the storytelling process and mirrored professional animation workflows. Throughout the project, reflective journaling and formative critiques supported my artistic development and science communication skills. This approach aligns with research indicating that narrative media and visual storytelling can improve public engagement with scientific content and foster positive attitudes toward science. The final outcome is a completed animated video that will be presented at Discover USC. Overall, this project demonstrates how animation and digital storytelling can make complex scientific concepts more accessible while cultivating technical skills, creativity, and interdisciplinary thinking central to inclusive STEAM education (Aghasafari & Malloy, 2024). References Aghasafari, S., & Malloy, M. (2024). Blending media arts with mathematics: Insights and innovations in STEAM education. Journal of Mathematics & Technology, 18(3), 198–210. Leavy, P. (2020). Method Meets Art: Arts-Based Research Practice (3rd ed.). The Guilford Press.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Palmer, Katherine	Shinkareva, Svetlana Oh, Sewon	Beyond the Sound: Community Awareness for Misophonia View Full Text Abstract Text Misophonia is a behavioral phenomenon of decreased sound tolerance associated with intense responses to specific auditory triggers, estimated to impact 5% of the population (Dixon et al., 2024). Symptoms of misophonia include psychological feelings of panic, anxiety, and rage, combined with the physiological effects of autonomic arousal responsible for the involuntary fight-or-flight response (Swedo et al., 2022). Triggers are often repetitive patterns of sound, most commonly chewing, tapping, and other human-produced sounds (Edelstein et al., 2013). Despite its prevalence and impact, misophonia is largely unknown and unrecognized. For individuals with misophonia, university settings can involve numerous triggers and can be particularly distressing. While there has been a recent push for advancements in misophonia research, a significant gap remains in public education and community-level awareness. The Beyond the Sound project aims to address the lack of public awareness of misophonia by increasing the USC community’s knowledge of the condition and reducing stigma surrounding misophonia. The objectives include creating a supportive community for students with misophonia, spreading psychoeducation materials, and increasing engagement in misophonia research while connecting struggling students to resources and recording survey data. Presentations and surveys delivered to student groups, such as U101 classrooms and student organizations, demonstrated that 64.8% of students sampled had never heard of misophonia before; however, over 40.6% of attendees sampled reported symptoms or thought they might know someone with misophonia after learning about the condition. Additional quantitative measures are recorded to gauge growth in community outreach, allowing for the measurement of project impact and evaluation of potential prevalence rates in the community. By increasing public awareness of misophonia, the project makes an immediate difference for individuals with misophonia who feel isolated.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Walker, Kaitlin McCloskey, Sarah	Iszard, DNAP, CRNA, FAANA, FNP-C, FNP-BC, Marcia	Stress Reduction in Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists View Full Text Abstract Text The transition of nurse anesthesia programs to the doctoral level has expanded the educational, clinical, and academic demands of student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs). Increased demands placed on SRNAs contribute to high levels of stress. Research supports that high stress levels can impact the academic performance, sleep quality, learning ability, and clinical performance of students. This study aims to determine whether participation in four 30-minute group walks elicits a positive impact in the overall perceived stress levels of SRNAs from the classes of 2026 and 2027 at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Nurse Anesthesia Program, as measured by the Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10). In this study, 66 SRNAs completed the PSS-10 pre-survey prior to participation in group walks, and 60 SRNAs completed the PSS-10 post-survey. Prior to the study, 60.3% of SRNAs reported feeling stressed “very often” or “fairly often”. After completion of the study, 27.7% of SRNAs reported feeling stressed “very often” or “fairly often”. Overall, participants reported a decrease in stress and attributed the reduction to their participation in group walks. 95.45% of SRNAs reported they would recommend this group exercise program to fellow SRNAs, and 86.2% of SRNAs stated they plan to continue group walks as a method of stress reduction. While the study found a positive correlation between reduced stress in SRNAs and the participation in group walks, additional research is warranted to explore potential confounding variables and provide insight into the long-term benefits of group exercise and stress reduction.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Maldeni Kankanamalage, Buddhima K. P.	Shustova, Natalia B.	Catalyst Hide-and-Seek Beneath Porous Support Surfaces View Full Text Abstract Text Integration of efficient molecular catalysts into porous solid-state supports (e.g., metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) or mesoporous silica) is an attractive approach that merges the high selectivity and reactivity of homogeneous catalysts with the recyclability of heterogeneous ones, therefore aligning with the goals of a more sustainable chemical industry. However, current literature lacks a fundamental understanding of catalyst (re)positioning in porous scaffolds, which defines active site accessibility and catalytic activity, is directly impacted by the nature of the host matrix and synthetic methodology. Herein, we present a transformative approach that allows for precise mapping of catalyst positioning in porous supports, revealing how distinct catalyst integration mechanisms and active site positioning within solid-state scaffolds govern catalytic efficiency and recyclability. The developed strategy based on Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) analysis provides the first example of direct catalyst mapping (i.e., without employing fluorescent tags or model systems) in three different porous materials before and after their exposure to industrially used reaction conditions. We demonstrate that increasing pore size from microporous MOFs to mesoporous silica promotes catalyst distribution deep inside the bulk porous material. In addition, we reveal how three common catalyst integration strategies result in completely different catalyst distributions, ultimately defining their applicability for industrially relevant catalytic reactions. This fundamental understanding of Angstrom-level catalyst distribution provides a platform for designing hybrid porous materials with enhanced catalytic activity and durability.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Yang, Liuxu	Liu, Jiang	Prosodic Boundary Perception in Mandarin Heritage Speakers View Full Text Abstract Text In second language (L2) speech learning, it is believed that the earlier the start, the better. We examined whether early-start heritage speakers of Mandarin showed an advantage over late-start L2 learners in perceiving prosodic boundaries in a sentence. The critical manipulation involved creating minimal pairs of sentences where all segments and lexical tones were homophonous but differed in meaning due to a prosodic boundary contrast (e.g., weak boundary: Yīn Ānqīng | mō māomī ‘(A person named) Yin Anqing pats a kitten.’ vs. strong boundary: Yīn Ān | qīng mō māomī ‘Yin An gently pats a kitten.’). Three groups (Native, Heritage, and L2 learners) completed an auditory sentence-choice task by selecting which of the two sentences they heard. Accuracy and RT results revealed a significant interaction between group and boundary type and a clear group gradient: native speakers performed near ceiling, while heritage and L2 learners showed lower accuracy and slower processing. Although heritage speakers did not significantly outperform L2 learners in accuracy, their perceptual pattern more closely resembled native performance, displaying clearer sensitivity to strong boundaries, whereas L2 learners showed more idiosyncratically and less systematic responses.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Downs-Paprocki, Kyla Heitman, June	Lowell, Randy	Can you spot a serial killer? View Full Text Abstract Text Imagine that you’re asked to identify the perpetrator of a violent crime and are presented with suspects, some you’re told have mental disorders. Would that push you towards those suspects? Based on the literature related to attitudes about mental illness and violence, this may be the case (e.g., Angermeyer & Matschinger, 1996; Link et al., 1999; Swanson et al, 2008; Van Dorn et al., 2012). Many studies in the literature that look at these connections between mental illness, and attitudes about mental illness, and violence reflect explicit attitudes on this topic. The current study brings awareness to bias at a physiological level connected to conscious awareness of what people think they use to make judgments. We connect those attitudes to the extreme violence by serial killers. That is, do people associate mental illness with serial killers, and if so, how strong is that association and how aware are people of that association for themselves? Specifically, we examine how biases, such as those related to stereotypes surrounding mental illness and violence affect assumptions about characteristics of serial killers. This includes examination of the roles of implicit (i.e., eye movement behavior) and explicit (i.e., survey responses) attitudes related to mental illness and other demographic characteristics on judgments about serial killers. Participants completed pre- and post-eyetracking questionnaires. For the eyetracking portion, participants read a series of 36 trial profiles in random order on the screen (24 serial killer, 12 controls). Each profile consisted of 10 characteristics about a real person, and based on those characteristics, the participant indicated if they believed that the profile was a serial killer (“yes”) or not (“no”). Discrepancies between the profile information that people implicitly attended to (i.e., eye movement behavior) and their explicit responses regarding which information they believed they relied on will be discussed.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Chowdhury, Shreekrishna	Janse van Rensburg, Margaret	Different Paradigms, Shared Aims: A Framework for Assessing How Research Paradigms Contribute to Social Good View Full Text Abstract Text Research paradigms are frequently viewed as hierarchically ordered or epistemologically incompatible, especially in discussions about social justice and rigor. By presenting an analytical framework for analyzing how various research paradigms can contribute to social good in different but complementary ways, this article challenges such dichotomies. The framework evaluates paradigmatic contributions in the areas of ontology, epistemology, positionality, knowledge validation, and social impact, drawing on feminist, decolonial, and epistemic justice scholarship. The framework is demonstrated by comparing two studies that operate within different paradigms: Siddique et al.’s (2022) quantitative study of mental health literacy among Bangladeshi university students and Liang's (2022) community-centered analysis of autistic BIPOC parent blogs. The analysis shows that both studies produce socially valuable knowledge through different mechanisms, despite having different ontological and epistemological commitments. One study does this by amplifying marginalized voices, while the other produces population-level evidence that is relevant to policy. The article’s conclusion outlines implications for future justice-oriented scholarship and makes the case for a paradigm-sensitive assessment of research contributions to social good. Keywords: Epistemic Justice; research paradigms; social good; decolonial epistemology; mental health; qualitative-quantitative comparison	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Rechsteiner, Jenna	Boggs, Carol Duverglas, Laurent	Morphological Variation in Euphydryas gillettii Butterflies Across Time and Space View Full Text Abstract Text Examining variation in dispersal capability is essential to understanding the effects of global environmental change on the ability of organisms to colonize new habitats. Dispersal capability depends on wing morphology. I examined the disparity in dispersal potential between and within two populations of differing age of Euphydryas gillettii in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. To examine morphological differences as a function of space, approximately 70 butterflies were photographed from two sites, which differ in their habitat characteristics. Wing and body size measurements were taken from the photographs, and the butterflies were weighed to the nearest 0.1 mg. These measurements were used to determine wing loading and aspect ratio. To determine how E. gillettii morphologies have changed across time, wing measurements were compared to measurements derived from photos in one of the sites in 2011, 2013, 2017, 2019, and 2024. Initial data analysis shows significant differences in wing loading as a function of sex and site and differences in aspect ratio as a function of site, sex, and year. Our results indicate that dispersal capability is changing across both space and time.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Staniszewski, Adrianna	Wirth, Michael Dawson, Robin Abshire, Demetrius	Comparing Academic Stress and Perceived Stress Among Nursing Students of Various Education Levels View Full Text Abstract Text Background: The nursing undergraduate major tends to be one of the most stressful undergraduate degrees. Evidence shows that stress does not only affect undergraduate nursing students during their education but carries through to their professional lives. Less research exists about graduate nursing student stress. Purpose: Determine if nursing students in post- vs pre-licensure programs experience the same levels of academic/perceived stress. Methods: This study was a comparative cross-sectional design. The pre-licensure cohort consisted of Lower Division Undergraduates, Upper Division Undergraduates, and Master’s Entry to Practice Nursing students. The post-licensure cohort consisted of Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Master of Nursing Practice students. Data were collected using virtual surveys on RedCap software that measured perceived and academic stress using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and Academic Stress Scale. Confounding variables were collected using the Resilience Scale for Adults (RSA), Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CESD) scale, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Eating at America’s Table Quick Food Scan, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Data was analyzed through correlation testing and two-sample t-testing. Results: Within pre-licensure, there was a strong positive correlation between academic stress and perceived stress (⍴=0.67). There was no significant correlation between academic stress and perceived stress in post-licensure students (⍴=0.37). Within post-licensure, there was a strong negative correlation between CESD score and the ‘social resources’ subscore of the RSA (⍴=0.62). Post-licensure students had a significantly higher PSS-10 score of 21.94 versus pre-licensure students’ score of 19.57 (p=0.008). Post-licensure students had a significantly higher ‘personal strength/perception of self’ resilience scale subscore of 22.58 versus pre-licensure's subscore of 19.56 (p=<0.01). Conclusions/Implications: This area of research would greatly benefit from a study focusing on each individual education level, as well as qualitative interviews or focus groups to provide personalized insight.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Tiseth, Olivia	Vaughn, Paige	Evaluating Procedural Justice Attitudes and Behaviors Using Body-Worn Cameras View Full Text Abstract Text Procedural justice training has shown to be effective at changing police attitudes towards community members, but there’s still little proof that this training changes actual behaviors in the field. This project aims to assess the impact of procedural justice training on the behaviors exhibited by police officers in Yonkers, NY, using body-worn camera (BWC) footage. In particular, we will examine officer interactions with civilians in various situations, including in responding to frequent calls for service, such as disorderly persons, verbal disputes, traffic violations, and suspicious persons, and in proactively engaging with citizens via directed patrol. This will allow us to determine the behavioral effects of procedural justice training as well as uncover specific areas for improvement. In the process, we have developed a novel method for quantifying procedural justice behaviors in BWC footage and thereby allow for more meaningful accountability using this widespread – though as yet unproven – technology. Our goal is to measure the prevalence of each “pillar” of procedural justice – voice, neutrality, respect, benevolence – in BWC footage. This model allows us to conduct a statistically robust study on the real-world impact of procedural justice training. Moreover, such a model could allow police departments and scholars to draw insights from the vast amounts of BWC video that is currently underutilized or disregarded entirely.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kaminsky, Lukas Swygert, Dorothy-Faye	LeBlanc, Kevin	EDUCATING ANESTHESIA PROVIDERS ON PEDIATRIC PREOPERATIVE FASTING GUIDELINES View Full Text Abstract Text Pediatric preoperative fasting instructions to families often lack consistency, leading to unnecessarily prolonged fasting times that come with associated physiological and psychological harm. This quality improvement project aimed to educate anesthesia providers at two level one trauma centers on the current evidence-based pediatric fasting guidelines recommended by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), with the goal of promoting informed clinical practice and potential policy development. Using a structured educational intervention with pre-/post-surveys, the project assessed provider knowledge, attitudes, and readiness for change. Results demonstrated significant learning regarding breast milk fasting recommendations (p = 0.025); although changes in knowledge about other fasting categories were less conclusive, they suggest existing knowledge. Notably, over 82% of participants agreed that children are being fasted too long, and all respondents acknowledged the importance of developing institutional fasting policies within this health system. Despite limitations such as a small sample size and potential discussion bias during survey completion, findings indicate a positive shift in provider perspectives and support for policy change. Future research should explore the implementation of standardized fasting protocols and evaluate their impact on patient outcomes and institutional compliance.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Karveti, Varshitha Reddy	Velazquez, Kandy Mohammed, Ahmed	Evaluating Busulfan and Anti-GPIbα Platelet Depletion Strategies in ApcMin/+ Mouse Models of Cancer Cachexia View Full Text Abstract Text Cachexia is a debilitating muscle-wasting syndrome associated with chronic illnesses including cancer, AIDS, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. Although inflammation is a key driver of cachexia, the specific roles of individual immune components remain unclear. Platelets, anucleate cell fragments derived from megakaryocytes are increasingly recognized as important regulators of inflammation and immunity. We previously found that platelet counts rise before cachexia onset in ApcMin/+ mice and that platelets become activated as the condition progresses. In this study, we investigated the effects of platelet depletion in cancer-associated cachexia using the ApcMin/+ mouse, a well-established model of spontaneous colorectal cancer and cachexia. We profiled circulating immune cells across disease stages and employed two platelet-depletion strategies: a monoclonal anti-GPIbα antibody and the chemotherapeutic agent busulfan. Functional outcomes were assessed through grip-strength testing, muscle-mass measurements, and hematological and immunological analyses. Anti-GPIbα treatment selectively reduced resting platelet numbers while leaving activated platelets unchanged. Unexpectedly, busulfan increased platelet counts exclusively in ApcMin/+ mice, counter to its anticipated depleting effect in both ApcMin/+ and WT animals. These measurements showed that platelet phenotype more accurately distinguished cachectic from pre-cachectic mice than blood or muscle profiles. In summary, these findings indicate that platelets contribute to immune regulation in cancer cachexia and highlight their possible function as muscle-wasting sensors and potential biomarkers of cachexia progression.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Mallison, Jasmine Rorie, Rachel	Iszard, Marcia	Peer Assisted Learning for SRNAs View Full Text Abstract Text Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) has emerged as an effective educational strategy across various healthcare disciplines, yet its application within nurse anesthesia programs remains underexplored. This doctoral project aimed to establish and evaluate a structured PAL program within the University of South Carolina’s Nurse Anesthesia curriculum. The intervention targeted first-year Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs) enrolled in the Basic Principles of Anesthesia I course, with upperclassmen serving as peer mentors. Grounded in constructivist learning theory and guided by Kotter’s change model, this project sought to enhance academic performance, alleviate stress, and foster professional growth. Six PAL sessions were implemented throughout the Spring 2025 semester. Quantitative data comparing examination scores from the 2027 cohort (intervention group) with those from the 2026 cohort (non-intervention group) were analyzed using two-sample independent t-tests. Three of six exams showed statistically significant improvements in scores (p < 0.05) in the 2027 cohort, suggesting a positive academic impact. A qualitative Likert-scale survey assessed student perceptions, revealing that over 80% of respondents found the sessions helpful and would recommend them to future cohorts. While the quantitative results were mixed, the overall trends and qualitative feedback indicated that PAL is a promising adjunct to traditional nurse anesthesia education. Implementation challenges, including scheduling, platform adjustments, and content source limitations, were addressed through adaptive strategies. This project provides a foundation for expanding PAL within nurse anesthesia programs and highlights its potential to support both academic success and emotional resilience among SRNAs. Future research should explore broader applications across different courses, long-term benefits, and the reciprocal impact on student mentors.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Schaub, Cathleen Wamsley, Ellen	Morris, Sheena	Preoperative Use of Point-Of-Care Ultrasound for Gastric Residual Volume Assessment View Full Text Abstract Text Pulmonary aspiration remains a significant perioperative risk, particularly in patients with delayed gastric emptying. This doctoral project evaluated the implementation and impact of an educational intervention promoting the use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) for gastric residual volume assessment in the preoperative setting. The intervention targeted Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and Anesthesiologist Assistants (AAs) at three major hospitals in South Carolina, with a focus on care of the population taking glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), which are known to impair gastric emptying. Participants completed pre-and post-intervention surveys assessing their knowledge, attitudes, and likelihood of recommending POCUS in high-risk patient populations. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests, paired proportion tests, and chi-square crosstabs.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Smith, Anna Rua, Kristen	Gutshall, Catherine	IMPACT OF LOW-FIDELITY TASK TRAINER EDUCATION ON REACTION TIME AND CONFIDENCE IN A TENSION PNEUMOTHORAX CRITICAL EVENT SIMULATION View Full Text Abstract Text Tension pneumothorax is a rare and potentially life-threatening perioperative complication that anesthesia providers must recognize and treat promptly. University of South Carolina currently teaches Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs) about tension pneumothorax treatment through slide-based learning and videos without simulation. This project was designed to evaluate the impact of low-fidelity task trainers on student performance and learning outcomes, specifically in the setting of tension pneumothorax. SRNAs were divided into an experimental group that had a hands-on session practicing needle decompression and a control group that did not. Then, the SRNAs participated in a high-fidelity tension pneumothorax simulation scenario where their responses were evaluated. There was one statistically significant finding: The experimental group developed a greater increase in confidence regarding where to place the needle for decompression than the control group. In additional post-survey results, there was an overall greater increase in confidence surrounding needle decompression performance in the experimental group than the control group. The experimental group also performed needle decompression 28.6 seconds faster on average than the control group. The project supports the hypothesis that the performance of low-fidelity, hands-on instruction in needle decompression before a simulation event results in students demonstrating quicker, more accurate task completion and enhanced confidence in managing a tension pneumothorax. The increased confidence and competence displayed by those in the experimental group of this study is clinically significant and supports the inclusion of low-fidelity skill sessions of needle decompression in SRNA education at the University of South Carolina. Ultimately, these findings also support further exploration of the benefits of hands-on skill training in a low fidelity setting to increase quality of skill performance in anesthesia.  Keywords: Tension Pneumothorax, Low-fidelity, Simulation, Needle Decompression	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Roach, Daniel	Morris, Sheena	Reflection on Self-Performance Using Video Recordings View Full Text Abstract Text This project evaluated whether integrating video-recorded self-assessment and reflection with traditional training reduced clinical anxiety and enhanced procedural confidence, familiarity, and readiness for endotracheal intubation among first-year student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs) at the University of South Carolina. The project also examined students’ perceptions of video feedback as a learning tool and its effectiveness in identifying areas for self-improvement. A quasi-experimental study with a nonequivalent control group design was conducted. First-year SRNAs (n=24) completed a pre-survey to establish a baseline for the metrics measured. Of these, a subset (n=9) participated in an intervention involving a video-recorded intubation simulation followed by video review for self-assessment and reflection. Post-surveys were completed by the remaining participants (n=23). The intervention group demonstrated higher median scores across five of six survey items, including perceived confidence, procedural readiness, and ability to identify areas for improvement. Statistically significant differences were observed in four of the six survey items (p < 0.05). The most remarkable difference was observed in participants’ ability to identify specific areas for improvement, along with confidence and perceived preparedness, where the intervention group had a significantly higher median score than the non-intervention group. These findings support the incorporation of reflective video review into early clinical training to enhance SRNA self-efficacy and competence, with implications for improving both educational outcomes and patient safety. Keywords: Student Registered Nurse Anesthetist (SRNA), endotracheal intubation, video self-assessment, simulation-based education, clinical preparedness	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Smith, Kateryna	Morris, Sheena	Reflection on Self-Performance Using Video Recordings View Full Text Abstract Text This project evaluated the impact of integrating video recordings of self-performance for self-assessment and reflection, alongside traditional training methods, on clinical anxiety, confidence, procedural familiarity, and readiness for endotracheal intubation among first-year student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs) at the University of South Carolina (USC) before their first intubation in a clinical environment. A quasi-experimental study with a nonequivalent control group design was utilized. First-year SRNAs (n = 24) completed a pre-survey to establish baseline data. A subset (n = 9) participated in an intervention involving a video-recorded intubation simulation, followed by a video review for self-assessment and reflection. Post-surveys were completed by the remaining participants (n = 23). The results were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U-test. The intervention group demonstrated higher median scores across five of six survey items compared to the non-intervention group, with statistically significant differences in four items (p < 0.05). The most notable differences were observed in participants’ ability to identify areas for improvement, confidence, and perceived preparedness. These findings suggest that integrating reflective video review early into clinical training can enhance SRNA self-efficacy and competence. Future research should continue exploring the role of reflective practice in clinical skill development and stress management. Ultimately, this project may benefit nurse anesthetist education by fostering more competent providers and safer patient care.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Larson, Abigail	Bush, Kamille Liese, Angela Lane, Madeline	Food Insecurity and Competing Resource Allocation in Diabetes Management. View Full Text Abstract Text Objectives: Food Insecurity (FI) can shape budgeting decisions between food and medical supplies in individuals living with chronic illness, such as diabetes. This study explores the trade-offs that influence dietary behaviors and self-management of young adults with youth-onset diabetes experiencing FI. Methods: A qualitative analysis was conducted using the interview data of the ongoing SEARCH Food Security 2 (SFS2). A thematic analysis of interviews from a subset of 5 food insecure participants (Female- 3, Male-2; SC- 3, CO-2; T1D- 4, T2D-1; FS1-1, FS3- 1; FS4-3) provided qualitative insights into diabetes self-management needs. Results: Participants described FI as a persistent barrier to diabetes self-management, particularly due to the high cost of foods perceived as necessary for glycemic control. Many participants reported being unable to afford fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins as recommended by healthcare providers. Instead, they relied on cheaper, less nutritious options despite awareness of negative health implications. FI was framed as a survival challenge rather than a temporary inconvenience, with participants using language such as “starving” to frame periods of limited food access. Budgeting decisions were described as emotionally taxing and characterized by constant trade-offs between food, medical supplies, and other life essentials. Participants emphasized the psychological burden of deciding whether to purchase healthier foods or meet other immediate needs as “like budgeting with the devil and angel on [their] shoulders”. Participants also reported altered eating behaviors in response to limited access to insulin. Some intentionally skipped meals to avoid increasing blood glucose levels, which would require more insulin, highlighting a direct link between medication costs and food affordability. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the hardships of diabetes self-management while experiencing FI. Understanding these challenges can provide both physician insight for chronic illness management recommendations but also work towards a systematic solution to address FI in diabetes care.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Carnahan, Alexa	Gaffney, Mary	The Need to Please: People-Pleasing Tendencies in Prelicensure Nursing Students View Full Text Abstract Text People-pleasing (PP) is a behavioral tendency characterized by an excessive desire to be liked, avoid conflict, or meet others' needs, often at the expense of one's own well-being. PP is linked with societal expectations of female-dominated professions like nursing, leading to normalization of self-sacrifice (Kaylor et al., 2025). PP is under-explored in prelicensure nursing students despite evidence linking similar behavioral patterns to negative outcomes including diminished resilience and burnout (Zhou et al., 2022); and emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and low self-worth (Georgescu & Bodislav, 2025). High performance expectations in prelicensure education likely reinforce PP behaviors (Li et al., 2025). The purpose of this research is to identify the extent to which these students manifest PP tendencies and to explore the roles of demographic and personal factors in expression of PP tendencies. Methodology A cross-sectional survey of United States prelicensure nursing students was conducted to assess PP tendencies and explore possible relationships between this phenomenon and demographic or environmental factors. A digital survey was distributed using several social media platforms. The 22-item survey included eleven demographic and personal experience questions to identify characteristics potentially promoting PP behaviors. PP tendencies were examined with Blotner’s (2025) 10-item People-Pleasing Scale (PPS) and one open-ended question. Results Recruitment is ongoing. More than half of the initial sample scored in the top third of the PPS. Relationships between demographic and personal characteristics and PPS scores will be examined. Responses to the open-ended item will undergo content analysis. Discussion The majority of prelicensure nursing students demonstrate high PP tendencies. This has implications for academic nurse educators (ANEs) who prepare students to thrive in a career that may take advantage of these tendencies. ANEs need to consider developing students’ skills related to boundary-setting, assertiveness, and emotional resilience to decrease risk for burnout and attrition from the profession.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Wendt, Matthew	LeBlanc, Kevin	Enhancing Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy Implementation with Instructional Videos for SVV and PPV Monitors View Full Text Abstract Text This study evaluated whether simplifying pulse pressure variation (PPV) monitor setup via instructional videos increased Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists’ (CRNAs) willingness to use these devices to support goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) within Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols. A quasi-experimental design was used to assess changes in CRNA knowledge, confidence, and likelihood of PPV use before and after exposure to a brief educational seminar and QR code–linked instructional videos. A total of 22 CRNAs participated in the pre-survey, and 20 completed the post-survey. In the pre-intervention survey, only 9.1% of participants reported frequently using PPV, and confidence in setup was predominantly low to medium. Half of CRNAs cited setup complexity as the primary barrier to use. Post-intervention results demonstrated statistically significant improvements: the likelihood of future PPV use (p = 0.000013), perceived usefulness of the QR code intervention (p = 0.000037), and confidence in independently setting up PPV machines (p = 0.024). Notably, 95% of participants reported they were very likely to use PPV moving forward, with a clear shift from medium to high confidence levels after the intervention. These findings suggest that an intervention such as a QR code–linked video can meaningfully address setup-related barriers, enhance provider confidence, and promote adoption of evidence-based fluid management strategies. Continued reinforcement through hands-on training may further strengthen long-term proficiency and sustain clinical impact.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Tandon, Keah Lohrbach, Emily	Starrett, Angie	Social Cognitive Career Theory: Pathways to Math Achievement Using HSLS:09 View Full Text Abstract Text Some decline in math motivation can be expected during adolescence; however, decreases in math self-efficacy and utility are concerning, given their association with math achievement and academic and career outcomes. Understanding how contextual factors, such as peer academic values, shape these motivational processes can inform interventions to support STEM persistence. A dearth exists in research exploring how peer values interact with students’ sense of math self-efficacy and identity, especially using large national datasets. Guided by social cognitive career theory, which emphasizes the role of contextual influences, learning experiences, self-efficacy, and outcome expectations in shaping academic outcomes, this study addressed two research questions: After accounting for students’ sex and SES, how do 9th-grade peer academic values and math achievement predict 11th-grade math self-efficacy? and Does 11th-grade math self-efficacy predict math identity and math GPA, and are these relationships partially mediated by educational expectations? We employed SEM using the High School Longitudinal Study (HSLS:09) on 14,635 students. The final model showed excellent fit (χ^2(78)=2915.98,p<.001;CFI=.97;RMSEA=.05,SRMR=.04). SES significantly predicted 9th-grade math achievement (β=.42,,p<.001), while both SES (β=.21,p<.001) and sex (β=.28,p<.001) predicted peer academic value. Math achievement (β=.26,p<.001) and peer academic value (β=.06,p<.001) were significant predictors of self-efficacy. Educational expectations were significantly predicted by achievement (β=.23,p<.001), peer academic value (β=.17, p<.001), self-efficacy (β=.16, p<.001), and SES (β=.20,p<.001). Math identity was strongly predicted by self-efficacy (β=.59,SE=0.01,p<.001) and achievement (β=.25,p<.001), whereas math GPA was significantly predicted by prior achievement (β=.35,p<.001), identity (β=.24,p<.001), and educational expectations (β=.24,p<.001). Final analysis in Mplus will account for complex sampling data and student weights and discuss bootstrapped effects. Findings highlight the role of peer contexts and motivational processes in shaping adolescents’ math experiences across high school, suggesting early peer academic environments and students' beliefs as key targets for intervention.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Bass, Scott	Lopez Rodriguez, Enrique	Revealing the magnetic fields towards the central supermassive black hole of the Circinus galaxy View Full Text Abstract Text Magnetic fields (B-fields) play a vital role in galactic dynamics by shaping gas flows, adding pressure to the interstellar medium, and coupling cosmic rays to non-relativistic gas. When B-field energy approaches the thermal and kinetic energy of molecular gas, it can significantly impact inflow and outflow processes—particularly in active galaxies. Our aim is to constrain the strength and geometry of B-fields across physical environments and quantify the role of magnetism in active galactic nuclei (AGN) fueling from galactic to nuclear scales. In this project, we investigate the central ~100 parsecs of the Circinus galaxy, the nearest (~4 Mpc) Type II Seyfert galaxy, a subclass of AGN with an active supermassive black hole (SMBH) surrounded by a starburst ring, mini-spiral, and dusty torus obscuring the SMBH in our line-of-sight. Our analysis uses ALMA Band 7 (0.8 – 1.1 mm) continuum polarimetry data in three different antennae configurations, which provide various angular resolutions (0.6”, 0.13”, and 0.36”, where 1” ~ 20 pc) to assess how resolution influences our ability to trace B-field structures. Using Python and Astropy, we explore the B-field morphology within the physical structures of the galaxy. Our findings show a spiral B-field structure within the central 100 pc region of the AGN. This B-field structure aligns with the mini-spiral structure of the galaxy and indicates that B-fields in that region may be shaping gas morphology.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Patel, Bhumi	Wright, Pamela	Inter-Method Reliability of Virtual and In-Person Fitness Assessments for Anthropometrics and Muscular Endurance View Full Text Abstract Text Background: The increasing use of telehealth and digital fitness platforms has created need for reliable virtual methods to assess physical performance. Virtual fitness assessments may improve access to care for individuals who face barriers to in-person services, including those managing chronic health conditions. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the inter-method reliability of virtual fitness assessments compared to in-person fitness assessments and determine whether remote methods can accurately measure anthropometrics and muscular endurance. Methods: Participants completed a virtual fitness assessment followed by an in-person fitness assessment. In both settings, anthropometrics (waist and hip circumferences) were conducted followed by the participants’ performance of three muscular endurance exercises (static squat test, push-up test, and curl up test). Performance outcomes from both assessments were compared by calculating inter-method reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients and Bland-Altman plots. Results: Overall, virtual fitness assessments demonstrated strong agreement with in-person assessments across all exercise measures. Participants were 30.8(±20.2) years, mostly female (76.5%), and diverse in race/ethnicity with a body mass index of 23.4kg/m2 (±3.8). Statistically significant intraclass correlation coefficients were excellent for waist circumference (0.93), hip circumference (0.94), and push-up test (0.94) and good for static squat test (0.89) and curl up test (0.76). Conclusion: Minor differences were observed between virtual and in-person fitness assessments, which were primarily associated with environmental and technological factors (e.g., camera positioning). In-person assessments allowed for more direct observation of form and effort, indicating the need for strict adherence to standardized protocols. These findings support the use of virtual assessment tools as a valid alternative to in-person testing and highlight their potential to expand access to health and fitness monitoring through flexible and accessible assessment methods. Future research should further explore the validity of virtual fitness assessments under varied testing conditions and implementation settings and with other exercises.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Sanders, Diana	Morris, Sheena	Reflection on Self-Performance Using Video Recordings View Full Text Abstract Text This project evaluated the impact of integrating video recordings of self-performance for self-assessment and reflection, alongside traditional training methods, on clinical anxiety, confidence, procedural familiarity, and readiness for endotracheal intubation among first-year student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs) at the University of South Carolina (USC) before their first intubation in a clinical environment. A quasi-experimental study with a nonequivalent control group design was utilized. First-year SRNAs (n = 24) completed a pre-survey to establish baseline data. A subset (n = 9) participated in an intervention involving a video-recorded intubation simulation, followed by a video review for self-assessment and reflection. Post-surveys were completed by the remaining participants (n = 23). The results were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U-test. The intervention group demonstrated higher median scores across five of six survey items compared to the non-intervention group, with statistically significant differences in four items (p < 0.05). The most notable differences were observed in participants’ ability to identify areas for improvement, confidence, and perceived preparedness. These findings suggest that integrating reflective video review early into clinical training can enhance SRNA self-efficacy and competence. Future research should continue exploring the role of reflective practice in clinical skill development and stress management. Ultimately, this project may benefit nurse anesthetist education by fostering more competent providers and safer patient care. Keywords: student registered nurse anesthetist (SRNA), simulation-based education, endotracheal intubation, video self-assessment, clinical preparedness	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Villafane, Diego	Velazquez, Kandy	Alterations in Heart Mass During Cancer Cachexia: Evidence from the ApcMin/+ Mouse Model View Full Text Abstract Text Cancer profoundly affects the cardiovascular system, leading to changes in cardiac muscle mass. The heart may weigh less than normal in a state of cardiac cachexia, whereas chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity can increase heart weight due through dilated cardiomyopathy. Additionally, left ventricular hypertrophy may rise as a compensatory response to anemia and hypoxia. To investigate these possibilities, we examined cardiac changes in adult C57BL/6J (wildtype) and ApcMin/+ (cancer) mice of both sexes. Body weight and heart mass were measured to assess the relationship between cancer progression and cardiovascular alterations. We found that colorectal cancer mice exhibited significantly increased heart mass, which correlates with decreased body weight. This heart enlargement is likely driven by pronounced anemia observed in advanced cancer cachexia. Future experiments will evaluate cardiac function in these mice, as we hypothesize that increased cardiac workload is necessary to maintain oxygen delivery. Ultimately, we aim to determine whether improving heart functioning or treating anemia can mitigate the severity of cancer cachexia.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Cruz, Ethan	Subrahmanyam, Bulusu	Dissecting the Ocean Fronts of the Gulf of Mexico with Gaussian Mixture Modeling and Satellite Observations View Full Text Abstract Text This study advances the detection of ocean fronts in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) by comparing traditional front detection algorithms with a machine learning model. Specifically, we evaluate the performance of three widely used methods, Canny Edge Detection (referred to as Canny), the Cayula-Cornillon Algorithm (referred to as CCA), and the Belkin-O’Reilly Algorithm (referred to as BOA), against a machine learning–based Gaussian Mixture Model (referred to as GMM). These methods are applied to a suite of satellite-derived oceanographic variables, including Sea Surface Temperature (SST), Sea Surface Salinity (SSS), Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a), and Absolute Dynamic Topography (ADT). The algorithms are tested through case studies capturing a range of oceanographic conditions, including seasonal variations, flood and drought events, and different phases of the Loop Current. The GMM approach offers a statistical, unsupervised alternative to traditional gradient- and histogram-based methods. Furthermore, GMM's multivariate option allows for year-round identification of the Gulf's bodies of water. Surface temperature and chlorophyll-a trends for the unique waters in the gulf are provided from the multivariate GMM.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Short, Abigail Sostak, Marcus	Dubinsky, Stanley	The Wordification Project View Full Text Abstract Text In the U.S., less than one-third of K-8 students are proficient readers. While improved spelling skills help to improve reading, quality spelling instruction is not readily available. Many spelling programs rely on memory-based instruction, which is ineffective for a wide range of students, particularly those who speak nonstandard dialects or are nonnative English speakers. Teachers often lack the time and resources to provide individualized instruction, and private tutoring is extremely expensive, therefore making extra help inaccessible to students in underprivileged areas. Wordification is an online learning tool designed to provide K-3 students with individualized, interactive spelling instruction through gameplay. The platform includes AI-generated dialect enhancements, allowing students to hear words in a voice that reflects familiar pronunciation patterns, including those of their teacher, and targets the spelling errors that learners are most likely to make. This approach aims to help students make better connections between pronunciation and spelling. In addition to the auditory elements of Wordification, Wordification also utilizes a friendly avatar, Tippi the Parrot, to inspire the students as they follow along with the different lessons. When fully developed, teachers will be able to use Wordification in their classes to create individualized instruction activities for their students targeting their specific challenges, and students will be able to use it outside the classroom. The platform will monitor students' progress and adjust instruction accordingly. The tool seeks to be accessible, affordable, and particularly effective in under-resourced schools, where individualized instruction, classroom assistants, and learning intervention resources are wanted. Wordification has the potential to improve literacy outcomes to students underrepresented by existing instructional models.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Merklein, Maile	Golonka, Annette	Effectiveness of Hand Sanitizers View Full Text Abstract Text The purpose of this experiment was to compare the effectiveness of common hand sanitizers against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria using the disk diffusion method. More specifically, I examined whether Equate brand hand sanitizer or Bath and Body Works PocketBac produced a larger zone of inhibition against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (gram-negative) than against Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive). 95% ethanol was used as a control to base and evaluate the relative efficacy of the different antiseptics. Small disks saturated with Equate hand sanitizer (65% ethyl alcohol), PocketBac hand sanitizer (71% ethyl alcohol), or 95% ethanol were placed on agar plates coated with either S. aureus or P. aeruginosa and incubated for one week at room temperature. Zones of inhibition were then measured in millimeters and averaged. Results showed that both antiseptic brands and the control produced larger zones of inhibition on P. aeruginosa than S. aureus, with an average difference of 2.2 mm. The mean zone of inhibition for P. aeruginosa was 7.1 mm, compared to 4.9 mm for S. aureus. Ethanol was the most effective agent overall, then followed by Equate hand sanitizer, and the least effective was the PocketBac. These results suggest that bacterial cell wall structure does influence antiseptic effectiveness. Additionally, having a higher alcohol concentration alone does not guarantee greater antimicrobial activity, higher zone of inhibition. Future studies should examine the role of additional sanitizer ingredients on antimicrobial efficacy.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Johnson, Ja'Daiza Boquist, Laura	Kimbrough, Lachean McDaniel, Sarah	Moments that Matter: A Student Nurse Approach to Communication with Patients Living with Dementia View Full Text Abstract Text The goal of this project is to identify and implement communication strategies for nursing students to improve interactions with patients with dementia in various healthcare facilities. Utilizing this research to create a toolkit to support nursing students in reducing patient agitation, building trust, and enhancing the emotional well-being of those experiencing cognitive decline. Effective communication is essential for providing safe and compassionate care, especially for patients with cognitive decline. As cognitive impairment rates rise, it is essential that nurses and nursing students learn evidence-based communication strategies that promote collaborative care (Wu et al, 2020). By teaching nursing students different communication techniques early, we can increase their competence, improving care quality in clinical settings. With this project, we want to create an effective, practical guide to facilitate communication with patients with dementia. This guide will help nursing students and staff understand each patient's unique communication needs and apply appropriate verbal and non-verbal techniques in daily practice. Methods to acquire information in support of this research will include interviews with nursing students who worked with patients with dementia during clinical rotation, practicing nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and CNAs to gather insights and experiences. Additionally, utilizing credible journals, articles, and resources to support the research. Questions that will be addressed include: Did the patient understand and follow commands? Did you notice the patient had a hard time trying to respond (couldn't find the right words)? Were you told that the patient had dementia by any staff before you began working with them?	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Sojo, Katherine	Hatchett, Andrew	The Association Between Body Composition, Dietary Habits, And Their Influence On Anxiety And Depression In College Students. View Full Text Abstract Text This research focuses on how specific components of body composition, such as body fat percentage, muscle mass, and a 3d sculpted body model interact with dietary patterns like high-sugar or nutrient-dense diets in relation to anxiety and depression in college students. The relationship between body composition, nutritional habits, and mental health in college students has gained interest due to rising concerns over anxiety and depression in this population. Specifically, how there has been research shown that over 10% of college students have been diagnosed with anxiety and depression. Body composition, including higher body fat percentages and lower muscle mass, has been associated with negative self-image and increased mental health challenges. Diets high in processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats have been associated with an increased risk of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. These types of diets can lead to inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and deficiencies in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, all of which are vital for brain health and emotional regulation (Owen et al 2017). Body composition, particularly excess body fat or low muscle mass, has been linked to inflammation and hormonal imbalances, which can contribute to mood disorders like anxiety and depression.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Samuel, Madison	Tucker, Curisa Davis, Stephanie Scott, Jewel	Unheard and Unseen: How Provider, Social, and Structural Factors Shape Diagnosis and Recovery From Peripartum Cardiomyopathy View Full Text Abstract Text Background Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare but life-threatening form of heart failure occurring in late pregnancy or up to five months postpartum and contributes to nearly one-third of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and edema often overlap with normal postpartum recovery, leading to misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, and preventable morbidity. Purpose This study explored the lived experiences of women diagnosed with PPCM and examined how social determinants of health (SDOH) influenced symptom recognition, diagnosis, access to care, recovery, and long-term well-being. Methods Semi-structured virtual interviews were conducted with a national sample of 20 women diagnosed with PPCM in Fall 2025. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis guided by an equity-oriented lens. Results Mean participant age was 33.1 years, 35% of participants identified as Black and 65% identified as White. Most participants were diagnosed postpartum (93%). Five preliminary themes emerged: (1) symptom dismissal and misdiagnosis, with early symptoms attributed to routine postpartum recovery or preeclampsia; (2) limited provider awareness of PPCM, particularly in rural settings; (3) structural and geographic barriers, including transportation challenges, fragmented follow-up, and insurance limitations; (4) emotional trauma and interrupted maternal experiences, including fear of death, delayed bonding, and psychological distress; and (5) financial and caregiving strain related to medical costs and maternal role disruption. Conclusions/Implications PPCM survivors experience diagnostic delays and prolonged recovery shaped by social determinants of health, including geographic isolation, insurance barriers, and fragmented postpartum care. These findings highlight how structural inequities delay diagnosis and exacerbate emotional and financial burden. Results underscore the need for equity-informed provider education and postpartum care pathways that integrate social and structural context. Centering survivor perspectives informs nursing research priorities to reduce diagnostic dismissal and address long-term psychosocial needs among marginalized postpartum populations.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
McLaughlin, Graham	Hollis, Brian	The phylogeography of the Galápagos carpenter bee revealed through whole genome resequencing View Full Text Abstract Text Since the seminal work of Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace, oceanic archipelagos have served as natural laboratories for understanding patterns and processes of biological diversification. Owing to their relative ecological simplicity compared to continental systems, islands continue to provide powerful frameworks for testing fundamental principles in ecology and evolutionary biology. This simplified biotic landscape, combined with advances in genomic sequencing, now allows unprecedented resolution of the evolutionary histories of island lineages. At the same time, developments in geology, climatology, and oceanography are revealing that island systems, particularly over the last million years, have far more dynamic geological histories than previously appreciated. These insights challenge traditional models of island evolution and underscore the need to revisit long-standing assumptions about diversification in insular systems. The Galápagos Archipelago (GA), a geologically young system, has undergone extensive reshaping of its geographic footprint over its lifetime due to a combination of volcanism, plate tectonic movement, and fluctuations in global sea level. Such processes likely generated repeated episodes of island connectivity and fragmentation, complicating evolutionary inferences drawn from strictly bifurcating phylogenetic trees. Rather than simple branching patterns, the evolutionary histories of Galápagos lineages may be better represented by reticulate, web-like relationships shaped by recurrent gene flow and secondary contact. Here, we address this complexity by reconstructing the evolutionary history of the Galápagos carpenter bee using genome-scale data. We evaluate alternative hypotheses of diversification, explicitly testing for signals of reticulation and historical connectivity across islands. By integrating genomic and geological perspectives, our study moves toward a more dynamic and realistic framework for understanding evolution in the Galápagos and oceanic archipelagos more broadly.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Congdon, Molly	Baker, Pieter Harrison, Sayward Mohona, Tahrima	Longtiudinal Outcomes of Opioid Use Disorder View Full Text Abstract Text The opioid use disorder (OUD) crisis is persistent and has had a devastating impact on Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Driven by the misuse of prescription opioids, heroin, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Medication-assisted treatment alongside buprenorphine is an intervention shown to reduce illicit opioid use and improve retention. However, real world outcomes are more often than not, heavily influenced by social, clinical, and environmental factors. This retrospective study evaluates long-term effects on OUD with Suboxone treatment among adults with OUD. Electronic medical records or EMR’s from Amazing Charts were reviewed for 100 adults ages 18 and older who started or continued MOUD treatment at Coastal Wellness between April 2024 and May 2025. Treatment retention was assessed in quarters of 90 days. Secondary outcomes included changes in illicit opioid use measured by urine drug screens and self-reported incidence of non-fatal overdose events, and OUD-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Demographic and clinical variations such as age, sex, psychiatric comorbidities, treatment adherence, dosages, and participation in therapies were examined as potential predictors of success. Qualitative statistics were used to summarize characteristics, treatment patterns, and clinical outcomes. This study aims to provide insight into the effectiveness of buprenorphine treatment in a community setting and to identify factors associated with consistent treatment involvement and gradually decreased dosages.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Forrester, Ella	Guimaraes, Edena Torres, Myriam	Knowledgeable Births: Advancing Informed Consent in Maternal Healthcare View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Informed consent is both a legal requirement and an ethical cornerstone of healthcare, ensuring that patients understand and voluntarily agree to medical treatments. However, evidence suggests that the informed consent process is often inadequately implemented in maternal healthcare settings, particularly during childbirth. While giving birth, women retain full decision-making capacity but are not consistently provided with sufficient information or support to exercise this right. Contributing factors include ineffective patient–provider communication, limited health literacy, and insufficient access to culturally responsive educational resources. Methods: This study aimed to address gaps in accessible prenatal education by developing an online resource platform, Know Your Birth, designed for pregnant individuals in the United States aged 18 years or older. The platform delivered clear, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based information regarding prenatal care, common medical interventions, and patient rights during childbirth. Two cross-sectional surveys were administered to evaluate user engagement and perceived effectiveness of the platform in improving knowledge and awareness. Results: Survey results demonstrated that participants reported increased understanding of routine prenatal visits, common obstetric procedures, and their legal rights during labor and delivery, including the right to provide or refuse informed consent. Users also indicated that the platform was accessible, easy to navigate, and helpful in preparing them for discussions with healthcare providers. Conclusion: The findings suggest that accessible digital educational interventions may improve comprehension of informed consent and patient rights among reproductive-age populations. Digital tools such as Know Your Birth may serve as scalable strategies to promote patient autonomy and health literacy in maternal healthcare. Future research should assess whether such interventions influence clinical decision-making behaviors and maternal health outcomes. Keywords: Patient autonomy; reproductive health; childbirth; informed consent; health literacy; digital health intervention; maternal health communication	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Noll, Savannah	Saracino, Patrick	The Effect of Starting Status on Hydration in Division I Women’s Soccer Athletes View Full Text Abstract Text Purpose: This study compared pre-competition hydration levels and dehydration during a regular season home match in Division I women's soccer athletes. Methods: Urine samples were collected ≤ 2 h prior to one home match during the regular season. Wearing compression clothing, athletes were instructed to towel off excess sweat before completing a body weight (BW) measurement (InBody H30). Urine samples were analyzed immediately for urine color (UC) and urine specific gravity (USG) using a handheld refractometer (Atago). Starters were defined as athletes with ≥ 45 min play time. Hypohydration was defined as USG ≥ 1.020. UC was compared against a validated urine color chart. BW was remeasured within 30 min post-match, and dehydration was calculated as: Dehydration (% BW) = [(Pre-event BW (kg) – Post-event BW (kg))/Post-event BW(kg)] * 100 Results: Nineteen field players participated in this study (1.66±0.7 m, 62.3±6.8 kg, 22.1±6.9% body fat, 26.8±3.0 kg SMM). There was a trend (p = 0.054) for lower body fat in starters (19.5±5.4%) compared to non-starters (25.6±7.5%). Environmental conditions were 23.3°C, 58% RH. Combined pre-competition USG and UC were 1.011±0.006 and 2.7±1.5, respectively. Athletes lost 1.5±0.8% BW during competition. No athletes arrived to competition in a hypohydrated state. There were no differences for USG (1.012±0.006 vs. 1.010±0.006) or UC (2.6±1.4 vs. 2.8±1.9) between starters and non-starters, respectively. There was a trend (p = 0.06) for greater dehydration in starters (1.8±0.8%) compared to non-starters (1.1±0.7%). Conclusions: In a Division I Women’s Soccer team participating in sports nutrition education, all field players began regular season competition at home in an appropriately hydrated state. Starters trended towards greater BW loss during competition. Accordingly, refueling strategies should be personalized by starting status. Acknowledgments: The USC Upstate Office of Sponsored Awards and Research Support and University of South Carolina Magellan Scholar Program funded this research.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
John, Sarah	Tasseva-Kurktchieva, Mila Fahey, Danielle Rubina, Angelina Ausheva, Ekaterina McMahon, Scout	Russian-English Bilingual Processing of Cognates in Written and Oral Modes View Full Text Abstract Text The present research investigates (i) the effect of the phonological and orthographic overlap on bilingual processing in languages with partially overlapping scripts (Russian and English), and (ii) whether language proficiency affects the interaction between orthography and phonology. We employed a bilingual cognate similarity rating study in the spoken and written modes. Caramazza & Brones (1979), Dijkstra et al. (1999), Sánchez-Casas et al. (1992), among others, have shown that cognates are processed faster than non-cognates across tasks, modalities and bilingual populations. However, most research on cognate facilitation used language pairs with overlapping scripts (Hoshino & Kroll, 2008) and employed almost exclusively the written mode of language presentation (Fahey, 2021), disregarding the potential influence of (a) partially overlapping scripts and (b) mode of presentation on the activation of the orthographic and phonological structures. 24 participants (4 native speakers of English and 20 heritage speakers of Russian) completed a perceived similarity rating study in two blocks: auditory and written. Each block presented 120 English-Russian and Russian-English cognate pairs in randomized, counterbalanced order. Participants indicated similarity on a 7-point Likert scale. Normalized Levenshtein orthographic and phonological distances were used as an independent measure of cognate similarity. We used the AIC values (Vrieze, 2012) in a forward stepwise ordinal logistic regression to determine the best fit model . Results suggested that orthographic and phonological distances both contributed to the perceived similarity of cognates, with the self-reported native language and country of origin also having an effect while mode of presentation and proficiencies had no significant effect on the perceived similarity. In agreement with Fahey (2021), we observe that in auditory presentation, orthographic overlap continues to have an influence on bilingual processing of cognates.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Stamper, Natalie	Bulusu, Subrahmanyam	Salinity Dynamics During Marine Heatwaves in the Northwest Atlantic: The Role of Gulf Stream Eddies View Full Text Abstract Text The frequency and intensity of marine heatwaves (MHWs) have increased globally, with pronounced expression in western boundary current systems such as the Gulf Stream (GS), where circulation variability regulates upper-ocean stratification and heat storage. Here, we investigate salinity dynamics during MHWs in the Northwest Atlantic, focusing on their co-evolution with surface and subsurface temperature. Satellite-derived sea surface temperature and salinity observations are combined with high-resolution ocean reanalysis to characterize both horizontal patterns and vertical structure during recent active MHW years. A consistent threshold-based framework is applied to identify anomalous temperature and salinity conditions and to examine their coupling. Using a largest-contour eddy tracking algorithm applied to satellite sea surface height and reanalysis fields, we quantify relationships between GS eddy characteristics, salinity anomalies, and MHW properties. Results show that surface freshening enhances upper-ocean stratification, suppresses vertical mixing, and promotes longer-lived, surface-intensified MHWs. Conversely, saline intrusions linked to GS advection and warm-core rings weaken stratification, enhance vertical exchange, and favor deep-reaching MHWs with subsurface expression. Extreme shelf freshening during 2023 coincided with widespread and persistent MHW conditions, underscoring salinity as a key dynamical control on MHW evolution. Additionally, MHW surface coverage and intensity exhibit an inverse relationship that aligns with the relative occurrence of events within cool-core versus warm-core rings. These findings highlight the central role of salinity variability and GS eddy activity in modulating the structure, intensity, and persistence of MHWs in the Northwest Atlantic.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Yu, Tiffany	Karakchi, Rasha	AutoSlim: Intelligent Automata Graph Optimization for Efficient Acceleration View Full Text Abstract Text Modern high-performance computing increasingly relies on sophisticated graph-based models to represent and manipulate symbolic data. From bioinformatics and cyber security to inference of the AI model and text analytics, these applications often use directed graphs to capture complex dependencies and transitions between states. However, as data sets and patterns grow in complexity and size, graph representations - composed of nodes and edges - also expand dramatically, resulting in excessive memory usage, power consumption, routing congestion, and inefficiencies in hardware acceleration platforms such as Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs). These graphs often contain redundancies, such as rarely activated nodes, unnecessary connections, or expensive computation paths that contribute little to the final output, yet significantly bloat the hardware footprint. To address this challenge, this paper presents AutoSlim, an intelligent automata graph optimization framework that leverages AI-based analysis to reduce the complexity of large-scale pattern matching graphs while maintaining their core functionality. At the heart of AutoSlim is a toolchain developed to generate a synthesizable benchmark suite of graph datasets with detailed annotations. These annotations go beyond standard state transition labels to include per-edge scoring metrics that indicate the frequency, likelihood, or computational cost of traversing a specific edge during matching operations. This scoring information is extracted from prior runs or static graph analysis and is instrumental in identifying nodes and edges with minimal contribution to system functionality. The proposed framework then applies a supervised machine learning model - specifically a Random Forest classifier - trained to identify graph components with low impact. The classifier distinguishes redundant or infrequently used edges and nodes based on various features such as transition frequency, edge weights, and connectivity patterns. Using this predictive capability, AutoSlim prunes the graph structure, removing edges and nodes that are unlikely to impact overall match accuracy or output correctness.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bunge, Jessica	Walters, Wendell	Tracing Marine and Anthropogenic Sulfate in the North Atlantic via Multi-Isotope Analysis of Size-Resolved Aerosols View Full Text Abstract Text In remote marine environments like the Eastern North Atlantic, cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) play a critical role in regulating cloud albedo and radiative forcing. However, uncertainties in the chemical composition and sources of aerosols that contribute to CCN limit our ability to model aerosol–cloud interactions. Here, we present a detailed analysis of the chemical composition of size-segregated aerosol particles collected at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Eastern North Atlantic (ENA) atmospheric observatory on Graciosa Island, Azores. Using a Micro-Orifice Uniform Deposit Impactor (MOUDI), aerosol samples were collected across aerodynamic diameters ranging from 0.056 µm to 18 µm. We quantified the inorganic composition across particle sizes to assess aerosol contributions to CCN. Particular focus was given to sulfate, a dominant component of CCN in marine air masses. We analyzed the stable sulfur (δ34S, δ33S) and oxygen (δ18O, Δ17O) isotope composition of sulfate to apportion sources (marine vs. anthropogenic) and constrain oxidation pathways, including gas-phase reactions, in-cloud processing, and reactions involving sea-salt aerosols. Our results offer new insight into the formation and source attribution of sulfate aerosols in the remote marine boundary layer and their role in modulating CCN populations.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Cook, Ann	Sutton, Suzanne Chappell, Kate Schumacher, Sarah	EVALUATING THE ADVANCE CARE PLANNING PROGRAM IN THE PRIMARY CARE CLINIC AMONG VETERANS View Full Text Abstract Text Advance care planning (ACP) is a fundamental component of patient-centered, value-based care, particularly for Veterans with complex medical conditions and elevated risk of hospitalization and mortality. Although the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has implemented national initiatives to promote ACP, variability persists in documentation practices and integration within primary care settings. This program evaluation assessed the implementation and effectiveness of an ACP initiative within a regional Veterans Affairs (VA) primary care clinic, with the objective of identifying strengths, barriers, and opportunities for quality improvement. A mixed-methods design was employed, including retrospective chart review and an interdisciplinary primary care staff survey. Chart reviews targeted Veterans with a Care Assessment Need (CAN) score of 95 or greater, representing those at highest clinical risk. Electronic health record data were analyzed to evaluate ACP-related documentation, including goals-of-care discussions and life-sustaining treatment documentation. Concurrently, an anonymous REDCap-based survey was administered to primary care staff to assess ACP knowledge, perceptions, workflow integration, and perceived barriers. Findings revealed variability in ACP documentation among high-risk Veterans. Strengths included provider engagement and use of existing ACP tools; however, gaps were identified in documentation consistency, timing of discussions, and standardized workflows for high-risk patients. Survey results demonstrated strong staff support for ACP while highlighting barriers such as limited visit time, role ambiguity, and insufficient training. Opportunities were identified to improve interdisciplinary collaboration and streamline ACP processes within routine care. Overall, this evaluation identified both facilitators and areas for improvement in ACP delivery. Recommendations focused on workflow standardization, targeted staff education, and proactive identification of high-risk Veterans to enhance ACP implementation and promote goal-concordant care.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Raganschmalz, Noah Brown, James	Quarles-Moore, Kathy	Integrating a Medicinal Garden into Compounding Education: Advancing Sustainability and Student Wellbeing View Full Text Abstract Text Here is a concise version under 300 words total with clearer flow and professional tone while preserving your key points. Purpose Medicinal gardens date back to the 5th century BCE, including those of Hippocrates and Theophrastus, yet live botanical cultivation remains limited in pharmacy education. Establishing a medicinal garden within an academic setting helps bridge history, education, and student wellness. The USC College of Pharmacy has dedicated space for cultivating medicinal plants to enhance understanding of natural and functional medicine while promoting sustainability and mental well-being among students. Methods Student involvement expanded this year through active recruitment of individuals interested in growing and maintaining plants within the garden. Six students currently participate in daily operations, while the faculty facilitator supports planting and procurement of materials. Operational procedures are being developed to support future extraction activities. The garden will also expand with additional hardscaping and trial plants, including chili peppers and fennel. Upon harvest, plant materials will be extracted and infused into carrier oils to support educational applications. Results The medicinal herb garden has demonstrated encouraging early success, with plants such as lavender, tulsi basil, and coneflower thriving and producing harvests throughout the growing season. Students are engaging with the garden as a hands-on learning environment and a welcoming space that supports well-being and community. These outcomes highlight the garden’s potential to enhance pharmacy education while fostering connection, sustainability, and experiential learning.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Livingston, Sarah	Plotner, Anthony	Beyond Peer Mentoring: Social Engagement Coaching as Foundational Support in Inclusive Postsecondary Education View Full Text Abstract Text The number of inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs across the United States has grown considerably in recent decades, driven by advocacy efforts and federal policy initiatives, effectively increasing access to college opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities (ID). While IPSE programs typically focus on academic, employment, and self-determination skills, the essential area of social engagement often receives less attention. Current research emphasizes why meaningful social participation promotes a sense of belonging, improved student well-being, and is vital to self-esteem. However, students with ID often enter college with limited experience initiating conversations, forming reciprocal friendships, or navigating complex social situations. Given this, we argue for a shift from opportunity-focused to skills-focused supports by distinguishing informal peer mentorship from structured social engagement coaching (SEC). We propose that trained social engagement coaches serve as intentional facilitators of communication, confidence, autonomy, and long-term social agency. In defining the specific roles of peer mentor and social engagement coach positions, IPSE programs can foster authentic and sustainable social connections between students and peers which are essential for reciprocal relationships and true campus and community inclusion.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Ganesh Babu, Shyam	Pena, Marj Mao, Qiuyi Byrd Fort, Valerie	Early Life Exposure to Antibiotics and Risk for Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer View Full Text Abstract Text The incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), which is colorectal cancer in patients fifty years of age, has steadily increased since the 1980s, rising from 6% to 11% over two decades, and predicted to increase by 140% in 2032. It is now the leading cause of cancer related deaths in patients under 50 years of age, and the underlying causes are poorly understood. In this study I hypothesized that early life exposure to commonly prescribed pediatric antibiotics can disrupt the gut microbiota, causing dysbiosis that leads to chronic inflammation thereby increasing the risk for developing EOCRC. We used a mouse model of EOCRC to determine the effect of multiple exposures to antibiotics on tumor development and found that certain classes of antibiotics promote the growth of pathogenic bacteria that cause inflammation and promote increased tumor burden in the distal rectum upon exposure to azoxymethane, a carcinogen. We then examine the impact of probiotics or fecal microbiome transplantation to rebuild the gut microbiota after antibiotic exposure on mitigating the risk of developing EOCRC. These studies will assess the effects of antibiotics early in life of gut microbiome composition and their impact on risk of developing EOCRC later in life. The results can lead to development of simple yet novel strategies to identify individuals who are at risk of developing EOCRC and minimize long-term antibiotic-associated cancer risk in pediatric populations.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Marshall, David	Wright, Pamela	Evaluation of Inter-method Reliability between Online and In-person Fitness Assessments among Physically Inactive Adults View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Online assessments are common. However, scarce research compares the accuracy of online assessments to in-person assessments. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability of an online versus in-person fitness assessment . Methods: Participants (N=20) were recruited using flyers. Participants completed an online fitness assessment followed by an in-person fitness assessment 2-10 days later. Reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients and Bland-Altman plots. Results: Participants were 30.8(±20.2) years, mostly female (76.5%), and diverse in race/ethnicity with a body mass index of 23.4kg/m2 (±3.8). Statistically significant intraclass correlation coefficients were excellent for waist circumference (0.93), hip circumference (0.94), and push-up test (0.94) and good for static squat test (0.89) and curl up test (0.76). Conclusion: The online fitness assessment revealed high reliability when compared to an in-person fitness assessment.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hasty, Jazmine	Carlson, Ryan	Latent Class Growth Analysis of Relationship Conflict for Couples Participating in a Randomized Controlled Trial of Relationship Education View Full Text Abstract Text The study sought to identify subgroups of low-income couples regarding the trajectory of relational conflict over time and examined how predictors were associated with their subgroup membership. Predictors involved demographic characteristics (i.e., gender, age, marital status, income, and employment) and baseline relational factors (i.e., relationship satisfaction, communication skills, relationship hope, and economic strain), which were explored to comprehend target areas of the intervention. Participants comprised low-income couples who were randomly assigned to one of two relationship education (RE) formats: an in-person workshop or an asynchronous online program across the three time points (i.e., baseline, one-month follow-up, and six-month follow-up). Based on the latent class growth analysis, three subgroups pertaining to relational conflict were identified. That is, the majority of participants were classified into Low-Stable Relational Conflict, followed by Moderate-Decreasing Relational Conflict, and lastly High-Increasing Relational Conflict. Findings indicate a stable change in relational conflict over time among the Low-Stable group, a moderate decrease in conflict over time among the Moderate-Decreasing group, and a considerable increase in conflict among the High-Increasing group. Additionally, couples who reported experiencing negative communication, increased economic strain, lower relationship hope, or greater individual stress were more likely to belong to the moderate decreasing or high-increasing subgroups than the low-stable group. Contrarily, couples who engage in positive communication and increased relationship satisfaction were more likely to belong to the low-stable subgroup. This implies that short-term RE may be less effective for couples experiencing the lowest or highest relational conflict, prior to program enrollment.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Spires, Savanna	Hatchett, Andrew	The Effect of Upper and Lower Extremity Power on Countermovement Jump Performance With Arm Swing and Without View Full Text Abstract Text The countermovement jump (CMJ) is a common measure of lower-body power and neuromuscular performance. Incorporating an arm swing (AS) enhances CMJ outcomes, yet the contributions of anthropometrics, body composition (BC), and muscular power to performance are not fully understood in recreationally active adults. This study examined these factors in CMJ trials with and without AS. Thirty adults (15 males, 15 females; 18–25 years) performed CMJs on a force plate. Upper-body power was assessed via an 8 kg medicine ball throw, and lower-body power using a maximal cycling-based power test. Three-dimensional body scanning captured anthropometric data. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and hierarchical multiple regressions were conducted for the total sample and by sex. Jump height and peak power were significantly higher with AS than without (p < .001). Strong positive correlations were observed among jump- and power-related variables (r = .73–.92). Body fat percentage showed moderate-to-strong negative associations with relative peak power, particularly in females. Regression analyses revealed that BC accounted for the largest proportion of variance in AS peak power, whereas upper-body power did not provide additional predictive value beyond anthropometrics and BC. These findings indicate that CMJ performance is primarily influenced by lower-body mechanical capacity and BC, with adiposity consistently reducing relative power output. The results underscore the importance of BC in explosive performance training and support the use of AS-restricted jumps to isolate lower-body power during performance assessments.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Stahle-Smith, Rye	Karakchi, Rasha	Real-time ML-based Defense Against Malicious Payload in Reconfigurable Embedded Systems View Full Text Abstract Text Field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) in reconfigurable systems face escalating security threats from malicious bitstreams capable of causing denial-of-service, data leakage, or covert operations. Traditional detection methods often require source code or netlists, limiting their applicability for real-time protection. We present a supervised machine learning approach that directly analyzes FPGA bitstreams at the binary level, enabling rapid detection without design-level access. Using byte frequency analysis, truncated singular value decomposition (TSVD), and SMOTE balancing, we developed and evaluated multiple classifiers on a dataset of 122 benign and malicious configurations for the Xilinx PYNQ-Z1 board. Random Forest achieved a macro F1-score of 0.97, validating the method’s effectiveness for resource-constrained devices. The final model was deployed on PYNQ for integrated, on-device analysis. During the poster session, we will outline our detection pipeline, dataset preparation process, and performance results, emphasizing the novelty of binary-level analysis and its implications for real-time Trojan detection in embedded systems.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Griffin, Molly	Meyer, Chase Spence, Gina	The Digital Divide: Voter Perceptions in the Age of Social Media View Full Text Abstract Text This thesis examines how social media shapes voter perceptions of candidate ideology and economic issues, and how these perceptions influence electoral decision-making. As digital platforms increasingly serve as primary sources of political information, exposure to negative content and patterns such as doom-scrolling can affect voters’ understanding of political realities. The study explores how social media reinforces preexisting beliefs, amplifies stereotypes, and creates echo chambers that shape both perceptions and choices in elections. Using survey data from US senators collected from the 2020 and 2022 election cycles, the research investigates the mechanisms by which digital media influences voter behavior. It also considers moderating factors, such as age, education, and demographics, that shape how individuals interpret and respond to online political content. The findings aim to provide insights into the intersection of technology, information processing, and electoral behavior, highlighting the broader implications of digital media on democratic participation. By illuminating how social media can subtly influence voter cognition and decision-making, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of political communication in the digital age and informs strategies to promote informed and equitable civic engagement.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lee, Pamela	Bulusu, Subrahmanyam	Loop Current Frontal Eddies (LCFEs) and their Influence on Chlorophyll-a in the Gulf of Mexico View Full Text Abstract Text Loop Current Frontal Eddies (LCFEs) are small, cyclonic eddies that emerge from instabilities in the Loop Current (LC) and can be classified into three primary groups. Traditionally viewed as biological “oases” due to elevated chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) concentrations, LCFEs have been assumed to promote productivity primarily through their cyclonic nature. However, the precise mechanisms driving elevated Chl-a levels within these eddies remain poorly understood. Using a combination of satellite datasets (including absolute dynamic topography and Chl-a concentrations) and a high-resolution (~1 km) Hybrid Coordinate Ocean Model (HYCOM) simulation, we investigate the key drivers of Chl-a variability within the three LCFE groups. We focus on several interacting factors: the phase of the Loop Current (extended vs. retracted), the number and type of LCFEs, Mississippi-Atchafalaya River discharge, and seasonal variability. Our results reveal that seasonal and riverine influences often act in opposition. During winter, low river discharge, strong winds, and reduced stratification enhance vertical nutrient fluxes via mixed-layer instabilities, increasing offshore Chl-a concentrations. In contrast, summer brings higher freshwater and nutrient input from river discharge, but this is counteracted by stronger stratification, which suppresses vertical mixing. These physical and biogeochemical interactions regulate nutrient availability and Chl-a distribution in the GoM. Once formed, LCFEs can advect nutrients and Chl-a both horizontally and vertically through eddy-driven dynamics. Notably, during summer stratification, we are able to define a consistent Chl-a signature for the LC itself. Our findings highlight that the relationship between LCFEs and Chl-a is more nuanced than previously understood. The study underscores the importance of considering LC dynamics, LCFE characteristics, and external forcing (such as seasonality and river discharge) in shaping biogeochemical patterns in the Gulf of Mexico.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Shoemaker, Adrianna	Plotner, Anthony	High School Students in Self-Contained Settings Perceptions on Developing Meaningful Relationships View Full Text Abstract Text IDEA (2004) mandates that all students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) receive transition services related to planning for life after high school. These services include supporting students in identifying and working towards goals related to employment/career development, postsecondary education/training, and adult living and community participation. In principle, transition services should be robust and student-centered (Rowe et al., 2015; Trainor et al., 2020). In practice, however, transition services frequently prioritize compliance with federal and state mandates and procedural requirements over authentic student engagement (Lanuzo-Llanto, 2026). Kucharcyk et al. (2021) interviewed eight adolescents related to their transition planning experiences and found that these adolescents longed for “friendship and social skills supportive of friendship”. There is a growing call among researchers to center the insights and perspectives of the populations they study and, when appropriate, to engage them as collaborative partners in the research process (Mertens 2014; Mertens 2009). Despite these calls, when determining transition priorities for services and research, other stakeholders' views are often prioritized over the student (Pfeiffer et al., 2025). In an effort to bridge this gap, we conducted a survey with 63 high school students in self-contained settings across South Carolina to learn their perceptions on developing meaningful relationships. This survey included questions related to student satisfaction with current relationships, the support they receive in developing these relationships, and relationships in the context of transition planning.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Leeds, Gillian	Lopez Rodriguez, Enrique	Tracing Shock Heating in Mrk1066 with H2 Molecular Gas View Full Text Abstract Text Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) lie in the cores of most large galaxies, and are theorized to regulate galaxy evolution through feedback processes. Low-luminosity AGN (LLAGN) host radio jets that interact with the interstellar medium (ISM), driving shocks that influence the physical conditions and sometimes destroy the surrounding dust. However, several observations have detected dust within shocked regions. While various hypotheses explain why dust survives shocks, constraining dust properties in these environments remains the missing link for accurately modeling AGN feedback. Mid-infrared (MIR) emission from dust grains serves as a powerful diagnostic tool to assess the extent of grain processing, revealing whether dust survives shocks, is partially destroyed, or undergoes significant alterations. Our work analyzes JWST/MRS Cycle 4 observations of MRK1066, a nearby radio-selected LLAGN with evidence of a radio jet impacting the host galaxy. These observations span a wide range of molecular hydrogen (H2) allowing us to study the potential survival of dust in shocks. Molecular H2 dust is formed prior to any other dust, and thus its survival is of critical interest. I estimate H2 line intensities across the central kpc of the galaxy using Gaussian fitting. I calculated the moments of these lines, and plotted maps of effective temperatures, kinematic moments, and morphologies. Using these maps and data, I am able to trace warm H2 molecular gas along the radio jet and shocks to present significant findings. These tracings help compare the jet and torus shapes in order to understand the origins of this dust, and what survives. I will present a multi-wavelength H2 atomic map, velocity fields, velocity dispersions, maps of effective temperatures across the central pixels, and a comparison of dust continuum and ionization maps.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Hampton, Emma	Kim, Jung-Hwan	How Social Media Influencers Persuade Consumers: Promotional Tactics in Consumer Behavior View Full Text Abstract Text Social media influencers (SMIs), defined as experts or social connectors who influence others’ attitudes toward products and brands (Fakhreddin and Foroudi, 2021), play a significant role in product promotion. Currently, about 5.24 billion people worldwide use social media, representing approximately 96% of internet users (Statista, 2025). Many consumers now visit influencers’ pages to seek product information and build connections (Hassan et al., 2021). As reliance on SMIs grows, many retailers collaborate with them to promote products (Kenan, 2024). However, a notable drawback is that influencers often prioritize revenue generation without fully understanding the products or brands they promote (Duffek et al., 2025). Retailers often depend on influencers without critically evaluating the promotional tactics being used. These practices can result in compulsive buying behaviors and distorted brand perceptions caused by misleading or unethical promotions (Roach, 2024). As digital natives who have never lived without smartphones, Gen Z consumers frequently rely on social media for product information and often base purchase decisions on SMIs’ recommendations (Schaefer, 2025). TikTok is reported to be their preferred platform for product discovery, followed by Instagram (eMarketer, 2025). Given Gen Z’s reliance on social media for product reviews, they are particularly vulnerable to being swayed by SMIs,sometimes resulting in compulsive purchasing behaviors. Therefore, this study seeks to examine the promotional tactics SMIs use to persuade Gen Z consumers to purchase products and to explore how they perceive these tactics in relation to their decision-making processes.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Moholkar, Paige	Dyer, Amanda	The Implementation of Bright Light Therapy among Survivors of Cancer: A Scoping Review View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Cancer survivors have significantly higher rates of sleep disturbances that can persist long after treatment ends. While systematic bright light therapy (BLT) has been shown to improve sleep quality in cancer survivors, research remains limited. This scoping review evaluates current research and identifies knowledge gaps to better understand the relationships between cancer survivors and sleep disturbances. Methods: A search was conducted across CINAHL, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and Scopus for studies implementing BLT to improve sleep disturbances in cancer survivors. Inclusion criteria: full text articles, written in English, adult (18 years or older) survivors of any cancer, completed studies, sleep measurement, bright light intervention. Screening was managed via Covidence. Results: Of the 203 studies imported for screening, 6 were included. Reasons for exclusion included: 84 duplicates, 114 lacked full text, 8 incomplete studies, 5 wrong intervention, and 3 wrong patient population. Additional articles (n=4) were included from reference review of included articles, giving a total of 10 articles included for review. Data extracted included study design, cancer type, sample, intervention techniques, measurement tools, and findings. Interventions tested either the use of bright white light (n=5) or the use of blue green light (n=5) compared to a dim red light control group. Few studies have examined BLT on sleep quality in adult cancer survivors. Conclusions: Sleep disturbances negatively affect many cancer survivors, and BLT has been found to help. Significant positive improvements in sleep quality, quality of life, fatigue and insomnia severity were found by utilizing bright light among cancer survivors. Conflicting results were found with improvements in both intervention (BLT) and control (DRL) groups. Future studies should focus on differentiating the effects of BLT and DRL utilizing a no-light therapy control group with larger sample sizes, longer study duration, and more variety in cancer populations.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Carroll, Lachlan	Chhetri, Sher	Testing Statistical Significance and Interpretation of Air Passenger Transportation Demand and Air Freight Transport Prediction for Time Series Models. View Full Text Abstract Text Air transportation is a fundamental driver of economic growth, global connectivity, and societal well-being, supporting trade, tourism, and employment across national and international economies. In Canada alone, the transportation sector accounts for approximately 633,000 jobs and contributes nearly USD 49 billion to the national economy, representing about 3.2% of gross domestic product. Given the strategic importance of accurate demand forecasting in air transportation, this study evaluates the statistical and predictive performance of time-series models: Autoregressive (AR), Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA), Mixed Data Sampling (MIDAS), and Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA), for forecasting air passenger and air freight transport demand. The empirical results indicate statistically significant differences in variance across forecasting models for both air passenger and air freight datasets, rejecting the assumption of equality in several cases. We also presented the mean squared errors of the models and compared them pairwise. This study provides practical guidance for researchers and policymakers in selecting robust and interpretable time-series forecasting models for air transportation, particularly when working with rare, complex, or machine-learning-generated datasets. From a supply chain and logistics perspective, the findings contribute to improved capacity planning, network design, and resilience assessment by clarifying how different forecasting structures capture demand dynamics across passenger and freight flows. Additionally, the results support evidence-based decision-making in supply chains where air transport plays a critical role in the movement of time-sensitive and high-value goods.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Eichler, Emerson Grieco, Alex	Wilson-King, Dawn Liles, Olivia Leahy, Grace Leech, Connor St. John, Anna Claire	An Overview and Baseline Data of the Linking Exercise for Advancing Daily Stress (LEADS) Management and Resilience in African American Families Trial View Full Text Abstract Text Chronic stressors place African American (AA) adolescents at greater risk for developing chronic diseases. Resilience-based interventions that empower youth to cope with chronic stressors have shown improvements across a broad range of outcomes, however, no previous study has evaluated a family-based resilience plus positive parenting intervention on improving physical activity (PA) in AA families. The purpose of the presentation is to describe the design and methodology of the Linking Exercise for Advancing Daily Stress (LEADS) Management and Resilience NIH trial, for evaluating the efficacy of a family-based intervention to address chronic stressors and promote behavioral skills for increasing PA in overweight AA adolescents; and to provide an overview of the study sample and baseline measures. The LEADS trial uses a randomized group cohort design and involves 330 AA adolescents with a BMI percentile > 70%. The trial tests the efficacy of a 10-week online family-based intervention (vs. health education) and draws from Stress and Coping, Family Systems, and Social Cognitive Theories to integrate components that build coping skills for engaging in PA. A total of 76 participants have enrolled, and, on average, adolescents are 12.9 (SD=1.6) years old with a body mass index (BMI) percentile of 97.9 (SD=3.1), with 50% female participants. On average, caregivers are 42.3 (SD=8.4) years old with a BMI (kg/m2) of 40.8 (SD=11.0), and 99% are female. 41% of our caregivers are married with 72% have had some high school or college education. The primary outcome of the trial is change in minutes of moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) at post-intervention and 6-month follow-up among adolescents. Secondary outcomes include changes in MVPA in caregivers, as well as changes in light PA, diet, family mealtime, BMI, waist circumference, and blood pressure in adolescents and caregivers. This trial will inform best practices for promoting health among AA families.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Garcia-Sanchez, Jeffrey	Nagarkatti, Mitzi Nagarkatti, Prakash	Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol Attenuates Colitis in Mice by Modulating Innate Immune Cell Polarization involving Epigenetic Alterations View Full Text Abstract Text Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by persistent autoinflammation in the colon. While Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is known to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects and reduce hyperinflammation in colitis, this study specifically investigated the impact of Δ8-THC, a less psychoactive analog on colitis. The research focused on how Δ8-THC influences key innate immune cells—macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells—and the specific miRNAs that may mediate these effects. Colitis was induced in C57BL/6 mice using dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). Mice were treated with either a vehicle or 20 mg/kg Δ8-THC administered intraperitoneally every other day for nine days. Euthanasia occurred on day 10, three days after DSS administration ceased and colitis was established. Macroscopic data indicated that Δ8-THC treatment significantly reduced the colitis phenotype, evidenced by less colon shrinkage, decreased weight loss, and improved colonoscopy scores. At a cellular level, Δ8-THC treatment resulted in an overall decrease in myeloid cells and a direct shift in macrophage populations: pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype macrophages decreased, while anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages increased. This phenotypic shift was associated with specific miRNA changes identified through sequencing and IPA analysis. Notably, levels of let-7a-5p, a miRNA known to inhibit both CD86 and TLR4 expression, increased significantly. Targets were verified in silico alignment and qPCR from in vivo colon samples. Together, these findings demonstrate that Δ8-THC treatment alters miRNA expression that promote an anti-inflammatory phenotype in the colon, suggesting therapeutic potential for inflammatory bowel diseases. Also, because Δ8-THC exhibits less psychoactive properties than Δ9-THC, it may be better suited for clinical treatment of inflammatory diseases (Supported by NIH grants P20GM103641, P30GM154631, R01ES030144, and R01AI160896 to PSN and MN).	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Gesmondi, Isabella	Hancock, C. Nathan	Genetic Determinants of Soybean Flower Attractiveness View Full Text Abstract Text Soybeans (Glycine max) were domesticated from its wild ancestor Glycine soja, which is native to Asia. Glycine soja PI 483463 appears to attract more pollinators than the Williams 82 variety of soybeans. This could be due partially to flower color as Williams 82 has white petals and PI 483463 petals are dark purple at the center and a lighter purple towards the blade. The goal of this project is to analyze what gene(s) in the wild ancestor soybean, PI 483463, make it more attractive to pollinators such as honeybees, wasps, etc., by generating an F2 population from an F1 hybrid cross between Williams 82 (female) and the PI 483463 (male). We grew potential F1 seeds and tested if they were hybrids by extracting the DNA from the leaf and using PCR to amplify two loci that differ between Glycine soja and Glycine max. Using this process, we identified two heterozygous plants. We plan to grow the F2 seeds from these plants this summer and phenotype them for flower color and attractiveness to pollinators. Additionally, we will purify the DNA from the F2 population and use PCR genotyping to determine which chromosomes correlate with flower attractiveness. Overall, this project will allow us to estimate how many loci control flower color and pollinator visits in this population.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hicks, Ava	Neils-Strunjas, Jean Karami, Mina	Psychosocial Predictors of Continued Mindful Walking in Aging Adults View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: Mindful walking is a low-cost and accessible intervention that supports well-being in older adults. This study examined whether continued engagement is driven by objective cognitive and physical outcomes or by subjective psychosocial factors. Methods: Participants were aging adults who had previously completed a structured mindful walking intervention. Continued practice was assessed at follow-up using an eight-item continuation questionnaire. Outcome measures included quality of life (WHOQOL), cognitive performance (MoCA), depressive symptoms (GDS), and physical function measures. Dementia-related risk variables, including family history of Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (ADRD) and subjective cognitive concern, were examined in an extended model. Results: In multivariable regression analyses, higher psychological and environmental quality-of-life scores were consistently associated with sustained practice, accounting for 70.8% of the variance in continuation scores. Depressive symptoms were also a positive predictor. When dementia-related risk variables were added, the model explained 75.2% of the variance; family history of ADRD was a significant predictor. Conclusion: Continued engagement in mindful walking among aging adults appears to be driven more by perceived psychosocial benefits than by objective cognitive or physical outcomes. These findings highlight the importance of emotional and environmental factors in sustaining mindfulness-based health behaviors later in life.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Jowers, Cash	Peryshkov, Dmitry	Non-spectator behavior of a neutral phosphine ligand driven by a redox-active boron cluster View Full Text Abstract Text In transition metal chemistry, the choice of ligands surrounding a metal center has been the primary way of changing the steric and electronic properties of the metal complex. These ligands can broadly be classed into two types: innocent and non-innocent, with non-innocent ligands being able to support or fully participate in the transformations of substrates. Of particular interest to this topic are phosphines, which, when constrained, can act as ambiphillic non-spectator ligands. Similarly, phosphines can work in concert with electron-deficient carborane clusters to facilitate unique ambiphillic reactivity at metal centers. We report the synthesis of a novel dicarboranyl triphosphine ligand and its corresponding copper(I) complex. This complex exhibits unexpected reactivity in which nucleophilic chloride and azide anions preferentially bind to the ambiphillic phosphine over the cationic metal center. This results in the reductive opening of the carborane cluster; a process that was found to be reversible in the case of the chloride ion. With the change in the coordination environment of the metal, we aim to discover new reaction pathways and explore the broader applications of this type of metal-ligand cooperativity in the field of catalysis.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Eubanks, Brayden	Wilson, Dawn Eichler, Emerson Straley, Lacie Schuchert, Leah Williams, Camelia Wood, Vashti	Results of Evaluating Program Implementation of the Linking Exercise for Advancing Daily Stress (LEADS) Management and Resilience Intervention in African American Families View Full Text Abstract Text The purpose of this study was to evaluate program implementation of the Linking Exercise for Advancing Daily Stress (LEADS) Management and Resilience NIH Trial in African American families. Process evaluation is being utilized, that is, 1) summative - to document the implementation of the intervention; and 2) formative – to provide guidance for adjusting program during delivery. The intervention is based on essential elements derived from Stress and Coping, Family Systems, and Cognitive Behavioral theories. Each session includes five components: 1) family capacity building of protective factors, 2) improving resilience, 3) strengthening family values/support, 4) a 15-minute PA session, and 5) goal-setting skills. Components of the LEADS intervention, including content delivery, are used to assess “complete” delivery or dose of the program. The essential elements for the LEADS intervention guide the assessment of “acceptable” delivery or program fidelity at individual, group, and facilitator levels. Trained process evaluation staff conducted evaluations of all videotaped group sessions, which used a checklist to document dose and fidelity. A priori goals are to achieve on average, 75% dose, and on average, greater than 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) fidelity scores. For the first year of the trial, on average 96% of dose was delivered and fidelity on average was 3.7 (SD=0.08) on a 4-point scale. Attendance was also monitored during the 10-week group-based intervention and comparison programs, with an a priori goal of averaging > 75% of participants in attendance each week. If participants missed a group session, trained staff delivered makeup sessions. On average for 10-week program, attendance rates were high for both groups (Intervention: M=90% with makeups; Comparison program: M=90% with makeups). Overall, the LEADS program implementation met the apriori goals for year one of the trial and provides a framework for future health promotion intervention trials.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
McGuff, Madeline Eagles, Amani	Wilson, Dawn Ferrara, Marisa Thompson, Khalon Gantt, Miriam White, Taylor	Associations of Perceived Stress, Adaptive, and Maladaptive Coping on Quality of Family Mealtime in African American Adolescents and their Parents View Full Text Abstract Text African Americans (AA) have the high rates of chronic stress exposure (e.g., neighborhood disorder, financial strain). Furthermore, stress has been associated with less nutritious food intake, as individuals who report higher perceived stress and are more likely to consume high-caloric, energy dense foods. Few studies have, however, focused on understanding how stress and coping relate to quality of family mealtime in AA adolescents. The current study investigated how perceived stress, adaptive coping (social support) and maladaptive coping (behavioral disengagement), were associated with quality of family mealtime in AA adolescents and their parents. AA dyads (adolescent, parent) participated (N=49) in the study. The mean age of adolescents was 13.8 years (SD=1.9), and the mean age of parents was 45.7 years (SD=10.0). Validated self-report measures assessed perceived stress and coping (behavioral disengagement, emotional support, and tangible support) as well as quality of family mealtime. Results showed a significant negative association between parent stress and quality of family mealtime, (r = -0.41, p<0.01), indicating that as perceived stress decreased family mealtime quality increased. For adolescents, there was a positive correlation between maladaptive coping (behavioral disengagement) and perceived stress (r = 0.46, p<0.01) indicating that as maladaptive coping increased, perceived stressed also increased. Only adaptive coping strategies (emotional and tangible support) were significantly associated with family mealtime. Specifically, there was positive association between perceived emotional support and quality of family mealtime in adolescents, (r=0.37, p<0.05), indicating that as perceived emotional support increased perceptions of quality of mealtime increased. A significant positive association between perceived tangible support and quality of family mealtime in adolescents, (r=0.40, p<0.05) also demonstrated that as perceived tangible support increased perceptions of quality of family mealtime also increased. These results provide new insights into understanding the role of stress and adaptive coping on dietary outcomes in AA adolescents and their parents.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Joy, Eliza	Harrison, Sayward	Harm Reduction Knowledge and Attitudes among HIV Campus Ambassadors in South Carolina View Full Text Abstract Text Adolescents and emerging adults are prioritized by the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative, which aims to reduce new HIV infections in the United States (US) by 90% by 2030. The South is disproportionately affected by HIV. The US HIV epidemic remains intertwined with injection drug use, which accounted for ~7% of new HIV diagnoses in 2022. Harm Reduction strategies (e.g., syringe service programs) are effective in reducing HIV transmission. However, the extent that Harm Reduction is understood by individuals working to prevent HIV among youth in the South is unknown. This qualitative study examined knowledge and perceptions of Harm Reduction among a statewide cohort of ‘HIV Campus Ambassadors’. Ambassadors were employed through the EHE initiative to deliver HIV prevention education and tools at colleges/universities across South Carolina. Focus groups were conducted with campus ambassadors (n=16) to explore their perspectives on Harm Reduction and how HIV/STI prevention could be integrated with Harm Reduction services. Focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed, and checked for accuracy. Team-based rapid qualitative analysis was used to identify themes. Findings indicated varied perceptions on Harm Reduction among HIV campus ambassadors. While some viewed it as an approach to promoting safety, others expressed concerns about enabling drug use. Misconceptions also emerged, including the belief that Harm Reduction prevents drug use rather than reduces associated risks. Ambassadors reported widespread “normalized” drug use on their college and university campuses, often perceived as “nothing serious”. Ambassadors recognized potential benefits of integrating HIV/STI and Harm Reduction services (e.g., increased access to resources for young people who use drugs) and proposed ways to address barriers to accessing services (e.g., reducing stigma, expanding educational efforts). Findings highlight opportunities to expand access to Harm Reduction services on college/university campuses in South Carolina to address intersecting risks related to HIV and drug use.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Borders, Rebecca Tackeberry, Kyle	Souza, Jefferson	Does a student-led seminar on EF improve SRNA comfortability with cardiac POCUS? View Full Text Abstract Text This quasi-experimental study evaluated the impact of a student-led seminar on assessing ejection fraction (EF) with point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) among Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs). Despite the established clinical utility of POCUS in anesthesia, it remains underutilized in anesthesia practice due to limited training opportunities. A total of 20 Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) students from the University of South Carolina (USC) Class of 2027 participated in this study. Participants completed a pre-test and post-test survey assessing their comfort levels with cardiac POCUS using a Likert-type scale. The intervention consisted of didactic and hands-on training developed using the Cognitive Load Theory and Lewin’s Change Model Frameworks. Prior to project implementation, Institutional Review Board review was sought. The Institutional Review Board determined that the project did not meet the definition of human subjects research and therefore waived the requirement for formal approval. Statistically significant improvements in comfort levels were observed across all measured items following the intervention. The findings of this project support the feasibility and efficacy of student-led cardiac POCUS training for the SRNA. Lastly, this project addresses a notable gap in SRNA education and suggests that such interventions may enhance clinical readiness and promote broader POCUS integration into anesthesia practice.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Hamlin, Madison	Hancock, C. Nathan	Developing mPing-based Constructs for Transposase Assisted Target Site Integration View Full Text Abstract Text CRISPR has been developed into an effective genome editing technology for modifying or knocking out genes. However, CRISPR alone has its limitations and lacks the ability to target transgenes to specific locations within the genome. The transposase assisted target site integration (TATSI) system has been developed to target the mPing transposable element to a specific location in the genome using the Pong transposases proteins (ORF1 and TPase) along with Cas9 and a guide RNA. This technology uses mPing as a vehicle to carry genetic cargoes, such as promoter sequences or an entire gene, to specific locations which can modify plant gene expression and function. Binary plasmids suitable for testing targeted insertion into the Arabidopsis GL1 gene were made containing Cas9 and the AtGL1 gRNA. Arabidopsis plants were transformed using the floral dip method, and the resulting seeds were screened for Red Florescence Protein (RFP) expression before planting. We observed the absence of trichomes indicating that the CRISPR components were functioning, but there was no evidence of excision or insertion of the mPing element. This suggested that the Pong ORF1 and TPase proteins were not being expressed properly. We are now testing constructs with ORF1 and TPase linked together using a T2A peptide sequence to see if this induces mPing transposition better than the independent genes tested previously. If successful, these plasmids will allow us to test if the use of the hyperactive version of mPing and will improve the efficiency of targeted insertion.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Barnick, Hope	Fraley, Amy	Impact of Hydration Status on Short-Term Memory, Attention, Spatial Ability, and Executive Functioning in a U.S. Senior Military College View Full Text Abstract Text Context: Prior hydration research has focused on large military bases or western U.S. climates, which differ from the southeastern region. Hydration status influences cognitive functions such as memory, attention, spatial ability, and executive functioning. Because dehydration is common during strenuous training in hot, humid conditions, this study examined whether military-style training results in measurable declines in cognitive function among trainees. Methods: This study was conducted during a preparatory training week at a senior military college in the southeastern United States to simulate the physical demands of military training. Immediately after the morning training session, participants completed a paper-adapted CERAD Word List Recall Task (CWL) followed by the Trail Making Test (TMT) Parts A and B. Participants self-reported completion times using timers placed at each end of the testing table. Prior to morning training, urine samples were collected, and urine specific gravity was measured using a refractometer. Results: Participants (18–19 years; 35 males, 3 females) were analyzed after removing outliers (±2 SD). TMT Part A performance differed significantly between hydration conditions (dehydrated: 15.15±3.34 s vs. hydrated: 19.47±6.09 s, P=0.011), with faster performance when dehydrated. No significant differences were found for CWL (words recalled) (dehydrated 18.98±5.21 words vs. hydrated: 18.92±4.12 words, P=0.99) or TMT Part B (dehydrated: 41.63±19.40 s vs. hydrated: 48.97±11.55 s, P=0.23). Conclusions: Dehydration did not affect spatial ability, attention, or executive functioning. Participants performed faster on the TMT than normative values based on Fromm-Auch and Yeudall (1983). However, pre- and post-training comparisons are needed to determine whether the protocol improved performance. Short-term memory results were lower than previous averages, possibly reflecting cognitive fatigue or stress. Future research should further examine the effects of hydration, exercise intensity, and psychological factors on short-term memory performance.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Pasley, Jana	Harris, Eboni	The Impact of Transformational Leadership on Nurse Retention View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Nurse retention and job satisfaction remain critical challenges in healthcare organizations, contributing to increased turnover rates, staffing shortages, and compromised patient outcomes. Nursing leadership style has been identified as a key factor influencing nurses’ workplace experiences and organizational commitment. Purpose: The purpose of this evidence based project was to examine the impact of transformational leadership on nurse retention and job satisfaction in hospital and nursing settings. Methods: A review of current peer reviewed literature was conducted using databases such as CINAHL and PubMed. Search terms included “transformational leadership,” “nurse retention,” “job satisfaction,” “nursing leadership,” and “turnover.” Articles published between 2019 and 2024 were included. Inclusion criteria focused on quantitative and mixed-method studies examining relationships between transformational leadership and nurse outcomes. A total of 15 articles met criteria and were analyzed Results: The evidence consistently demonstrated that transformational leadership is associated with higher levels of nurse job satisfaction, increased engagement, and reduced turnover. Nurse leaders who exhibit transformational behaviors such as inspirational motivation, individualized consideration, and supportive communication, positively influence work environments and promote professional growth. Conclusion: Transformational leadership has a significant positive impact on nurse retention and job satisfaction. Implementing transformational leadership strategies may improve nurse workforce stability, enhance organizational culture, and support quality patient care outcomes.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Woytowitz, Sophia	Childs, Matthew	Altitude and Empire: Environmental Constraint and Human Adaptation in Andean Peru View Full Text Abstract Text This project argues that chronic high-altitude hypoxia fundamentally structured political organization, labor systems, and inequality in Andean Peru, shaping both imperial success under Inca rule and conditions under Spanish colonial expansion. Rather than treating altitude as passive geography, I analyze reduced atmospheric oxygen as a measurable physiological constraint using hemoglobin transport as an interpretive framework. At Andean elevations, decreased partial pressure of oxygen lowers hemoglobin saturation and limits tissue oxygen delivery, placing ceilings on endurance and sustained physical labor. Although acclimatization responses such as increased 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate levels and rightward shifts of the hemoglobin–oxygen dissociation curve improve oxygen unloading, they do not eliminate the metabolic costs of chronic hypoxia. Inca political systems implicitly aligned governance with these biological realities. Agricultural terraces stabilized food production in marginal terrain, vertical ecological exchange distributed resources across elevations, ayllu-based communal labor regulated work demands, and quipu recordkeeping coordinated redistribution to prevent overexertion in hypoxic environments. Together, these institutions moderated cumulative physiological strain and enabled dense highland populations to persist. In contrast, Spanish colonial expansion intensified labor extraction through expanded mita drafts while dismantling Indigenous administrative systems attuned to altitude-specific constraints. By disregarding the physiological limits imposed by hemoglobin-based oxygen transport, colonial authorities amplified fatigue, illness, and inequality between highland laborers and lowland centers such as Lima. Overall, this study demonstrates that oxygen transport functioned as a structural determinant of imperial stability. Political systems in the Andes succeeded when they operated within biological limits imposed by altitude and destabilized when they exceeded them.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Eliasof, Abbe	Li, Yangmei	Modification of CycloAnt Yields a Bifunctional MOR/DOR Agonist with Enhanced Affinity and In Vivo Analgesic Potency and Safety View Full Text Abstract Text Peptide-based opioid ligands represent promising candidates for developing novel, safer, and more effective pain therapeutics. We previously identified a brain-permeable cyclic peptide, CycloAnt, which is a dual-functional mu- (MOR)/delta- (DOR) opioid receptor ligand producing antinociception in mice with greater potency than morphine but significantly less morphine-associated side effects.1, 2 To further improve its analgesic potency, safety profile, and drug-like properties, we designed and synthesized a series of CycloAnt analogs by modifying the anthranilamide (Ant) moiety and incorporating unnatural amino acids into the peptide backbone. The most potent analog, DMT[CycloAnt], exhibited sub-nanomolar binding affinity for both MOR (0.195 nM) and DOR (0.434 nM) and agonist activity with an EC50 value of 0.37 nM at MOR and 0.2 nM at DOR. When administrated intraperitoneally (i.p.), DMT[CycloAnt] produced remarkably potent antinociception in mice, exhibiting more than 85% maximum antinociception at doses as low as 0.03 mg/kg in the formalin assay. Importantly, the compound showed neither rewarding nor aversive effects at 10 mg/kg, i.p., in mice using the conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm. Collectively, these findings support its potential as a next-generation safer and more effective opioid analgesic.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Rostaghi Chalaki, Habib	Lee, Dongkyu	Integrating Freestanding Membranes for Band Gap Modulation in Gd-Doped CeO2 View Full Text Abstract Text The development of advanced optoelectronic devices critically depends on the precise control of electronic and optical properties in functional materials. Among wide band gap oxides, ceria (3.0 ~ 3.2 eV) is a promising candidate due to its potential due to its tunable band gap, high chemical and thermal stability, and favorable ionic and electronic conductivity enabled by oxygen vacancies. However, conventional band gap engineering methods, such as chemical substitution, often introduce undesirable defects and degrade carrier mobility, ultimately limiting device performance. In this study, we demonstrate a novel strategy to engineer the band gap of Gd-doped CeO2 (GDC) using a freestanding membrane approach. Epitaxial GDC thin films with (001) and (111) orientations were fabricated via pulsed laser deposition on single-crystal SrTiO₃ substrates, utilizing a Ca-containing Sr₃Al₂O₆ (SCAO) water-soluble sacrificial layer and a polypropylene carbonate protective coating to ensure membrane integrity during release. Following complete detachment, the GDC membranes were transferred onto Al₂O₃ substrates. Interestingly, the (001) and (111) orientations resulted in flat and wrinkled surface morphologies, respectively, due to orientation-dependent lattice mismatch with SCAO. Despite these differences, electrical transport properties remained robust, suggesting the material’s resilience to morphological variation. Importantly, surface wrinkling induced during fabrication led to a notable increase in the GDC membrane’s band gap, offering a controllable optical effect relevant for device applications. This freestanding membrane approach enables precise band gap tuning while preserving conductivity and minimizing defect formation. Furthermore, the freestanding platform is compatible with a range of substrates and device architectures, facilitating scalable integration into advanced optoelectronic systems. Our results establish freestanding membrane-based band gap engineering as a promising alternative to traditional doping methods, setting a new paradigm for functional oxide material design.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Seesi, Ebenezer	Lee, Dongkyu	Epitaxial Strain-Mediated Control of Oxygen Vacancies in SrRuO3 for Enhanced Thermoelectric Properties View Full Text Abstract Text Epitaxial strain in films grown on lattice-mismatched substrates plays a key role in tuning a wide range of physical and chemical properties of transition metal oxides (TMOs) through the modulation of oxygen vacancies. Strain has also shown potential for enhancing the thermoelectric (TE) properties of TMOs, enabling efficient heat-to-electricity conversion. Nevertheless, the effect of strain-mediated oxygen vacancies on TMO TE properties remains poorly understood. In this work, we explore the role of oxygen vacancies on the TE properties of epitaxial SrRuO3 (SRO) thin films by systematically varying strain using lattice-mismatched substrates to induce different strain states. In-situ X-ray diffraction reveals that compressive strain effectively reduces oxygen vacancy concentrations, thereby increasing charge carrier mobility without altering carrier density. compressively strained SRO films exhibit significantly improved electrical conductivity while maintaining consistent thermopower, resulting in a nearly threefold increase in power factor compared to relaxed films. Moreover, Time-domain thermoreflectance measurements demonstrate reduced thermal conductivity in compressively-strained films, leading to a greater than 50% improvement in the figure of merit when compared to bulk SRO. Our findings highlight the significant role of strain-controlled oxygen vacancies in modulating the TE properties of TMOs, providing a pathway to advanced materials design for high-temperature TE applications.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Mahoney, Audrey	McQuail, Joseph Stone, Leah Vento, Peter	Development and Validation of a Translational Dual-Task Paradigm for Assessing Executive Function in Rodent Models of Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease View Full Text Abstract Text Aging is the strongest risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), yet executive control processes such as cognitive flexibility and task switching are also vulnerable to normative aging. Distinguishing age-related executive decline from early AD-related dysfunction requires paradigms that isolate specific control mechanisms rather than global performance deficits. We developed and validated a rodent dual-task paradigm designed to quantify executive control demands through switching and mixing costs. Male and female TgF344-AD rats and wild-type (WT) littermate controls were tested alongside young (~6 months) and aged (~26 months) F344 rats. Using operant chambers, rats were trained to alternate between matching and non-matching rules. Switching costs were defined as performance differences between repeat and switch trials within mixed blocks and mixing costs as differences between single-task and mixed-task blocks. Accuracy and latency were measured to dissociate executive-specific impairments from generalized slowing. Accuracy declined as executive demand increased, with non-matching and mixed-block conditions producing greater costs than single-task conditions. Switching costs were significantly greater than mixing costs (p < 0.0001), demonstrating robust sensitivity to rule-switching demands. Latency was unaffected, indicating that performance costs reflected executive accuracy impairments rather than motor slowing. Although aged rats exhibited reduced overall accuracy relative to young rats, the magnitude of switching and mixing costs did not differ by age. Importantly, Tg rats did not differ from WT controls in switching or mixing costs, suggesting preserved executive flexibility at this stage of AD pathology. These findings demonstrate that the paradigm reliably engages executive control mechanisms and dissociates executive-specific accuracy costs from generalized cognitive load. This framework provides a mechanistically sensitive platform for longitudinal studies investigating the emergence of executive dysfunction and its translational relevance to early cognitive decline in AD.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Calhoun, Elizabeth	Meyer-Gutbrod, Erin Walsh, Ryan	Understanding migratory behavior of the Pacific Coast Feeding Group gray whales through barnacle morphology and body condition View Full Text Abstract Text The Pacific Coast Feeding Group (PCFG) is a subset of approximately 213 individuals from the Eastern North Pacific (ENP) gray whale population. Both the ENP and the PCFG have declined in abundance. PCFG gray whales migrate annually from summer foraging grounds of northern California to northern British Columbia, to winter breeding grounds in the lagoons of Baja California, Mexico. However, recent evidence suggests that some PCFG whales have not migrated south each breeding season, biasing the annual abundance estimates derived from shore-based observations of migrating whales in Point Reyes, California. In the breeding lagoons and on the southern range of the migration corridor, barnacles, Cryptolepas rhachianecti, rapidly recruit to gray whales. These barnacles have characteristic morphologies of each growth stage post-settlement which can be leveraged to determine gray whale migratory behavior. We assumed that an absence of young barnacles on an individual observed on the northern corridor was indicative of that whale not fully migrating south during the previous breeding season. The Makah Tribe provided photos spanning from 2014 to 2020 of PCFG whales observed in northwest Washington. We delineated 26 distinct anatomical regions on individual gray whales to assess the overall visibility (i.e., effort), barnacle presence, and barnacle life stage in each defined body region for every month that a whale was observed. Results will be compared to the body condition of individuals to evaluate if an underlying health factor is correlated with migration decisions. We hypothesized that a whale without juvenile barnacles would have insufficient energy stores needed to complete the migration, and therefore, remain in the north, preventing new barnacle recruitment. The results from this study will help inform whether this non-invasive method of evaluating migratory behavior can be used to aid abundance estimates, while attempting to elucidate factors that drive migration decision-making.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Peak, Gabrielle	Hancock, C. Nathan	Altering the terminal inverted repeat sequences of the soybean CACTA transposable element dTgm9 inhibits its transposition View Full Text Abstract Text Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile DNA sequences that have significant roles in generating genetic variation and altering gene expression. The CACTA-family of TEs has highly conserved terminal inverted repeats (TIRs) composed of the sequence CACTA on both ends of the element. The TIRs are recognized by the transposase enzyme that binds the TIRs and catalyzes transposition. We developed a yeast transposition assay for a 2000 bp version of the soybean CACTA element, Tgm9, called dTgm9. Our goal was to determine the role of the TIRs in the transposition of the dTgm9 element. We hypothesized that they are required for transposase binding and/or catalysis because they are highly conserved across eukaryotes. We altered the first ‘C’ nucleotide of the dTgm9 TIR to an A, T, or G on the 5’, 3’, and 5’+3’ ends and transformed them into yeast. By performing yeast transposition assays, we determined that all the modified constructs showed a significant decrease in transposition. This indicates that the TIRS play a critical role in dTgm9 transposition. However, a higher transposition frequency was observed for 3’ modifications compared to 5’ modifications indicating that alterations to the 3’ TIR are slightly less disruptive. This suggests that transposition complex formation may initiate at the 5’ TIR. By continuing to study the role of the dTgm9 terminal inverted repeats, we hope to identify which other bases are critical for transposition.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Yigamawano, Francesco	Shazly, Tarek Spinale, Francis	Myocardial stiffness properties are improved in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in pigs by a regular exercise regimen View Full Text Abstract Text Left ventricular (LV) pressure overload (LVPO) causes LV hypertrophy and resistance to LV filling, notably increased LV chamber stiffness and LV myocardial stiffness (Kc, Km, respectively), and ultimately causes increased pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) and the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Exercise programs in HFpEF patients have been promising, but whether an exercise program superimposed with progressive LVPO would alter LV stiffness properties and thus HFpEF progression remains unclear. Pigs (25 kg) underwent progressive LVPO for 5 weeks without (n=8) or with daily exercise (n=8, 10 degrees elevation, 2.5 mph, 10 min, 5 days/week). LV function and geometry was determined at baseline and weekly by transthoracic echocardiography whereby Kc and Km were computed by validated algorithms including speckle tracking echocardiography (Figure). In both LVPO groups, LV mass increased by over 55% from baseline, and while Kc and Km increased in a time dependent manner with LVPO, the increase in LV stiffness properties was significantly reduced in the LVPO exercise group, which was particularly evident for Km. At 5 weeks, PCWP was lower in the LVPO exercise group (10.52 ± 0.35 vs 11.88 ± 0.34 mmHg, p<0.05). LV collagen percent area by histomorphometry was reduced in the LVPO exercise group compared to LVPO (5.96 ± 0.50 vs 10.82 ± 0.39 %, p<0.05). Thus, this model of progressive LVPO caused time dependent increases in LV stiffness properties, fibrosis and emergence of a HFpEF phenotype whereby these changes were blunted with a superimposed exercise protocol. The unique and significant findings from this study were that with a continuous and progressive LVPO stimulus, a superimposed regular exercise protocol did not alter the LV hypertrophic response, but reduced time dependent increases in LV stiffness properties, particularly Km, and a structural basis for this effect was the prevention of myocardial fibrosis.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Miller, Sienna	McQuail, Joseph	Ketogenic Feeding Induces Selective and Context-Dependent Mitochondrial Remodeling in the Aging Hippocampus View Full Text Abstract Text Aging is associated with reduced cerebral glucose utilization and altered mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), potentially contributing to cognitive vulnerability. Ketone bodies provide an alternative metabolic substrate, but it remains unclear whether dietary ketosis induces selective remodeling of hippocampal mitochondrial proteins and whether such changes relate to spatial memory performance across age and sex. Male and female rats aged 6 months (young) and 24 months (aged) were maintained on ad libitum chow (AL-CHOW), time-restricted carbohydrate diet (TRF-CARB), or time-restricted ketogenic medium chain triglyceride diet (TRF-KMCT). Spatial learning was assessed using the Morris Water Maze. Hippocampal synaptosomal fractions were isolated, and mitochondrial protein expression was quantified via Western blot. Data were analyzed using three-way ANOVA (Sex × Age × Diet) and hierarchical regression predicting Spatial Learning Index (SLI). Diet regulated mitochondrial proteins in a selective manner MTCO1 (Complex IV) exhibited a significant main effect of diet, with reduced expression in TRF-KMCT relative to AL-CHOW, independent of age and sex. ATP5A (Complex V) showed a significant Diet × Sex interaction, indicating sex-dependent modulation of ATP synthase expression across dietary conditions. TOM20, a marker of mitochondrial content, also demonstrated a significant main effect of diet, with reduced expression under ketogenic feeding. While most OXPHOS proteins were not directly associated with SLI, TOM20 exhibited a significant Diet × SLI interaction: higher TOM20 expression was positively associated with poorer spatial learning in AL-CHOW animals but not in time-restricted diet groups. These findings demonstrate that ketogenic feeding induces selective and partially sex-dependent remodeling of hippocampal mitochondria. Together, these results suggest that metabolic interventions may influence cognitive vulnerability not through global enhancement of mitochondrial function, but through selective and context-dependent remodeling of specific mitochondrial components.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Dumych, Roman	Zeng, Qingli	VeriRouter - UAV Secure Routing View Full Text Abstract Text With the rising use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), security has become an important factor in UAV networks. The devices’ functionality and the data that they transmit are constantly at risk of attacks and intrusions. VeriRoute, our lightweight packet‑level path‑commitment and delayed key‑disclosure mechanism. It appends short tags to each packet that is sent, which enables the receiver to verify the packet’s authenticity. We plan to implement VeriRoute in ns-3, a standard network simulator built in C++. We plan to test its performance against standard AODV/OLSR models and compare its effectiveness against blackhole and wormhole attacks. This paper focuses on the initial setup of the project, which includes installing ns-3, researching its functionality configuring the network topology, and implementing visual tools for easier data collection and analysis. This project heavily reinforces our understanding of network security, particularly intrusion detection and prevention, C++ programming and the implementation of external libraires, and extending the current libraries with our own modules.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Eckman, Samuel	Ilieva, Yordanka	Yield Extraction and Acceptance Studies for Λ Photoproduction off Deuteron View Full Text Abstract Text Experimental observables of hyperon photoproduction play an important role in the study of non-perturbative Quantum Chromodynamics. The E06-103 experiment at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility used a tagged real photon beam incident on a liquid deuterium target to create a large set of polarization observables for lambda quasi-free and re-scattering photoproduction. These help address questions about baryon structure and quantify poorly-known parameters of the hyperon-nucleon interaction. For theoretical interpretation of the data, cross sections are also necessary, which requires estimates of reaction yields and detector acceptance. Here, we present our work for the γd → K⁺Λn reaction using E06-103 data taken with the CEBAF Large Acceptance Spectrometer (CLAS). The final state was found by requesting the kaon, and the pion and proton from the lambda decay, be detected. Charged-particle identification was done using the time-of-flight technique. Reconstruction of the invariant mass of the pπ⁻ resulted in a clear Λ peak. The undetected neutron was identified via the missing-mass method. Detector acceptance was estimated using the CLAS GEANT-based simulation and the analysis created for the real data. In this presentation we will show our acceptance studies as well as preliminary results for acceptance-corrected yields, both in the quasi-free and the re-scattering kinematics. These can be used to determine the reaction cross section.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Blakeney, Samara	Wilcox, Sara	Changes in Physical Activity Over 12 Months in a Faith-Based National Implementation Study: Are Effects Moderated by Participant Characteristics? View Full Text Abstract Text Purpose: Interventions delivered in faith-based settings can influence health behaviors by changing the environments in which people worship and gather. However, it is unclear whether behavior changes occur similarly across demographic and health subgroups. The purpose of this study was to examine changes in congregant physical activity (PA) over 12 months in a national implementation study of a faith-based intervention and to test whether changes differed by gender, age, body mass index (BMI), worship attendance frequency, and baseline health status. Methods: Members (N=511; 57.4±14.4 years; 76% women; 98% African American) from 17 churches completed online surveys at baseline and 12 months (n=351; 69% retained) as part of the Faith, Activity, and Nutrition (FAN) national implementation study. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (minutes/week) was self-reported and square-root transformed for analysis. Linear repeated measures mixed-effects models that accounted for church-level clustering examined the effect of time and time-by-subgroup interactions for gender, age (≥65 vs <65), BMI (continuous and categorical), worship attendance (4+ times/month vs ≤3), and self-rated health (very good/excellent vs fair/good/poor). Results: Physical activity increased significantly from baseline to 12 months (p<.05). Time-by-subgroup interactions were not significant for gender, age, BMI, or worship attendance (all p>.05), indicating similar increases in PA across subgroups. A significant time-by-health-status interaction was observed (p<.05), with participants reporting poorer baseline health demonstrating larger increases in PA than those reporting better baseline health. Conclusions: Physical activity increased over 12 months among congregants participating in this faith-based intervention, with largely consistent improvements across subgroups. These findings suggest the intervention was broadly effective across diverse participant characteristics, supporting its scalability and potential to promote equitable health behavior change in church settings. Congregants with poorer health, who were initially the least physically active, showed the greatest improvements over time, highlighting the potential of this church-wide intervention approach for improving health.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Waters, Lauren	Schatz, Jeffrey	Social Risk and Protective Factors in Children with Sickle Cell Disease and Neurodevelopmental Delay View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: Children with sickle cell disease (SCD) have an increased risk of neurodevelopmental delays, in part due to cerebrovascular morbidity. We used systematic screening to assess psychological adjustment and social risk and protective factors among youth with SCD to understand how the developmental context differs between those with or without developmental delay. Methods: Data were obtained from a routine psychosocial screening program within a pediatric SCD clinic. 107 youth (7-11 years) were included. History of neurodevelopmental delay or disorders was coded from medical record review to create two groups of children with (N=32) and without (N=75) neurodevelopmental concerns. Group differences in psychological outcomes in middle childhood were compared using Chi-square tests and independent sample t-tests. Due to the large number of social factors assessed, two factor scores were created (family functioning/instrumental resources available and SES) to assess group differences in social-environmental outcomes. Results: Parents of children with a history of neurodevelopmental delay endorsed more inattentive symptoms (t(105) = -4.46, p <.001, d= 0.94), as well as higher reports of child behavioral/conduct difficulties (t(105) = -2.12, p = .018, d= 0.45) than observed in the group without neurodevelopmental delays. The delay group also reported more family risk factors and fewer family protective factors (t(105) = 2.71, p = .008, d= 0.57) and lower socioeconomic status (t(105) = -2.23, p = .028, d= 0.47). Follow-up analyses indicated a wide range of specific family and social factors differed between groups, including instrumental resources, social support, family functioning, and family resilience practices. Conclusions: Parents of children with neurodevelopmental delays and disorders in early childhood endorsed more behavioral difficulties and social challenges in middle childhood than children without delays. Social risk and protective factors may be an important context for promoting healthy development among children with SCD and neurodevelopmental delay.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Fyock, Madeline	Kisselev, Olesya	Tastes of Belonging: Food, Language, and Cultural Continuity Among Second-Generation Russophone Immigrants View Full Text Abstract Text As the Russian language increasingly loses its unifying role across diasporic communities, other cultural practices—particularly food and foodways—may be stepping in to sustain a sense of shared identity among Russophone/post-Soviet migrants. This project examines how members of the Russophone diaspora in the United States navigate shifting cultural allegiances in light of recent geopolitical ruptures, notably Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the growing rejection of Russian linguistic and symbolic dominance. Russian heritage speakers, as representatives of the second generation of immigrant diasporas, often experience a weakening connection to the Russian language—due to limited exposure, shifting parental priorities, or local language environments (Polinsky, 2018). Yet many still engage with food-based traditions inherited from parents and grandparents. This study draws on qualitative interviews and surveys to investigate how food and foodways persist as meaningful semiotic resources that link younger generations to their familial and cultural histories (Mankekar, 2005; Miller & Deutsch, 2009). In the absence of strong linguistic continuity, can shared culinary practices serve as alternative markers of diasporic identity? How do second-generation individuals interpret, adapt, or reinvent food traditions associated with their family’s post-Soviet background? Our findings suggest that food—often embedded in routines of holiday celebration, storytelling, and intergenerational interaction—frequently plays a central role in sustaining cultural memory and emotional connection to heritage, even when language proficiency fades. By focusing on the cultural lives of heritage speakers, this research sheds light on how everyday practices help construct and preserve diasporic identities. It also complicates assumptions about cultural loss by showing that while language may recede, other modes of cultural expression, such as food, remain resilient and dynamic (Pavlenko, 2011).	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lewis, Hannah	Quattro, Joe	Applications of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy to Cryptic Species Management View Full Text Abstract Text Two species of morphologically indistinguishable, and therefore ‘cryptic’, hammerhead shark species are known to use estuarine systems in South Carolina as nursery areas. The recently described Carolina hammerhead, Sphyrna gilberti, is externally indistinguishable but co-occurs with the scalloped hammerhead, S. lewini. Applications of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) have recently been described as a method that differentiates closely related animal species but has yet to be applied to cartilaginous fishes. Using NIRS absorbance data and Fourier-transformed statistics, the technology can be portable thereby allowing a rapid and non-invasive determination of species identification in the field. I hypothesized that NIRS would be a rapid and robust method for differentiating cryptic species and therefore be useful for field expedient, non-invasive identifications of S. gilberti and S. lewini. Tissue biopsies taken from the dorsal, anal, pectoral, and caudal (upper and lower lobes) fins using a paper punch. Individual tissue samples were assigned a dummy variable of 0 or 1 (S. lewini or S. gilberti) and then scanned on a Bruker Matrix-I Near Infrared Spectrometer. Data for each individual NIRS scan were parsed the OPUS suite of statistical software for statistical analysis. My results suggest that fin biopsies and the NIRS approach are not suitable for accurately distinguishing this cryptic species pair. I am currently using this approach on other tissue types (e.g., teeth and scales) to determine if other tissue biopsies will yield results in distinguishing this cryptic species pair. Comparatively little is known about the distribution of S. gilberti within and among estuarine systems along the southeastern US and the NIRS approach represents a cost-effective and real-time solution to species discrimination that contributes to rare species management.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
McElveen, Kennerly	Wright, Pamela	Coping Among Women with PCOS: A Comparative Analysis View Full Text Abstract Text Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) a common chronic endocrinopathy, affects ~13% of reproductive-aged women globally. PCOS is a complex, heterogenous collection of symptoms involving hormonal and metabolic dysregulation. Notable symptoms are hirsutism, menstrual irregularities, visceral adiposity, insulin resistance, and subfertility, all which negatively impact quality of life. Women with PCOS are at increased risk of anxiety and depression, as well as other mental health disorders. However, limited research exists on coping strategies used among women with PCOS. The purpose of this study was to examine coping strategies used among women with PCOS and compare to women with no chronic health conditions. Participants were recruited via flyers and social media. Implied informed consent was obtained. The survey was comprised of demographic questions and the BriefCOPE and Adult Coping Inventories (ACI). Data were collected via REDCap. Means/standard deviations were calculated for continuous variables, frequencies for categorical variables, and independent sample t-tests for mean differences between the PCOS group (n=121) and healthy control (HC) group (n=168) on inventory scores. Participants (N=289) were 33.73 (±7.53) years and mostly White (69%). The groups did not significantly differ in baseline characteristics. On the BriefCOPE Inventory, women with PCOS used more emotion-focused coping and avoidance compared to the HC (p<0.001). On the ACI, women with PCOS scored significantly higher than the HC for using maladaptive coping strategies and avoidance (p=0.002 and 0.018, respectively). Poor coping strategies in women with PCOS may be linked to the psychological distress of chronic PCOS symptoms such as hirsutism, acne, subfertility, and depression. As women with a chronic health condition, poor coping skills may reflect a perceived lack of control over the condition and feelings of helplessness. Future research is needed to understand the impact of PCOS on developing poor coping strategies and identify clinical timepoints and measures to promote healthy coping strategies.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Dinh, Tam Gagen, Michelle	Goodrum, Nada McCollum, Diamonde Blackman, Sania	Parental Emotion Regulation and Child Externalizing Behaviors Among Families Affected by Major Life Stressors View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Parental use of emotion regulation (ER) strategies has been shown to predict children’s long-term mental health (Iwanski et al., 2025), with maladaptive ER strategies associated with increased child externalizing symptoms (Roșca et al., 2023). Adaptive ER strategies include cognitive reappraisal (reinterpreting a situation to change its emotional impact) and expressive suppression (inhibiting outward emotional expressions). However, few studies have examined the relation between these specific parental ER strategies and child externalizing behaviors (Zimmer-Gembeck et al., 2022). We examined the associations between parental cognitive reappraisal, expressive suppression, and child externalizing behaviors among families facing major life stressors. We hypothesized that both parental ER strategies would be associated with lower child externalizing behaviors. Method: A diverse sample of parents and their 3- to 9-year-old children (N = 86 dyads) was recruited from Columbia, SC, as part of a larger study evaluating a parenting intervention designed to support parents and children facing major life stressors. At baseline, parents completed the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire to measure parental emotion regulation and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire to measure child externalizing behaviors. Bivariate correlations and a multiple linear regression were conducted using SPSS. Results: Results indicated that parental cognitive reappraisal significantly predicted lower child externalizing behaviors (β = -.222, p = .044), whereas parental expressive suppression did not significantly contribute to the model (p = .877). Overall, the model accounted for 4.9% of the variance in child behavior. Conclusions: Among a diverse sample of families facing major stressors, parental use of cognitive reappraisal was associated with lower child externalizing behaviors. Further research is needed to examine the effectiveness of expressive suppression in reducing child externalizing behaviors, focusing on the down-regulation of specific emotions (sadness, anger, etc.). Parenting interventions should continue to target development of parental emotion regulation skills to support child outcomes.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Pallapothu, Sriya	Wenceslau, Camilla Townsend, Paul Pernomian, Laena Parente, Juliana Conway, Molly Gibbs, Tiereney	Hypertension-like stretch induces brain endothelial damage View Full Text Abstract Text Hypertension affects almost one-half of adults and increases the risk of stroke, dementia, and heart failure. A key contributor to hypertension is dysfunction of endothelial cells, which line blood vessels and regulate vascular tone. Under hypertensive stress, these cells undergo endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), where they lose their protective endothelial identity and adopt a stiff, muscle-like phenotype. Hypertension is also characterized by inflammation, and prior work found increased expression of the immune receptor formyl peptide receptor 1 (FPR1) in hypertensive conditions. However, whether inflammatory signaling through FPR1 contributes to EndMT remains unknown. In this study, murine brain endothelial cells underwent physiological (normotension) (5%) or hypertensive (20%) mechanical stretch, with or without FPR1 or FPR2 inhibitors. Western blots assessed protein expression associated with mesenchymal features, and results showed that hypertension-like stretch changed the endothelial cell cytoskeleton. By clarifying how inflammatory signaling drives harmful endothelial changes, this work explores early mechanisms underlying hypertension and potential targets to prevent disease progression.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Rother, Yvette	Flory, Kate	ADHD and Suicidality Among College Students: The Moderating Role of Social, Psychological, and Treatment Factors View Full Text Abstract Text In the United States, suicide ranks as the third leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 15-24. Individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are at an increased risk for suicidality, including ideation, attempts, and death by suicide. Limited research has examined protective factors that mitigate suicidal risk in individuals with ADHD. Therefore, this study 1) examined the associations between ADHD symptoms and ADHD diagnosis and suicidality among college students, and 2) tested whether these associations were moderated by a number of potential protective factors, such as faith-related support, family sources of support, peer acceptance and support, perceived personal strength, medication, non-pharmacological interventions, grit, self-compassion, and benevolent childhood experiences (BCEs). Participants included 1,373 college students aged 18-24 with and without ADHD at the University of South Carolina (USC). Data was collected via an online survey during the Fall 2025 semester as part of the SPARK (Suicide Prevention in ADHD Research in College) Study. Linear regressions showed that ADHD symptoms and diagnosis were both significantly and positively associated with suicidality. Additionally, faith-related support, family sources of support, peer acceptance and support, perceived personal strength, self-compassion, and BCEs moderated the association between ADHD symptoms and suicidality, such that the positive association between ADHD symptoms and suicidality was weaker at higher levels of these protective factors. Faith-related support, family sources of support, self-compassion, and BCEs also moderated the association between ADHD diagnosis and suicidality in the expected buffering direction. Understanding how ADHD and the protective factors influence suicidality can inform future research and help tailor assessments and interventions for effective suicide prevention effort.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Le, An	Goodrum, Nada Nguyen, Julie McCollum, Diamonde Blackman, Sania	Beyond Internalizing Symptoms: Examining the Broader Impact of Parental Anxiety on Child Outcomes View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Parental mental health is consistently linked to increased social-emotional difficulties in children (Honda et al., 2023). While many studies examine parental mental health broadly, parental anxiety may exert unique influences due to its association with disengagement and withdrawal (Woodruff-Borden et al., 2002). Children of parents with anxiety show higher levels of internalizing symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression; Okonkwo et al., 2025). However, there is limited research on whether parental anxiety affects children’s externalizing behaviors, such as aggression and defiance, or physical health. Addressing these gaps is crucial to elucidate effects of parental anxiety on child outcomes. This study examines how parental anxiety relates to child internalizing symptoms, externalizing behaviors, and physical activity-related parenting, providing a more comprehensive understanding of its impact on child well-being. Methods: Data came from a national online survey investigating parental stressors and their relation to child and family functioning. A sample of 496 parents (56% female, Mean age = 37.23) with children aged 2-12 years old completed questionnaires to assess parental anxiety, child internalizing and externalizing symptoms, and parents’ support of children’s physical activity. Regression analyses were conducted in SPSS. Results: Results showed that parental anxiety was positively associated with child externalizing behaviors (β = .26, p < .001) and internalizing symptoms (β = .43, p < .001), and negatively associated with parental support for children’s physical activity (β = -.13, p = .005). Conclusion: Higher parental anxiety was associated with both child internalizing and externalizing problems, with a stronger association with internalizing symptoms. Parental anxiety was also linked to lower parental support for children’s physical activity. Findings may inform interventions to support parental and child well-being and mitigate effects of parental anxiety on child outcomes. Future research should explore mechanisms underlying these associations and identify under what conditions the impact of parental anxiety on child functioning may be minimized.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Dunning, Hayden	Montie, Eric Marian, Alyssa	Lost In The Noise: Vessel Traffic Contaminates Seasonal Fish Choruses In Urban Estuaries View Full Text Abstract Text In the turbid estuaries of the Southeastern USA, sound plays a crucial role in the phenology and reproductive potential of many fish species. Silver perch Bairdiella chrysoura, black drum Pogonias cromis, oyster toadfish Opsanus tau, spotted seatrout Cynoscion nebulosus, Atlantic croaker Micropogonias undulatus, and red drum Sciaenops ocellatus all rely on acoustic signaling for courtship and reproduction. In fact, higher levels of fish calling are positively correlated with young-of-year appearance and abundance. Increasing levels of anthropogenic noise in urban estuaries may pose a threat to these species, as it can cause acoustic masking. Using data from the Estuarine Soundscape Observatory Network in the Southeast (ESONS), this study examined the long-term differences in biological soundscapes across three South Carolina estuaries: the May River, the Chechessee Creek and Colleton River, and the Charleston Harbor. Our findings reveal that in more pristine estuaries like Chechessee Creek and the Colleton River, biological sounds follow distinct seasonal, lunar, diel, and tidal patterns. In more urban estuaries, like the May River and Charleston Harbor, these patterns are degraded by excessive input of anthropogenic noise. Further studies will explore the impact of this noise on fish reproduction.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Johnson, Marissa	Toll, Katherine	Evolution of Anthocyanin Pigments in M. guttatus Across Soil Types View Full Text Abstract Text Serpentine soil is characterized by its low calcium-to-magnesium ratios, toxic heavy metals, and generally low nutrient content. Its low calcium levels substantially limit serpentine plant productivity, as calcium is essential for proper function and growth. Additionally, serpentine soils are shallow and have reduced vegetative cover, forcing serpentine endemics to adapt to the soil's high levels of UV radiation, hotter temperatures, and water scarcity. Anthocyanins are floral pigments that occur in both floral and vegetative tissue and provide plants with tolerance to abiotic stressors, such as heavy metals, UV radiation, and drought. The pigment also plays an important role in pollinator-mediated selection through floral display. Mimulus guttatus, or the yellow monkeyflower, has adapted to grow in both serpentine and nonserpentine soils. Using seeds from 8 populations of M. Guttatus (4 serpentine and 4 nonserpentine), grown in a common garden experiment, phenotypic traits and anthocyanin levels will be compared between serpentine and nonserpentine populations. We hypothesize that anthocyanin levels in serpentine populations will be elevated in floral and vegetative tissue as a result of local adaptation to the harsh abiotic stressors of the serpentine environment. Afterwards, machine learning and multivariate techniques will be employed on genetic, phenotypic, and visual data to summarize and predict pigment patterning on leaves and flowers from both serpentine vs. nonserpentine M. guttatus populations.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bunton, Jesse Way, Jordyn	Kilpatrick, Eran	Supporting the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie Herbarium: An Undergraduate Research Experience through Palmetto College View Full Text Abstract Text Herbaria are collections of preserved plant specimens that are pressed, mounted, and stored in databases for research. Scientists use these specimens to study plant distribution, genetics, ecology, evolution, and biodiversity. The University of South Carolina Salkehatchie Herbarium (SALK), founded in 2013, is part of the Southeast Regional Network of Expertise and Collections (SERNEC), which connects over 200 herbaria across the Southeast. During this research experience, we mounted 158 dried plant specimens onto herbarium sheets, entered 212 records into the SERNEC database, and assisted in organizing the collection. Salkehatchie's Herbarium currently houses over 1,400 publicly available specimens through SERNEC and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). Collections like the one curated at the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie are important because they provide real, physical records that support research in biodiversity, systematics, ecology, and evolution.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Johnston, Curran	Foster, Dan	Pharmacological Potentiation of M4 Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptors Exhibits Sex Selective Reduction in Repetitive Grooming in SAPAP3 KO Mice View Full Text Abstract Text Repetitive Behaviors (RBs) are a common symptom of several disorders, including autism spectrum disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder. These behaviors are defined by their repetition past the point of any discernible function and can significantly disrupt the lives of those experiencing them. No FDA-approved drugs are currently available to treat RBs, and thus there is a major need for novel therapeutic strategies. It has been proposed that dysregulation of the striatum, a key brain structure in action selection, is a key causal factor in RBs by over-promoting or suppressing the inhibition of the behavior. The muscarinic acetylcholine 4 receptor subtype (M4) is highly expressed in the striatum, where it can regulate neuronal signaling. SAPAP3 knockout (KO) mice exhibit excessive and repetitive grooming even after developing grooming-induced lesions. Here, we utilized the machine-learning algorithm Motion Sequencing (MoSeq) to test the hypothesis that pharmacological potentiation of M4 receptors in the dorsal striatum can selectively reduce repetitive grooming in SAPAP3 KO mice. We recorded 30-minute sessions of 17 SAPAP3 KO (9 males, 8 females) and 12 WT littermate controls (5 males, 7 females). Treatments consisted of receiving an IP injection of vehicle or an M4 modulating drug at several doses (0.1, 0.3, 1, or 3 mg/kg). MoSeq analysis of SAPAP3 KO behavior agreed with previous literature, showing increased grooming behavior with no significant sex differences. In the drug treated KO animals, grooming was significantly reduced at 0.3 mg/kg in the males (p=0.0458), with no significant changes in seen at any dose in females. The lack of drug efficacy in reducing grooming in female KO mice was surprising, and future work is needed to determine the mechanism of this sex difference. However, these data suggest that M4 receptor potentiation can selectively attenuate excessive grooming without globally reducing other behaviors in male mice.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
KAMADJE SADJIE, DJIENA ALLEN Colglazier, Kelsey	Ahmad, Iftikhar	High-Quality Growth of GaN by Nano Epitaxial Lateral Overgrowth View Full Text Abstract Text Gallium Nitride (GaN) has emerged as one of the leading semiconductor materials for production of high power electronic and photonic devices due to its large bandgap of 3.4eV. The essential condition that GaN can be used for the device is its material and surface quality estimated by treading dislocation density (TDD) and its roughness, respectively. Typically, GaN is grown using heteroepitaxy on non-native substrates due to high cost and scarcity of native substrate. Sapphire is commonly used substrate; typically, GaN on sapphire has a large number of treading dislocation density (TDD), and while serval techniques have been developed to prevent this, they are expensive and time consuming. Creating self-assembled nanopores during the growth process enables nano epitaxial lateral overgrowth (n-ELOG) and enables us to grow GaN layer on par with the state-of-the-art. We demonstrated GaN samples with a thickness ranging from 1mm to 8mm. These samples were analyzed by atomic force microscopy (AFM), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. We present the data for XRD rocking curves, AFM scans, and Raman spectroscopy and explain and conclude how this process is better than the option available to improve the crystalline quality.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Christy, Hunter	McQuillin, Samuel	Images or Not: Memorization Ability With or Without a Guide View Full Text Abstract Text The purpose of this experiment is to examine peoples’ ability to recall items from their short-term memory depending on how that information is presented to them, that is if that information has an accompaniment or not, or whether that accompaniment is lying. The hypothesis is that participants will on average score higher on the test with congruent accompaniments compared to the exams without an accompaniment. Furthermore, the test with incongruent accompaniments will have a lower average score than the other two tests. Participants will be convenience sampled around the University of South Carolina campus, and each of them will be asked to participate in an online survey individually. The first part will evaluate their abilities to create mental images in their head. The next three parts will evaluate short-term recall, with each section having a video, each containing a spoken list of ten words with three seconds between each word. The first video will be just a black screen, the second will have images that are congruent with the words (such as showing a photo of a beach while the word beach is spoken), and the third will have incongruent imagery (such as a photo of a baby when the word adult is spoken). Following the viewing of each video, the participants will be asked to write down as many words as they can remember. A Pearson’s R will be used to see if there is a correlation between participants’ ability to generate mental images and scores associated with the no-images video. A paired samples t-test will be used to compare the average scores associated with video with no images and the video containing congruent images. Finally, a repeated measures ANOVA will be used to compare the mean scores associated with all three videos.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Arcement, Jake	Hudac, Caitlin Benjamin-Cramer, Sophie Mace, Olivia	Auditory Hypersensitivity, Habituation, and Behavioral Dysregulation in Autism Spectrum Disorder View Full Text Abstract Text Auditory hypersensitivity and over-reactivity are among the most common sensory processing differences in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and have been linked to over-focused or “sticky” attention. Caregiver reports of auditory filtering difficulties are also associated with maladaptive behavioral outcomes, including both externalizing behaviors (e.g., impulsivity and hyperactivity) and internalizing behaviors (e.g., anxiety and perseveration). However, the neural mechanisms underlying auditory sensitivity and habituation, and how they relate to behavioral dysregulation in ASD, remain unclear. The present study used neural markers of attention to clarify the relationship between auditory processing and internalizing and externalizing symptom severity in ASD. Participants included 130 autistic and 86 non-autistic individuals ranging from early childhood through young adulthood. Participants completed an auditory oddball task during electroencephalography (EEG) recording, which included frequent and novel sounds. Neural sensitivity and habituation were indexed using P3 event-related potential (ERP) amplitude (125–450 ms), a marker of early attention orienting. Internalizing and externalizing behaviors were assessed via parent report using the Child Behavior Checklist. Results indicated that autistic participants showed different patterns of neural adaptation to novel sounds as a function of both internalizing and externalizing symptom severity. Higher internalizing and externalizing severity were associated with lower initial neural sensitivity to novel sounds, followed by sensitization across task progression rather than typical habituation. In contrast, non-autistic participants demonstrated adaptive habituation to novel sounds regardless of symptom severity. These findings suggest that heightened behavioral dysregulation in ASD is linked to atypical neural attention patterns, characterized by over-focused attention and lack of habituation to novel sounds. Together, these results offer a potential neural explanation for the co-occurrence of under- and over-responsiveness to auditory stimuli in ASD, and they underscore the importance of sensory-based interventions for addressing maladaptive internalizing and externalizing behaviors.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
May, Zoe	Pellegrini, Christine Jamieson, Scott Horn, Kailyn	Perceived Competence and its Influence on Pain and Activity View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: Limited research exists on the influence of one’s perceived competence of physical activity (PA) on pain, function, and activity levels after-total knee replacement (TKR). This study examined the association between perceived competence of PA with pain, function, and PA in adults with TKR. Methods: This was a secondary analysis of baseline data from a randomized trial examining the effects of a weight loss intervention after TKR. Participants completed the 1) Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), which has 3 subscales (pain, fitness, physical function). Participants responded to 5 items on a Likert scale none (0) to extreme (4))2) Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) has 5 subscales (pain, activities of daily living, sports/recreation, quality of life) with 5 items on a 5-point Likert Scale (0 (never/none) to 4 (always/extreme)) And 3) Perceived competence of PA is a 4-item survey (Likert scale from 1 (not at all true) to 7 (very true)). Participants wore Actigraph accelerometers on waists for 7 days for ≥10 hours/day to measure moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) (min/week) and steps/day. Linear regressions examined the relationship between perceived competence with pain, perception of knee health, and PA using SPSS (v29). Results: Participants (n=179) were 68.2% female, 73.3% white, 80.59±20.60 days since TKR, 65.96±8.39 years, with a BMI of 33.91±4.57kg/m2. Perceived competence significantly predicted MVPA levels, (β = 3.145, p <0.003, R² = .50) and steps/day (β = 74.940, p <0.006, R² = .42). Higher perceived competence predicted all higher KOOS scores (p≤0.026) except KOOS Sport (p=0.190). Higher perceived competence predicted all lower WOMAC scores (p≤0.009). Conclusion: Perceived competence of activity predicted pain, function, and activity in adults with knee replacement. Identifying perceived competence prior to PA or rehab programs for post-surgical populations may help optimize intervention strategies and support clinical outcomes.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Babcock, Elias	Hirsch, Katie Unrein, Callie Rhoades, Sarah Hartner, Ashleigh	Evaluation of Whole-Body Bioimpedance Between Hormone Phases in Premenopausal Women. View Full Text Abstract Text INTRODUCTION Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a noninvasive method to assess body composition, tissue characteristics, and cellular health. BIA measures (resistance[R], reactance[Xc], phase angle[PhA]), reflect fluid distribution and cellular function. Fluctuations in estrogen (E) and progesterone (PdG)across the menstrual cycle are known to influence tissue characteristics, potentially affecting BIA measurements. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate differences in raw bioimpedance values (R, Xc, PhA) between low- and high-hormone phases in premenopausal women. METHODS 58 premenopausal women (age: 21.9±4 years, height: 164.2±6.6 cm, weight: 63.0±9.5 kg, BMI: 23.3±2.7 kg/m², %BF: 26.6±6.7%) completed visits during both the low-hormone phase (LHP: 1-7 days post-menses) and high-hormone phase (HHP: 5-9 days post-ovulation). Of 58 women enrolled, 38 were eumenorrheic (EUM), 14 using oral contraceptives (OC), and 6 were using an intrauterine device (IUD). Raw BIA values were measured via BIA at 50 kHz. were measured via an external urinary hormone device upon visit arrival. Paired sample t-tests were performed to evaluate differences in hormones(E, PdG), body composition (skeletal muscle mass [SMM], %BF, total body water [TBW]), and raw BIA values (R, Xc, PhA) between LHP and HHP. RESULTS E and PdG were significantly lower in LHP (mean difference[MD] ± standard error[SE]: -78.8±16.2, p<0.001). Body composition (SMM,%BF,TBW) did not significantly differ between phases (p>0.05). No BIA outcome was significantly different between phases (p>0.05). R was non-significantly higher in LHP than HHP (MD±SE: 0.3±4.5Ω, p=0.951), whereas Xc and PhA were lower in LHP than HHP (MD±SE; Xc: -0.1±0.7Ω, p=0.932; PhA: -0.01±0.03°, p=0.672), respectively. DISCUSSION E and PdG concentrations can alter tissue characteristics; however, whole-body raw BIA values did not differ between phases. These findings may indicate that systemic hormonal effects may not be detectable with whole-body BIA. As a future direction, segmental BIA may provide greater sensitivity for detecting hormonal effects on tissue integrity.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Nanda, Chitra	Sigfus, Kristinsson	Interacting Effects of Race and Lesion Volume on Aphasia Severity View Full Text Abstract Text Post-stroke aphasia impairs language production and comprehension (Berthier, 2005). Recovery is influenced by stroke-specific factors such as severity, lesion size, and location. Additionally, patient-specific factors like age, cognitive reserve, psychosocial support, and socio-economic status also impact outcomes (Kristinsson et al., 2022; Gadson et al., 2022). Recent work suggests that race is similarly a determining factor for recovery outcomes, with African American stroke survivors experiencing more severe aphasia compared to White individuals. Potential reasons for this effect include inequities in healthcare access, access to rehabilitation, and social determinants of health (Gadson et al., 2022). However, previous studies are scarce and generally include a relatively small sample of research participants, which limits the extent to which these findings may generalize across studies. The present study aimed to address this gap by examining the effect of race on aphasia severity after accounting for demographic and lesion variables associated with recovery in a large cohort of chronic stroke survivors. Specifically, this study researches the interaction between race and aphasia severity in post-stroke patients. The sample included 139 White and 39 African American participants that have left hemisphere post-stroke aphasia. Chi-square tests and independent t-test calculated the racial difference in provided factors. Regression analyses measured the effect of race on aphasia severity (WAB-AQ scores) after controlling for sex, stroke age, lesion volume, and time post-onset. Results showed that African American participants had WAB-AQ scores 12.4 points less than White participants. This indicated that they experienced more severe aphasia, even if lesion size and other affecting variables were controlled. These results suggest that racial disparities in stroke recovery may impact recovery. By emphasizing the relationship between race and structural inequities in aphasia severity outcomes, this research promotes the need for equity in access to post-stroke rehabilitation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Srivastava, Vandana	O'Reilly, Christian	Identifying key HRV indices to classify autonomic states during rest and stress View Full Text Abstract Text The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls involuntary functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion through its sympathetic (SNS, fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic (PNS, rest-and-digest) branches. The SNS supports mobilization and energy expenditure, and the PNS supports maintenance and restorative functions. Their complementary actions define the overall ANS activity, which can be assessed using electrocardiogram (ECG)-derived heart rate variability (HRV). HRV reflects variations in heart rate and provides insight into autonomic dynamics. Monitoring ANS activity is particularly important in conditions involving autonomic dysregulation, such as autism. Delineating SNS and PNS effects is challenging because they are physiologically coupled. Some HRV indices primarily reflect PNS activity, while others capture combined SNS–PNS effects. We hypothesize that a subset of HRV indices could distinguish ANS dominance during rest (PNS) and stress (SNS). Our research addressed two questions: (1) which group of indices best classifies rest versus stress states, and (2) which indices best differentiate SNS and PNS dominance. We analyzed an ECG dataset [1] of ten subjects recorded during a title table test. ECG was segmented into 1-minute windows with 75% overlap and labeled as dominated by SNS (tilted) or PNS (rest). For each window, we computed 27 HRV indices across time, frequency, and nonlinear domains [2]. Features were ranked using Minimum Redundancy Maximum Relevance, and top-k subsets (k = 1–27) were evaluated using the F1-score for Logistic Regression, Decision Tree, Random Forest, and XGBoost classifiers. We found the best F1-score (.71) for the decision tree classifier using a subset of 9 HRV indices. In future work, we plan to apply Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) values to interpret indices’ contributions in both SNS and PNS processes and validate these findings on additional datasets[CO1.1]. [1] Heldt T et al, (2003) Comput Cardiol, 30:263–266 [2] Shaffer F, Ginsberg JP. (2017). Front Public Health,	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Bogar, Brenden	Hancock, C. Nathan	Designing and testing dTgm9-based activation tags for Glycine max View Full Text Abstract Text Transposable elements are DNA sequences that can be mobilized around the genome using a cut-and-paste mechanism. Tgm9, a CACTA family transposable element known to actively transpose in soybean (Glycine max), has been previously used for soybean gene discovery. Our goal is to develop Tgm9 into soybean-specific activation tags to allow for overexpression genes. A minimized variant of Tgm9, dTgm9, developed by the Hancock lab has transposition capacity and provides a more viable platform for Tgm9 transposon studies. Prior studies have identified a set of strong constitutive soybean promoters called GmScream. One of the strongest promoters identified in this set, GmScreamM4, includes a 5′ untranslated region containing an intron, but the relative contributions of the intron sequence and surrounding promoter elements remain unclear. All or part of the GmScreamM4 promoter were cloned into the dTgm9 transposon to create Tgm9-based activation tags. These activation tags will be evaluated for their ability to transpose using the yeast transposition assay. We will then evaluate their capacity to exhibit GFP expression in soybean hairy roots by introducing these constructs into Agrobacterium rhizogenes. These results will lay the foundation for efficient, soybean-specific activation tags and advance transposon-based genome engineering tools for soybean genome editing.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Wohlfeld, Christian	Fadel, Jim	Semaglutide Influences Hippocampal Neurochemistry in Young and Aged Rats View Full Text Abstract Text Several clinical trials have emerged to assess GLP-1 agonist effectiveness in various neurodegenerative diseases. However, because GLP-1 agonists were initially developed for other clinical indications, a coherent mechanistic understanding of GLP-1 agonists in this setting is currently lacking. In preclinical studies, GLP-1 agonists mitigate tau pathology and attenuate neuroinflammation—but a more detailed understanding of how GLP-1 agonists modulate neuronal function is poorly understood. In this research we broadly employed histological techniques to assess the acute activity of specific neuronal populations across various brain regions in young adult rats. This initial work highlighted several neuronal populations of interest with heightened neuronal activity including (I) orexin/hypocretin neurons in the lateral hypothalamus, (II) cocaine and amphetamine-related transcripts (CART) neurons in the habenula, and (III) cholinergic neurons in the medial septum of the basal forebrain. We also observed that semaglutide—but not vehicle administration—resulted in coactivation of orexin and cholinergic neurons of the medial septum, which is unsurprising given these neuronal populations are structurally and functionally interconnected and that semaglutide concentrates in the hypothalamus. Given that medial septum cholinergic neurons predominately send projections to the hippocampus, we next assessed acetylcholine efflux in the ventral hippocampus using in vivo microdialysis in freely moving young and aged rats treated with semaglutide and vehicle in a crossover design. Cholinergic neurotransmission in the hippocampus supports hippocampal-dependent learning and memory through several well-characterized mechanisms and becomes dysfunctional in both aging and neurodegeneration. In this work, we show that both young and aged rats exhibited an acute increase in acetylcholine efflux in the ventral hippocampus following intraperitoneally administered semaglutide. These results are interesting to consider given the outcome of recent clinical trials assessing oral semaglutide in the setting of mild cognitive impairment.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Gulczinski, Rachel	Tucker, Curisa Hickey, Patrick	Informed Consent in Childbirth: A Global Scoping Review of Episiotomy Practices and The Gaps in U.S. Perinatal Care View Full Text Abstract Text Purpose: The objective of this study was to examine the existing literature documenting whether informed consent is obtained for episiotomy procedures during childbirth. Background: Informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal component of perinatal care. Despite this, current evidence suggests that many childbirth interventions, including episiotomies, are often performed without explicit consent. Episiotomy remains highly associated with non-consented care and obstetric violence. Therefore, this scoping review aimed to evaluate whether informed consent is obtained for episiotomy, understand experiences of disrespect and overmedicalization, and identify gaps in U.S. practices. Methods: Following the PRISMA Scoping Review (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, peer-reviewed studies published in English from 2015 to 2025 were searched in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Eligible studies assessed informed consent practices and documented experiences of disrespectful care or unnecessary procedures during childbirth. Following full-text review, 17 studies were included in the final analysis and included data from 15 countries across Asia, Africa, North America, South America, and Europe. Results: Findings indicate global deficiencies in obtaining informed consent during childbirth interventions, including episiotomies, with some settings reporting non-consent rates as high as 40-70%. Additionally, many countries reported an episiotomy rate significantly higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended threshold of 10%, including Nigeria (62%), Ecuador (35.7%), and Hungary (62%). The deficiencies in consent and high episiotomy rates reflected in these studies indicate high rates of disrespect that lead to birth dissatisfaction, lack of perceived control, and poorer birth outcomes. Implications: This review demonstrates that non-consented and unnecessary obstetric interventions remain prevalent despite the recognition of the harms associated with routine episiotomy. The findings also highlight gaps in the standardization of informed consent practices, particularly within the United States. By analyzing global maternal healthcare systems, these findings identify gaps in care and provide the framework to improve informed consent procedures during labor.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Williams, Abigail	Poulain, Fabienne E.	Expression of Latrophilin-3 in the developing visual system in vivo View Full Text Abstract Text Precise wiring of neural circuits is critical for proper development and function of the central nervous system. In the visual system, dorsal and ventral retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) extend their axons toward the visual processing center known as the optic tectum in non-mammalian vertebrates. During development, some dorsal retinal axons initially misroute along the dorsal branch of the optic tract but then selectively and locally degenerate. Using zebrafish as a model, our previous work has shown that trans-axonal signaling initiated by pioneer ventral axons instructs the pruning of missorted axons in the optic tract. At the molecular level, Glypican-3 and Teneurin-3 located at the surface of ventral retinal axons signal to Latrophilin-3.1 (Lphn3.1) located at the surface of missorted dorsal axons. While these results point to a novel function of Lphn3.1 in axonal pruning, which specific domains of Lphn3.1 are required to instruct degeneration remain unknown. To address this question, we established several stable transgenic lines expressing Lphn3.1 (control) or Lphn3.1 variants fused to EGFP under the control of the RGC-specific promoter isl2b. Here, I analyzed three different alleles of Tg[isl2b:adgrl3.1-EGFP] expressing different levels of Lphn3.1-EGFP that may differentially impact retinotectal circuit development. Using RT-PCR, I quantified adgrl3.1-EGFP expression at 54 hours post-fertilization (hpf) and identified the line with the most robust and consistent expression. I then performed lipophilic dye injections in the dorsal retina of adgrl3.1-EGFP transgenic embryos and EGFP controls at 54 and 72 hpf to selectively label dorsal RGC axons. Confocal imaging of dorsal axons along the optic tract suggests that expressing different levels of Lphn3.1-EGFP differently affects the persistence of missorted dorsal axons within the optic tract, consistent with a role for Lphn3.1 in mediating selective axon degeneration. Future work will test whether expressing different Lphn3.1 variants triggers axon degeneration.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Thomas, Sandra Prince	Welshhans, Kristy	Altered local translation in Down Syndrome fibroblasts View Full Text Abstract Text Down syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by the triplication of human chromosome 21 (T21). It is characterized by developmental delays and intellectual disability. T21 causes genome-wide alterations, thereby dysregulating many physiological and molecular processes. One such dysregulated mechanism is local translation of mRNAs, which is critical for rapid protein synthesis in response to extracellular cues. Studies using various Down syndrome models have shown that global protein synthesis is decreased; however, little is known about how local mRNA translation in subcellular regions is affected. The fibroblast leading edge is highly dynamic, motile, and responds to various extracellular cues. Furthermore, previous work from our lab shows that Down syndrome fibroblasts have altered motility. Thus, we hypothesized that local translation is decreased in the leading edge of fibroblasts from individuals with Down syndrome. We performed a puromycin assay to fluorescently label newly synthesized proteins in fibroblasts from age- and sex-matched apparently healthy (Control) and Down syndrome (T21) individuals. Each group was starved in media lacking growth factors, and then stimulated with media containing either fetal bovine serum (FBS) or vehicle (without FBS), followed by puromycin treatment and fixation. In addition to puromycin, we stained for paxillin, which is a member of the focal adhesion complex where local translation occurs. Local translation in the leading edge of T21 fibroblasts was significantly decreased in both vehicle and FBS-stimulated conditions compared to Control fibroblasts. Interestingly, paxillin puncta in the leading edge were decreased in Control FBS-stimulated fibroblasts compared to Control vehicle fibroblasts. In contrast, paxillin density was significantly increased in the T21 FBS-stimulated group compared to the Control FBS-stimulated group. These data suggest that local translation and possibly adhesion turnover are dysregulated in T21 fibroblasts. These changes may underlie impaired cell motility, proteostasis, and other molecular pathways that contribute to Down syndrome pathology.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Taylor, Collin	Huynh, Tuyen	“When my child’s come to look for me for comfort. I didn’t used to pay attention to that before.”: Parents’ lived experiences and perceptions of the Circle of Security-Parenting Program View Full Text Abstract Text The Circle-of-Security Parenting (COS-P) Program is an 8-week parent-intervention program grounded in attachment theory. The program uses stock footage of parent-child interactions to showcase the cues a child may give, as well as aspects of the overall relationship. While widely implemented, especially internationally, the empirical research surrounding the program is limited. Much of this empirical research is quantitative, with few qualitative studies existing that documented parents’ lived experiences of participating in the COS-P program. In these existing studies, there are research gaps such as small sample sizes, participants outside of the United States, and the barriers that might prevent parent participation in the COS-P program. In this research study, we used a phenomenological qualitative approach to investigate the lived experiences of 34 parents who participated in the COS-P program in 2019. One-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with the aim of documenting the parent’s perception and potential barriers to participating in the COS-P program. A six-phase thematic analysis process was used to analyze the qualitative data, which generated central themes and related subthemes. The central themes include: (1) The Effectiveness of the COS-P Program, (2) Bigger, Stronger, Wiser, and (3) COS-P Accessibility. These findings support future COS-P research by including a focus on American parents, which has been previously less emphasized. The findings also point to ways in which COS-P programs and protocols can be strengthened. By highlighting participant-informed limitations, future COS-P programs can identify ways to improve the reach and impact of the program, which can include increasing group size, opportunities for live-feedback, more interactive activities, and including a focus for parents with older children.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kothari, Ria	Tang, Chuanbing Parris, Adam Abiodun, Alimi Hossain, Md Waliullah	Development of Antimicrobial Peptide Polymers to Combat Drug-Resistant Pathogens with Reduced Toxicity View Full Text Abstract Text With the increasing threat of infectious diseases on human health, there is an urgent need to develop antimicrobials that can target these pathogens. Antimicrobial peptide polymers that mimic host defense peptides are an emerging strategy to combat disease-causing microbes. These polymers utilize cationic functional groups, like those in host defense peptides, to disrupt the negatively charged membranes of microbes, inducing bacterial lysis. This non-specific mechanism of action contributes to the broad-spectrum activity of host-defense peptides and can limit resistance of pathogens to antimicrobial peptide polymers. However, the non-specific activity of the cations can cause it to target host cell membranes, leading to toxic effects on the body. Considering this, we aim to synthesize antimicrobial polymers that mimic host defense peptides with potent antimicrobial activity and minimal host toxicity. We used ring-opening polymerization of cationic amino acids to synthesize the polymers. Antimicrobial activity was measured using minimum inhibitory concentration assays. Synergistic effects of the polymers and current antibiotics were similarly assessed. Furthermore, we are developing methods of using these polymers to deliver traditional antibiotics to infection sites to localize the synergistic effect of the polymer and the antimicrobial. The interactions between the polymer and the antimicrobial facilitate simultaneous delivery of the molecules. The host toxicity and immunogenicity are also assessed. Additionally, the effectiveness of the delivery method to release the antimicrobial will be determined.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Yin, Yunhang	Shi, Dexin	DOUBLE TROUBLE: ASSESSING RMSEA WHEN JOINTLY HANDLING NONNORMALITY AND MISSING DATA View Full Text Abstract Text Evaluating model fit is a central task in structural equation modeling (SEM), and the Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) is among the most widely used indices. Although RMSEA can be estimated accurately under ideal conditions (e.g., complete data), such conditions are often unattainable in practice. In particular, non-normality and incomplete data complicate RMSEA estimation, yet limited work has examined their combined impact. This dissertation addresses this gap by evaluating several methods for estimating RMSEA under this “double trouble” context. A Monte Carlo simulation study was conducted to assess method performance with non-normal data and varying levels of incompleteness generated under a Missing at Random (MAR) mechanism. The design varied sample size, degree of model misspecification, and missing-data patterns to better reflect applied research complexity. Under non-normal complete data, both the BSL and Lai methods produced consistent RMSEA point estimates, with Lai’s interval estimation showing slightly better coverage. Under non-normal missing data, FIMLZS2, TSZS, TSLai, MIBSL, and MILai generally yielded consistent point estimates and accurate interval estimates when incompleteness was small to moderate (15%–25%) and sample sizes were large (N > 500). Under substantial missingness (50%), performance varied markedly as a function of the non-normal data-generation algorithm and the missing-data pattern. Across conditions, FIMLBSL tended to underestimate RMSEA and is not recommended. Overall, accurate RMSEA estimation in double trouble settings requires methods that explicitly address both distributional violations and missing-data patterns. Practical recommendations are offered to guide applied researchers in selecting appropriate RMSEA estimation strategies and to motivate future methodological development.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Mitchell, Emerson	Rizos, Dimitris	RVTI Derailment Simulations Based on Incomplete Field Data View Full Text Abstract Text Train derailments result in financial losses, personal injuries, and even loss of life with significant environmental and public health impacts. One major root cause of derailments is attributed to the dynamic interaction between a moving train and the supporting track in the presence of defects in the track and/or rolling stock. One derailment mitigation approach is predicting train-track interaction forces through computer simulations. Existing vehicle–track interaction (VTI) simulators typically require a tradeoff between computational efficiency and model fidelity and often simplify or omit spatial variation in track conditions. Rapid VTI (RVTI) is a high-fidelity computer simulation tool, developed at USC that captures spatially varying track conditions at substantially reduced computational cost. RVTI, however, requires inputs that are not reported in routine inspection and track-geometry data, forcing literature—or experience—based assumptions. This study addresses this gap by quantifying the impact of assumed parameters on derailment-potential predictions, by identifying the most critical parameters, and providing evidence-based estimates for those based on available field data. The objectives of the proposed work are to: (I) qualify the relative importance of the unspecified RVTI model parameters in accuracy and efficiency of simulations, (II) use accident reports to demonstrate and validate the use of calibrated RVTI models to predict derailments, (III) use the RVTI simulator within a parametric study framework to develop training datasets for future Machine Learning (ML) implementation. Early work on this project has established baseline values and ranges for several unspecified RVTI model parameters. A Monte Carlo-based analysis has also been established and tested on a simplified proxy model. Current effort includes running RVTI within the Monte Carlo analysis framework to quantify the most impactful parameters and using the information from those simulations in a parametric sensitivity study, to measure the importance and higher-order interactions of parameters.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Chattha, Aleena	Arjmandi, Meisam Ashjaei, Samin Fridriksson, Julius Bonilha, Leonardo Neils-Strunjas, Jean Newman-Norlund, Roger	Cognitive Performance in Older Adults With and Without Hearing Loss and With Hearing Aids View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is one of the most prevalent health conditions worldwide and a major modifiable risk factor for dementia. While hearing aids (HAs) improve audibility, it remains uncertain whether amplification mitigates the association between ARHL and cognitive decline. This study examines whether HA users maintain comparable cognitive performance to untreated adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss and those with normal hearing. Method: Adults aged ≥ 50 in the Aging Brain Cohort at the University of South Carolina completed pure-tone audiometry (PTA) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) tests. Hearing status was defined using unaided PTA thresholds and use of HA as normal-hearing (PTA ≤ 20 dB HL), untreated hearing loss (PTA > 20 dB HL), or HA user. Group differences in PTA and MoCA scores were compared across groups using linear regression models controlling for age, gender, education, and unaided PTA. Results: PTA thresholds differed significantly across hearing-status groups. HA users exhibited the poorest unaided hearing sensitivity. After adjusting for demographic factors and unaided PTA, MoCA scores did not differ between HA users and untreated individuals and or relative to the normal-hearing control group. Conclusions: In our cross-sectional sample, HA users demonstrated cognitive performance comparable to both untreated and normal-hearing adults, despite substantially poorer hearing sensitivity. Present findings suggest that HA users do not show disproportionate cognitive disadvantage after accounting for demographics and hearing sensitivity. Ongoing analyses will further assess how HA users and untreated older adults differ from the reference group to examine potential mechanisms supporting cognitive maintenance.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Fernandez, Ademar	Frost, Dan	Crustal Structure Underneath South Carolina Determined by Receiver Functions View Full Text Abstract Text Following the 27 December 2021 Mw=3.3 Elgin–Lugoff earthquake in South Carolina (SC), a swarm of small-magnitude earthquakes has been consistently occurring in the area. The cause of the Elgin–Lugoff swarm is the subject of ongoing research. SC is a geologically complex region formed by the accretion of multiple terranes, resulting in a diverse array of crustal configurations across the state. In this study we analyze the crustal structure of SC from the coast to the Appalachians, across the Eastern Piedmont Fault System (EPFS), which marks a tectonic boundary between the predominantly sedimentary southeast and the cratonic northwest of the state. We calculated teleseismic receiver functions (RFs) from a dataset of 1,285 Mw>=5.5 earthquakes recorded between 2012 and 2023 by 42 seismic stations across SC. We generate synthetic RFs and construct velocity models that minimize the misfit to the observed data using a Metropolis-Hasting Markov chain Monte Carlo (MH-McMC). We correct for sediment reverberations in RFs from stations located atop the sedimentary layers of the Atlantic Coastal Plain. We produce a collection of probabilistic Vs–depth KDE profiles from the surface to the Moho beneath each station. Our preliminary findings suggest that the crust at the coast is ~28 km thick, increasing rapidly toward the northwest and reaching ~54 beneath the edge of the Appalachians over a distance of roughly 465 km. We identify significant variations in crustal structure beneath the Elgin seismic swarm relative to surrounding stations, indicating that the swarm is underlain by a distinct crustal configuration. These structural differences suggest that the swarm may be influenced by localized geological processes. By providing a station-scale characterization of crustal structure, our results improve constraints on earthquake location in South Carolina and offer new insights into the composition and heterogeneity of its major terranes.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Shanks, Alexandria	Porcu, Alessandra	Effect of Photoperiod on Astrocytes in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus View Full Text Abstract Text Astrocytes are widely expressed throughout the nervous system, where they regulate neuronal activity and neuroplasticity. In the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), astrocytes contribute to circadian timekeeping via glutamatergic signaling. Changes in astrocyte number have been observed in the hippocampus following long photoperiod exposure, suggesting that astrocyte alterations might represent a homeostatic response to seasonal changes in the light environment. However, whether photoperiod alters astrocyte numbers and functions within the SCN remains unknown. To address this gap, we exposed adult mice to 2 weeks of either long photoperiod (19L:5D) or short photoperiod (5L:19D). We first assessed photoperiod effects on SCN astrocyte numbers by analyzing glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression, a structural marker of astrocytes. Quantification along the anterior-posterior axis revealed that GFAP-immunoreactive cell numbers were greater in long versus short photoperiods within the medial SCN. Astrocytes regulate extracellular glutamate clearance through excitatory amino acid transporters (EAAT1 and EAAT2). We therefore tested whether photoperiod altered astrocyte function by quantifying Eaat1 and Eaat2 expression. Using in situ hybridization, we found decreased Eaat1 expression in the SCN after long photoperiod exposure. Additionally, both photoperiods shifted the phase of Eaat1 expression in astrocytes. Astrocytes also mediate GABA uptake through GABA transporter-3 (GAT3). Using in situ hybridization, we found that both long and short photoperiods dampened Gat3 rhythms in astrocytes. Curiously, Eaat1 and Gat3 displayed antiphase expression patterns under short photoperiod conditions. Altogether, these data suggest that astrocyte organization and extracellular neurotransmitter regulation may represent a previously unidentified mechanism through which the SCN adapts to seasonal photoperiod changes, contributing to seasonal plasticity.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Imhoff, Conor	Tompkins, Renarta	Building Automaticity: The Impact of Orthographic Mapping and Guided Repeated Reading on Third-Grade Fluency View Full Text Abstract Text This study examines the impact of a small-group fluency intervention designed to increase reading automaticity through orthographic mapping and guided repeated reading. Conducted over nine weeks in a third-grade classroom, the intervention maintained a consistent instructional routine while allowing for data-driven adjustments based on student performance. Three students were selected based on running records and classroom observations. Although decoding accuracy ranged from 93% to 97.5%, all students demonstrated fluency inefficiencies, including frequent hesitations, word-by-word reading, inconsistent phrasing, and difficulty maintaining place in text. Baseline oral reading rates ranged from 93 to 146 Words Correct Per Minute (WCPM). Instruction focused on strengthening automatic word recognition by reinforcing connections between phonology, orthography, and meaning. Progress monitoring was conducted weekly using one-minute cold reads from previously unseen grade-level passages. Measures included WCPM, accuracy, and hesitation frequency. The instructional goal was for students to increase reading rate by approximately 20 WCPM while maintaining at least 95% accuracy and demonstrating reduced hesitation. This study provides classroom-based evidence on the effectiveness of structured, brief fluency intervention to support increased reading efficiency and automatic word recognition.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Gupta, Gourab	Chen, Hexin	Understanding the intracellular role of IL1α in regulation of immune suppressive myeloid cells in breast cancer View Full Text Abstract Text Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent and deadly malignancies worldwide. The tumor microenvironment (TME) critically shapes tumor progression and immune regulation through cytokine signaling. Among these, interleukin-1 alpha (IL1α) is a key mediator of breast cancer–associated immunosuppression. We initially identified IL1α produced by CX3CR1⁺ macrophage subset within the TME. Deletion of IL1α reduced tumor growth and depleted this population, suggesting IL1α-driven myeloid reprogramming. We hypothesize that IL1α deficiency reprograms myeloid differentiation from monocyte-derived suppressive macrophages to inflammatory macrophage. An in vitro bone marrow–derived macrophage (BMDM) model from wild-type (WT) and IL1α knockout (KO) mice was used to assess IL1α-dependent differentiation. Flow cytometry and qPCR characterized CD11b⁺CD11c⁺MHCII⁺ subsets and quantified inflammatory (iNOS, CD80) versus inhibitory (Arginase-1, CD206) markers. Functional assays, including T-cell proliferation and MDSC activity, evaluated immunoregulatory capacity. Seahorse analysis and mass spectrometry assessed mitochondrial metabolism and electron transport chain (ETC) integrity. IL1α KO BMDMs showed reduced F4/80 and CX3CR1 expression, a shift from CD11b⁺CD11c⁺MHCII^low to MHCII^high cells upon LPS activation, decreased inhibitory markers, and elevated inflammatory mediators. These macrophages exhibited reduced T-cell suppression and MDSC activity. Neutralization of extracellular IL1α in WT cells did not reproduce KO effects, supporting an intracellular role. IL1α loss impaired oxidative phosphorylation, and peptide inhibitor blocking IL1α mitochondrial localization reproduced this phenotype. Our results show IL1α as a regulator of mitochondrial metabolism and myeloid differentiation. By stabilizing the ETC, IL1α sustains immunosuppressive macrophages, whereas its loss promotes inflammatory, anti-tumor myelopoiesis, identifying IL1α as a potential therapeutic target in breast cancer	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Witt, Corbin	Pocivavsek, Ana Milosavljevic, Snezana	Perinatal Choline Supplementation Attenuates Reversal Learning Deficits in Rats Exposed to Elevated Kynurenic Acid during Neurodevelopment View Full Text Abstract Text Gestational insults are associated with increased risk for neurodevelopmental disorders and long-lasting cognitive dysfunction in offspring. Kynurenic acid (KYNA), a metabolite of the kynurenine pathway, is elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid and postmortem brain tissue of individuals with schizophrenia, which has neurodevelopmental origins. Cholinergic neurotransmission, critical for cognitive development, can be modulated by KYNA, an endogenous antagonist of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine (α7nACh) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. To model prenatal KYNA elevation, we employed an embryonic kynurenine (EKyn) paradigm in rats, in which maternal kynurenine administration during the last week of gestation elevates KYNA levels in the developing fetal brain. We hypothesized that perinatal supplementation of choline, an essential nutrient and selective α7nACh receptor agonist during development, mitigates adverse cognitive outcomes in adult EKyn offspring. Dams were assigned to one of four diets: ECon (control diet), EKyn (control diet laced with 100 mg/day kynurenine), choline (5-fold higher choline content compared to control), and choline EKyn (choline diet laced with 100 mg/day kynurenine). Choline supplementation continued in postnatal development until offspring were weaned. Adult offspring (postnatal day 56-85) were trained to find an escape box during spatial learning in the Barnes maze for four consecutive days, and tested on cognitive flexibility in a reversal trial, wherein the escape box was rotated 180 degrees. Preliminary results indicate significant differences between the final learning trial and the reversal trial, suggesting a prefrontal cortex–dependent impairment in cognitive flexibility. Specifically, EKyn offspring exhibited impaired adaptation to the new escape location, reflected by increased escape latency, distance travelled, and errors during reversal relative to final learning trial. Choline EKyn offspring showed improvement across these metrics, suggesting a protective effect of the choline supplementation. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that choline supplementation during the critical neurodevelopmental period improves on the cognitive impairment induced by prenatal KYNA elevation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Jaeger, Sierra	LoPresti, Eric Stoj, Kiley Stessman, Madison Darby, Addison DiMarco, Madison Kadau, Lena	Multiple biotic agents drive annual variation in selection on flower pigmentation in Abronia fragrans View Full Text Abstract Text Understanding how multiple selective agents jointly shape trait evolution remains a central challenge in evolutionary ecology. Floral traits are influenced by interacting biotic pressures, including pollinators and herbivores, yet their respective and combined effects are rarely quantified across time. Because the strength and direction of selection can vary seasonally—particularly in environments with high intra- and interannual climatic variability—selection on floral traits may be dynamic and at times opposing. We examined selection on floral pigmentation in a northern Texas population of Abronia fragrans (sweet sand verbena), a species in which floral pigmentation is heritable and continuously variable among individuals, between nearly white and deep pink. Over four years, we quantified floral pigmentation, pollination, florivory, and leaf herbivory. Using diel pollinator exclusion experiments and natural variation in individual flowering phenology and patch floral display, we estimated overall, diurnal, and nocturnal pollinator, as well as herbivore, selection. We found that both pollinators and herbivores impose variable selection on floral pigmentation, with the presence, magnitude, and sign of selection differing among years. These results indicate that interacting biotic agents can generate temporally dynamic—and potentially opposing—selection on a single floral trait. Our findings highlight the importance of multi-year studies for understanding how fluctuating ecological conditions shape evolutionary trajectories in natural populations.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Kral, Marsh	Tang, Chuanbing Hossain, Md Waliullah	Investigating the Antibacterial Activity of a Cationic Metallopolymer View Full Text Abstract Text Antibiotic resistance as a global health crisis has necessitated the development of effective drug candidates with alternative mechanisms. Host-defense peptides are part of the innate immune system and serve as one of the first lines of defense against pathogens, but their therapeutic applications are limited by cost and scalability. However, cationic metallopolymers (or metal-containing polymers) offer a unique approach in that they may act independently or in complement with traditional antibiotics and functionally mimic natural, host defense peptides. The cobaltocenium (CC) cationic unit in these polymers is composed of a positively charged cobalt center surrounded by two hydrophobic cyclopentadiene rings, allowing it to interact with bacterial membranes and biofilms. Most recently, this CC motif was incorporated into the polymer backbone to yield a main chain cationic polymer, where a marked increase in potency was observed compared to its side chain counterpart. Investigations into the mechanism by which the main chain polymer acts were conducted, as well as a thorough investigation of its antibacterial activity. Studies revealed that the main chain polymer depolarizes and permeabilizes the membrane and kills both gram-positive and gram-negative species within minutes to an hour. A decrease in biofilm biomass was observed in treatment groups, and biofilm embedded bacterial cells were found to be significantly reduced. Additionally, multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria did not develop any resistance to the polymer over the course of 21 days. These results demonstrate the potential of cationic metallopolymers as a novel class of drug candidates for MDR-bacterial infections and provide insight into the structure-activity relationship of cationic metallopolymers.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Yadav, Shashwat	Lee, Junsoo	Hybrid Modeling and Robust Operation of Multirotor UAVs with Retractable Tether View Full Text Abstract Text Multirotor unmanned aerial vehicles (MUAVs) are adaptable and cost-effective platforms for missions such as payload transportation, environmental monitoring, and search and rescue. A retractable tethered MUAV (RTMUAV), equipped with a pulley-tether system connected to the UAV, extends this capability by enabling sensor deployment while hovering over hazardous or inaccessible terrains, including disaster zones and urban structures. However, unlike a rigid link, a tether alternates between slack and taut states, each governed by distinct dynamics. Transitions between these states introduce impulsive dynamics that can destabilize the vehicle, particularly under external disturbances such as wind gusts or obstacle contact. Accurate simulation and reliable control therefore require capturing both tether regimes and modeling their transitions smoothly. Although existing literature highlights the slack–taut distinction, it generally lacks a unified framework for robustly handling these transitions. This project addresses this gap by developing a robust, adaptive control framework and simulation environment that captures realistic tether dynamics, with a particular focus on nonlinear behaviors during slack–taut transitions. Using a Simulink simulation environment, we represented both slack and taut tether conditions. Transitions were determined by the difference between the tether length and the distance between the UAV and payload, as well as the change in this distance, followed by two distinct sets of equations modeling the slack and taut responses. To mitigate unnecessary slack–taut transitions after liftoff, a minimum-jerk trajectory was generated and tested, providing a stable baseline and benchmark against which non-minimum-jerk trajectories could be evaluated. This framework will be extended for non-optimized trajectories. While minimum-jerk trajectories provide stability, they do not capture real-world demands. MUAVs with suspended payloads may perform aggressive, high-jerk maneuvers that intensify slack-taut transitions and nonlinear dynamics. Simulating these conditions evaluates robustness and ensures reliable RTMUAV control beyond idealized smooth paths, enabling performance for emergent and constrained tasks.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Pham, Kylie	Torres-Mcgehee, Toni	Examination Of Energy Availability And Sleep Quality Among Physically Active ROTC Males View Full Text Abstract Text Low energy availability (LEA) from inadequate fueling can impair sleep, recovery, cognition, and overall readiness. Micronutrients such as magnesium, zinc, vitamin B6, vitamin D, and iron are critical for sleep, metabolism, and bone health. PURPOSE: To examine the relationship between energy availability (EA), sleep quality, and micronutrient intake in physically active ROTC males. METHODS: Fourteen male ROTC cadets (n=14; age: 19±0.67 years; height: 176.1±6.6 cm; weight: 76.9±11.0 kg) participated in a cross-sectional, free-living study. Participants completed a demographic survey and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Height, weight, body composition were recorded. Exercise energy expenditure (EEE) and total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) were tracked for 7 days using Polar Ignite watches. Dietary intake was self-reported via a food log. LEA was defined as < 30 kcal/kg of fat-free mass (FFM) per day. Descriptive, Crosstabulations and Chi-square tests evaluated the relationship among LEA, sleep and micronutrient intake. RESULTS: Sixty-four percent (n=9) were at risk for LEA and 85.7% (n=12) reporting poor sleep. Among those with LEA, 88.9% (n=8/9) also exhibited poor sleep. Macronutrient analysis showed that 85.7% (n=12) consumed below CHO recommendations, 35.7% (n=5) below protein, and 64.3% (n=9) exceeded fat intake recommendations. Excess saturated fat consumption (>10% kcal) was found in 85.7% (n=12). Micronutrient analysis revealed widespread deficiencies: all cadets (100%, n=14) consumed below recommended intakes for magnesium and vitamin D, 75% (n=9/12) of those with poor sleep were below recommendations for vitamin B6, 16.7% (n=2/12) were below for zinc, and 8.3% (n=1/12) for iron. Among cadets with poor sleep, 100% demonstrated inadequate magnesium and vitamin D intake. CONCLUSIONS: Male ROTC cadets demonstrated high rates of LEA, poor sleep, and key micronutrient deficiencies, particularly magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6, compromising recovery and metabolic function. Targeted nutrition education and monitoring are critical to optimize readiness.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Tucker, Hannah Dingus, Linda	Harris, Eboni	Evaluating the Impact of Bedside Shift Reporting on Patient Safety Outcomes View Full Text Abstract Text Patient safety events, including medication errors, miscommunication, and preventable adverse events, remain a significant concern in acute care settings. Ineffective handoff communication during shift change is a major contributor to these events. Bedside shift report is a patient-centered strategy designed to improve communication accuracy, enhance accountability, and involve patients in their care. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of bedside shift report in reducing safety events and improving safety-related outcomes. Objectives include analyzing its influence on fall rates, medication errors, patient satisfaction, and nurse-to-nurse communication. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using CINAHL, PubMed, and Wiley Online Library. Search terms included “bedside shift report,” “nursing handoff,” “patient safety,” “falls,” and “medication errors.” The search was limited to peer-reviewed, English-language, full-text articles published between 2020 and 2025. The initial search yielded 42 articles. After excluding duplicate records, non-hospital settings, pediatric-only populations, and studies not measuring safety outcomes, 10 quantitative, qualitative, and quality improvement studies were selected for review. Evidence suggests that incorporating bedside shift reporting strengthens safety culture and improves patient outcomes, including reductions in patient fall rates and medication errors. Healthcare organizations should adopt structured handoff tools and provide staff education to support consistent and sustained safety improvements.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Genie, Taylor	Bartmess, Marissa	Understanding Alarm Fatigue: Contributing Factors and Coping Mechanisms in Nursing View Full Text Abstract Text Alarm fatigue occurs when excessive exposure to clinical alarms leads to desensitization, resulting in missed alarms or delayed responses. As alarm use continues to increase in healthcare settings, alarm fatigue has become a well-recognized patient safety concern, particularly in nursing practice where clinicians are exposed to frequent auditory alerts. The purpose of this study was to examine nurses’ experiences with alarm fatigue and to identify adaptive and maladaptive strategies used to cope with alarm fatigue in clinical settings. A narrative review of qualitative literature was conducted using one electronic database to identify relevant literature published between 2022 and 2026. Search terms included alarm fatigue, alarm desensitization, alarm safety, nursing safety, and related keywords. A total of four articles were reviewed, including studies form nursing and medical journals. The selected literature was analyzed to identify common themes related to causes, contributing factors, and coping strategies associated with alarm fatigue. The synthesis revealed multiple contributing factors to alarm fatigue, including high alarm frequency non-actionable alarms, and environmental stressors. Both adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies were identified. Practical interventions to reduce alarm fatigue may improve nurse responsiveness and enhance patient safety outcomes.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Smith, Ellison	Christ, Christa	EXAMINING THE ROLE OF HUMOR STYLES AND MATING CONTEXTS ON MATE DESIRABILITY View Full Text Abstract Text Humor plays a critical role in facilitating group cohesion and reducing social tensions. Examining humor from an evolutionary perspective may explain why individuals are attracted to certain humor styles and how these preferences shape humor perceptions. Sexual selection has contributed to consistent patterns: women prefer men who produce humor, whereas men often prefer women who appreciate it. Preferences also vary across humor styles, with affiliative and self‑deprecating humor generally viewed as more attractive. Despite extensive research on these dimensions, little work has examined preferences for clean versus dirty humor. Humor styles may also differ across mating contexts due to their signal of parental investment levels. Medlin et al. (2018) remains the only study to directly investigate this distinction, finding that clean humor was preferred overall across both short‑term (STM) and long‑term (LTM) mating contexts, but it was especially appealing for LTM contexts, which aligns with evolutionary theory, as dirty humor signals potentially lower likelihood of parental investment. To further examine this relationship in our current study, participants were placed in a hypothetical date scenario, in which they are invited to view a comedy performance, and learned that the hypothetical date has the same humor style (clean or dirty) as the comedian. Participants then rated their willingness to engage further with this date under both STM and LTM contexts. Participants also completed questionnaires relevant to dating, humor preferences, life history, and demographics. Data collection is ongoing. Analyses will be conducted to examine dating interest across humor styles and mating contexts. This study contributes to previous literature by identifying if there is a preference for clean vs. dirty humor across both STM and LTM contexts, as well as opening new avenues to explore this relationship across gender and life history strategies.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Chrif, Sarah	Roberts, Jane Arnold, Holley	Early RSA Reactivity as a Predictor of ADHD Symptoms in Children with Fragile X Syndrome View Full Text Abstract Text Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability and is frequently associated with difficulties in emotion regulation and increased attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms (Grefer et al., 2016). While prior research has found that early cardiac activity predicts later autistic behaviors in FXS (Roberts et al., 2012), it remains unclear whether early autonomic regulation specifically predicts later ADHD symptom severity. Increasing evidence suggests that atypical parasympathetic functioning may contribute to emotion regulation and attentional difficulties (Beauchaine & Thayer, 2015; Klusek et al., 2013). This project examines respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), a heart rate variability measure indexing parasympathetic nervous system activity. RSA was measured during the Laboratory Temperament Assessment Battery (Lab-TAB) arm restraint task (Goldsmith & Rothbart, 1994) in children with FXS between 12-24 months of age. During this task, children were first allowed to play with a toy before being gently restrained by a parent while the toy is visible but out of reach, eliciting frustration. RSA reactivity was calculated as the difference between baseline play and the frustration condition, with decreases in RSA reflecting parasympathetic withdrawal. ADHD symptoms at preschool age (3-6 years) are assessed using the Preschool Age Psychiatric Assessment, a structured parent interview measuring DSM-based ADHD symptoms in young children (Egger & Angold, 2006). We hypothesize that blunted RSA withdrawal from baseline during the frustration task will be associated with greater ADHD symptom severity at preschool age. The current sample will include approximately 25 children with FXS. Regression analyses will be conducted to examine the relationship between early RSA reactivity and later ADHD symptom severity. By characterizing early autonomic reactivity in FXS, this project aims to better understand the biological mechanisms underlying regulatory difficulties in this population. Identifying early physiological markers may help clarify developmental processes linked to later attentional and behavioral challenges.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hammer, William Krishna, Nikhil	Zand, Ramtin Grenier, Matthew	Node-wise Feature Encoding for Neural Performance Prediction View Full Text Abstract Text As neural networks are increasingly deployed on resource constrained edge devices, accurate prediction of latency and energy is critical for efficient neural architecture search. Existing GNN and transformer based predictors achieve strong results but largely ignore node-level computational cost, limiting their ability to model performance critical operations. To address this, we introduce FeatureFormer, a neural performance predictor that incorporates explicit node-wise encodings of FLOPs, parameter counts, and memory proxies within a gated graph attention architecture. We also present NNEQ, a new large-scale energy consumption dataset that enables unified evaluation of latency and energy prediction. Extensive experiments demonstrate that FeatureFormer achieves state-of-the-art performance across both metrics, including challenging out-of-domain settings. Finally, we show that the proposed encoding is broadly applicable and consistently improves existing predictors with negligible overhead.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Gage, Ashlyn McClain, Brooke	Souza, Jefferson	Enhancing Awareness: Educating Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists on Diversion Risk Factors View Full Text Abstract Text Substance use disorder among anesthesia providers is a significant yet often overlooked issue, with an estimated 10–15% of professionals affected during their careers (Rupprecht, 2022). This project aimed to enhance awareness and understanding of diversion risk factors among Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists at the University of South Carolina. Using a quasi-experimental pre- and post-test design, an educational intervention combined evidence-based literature with a firsthand account from an expert witness to deliver a comprehensive learning experience. Results showed significant improvements in Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists’ knowledge, confidence, and preparedness to recognize and address substance abuse and drug diversion. These findings support the importance of incorporating targeted substance abuse education into nurse anesthesia training programs. Limitations and future research directions are discussed, emphasizing the need for ongoing, longitudinal studies to sustain educational impact and promote safer clinical practice. All project participation was voluntary and anonymous, and informed consent was obtained before survey completion to ensure all participants' ethical protection.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Myers, Anna Bowser, Cierah	Harris, Eboni	Healing Beyond the Bedside: Recycling Non-Biohazardous Medical Waste in Hospital Units View Full Text Abstract Text Hospitals generate substantial amounts of non-biohazardous medical waste that is frequently disposed of as hazardous waste, thereby increasing environmental burdens and healthcare costs. Recyclable materials such as IV bags, tubing and packaging contribute significantly to landfill waste when not properly segregated. This issue has important implications for nursing practice, sustainability, and cost management, particularly in high-volume clinical areas. We plan to look at the Emergency Department and the Neuroscience/Stroke unit for data collection. The purpose of this evidence-based review was to evaluate the feasibility and benefits of implementing targeted recycling programs and to examine differences in waste management practices across hospital units. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar using search terms including "hospital waste recycling," "medical waste management," and "healthcare sustainability." Peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025, including systematic reviews and observational studies, were analyzed. Evidence demonstrates that structured recycling programs reduce waste disposal costs, decrease environmental impact and improve waste segregation efficiency across clinical units. Findings support implementing targeted recycling protocols and staff education initiatives to promote sustainable and cost-effective hospital waste management practices.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Strambu, Adina	Roberts, Jane Arnold, Holley	Sensory Processing and Anxiety Subtypes in Children with Fragile X Syndrome View Full Text Abstract Text Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is caused by a mutation in the FMR1 gene on the X chromosome and is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability. Sensory processing differences and anxiety are particularly prevalent and tend to emerge in early childhood. Notably, 70–86% of individuals with FXS meet diagnostic criteria for at least one anxiety disorder (Smith et al., 2021). Despite the co-occurrence of sensory difficulties, anxiety, and intellectual disability, the link between these domains has not been sufficiently studied. The present study examined associations between sensory processing and anxiety subtypes in children with FXS, while considering the potential influence of cognitive abilities. Participants included 47 3–6-year-olds (M = 5.06, SD = 1.08) with FXS. Caregivers completed the Sensory Experiences Questionnaire to assess sensory hyperreactivity, hyporeactivity, and sensory seeking. The Preschool Anxiety Scale–Revised was used to measure separation anxiety, social anxiety, specific phobias, and total anxiety. Nonverbal IQ (NVIQ) was also evaluated. Correlations were conducted to examine associations between sensory processing and anxiety subtypes, followed by partial correlations controlling for Nonverbal IQ for significant associations. Results indicated that only sensory hyperreactivity was significantly positively associated with specific phobias (r = .40, p = .006) and no other anxiety subtypes (ps ≥ .135). The association between sensory hyperreactivity and specific phobia remained significant after controlling for NVIQ (r = .37, p = .012). However, hyporeactivity (ps ≥ .188) and sensory seeking (ps ≥ .161) were not significantly associated with any anxiety subtype. Overall, findings suggest that sensory hyperreactivity may contribute specifically to specific phobias. This pattern may reflect heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli, such as loud noises or unfamiliar settings, that may amplify fear responses. Early interventions targeting sensory hyperreactivity may help reduce the severity of phobia-related anxiety in children with FXS.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Heuer, Andrew	Tang, Hengtao	AimVR : Artificial Intelligence Enabled Multiplayer Virtual Reality Game for K-12 STEM Classrooms View Full Text Abstract Text Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) holds significant promise for advancing teaching and learning practices, particularly when Artificial Intelligence (AI) is integrated. IVR offers experiential, embodied learning environments that can increase engagement, accessibility, and social presence, while AI systems enable adaptive guidance, personalized feedback, and dynamic interaction. This combination of IVR and AI, especially in multiplayer contexts, thus provides an immersive, intelligent learning environment that emphasizes collaboration and problem-solving. To facilitate student learning in K-12 classrooms, it is critical for IVR platforms to support online multiplayer interaction, through AI integration and flexibly align educational content with experimental adaptability. Therefore, we present AimVR, an AI-enabled Multiplayer VR platform designed to support collaborative learning in K-12 STEM classrooms. AimVR allows geographically distributed participants to enter a shared virtual environment in which they work together to solve physics-based puzzles requiring communication, coordination, and conceptual reasoning. An LLM-driven assistant is integrated to provide a real-time game context that delivers dynamic, context-sensitive hints upon request. This design supports autonomous exploration and guided learning. To facilitate seamless AI-user interaction, AimVR’s design prioritizes interpretability and clarity. Gameplay elements are structured around simple, visually distinct cues (e.g., color and shape patterns). This enables AI to efficiently parse game rules and constraints from visual input and provide precise, context-sensitive guidance. This approach ensures that AI assistance supports intuitive exploration and targeted problem-solving without disrupting immersive learning experience. Beyond its instructional features, AimVR is built as a modular and extensible research platform. It includes development tools that enable rapid creation and modification of levels, and allows researchers to tailor the system to diverse experimental paradigms and accessibility needs. By combining collaborative IVR with adaptive AI assistance in a customizable framework, AimVR provides a novel infrastructure for investigating educational outcomes, social interaction, and cognitive processes in immersive digital environments.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Wang, Juan	Shapiro, Cheri Corbin, Dianne	The Interplay among Home-based Child Care Provider Depressive Symptoms, Perceived Professional Support, and Use of Expulsion: A Mixed Methods Study View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Expulsion is a significant barrier to equitable access to early care and education for many U.S. children, yet provider-level factors linked to expulsion in home-based child care (HBCC) settings serving infants and toddlers remain understudied. Methods: We used an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. Phase I involved a secondary analysis of the 2019 National Survey of Early Care and Education HBCC provider survey (N = 4,372). We first used categorical principal components analysis (CATPCA) to identify key dimensions of professional support. We then used multivariable logistic regression to examine whether providers’ depressive symptoms and professional support were associated with their use of expulsion, adjusting for covariates, and tested whether the association between professional support and expulsion differed by levels of providers’ depressive symptoms. Phase II consisted of semi-structured interviews with South Carolina HBCC providers (N = 7), analyzed using thematic analysis aligned with our key constructs. Results: Expulsion prevalence was highest among listed HBCC providers (12.4%), compared with unlisted paid (5.0%) and unlisted unpaid providers (1.5%). Among listed providers, CATPCA supported a two-component structure of professional support, explaining 72.2% of total variance: formal supports (61.3%; Cronbach’s α = .60) and community of practice (10.9%; Cronbach’s α = .40). Only formal supports were carried forward as a composite index in logistic regression models. We found that formal supports and depressive symptoms were not significantly associated with expulsion; no moderation was detected. Qualitative findings suggested that HBCC providers’ well-being strain often stemmed from working alone and managing emotionally demanding days, that the most valued supports were relational and “navigation-focused”, and that expulsion was frequently described as ending care due to family–provider conflicts rather than child behavior alone. Conclusions: Our mixed-methods approach added in-depth contextualization and illuminated multilevel determinants of HBCC expulsion, guiding more targeted prevention strategies.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Tomlin, Nichelle	Harris, Eboni	Effectiveness of Bedside Shift Report in Reducing Patient Falls and Improving Patient Safety View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Patient falls are a persistent patient safety concern in acute care settings and are associated with increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. Ineffective communication during nurse handoffs has been identified as a contributing factor to fall-related events. Bedside shift report (BSR) is an evidence-based nursing practice that promotes direct communication, patient engagement, and real-time safety assessments during shift change, making it a significant strategy for improving patient safety outcomes. Purpose: The purpose of this evidence-based practice project was to examine the effectiveness of bedside shift report in reducing patient falls and improving overall patient safety. Objectives included reviewing current evidence related to BSR, identifying its impact on fall reduction, and evaluating its role in enhancing communication and safety practices. Methods: A literature search was conducted using CINAHL, PubMed, and Cochrane Library databases. Search terms included bedside shift reports, patient falls, nursing handoff, and patient safety. Articles published between 2018 and 2024 were reviewed. Filters included peer-reviewed studies and English language. A total of 12 articles, including systematic reviews and quantitative studies, were analyzed. Results: The evidence demonstrates that bedside shift reports improve communication, increase nurse accountability, and enhance fall risk awareness, leading to a reduction in patient falls. Implementation of BSR is recommended as a nursing leadership strategy to strengthen patient safety and support a culture of safe, patient centered care.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Szilveszter, Allaina Colino, Ainhoa	Roach, Alexandra	Observable Differences in Physiological Markers of Respiratory Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Deep Breathing Mindfulness Training View Full Text Abstract Text Deep breathing exercises, a core component of mindfulness practices, stimulate the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve innervates the majority of nerves in the parasympathetic nervous system, stimulation of this nerve pair can influence widespread processes including heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and pain perception. In this study, we used Biopac Bionomadix wireless transmitters to collect physiological data including electrocardiogram, electrodermal activity, electromyography, respiration, and pulse during a stress test. In this within-subjects design, we used a TENS unit to introduce stress in the form of mechanical pain via transdermal electrical stimulation to establish participants' pain threshold and pain tolerance. Perceived pain was measured using the Visual Analog Scale and the McGill Pain Questionnaire at baseline, during vagal nerve stimulation (or control), and post intervention. Participants will select the words that best describe their current pain, which will then be scored based on intensity rankings. These subjective pain ratings were compared to physiological data gathered in search of consistent biomarkers of stress among participants. Vagal nerve stimulation was achieved through deep breathing mindfulness training, utilizing slow, deep breathing with low inspiration or expiration ratio. During the experimental session, participants were guided in a 2 minute “box breathing” session where they were instructed to inhale for 5 beats, hold for 5 beats, exhale for 5 beats, and hold for 5 beats. The control condition did not provide participants with guidance on breathing, allowing for non-paced, regular breathing to be observed during treatment with the TENS unit. Physiological data were recorded continuously and processed using AcqKnowledge Data Acquisition and Analysis Software. We hypothesized that the physiological difference between baseline and deep breathing, compared to baseline and undirected quiet, was greater, indicating that perceived pain was attenuated or reduced by the box breathing technique.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Shull, Anna	Xu, Peisheng Wang, Mingming	Assessing Blood Brain Barrier Integrity After Nanoparticle-Mediated CNS Drug Delivery in Alzheimer’s Disease View Full Text Abstract Text Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder defined by progressive cognitive decline, with its underlying pathogenesis remaining incompletely understood. Although numerous pharmaceuticals show promise in mitigating AD-related pathology in vitro, their clinical efficacy is often limited by poor penetration of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). To address this challenge, our laboratory has developed a brain-targeted nanoparticle drug delivery system (TN-D) capable of transporting diverse compounds into the brain. While targeted nanoparticle systems enhance CNS drug bioavailability, their effects on cerebrovascular integrity require rigorous evaluation. Here, we assess whether TN-D administration alters cerebrovascular architecture or compromises BBB integrity in a murine model of AD. Vascular structure and tight junction integrity are evaluated using immunohistochemical analyses of endothelial and junctional markers, including CD31, ZO-1, and Occludin, across multiple nanoparticle formulations. These studies aim to determine whether TN-D delivery preserves vascular structure and BBB integrity, thereby supporting its safety profile as a therapeutic platform for AD. Findings from this ongoing work will inform the development of nanoparticle-based strategies for safe and effective CNS drug delivery.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lithgow, Nicolette Smith, Tyler	Harris, Eboni	INSURANCE COVERAGE GAPS IN OBESITY AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT TREATMENT View Full Text Abstract Text Obesity is a chronic disease with significant physical, psychological, and economic consequences, yet many patients experience gaps in insurance coverage for evidence-based weight management treatments. The gaps in coverage limit access for these patients, affecting how nurses provide care. Ultimately, this results in worsening patient outcomes and higher long-term costs for health systems. The purpose of this evidence-based practice review was to examine the current literature on insurance coverage gaps in obesity and weight management treatment, identify barriers, and examine their effects on patient outcomes and nursing practice. A literature search was conducted using resources from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the American Medical Association (AMA), and Public Health Watch, utilizing the terms “obesity,” “weight management,” and “insurance coverage.” A total of six sources were reviewed, including research and public health articles published between 2017 and 2025. The findings show that gaps in insurance coverage limit access to effective obesity treatments, which delays care and worsens patient outcomes. The next steps include improving access to covered treatments and policy changes to expand insurance coverage for obesity care. Keywords: Obesity, weight management, access to care, insurance coverage, weight loss, barriers to care, nursing practice.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Douglas, Meagan	Vick, Lori	The Role of Nursing Leadership in Improving Pediatric Hospital-to-Home Transitions and Reducing Readmissions View Full Text Abstract Text i. Background/Significance Hospital-to-home transitions are a high risk period for pediatric patients, especially for children with complex cases. Evidence shows missed nursing care often includes education for families and discharge teaching, which is influenced by burnout, the lack of management support for nurses, and staffing shortages (Ozmen & Arslan Yurumezoglu 2025). It can be challenging for parents and care-takers of medically-complex children to have the health literacy and post-discharge preparedness needed to prevent readmissions. Nursing leadership plays a critical role in shaping work environments, strengthening discharge protocols, and supporting family-centered care. ii. Purpose/Objectives This project examined how nursing leadership influences pediatric discharge quality, caregiver readiness, and readmission risk through workforce support, standardized discharge planning, and health literacy initiatives. iii. Methods A literature review was completed using peer-reviewed articles (2025) addressing missed nursing care, parental health literacy, and discharge processes for medically complex children. The findings identified leadership-driven strategies impacted transition outcomes. iv. Results/Conclusion Standardized discharge protocols, teach-back, and follow-up calls reduced readmission rates (Atefeh et al., 2025). Evidence highlighted the importance of structured education and digital health platforms to enhance caregiver health literacy. Nursing leaders who promote positive work environments, interdisciplinary coordination, and standardized discharge protocols reduced preventable pediatric readmissions and improved transition safety.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Chinnasami, Nishant	Karakchi, Rasha	Hybrid Monitoring for Side-Channel Security in Edge SoCs View Full Text Abstract Text Edge-class SoCs, widely used in IoT and embedded devices such as IoT gateways, smart meters, medical devices, surveillance cameras, and industrial controllers, face increasing exposure to side-channel and fault injection attacks due to their deployment in untrusted environments and strict power and resource constraints. Traditional defenses, such as constant-time coding or hardware redundancy, are often infeasible on these lightweight platforms. To address this challenge, we present a hybrid cryptographic monitoring system that combines statistical thresholding with machine learning (ML) to detect anomalies in real time. Using injected timing delays and ciphertext alteration, we evaluated two complementary detectors: a lightweight threshold-based monitor and a Random Forest classifier leveraging timing and ciphertext features. Implemented on the PYNQ-Z1, the framework achieves <5 ms inference latency with under 30% resource utilization. The results show that the hybrid approach improves accuracy and reduces false positives/negatives compared to threshold-only detection, offering a practical solution to strength cryptographic resilience in edge-class SoCs.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Mader, Nora	Harris, Eboni Vick, Lori	Reducing Healthcare-Associated Infections in the NICU Through Hand Hygiene View Full Text Abstract Text Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the critical care setting, including the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Neonates in the NICU are highly susceptible to HAIs due to their immature immune systems. Hand hygiene practices are known to be an effective intervention in the prevention of HAIs but are not always practiced with diligence in the NICU setting. The purpose of this project was to critically review the existing literature on the role of hand hygiene in the prevention of HAIs, investigate current hand hygiene compliance among NICU nurses, and recommend best hand hygiene practices to help guide and inform current nursing practice. A literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed and CINAHL, to acquire existing literature on the subject. Only peer-reviewed articles from the past 5 years were included and search terms such as “neonatal intensive care unit”, “hand hygiene”, and “healthcare-associated infections” were used. The review revealed evidence of poor hand hygiene practices among NICU nurses leading to HAIs, highlighting the need for implementation of strict hand hygiene protocols for nurses in the NICU to improve neonatal health outcomes.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Srinivasan, Anish	Vasquez, Paula	Uncertainty Quantification of the Basic Reproduction Number (R0) in a Modified SEIR Model Using Sobol Sensitivity Analysis View Full Text Abstract Text Mathematical modeling is a critical tool for predicting epidemic trajectories and informing public health interventions. However, traditional Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered (SEIR) frameworks often suffer from unrealistic assumptions, most notably the use of exponentially distributed latent and infectious periods, as well as a lack of distinction between symptomatic and asymptomatic transmission. This study used a modified model that addresses these limitations by incorporating Erlang distributions with subcompartments while also explicitly modeling both symptomatic and asymptomatic transmission pathways. The research focuses on quantifying how variability in model input parameters influence the uncertainty of the Basic Reproductive Number (R0). Using the Next Generation Matrix (NGM) as a foundational framework, we found an explicit algebraic derivation of R0 proved prohibitively complex for our model. Therefore, we used the NGM method within a simulation framework to compute R0 for many parameter combinations generated via Saltelli sampling. This dataset was used to perform a global variance-based Sobol sensitivity analysis. The analysis identifies the symptomatic transmission rate (bS), the proportion of asymptomatic infections (k1), and the daily isolation rate (dI) as the primary drivers of R0 variance. Conversely, the Erland parameters m and n, describing the number of latent and infectious subcompartments, had negligible sensitivity, indicating that R0 uncertainty does not come from the model design. Significantly, the Total-Order indices were nearly double the First-Order indices for key parameters, indicating that R0 uncertainty is dominated by non-linear parameter interactions rather than additive effects. These findings imply that reducing uncertainty in single parameters provides diminishing returns. Therefore, effective pandemic preparedness requires a holistic approach, combining isolation with broad screening to identify asymptomatic reservoirs, as uncertainty in one parameter can greatly amplify the uncertainty in others.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bergeron, Grace	Kalinski, Ashley	Loss of sarm1 affects myelin uptake and clearance in macrophages View Full Text Abstract Text Clearance of myelin debris is an essential step in nerve regeneration after injury in both the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS), a process that is primarily carried out by macrophages (Mɸ). Failure to phagocytose and clear myelin can prolong inflammation and impair recovery. Sterile alpha and TIR motif-containing protein 1 (SARM1) is well researched as a regulator of axonal degeneration, yet its role in macrophages is still unclear. This study investigates how sarm1 deletion and cytokine signaling influence macrophage uptake and clearance of CNS and PNS myelin in vitro. Splenic macrophages isolated from wild-type (WT) and sarm1 knockout (KO) mice were cultured and polarized using pro-inflammatory (LPS) or anti-inflammatory (IL-4) cytokines. Pro-inflammatory conditions were expected to enhance phagocytic activity relative to anti-inflammatory conditions, and macrophages were expected to consume PNS myelin more efficiently than CNS myelin, reflecting known differences in immune signaling and regenerative responses between these systems. Following polarization, cells were exposed to either CNS or PNS myelin for 24 hours. To distinguish between myelin uptake and clearance capacity, two experimental conditions were performed. In one condition, cells were fixed 24 hours following myelin exposure to assess initial phagocytosis. In the second, myelin-containing media was removed, and cells were allowed a 24-hour clearance period prior to fixation. Myelin uptake and intracellular lipid consumption were quantified using immunofluorescence imaging with F4/80 macrophage labeling and Oil-Red O staining to identify lipid-rich macrophages. Preliminary evidence suggests that sarm1 KO macrophages have delayed polarization, decreased myelin uptake, and longer lipid retention compared to WT macrophages. By examining how genetic regulation and inflammatory cues interact to shape macrophage behavior, this study works to clarify immune mechanisms relating to myelin clearance and nerve repair. These findings may inform therapeutic strategies targeting macrophage function to improve regeneration after trauma and demyelinating diseases.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
O'Dell, Brayden	Shustova, Natalia Thaggard, Grace	Light-Driven Binding and Release of Metal Cations by Photochromic Platforms View Full Text Abstract Text The ability to selectively bind, store, and release metal cations in solution is an attractive strategy that could revolutionize areas like nuclear waste administration, recycling of critical minerals, and modulation of catalytically active metal species. Moreover, the possibility to regulate metal binding/release processes upon exposure to an external stimulus, such as light, with tunable excitation wavelengths, would allow for “on demand” capture of target metal cations. In this direction, photochromic molecules, which undergo isomerization between two or more distinct forms upon exposure to appropriate excitation wavelengths, could be leveraged for metal binding and release. This presentation explores the role of spiropyran, a photochromic compound which forms a zwitterionic isomer under ultraviolet light, in the selective capture and release of transition metals and lanthanides (selected as surrogates for radioactive actinides and transuranic species). In particular, the rate of spiropyran complexation with a variety of metal cations is analyzed by time-resolved UV-vis spectroscopy. By comparing the rates of photochromic complex formation and demetallation across a series of metal species, this presentation demonstrates selective binding of actinides and lanthanides over transition metal competitors. Consequently, the presented studies are leading fundamental steps toward applying photoresponsive molecules for selective binding, storage, and release of actinides, which could significantly impact the future of nuclear waste remediation.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Michenfelder, Emily Furtaw, Evan	Twiss, Jeff	ELP3 Regulates Axonal Integrity and Neuronal Survival Following Peripheral Nerve Injury View Full Text Abstract Text Peripheral nerve injury activates neuronal stress-response pathways that determine whether axons successfully regenerate. Upon traumatic nerve injury, the axons distal to the injury site undergo Wallerian degeneration, while the proximal segment retracts slightly and then initiates regenerative growth by localized synthesis of new proteins. We recently showed that RNA-protein granules containing G3BP1 protein slow axon regeneration. Axonal G3BP1 is acetylated after nerve injury, prompting the disassembly of RNA-G3BP1 granules. This disassembly releases sequestered mRNAs, thus increasing axonal protein synthesis and axon growth. We find that the Elongator protein 3 (ELP3), the catalytic subunit of the Elongator Complex needed for tRNA modifications and some protein acetylation, is required for acetylation of G3BP1 in injured axons. ELP3 depletion decreases G3BP1 acetylation and slows axon growth. Surprisingly, the proximal axons of ELP3 depleted motor and sensory neurons undergo retrograde degeneration after peripheral nerve injury, which results in neuronal death in vivo. This retrograde degeneration is prevented by expression of acetylmimetic but not non-acetylatable G3BP1. Using an AAV-shElp3-transduced ‘spot culture’ model, wherein we visualize axon dynamics by live cell imaging, we find that proximal axonal degeneration is not blocked by inhibitors of classical Wallerian degeneration pathways. However, the proteasome inhibitor MG132 blocks the degeneration, suggesting that dysregulated protein degradation contributes to axonal vulnerability in Elp3-depleted neurons. Taken together, these findings identify ELP3 as a regulator of neuronal resilience after peripheral nerve injury and suggest that altered stress granule dynamics protect the proximal axon and neuron from degeneration and death following traumatic injury.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Feltenberger, Jasmine Pressley, Jada	Herbert-Harris, Eboni Bartmess, Marissa Vick, Lori Sue-Ling, Carolyn	Impact of reduced screen time on language development View Full Text Abstract Text Background/Significance: Early childhood is a critical period for language development, yet toddlers are increasingly exposed to digital media. “Excessive screen exposure can reduce caregiver interaction and shared reading, which are critical for vocabulary growth and social communication” (Karani et al., 2022). This issue is important for nurses because anticipatory guidance during pediatric visits influences parental behavior. “Early counseling on media use has the potential to prevent developmental delays and support communication outcomes” (Takahashi et al., 2023). Purpose/Objectives: The purpose of this review is to determine whether reducing screen time improves language and communication outcomes in children under three and to identify nursing education strategies. Methods: A literature search was conducted using CINAHL, PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science, Embase, Academic Search Complete, and Nursing and Allied Health Reference. Articles published between 2021 and 2026 were limited to peer-reviewed studies involving children ages 0-3. Eight studies and systematic reviews were analyzed. Results/Conclusion: “Higher daily screen time is associated with delayed expressive language and fewer parent-child verbal exchanges” (Brush et al., 2024). “Screen reduction combined with caregiver engagement can improve communication within three to six months” (Takahashi et al., 2023). Nurses should integrate screen-time education into well-child visits and encourage screen-free routines.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Clack, Shane	Bartmess, Marissa	Nursing Safety Protocols in Procedural Sedation and Treatment Alternatives View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Reduction to realign fractures and dislocations is often done in the emergency department (ED) by non-specialists (i.e. ED providers) and requires procedural sedation (PS) or localized anesthesia (LA), such as a hematoma block. The selection of anesthesia/sedation method and intensity is largely the purview of the provider and the patient. However, selection is complex, and patient management is variable, depending on agents chosen—making this decision point a concern for nurses as well. Aim: To evaluate the risk factors, outcomes, and nursing care concerns for patients undergoing PS vs. LA. Methods: Select articles were identified in CINAHL using search terms “procedural OR conscious sedation”, “block OR local anesthesia”, “nursing”, and “management.” In total, twelve articles were reviewed, focusing on success rates of procedures, general similarity of sub-populations (e.g. age, patient cooperability, complexity of injury), and evaluation of procedural complications (i.e. respiratory depression, hypoxia, excessive pain). Results: Researchers found similar success rates for LA vs. PS, but risk for respiratory compromise remains a concern for sedation. Research shows nurse-driven protocols can minimize sedation doses in certain populations. Findings indicate that collaboration between nurse leaders and providers can reduce the need for sedation procedures and promote shorter lengths of stay.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Koshene Gamage, Vishwa Jeewanthi	Tahani, Mehrnoosh	The Invisible Threads of a Nearby Star-Forming Giant: Mapping Magnetic Fields of The Perseus Molecular Cloud View Full Text Abstract Text The interstellar medium (ISM), the diffuse gas and dust between stars, is fundamental to galaxy evolution and star formation. Within it, dense molecular clouds serve as the primary birthplaces of stars, shaped not only by gravity but also by magnetic fields that significantly influence gas flows and cloud evolution. However, magnetic fields are notoriously difficult to observe, and their large-scale structure in star forming regions remains poorly understood. We map the magnetic field structure of the Perseus molecular cloud, a nearby star forming region in the Perseus constellation, using optical starlight polarimetry. The technique works as follows: dust grains in the ISM are non-spherical; they spin and align their short axes parallel to the local magnetic field. When originally unpolarized starlight passes through these aligned grains, it is selectively absorbed along one direction, causing the transmitted light to become weakly linearly polarized. By measuring this polarization, we can recover the plane-of-sky orientation of the magnetic field. For optical polarization measurements, we use the Dragonfly Telephoto Array, a wide field telescope that has recently been upgraded for linear polarimetry as DragonflyPol with USC leadership. By combining DragonflyPol polarization measurements with precise stellar distances from the Gaia telescope, we construct a distance resolved, or tomographic, map of the plane-of-sky magnetic field across Perseus. This technique provides a critical step toward understanding how magnetic fields are structured within molecular clouds and, ultimately, how they shape the environments in which stars are born.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Lee, Theresa	Herbert Harris, Eboni	The Fragile House that Fragmented Care Built: When Discharge Planning Fails View Full Text Abstract Text Abstract Poor discharge teaching is a significant healthcare safety and care coordination problem. Many patients leave the hospital without fully understanding their medications, follow-up appointments, or warning signs to report. When education is not clear or aligned with a patient’s health literacy level, the risk of hospital readmission increases. This breakdown in communication weakens continuity of care and contributes to a repeated cycle of poor health outcomes and preventable readmissions. The purpose of this project is to examine how incomplete, unclear, or health-literacy-inappropriate discharge education impacts readmission rates. The objective is to identify evidence-based nursing strategies to improve discharge planning and patient understanding. A literature search was conducted using CINAHL, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Search terms included discharge planning, health literacy, patient education, hospital readmission, and care coordination. Peer-reviewed articles published between 2019 and 2025 were reviewed using filters for English language and adult populations. Eight research and review articles were analyzed. Findings indicate that standardized discharge protocols and the use of teach-back methods significantly reduce readmissions. Implementation of health-literacy-based discharge education is recommended to improve patient outcomes and strengthen continuity of care. Keywords: discharge planning, health literacy, hospital readmission, patient education, care coordination	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Niederland, Amanda	Huebner, Scott Harrison, Sayward	Recovery High Schools as a Continuing Care Model: Integrating Positive Psychology to Promote Adolescent Substance Use Recovery View Full Text Abstract Text Adolescents in recovery from substance use disorders (SUDs) face high rates of return to use, particularly during vulnerable post-treatment periods and transitions back to school (Cornelius et al., 2003; Passetti et al., 2016; Spear et al., 1999). Returning to traditional educational environments presents significant challenges that can undermine recovery, increase relapse risk, and negatively affect academic performance (Gonzales et al., 2012; Kardaş & Ögel, 2023; Moberg & Finch, 2008). Recovery High Schools (RHSs) have emerged as a continuing care model combining academic instruction with structured recovery supports (Moberg & Finch, 2008). Although empirical evidence remains limited, evidence suggests RHSs are associated with improved outcomes, including higher graduation rates and greater likelihood of long-term abstinence (Finch et al., 2018; Moberg & Finch, 2008; Weimer et al., 2019). To further strengthen recovery and mental health supports within RHSs, we propose integrating a Tier 2 positive psychology interventions grounded in Shannon Suldo’s Well-Being Promotion Program (WBPP). This strengths-based approach aims to build “recovery capital,” defined as personal and social resources that sustain motivation, emotional resilience, and meaningful goal pursuit in recovery (Hennessy et al., 2019). Positive psychology interventions show emerging promise for individuals with SUDs (Rubio-Escobar et al., 2025). Research indicates the WBPP increases life satisfaction and positive affect while reducing negative affect, supporting self-efficacy, emotion regulation, and overall mental health (Suldo et al., 2025). A central focus in positive psychology is subjective well-being (SWB), characterized by positive life evaluations and frequent positive emotions (Suldo et al., 2025). Youth with higher SWB demonstrate stronger academic, social, physical, and behavioral outcomes, along with greater stress resistance and adaptive coping (Barry, 2022; Tian, 2025). Integrating positive psychology interventions like the WBPP into RHS settings may strengthen recovery capital and enhance recovery and educational outcomes for adolescents.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Rajbanshi, Abhinna	Jin, Rongying	Magnetic-field-assisted synthesis of MnBi₂Te₄ and its impact on magnetic and transport properties View Full Text Abstract Text MnBi₂Te₄ is an intrinsic magnetic topological insulator with an antiferromagnetic (AFM) ground state, making it a promising platform for realizing exotic quantum phenomena such as quantum anomalous Hall effect (QAHE). However, the QAHE is energetically favored in a ferromagnetic (FM) state. In this work, we explore magnetic-field-assisted synthesis as a new approach to tune the magnetic ground state during crystal growth. In the presence of 9 T magnetic field, we have successfully grown high quality single crystals of MnBi₂Te₄. The resulted MnBi₂Te₄ exhibits the same crystal structure as the zero-field-grown phase but the FM ground state with a Curie temperature of approximately 12 K. Magnetization, magnetic torque, and magnetotransport measurements confirm its magnetic properties. Our findings show that a magnetic-field-assisted synthesis can reconfigure the ground-state spin structure, thereby influencing the material’s properties.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Grosse, Alexander Moody, Jack	Bartmess, Marissa Harris, Eboni Sue-Ling, Carolyn	Understanding the Negative Effects of Health Misinformation on Social Media and the Promotion of Patient Education Related to Online Resources View Full Text Abstract Text Background/ Significance Social media use is increasing, with patients being exposed to health information across all platforms accessed. However, anyone can post this information, which can result in patients being exposed to possibly harmful misinformation regarding disease processes and treatments associated. Purpose/ Objectives The purpose of this project is to see how nurses can target the negative effects of health misinformation on social media, and how they can help educate patients to access credible resources for information. Methods A literature review was performed on articles dating 2021 to 2025, utilizing reputable research database PubMed. Filters were used for peer-reviewed articles. Terms such as “social media” and “health misinformation” were utilized in the search. Over thirty articles analyzed, with six being selected for use. Some of the literature types included: primary research articles and integrated literature reviews. Results/Conclusion Patients have been found to utilize social media as a means of gaining health advice but struggle with finding lots of health-related misinformation. Evidence was strong across all six articles that patient education is essential to help increase understanding when accessing credible sources across the internet and social media. This promotes patient autonomy and helps protect patients from misinformation found on social media	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Piel, Isabelle	Wippold, Guillermo Prothro, Kalyn	Sense of Community as a Predictor of Health-Related Quality of Life in Black Americans View Full Text Abstract Text Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an individual's perception of their physical and psychological functioning and significantly predicts premature mortality. In the United States, Black Americans experience disproportionately lower HRQoL and lower life expectancies compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Interventions to improve HRQoL among Black communities are urgently needed; however, identification of barriers and facilitators of HRQoL is essential. A sense of community has been shown to mitigate the impact of risk factors impacting HRQoL among Black Americans, such as physical activity and healthy eating. Despite these findings, current health interventions prioritize individual-level factors, neglecting the inclusion of community-level factors that have been shown to impact health behaviors associated with HRQoL among Black Americans. The present study aims to understand the link between HRQoL and sense of community, among 290 Black adults (Mage = 37.73). We hypothesized that a greater sense of community would buffer against the adverse effects of lower engagement in physical activity and healthy eating on psychological and physical HRQoL. Moderation analyses using hierarchical regressions indicated that sense of community was positively associated with physical and psychological HRQoL. Additionally, a sense of community moderated the association between physical activity and HRQoL, such that a greater sense of community mitigated the negative impact of low physical activity on physical (B = -0.52, p = .03) and psychological (B = -0.55, p = .02) HRQoL. In contrast, a sense of community did not moderate the association between healthy eating and physical or psychological HRQoL. Our findings suggest that a sense of community may be a meaningful target in health promotion efforts aimed at addressing the impact of low physical activity on HRQoL among Black Americans. To mitigate disparities in HRQoL, community-based, culturally informed health interventions that acknowledge community-level influences on health-related behaviors are needed among Black American communities.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Avula, Sravanthi	PATEL, REKHA	Molecular Studies Reveal Overactive Interferon (IFN) Pathway in Two Monogenic Inherited Dystonia Types. View Full Text Abstract Text Our work focuses on two types of inherited, monogenic movement disorders termed dystonia (DYT). DYT-PRKRA (aka DYT16) is caused by mutations in the PRKRA gene, encoding PACT. DYT-EIF2AK2 (aka DYT33) is caused by mutations in the EIF2AK2 gene encoding IFN-induced protein kinase EIF2AK2 (aka PKR). PKR expression is induced by IFNs but PKR needs binding to its activator for its catalytic activation. In virally infected cells, double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) activates PKR and PACT activates PKR in response to non-viral cellular stress. Activated PKR phosphorylates the alpha subunit of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 (eIF2alpha), leading to a block in protein synthesis and inhibiting viral replication. PACT and PKR are also involved in the induction of IFNs in response to viral infections thereby raising a question if IFN pathway dysregulation is involved in dystonia pathophysiology. We compared the response of DYT-PRKRA and DYT-EIF2AK2 patient cells and their wt counterparts to dsRNA, a viral mimic. The cells were treated with dsRNA, and PKR induction, activation, and cell apoptosis were analysed. The dystonia patient cells show heightened PKR induction and activation, which triggers enhanced apoptosis after dsRNA treatment. Both DYT-PRKRA and DYT-EIF2AK2 cells also showed enhanced apoptosis in response to IFN and dsRNA. These findings provide a novel insight into the molecular mechanism for DYT-PRKRA and DYT-EIF2AK2, and considering that dystonia is a frequently observed side-effect of IFN therapy used for various diseases, suggest a plausible causal connection between the onset of dystonia after a childhood febrile illness. Targeting excessive IFN induction or inhibiting PKR activation could offer novel therapeutic avenues in future to mitigate this movement disorder in patients.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Atkinson, Allison	Mulkey, Malissa McDonnell, Karen Owens, Shaun	Comparing Health Perceptions and Care Quality in Dementia Care: A Multi-Methods Study Protocol View Full Text Abstract Text Background: The effects of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) present substantial challenges for individuals living with cognitive impairment and their caregivers, particularly regarding quality of life. Prior research shows a discrepancy between how individuals with ADRD perceive their health-related quality of life (HRQoL) versus how caregivers view the HRQoL of those with ADRD. However, limited evidence exists on how these perceptual discrepancies influence caregiving experiences, communication, and care quality. Objective: This multi-methods study aims to assess concordance between individuals with ADRD and their caregivers regarding patient HRQoL and examine how perceptual discrepancies relate to caregiving experiences, communication, and overall care quality. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional design will collect quantitative data from 46 patient-caregiver dyads. Each dyad will consist of an individual with mild to moderate ADRD and their primary caregiver. Participants will be recruited from local healthcare providers, senior care facilities, and support groups. Participants will be at least 18 years of age and speak English. Participants with ADRD must score 10-25 points on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. The Quality of Life in Alzheimer’s Disease scale will be used as well as demographic and caregiving data collection forms. Caregiving data includes number of hours spent providing direct care and the caregiver’s relationship to the participant with ADRD. A subsample of five dyads will participate in semi-structured qualitative interviews to explore communication, caregiving relationships, and the impact of HRQoL perceptions on care quality. Paired t-tests and Wilcoxon matched-pairs rank tests will analyze quantitative HRQoL concordance data. Qualitative data analysis will follow a thematic approach. Discussion: Findings will inform caregiver education, strengthen communication strategies, and support care approaches aligned with patients’ lived experiences. Ultimately, this study seeks to bridge perceptual gaps in ADRD care to improve care quality and quality of life for individuals living with ADRD and their caregivers.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hong, Siqi	Torres-McGehee, Toni	Assessment of Energy Availability, Bone Health, and Micronutrient Intake in Elite CrossFit Trained Athletes View Full Text Abstract Text Background: There is extensive literature on the association among low energy availability (LEA), suboptimal bone health, and micronutrient deficiency among competitive female athletes. Emerging epidemiological evidence on the male athletes may demonstrates comparable associations among LEA, suboptimal bone health, and micronutrient deficiency in competitive athletes. Purpose: To examine LEA, bone mineral density, and micronutrient intake among elite CrossFit-trained athletes. Methods: Twenty elite CrossFit-trained athletes (age: 27.9±6.7 y; females: n=9, height: 163.2±5.6 cm, weight 64.5±6.6 kg; males: n=11, height: 179.6±8.5 cm, weight: 86.1±6.8 kg) participated in this cross-sectional study. Height, weight, and body composition were measured. Exercise energy expenditure (EEE) and total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) were recorded over seven consecutive days using Polar watches, and dietary intake was self-reported via food logs. LEA was defined as <30 kcal/kg fat-free mass/day. Descriptive statistics summarized demographic, energy availability, bone mineral density (BMD), and micronutrient data; chi-square tests evaluated associations between BMD and micronutrients. Results: A total of 55% (n=11) elite CrossFit trained athletes were at risk for LEA. Within females 66.7% (n=6/9) and males 45.5% (n=5/11) athletes were at risk for LEA. 100% of all athletes presented with normal Z-scores for age, sex, and body size. Despite adequate BMD, most participants failed to meet recommendations for several micronutrients: calcium 70% (n=14/20), vitamin D 90% (n=18/20), magnesium 75% (n=15/20), vitamin K 60% (n=12/20), potassium 50% (n=10/20), and zinc 40% (n=8/20). Phosphorus intake was adequate in 95% (n=19/20). Conclusion: Over half elite CrossFit trained athletes exhibited LEA and inadequate micronutrient intake, yet maintained normal BMD. This may reflect the bone-loading benefits of CrossFit training. Future research should include extended data-collection periods to capture possible longitudinal effects on bone health in the same population following chronic suboptimal micronutrient intake. Other populations, engaging in different forms of exercise or sedentary lifestyles, should be considered as well.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Elya, Rita	Burkart, Sarah Randolph, Griffin	Evaluation of WP200 in a Community Sleep Lab Setting: A Retrospective Chart Review View Full Text Abstract Text Purpose: We investigated the percentage of false negatives and associated characteristics of individuals who had a Home Sleep Apnea Test (WatchPat200; WP200) using retrospective data from a sleep clinic in South Carolina. Methods: Between February 6, 2024, and March 14, 2025, adults (n=84, age= 51.3± 14.7 years, 57% female) with high probability for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) underwent home testing to determine presence of OSA. Those with negative home tests underwent an in-lab sleep test (polysomnography; PSG) to confirm OSA diagnosis. The percentage of false negatives for WP200 was calculated, and logistic regression was used to examine potential associated characteristics. Results: Among those who completed both tests (n=37), the percentage of false negatives was 51.35%. We observed a statistically significant relationship between probability of false negative and age (OR= 0.88; 95% CI= 0.80–0.97) and daytime sleepiness (OR= 1.40; 95% CI= 1.00–1.96). There was no statistically significant difference between prescriber type and WP200 results. Discussion: The percentage of false negatives was higher than we had predicted. Additionally, while the relationships between age, sex, and false negative results were predicted, our findings demonstrated an unexpected relationship between excessive daytime sleepiness and probability of false negative result. Future research should conduct simultaneous PSG and WP200 to comprehensively assess performance.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Matthews, Caitlin Plattenburger, Elle	Harris, Eboni	C-ing a Diff: The Antibiotic Resistance Challenge with C. difficile Treatment View Full Text Abstract Text Background/Significance: Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) is the leading cause of healthcare-associated infectious diarrhea in the United States and is associated with high rates of recurrence and mortality. Vulnerable populations, including older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and children, are at increased risk. The development of C. difficile infection is closely linked to antibiotic resistance, a major public health concern that complicates treatment and increases the likelihood of reinfection. Preventing both infection and recurrence remains a critical goal for healthcare providers. Purpose/Objectives: This review examines antibiotic resistance as an emerging public health issue and its role in the development of C. difficile infection. Objectives include identifying contributing factors, evaluating prevention strategies for vulnerable populations, and defining treatment success as resolution of infection without recurrence for at least 30 days. Methods: A systematic review of peer-reviewed articles published between 2016-2026 was conducted, containing search terms such as “C. Difficile” and “antibiotic resistance”. 7 were chosen for further analysis and consideration. The majority were published within the last five years and obtained from PubMed and the University of South Carolina Library databases. Results/Conclusion: Broad-spectrum antibiotics, particularly clindamycin and cephalosporins, significantly increase the risk of C. difficile infection. Although current treatments include metronidazole, vancomycin, and fidaxomicin, rising resistance threatens their effectiveness. Prevention efforts, including antimicrobial stewardship, patient education, and early symptom recognition, are essential to reducing infection rates and recurrence.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Hamida, Hamida	Nagarkatti, Mitzi Nagarkatti, Prakash Palrasu, Manikandan Marudamuthu, Amarnath Yang, Xiaoming	Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol mitigates ConA-induced hepatotoxicity through epigenetic regulation of immune dynamics View Full Text Abstract Text Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is driven by dysregulated effector and regulatory immune responses, with microRNAs (miRNAs) acting as key epigenetic regulators of immune signaling. Cannabinoids exhibit immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects, but the role of delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁸-THC), a less psychoactive isomer of Δ⁹-THC, in AIH remains unexplored. We investigated whether Δ⁸-THC protects against ConA-induced AIH and defined the underlying cellular and epigenetic mechanisms. C57BL/6 mice were treated with ConA (12.5 mg/kg, i.v.) ± Δ⁸-THC (20 mg/kg, i.p.). Hepatic immune cells underwent miRNA sequencing and flow cytometry. Differential miRNA expression was analyzed using edgeR, targets predicted via Ingenuity Pathway Analysis, and candidate genes validated by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Functional relevance was tested using miRNA mimic/inhibitor transfection and naïve CD4⁺ T-cell differentiation assays. Δ⁸-THC ameliorated ConA-induced AIH by restoring intrahepatic innate and adaptive immune homeostasis. It preserved tolerogenic Kupffer cells and regulatory T cells while suppressing inflammatory monocytes, neutrophils, pathogenic CD4⁺ T cells, and NK cells. These effects were associated with preservation of hepatoprotective miR-199a-3p and miR-100-5p in the liver, which were downregulated by ConA. mTOR was identified as a target of these miRNAs, and Δ⁸-THC reduced hepatic mTOR expression in vivo and in vitro. Gain- and loss-of-function studies confirmed direct post-transcriptional regulation of mTOR in RAW264.7 and CD4⁺ T cells. Transfection of naïve CD4⁺ T cells with miR-199a-3p or miR-100-5p mimics promoted Foxp3⁺ regulatory T-cell differentiation and attenuated Th1/Th17 polarization via mTOR suppression, whereas miRNA inhibition reversed these effects. Δ⁸-THC recapitulated this molecular and functional reprogramming, linking cannabinoid signaling to mTOR-dependent CD4⁺ T-cell lineage commitment. These findings identify a Δ⁸-THC–miRNA–mTOR axis that modulates CD4⁺ T-cell differentiation and limits pathogenic immune responses in autoimmune hepatitis	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Stevenson, Peyton Patel, Yesha	Harris, Eboni Bartmess, Marissa	Improving Transitional Care in older adults: Addressing Communication Breakdowns During Care Transitions View Full Text Abstract Text Background/Significance Transitions of care for older adults can be challenging due to complex medical conditions, polypharmacy, and multiple healthcare providers. Effective communication is integral for safe care transitions. According to research, communication breakdowns account for 50-60% of hospital related medication incidents and approximately 20% of adverse drug events. Purpose/Objectives The purpose of this project is to examine current literature on communication breakdowns during transitions of care among older adults and to identify strategies that improve patient safety and care. The objectives are to evaluate evidence-based communication and engagement interventions, assess their impact on medication safety, adverse outcomes, and explore the role of interdisciplinary collaboration in effective care transitions. Methods PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Wiley Online Library. Search terms included transitions of care, older adults, communication breakdowns, and medication safety. Filters limited results to peer reviewed nursing journals published between 2021 to 2026. The studies included mixed method research, qualitative studies, and systematic reviews. Results/Conclusion The literature suggests structured communication and engagement strategies, standardized handoff tools, medication reconciliation, and patient/family-centered education, and reduce communication breakdowns during care transitions. Evidence indicated patient engagement interventions improve medication management and reduce readmissions2, while family involvement and structured communication enhance safety and adherence3. These findings support standardized communication protocols and nurse-led coordination strategies to enhance transition and patient safety.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Caudillo, Yair	Fadel, James	Orexin Signaling as a Requisite Mediator for LPS-Induced TLR4 Translocation in Basal Forebrain Cholinergic Neurons View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: Neuroinflammation is a primary driver of structural and functional decline in the basal forebrain cholinergic system. The recruitment of Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) from intracellular compartments to the plasma membrane is a critical "gatekeeping" step in the initiation of the inflammatory cascade. While the orexin (hypocretin) system is known to modulate neuroimmune responses, its specific role in the physical trafficking of TLR4 within neurons remains poorly understood. Methods: We utilized a 35-rat cohort (ChAT-SAP/Orexin-Antisense) to investigate whether orexin signaling is necessary for TLR4 mobilization. Using a randomized spatial analysis ("Donut Method"), we isolated the 2μm membrane shell from the cytoplasmic core in over 175 ChAT-positive neurons. A Translocation Index (Shell:Core intensity) and Area Fraction Ratios were calculated to quantify protein recruitment. Results: Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge in control rats induced a robust mobilization of TLR4 to the membrane, resulting in a significantly elevated Translocation Index of 1.69 ± 0.08. This recruitment was accompanied by a collapse in soma morphology, with roundness scores dropping to 0.69 ± 0.02 (indicating inflammatory atrophy). Conversely, orexin knockdown via antisense significantly attenuated this trafficking, maintaining a Translocation Index of 1.36 ± 0.11—effectively stranding the receptor in the cytoplasmic core. This "recruitment failure" was further evidenced by a reduction in the Shell:Core Area Fraction Ratio (from 1.85 in controls to 1.23 in antisense males). Notably, the blockade of TLR4 trafficking in antisense rats preserved soma roundness at healthy baseline levels (0.76 ± 0.02). Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that orexin signaling is a requisite factor for the translocation of TLR4 to the neuronal membrane. By blocking this molecular trafficking, orexin knockdown prevents the structural remodeling and atrophy associated with acute neuroinflammation. These results suggest that the "functional impairment" previously observed with orexin loss may be a trade-off for significant structural neuroprotection against TLR4-mediated inflammatory stress.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hudson, Dylan	Alberts, Halley	Baseline Characteristics, Care Gaps, and Barriers Among Adults With Diabetes Enrolled in a Community-Led Program in Rural Belize View Full Text Abstract Text Sarteneja is a rural coastal community in northern Belize with historically limited access to consistent medical care. Until recently, the village lacked a permanent physician, and residents relied on intermittent outreach clinics or travel to access services. Although infrastructure improvements have reduced travel times, accessing routine care requires a full-day commitment. A community-led diabetes support program utilizing lay community health workers (CHWs) was established to provide ongoing education and monitoring within the village. As part of enrollment, we characterized baseline clinical status and care gaps among participating adults to guide targeted CHW support strategies. To characterize baseline clinical status, behavioral patterns, and self-efficacy among adults with diabetes enrolling in a community-led CHW initiative to inform targeted education and support. We conducted a community-based descriptive analysis of adults with type 2 diabetes enrolling in a layperson CHW support program in Sarteneja, Belize. At enrollment, participants underwent anthropometric assessment, blood pressure measurement, point-of-care glucose testing, and HbA1c evaluation. A structured survey assessed demographics, medication use, healthcare access, self-management behaviors, and diabetes-related self-efficacy. Participants reported high medication adherence (mean 6.3 days/week; 79.7% reporting daily use); however, 27.5% of daily users remained poorly controlled (HbA1c ≥9%). Behavioral and knowledge gaps were evident: 26.6% reported forgetting medications, 28.1% reported no weekly exercise, and 38.1% did not report regular home glucose monitoring. Notably, 93.8% were unable to identify their A1c goal. Over half (54.7%) reported managing diabetes without support from family or peers. Adults enrolling in this community-based diabetes support program demonstrated substantial cardiometabolic burden alongside behavioral, educational, and self-efficacy gaps despite widespread medication use. Community-based models emphasizing sustained engagement and patient empowerment may strengthen chronic disease self-management in rural settings.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bradley, Tyra	Kloos, Bret Wong, Dylan	Examining Predictors of Graduation from the Columbia Homeless Court Program View Full Text Abstract Text Homeless Courts are problem-solving courts designed to reduce legal barriers, such as minor criminal offenses and court-imposed fines, that contribute to housing instability (Binder, 2001). Research from drug courts indicate that criminal history and financial sanctions negatively influence program completion, with legal history and monetary fines predicting lower graduation rates (Randall-Kosich et al., 2022; Shannon et al., 2016). Additionally, studies indicate that demographic factors, such as race and sex, may play a role in program success. With participants who are White or female having a higher likelihood of program completion compared to non-White or male participants (Gary & Saum, 2005; Shannon et al., 2016). However, it is unclear whether the predictive utility of these factors in drug courts extend to homeless courts, given Homeless Court participants often face housing instability, financial hardship, and different patterns of legal involvement that may shape program outcomes differently. This study examines whether the extent of legal involvement at the entry of Homeless Court and total legal financial obligations predict program graduation, and whether these relationships differ by race and sex. The sample includes approximately 200 individuals enrolled in the Columbia Homeless Court program between 2018 and 2023. Court records were used to measure the number of charges at entry and total fines. We will attempt to use logistic regression analyses to assess the relationship between legal burden, legal financial obligations, and graduation from the Homeless Court. This analysis will also test whether race and sex modify these relationships. Results could highlight whether certain groups face disproportionate barriers to graduation in problem-solving courts and help courts identify participants at higher risk of non-completion and provide additional support to improve their success.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Stanton, Reagan	Tahani, Mehrnoosh	New Eyes for a Unique Telescope: Adding Circular Polarization to Dragonfly View Full Text Abstract Text Measurements of circular polarization, or the 3D oscillation of a component of light in a circular pattern, especially in optical wavelengths, are extremely challenging to observe and are therefore neglected in most astrophysical studies. However, existing observations and theoretical predictions have shown that we can expect regions with high circular polarization, especially near star-forming regions. Observing circular polarization is important for unraveling pivotal questions about the universe such as the presence of dark (non-luminous) matter, the origin of life (through understanding homochiral molecules), star formation, and beyond. We are designing an instrument that can measure circular polarization with the Dragonfly Telephoto Array, a novel and innovative telescope located in Mayhill, New Mexico. The Dragonfly Telephoto Array is an optical refracting telescope made out of 48 science-grade commercial camera lenses. This modular design gives the telescope the unique ability to probe both low brightness objects and complete polarization information of cosmic light throughout the universe at a high resolution. Currently, we are testing two possible designs for the circular polarization instrument. One design relies solely on the individual rotating polarizers on the cameras and the other design relies on the inherent properties of the Dragonfly Telephoto Array and uses the multicamera design to host various polarizing filter angles. Both designs will incorporate other optical components in addition to the polarizers. Our anticipated results are a conclusion about which design is more efficient and effective at measuring circular polarization as well as a plan to implement the instrument onto the telescope. This integration will open unique pathways for discoveries about the mysteries of the universe.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hassouneh, Jana	Banerjee, Meeta	Zip Code and Opportunity: Examining Structural Disparities Across U.S. Zip Codes View Full Text Abstract Text This study examines whether structural disparities exist across the zip codes of college students in the United States, with a particular focus on differences in racial composition, homelessness rates, and food insecurity. The purpose of this research is to understand how geographic location may shape students’ lived experiences and access to social and economic resources. By identifying patterns of inequality across zip codes, the study seeks to determine whether certain communities experience concentrated disadvantage and how these structural factors may contribute to unequal conditions. The study hypothesizes that significant structural disparities will be present across regions of the United States, particularly in Southern states and urban areas, and that these disparities will be associated with differences in race, homelessness, and food insecurity. These conditions may influence students’ educational outcomes, safety, and overall well-being. The participants include 439 college students from the University of South Carolina, with data collected between 2022 and 2024. Future analyses will examine relationships between students’ demographic characteristics and the structural conditions of their home zip codes. Understanding these disparities may help educators and policymakers design targeted interventions to better support students from structurally disadvantaged communities.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Mann, Catharine	Flory, Kate	Adaptive Emotion Regulation as a Moderator of the Association Between Stressful Life Events and Changes in Religiosity View Full Text Abstract Text Previous research indicates that religion and spirituality can have a beneficial impact on the well-being of individuals, both promoting health and reducing poor mental and physical health outcomes. Religiosity often shifts across the lifespan, but some experiences can predict those changes. For example, stressful life events (SLEs; e.g., loss of a family member, serious illness) are often associated with a decrease in religiosity. Past research has shown that in adults, the experience of SLEs predicts less identification with previously held religious beliefs. This relation could be influenced by a number of factors, but many are likely related to the use of coping strategies – for example, social support and self-regulation skills. Many studies have examined the role of social support in religiosity and well-being, but very few have investigated the potential moderating effect of emotion regulation (ER; the control an individual exerts over their emotional experience and expressions). Additionally, most existing religiosity research has been conducted with adult populations. The present study, therefore, seeks to identify the potential buffering role of adaptive ER skills and strategies in the association between SLEs and decreased religiosity in adolescence. Data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, a multisite longitudinal cohort study, will be analyzed, utilizing both caregiver and youth self-report measures for SLEs (Life Events Checklist), religiosity (Mexican American Cultural Values Scale), and emotion regulation (Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale; Emotion Regulation Questionnaire). To investigate the role of adaptive ER, we will examine linear mixed models with an interaction term. Findings may increase knowledge of predictors for whether individuals grow in or fall away from their religious belief system after adversity, which has implications for understanding and preventing distress and mental health problems.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Aust, Lucas	Wu, Dezhi	From Reddit Posts to Progress: LLM-Based Detection of Readiness to Quit Vaping View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Youth vaping remains a significant public health concern. Although prevalence has declined, e-cigarettes remain the most commonly used tobacco product among adolescents. Many youths want to quit, yet stress, peer influence, stigma, and limited access to cessation resources reduce success. Social media platforms such as Reddit contain large volumes of discussion about vaping behaviors, quit attempts, relapse, and maintenance. These data create an opportunity to identify readiness and deliver tailored digital interventions at scale, but manual annotation is not feasible. Large language models offer a scalable approach for detecting readiness signals from text. Research Gap: Prior work showed that LLMs can classify Transtheoretical Model stages from vaping-related posts, yet performance was inconsistent across the five traditional stages. Early readiness categories overlap in natural language, limiting reliability. Most studies treat the five-stage framework as fixed without examining whether its structure aligns with how readiness is expressed online. This misalignment limits dependable large-scale deployment for intervention support. Methods: We extracted 14,388 vaping-related Reddit posts using PRAW and removed duplicates and low-content entries. Gemini-2.5-Flash performed preliminary five-stage classification. We sampled 200 posts per stage and added 184 non-vaping controls, yielding 1,184 posts. Clinical experts annotated all posts as ground truth. Seven state-of-the-art LLMs were evaluated using six prompting strategies. The five stages were mapped into a clinician-informed three-stage framework consisting of Pre-action, Action, and Maintenance. The primary metric was macro F1. Results: The three-stage framework improved consistency, with top macro F1 scores exceeding 0.83. Structured reasoning prompts outperformed simpler prompts. Study Contribution to Science and Medicine: This study tests whether behavioral theory requires adaptation for computational use. By evaluating a clinician-informed restructuring of TTM, we show that aligning theory with real-world language improves detection reliability. These findings establish a foundation for implementation-ready, AI-driven cessation systems and scalable, stage-tailored digital interventions.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Tavasoli, Reza	Sur, Sanjib Nelakuditi, Srihari	Towards Contactless Pediatric Anthropometryusing Millimeter-Wave Radar View Full Text Abstract Text Accurate anthropometric measurements are essential for monitoring pediatric growth and identifying health risks such as obesity. Contact-based measurements using medical tape can cause discomfort in children and require trained personnel. Recent 3D camera-based approaches offer contactless alternatives, but they are sensitive to clothing and environmental lighting conditions, and often miss body segments due to occlusions and shadows. We present an approach for contactless estimation of pediatric body circumferences using millimeter-wave (mmWave) radar. In this work-in-progress, we conduct a simulation-based study of a commercial Texas Instruments AWR2243 Cascade mmWave system. Using ray tracing, we generate synthetic radar data from 2,510 parametric pediatric body models stratified by age (5-12 years), sex, and BMI category. A 3D ResNet-18 model with attention mechanisms is trained to predict six circumference measurements from radar-reconstructed voxel data. The model achieves mean absolute errors of 0.35 cm for forearm, 0.67-0.83 cm for thigh, 0.86 cm for head, and 1.20 cm for torso circumferences, with all measurements below 3 percent mean absolute percentage error. Additionally, height estimated directly from the mmWave reconstruction achieves a mean absolute error of 2.24 cm, enabling BMI estimation with a mean absolute error of 0.64 kg/m2 and an R-squared of 0.92. These preliminary results demonstrate the feasibility of mmWave-based pediatric anthropometry and establish a foundation for future validation with a real-world system and volunteers.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Harper, Austin	Wuest, Thorsten	Machine Learning Applications for Resistance Spot Welding in Manufacturing View Full Text Abstract Text Resistance Spot Welding (RSW) is a common joining technique in various industries, including automotive assembly, home appliances, and ship building. With the introduction of Industry 4.0 and the digitalization of production processes, data-driven modeling via Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) has been deployed throughout manufacturing. As a widely used joining technology, RSW has leveraged AI and ML on the shop floor. However, to date there is no overview of industries, tools, shop-floor applications, and publicly available datasets available depicting the current state of the art. This literature review aims to systematically survey the current state of the art for data-driven modeling applications in smart manufacturing. By using the PRISMA process and a bibliometric analysis this study garners a holistic view of the research domain. The final study included 42 papers from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, with authors from 21 different countries contributing to the body of knowledge. Through this review it was found that most publications are from the automotive industry with applications targeting defect detection, classification, and weld nugget property predictions. The most common data-driven modeling tools are Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) due to their robust ability to process both image and signal data quickly and accurately, among other advantages. Across the reviewed publications, two datasets are publicly available, with only one from a real-world production process. This study identified three main research gaps: i) more case studies in industries outside of automotive assembly, ii) a need for open-source RSW manufacturing datasets, and iii) a need more experimentation of new model architectures outside of CNN. This systematic literature review surveyed the current state of the art for RSW data-driven modeling applications and found answers to questions that had previously been undefined in the field.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Gonzalez, Jennifer	Hancock, C. Nathan	How Does Size Affect Suppressor-Mutator (Spm) Transposition Frequency? View Full Text Abstract Text Transposable elements (TEs) are sequences that can jump from one location to another within the genome. The Class II TE Suppressor-mutator (Spm) element was the first discovered in maize. Spm is 8.3 kb in size and encodes the transposase proteins needed to facilitate transposition. Other smaller versions called defective Spm (dSpm) lack transposase sequences due to internal deletions but can still transpose when transposase protein is provided. Previous studies have shown that some TEs form miniature inverted repeat transposable elements (MITEs) with higher transposition frequency compared to larger ones. However, MITE versions of Spm have not been observed. The goal is to test the transposition frequency of Spm and dSpm elements of different sizes to see how size affects their mobility. To test our hypothesis, we assembled Spm elements of various sizes and performed yeast transformation to move them into yeast expressing Spm TNPA and Spm TNP2 proteins. We are currently performing yeast transposition assays to determine the transposition frequencies. We anticipate that element size affects the ability of the Spm elements to transpose. Understanding this mechanism will allow us to develop Spm derived elements with high transposition frequency that can be developed into genome editing tools.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Incognito, Isabella	Shustova, Natalia B. Maldeni Kankanamalage, Buddhima K. P.	Mapping of Catalyst Distribution in Porous Supports via Energy Transfer View Full Text Abstract Text Solid-supported (heterogeneous) catalysts play a pivotal role in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries due to their recyclability and resilience against contaminants. Therefore, it contributes significantly to sustainable chemical industry and align with green chemistry principles. One strategy to obtain highly efficient and industrially competitive heterogeneous catalysts is to encapsulate homogeneous molecular catalysts in a solid-state host-guest system. This approach combines the high activity and selectivity of molecular catalysts with the durability and recoverability of heterogeneous supports. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have gained attention in this area as hosts due to their modularity, versatile pathways for catalytic site integration, and selective pore size capabilities. In this study, we demonstrated how resonance energy transfer (RET) can be used as a powerful method for mapping the evolution of catalytically active sites in host-guest catalytic systems. This presentation shows the synthesis of MOFs, their structural characterization, the integration of catalysts into MOFs with increasing pore sizes, and the study of different catalyst distributions in these host-guest systems using fluorescence spectroscopy via RET. Overall, this work showcases a novel concept acquiring the fundamental knowledge for mapping the catalyst distribution within a porous host, allowing us to develop next-generation solid-supported catalytic systems with enhanced catalytic activities.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Patel, Aarav Khan, Maarya	McQuail, Joseph	Associations among working memory and anxiety in TgF344-AD rats View Full Text Abstract Text Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by amyloid and tau pathology leading to progressive neural dysfunction, with early vulnerability of the prefrontal cortex (PFC), a region involved in working memory and emotional regulation. Anxiety is common in AD, and sex differences are observed in both mood disorders and AD prevalence, yet the timing of early cognitive and anxiety-related changes remains unclear. The TgF344-AD rat model develops progressive AD-like pathology and cognitive impairments, providing a platform to examine early behavioral alterations. The present study evaluated working memory and anxiety-like behavior in young wildtype (WT; 6M, 6F) and TgF344-AD (3M, 3F) rats. Anxiety-like behavior was assessed using the open field and elevated plus maze (EPM). In the open field, total distance traveled and percent time spent in the inner zone were measured, with reduced center exploration interpreted as increased anxiety-like behavior. In the EPM, total distance traveled and time spent in open arms were measured, as open-arm avoidance is commonly used as an index of anxiety-like behavior. Working memory was assessed using a delayed match-to-sample (DMTS) task in which rats pressed a sample lever and, after a variable delay (0–24 s), were required to select the same lever to receive reward. Choice accuracy decreased as delay increased. Both genotype and sex significantly influenced performance, with WT rats outperforming TgF344-AD rats and females outperforming males, without delay-dependent interactions. In the open field, females traveled greater distances than males, but inner zone time did not differ by genotype or sex. In the EPM, neither total distance nor open arm time differed between groups. These preliminary findings indicate that working memory deficits are detectable in young TgF344-AD rats in the absence of genotype-related differences in anxiety-like behavior. Ongoing work will expand sample sizes and incorporate longitudinal testing across disease progression.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Laubsch, Sophia	Harrison, Sayward Watson, Mike	Stigma on Campus: Examining College Students’ Attitudes on Substance Use Disorder and Harm Reduction View Full Text Abstract Text College students are at increased risk for substance misuse and substance use disorder (SUD) when compared to the general population. However, SUD continues to be a highly stigmatized health condition, which hinders effective support and interventions. Harm reduction, a person-centered, nonjudgmental approach for reducing risks associated with drug use, is a promising approach to reduce harms associated with substance use, yet public perceptions of these efforts remain largely unexplored in university settings. This study investigates stigma towards SUD and attitudes towards harm reduction among college students at the University of South Carolina (USC). A cross sectional survey is currently being administered to college students which explores demographics, stigmatizing beliefs about SUD, perspectives on harm reduction, substance use-related behaviors, and substance use awareness and insights. We hypothesize that college students will demonstrate moderate levels of stigma towards individuals with SUD and approval of harm reduction practices. Findings from this study are expected to offer insights for advocacy and provide guidance for development of more effective prevention and treatment programs for college students experiencing substance misuse or SUD. By measuring college students' perspectives on SUD and harm reduction, this study underscores the need for strategies to combat stigma and build support. Ultimately, this study aims to contribute to efforts to destigmatize SUD and promote harm reduction within academic communities.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Schultz, Isabella	Bradshaw, Jessica Platt, Emma	Early Sensory Avoidance and Emerging Aggression in Infants at an Elevated Likelihood for Autism Spectrum Disorder View Full Text Abstract Text Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience behavioral challenges such as aggression, leading to additional stress for families (Swaab et al., 2017). However, aggressive behaviors do not typically emerge until early childhood (Hartley et al., 2008), limiting a critical window for early intervention (Bradshaw, 2014). A recent study found that sensory over-reactivity was linked to higher autonomic activity in 3–5-year-old children with ASD, leading to over-reactivity and aggression (Keefer et al., 2025). Infants later diagnosed with ASD display sensory processing differences in the first two years of life (Germani et al., 2014), however, it’s not yet known how early sensory differences may be linked to emerging aggression for infants at an elevated likelihood (EL) for ASD. This study examined the relationship between early sensory differences and emerging aggression in infants at low-likelihood (LL) and EL for ASD. Data were collected from healthy, full-term infants (n=41). At 9 and 12 months, caregivers completed the Toddler Sensory Profile-2 (SP2), including sensory avoidance. At 24 months, caregivers reported on their child’s aggression using the Child Behavior Checklist/1.5-5 (CBCL 1.5-5). At 9 months, there was no significant difference in sensory avoidance scores between EL and LL infants (p>0.05), however, at 12 months, EL infants scored significantly higher than LL infants (p<0.01). Sensory avoidance scores at 9 months were positively associated with aggression (p<0.01), but not at 12 months (p>0.05). Consistent with previous literature in early childhood, sensory processing differences are observable in infants at an elevated likelihood for ASD. Our findings suggest that sensory avoidance, particularly at 9 months, may be an early indicator of later aggression for both LL and EL infants. Future directions should examine additional factors at 9 months that may contribute to the development of aggression, particularly for EL and LL infants who are later diagnosed with ASD.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Walther, Sam	Pocivavsek, Ana Wright, Courtney	Prenatal Kynurenine Exposure Disrupts Sleep Across Adolescence in a Rodent Model Relevant to Neuropsychiatric Disease View Full Text Abstract Text Prenatal insults, which can activate the kynurenine pathway (KP) of tryptophan degradation, increase the risk for neuropsychiatric illness in offspring. Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a neuroactive metabolite of the KP that antagonizes NMDA and ɑ7nACh receptors, disrupting processes important for cognition and sleep. Elevated KYNA is present in the adult brain of neuropsychiatric patients, who often experience poor sleep in adolescence prior to disorder onset. In preclinical rodent studies, elevating embryonic kynurenine (direct bioprecursor to KYNA) leads to long-lasting deficits in adult offspring, including altered metabolism (elevated brain KYNA), cognitive deficits and disrupted sleep. We presently studied sleep during the adolescent period in rats exposed to embryonic kynurenine (EKyn) treatment. Pregnant Wistar rats were fed control chow (embryonic control, ECon) or chow laced with 100 mg kynurenine (EKyn) daily from embryonic day 15-22. Offspring were weaned on postnatal (PD) day 21. On PD 35, rats were implanted with radio telemetry devices to record electroencephalogram and electromyogram for objective sleep analysis. Data were acquired weekly from PD 42 (mid-adolescence) to PD 56 (adulthood). We determined distinct changes in rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM (NREM) sleep architecture across development. From PD 42 to PD 56, dark phase REM sleep duration decreased in both ECon (P<0.01) and EKyn (P<0.05) offspring, yet NREM sleep duration decreased only in EKyn offspring, suggesting differences in maturation of sleep timing. In adulthood, EKyn offspring had reduced light phase REM sleep duration compared to ECon (P<0.05). Thus, our prenatal insult, the EKyn paradigm, serves as a valuable model to examine mechanisms contributing to poor sleep that precede neuropsychiatric onset.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Madiot, Gwenael	Schools, Gary Mengqian, Chen	Assessing the Process by Which a CDK8 Inhibitor Prevents Resistance to Palbociclib in MCF7 Cells View Full Text Abstract Text Hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer is commonly treated with targeted therapies such as Palbociclib, a CDK4/6 inhibitor that induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. However, resistance to Palbociclib remains a significant clinical challenge. CDK8 and CDK19, Mediator Complex kinases, regulate gene expression changes associated with drug resistance, including the activation of STAT1 and STAT3 transcription factors. Inhibition of CDK8/19 has been shown to prevent resistance to HER2-targeting and triple-negative breast cancer therapies, suggesting a potential role in maintaining Palbociclib sensitivity in HR+ breast cancer. The study aims to investigate the role of CDK8/19 inhibition in preventing Palbociclib resistance in HR+ breast cancer using MCF-7 cell xenografts, a well-established model for studying estrogen receptor-positive tumors. The hypothesis is the combination of Palbociclib and the CDK8/19 inhibitor SNX631 will prevent the development of resistance in part by limiting the phosphorylation of STAT1/3, therefore avoiding gene expression changes required for resistance. The project first quantified Ki-67, a marker for cell division, of 4 different treatment groups (control, Palbociclib, SNX631, and Palbociclib + SNX631) through immunofluorescence staining. The result showed a significant decrease in Ki-67 between Palbociclib alone and Palbociclib + SNX631 groups. The results involving apoptosis, which was quantified through immunofluorescence of Cleaved Caspase 3, and pSTAT1 yielded no significant differences between the treatment groups. The analysis of the mean intensity of pSTAT3 and STAT3 using immunofluorescence is still ongoing. This experiment demonstrated that adding a CDK8/19 inhibitor alters the proportion of proliferating cells in tumors treated with palbociclib. In contrast, neither the fraction of apoptotic cells nor changes in STAT1 protein expression and phosphorylation levels appear to contribute to the mechanism underlying the in vivo enhancement of CDK4/6 therapy by Mediator kinase inhibition. Further understanding of those pathways may allow for a greater remission percentage in patients with HR+ breast cancer.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Little, Wade	Wuesst, Thorsten Khan, Md Irfan	Blockchain Enabled Privacy-Preserving Cross-Industrial Data Collaboration in Smart Manufacturing View Full Text Abstract Text The increasing digitalization of manufacturing systems has led to the generation of vast amounts of data. However, ensuring the integrity, security, and intelligent utilization of this data remains a major challenge. This study presents an integrated framework that combines blockchain-based data storage with Machine Learning (ML) analytics to ensure a secure, scalable, and intelligent data management system. To protect the confidentiality and integrity of stored data, symmetric encryption (Advanced Encryption Standard, AES), asymmetric encryption (Rivest–Shamir–Adleman, RSA) and a hybrid (AES+RSA) encryption method are employed and comparatively analyzed. A chatter classification model was developed to detect and classify chatter conditions in a machining process dataset. The proposed framework was evaluated by analyzing different encryption mechanisms for blockchain based storage and assessing ML models under batch and incremental settings. For data protection, the hybrid approach shows optimal performance, maintaining minimal storage overhead (~0.8% higher than AES) and reduced computational complexity compared to RSA. For chatter classification, under the batch setting, four models; Logistic regression (LR), Random Forest (RF), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) were implemented. Among them XGBoost achieved the best performance, attaining an accuracy of ~94.0%. In the incremental setting, the Hoeffding Adaptive Tree (HAT) classifier achieved accuracy around 90%. The integrated blockchain-ML framework provides a robust foundation for secure and intelligent manufacturing data management, facilitating real-time analytics and trustworthy decision making in smart manufacturing systems.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Southworth, Riwin Lee, Isabella	Burke, Fernanda	Unveiling Gut Health through VOC Analysis View Full Text Abstract Text Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that play an essential role in supporting human health by enriching the gut microbiota and promoting immune function. These organisms naturally occur in certain foods and supplements as they contribute to overall well being through their metabolic activities. One key metabolic pathway is anaerobic fermentation, during which probiotics generate a variety of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including carbon dioxide, low molecular weight alcohols, dimethyl disulfide, and benzaldehyde. Because these compounds provide insight into microbial metabolism, they can be quantitatively and qualitatively assessed using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC MS). In this method, VOCs collected via Solid Phase Microextraction (SPME) fibers are separated according to their physical and chemical properties, then further identified based on retention time and mass spectra. This study investigates the VOC profiles produced by three prominent probiotic species: Lactobacillus casei, Lactococcus lactis, and Enterococcus faecium. Our research aims to characterize the types and relative quantities of chemical compounds released during fermentation by each organism and to evaluate the suitability of GC MS for detecting these metabolites. Preliminary data show the presence of three main alcohols across the species evaluated in our study. Of particular interest is 3 methyl 1 butanol, which is present at a significantly higher level than all other volatile components. This finding will allow for narrowing the scope of compounds and enable focused comparison of additional species with probiotic potential.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Tsomos, Angeliki	Kiaris, Hippokratis	Phenotype Development in Aging Colony of Peromyscus maniculatus (BW) View Full Text Abstract Text The Peromyscus Genetic Stock Center (PGSC) of the University of South Carolina maintains different stocks of deer mice (genus Peromyscus) as closed outbred colonies for several decades. Peromyscus are commonly studied model organisms in the field of biological and biomedical research, but systematic research on their aging -related phenotypes has not been performed as yet. A cohort of BW mice was longitudinally studied at the University of South Carolina, to record the phenotypes they develop as they age. Three common phenotypes started developing in older animals, being skin tumors, tail cricks, and ataxia. In this study we determined the incidence of these in relation to age, sex, and parental relatedness. The results show that crick tails develop with high correlation to tumors and may exhibit X-linked inheritance patterns. Tumor histology revealed squamous cell carcinoma pathology that develop around and after 2 years of age. The pattern of ataxia is significantly higher in male BW than females and coincided with inflammation of the liver. These phenotypic changes are associated with high age and parental relatedness, and high relatedness has lower chances of survival. The implication of this research helps scientists know about Peromyscus phenotypes, lifespan, and any confounding variables that may impact future investigations.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Truex, Winny	Truex, Nicholas	Optimizing Clinical Infrastructure for AI-Powered Pediatric ENT Diagnostic Device Development View Full Text Abstract Text Pediatric otolaryngology (ENT) conditions such as otitis media are highly prevalent and require timely, accurate diagnosis, yet access to pediatric ENT specialists remains limited. Artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled diagnostic platforms offer the potential to augment clinical decision-making and expand telehealth capabilities; however, development of robust pediatric AI models requires high-quality, large-scale, and ethically collected datasets. We describe the iterative development of clinical research infrastructure designed to support scalable AI-powered pediatric ENT device development. Under IRB protocol and NIH SBIR Phase II funding, we conducted a hybrid observational study at Lurie Children’s Hospital to optimize recruitment, data capture, device performance, and caregiver engagement for the RemmieAI platform, a clinician-supervised Software as a Medical Device (SaMD). Recruitment evolved from clinic-based enrollment to perioperative settings and a longitudinal home-based arm, increasing participant volume and image yield. Children aged 6 months to 17 years contributed in-clinic and weekly at-home otoscopic images with symptom reports over eight weeks. Device and software enhancements, including transition from Remmie 3 to Remmie 4 and integration of a real-time object detection algorithm as a guidance overlay, substantially improved image quality and targeting. Usable image rates increased from 43% pre-guidance to 90% post-guidance. The home-based protocol generated over 1,000 images and demonstrated distinct engagement archetypes, supported by backend infrastructure enabling AI filtering, secure cloud processing, and licensed clinician review. Our findings highlight three pillars of successful AI clinical evidence generation: operational leadership, scientific and technical rigor, and sustained family engagement. Strategic recruitment expansion, human-in-the-loop AI workflows, and longitudinal home data capture were critical to building scalable pediatric datasets. These infrastructure lessons provide a replicable framework for accelerating development and validation of AI-powered diagnostic devices in pediatric specialty care.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Lamendola, Andrew	Dudycha, Jeff	Linking Maternal Diet to Offspring Lipid Stores: Transgenerational Effects of Food Environment in Daphnia View Full Text Abstract Text Maternal effects, defined as the influence of a mother’s environment and physiology on the phenotype of her offspring, are a central topic in evolutionary ecology. Daphnia, a small freshwater crustacean, has been a model for investigating maternal provisioning and resource allocation. Previous work demonstrates that maternal food conditions strongly affect offspring quality: mothers in low-food environments typically produce fewer but larger, lipid-rich eggs, enhancing neonate starvation resistance, while offspring reared under poor food conditions grow slower but can be partially buffered by maternal provisioning. Despite decades of research on high versus low food environments, no studies have explicitly tested whether maternal or offspring environment plays the stronger role in shaping lipid provisioning. This project provides a direct comparison of maternal versus offspring food environment effects on lipid content, while also testing how ecological background shapes these transgenerational dynamics. Pond (Daphnia pulex) and lake (Daphnia pulicaria) populations differ in life-history strategies, with pond populations typically exhibiting “faster” strategies and lake populations “slower” strategies, making them an ideal system for comparison. Using a 2 × 2 factorial design (maternal high vs. low food × offspring high vs. low food) in both species, lipid allocation was quantified using Nile Red fluorescence microscopy. Measurements were made after the third clutch to ensure representative adult reproductive investment. Body length and clutch size were also measured. I hypothesized that maternal diet will have a stronger effect than offspring diet on lipid storage in adult offspring, and that pond and lake species will differ in the magnitude of maternal influence.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Haynes, Madelyn	Roberts, Jane Hantman, Rachel	Parental Stress Levels in Parents of Children with ASD and ASIBs View Full Text Abstract Text Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder involving challenges with social interaction and communication, deficits in relationship skills, and repetitive or restrictive behaviors (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). A child has an elevated risk of developing ASD if they have an older sibling diagnosed with ASD (Britsch and Iverson, 2025). Parental stress results from caring for a child while parenting demands outpace resources (Abidin, 1992). Studies report parental stress levels are higher in parents of children with ASD than in parents of neurotypical children (Pastor-Cerezuela et al., 2016); however, the relationship between parents’ stress regarding their child with ASD and their younger siblings (ASIBs) is understudied. Filling this gap will further knowledge into ASIBs and how parents’ stress is impacted by this population. Using the Parental Stress Index (PSI-SF; Abidin, 1995) to measure parents’ stress levels, an independent t-test was completed to identify the difference between stress in parents of children with ASD compared to ASIBs. It was hypothesized that parental stress levels would be lower for ASIBs than for children with ASD. Participants included mothers of 82 toddlers: 60 (85% males, mean age 3.78 years) diagnosed with ASD and 22 (54.55% males, mean age 3.53 years) ASIBs. The results indicated higher levels of stress in parents of children with ASD than in parents of ASIBs (t(80) = 3.881, p < .001). This may be because ASIBs have less severe symptoms of ASD than their older siblings or because parents experience more self-efficacy with their second child (Pisula and Ziegart-Sadowska, 2015; Vanaken et al., 2024). These results will help first-time parents of toddlers by offering appropriate resources and will help parents earlier in their child’s life, reducing stress that would otherwise persist. Future research could evaluate role of sibling order or compare the parental stress of ASIBs to neurotypical children.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Gazzelli, Elenora	Young, Sarah	The Effect of Recent Military Policy Shifts on Public Service Motivation of ROTC Cadets and College-Enrolled Service Members View Full Text Abstract Text Our study explores public service motivation in ROTC cadets and college-enrolled service members. The public service motivation (PSM) scholarship emphasizes how public sector workers are drawn to careers due to intrinsic incentives (qualities internal to the job itself) even more than extrinsic incentives (externally provided compensation such as pay or benefits). Our study considers how public service motivation of students pursuing military careers may be impacted by current military policy changes. Our hypothesis is that respondents indicating higher levels of PSM in their reasons to pursue military service will report feeling more negatively impacted due to these policy shifts than those who indicate less PSM. We operationalize negative impact as respondents expressing decreased confidence, pride, and/or motivation to pursue a military career within the past year. We will administer an anonymous online survey utilizing a widely-respected measure of PSM (see Kim et al 2013) to the military population on the USC Aiken campus. The study will add to the literature on PSM by considering how policy shifts in deployment, funding, and public perception of military service impact service members’ and recruits’ incentivization experiences. We will also add to the body of data-informed PSM studies that emphasize college service members as a particular population of interest. Survey administration is ongoing and results are forthcoming.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Björk, Emily	Wang, Yi Whisenant, Jacob	Database Development for Reliable Small Object Detection in Maritime Environment View Full Text Abstract Text This research project entails the development of a small object detection dataset for maritime environments through sensor-based data collection, manual and AI-assisted image labeling, and training YOLO detection models on a GPU workstation to enhance detection performance across both RGB and infrared (IR) sensors. There is a widely recognized need for next-generation multi-intelligence sensing and machine learning frameworks for target detection and characterization for security purposes. Currently in maritime security, standard detection models tend to struggle with small-scale targets, such as small watercraft, buoys, and faraway buildings, as detail tends to get lost in images, and the quantity of easily accessible data overall is very limited in data diversity with currently available datasets for model training. To mitigate these challenges, this project involves the development of a comprehensive small object detection database through real-world data capture using single and dual-sensor modalities. We utilize both RGB and infrared sensors to ensure wider datasets in our data collection with objects that are typically indistinguishable at first glance. Following the data capture phase, the research involves thorough manual image labeling using MATLAB to establish a high-fidelity ground truth for the training set. Subsequently, we use these labeled images to train YOLO (You Only Look Once) models on a GPU workstation on that data and leverage parallel processing for more efficient real-time processing and object detection performance through logic comparisons. In conclusion, this work significantly enhances detection reliability and accuracy in the maritime environment through conducting detailed dataset analysis and systematic logic comparisons across the dual sensor inputs. This research has many possible applications that help the community through visual servoing and real-time autonomous computer vision for obstacle learning and path planning, and it translates into maritime environments by providing the development of safer navigation systems for autonomous vessels.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Patel, Prisha	Bradshaw, Jessica Djiko, Tessa	Associations Between Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia and Joint Engagement in Infants at Varying Likelihood for Autism Spectrum Disorder View Full Text Abstract Text About 1 in 31 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the United States (CDC, 2025). ASD is characterized by challenges in social communication and interaction, and restrictive/repetitive behaviors (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Emerging studies have hypothesized that these behavioral differences may be linked to emotional dysregulation associated with autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction, indexed by respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) (Owens et al., 2021). However, limited research has been conducted on the relationship between RSA patterns and early behavioral markers, such as joint engagement, in infants with varying autism likelihood. The study aims to determine whether early physiological and behavioral responses can serve as biomarkers for ASD likelihood. The study includes 87 participants classified into one of two groups: 1) infants with a biological sibling with ASD or who were born preterm, defined as the elevated likelihood-ASD group (EL-ASD), or 2) infants having no family history of ASD, defined as the low likelihood group (LL-ASD). Infant-cargivers dyads will participate in a 7-minute free-play interaction, with a 5-minute play period (phase 1) in which the dyad interacts and a 2-minute period in which the caregiver ignores the child (phase 2). RSA is derived from ECG recordings during the assessment. Joint engagement during free play is coded using the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI). Group differences are examined using Welch’s t-tests, and multiple linear regression assessed associations between RSA and joint engagement across likelihood groups. We hypothesize that EL-ASD infants will show lower RSA during social interactive play and reduced joint engagement during interaction compared to LL-ASD infants. Additionally, we predict that RSA scores will positively predict joint engagement scores, with higher associations among the LL-ASD group. The study examines whether autonomic responses correlate with social behaviors, providing a pathway for early intervention for infants at elevated autism likelihood.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Oh, Sewon	Shinkareva, Svetlana	Validation of the Misophonia Audiovisual Trigger Archive (MATA) View Full Text Abstract Text Individuals suffering from misophonia experience intense emotional distress in response to specific sounds and related stimuli (Swedo et al., 2022). Common everyday sounds like keyboard typing, chewing, or clock ticking, that are typically perceived as mildly annoying or inconsequential by most people, can evoke disproportionate emotional reactions in individuals with misophonia. Despite growing recognition of its clinical significance, progress in understanding the condition has been hindered by the limited availability of standardized and ecologically valid stimulus sets. To address this gap, we developed an open-access archive of over 1,400 five-second audiovisual misophonic triggers: Misophonia Audiovisual Trigger Archive (MATA). We demonstrate the utility of the archive in a sample of 26 individuals with misophonia and two control groups. Prior studies have assessed the responses to misophonia triggers using a distress scale in individuals with misophonia and an antisocial scale in those without misophonia (Kumar et al., 2017; O’Reilly et al., 2025). With one control group, we replicated this approach. However, this design limits direct comparability between groups. Therefore, in a second control group, we examined the responses using a matched distress scale. MATA provides a standardized and accessible resource that lowers barriers to studying misophonia and facilitates mechanistic, clinical, and translational research on the disorder.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Mattos, Felipe	Glenias, Patrick	Applied Sports Nutrition Strategies for Soccer Players Across Match Day and the Competitive Season View Full Text Abstract Text Soccer is a high intensity intermittent sport that places substantial metabolic and physiological demands on athletes throughout training and competition. At the elite level, teams may compete in approximately 55 to 65 matches per year, often with limited recovery time between games. Soccer match play is characterized by prolonged total distance covered combined with more than a thousand unpredictable high intensity actions, including frequent accelerations, changes of direction, jumps, and sprint efforts, resulting in considerable metabolic and neuromuscular demands. Within this context, sports nutrition plays an important role in supporting energy availability, hydration, and recovery across the season. The purpose of this literature review is to examine applied sports nutrition strategies in soccer, with emphasis on match preparation, post-match recovery, and seasonal demands. The literature consistently highlights the importance of adequate carbohydrate intake and timing to support match day energy requirements and training quality. Hydration strategies, including fluid and electrolyte replacement, are emphasized as essential for managing sweat losses and supporting recovery between matches. Post match nutrition is commonly identified as a critical recovery window, prioritizing carbohydrate replenishment alongside sufficient protein intake to promote muscle repair and readiness for subsequent training or competition. As match frequency increases across the season, nutritional strategies are framed as practical tools to help manage accumulated fatigue, support recovery processes, and maintain training availability. Overall, evidence suggests that effective sports nutrition in soccer should be adapted to match demands, training load, and seasonal structure, particularly in environments characterized by frequent competition and limited recovery time.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kohlmann, Samantha	Outten, F. Wayne Miller, Kennedy	Functional Characterization of Iron-Sulfur Cluster Binding in the E. coli Ferric Uptake Regulator (Fur) View Full Text Abstract Text Iron is an essential cofactor required for central metabolic and redox processes, including respiration, DNA synthesis, and iron–sulfur (Fe–S) cluster biogenesis. In Escherichia coli, intracellular iron must be tightly regulated to support Fe–S cluster assembly while preventing oxidative stress caused by excess free iron. Iron homeostasis is controlled in part by the ferric uptake regulatory protein (Fur), a metal-dependent transcription factor that coordinates expression of genes involved in iron acquisition, storage, and utilization. While Fur has classically been described as an iron-activated DNA-binding repressor, prior work has demonstrated that it can also bind an Fe–S cluster, suggesting a potential link between Fe–S cluster status and transcriptional regulation. This project investigates the mechanism by which Fur acquires its Fe–S cluster in vitro and evaluates whether cluster delivery occurs via known Fe–S trafficking proteins, including the monothiol glutaredoxin, GrxD, and the A-type carriers. To investigate this, Fur is overexpressed and purified for anaerobic biochemical reconstitution and spectroscopic analysis. Iron–sulfur cluster formation and associated changes in protein properties are monitored using circular dichroism and UV–Visible Absorption Spectroscopy to detect characteristic Fe–S spectral features. Ongoing studies assess cluster transfer reactions between Fur and candidate trafficking proteins in vitro. This work seeks to clarify how iron sensing is integrated with Fe–S cluster biogenesis and trafficking, ultimately refining current models of bacterial iron homeostasis and redox-responsive transcriptional control.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Munoz-Jeon, Ariadna Julia	Mousseau, Timothy	Radiation, Rivals, and the Race for Space: How intraspecific competition and environmental covariates affect space use & presence of large herbivores in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone View Full Text Abstract Text The 1986 Chernobyl power plant disaster contaminated the surrounding area’s soil, water, and biota with radiocaesium (Cs-137), causing rapid and widespread death of pine trees, vegetation, and animals. New trees have since been planted in the de facto ecological reserve of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ), allowing for the study of a highly contaminated, recovering environment that experiences relatively little anthropogenic disturbance. The recolonization success of CEZ wildlife is a widely debated topic. Some argue that the reserve is a haven for thriving wildlife, while others report that radiation is still negatively affecting population distribution. Researchers have analyzed vegetation productivity within the CEZ using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) to understand these dynamics, but the relationship between radiation and NDVI is similarly inconclusive, with some studies finding no significant correlation, and others pointing to a potential inhibitory effect. This ambiguity raises critical questions regarding the ungulate herbivore species, which are dependent on vegetation. While their foraging behaviors and competitive interactions are well-studied in undisturbed habitats, it is unknown how these patterns are influenced by the unique conditions of the CEZ. Population densities of large ungulate species such as red deer (Cervus elaphus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), and moose (Alces alces) are comparable to those in uncontaminated habitats. Yet, these species’ ecological interactions and spatial dynamics are poorly characterized. This study proposes to address this critical knowledge gap by investigating the distribution and space-use of these three species in relation to vegetation (NDVI) across a radiation gradient, and will provide insight into foraging patterns and competition between and within these species (intraspecific and interspecific competition), and form a richer characterization of CEZ wildlife recolonization.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Burzee, Zachery	Rebar, Amanda	Combat Deployments Moderate the Within-Person Association Between Depressive Symptoms and Physical Activity Among Service-Affiliated Adults View Full Text Abstract Text Background Depressive symptoms are consistently associated with lower physical activity; however, most evidence derives from between-person comparisons that obscure how symptom fluctuations relate to behavior within individuals over time. This distinction is particularly important among military-affiliated adults, who experience elevated cardiometabolic risk and unique stress exposures related to combat deployment. Clarifying whether deployment history shapes the dynamic association between depressive symptoms and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) may inform more precise behavioral health and chronic disease prevention efforts. Methods Service-affiliated adults (N = 99; 577 weekly observations across six weeks) completed repeated assessments of depressive symptoms (DASS-21) and MVPA (IPAQ–Short Form). MVPA (minutes/week) was log-transformed to correct skewness. Multilevel mixed-effects models with random intercepts estimated within-person associations using person-mean–centered depressive symptoms, isolating week-to-week deviations from individuals’ typical symptom levels. Combat deployments (0–3) were modeled categorically to test cross-level moderation. Models adjusted for age, gender, and BMI. Results Among participants with no combat deployments, weeks characterized by higher-than-usual depressive symptoms were associated with approximately 9% lower MVPA (β = −0.098, p = .066). Combat deployment history significantly moderated this association. Individuals with two deployments demonstrated a reversal of this pattern (interaction β = 0.297, p = .014), such that weeks with elevated depressive symptoms were associated with approximately 22% greater MVPA. Moderation effects for one and three deployments were not statistically significant. Random slope models did not improve model fit, indicating that deployment history accounted for meaningful heterogeneity in depression–MVPA dynamics. Conclusions Combat deployment history fundamentally alters how depressive symptom fluctuations relate to physical activity. Rather than uniformly suppressing activity, increases in depressive symptoms may prompt adaptive behavioral responses among some veterans. These findings challenge static assumptions about depression–behavior linkages and underscore the importance of deployment-informed physical activity and behavioral health interventions.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Evans, Vanessa	Mann, Emily	The Intersection of Politics and Medicine: Pre-medical Student Knowledge and Perspectives on Women’s Reproductive Healthcare Access View Full Text Abstract Text This qualitative study explored pre-medical students’ knowledge and perspectives about women’s reproductive healthcare access, with a focus on restricted abortion access. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with a convenience sample of 20 pre-medical students currently enrolled in a four-year university in the United States. Thematic codebook analysis yielded eight themes related to participants’ understandings of reproductive healthcare and abortion access. Findings indicated that while most participants had general knowledge of what reproductive healthcare entails, many did not have a complete understanding of abortion access and procedures. Most pre-medical students knew that Dobbs v. Jackson eliminated the constitutional right to abortion; however, many were uncertain about specific abortion laws in their state. When asked about barriers to abortion, common responses included insurance coverage, cost, distance from a clinic, and stigma. Most participants believed that abortion bans infringe on a woman’s right to bodily autonomy and wanted to see abortion restrictions reversed nationwide. Additionally, most participants believed that abortion education in medical school is crucial for reducing stigma, improving patient-physician relationships, and providing quality prenatal care. Lastly, regardless of personal views about abortion and abortion rights, many participants’ responses to interview questions used stigmatizing language when describing abortion that reflects anti-abortion rhetoric. These study findings advance our understanding of the implications of abortion restrictions by shedding light on pre-medical students’ knowledge and unique perspectives on abortion access and education and suggest the importance of destigmatizing abortion in medical education.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Parise, Sanjana	Patel, Rekha Swager, Emily	Role of PKR in Regulating the Integrated Stress Response (ISR) During Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Stress View Full Text Abstract Text Many neurodegenerative diseases, including some forms of dystonia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Huntington’s diseases, involve chronic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which is a critical component of disease progression. Disruption in ER homeostasis is regulated through the Integrated Stress Response (ISR), an evolutionarily conserved pathway activated in eukaryotic cells. The core event of this pathway is the phosphorylation of eIF2α, a critical translation initiation factor. Phosphorylation of eIF2α attenuates general protein synthesis while allowing selective translation of stress response proteins. These proteins promote either recovery and homeostasis or cellular apoptosis (programmed cell death), depending on the intensity and duration of the stress signals. One of the kinases that initiates this core event is PKR, which is traditionally defined as a viral response protein and can be activated by directly binding dsRNA or by binding to its upstream activator protein PACT. Our lab has shown that PKR is activated by PACT under ER stress conditions, directly linking PKR to cellular fate decisions under ER stress. To examine the contribution of PKR to the restoration of homeostasis through the ISR, this experiment utilized a human neuroblastoma cell line SK-N-SH, which has been stably transfected with a plasmid containing a puromycin selection marker and a catalytically inactive mutant of PKR, known as K296R. K296R forms homodimers with the endogenous wild-type PKR expressed in cells, leading to PKR inhibition. After treating the cells with tunicamycin, an ER stress-inducing drug, I examined how catalytically inactive PKR affects eIF2α phosphorylation and downstream ISR signaling. I hypothesized that the absence of PKR would compromise the ISR, resulting in delayed or reduced p-eIF2α, ATF4, and CHOP expression. Understanding this pathway provides key insights into the molecular causes of cell death in neurodegenerative diseases and supports new therapeutic approaches.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bradbury, Alexia	Vannucci, Aaron Maybach, Laura	Electronic State and Selectivity Relationships of a New Class of Hybrid Catalysts on Metal Oxide Supports View Full Text Abstract Text Heterogenous catalysts are currently utilized because of their long catalyst lifetimes and ease in separation. Homogeneous molecular catalysts are used because of their unmatched product selectivity. Hybrid catalysts take the benefits of both types by anchoring molecular catalysts onto heterogeneous supports. Second row transition metals, though rare and expensive, are currently used within these catalysts for their strong stability and selectivity. To make these catalysts more accessible, their first-row transition metal counterparts should be used instead, for sustainability and costs sake. First row transition metals are not used often though because they tend to be too unpredictable, which leads to short catalyst lifetimes. Thus, new strategies are needed to correct this problem and enable their use in a specified manner. We have developed a new procedure for anchoring molecular catalysts to oxide supports through metal-ester bonds and this new anchoring influences the reactivity of the hybrid catalysts. This linkage also prevents many decomposition routes, most notably dimerization. Thus, a first-row transition metal can be a replacement for the second-row transition metals with the right procedure. Initially, a nickel catalyst, instead of a second-row palladium catalyst, was utilized for Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reactions, and the conditions were optimized to achieve the highest percent yield. Following this, a manganese catalyst for CO, reduction was developed to replace expensive rhenium catalysts, and IR characterization of the carbonyl ligands allowed us to measure changes in metal center electron density, thus changing the selectivity of the catalyst. In the end, we achieved a new understanding of the electronic state and the specificity relationship of molecular catalysts on metal oxide supports through a metal-oxide-ester binding motif.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Price, Sherry	Hébert, James Bowes, Devin	Wastewater Prostaglandins as Consistent Community Level Biomarkers of Inflammation View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Chronic inflammation contributes to cancer risk and other adverse health outcomes. Prostaglandins are lipid mediators that reflect systemic inflammatory activity. Although wastewater-based epidemiology has been widely applied to infectious diseases and substance use, the measurement and interpretation of endogenous inflammatory biomarkers in wastewater remain limited, with few studies extending beyond detection. Objective: To evaluate whether wastewater prostaglandins demonstrate sufficient analytical reliability, measurable magnitude, and structured population-level variability to support their development as community-level biomarkers of inflammation. Methods: Twenty-four-hour composite wastewater samples were collected weekly from April through June 2025 at two treatment facilities serving communities of different population sizes, yielding 36 samples, 27 from Site A and 9 from Site B. The analytical targets were Prostaglandin F2a and Prostaglandin E2. Samples were processed using solid-phase extraction and quantified using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry with isotope dilution. Concentrations were converted to daily mass loads using measured flow and normalized by population estimates. Linear and mixed effects models evaluated site differences and temporal trends. Results: Both prostaglandins were consistently detected across all sampling weeks. Prostaglandin F2a ranged from 10 to 160 ng/L and Prostaglandin E2 ranged from 60 to 360 ng/L, comparable to or exceeding concentrations reported in prior wastewater studies of oxidative stress biomarkers. Site A accounted for more than 95 percent of total prostaglandin mass loads. Location and time were significant predictors of log mass loads, and site and time explained approximately 92 percent of observed variance, indicating structured population-level patterns rather than random variation. Conclusions: These findings extend prior wastewater prostaglandin research by demonstrating reproducible quantification and clear site-level and temporal structure. The observed magnitudes and trends support the feasibility of advancing toward wastewater-informed inflammatory surveillance and future development of a community-level inflammatory index.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Brennen, Hannah	Hollis, Fiona Gorman-Sandler, Erin Cloude, Nazharee Mullaly, Alaina Wood, Gabrielle Munyanya, Mercy	Nicotinamide alters postpartum hippocampal mitochondrial protein expression and behavior in a at model of gestational stress View Full Text Abstract Text Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious peripartum mood disorder that affects 1 in 7 mothers and is associated with anhedonia, disrupted maternal care, and, in severe cases, suicidal ideation. Despite its prevalence, the neurobiological mechanisms of PPD are poorly understood. The hippocampus (HPC), a brain structure involved in cognition, is highly susceptible to stress, a significant risk factor for PPD. The HPC experiences functional and structural changes during the peripartum that are important for maternal behavior but may also increase stress susceptibility. Mitochondria, organelles responsible for energy production, are fundamental in many postpartum adaptations. Thus, altered HPC mitochondrial function may contribute to PPD. We previously found that HPC respiration decreases across the postpartum period. This study investigated HPC mitochondria as potential targets for PPD preventative therapy. Nicotinamide (NAM), a vitamin B3 derivative and a mitochondrial substrate precursor, prevented stress-induced decreases in prefrontal mitochondrial function in our prior work. We hypothesized that NAM would buffer HPC mitochondrial respiration and mitigate stress effects on postpartum behaviors. To test this hypothesis, we divided adult female Wistar rats into eight groups based on reproductive status (nulliparous or primiparous), stress exposure (stressed or non-stressed), and treatment (NAM or vehicle). Stressed groups underwent chronic mild unpredictable stress for 10 days in late gestation. We assessed maternal care and avoidance behaviors during the early- to mid-postpartum. In the mid-postpartum, HPC mitochondrial function was measured via high-resolution respirometry, and protein expression was quantified by western blots. NAM differentially affected postpartum maternal behavior but did not prevent stress-induced avoidance behavior. Moreover, NAM decreased HPC complex II-linked mitochondrial respiration across pregnancy and stress conditions but upregulated HPC complex II protein expression. There was also a significant NAM x pregnancy x stress interaction of HPC mitochondrial content. Future studies will examine the persistence of these effects across the postpartum.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hartner, Ashleigh	Hirsch, Katie Unrein, Callie Rhoades, Sarah Babcock, Elias	Associations Between Energetic Status and Body Composition, Resting Metabolic Rate, and Phase Angle in Recreationally Active Women View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: Adequate energy intake is essential for physiological function and health. When intake is inadequate, adaptations in body-composition and resting-metabolic-rate (RMR) can occur. Reductions in fat-mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), and phase-angle (PhA) reflect insufficient energy availability, while suppressed RMR reflects energy conservation. This study evaluated differences in body composition and metabolism between women with high (HE) and low (LE) energetic status. Methods: Sixty-one healthy, recreationally active women (Age: 21.8±4.0yrs; BMI: 23.2±2.8kg/m2; %BF: 25.7±6.7%) were assessed during the low-hormone-phase (1-7 days post-menstruation). Body composition (%BF, FM, FFM, skeletal-muscle-mass [SMM]) and PhA were assessed via bioimpedance analysis. Measured RMR (RMRm), via indirect calorimetry, and predicted RMR (RMRp), from the Cunningham 1991 equation (500+(22×FFM[kg])), were used to classify women as HE (RMRm/RMRp≥0.92) or LE (<0.92). Caloric intake (CI; kcal) from a 24-hour food log was used to calculate energy-balance-ratio (EBR=CI/(RMRm × 1.55)). Independent t-tests assessed group differences. Results: HE was observed in 36 individuals (mean±SD: 0.98±0.05) and LE in 25 individuals (mean±SD: 0.86±0.04). LE had lower %BF (mean difference[MD]±SE: -6.1±1.6%; p<0.001) and FM (MD±SE: -4.2±1.5kg; p=0.007) compared to HE. There were no significant differences in FFM (MD±SE: 2.0±1.5kg; p=0.195), SMM (MD±SE: 1.1±0.90kg; p=0.216), or PhA (MD±SE: -0.08±0.16˚; p=0.623). LE had lower RMRm (MD±SE: -142.8±36.4 kcal/day; p<0.001), but higher CI (MD±SE: 480.0±200.4 kcal; p=0.020) and EBR (MD±SE: 0.3±0.1; p=0.003) than HE. Conclusion: Women with LE demonstrated suppressed RMR, despite higher CI and EBR, suggesting metabolic suppression and increased weight gain risk. Lower body fat without differences in FFM, SMM, or PhA suggests acute LE initially impacts adiposity and metabolism. Future research should incorporate multi-day dietary-tracking and exercise expenditure measures to clarify chronic metabolic and cellular implications.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Moser, Ryan	Heyden, Andreas Zare, Mehdi	Developing a Machine Learning Potential for Catalyst Discovery in the Liquid Phase View Full Text Abstract Text Accurately modeling catalytic behavior under realistic liquid-phase conditions is essential for understanding a wide range of chemical reactions; however, traditional computational methods achieve this precision only at computational costs that are currently infeasible. Current methods face a fundamental trade-off. Approaches such as density functional theory (DFT) struggle to model large-scale systems over long timescales, while classical molecular dynamics methods based on force fields efficiently reach long timescales but often fail to accurately predict key energetic quantities, such as adsorption energies and activation barriers. This project develops machine learning potentials capable of efficiently modeling reactions at solid-liquid interfaces with accuracy comparable to that of DFT. The insights gained will establish a framework for extending high-fidelity modeling to complex, solvent-mediated catalytic systems that are currently beyond reach. To showcase the efficiency of this new methodology, an aqueous-phase alkoxy-hydrogenation reaction over Ru(0001) was used as a test case. This system demonstrates that the novel approach accurately captures the necessary physics of a complex, catalytic interface. Ultimately, this work will accelerate catalyst design and contribute to the advancement of sustainable and data-driven chemical technologies.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Mann, David	Porcu, Alessandra	Shifting Identity: Adolescent Light Cycle Disruption Alters Neurotransmitter Phenotype in Medial Amygdala Circuits View Full Text Abstract Text The increasing prevalence of artificial light at night has disrupted the environmental light–dark cycle that synchronizes circadian rhythms and supports optimal brain function. Emerging evidence links altered light environments to changes in mood, cognition, and mental health. Adolescence represents a critical window of neurodevelopment that is particularly sensitive to environmental perturbations; however, the consequences of light disruption during this period remain poorly understood. The medial amygdala (MeA), a region critical for regulating social and innate approach/avoidance behaviors, receives direct input from light-sensitive retinal ganglion cells, positioning it as a potential target of environmental light disruption. Neuronal circuits can adapt to environmental changes through neurotransmitter switching, a form of phenotypic plasticity that alters neuronal identity. We therefore hypothesized that light cycle disruption during adolescence drives neurotransmitter switching in MeA circuits. To test this hypothesis, we exposed adolescent mice to a chronic light cycle disruption (LCD) paradigm consisting of 19 hours of light and 5 hours of darkness for 5 days per week, followed by a standard 12:12 light–dark cycle for 2 days per week, over a period of four weeks. Following LCD exposure, mice were transcardially perfused and brains were collected and processed for immunohistochemistry and RNAscope in situ hybridization to assess neuronal phenotype in the MeA. We observed significant alterations in medial amygdala (MeA) neuronal phenotype, including an increased number of somatostatin (SST)-expressing neurons, reduced GABAergic marker expression, and elevated SST/GABA co-expression. These findings suggest that chronic circadian light disruption during adolescence drives phenotypic remodeling within MeA circuits, consistent with neurotransmitter switching. Such circuit-level adaptations may increase vulnerability to anxiety-related behaviors during adolescence.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
McGarvey, Claire	Yuan, Lang Sun, Can	Effect of Process Parameters on Porosity in Tantalum Fabricated via Laser Powder Bed Fusion View Full Text Abstract Text Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) is an additive manufacturing process in which metallic powder layers are selectively melted using a high-energy laser. In this study, tantalum was used to investigate the influence of two primary process parameters - laser power and scanning speed - on porosity and microhardness. Particular emphasis was placed on the role of volumetric energy density and its relationship to pore formation. Optimal processing parameters were determined through systematic experimental evaluation and comparison with previously reported literature. Based on both this study and reported findings, the optimal laser power range was identified as 380–420 W. A significant increase in porosity was observed at lower power levels, demonstrating the critical role of laser power in controlling melt-pool stability. This observation, along with findings within this study and other literature, supports the conclusion that volumetric energy density alone does not fully define porosity behavior, as the individual contribution of laser power influences melt dynamics and defect formation. The optimal scanning speed range was determined to be 400–800 mm/s. Speeds outside the optimal range resulted in overheating and keyholing at low speeds and insufficient melting at high speeds. Overall, this study defines a processing window for LPBF-fabricated tantalum that minimizes porosity by balancing energy input and melt-pool stability, providing guidance for defect mitigation in refractory metal additive manufacturing.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Ramadoss Muthuselvam, Ineya	Patel, Rekha Avula, Sravanthi	Molecular mechanisms in dystonia, a movement disorder caused by mutations in the PRKRA gene, reveal overactive integrated stress response (ISR) pathway View Full Text Abstract Text DYT-PRKRA (Dystonia-PRKRA, also known as DYT16) is a rare autosomal recessive movement disorder caused by mutations in the PRKRA gene, which encodes PACT, a protein activator of interferon-induced protein kinase (PKR). Our previous research demonstrated that the P222L mutation enhances PKR activation and dysregulates the integrated stress response (ISR). Under cellular stress conditions such as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, PACT activates PKR, leading to phosphorylation of eIF2α, a key regulatory event in ISR activation. While transient eIF2α phosphorylation promotes adaptive gene expression and recovery, prolonged activation triggers pro-apoptotic pathways that may contribute to DYT16 pathology. In this study, we investigated the effects of the P222L mutation using lymphoblast cells derived from DYT16 patients to further characterize the underlying ISR dysregulation. Cells from two wild-type family members and three dystonia patients carrying the P222L mutation were subjected to ER stress using tunicamycin. Western blot analysis was performed to assess key ISR markers, including phosphorylated PKR, eIF2α, ATF4, CHOP, and cleaved PARP1 as a marker of apoptosis. Our data showed that lymphoblasts harboring the P222L mutation exhibit increased PKR activation and sustained ISR signaling following ER stress, accompanied by elevated eIF2α phosphorylation, increased ATF4 and CHOP expression, and enhanced cleaved PARP1 levels, indicating heightened apoptosis. We also examined the upstream ISR regulator PERK to determine whether it contributes to enhanced PKR activation. Notably, PERK activation after ER stress was not altered, suggesting that the PACT mutation specifically enhances PKR-mediated ISR activation. Importantly, treatment with luteolin, a bioactive flavonoid, significantly reduced stress-induced apoptosis in dystonia patient cells, indicating that pharmacological modulation of excessive ISR signaling may have therapeutic potential. Together, these findings provide critical insight into the molecular pathomechanism of DYT-PRKRA and highlight PKR-driven ISR dysregulation as a potential therapeutic target.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Powell, Austin	Moussa Rogers, Mary	Is Tobacco Free Really Tobacco Free? View Full Text Abstract Text Electronic cigarette (EC) use has steadily risen, bringing new psychological and social issues, specially creating challenges for policies. For example, recent standards suggest implementing a tobacco-free and smoke-free environment for workplaces and university campuses, with no updated language regarding nicotine free spaces as smokeless ability to enforce policies decrease. Along with EC use rising, new trends in nicotine pouch (NP) consumption begun around 2020 in the United States. Both ECs and NPs make stealth use more possible compared to combustible cigarettes or dip, chew, and snus. With both ECs and NPs being flavored and more discrete than their tobacco counterparts, each are increasingly attractive to new demographics of nicotine consumers who perceive these products as more safe to use than their tobacco counterparts, which increases risk of mortality and morbidity rates in educational and work environments. With the lack of literature comparing nicotine use motivations and possible health outcomes across environments where smoke free or tobacco free policies are implemented, as well as across form of nicotine used it is increasingly important to understand the stealth use behaviors for early intervention and policy change in prohibited locations. This study aims to clarify the current trends in nicotine use across types in environments with tobacco-free or smoke-free policies. The project will gather information from past and present nicotine users through Prolific. Measures include questionnaires assessing nicotine use frequency and motives, perceptions of policy and use in workplace or school environments, and demographics. For analyses, total scores of each measure will be created by summing or averaging items. Frequencies and descriptive statistics will be examined to evaluate use types across prohibited locations. Chi-square analyses will be conducted via SPSS to examine if there are significant differences across types of nicotine use and location of prohibited use.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Reiter, Koen	Enos, Reilly Hope, Trey	Overexpression of Adipose Tissue Androgen Receptor High-fat Diet Fed Male Mice View Full Text Abstract Text The impact of sex steroid and sex steroid receptors in metabolically important organs within the context of obesity. We want to understand if sex steroids or their receptors are able to ameliorate effects of obesity such as hyperinsulinemia, disrupted glucose handling, insulin resistance, hepatic lipid accumulation and weight gain. The specific project investigates if androgen receptor overexpression in the fat tissue of mice can ameliorate the effects of a high fat diet on the mice.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Cully, Anna	Shimizu, Linda Upadhyay, Geeta	Molecular Docking Analysis of NSC243928 and related compounds to target Ly6K and Triple-Negative Breast Cancer View Full Text Abstract Text Lymphocyte antigen 6K (Ly6K) is a small protein normally expressed only in the testes, but it is present in many solid cancers, such as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), and is correlated with low survival outcomes. However, disrupting Ly6K function using various methods leads to tumor cell death without affecting healthy cells, making it an ideal therapeutic target. Working with other research institutions on this NIH-funded project, we are working to develop a chemical compound that can target this specific protein and potentially shut down the TNBC tumor cells. Already, small molecule NSC243928 (structurally similar to the existing cancer drug amsacrine) has been identified as effective in tagging Ly6K for destruction, and therefore treating TNBC. NSC243928 is somewhat efficient in binding, and testing is still ongoing for its overall effectiveness, but the possibility of better alternative ligands for Ly6K bonding and destruction is being explored. Through AutoDock Vina and PyMol docking visualization software, we have studied 141 alternative proprietary ligands. Four different bonding sites on Ly6K have been identified, and ΔG° values were compared to find the best structures. Going forward, further testing is needed to analyze the site differences relative to efficacy and mode of action, and the most promising compounds can be tested in vivo to be compared to NSC243928.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Chan, Wae Man	Hudac, Caitlin Cramer-Benjamin, Sophie Mace, Olivia	Neural Auditory Attention Profiles Across Autism-Associated Monogenic Groups View Full Text Abstract Text Monogenic conditions associated with autism have been linked to disruptions in sensory processing and attentional differences. Although cognitive and behavioral profiles have been described across monogenic groups, not much is known about how genetic variation influences neural responses to auditory changes, particularly attentional orienting. Attentional orienting is the automatic shift of attention toward salient stimuli and plays an important role in everyday social communication. Because language and social communication challenges are common in autism-related conditions, it is important to examine whether orienting responses differ when auditory novelty involves speech versus tone stimuli. We hypothesized that attentional orienting to novel sounds would be similar across speech and tone contexts. Participants included 45 individuals with pathogenetic variants in SETBP1, GRIN2B, MED13L, and SCN2A. EEG data was collected using a passive auditory oddball paradigm. Analyses focused on P3 amplitude (125-450 ms post-stimulus), a measure of attentional orienting to novel sounds. P3 amplitudes were compared between novel and frequent stimuli across speech and tone tasks and examined within each genetic group. Linear mixed-effects models revealed a main effect of condition such that, across individuals, P3 amplitude was higher in the novel condition compared to the frequent condition (F(1,23503)= 9.25, p=0.002). A condition by gene interaction was also found (F(3,23503)=3.08, p=0.03). Post-hoc analyses revealed that the SCN2A group showed the strongest condition effect (B=-1.13, p=0.001). There were no other gene groups that showed significant P3 condition differences, and no significant differences in P3 amplitude between the speech and tone tasks were found (ps>0.05). Attentional orienting responses to auditory novelty were similar across speech and tone contexts, suggesting that early auditory attention mechanisms operate similarly for language-related and non-language sounds. Understanding early attention processes may help connect genetics, brain function, and everyday communication, and inform future genetic research approaches.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Webb, Emily	Fillo, Jennifer	Social resources as protective factors against alcohol misuse among adults in the US, 2024 View Full Text Abstract Text Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the most common substance use disorder in the US, yet only ~5% of those with AUD receive treatment annually. Research shows that social/interpersonal factors (e.g., family/romantic relationships) can mitigate alcohol misuse and encourage treatment; however, substance use treatments remain largely individual-focused, and recent population-level research examining these effects remains sparse. This study examined relations between social resources and alcohol use patterns in a nationally representative sample. Using data from the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (most recent publicly available wave; n=24,068), analyses tested differences in alcohol variables (past month: any use, quantity, frequency, binge, heavy drinking, AUD) by marital status (never/previous/current), children in the home (none/any), and living situation (alone/with others), controlling for sex and age. Weighted regression models accounted for complex sampling. Currently (vs. never) married individuals were 34% more likely to drink, consumed 23% fewer drinks per occasion, had 23% lower odds of binge drinking, 26% lower odds of heavy drinking, and 20% lower odds of meeting AUD criteria. Those with children in the home (vs. none) were 24% less likely to drink, had 12% lower drinking frequency, and 21% lower odds of meeting AUD criteria. Living with others was associated with 9% lower drinking frequency, but 12% higher odds of binge drinking. Results show that family-level social resources may protect against alcohol misuse/AUD. Children in the home was related to drinking less often and lower odds of AUD. Whereas marriage was associated with greater likelihood of any drinking, it also appears to protect individuals from more hazardous drinking patterns and AUD. This same protective effect was not observed for the presence of others in the home, generally. These population-level findings demonstrate the protective role of social resources and bolster arguments for greater inclusion of close others in alcohol-related interventions.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Zabielaite, Meda	Xu, Peisheng	PDA-PEG/Copper Selective Killing of Ovarian Cancer Cells View Full Text Abstract Text Ovarian cancer remains a leading cause of gynecologic cancer mortality due to late-stage diagnosis and limited therapeutic selectivity. Epithelial ovarian cancers account for approximately 95% of all malignant ovarian tumors, indicating the need for highly targeted therapeutic methods with improved selectivity and systemic toxicity. This study evaluated the cytotoxic selectivity of poly[(2-(pyridin-2-yldisulfanyl) ethyl acetate)-co-[poly (ethylene glycol))]] (PDA-PEG) nanoparticles in combination with copper ions (PDA-PEG/Cu) on the epithelial-like SKOV3 ovarian cancer cell line. PDA-PEG polymer comprises hydrophobic PDA segments and hydrophilic PEG segments, allowing the formation of a polymer nanocomplex with copper ions in aqueous solution. Polymer nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized by dynamic light scattering. Cytotoxic effects of polymer and Polymer/Cu were assessed using MTT assays. Comparative analyses were conducted to determine whether copper supplement can enhance selective cytotoxicity relative to polymer alone. Results demonstrated that Polymer/Cu significantly increased the cytotoxicity of SKOV3 cells compared to the standalone polymer, without affecting normal cells. This indicates enhanced anticancer activity upon complex formation. These findings suggest that copper-mediated activation of the polymer may represent a promising strategy for the selective killing of ovarian cancer cells.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Garcia, Sofia Portadin, Stella	Goodrum, Nada Butler, Lauren	Associations between Parental Adverse Child Experiences and Positive and Negative Parenting Practices View Full Text Abstract Text Parental adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), defined as harmful or stressful events before age eighteen, are associated with poorer family outcomes. Parents with ACEs are more likely to report negative parenting practices, which may contribute to intergenerational transmission of adversity. Less is known about the relation between the frequency of specific ACEs and both positive and negative parenting practices. Therefore, this study sought to examine correlations between the frequency of specific ACEs and both positive and negative parenting practices. Data came from a pilot study assessing a parent-based preventive intervention for parents with children 3 to 9 years old (Mage=6.01, SD=1.90), experiencing multiple stressors. Participants included 86 parents (Mage=36.09, SD =7.30) who completed the ACE-International Questionnaire and Multidimensional Assessment of Parenting Scale with a trained interviewer. Pearson correlations examined associations between frequency of specific ACEs type and parenting practices. Contrary to expectations, findings revealed that parents who experienced more sexual abuse reported higher levels of overall positive parenting (r=.316, p=.003), including higher proactive parenting (r=.269, p=.012), positive reinforcement (r=.245, p=.023), and supportiveness (r=.229, p=.034), but not warmth (r=.187, p=.085). Additionally, parents who experienced parental separation or death of a parent were less likely to report physical control, a negative parenting practice (r=-.234, p=.03). There were no significant associations between other types of parent ACEs and parenting practices. These findings suggest that parents who experienced sexual abuse may be engaging in more proactive parenting to protect their children from harm they themselves experienced. Parents from split family households may be practicing less physical control as forms of punishment. Limitations include a small, predominantly maternal sample, potentially restricting applicability to fathers’ experiences and generalizability. Future studies could explore the impacts of ACEs on children as they age within a longitudinal study and how it may affect their parenting styles, including father experiences.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
McGee, Brynne	Bradshaw, Jessica	Affect of Responsive Toys on Attention in 12-month-old Infants Diagnosed with Autism View Full Text Abstract Text Joint attention during toy play is a critical experience that supports language acquisition, object processing, and advanced pre-symbolic and symbolic play. Autism, a neurodivergent disorder, is characterized by differences in attention and social communication. Toys equipped with auditory, tactile, or visual modalities are more likely to maintain the attention of infants during play with parents. One study found that for autistic children, toys with at least one type of stimulation tend to elicit greater attention to the object. Additionally, the study found that utilizing these toys during play therapy supported greater engagement to toys which was associated with increased social and cognitive skills. It remains unclear how different toy modalities support attention in infants later diagnosed with autism during the first year of life. For this study, data was collected at 12 months and attention duration and frequency was measured during a toy play interaction. Infants were seated in their caregiver’s lap and given several toys, both responsive and non-responsive for specified amounts of time. A responsive toy has visual, for example lights, and/or auditory modalities with it. A non-responsive toy has no auditory or visual stimulation. The attention to the toys was determined by the frequency of looks towards the toy and the proportion of time spent looking at the toy. We hypothesize that responsive toys will yield a larger proportion of looking, paying less attention to distractors, for 12-month-olds diagnosed with autism than the non-responsive toys. Given that increased attention to toys is beneficial to children with autism, this finding would support sensory-based toy interventions with infants at an elevated likelihood of autism. This would allow for targeted early interventions which could support the quality of life for the infant and the family.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Farnsworth, Reese	Reagan, Lawrence Grillo, Claudia Woodruff, Jennifer	3-D Reconstructions of Hippocampal Neurons in a Gulf War Illness Animal Model View Full Text Abstract Text Many cognitive impairments are connected to deficits in the hippocampus, which plays a critical role in learning and memory. Following the Gulf War, many veterans reported chronic symptoms, including cognitive impairments. One of the main cognitive impairments characteristic of Gulf War Illness is memory loss. These deficits were found to be linked to pyridostigmine bromide medications given to soldiers that were meant to act as a protective measure from gaseous warfare. While pyridostigmine bromide medications were meant to minimize the effects of toxins of biochemical warfare, it is clear that they are linked to neural dysregulation that has been documented in many Gulf War Veterans. This study was implicated in an animal model of Gulf War Illness where experimental rats were exposed to pyridostigmine bromide (PB) and repeated stress (RS). The goal of this current study was to examine how the effects of PB and RS in an experimental model of GWI impacted the morphologies of CA3 pyramidal neurons. This data aims to compare these structural changes in the form of dendritic complexity and arborization between control and experimental animals. Neuron summary analysis and Sholl analysis were performed with Neurolucida (MBF Bioscience). The CA3 neurons were chosen by criteria established in the Reagan Lab. My preliminary results show that the combination of RS and PB play a role in dendritic atrophy of apical CA3 neurons.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Leonard, Lilly	Flory, Kate Tucker, Aren	Grit as a Potential Moderator of the Association Between School Support and Internalizing Symptoms among College Students View Full Text Abstract Text College students are at heightened risk for internalizing symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and stress. Prior literature identifies school support as a robust protective factor, with higher levels of perceived school support associated with lower internalizing symptoms. School support is defined as a network of resources designed to foster a safe and supportive learning environment for students. This network of support encompasses multiple dimensions, including adult support, peer support, and school safety. Although school support has been linked to lower internalizing symptoms, its protective nature varies from person to person based on individual factors. Grit, defined as sustained passion for long-term goals, is one such individual factor that could impact the association between school support and internalizing symptoms. For instance, students high in grit may be better equipped to overcome emotional challenges even in the context of low perceived school support. No previous research has examined whether grit could moderate the relation between school support and internalizing symptoms, particularly among college students. This current study aims to address this gap by examining whether grit impacts the association between school support and depression and anxiety in college students. Participants were 2,066 undergraduate students (M age = 19.5; 71% female) across seven U.S. universities participating in the multisite Undergraduate Learning, Emotion, and Attention Research Network (U-LEARN) study. Of the sample, 353 participants identified as Hispanic, Latino, or of Spanish origin, and 1,713 identified as non-Hispanic. Regarding race, 66.4% identified as White, 24.8% as Asian, 8.2% as Black, 3.3% as Middle Eastern, 4.6% as Pacific Islander, 2.2% as Native American, and 0.8% identified with another racial background. Students were administered an online survey that included measures of grit, perceived school support, depression, and anxiety. Analyses will be run using multiple regression. Findings may support campus-based interventions designed to strengthen individual perseverance to complement institutional support to reduce internalizing symptoms among college students.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Perry, Emily	Decker, Scott	The Neurobiological Basis of Developmental Dyslexia: A Comprehensive Review of Auditory Temporal Processing Deficits View Full Text Abstract Text Developmental dyslexia is a complex neurobiological condition that significantly impacts educational outcomes for children that extend into adulthood. Although assumed to be neurobiologically based, the specific cause of dyslexia is still unknown. This review explores the neurobiological basis of dyslexia within the scope of contemporary brain research. More specifically, this review examines neuroscientific studies of dyslexia with a focus on auditory processing deficits. The exact relationship between auditory processing deficits and dyslexia remains a topic of debate. This review will evaluate studies to determine the degree of evidence as causal, correlational, or secondary symptom of dyslexia. Impaired neurological processing is present from pre-literate years, throughout school, and persists to adulthood. Contemporary research studies are important in using neurological measures, like EEG and MEG, which were unavailable in historic studies. More importantly, current research has focused on reduced neural synchrony impairs network communication, resulting in slowed temporal processing speeds. Impaired cortical tracking of speech and category learning difficulties support the suggestion of neural synchronization issues. By examining deficits in sensory gating, neural synchrony, and procedural learning using evidence from auditory temporal processing testing, research supports a neurobiological basis of dyslexia.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Mozeleski, Anne	Palomares, Melanie	Evaluating the Impact of Undergraduate TAs in Psychology View Full Text Abstract Text The Assistantship of Teaching in Psychology (AToP) is a service-learning class to explore the psychological science of teaching and learning, and to support students in large and challenging classes as undergraduate teaching assistants (UGTA). UGTAs hold tutoring and instructional sessions aligned to the lectures of their instructional mentor and their AToP seminar topics. Luckie et al. (2020) found that students who practice testing themselves with an UTA before an exam have enhanced performance on the exam in an Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology class. The current study evaluated the impact on test scores in psychology classes. We analyzed test score differences for students who did and did not attend SE exam review sessions across different level psychology courses. Our hypothesis is that there will be an increase in test score for students who attend the UGTA exam review session and there will be a greater difference for Introduction to Psychology students compared to higher level psychology students. The role of student motivation and engagement will be discussed.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Duong, Daniel	Jin, Rongying Xing, Jie Rajbanshi, Abhinna Graf, David Shelton, William	Unique angle dependence observed in Li0.9Mo6O17 View Full Text Abstract Text Li0.9Mo6O17 is positioned at the boundary between superconducting and Mott insulating states, providing a unique platform for studying strongly correlated electronic systems. It consists of zigzag chains of MoO6 octahedra along the crystallographic b-axis, with weak interchain coupling. Under applied magnetic fields, the b-axis magnetoresistance (MRb) shows strong field dependence with (1) the non-monotonic behavior within a field direction and (2) a sign change from positive for H || a to negative for H || b. Remarkably, the magnetic torque (τ) reverses sign at the same angle. These suggest that the magnetic field strongly modify the electronic structure of this non-magnetic system. The relationship between the crystal structure, magnetic field (amplitude and direction), and electronic structure will be further discussed.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Castellanos, Isabella	Tan, Wenbin	The Role of NR2F2 in Regulation of Glutathione Synthesis and Acquisition of Laser Treatment Resistance in Capillary Malformations View Full Text Abstract Text Capillary malformations (CMs), also known as port wine birthmarks (PWBs), are a type of congenital vascular malformation characterized by flat red lesions, nodule formation, progressive vessel dilation, endothelial cell (EC) proliferation, and poor response to pulse dye laser (PDL) therapy, with approximately 20% of patients exhibiting treatment resistance. Prior studies using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models demonstrate elevated glutathione (GSH) levels and upregulation of GSH-synthesis enzymes, suggesting that enhanced antioxidant capacity may contribute to laser-treatment resistance. However, the upstream regulatory mechanisms driving GSH upregulation remain unclear. This project investigates the novel role of nuclear receptor subfamily 2 group F member 2 (NR2F2), a master transcription factor involved in vascular development and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), in regulating GSH synthesis and promoting laser resistance in CM endothelial cells. We hypothesize that NR2F2 upregulation increases expression of key GSH-related enzymes such as glutathione S-transferase Pi 1 (GSTP1), γ-glutamyl transferase 7 (GGT7), and glutamate cysteine ligase modulatory subunit (GCLM), leading to enhanced scavenging of laser induced reactive oxidative species and acquisition of a photodynamic therapy (PDT) resistant phenotype. Using CM and normal iPSCs integrated with a Tet-On inducible NR2F2 system, endothelial cells will be differentiated and assessed for GSH-enzyme expression via Western blotting. PDT with indocyanine green (ICG) and near-infrared laser (NIR) exposure will evaluate treatment resistance through quantitative cell viability analysis. We anticipate that NR2F2 overexpression will elevate GSH-associated enzymes and confer a PDT-resistant phenotype, identifying a previously unexplored molecular pathway linking NR2F2 to antioxidant regulation in CMs. These findings may reveal a novel therapeutic target to overcome laser resistance and improve clinical outcomes for pediatric patients with capillary malformations. Keywords: Capillary malformations; NR2F2; glutathione synthesis; photodynamic therapy; laser-treatment resistance; endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Patton, Brady Wehmeir, Naomi	Meyer-Gutbrod, Erin Walsh, Ryan	Body condition of Pacific Coast Feeding Group gray whales from 2018 to 2019 in northwest Washington View Full Text Abstract Text Eastern North Pacific (ENP) gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) are a population of gray whales that have faced recent declines in both total population and calf production. From 2019-2023, the ENP experienced an Unusual Mortality Event (UME) due to increased mortality and proportion of whales in poor condition. Within the ENP is a unique feeding group of gray whales, the Pacific Coast Feeding Group (PCFG), who feed off the coast of northern California to northern British Columbia during the summer. In this study, photos of PCFG gray whales were provided by the Makah Tribe to evaluate the body condition of this group during the feeding seasons of 2018 and 2019 to address how the UME may have impacted the PCFG. Individual whales photographed were identified and body condition was analyzed using an established protocol based on visual evaluation of three anatomical regions: the post-crania, scapula, and lateral flank. From these evaluations, individuals were assigned monthly body condition scores of poor, fair, or good. Repeated sightings of individuals were used to evaluate changes in body condition within and across seasons. This study provides important baseline information on seasonal body condition patterns in PCFG gray whales prior to and at the peak of the 2019-2023 Unusual Mortality Event. Furthermore, it contributes to a long-standing evaluation of body condition for PCFG gray whales in this region that dates back to 1996.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Goodman, Jane Ouyang, Carol	Robinson, Luz Fernendez, Natalie	Studying Mental Health and Safety Perceptions: A CAMPUS (College Academics, Mental, and Physical health for Understanding Safety) Wide Study View Full Text Abstract Text College students are facing increasing rates of mental health challenges and concerns about campus safety, but most research on college samples is led by faculty. As undergraduate students at the University of South Carolina, we are using a Youth Participatory Action Research approach to understand the interaction between mental health, safety perceptions, and protective factors among college students. The study we are conducting is informed by student perspective and our research results will be used to advocate directly for positive change in our community. Participants in the CAMPUS (College Academics, Mental and Physical health for Understanding Safety) Study are undergraduate students at the University of South Carolina - Columbia campus through the SONA platform and advertised. Our research is guided by the following questions on mental health concerns and perceptions of safety, and belonging: Do perceptions of safety affect rates of mental health? Is there a relationship between students’ belonging and their mental health? This proposal presents findings from the CAMPUS Study, an ongoing campus-wide survey of mental health, social media, safety and belonging, physical health, reporting, and access. We used measures including Patient Health Questionaire-9, General Anxiety Disorder-7, Mental Help Seeking Intention Scale, Campus Climate Survey on Sexual Assault and Sexual Misconduct, Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale, and Flourishing Scale. We will report the prevalence of mental health issues, protective factors, safety concerns and contributing factors. Through this research, we will gain a deeper understanding of our current campus climate and how students are experiencing safety and their well being. This study is currently in active data collection and will be finalized on April 17. This research is important because understanding campus climate is essential in improving an environment for all students to feel supported, safe, and valued. Our findings will contribute to improving student support services on campus.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bailey, Brooklyn Hernandez, Nathalia	Robinson, Luz	Youth Perspectives Surveying Campus Safety and Mental Health View Full Text Abstract Text Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) is a method where youth act as lead researchers to identify, investigate, and address critical community or school issues through data-driven advocacy. The CAMPUS (College Academics, Mental and Physical Health for Understanding Safety) Study was developed by five undergraduate research assistants who worked closely with a faculty mentor as co-researchers to examine mental health, campus safety, and protective factors. Undergraduate researchers identified the research priorities, conducted a literature review, and selected validated scales and measures to assess anxiety, depression, overall mental health, substance use, protective factors, social media usage, and campus safety perceptions. Researchers also adapted survey items, developed consent materials, designed recruitment strategies, and managed the study through SONA. While faculty provided guidance, students led all major decisions, ensuring the study reflected peer perspectives and priorities. Using YPAR, we have implemented a mixed-methods survey. The survey was developed in Fall 2025, and data collection began in Spring 2026. Researchers will continue to adapt and refine future versions of the CAMPUS Study based on data collected and changes on campus. This methodological poster will detail our approach utilizing YPAR to develop, implement, and improve a data driven decision making process on student health and safety. We will share reflections from undergraduate researchers on the process. The results from these reflections will be thematically analyzed to demonstrate challenges and solutions to using YPAR when conducting studies with an undergraduate student sample. The team aims to advocate for changes to policies and practices that capture student experiences and perspectives. Additionally, YPAR methods in this study can be used to inform future studies at USC and other universities. Our collective goal is to help college students thrive in academic and social settings and enhance student well-being at University of South Carolina by engaging actively in research and advocacy.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Widis, Ellie	Frost, Dan	Stadium Shakes: What Makes a Crowd Rumble View Full Text Abstract Text The purpose of this research is to use seismic recordings to identify human-caused seismic signals during football games to conclude what behaviors caused those signals. Seismic waves are vibrations of the ground that are typically created by earthquakes. This research project focuses on the vibrations of Earth’s surface that were created by the crowd at the University of South Carolina’s home football games. To measure this, a seismometer was placed on the ground level of the William’s Brice Football Stadium. The seismometer was in a secluded area, away from much of the activity surrounding football games and was therefore protected from noise. The seismometer operated for the entire duration of the football season. During each game, we would observe a live stream of the seismogram and take note of when large amplitude signals would arrive, then correlate those signals to events that happened during the game, for example, a touchdown. Through spectral analysis, we found that signals from crowd movement during the song Sandstorm and crowd movement during a touchdown were significantly different. Not only did Sandstorm signals have higher amplitudes and frequencies, but we found that there are specific bands of frequencies that were not recorded. We concluded that the crowd was jumping in rhythm to the beat of Sandstorm to create specific frequency bands, while during touchdowns, each person in the crowd was jumping at random, creating signals at multiple frequencies.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Rajesh Kannan, Pranesh	Wilson, Kiesha	Investigating the Impact of Ethanol on Lung Pathology in High-Fat Diet-Induced MASLD View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasingly recognized as a systemic condition with effects extending beyond the liver. While ethanol is known to amplify inflammatory and fibrotic pathways, its impact on pulmonary pathology in the context of MASLD remains poorly understood. Methods: C57Bl/6J male and female mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) to induce MASLD. A subset received 20% ethanol in place of water for 2–4 hours daily during the final experimental phase to simulate binge alcohol consumption. Lung tissues were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining for histopathological scoring and qPCR for inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-6) and fibrotic (TGF-β1, COL1A1) gene expression. Circulating cytokines were quantified from blood samples, and analyses were stratified by sex. Results: Ethanol-treated MASLD mice exhibited significantly greater pulmonary immune cell infiltration and fibrotic remodeling compared to HFD-only controls. qPCR revealed upregulation of TNF-α, IL-6, TGF-β1, and COL1A1 in ethanol-exposed animals. Sex-stratified analysis indicated that female mice trended toward greater fibrotic marker expression, while males showed more pronounced TNF-α upregulation. Conclusions: Ethanol consumption worsens pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis in HFD-induced MASLD, implicating a liver–lung axis in metabolic disease progression. These findings highlight the systemic risks of alcohol use in individuals with metabolic dysfunction and support further investigation into targeted therapeutic strategies.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Wood, Julia	Fu, Xiaoxue Kong, Haiyan	The Impact of Anxiety on Executive Function in College Students View Full Text Abstract Text Executive functions (EFs) refer to the series of top-down cognitive processes that enable individuals to engage in the coordinated effort of behavior regulation and goal achievement, especially in novel or challenging situations. Working memory (WM) and inhibitory control (IC) are two distinct but interconnected components of EF. WM involves the ability to store and manipulate information over short periods of time. IC is the ability to inhibit an automatic or prepotent response to support goal-directed behavior. Mental health has significant impacts on EF, especially in college students that face increased vulnerability to internalizing disorders. Anxiety, characterized by persistent intrusive thoughts and concerns that result in perpetual worry and tension, is one internalizing disorder that can have bi-directional effects on EF. This study investigates the association between anxiety symptoms and EF performance, focusing on WM and IC, in college students. Participants aged 18- to 24-years (n=60) were recruited to complete a demographic questionnaire and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) to assess self-reported anxiety symptom severity, as well as computer tasks that measured components of EF. These participants completed the Color Change Detection (CCD) Task and the AX-Continuous Performance Task (AX-CPT) to provide measures of WM and IC, respectively. Performances were measured with accuracy and reaction time (RT) metrics to examine whether higher anxiety levels are associated with poorer performance on either or both EF tasks. Data analysis is in progress. It is hypothesized that there will be a moderate positive correlation between WM and IC measures, such that individuals who perform better on the CCD Task will also perform better on the AX-CPT Task. Additionally, higher levels of anxiety symptoms will be negatively associated with both WM and IC performance, with increased symptom severity predicting lower task accuracy and slower RTs.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Brennan, Owen	Yuan, Lang Sun, Can	Melt Pool Morphology and Surface Roughness Study of 316L Stainless Steel via Laser Powder Bed Fusion View Full Text Abstract Text Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) of 316L stainless steel enables fabrication of complex geometries; however, melt pool instability remains a principal driver of surface roughness and subsurface defect formation. This study presents a quantitative analysis of melt pool morphology and its relationship to surface topography and internal porosity in LPBF-fabricated specimens. High-resolution surface and cross-sectional imaging were used to characterize defect features and establish correlations among melt pool geometry, linear roughness metrics (Ra, Rq, Rz), areal parameters (Sa, Sq, Sz), and pore morphology. A custom computational pipeline was developed to automate melt pool boundary detection, morphological segmentation, contour mapping, and geometric descriptor extraction, ensuring reproducible and bias-minimized measurements. Statistical analysis demonstrates that melt pool aspect ratio and track overlap exert statistically significant influence on areal roughness parameters and surface height distributions. Processing regimes associated with unstable melt pool behavior correspond to elevated amplitude metrics and increased prevalence of lack-of-fusion porosity. Although linear roughness parameters alone are insufficient predictors of volumetric defect fraction, consistent topography–porosity trends were identified under controlled parameter sets. To extend defect characterization, a Python-based computer vision framework was implemented to localize and classify surface and subsurface defects through integrated bounding box detection, spatial clustering, and confidence-based filtering. This combined morphological and vision-driven methodology provides a scalable, data-consistent framework for automated quality assessment and process-informed optimization in metal additive manufacturing.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Pitre, Michael	McQuail, Joseph Horovitz, David Sikora, Anna Tolaka, Iangel Wohlfeld, Christian Fadel, Jim	Dysregulation of D- and L-Serine Metabolism During Cognitive Aging View Full Text Abstract Text Aging is associated with impaired NMDA receptor signaling and cognitive decline. D-serine functions as a co-agonist at the NMDA receptor and is critical for hippocampal-dependent spatial learning. Prior transcriptomic analyses from our laboratory identified age-related changes in genes regulating D-serine synthesis (serine racemase; SRR) and the upstream L-serine biosynthetic pathway, including phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PHGDH) and phosphoserine aminotransferase (PSAT1). We therefore hypothesized that aging would alter protein expression of these enzymes and that enzyme levels would predict spatial learning performance. Young (4–8 months; n = 16) and aged (22–26 months; n = 33) Fischer 344 rats were tested in the Morris Water Maze, and a spatial learning index (SLI) was calculated from probe trials. SRR, PHGDH, and PSAT1 protein expression were quantified by Western blot in hippocampus and frontal cortex. Aged rats exhibited significantly higher SLI scores than young rats (p = .002), indicating impaired spatial learning. Hippocampal SRR expression was reduced with age. In regression models predicting SLI while controlling for age and sex, SRR did not independently predict performance; however, inclusion of an SRR × age group interaction improved model fit (R² = .287, p = .004), and the interaction term approached significance (p = .065), suggesting age-dependent differences in the association between SRR expression and spatial learning. In the frontal cortex, PHGDH and PSAT1 were significantly upregulated with age, although neither predicted SLI. These findings demonstrate coordinated, region-specific alterations in D- and L-serine metabolic enzymes during aging. While protein expression did not uniformly predict behavioral performance, such age-related shifts and preliminary evidence of age-dependent enzyme–behavior coupling support further investigation of serine metabolism as a contributor to cognitive aging. Ongoing work using the same aging and behavioral framework will quantify D-serine, L-serine, and glutamate levels to determine whether metabolite availability more directly relates to spatial learning.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Becnel, Sanja Fann, Austin	Pazda, Adam	Attachment Anxiety Predicts Zero-Sum Thinking View Full Text Abstract Text Attachment begins during infancy with the bonds we form with our parents. Depending on this bond, we develop different coping strategies for our social relationships, resulting in an attachment style. Insecure attachment styles, namely anxious and avoidant, are linked to different ways of thinking in romantic relationships. Zero-sum Bias describes the subconscious thought that in order for one person to gain something, another has to lose. We believe that, since anxiously attached people fear abandonment, they may be more susceptible to this line of thinking. To test this, we surveyed 290 people through prolific answering an anonymous survey, each being compensated $1 for their time. They were asked questions to measure their attachment styles and zero-sum thinking in relationships. We also measured their scores of psychological needs, big five, optimism, life satisfaction, and current affect. We used a linear multiple regression analysis to test our hypotheses. Attachment anxiety and avoidance served as mean-centered predictor variables. Zero-sum thinking served as the outcome measure. The overall model was significant, F(2, 287) = 9.29, p < .001, R2 = .06. Attachment anxiety was positively related to zero-sum thinking (b = .15, p = .02). Attachment avoidance was unrelated to zero-sum thinking. This provides initial support for our hypothesis. A second regression analysis was conducted to determine possible relevant covariates, including the following variables as predictors: Life satisfaction, optimism, autonomy, competence, relatedness, positive affect, negative affect, and the Big Five personality traits. Even with all variables in the model, attachment anxiety was still significantly positively related to zero-sum thinking (b = .13, p = .016). This indicates that attachment anxiety is a predictor of zero-sum thinking independent from any overlap this trait may have with other psychologically relevant constructs.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Daino, Madelyn	Warren, Karen Dawson, Robin	Small Patients, Big Effects: NICU’s Impact on Healthy Siblings View Full Text Abstract Text This study uses a multi methods approach to explore the experiences of young adults who had a sibling in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), to examine potential psychological distress, connections to parentification, and to identify other shared lived experiences amongst this population. Current NICU research often overlooks the experiences of the siblings of NICU patients, despite the possible effects of this experience. Early exposure to a traumatic event, coupled with limited parental support and the assumption of adult roles during one’s formative years, may contribute to lasting psychological and emotional impacts. This study is grounded in Dr. Minuchin’s family systems theory, which links the behavior of one family member to the dynamics of the entire family. An explanatory sequential mixed methods design was used, combining surveys and interviews to explore the experiences of young adults who had a sibling in the NICU. Three surveys were utilized: the Parentification Scale, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory. Survey results informed the development of an interview guide, which was used for a focus group of five NICU siblings and one individual interview. Quantitative analysis shows that those with siblings in the NICU scored higher on the Parentification Scale and Beck Anxiety Inventory compared to those with healthy or no siblings. They also reported elevated scores on the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory. Interview themes included shifts in family roles, heightened anxiety, limited access to information, altered perceptions of the healthcare setting, and increased appreciation/personal growth. Data integration showed possible relationships between access to information during the hospitalization and anxiety and showed potential role of visitation and healthcare professionals in shaping sibling experiences. Further research is needed to deepen the understanding of this experience and to develop strategies to mitigate the negative outcomes for this population.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Martillotti, Ashley	Dudycha, Jeffery Bruner, Matthew Anderson, Adrian	Effect of Light Spectrum on Resource Allocation and Reproductive Fitness in Daphnia pulex. View Full Text Abstract Text Environmental light conditions play a significant role in organisms' physical development and reproductive patterns, especially in species where visual cues shape their behavior. This is known mostly from experiments that manipulate light intensity, but there is limited research done with respect to light spectrum. Daphnia have a single compound eye and use opsins, which are light sensitive proteins, to mediate light perception within their environment. Daphnia pulex contain a notably larger number of red opsins, compared to blue light opsins. This study was designed to determine whether this disparity influences fecundity and morphological composition in Daphnia, when they are exposed to different light wavelengths. Three light environments were designed to examine the potential response: a blue light, red light, and a broad light environment that served as a control. The project was focused on determining if light wavelength, and corresponding opsins in Daphnia, would impact resource allocation and reproductive fitness. Two clones were used in the experiment, KAP-100 and SKC-1, to test the interaction of light environments with genotype. Reproductive fitness was measured via a daily data collection of offspring produced per organism, from maturity through third clutch. Individuals were also photographed at maturity, and again at third clutch to measure eye size and body size. These two measurements would reveal if the energy investment in sensory structures differed between light environments and age. Factorial Analyses of Variance were conducted to test for the effects of light environment, genotype, and their interaction on fitness and morphology. These tests were done with respect to maturity and 3rd clutch to account for changes in age. Results indicated that light environment had a mostly weak, but detectable effect influencing reproductive fitness at first clutch and not third clutch. Light spectrum also influenced eye size, but in a genotype dependent manner.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Sutherland, Isabelle	Hudac, Caitlin McFadden, Jackson Mace, Olivia Benjamin, Sophie C. Nelson, Cailee	The Association Between Repetitive Behaviors and Social Responsiveness in Autistic Individuals View Full Text Abstract Text Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by restricted and repetitive behaviors and difficulties in social communication. Repetitive behaviors, sometimes observed as motor behaviors commonly known as stimming, may be used by autistic individuals as a means of self-regulation in response to emotional or sensory stimuli (Caldwell-Harris, 2021). Social challenges, including difficulties interpreting social cues, maintaining reciprocal conversations, and forming relationships are among the most prominent features of ASD and can significantly impact daily functioning (Hodis et al., 2025). Because repetitive behaviors and social impairments are core features of ASD, they co-occur, and a better understanding of how these two symptom domains are related could help develop more effective interventions that recognize repetitive behaviors as functional coping mechanisms rather than behaviors that should be suppressed, while also increasing awareness of stimming and reducing the social stigma and ostracization experienced by autistic individuals. The objective of this study was to examine the association between repetitive behaviors and social responsiveness in autistic adolescents. It was hypothesized that higher levels of repetitive behaviors would be associated with greater impairment in social responsiveness. Repetitive behaviors were measured using the parent-reported Repetitive Behavior Scale (RBS), and social responsiveness was assessed using the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) T-scores, with higher scores indicating more social problems (Constantino, 2013). Data were collected from 14 autistic participants (9 males, 5 females) aged 8–17 years. A linear regression analysis was conducted to investigate the relationship between repetitive behaviors and social responsiveness. Results showed a significant positive relationship between the two variables such that higher RBS scores (i.e., more repetitive behavior problems) were associated with higher SRS T-scores (i.e., greater social impairment) (R² =.58, p = .001). These findings suggest that higher levels of repetitive behaviors are associated with increased social difficulties in autistic youth.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Chen, Cheyenne	Dallas, Tad	Mapping the Invisible: Global Georeferencing of Helminth Parasites View Full Text Abstract Text Helminth parasites are a diverse group of organisms with significant global health, agricultural, and economic impact. These parasites infect billions of people, as well as wildlife and livestock worldwide. Helminths influence the host population dynamics and species interactions, and the zoonotic potential of helminth transmission has clear public health implications. It is necessary to know where helminth parasites are and what host species they interact with to truly estimate parasite burden and zoonotic potential. Currently, the best dataset for this is the London Natural History Museum's host-helminth database. However, the database is georeferenced only to geopolitical boundary and has not been updated since 2005. With support from the National Science Foundation, we have begun to georeference host-parasite interactions records to enhance the spatial accuracy and conduct a large scale analysis. We locate original source materials such as-books, conferences proceedings and journal articles. This is done so through academic databases and interlibrary loan services. After receiving the materials we translate records and extract longitude and latitude coordinates as well as any additional information such as parasite richness. As we georeference this database from the London Natural History Museum, we strengthen our understanding of spatial distributions, parasite specificity, and potential spillover patterns on a global scale. This will help us to better predict infectious disease dynamics under different environmental changes such as global warming.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Keats, Sam	Cho, Bridget	The Assication Between Childhood Emotional Maltreatment, Idenity Disturbance and Sexual Functioning in Emgering Adults View Full Text Abstract Text Healthy early parent-child relationships created health internal working models that reinforce positive self-worth. However, childhood emotional maltreatment (CEM) disrupts these models and can often lead to identity disturbance, such as identity diffuse or instability. People with disturbances of their identity may be reliant on validation from others, such as romantic partners. Prior studies have found that individuals with a history of CEM tend to have higher engagement in risky sexual behavior (RSB). This includes unprotected sex, young onset of sexual activities, having many sexual partners, and having sex while under the influence. A more updated term is sexual assertiveness (SA). This is a concept related to but distinct from RSB, and it is the ability to clearly communicate sexual needs to a partner. It is hypothesized that, among emerging adults, CEM has an indirect effect on RSB through identity disturbance and SA, such that CEM is positively associated with identity disturbance, identity disturbance is negatively associated with SA, and SA is negatively associated with RSB. This study builds on prior research conducted with emerging adults recruited through Prolific who experienced at least one traumatic event. 100 of the participants from the original study were invited to complete the two additional measures of the Sexual Risks Survey and Hulbert Index of Sexual Assertiveness. Data was analyzed using a serial mediation analysis (Model 6; PROCESS). Preliminary results (n = 36) showed that CEM predicted higher levels of identity disturbance (b = 1.51, p = .020). Identity disturbance predicted lower sexual assertiveness (b = -0.1, p = .038). However, SA had no real effect on RSB (p = .091). While the hypothesized indirect effects were not supported, the results suggest that higher levels of CEM are associated with greater identity disturbance, which is then related to lower SA in emerging adults.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Rucker, Caroline	Peryshkov, Dmitry Tellier, Gabby	Synthesis of Tetrazine Phosphines for Metal-Free Catalysis View Full Text Abstract Text Many important pharmaceuticals and industrial products are synthesized using precious metal catalysts, which accelerate chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. Although these catalysts are efficient, they are rare, expensive, and often toxic. Developing sustainable, metal-free alternatives is therefore a significant goal in modern chemistry. Work in the Peryshkov Group at the University of South Carolina explores tetrazine phosphines as a potential platform for metal-free catalysis. Phosphorus can exhibit metal-like reactivity by cycling through its available oxidation states enabling electron transfer and potential bond activation. Additionally, tetrazine, the nitrogen containing analogue of benzene, is efficient at mediating reversible electrons and proton transfer. By integrating these two components, this system aims to cooperatively drive key chemical transformations without relying on precious metals. This project focuses on developing the foundational starting materials necessary to access tetrazine phosphines, supporting ongoing efforts toward sustainable catalytic design.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Burns, James	Hancock, Nathan	Genetic Analysis of the “Dwarf” Soybean Mutant View Full Text Abstract Text Glycine max, commonly known as soybean, is an important oil and protein crop, but require low amounts of nitrogen fertilizer because of their ability to form rhizobium containing nodules that fix atmospheric nitrogen. We identified a mutant that exhibits dwarfism and significantly reduced yields. Whole genome sequencing of this mutant indicates that it had many variants including disruption of many genes. The overall goal is to use modern genetic techniques to identify the specific mutation responsible for this severe dwarf phenotype. An F2 population segregating for the dwarf phenotype was grown and found to have a 3:1 ratio of wild type to dwarf plants. DNA was isolated from the F2 population, and amplicons of variants that disrupt gene function were sent to be sequenced to determine if dwarf plants all shared the mutation. Unfortunately, none of the variants tested correlated with the dwarf phenotype. These results indicate that the dwarf phenotype is controlled by a single recessive mutation. However, it was not linked to any variants associated with loss of gene function that we tested. Thus, we plan to perform RNA sequencing to detect any changes in gene expression that may be responsible for the dwarf phenotype.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hughey, Aryana	Banerjee, Meeta	Exploring the Impact of Trauma and Racial Discrimination Among University Students View Full Text Abstract Text As access to higher education expands among marginalized groups, it is critical to examine the psychological factors that influence academic success (Jones et al., 2023). Mental health plays a significant role in shaping academic outcomes and student behavior, and frequent experiences of racism and discrimination have been linked to depression, stress, anxiety, and self-harming behaviors (Valentine et al., 2025). However, the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from racial discrimination and students’ attitudes toward education remains underexplored. Experiences of racial trauma may shape how minoritized students perceive themselves within academic environments, interact with educators, and engage in their educational pursuits (Kirkinis et al., 2021). The present study examines how memories of racial discrimination during high school are associated with self-reported post-traumatic stress symptoms. We hypothesize that specific types of racial discrimination will be associated with greater trauma-related symptoms. Additionally, this study investigates the extent to which trauma influences academic self-concept and self-esteem among college students. Data were drawn from a larger study known as the Neighborhood Safety and Well-Being Study conducted in Southern California. The sample includes 892 college students identifying as African American (8%), Latinx (86%), or Multiracial (6%). From the sample, 73% of participants identify as female, and 51% reported being first-year students. Participants reported post-traumatic stress symptoms, past and current racial discrimination, academic self-concept, and academic performance. Preliminary findings indicate that racial discrimination experiences, past and present, are associated with reports of trauma. Additionally, reports of greater racial discrimination during high school were linked to poorer academic self concept, but greater racial discrimination was positively related to academic engagement. Findings from this study aim to inform trauma-informed and equitable educational practices that better support students from diverse backgrounds.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
de Luca, Summer	Krizek, Beth	Transcription Factors: Key Regulators of Floral Organogenesis in Arabidopsis thaliana View Full Text Abstract Text GROWTH REGULATING FACTORS (GRF) in plants are transcription factors that promote organ growth. Understanding these growth pathways would be crucial in agricultural settings and could allow for intentional manipulation of plants, such as increasing crop yield or size. In the plant Arabadopsis thaliana, a family of nine GRFs exhibit genetic redundancy with overlapping functions in the regulation of leaf size. GRF6 is most closely related to GRF5 but no mutant phenotype has been characterized. We have obtained newly generated CRISPR alleles of grf1,2,3,5,6 and have crossed grf6 with each of these mutants. Double mutants were identified by PCR amplification, restriction enzyme digestion, and gel electrophoresis. Preliminary analyses suggest the grf6 double mutants show no strong defects in organ size. Leaf and petal size measurements of the double mutants will be presented. It may be necessary to make higher order mutants, such as triples or quadruples, in order to produce more severe phenotypes.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Badiger, Megha	Shustova, Natalia Thaggard, Grace	Stimuli-Responsive Phase Change Materials Enabled by Photochromic Molecular Switches View Full Text Abstract Text Modern global challenges associated with clean energy production and storage could be addressed by materials capable of harvesting, storing, and releasing thermal and visible light energy on demand. For instance, platforms capable of harvesting solar energy and storing it for subsequent utilization present an attractive direction to pursue as we shift away from a fossil fuel-based society. One class of materials that are promising candidates for thermal and light energy storage are phase change materials (PCMs), which store energy during solid-solid phase transitions induced by an external stimulus (e.g., light, heat, or pressure). This presentation introduces the innovative concept of using a light-responsive molecular switch to drive solid-solid phase transitions on demand, thereby allowing for energy to be stored or released as a function of light exposure. In particular, photochromic azobenzene derivatives are integrated within metal halide-based structures, and azobenzene photoisomerization is used as a tool to control the phase transitions exhibited by the bulk material for the first time. The photochromic performance of the designed material is analyzed by a combination of UV-vis and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, while the photochromic-molecule driven phase transitions are confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. As a result, the presented studies create a new pathway for photochromic materials to serve as light and solar energy storage platforms that can be accurately controlled through selection of an excitation wavelength.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
LABRADOR, KARL NICOLE	Morris, Sheena	Reflection on Self-Performance Using Video Recordings View Full Text Abstract Text This project evaluated the impact of integrating video recordings of self-performance for self-assessment and reflection, alongside traditional training methods, on clinical anxiety, confidence, procedural familiarity, and readiness for endotracheal intubation among first-year student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs) at the University of South Carolina (USC) before their first intubation in a clinical environment. A quasi-experimental study with a nonequivalent control group design was utilized. First-year SRNAs (n = 24) completed a pre-survey to establish baseline data. A subset (n = 9) participated in an intervention involving a video-recorded intubation simulation, followed by a video review for self-assessment and reflection. Post-surveys were completed by the remaining participants (n = 23). The results were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U-test. The intervention group demonstrated higher median scores across five of six survey items compared to the non-intervention group, with statistically significant differences in four items (p < 0.05). The most notable differences were observed in participants’ ability to identify areas for improvement, confidence, and perceived preparedness. These findings suggest that integrating reflective video review early into clinical training can enhance SRNA self-efficacy and competence. Future research should continue exploring the role of reflective practice in clinical skill development and stress management. Ultimately, this project may benefit nurse anesthetist education by fostering more competent providers and safer patient care.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Catapano, Allison Vallabhaneni, Neha	Roberts, Jane	Longitudinal Language Development Differences Between Children with FXpm and their NT Peers View Full Text Abstract Text Early vocal behaviors and caregiver-child interactions are well established predictors of later language development in neurotypical (NT) populations; however, less is known about how these early markers function in infants with the fragile X premutation (FXpm). FXpm results from a CGG repeat expansion in the FMR1 gene of the X chromosome and may have co-occurring social communication delays, autism spectrum disorder, and social anxiety (Tassanakijpanich et al., 2021). With deficiencies in language acquisition for this genetic group, it is important to assess early indicators of such delays for proper intervention. This study examines whether infant vocal behaviors and caregiver interactions predict language outcomes at 24 months in children with FXpm compared to NT peers. The experimental group included 19 participants with FXpm and the control group included 14 NT participants, both assessed at infancy (FXpm: Mage=11.74 months; NT: Mage=12.48 months) and around 24 months (FXpm: Mage=24.38 months; NT: Mage=24.21 months). Early vocal behaviors were measured during infancy using the Language ENvironment Analysis (LENA) system, a validated automated tool that captures standardized scores for conversational turns (verbal exchanges between adult and child), child vocalizations (utterances from the participant), and vocal productivity (quality of the child utterances based on consonant and vowel pairings) from recordings of interactions occurring in their natural daily environments (Gilkerson et al., 2017). The Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID-4) assessed language at 24 months, with expressive and receptive communication scores serving as primary outcome measures (Balasundaram & Avulakunta, 2022). Regression analyses will examine if infant LENA measures predicted 24-month language outcomes and the association differences between FXpm and NT groups. We hypothesize that FXpm children will show lower BSID-4 language scores at 24 months and weaker predictive associations between infant LENA measures and 24-month language outcomes than NT peers.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Smerczynski, Eve	Stone, Joshua	Four decades of change in the copepod community of North Inlet Estuary, SC View Full Text Abstract Text Copepods play an essential role in estuarine food webs, providing a major food source to many organisms that thrive there. Thus, any responses of the copepod community to long-term changes in the environment are likely to cascade throughout the pelagic food web. This project aims to answer two main questions: Has the copepod populations in North Inlet Estuary changed over the past 43 years, and if so, can these changes be linked to known climate related variables such as temperature and salinity? To answer these questions, biweekly samples from the North Inlet Estuary Zooplankton Time Series (1980-2024) are being used to quantify copepod community composition and investigate any possible shifts in their populations over the past four decades. Sample analysis is ongoing, but preliminary results have indicated shifts in copepod phenology following warmer winter temperatures. Full results will be analyzed to observe any trends in species abundance and diversity and further assess their potential correlation with long term climate patterns. This project will contribute to a better understanding of climate driven changes in estuarine zooplankton communities.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Goedken, Mia	Walters, Wendell	Evaluating Concentration Methods for Isotope Analysis of Low Nitrate Concentrations View Full Text Abstract Text The stable isotopes of nitrogen and oxygen (δN, δO, and ΔO) in nitrate (NO3-) have proven to be powerful tools for investigating the sources and atmospheric transformation processes of this critical biogeochemical compound. Although significant advancements have been made in techniques to quantify the isotopic composition of NO3-, accurately measuring isotopes at low nitrate concentrations (i.e., below 1 μM- NO3-) remains challenging. These limitations hinder our ability to obtain isotopic data from certain environmental samples, such as ice cores and pore waters, where nitrate levels are often very low. Here, we evaluated several nitrate-concentration methodologies that included boiling, freeze-drying, fraction collection, and solid-phase extraction, using simulated ice core meltwater with low nitrate concentrations under varying pH and ionic strength conditions. Here, we evaluated these various methodologies using the following criteria: (1) evaluating the accuracy of the nitrate concentration using percent recovery, (2) comparing the isotopic composition to that of a known nitrate standard, and (3) analyzing the time and efficiency of the proposed methods. Overall, nitrate solid-phase extraction was found to be the most suitable option to maximize percent recovery (103% ± 7.8%; n=20). Further, the analysis of the ????¹⁵N and ????¹⁸O isotopes for the NO solid-phase extraction method showed the lowest standard deviations for ????¹⁵N and ????¹⁸O of 0.34 ‰ and 0.59 ‰ (n = 20), respectively. However, detectable isotopic fractionation was associated with the solid-phase extraction technique, necessitating that calibration standards be processed alongside samples using the same extraction procedure. Overall, we recommend the use of solid-phase extraction using AG1-X8 resin with 10 mL of 1 M sodium chloride (NaCl) as the best approach for concentration of NO3- for accurate isotopic analysis.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Grantham, Natalie	Wyatt, Michael McInnes, Campbell	Probing conformational dynamics of PLK1 with ai-driven modeling and novel small molecule probes View Full Text Abstract Text Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) is a critical regulator of cell cycle progression, making it a promising target for cancer therapeutics. Its kinase domain (KD) drives phosphorylation events essential for mitosis, while its polo-box domain (PBD) mediates substrate binding and localization. Although ATP-competitive inhibitors targeting the KD have shown efficacy, they often lack selectivity, leading to off-target effects. In contrast, PBD inhibitors, such as abbapolins, selectively disrupt PLK1-substrate interactions and may offer improved specificity. To investigate the structural basis of PLK1 inhibition via PBD or KD binding, we are using an integrative approach combining computational modeling and biophysical assays. AlphaFold-based modeling and molecular docking in Discovery Studio Visualizer are used to examine PLK1 conformational dynamics and evaluate how PBD- and KD-binding ligands engage the protein. Functional characterization of these inhibitors using fluorescence polarization assays quantified the interactions of PBD- and KD- binding probes with PLK1. The results suggest different modes of KD or PBD-binding induce different conformations of PLK1. To further characterize ligand interactions, differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) is being used to assess the thermal stability and conformational effects of PLK1-ligand complexes. Furthermore, hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) validated ligand engagement and further mapped binding sites and the resulting conformational changes. Collectively, these studies reveal how ligand binding and selectivity influence conformational flexibility and interdomain communication of PLK1, which will guide the rational design of next-generation inhibitors with improved specificity and efficacy.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Dickson, Muireall	Barnes, Jessica	London Air Pollution Social Media Analysis View Full Text Abstract Text London’s air quality has been a probing issue for years with various solutions, strategies, and opinions being presented. Part of creating significance around the issue of air pollution is strong understanding and communication. Social media plays a large role in modern day communication; it is a way to communicate facts, link to articles, present arguments, and provide abbreviated news. In this project, I explore how users on social media communicate air pollution in London. Over a span of 14 weeks, I analyzed Instagram coverage using a series of keyword searches, exploring posts, images, trends, hashtags, and accounts on this issue. I examined the kinds of imagery and text used to communicate topics of air pollution in London, where creators on Instagram place blame for air pollution, what kind of solutions they pose, and how they present them. I focused, in particular, on two issues: the debate over the practice of wood burning in London and the UK as well as controversial conversations about London’s ultra low emissions zone. This research provides important insights into how social media is utilized to disseminate information and shape perspectives on critical public health and environmental issues.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Navarro, Elianna	Fitton, Lisa Martinez, Karina Briseño, Kimberly Jackson, Savannah	Investigating Alignment between Parent Perceptions and Direct Assessments of Oral Language among Spanish-English Bilingual Children View Full Text Abstract Text Based on previous research, it has been observed that parent reports can be an efficient way to obtain insights into bilingual children’s language development. However, bilingual children are frequently both over- and under-identified as having Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), a neurodevelopmental communication disorder that affects individuals’ ability to comprehend and produce language, which can lead to long-term social impacts when unaddressed. To better understand how parent observations might contribute to the accurate identification of DLD, our research team seeks to investigate how Spanish-speaking parents' perceptions of their bilingual children's language abilities align with standardized assessment scores produced. To explore this, we examined parent responses from the Inventory to Assess Language Knowledge (ITALK), a standardized parent-report questionnaire that probes perceptions of children's abilities in both languages. Using data collected from the Bilingual Reading Difficulty Identification (BiRDI) Project, we will examine parent responses from the ITALK, which includes questions about children’s English and Spanish vocabulary, grammar, sentence production, comprehension, and phonology, completed via phone or email, and compare them to children’s performance on direct assessments, including measures of bilingual vocabulary and morphosyntax. Using descriptive and regression analyses, we will evaluate how parents’ overall and individual item responses align with and diverge from children’s measured language skills in kindergarten (n = 215) across English-only and bilingual instructional contexts. The results of our findings will inform how the ITALK may contribute to the early identification of DLD among Spanish-English bilingual learners. Ultimately, these findings aim to guide researchers, speech-language pathologists, and educators in improving assessment practices and more accurately identifying children with or at risk for language difficulties.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Markwell, Emma	Chen, Mengqian Roninson, Igor Broude, Eugenia Mack, Zachary	Investigating CDK8/19 in Drug Resistance and Cancer Stem Cell-Mediated Tumorigenesis in HER2+ Breast Cancer View Full Text Abstract Text Many patients with HER2-positive breast cancer (HER2+BC) develop resistance to Paclitaxel (Taxol). This resistance is often linked to the emergence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), a subpopulation capable of self-renewal and therapeutic evasion. Based on preliminary studies suggesting that CDK8/19 activity regulates pluripotency and tumor adaptation, we hypothesized that Taxol-resistant cells would exhibit increased tumorigenicity in vivo and upregulated CSC markers in vitro. To test this, we conducted an orthotopic limiting dilution assay in immunocompromised mice. Twenty-one mice were injected in the mammary fat pad with Taxol-resistant HER2+BC cells at four concentrations: 5 million (5M), 1M, 10K, and 1K cells. We monitored tumor initiation over 15 weeks and compared the results to a previous 65-mouse study of the parental cell line. Surprisingly, no significant differences were found in tumor initiation rates between the groups. In both lines, 5M groups developed tumors by Day 41, approximately 50% of 10K groups formed tumors, and the 1K groups remained tumor-free. These findings suggest that Taxol resistance in this model is not driven by an increased frequency of tumor-initiating CSCs. Instead, Western blot analysis revealed a significant upregulation of MDR1 (Multi-Drug Resistance 1) in the resistant line. While GSEA results for broad pluripotency markers were inconsistent, we have confirmed that the selective CDK8/19 inhibitor SNX631-6 effectively reduces MDR1 expression and reverses this drug-resistant phenotype in adapted cells. This demonstrates that CDK8/19 mediates Taxol resistance through the specific regulation of efflux transporters rather than a global transition to a stem-like state. These results highlight CDK8/19 inhibition as a targeted strategy to suppress MDR1 and restore treatment sensitivity in HER2+BC.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Barrett, Kanyisile Hanner, Chance	Martin, Pamela Weeks, Devin White, Kai Lundy, Aylanah Brown, Kalyn Tomlin, Naomi	From Data Screening to Trust: Strengthening Research Integrity in Black Communities View Full Text Abstract Text Botting refers to the use of automated scripts or coordinated fraudulent actors to complete online surveys while posing as legitimate participants. In online research, botting undermines data validity, inflates sample sizes, distorts statistical estimates, and threatens the credibility of findings. When research centers African American communities, fraudulent responses become particularly harmful, as they distort representation, misinform policy, and erode trust between researchers and historically marginalized populations. This challenge emerged directly in the NC/SC Black Church Study, Understanding the Influence of Black Faith Communities, sponsored by the Department of Psychology and African American Studies, which investigates how Black faith institutions influence health and educational outcomes among Black adults and adolescents. During data collection, 6,020 survey responses were received; however, systematic screening revealed that a substantial portion were fraudulent. To conduct a preliminary review of data integrity, the research team randomly selected 50 cases from North Carolina and 50 from South Carolina for structured review. A multi-step verification protocol was implemented to identify patterns consistent with automated or coordinated submissions. Duration thresholds were applied using Qualtrics metadata to flag entries under 2,640 seconds. reCAPTCHA v3 scores below 0.5 were classified as high risk for automation. IP addresses were examined for duplication, rapid timestamp clustering, anonymizing services, and fraud risk using bulk lookup tools and Scamalytics. Additional safeguards included restricting eligible denominations, excluding non-recruitment locations, cross-checking church affiliations, reviewing attention check responses, and verifying residency through public records. Descriptive statistics will assess the proportion and patterns of fraudulent submissions across screening indicators. These findings will inform best practices for fraud detection thresholds and strengthen methodological rigor in future community-based online research. Rigorous bot detection is both a methodological necessity and an ethical imperative essential for preserving validity and sustaining community trust.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Wright, Kira	Brown, Michelle	The Exacerbating Role of Revictimization in the Association Between Childhood Maltreatment and Rumination in Adolescence View Full Text Abstract Text Adolescents with maltreatment histories report increased internalizing symptoms, especially rumination (Kim & Cicchetti, 2010; Michl et al., 2013), which has multiple implications for long term outcomes in this high-risk population (Mclaughlin & Nolen-Hoeksema, 2011). Furthermore, adolescents exposed to childhood maltreatment are at elevated risk for experiencing repeated victimization, or revictimization (Widom et al., 2008), and revictimization has been found to further heighten risk for internalizing symptoms (Brown et al., 2023). The present study examined the moderating role of revictimization in the association between maltreatment exposure and rumination in adolescents. Adolescents (N = 86) participated in a longitudinal study with two timepoints (T1 and T2 6-month follow-up). At T1, participants reported on their maltreatment histories (UCLA Trauma History Screen; Doric et al., 2019), then at T2 completed a measure of revictimization over the past 6 months since the initial study visit (Juvenile Victimization Questionnaire; Finkelhor et al., 2011) and a measure of rumination as an emotion regulation strategy (Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire; Garnefski et al., 2001). Regression analysis revealed that maltreatment (β= .32, p = .026) and revictimization (β= .39, p = .021) were both positively associated with rumination. Importantly, revictimization moderated the association between maltreatment and rumination (β= .39, p = .030) such that the association was stronger at higher levels of revictimization. The model accounted for approximately 14% of the variance in rumination. These findings suggest that revictimization exacerbates the impact of early maltreatment on maladaptive emotion regulation, amplifying adolescents’ susceptibility to rumination. Interventions aimed at preventing revictimization and targeting rumination may be particularly critical for improving long-term mental health outcomes among maltreated adolescents.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Cranford, Avery Tiago, Maddie	Fitton, Lisa	Autism and Bilingual Language Development View Full Text Abstract Text Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences in social communication and language development. While there is a substantial body of literature focusing on language development among monolingual children with ASD, limited clinical guidance is available for multilingual children with ASD, particularly regarding the assessment of pragmatic language skills. Multilingual populations experience ASD in distinct ways shaped by their exposure to, acquisition of, and use of multiple languages. Using a multiple case study approach, this poster delves into these differences by providing an in-depth analysis of the language skills of multilingual children with ASD as observed across several measures, including language sampling. A sample of 5 bilingual Spanish-English kindergarten students diagnosed with/suspected of having ASD were identified from a larger sample of approximately 200 bilingual students across South Carolina and Texas. These children were identified using Individualized Education Plan (IEP) information from their schools. Findings indicated that these students demonstrated stronger word-level decoding skills relative to overall language abilities, particularly when provided with structured instructional support. This pattern, however, was not demonstrated in the typically developing population. Expressive naming also emerged as a relative strength. In contrast, morphosyntactic performance consistently fell below normal limits across languages, suggesting challenges in functional language use. Assessments of narrative retelling abilities further indicate impairments in functional language across languages. Clinical implications and future directions for this complex population will be discussed.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Wade, Chaznine	Reisman, David	Investigating the Protein Coding Capability of a p53 Long View Full Text Abstract Text Human myeloid leukemia is characterized by uncontrolled proliferation and a critical failure of malignant cells to undergo normal differentiation. This impaired differentiation is associated with the overexpression of a specific long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) that contributes to excessive growth and spread of these cancer cells. Although this sequence is labeled as non-coding, a close analysis of this lncRNA identified a prospective small open reading frame with the potential to encode a previously unknown protein. This study aims to determine whether the identified small open reading frame is translated into a functional protein. The region of the gene containing the potential open reading frame will be PCR amplified and cloned into the pBiT3.1-N expression vector, which is designed to attach an 11-amino acid fluorescent protein tag to the candidate protein. Following introduction into human cells, protein expression will be assessed using antibody-based detection approaches, including Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence microscopy. Demonstrating translation of this putative microprotein would challenge the current classification of this transcript as strictly noncoding and suggest an additional layer of regulatory complexity in myeloid leukemia. Ultimately, this work may expand our understanding of hidden coding potential within lncRNAs and identify novel molecular mechanisms contributing to impaired differentiation in leukemia.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Korunova, Elizaveta	Shtutman, Michael	Artificial Intelligence–Based Single-Particle Tracking: Detecting Diffusion Heterogeneity During Stress Granule Assembly in Cytoplasm View Full Text Abstract Text The cytoplasm is a highly crowded and heterogeneous environment, containing structures ranging from small metabolites to large macromolecular complexes and organelles. Single-Particle Tracking (SPT) provides a powerful approach to probe this environment using fluorescent nanoparticles of defined size, enabling quantitative modeling of intracellular diffusion. However, the short length of experimentally observed trajectories and the inherently noisy nature of diffusion limit our ability to characterize spatial diffusion heterogeneity within cells. We previously demonstrated that cytoplasmic condensates known as stress granules (SGs) generate distinct diffusion environments. Using 40-nm Genetically Encoded Nanoparticles (GEMs), we observed increased subdiffusivity inside SGs, Brownian motion near their periphery, and mild subdiffusion within the surrounding cytoplasm. Yet the low signal-to-noise ratio and short particle tracks present a major challenge for robust analysis. We hypothesized that integrating physics-based simulations with artificial intelligence–driven particle detection would improve the robustness and sensitivity of SPT analysis under low signal-to-noise conditions, enabling more accurate detection of spatial diffusion heterogeneity associated with stress granule assembly. To test this hypothesis, we developed an enhanced AI-based SPT analysis pipeline that integrates: (a) 3D simulation of subdiffusive, Brownian, and superdiffusive motion within cells containing viscosity-heterogeneous regions; (b) generation of realistic synthetic microscopy videos incorporating point-spread function distortions, Poisson noise, and camera noise; and (c) training of a U-Net–based deep-learning model for robust particle detection across a broad range of signal-to-noise ratios. Model performance is evaluated using validation accuracy, loss, and Dice coefficients across training epochs. These results establish an AI-enhanced SPT framework for quantifying intracellular diffusion heterogeneity in crowded and dynamic cellular environments. This approach provides a foundation for future applications to biologically and clinically relevant contexts, including pathological states and drug-induced cytoplasmic condensate formation, by combining U-Net–based particle detection with LSTM-based trajectory linking and motion-type classification. Supported by SC INBRE and SPARC	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Demsie, Hermella	Sweeney, Allison	Predictors of Physical Activity Goal Achievement among African American Women in the TEAM-PA Trial View Full Text Abstract Text African American (AA) women experience disproportionately high rates of cardiovascular disease and obesity, conditions strongly influenced by physical activity (PA). Group-based programs hold tremendous promise as an effective approach for engaging AA women in greater PA. Drawing from Social Cognitive Theory, goal-setting is theorized to be a critical for self-regulation. However, baseline factors, such as stress, motivation, and perceived barriers, may impact how AA women engage with group-based programs. This study uses secondary data from the Together Everyone Achieves More Physical Activity (TEAM-PA) trial, which tests the efficacy of two 10-week group-based programs for increasing PA among AA women. We hypothesized that stress and perceived barriers would be associated with meeting fewer PA goals, whereas motivation would be associated with meeting greater PA goals. Participants (N= 289, 100% AA women) completed baseline measures assessing stress, barriers to PA, and autonomous motivation, and were randomized to one of the conditions: TEAM-PA or TEAM-Wellness. Both programs involved wearing a Fitbit and setting weekly PA goals across 10 weeks, with participants receiving weekly feedback about goal attainment. Linear regression revealed that motivation was associated with meeting more weekly goals (B = .04, p = .027). Stress was marginally associated with meeting fewer weekly goals (B = -.28, p = .09). There was also greater goal attainment in the TEAM-PA condition (B = 3.02, p < .001). Finally, barriers to PA was not significantly associated with goal attainment. Participants in the TEAM-PA condition met significantly more weekly goals, suggesting that collective goal-setting and peer accountability may enhance behavioral engagement. Additionally, motivation was associated with higher goal attainment, while stress showed a marginal negative relationship with goal success. These results support the importance of group-based PA programs such as TEAM-PA and addressing psychosocial factors when designing PA interventions for AA women.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Cox, Hunter	Frizzell, Norma	Effects of Tricarboxylic Acid (TCA) Cycle-Derived Cysteine Adducts on Immune Cell Activation View Full Text Abstract Text TCA cycle metabolic remodeling yields increases in the metabolites fumarate and itaconate during inflammation, and both metabolites have immunomodulatory roles. Fumarate and itaconate also react with cysteine residues on proteins to form the adducts S-2-succinocysteine (2SC) and S-2,3-dicarboxypropylcysteine (2,3-DCP), respectively. Using mass spectrometry, non-protein bound 2SC and 2,3-DCP are increased in serum from mice acutely challenged with the bacterial antigen lipopolysaccharide (LPS), but it is unknown if these cysteine adducts impact immune cell activation. I hypothesize that non-protein bound 2SC and 2,3-DCP will reduce T cell and macrophage activation during inflammation. T cells were harvested from mouse splenocytes and differentiated using anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies and interleukin-2. Flow cytometry was performed to detect T cell surface markers CD3, CD4, and CD8, and the activation marker CD69. Incubation with itaconate or 2,3-DCP did not affect CD3, CD4, or CD8 expression. Incubation with the T cell activators phorbol myristate acetate and ionomycin for 4 or 24h strongly upregulated CD69 expression. Pretreatment with 2,3-DCP did not significantly alter CD69 expression at either timepoint for CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Bone marrow-derived macrophages were differentiated in the presence of L929 conditioned medium. Pretreatment with 2SC followed by 4h LPS incubation increased maximal extracellular acidification rate by 15.3% and glycolytic capacity by 18.2% versus LPS alone, as determined by a glycolytic rate assay. Assessment of mitochondrial respiration revealed that treatment with 2SC after a 4h LPS incubation increased basal respiration by 13.6%, ATP-linked respiration by 15.3%, and non-mitochondrial respiration by 12.6% compared to LPS alone. Overall, 2,3-DCP did not modulate T cell activation during acute and long-term inflammation. 2SC increases glycolytic rate when administered pre-LPS but increases oxidative phosphorylation when administered post-LPS, suggesting a time-dependent role in regulating metabolic flexibility during the macrophage immune response.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Burns, Sam	Hancock, Nathan	Assembly and Comparative Analysis of Sabal palmetto Genomes Linked to a Herbarium Specimen View Full Text Abstract Text Sabal palmetto is a palm native to the southeastern United States, Cuba, and the Bahamas, yet its genomic diversity and population structure remain largely uncharacterized. We assembled a Sabal palmetto genome during an undergraduate bioinformatics course and expanded the work to quantify local genetic diversity in the Aiken, South Carolina region. This project now aims to create a permanent, verifiable reference by linking our genomic dataset to a curated herbarium specimen at the University of South Carolina Herbarium (USCH). We collected leaf tissue from 20 trees in Aiken and generated resequencing reads to characterize genetic variation. Reads were aligned to the reference assembly, processed through a standard variant-calling workflow, and variants are annotated to estimate the amount and distribution of genetic variation across sampled trees. In parallel, we are preserving and formally depositing a representative specimen from Fort Moultrie so the sequence data are anchored to a physical specimen that can be re-examined for identity and future study. By coupling population-scale resequencing with an archived specimen, this work strengthens reproducibility and enables confident reuse of the dataset.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Yager, Gwenyth	Regan, Elizabeth	A Qualitative Review of Brain Health Fitness, an Exercise Program for People with Cognitive Impairment View Full Text Abstract Text Brain Health Fitness is a structured biweekly exercise program for people with cognitive impairments and their care partners. The program is prescribed structured cardiovascular and resistance exercise with support from personal trainers. While cognitive and physical outcome measures are collected, less is known about participant perception. This qualitative review explores participant experiences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four participants: two males who participated in-person with their wives, and two female participants, one in-person and one who exercised at home with trainer support. One more interview is planned with a female participant in the in-person program. Cognitive impairments range from age-related memory impairment to early dementia. Interview questions focused on motivations for joining, barriers and facilitators to participation, perceived functional and cognitive outcomes, and recommendations for improvement. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed for recurring patterns and insights. Themes were organized around participant engagement and program impact. Participants described personalized trainer support and accountability as motivators for consistent attendance. The environment was also frequently mentioned; overall satisfaction with the location, equipment, lighting, and non-medical, upbeat atmosphere expressed. Parking was noted as a minor limitation. Perceived cognitive outcomes were mixed. Some participants reported increased mental clarity, while others noted no significant improvement but felt the program may have slowed cognitive decline. Reports of enhanced daily physical function varied. Notably, most participants described increased confidence in their movement. Care partners appreciated being able to exercise alongside their spouses, recognizing the importance of caring for their own health while supporting their loved one. Overall, findings suggest that structured exercise programs with individualized support may positively influence physical and psychosocial well-being in individuals with cognitive impairment, even when perceived cognitive changes are variable. Participant feedback highlights the importance of supportive trainers, a welcoming and well-equipped environment, and ongoing program refinement to optimize engagement.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Nathani, Marjan-E-Khadijah	Rebar, Amanda Gardner, Benjamin Petersson, Jonah	Habit Training Improves Automaticity and Health Behavior Engagement View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction Many health behaviors change efforts fail to produce lasting change, as individuals struggle to maintain new habits once initial motivation declines. Public health commonly emphasizes motivation-based strategies which can generate short-term improvement but rarely lead to sustained behavior maintenance. Because habits are automatic responses to contextual cues, strengthening cue-behavior association may promote sustainable change. Although habit-based interventions show promise, it remains unclear whether education alone is sufficient to build automaticity. This question is important for developing scalable, low-cost public health strategies. We hypothesized that participants receiving habit training would demonstrate greater increases in habit knowledge, habit strength, and behavioral frequency from pre-to post-intervention across 3 monthly follow-ups, and that knowledge would mediate improvements in habit strength. Methods We conducted a 3-month pre-post pilot trial with adults recruited nationwide through NIH ResearchMatch. Participants (N = 80, M age = 48.9, SD 14.92; 75% female) selected a personal health behavior and received habit training materials. Participants self-reported their habit strength (Self-Report Behavioral Automaticity Index), behavioral frequency, and habit knowledge (15-item quiz), pre-intervention, post-intervention and monthly follow-ups. Generalized linear mixed models assessed change over time, and cluster bootstrapping tested mediation. Results Habit strength increased significantly from baseline (M = 2.32) to post-training (M = 2.87) and remained elevated through Month 3 (M = 3.28; ps ≤ .001). Knowledge increased at Months 1 and 2 (ps < .001) but attenuated by Month 3. Behavioral frequency increased by 66% post-training (IRR = 1.66, p = .013), and higher habit strength predicted greater engagement (IRR = 1.61, p < .001). Mediation was not supported. Discussion and Conclusion Structured habit training produced gains in automaticity and increased health behavior engagement over three months. However, improvements were not explained by knowledge acquisition, suggesting that repeated behavioral practice and cue-based implementation rather than education, drive habit formation. These findings indicate that public health interventions should prioritize experiential habit-building strategies.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Zhang, Grace	Chen, Mengqian Cui, Linda Mack, Zachary	A 'Vibe Coding' Approach to Automating the Drug Screening Pipeline View Full Text Abstract Text High-throughput cell viability assays are a cornerstone of preclinical drug discovery. In our lab, we frequently perform dose-response assays in luciferase-tagged leukemia cells, yet analysis of the resulting final luminescence image relies on manual region-of-interest (ROI) selection and is the rate-limiting step. To address this limitation, we employed "vibe coding": AI-assisted programming where research intentions expressed in natural language are translated into executable code through interactive dialogue with a large language model. Through this development process, we created WellFinder and its batch-processing extension, WellSeeker: a fully automated pipeline for the detection and quantification of 96-well plate images. Implemented as an ImageJ macro followed by an R-based statistical workflow, WellSeeker automatically identifies well locations using multiple detection strategies and infers missing or low-visibility wells. The pipeline measures integrated intensity in each identified well within multiple plate images, greatly reducing hands-on analysis time. The resulting data are fed into an automated R script that performs background correction, outlier rejection, plot generation, and IC50 calculation. By using "human-in-the-loop" refinement, we were able to improve manual analysis results by minimizing human bias and accelerating data processing. This work illustrates how vibe coding democratizes software development in the life sciences, empowering small research teams to independently conduct sophisticated data analyses. By lowering the barrier to custom automation, this technique fosters deeper engagement with computational research and improves experimental reproducibility in cancer biology.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Batterson, Kate	Reynolds, Alexandria Green, Jessica	The Effect of Blue-Light Blocking Glasses on Sleep Quality and Cognitive Measures in College Students with Poor Sleep Quality View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: Evening blue-light exposure can suppress melatonin production, negatively impacting sleep quality and circadian rhythms, which impairs cognitive function. Previous studies show impaired attention, inhibitory control, reaction time, and working memory function in cognitive tasks due to sleep deprivation. Blue-light blocking glasses (BBGs) with amber lenses may reduce such issues without requiring other behavioral changes. This study aims to produce better sleep quality and improved cognitive measures in college students via BBG use. Methods: Four full-time undergraduate students (male=2, mean age=20.5, SD=1.29 years) who reported poor sleep quality (PSQI ≥5 and/or sleep efficiency ≤82%) participated. All participants wore a wrist sleep device to assess sleep factors for the entire 3-week study. The study design included one baseline week and two intervention weeks (BBGs worn two hours before bedtime). Participants performed the Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT), Go/No-Go Task, and Sternberg Working Memory Task. Results: Preliminary paired t-tests and ANOVAs were conducted. After intervention, total sleep time (TST) increased (baseline=394.5 min, intervention=449.6 min, t(3)=-4.398, p=.022); response times (RTs) on go trials were faster (M = 316 ms, SD = 31) compared to baseline (M = 329 ms, SD = 23); and RTs were faster to Present than Absent probes, consistent with typical Sternberg probe asymmetry, F(1,3)=15.466, p=.029 η² = 0.038. Go/No-Go RTs trended toward significance, t(3)=2.872, p=.064. RTs increased with memory load as participants responded slower to larger set sizes and were faster after intervention; participants performed fastest for set size 2, increased for set size 4, and slowest for set size 6, F(2, 6) = 17.870, p = .003, η² = 0.856. Conclusion: Initial findings suggest BBG use before bedtime may increase sleep duration and improve reaction time to stimuli. The sample size is limited, but the results suggest a larger group may provide statistically significant improved cognitive measures.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Tomlin, Naomi	Martin, Pamela Parker, Prince Sails-Dunbar, Tremaine Weeks, Devin Brown, Kalyn	Preaching Freedom or Preaching Silence: Black Churches at the Crossroads of Speech and Social Change View Full Text Abstract Text Research on Black churches has frequently reduced their theological diversity to a narrow binary between spiritual withdrawal and social activism. Earlier scholarship characterized segments of Black Pentecostalism as disengaged from public life, emphasizing preparation for the afterlife rather than structural change. Yet the prophetic stream of the Black Social Gospel, exemplified by Martin Luther King Jr. and sustained by contemporary leaders, insists that authentic Christian faith requires public witness against racial and economic injustice. This study examines how Black pastors navigated this theological spectrum in the wake of political violence. Specifically, what did Black Churches pastors preach after the assassination of Charlie Kirk? The sample comprises 10 churches representing diverse theological orientations, ranging from otherworldly Pentecostal traditions to congregations grounded in the prophetic Black Social Gospel. Churches were identified through systematic searches of YouTube to locate congregations with a sustained and significant online preaching presence. Sermon transcripts constituted the sole data source for analysis. The study contextualizes content analysis to code recurring theological themes, rhetorical frames, scriptural references, and explicit calls to civic engagement or restraint. Three research questions guide the inquiry: (1) How do pastors interpret political violence within theological frameworks ranging from otherworldliness to the Black Social Gospel? (2) In what ways do sermons encourage silence, neutrality, or prophetic confrontation? (3) How do theological orientations shape narratives of collective efficacy, empowerment, and community-level change? Preliminary findings will illuminate how Black churches function as sites of moral interpretation during moments of national crisis and how divergent theological commitments influence speech, silence, and pathways toward social transformation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Nagarsheth, Niki	Roberts, Jane Smith, Jenna Dahlman, Alison	Early Fine Motor Skills Predict 24-Month Communication Outcomes in Fragile X Syndrome View Full Text Abstract Text Children with fragile X syndrome (FXS), caused by a CGG repeat expansion of the FMR1 gene, typically show developmental delays within the first year of life, including motor and language delays as early as 6 months (Wheeler et al., 2021). Consistent with this finding, infants and toddlers with FXS show clear early communication delays on standardized screening measures before 24 months (Mattie & Hamrick, 2022). Early delays in communication can affect learning and social development over time, so families and providers benefit from knowing as early as possible which children may be at higher risk for later communication difficulties. Therefore, it is important to identify early, measurable behaviors that may predict later communication outcomes. Fine motor skills may serve as one such behavioral marker because early hand and object skills, such as reaching, grasping, and manipulating toys, shape how infants explore and interact during play. These skills can affect how often infants use everyday behaviors that support early communication, such as showing, giving, and using gestures during joint attention with a caregiver (Mattie & Hamrick, 2022). Prior longitudinal work with infants has also shown that fine motor skills as early as 6 months can predict later expressive language outcomes (Choi et al., 2018). Building on this work, the current study investigates how fine motor skills at 6–9 months predict 24-month communication outcomes in children with FXS (n=21) compared to neurotypical controls (n=23) across three domains: social communication, speech, and symbolic communication. Fine motor skills will be measured in infancy using the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, and 24-month communication will be measured using the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales. We hypothesize that stronger fine motor skills at 6–9 months will uniquely predict stronger communication skills at 24 months across each domain.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Stokes, LeeAnne	Pellegrini, Christine Horn, Kailyn Jamieson, Scott Nakhi, Sara	Total Knee Arthroplasty and Health Outcomes: Baseline Use of Physical Activity Monitors and Exercise View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) reduces pain and improves quality of life but does not always increase physical activity levels. Wearable activity monitors are widely used for tracking physical activity; but it is unknown if/how adults with TKA use these wearables to help with physical activity. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare physical activity goal-setting and planning habits between those using and not using activity monitors. Methods: This was a secondary analysis of baseline data from a randomized weight loss intervention in adults post–TKA. The Exercise Goal-Setting Scale (EGSS) and the Exercise Planning and Scheduling Scale (EPSS) were given to assess goal setting and exercise planning using 10 items rated on a 5-point Likert scale (1–does not describe to 5-describes completely). Items 2, 3, and 7 on EPSS were reversed scored, and a mean score was calculated based on the 10 items. A higher score was indicative of more planning or goal setting. Independent t-tests compared goal setting and planning between those with and without wearables. Results: A total of 179 participants (age=65.9±8.4, BMI=33.9±4.6, 73% white, 23% black, 68% female) were included, and 48% reported using a monitor (Apple Watch = 48%, Fitbit = 22%, and Other = 30%). Participants with a monitor had higher EGSS scores (2.24±0.84) than those without a monitor (1.86±0.93, p=0.005). There were no significant differences in EPSS scores between participants with a monitor (2.37±0.50) and participants without a monitor (2.35±0.56, p=0.83). Conclusion: Wearable activity monitor users demonstrated higher exercise goal-setting scores but did not differ in exercise planning behaviors compared to non-users. The findings suggest that device use may align more closely with goal-setting behaviors than planning in adults post-TKA. Future work could explore whether integrating wearable technology immediately post-TKA, along with structured behavioral support enhances physical activity engagement.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Tucker, Sonali	Banerjee, Meeta	Coping with Discrimination: Parental Experiences and Socialization as a Buffer for Adolescent Coping View Full Text Abstract Text Youth of color are at risk of being exposed to racial discrimination via direct or vicarious encounters (Benner et al., 2018). These associations have been linked to poorer mental and physical health (Pascoe & Smart Richman, 2009). There has been a call for finding what mechanisms may offset the effects of racial discrimination. Parents of racially marginalized youth can play a role in promoting positive coping strategies to build resilience to racial discrimination using techniques that build ethnic/racial socialization (ERS). ERS has a unique impact on an individual's ability to cope with discrimination (Wang et al., 2020). Individuals who encounter culturally relevant racial socialization messages are more likely to remain resilient when encountering racial discrimination (Brown & Tylka, 2011). Impacts of discrimination can influence the psychological development and wellbeing of racially marginalized youth. Previous findings indicate complex and variable associations between ERS as a buffer between coping and racial discrimination. The current study serves to further empirical data by examining whether parent’s experience with racial discrimination is associated with the parent perception of their child’s ability to cope. The sample consisted of 258 participants, of which the majority identified as male (n=181, 70.2%) and the remainder identified as female (n=77, 29.8%). Self reported measures assessed for perceived discrimination, ERS, parent's perception of their child’s ability to cope. Preliminary analyses reveal significant associations between perceived discrimination, ERS and parent's perceptions of their child’s ability to cope. ERS is positively significant with perceptions of coping as well. Future research will explore whether ethnic/racial socialization can buffer the relationship between discrimination and coping. Implications for how parenting practices may be vital for racially/ethnically minoritized youth in deleterious contexts will be discussed.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Raynor, Danielle	Kristinsson, Sigfus	Moving Towards Longevity: Physical Activity and Brain Health in Super-Agers View Full Text Abstract Text ‘Super-Agers’ is a relatively novel concept in aging research, referring to individuals who are cognitively resilient to the negative effects of aging. This small population maintains a midlife level function and activity in late life, which puts them at lower risk for the development of diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, etc. Previous studies have focused on genetics, lifestyle, and physical activity as biomarkers associated with resilient aging, and recent results suggest that physical activity is beneficial to overall brain aging. However, the specificity of time point, frequency, and intensity’s impact on brain health requires further research. This study examines the hypothesis that greater midlife physical activity, moderate to high intensity, is a protective factor that predicts resilient brain aging. Relying on retrospective data from the Age, Gene/Environment Susceptibility (AGES) study, participants aged 85 years of age or older who underwent neuroimaging and cognitive testing across three domains (memory, processing speed, executive functioning) were included in data analyses. Participants who demonstrated preserved cognitive performance, measured as equal to or greater than that of study participants younger than 70 years of age, were classified as ‘Super-Agers’. The primary analysis used logistic regression to examine the association between self-reported midlife physical activity (type & duration) and odds of being classified as a Super-Ager after adjusting for the effects of age, sex, and education. While data analysis is ongoing, preliminary results suggest a graded relationship where participants who were more active in midlife are more likely to retain cognitive functioning in old age.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lee, Taelee	Stewart, Jill	Motor Sequence Learning of Individual Components in the Non-Dominant Left and the Dominant Right Arms View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: Motor sequence learning with repeated practice has been well-described. However, differences in learning for the individual components for movement sequence and between the non-dominant left arm and the dominant right arm are not well-understood. Kinematic measures of trial-by-trial changes in a three-dimensional whole-arm sequence task may provide insight into how reaching control changes across trials. The purpose of this study was to investigate motor skill learning of the components of a motor sequence that required whole-arm reaching movements with the non-dominant left arm compared with the dominant right arm. Methods: Fifty-one right-hand dominant healthy young adults were divided into two groups: a left-arm group (n = 27) and a right-arm group (n = 24). Participants completed a three-dimensional reaching task to seven targets using the assigned arm on two consecutive days (Day 1 72 trials and Day 2 36 trials). Reaching performance was assessed by movement time, hand path distance, and peak velocity. To examine skill acquisition and learning, all independent variables were analyzed by a linear mixed effect model using R, with Hand (Right vs. Left) and Trial Number as fixed effects and Subject as a random effect. Results: Across target locations, movement time significantly decreased over trials on both Day 1 and Day 2 (β < −0.006, P < 0.01). Hand path distance to reach the target decreased with practice across target locations (β < −0.019, P < 0.05). Across target locations on Day 1, peak velocity was significantly greater in the Right-arm than in the Left-arm with practice (β < 0.032, P < 0.001). Conclusion: These findings suggest that the left and right arms have similar acquisition and learning trends across the individual components of a movement sequence, despite achieving improvements through different movement strategies.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Haigler, Daniel	Outten, Wayne Pare, Matthew	Investigating the role of monothiol glutaredoxin binding protein GrxD in coordinating crosstalk between Iron-Sulfur clusters biogenesis and morphology. View Full Text Abstract Text Glutaredoxin (GrxD) is a monothiol glutaredoxin involved in iron–sulfur (Fe–S) cluster trafficking and storage. GrxD has been observed to form a heterodimer with BolA, a protein implicated in various stress response pathways and cell morphology. Although bolA has been linked to morphology, it is unclear whether GrxD also influences cell shape through its interaction with BolA. If BolA dependent morphological changes require heterodimerization with GrxD, then overexpression or deletion of grxD may similarly alter morphology. To test this, we will generate grxD overexpression and deletion strains alongside a wild-type control. A fluorescent protein, mCherry, will be integrated into the genome to enable visualization of cell morphology. Fluorescence microscopy will be used to image cells allowing for quantitative analysis. Comparing these parameters across strains will determine whether altered grxD expression impacts morphology and clarify the functional significance of the GrxD–BolA interaction.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Falk, Madeline	Poulain, Fabienne	Analysis of Contactin-2 Expression and Sub-Cellular Localization in the Developing Visual System View Full Text Abstract Text Proper brain functioning relies on precise neuronal wiring, a process that begins early in life as axons grow and navigate to their targets. In the visual system, retinal projections form topographic maps, preserving the spatial layout of the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) they originate from in the retina. Our previous work showed that nasal retinal projections first arborize in the anterior tectum, then refine to the posterior tectum, sharpening the retinotopic map along the antero-posterior (A/P) axis. However, A/P axis refinement does not occur in mutants lacking Contactin-2, a cellular adhesion molecule that promotes neuronal growth and axon fasciculation. This study examined cntn2’s role in axon guidance and map refinement by characterizing its expression and sub-cellular localization throughout development. First, we performed in-situ hybridization (ISH) on embryos fixed from 2-7 days post-fertilization (dpf) to quantify cntn2 retinal expression. We found that cntn2 predominantly localizes to the nasal region of the RGC layer. To track sub-cellular Cntn2 distribution along retinal axons, we generated a plasmid encoding cntn2 fused to Super ecliptic pHluorin (SEP) and TagRFP (SEP-TagRFP-cntn2). SEP is a pH-sensitive GFP that fluoresces at neutral pH, marking membrane-localized Cntn2, while TagRFP is pH-insensitive and fluoresces in all cellular compartments. In muscle cells, we found both SEP and TagRFP at the plasma membrane but only Tag-RFP in acidic organelles, validating our plasmid. In future work, we will express SEP-TagRFP-cntn2 in RGCs to track Cntn2 localization along nasal retinal axons during map refinement. Our results will offer a first visualization of receptor trafficking in axons in an intact embryo and insight into Cntn2’s role in circuit formation and refinement.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Katemba, Arissa	Banerjee, Meeta	EXAMING RACIAL ETHNIC IDENTITY IN LATINX COLLEGE STUDENTS AND ITS PROTECTIVE ROLE IN DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS View Full Text Abstract Text Racial discrimination remains a persistent problem in the United States and has been shown to elicit negative mental health outcomes in minority populations (Pascoe & Smart Richman, 2008). Furthermore, research indicates that experiences of racial discrimination is common among college students and is related to poor academic performance, depression, anxiety, and sleep problems (Banerjee et al., 2023; Bravo et al., 2023; Stevens et al., 2018). Considering this evidence along with how the college years are a critical developmental period, this study will continue to examine the role that racial discrimination plays in the psychological outcomes of marginalized college students. Additionally, this study will evaluate the protective role of racial ethnic identity on the association between racial discrimination and depressive symptoms. We hypothesize that (1) more experiences of racial discrimination will be related to higher levels of depressive symptoms and (2) racial ethnic identity will buffer the impact of racial discrimination on depressive symptoms. The current study is comprised of a sample of 607 Latinx college students from a large Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) in the Southwestern United States. Participants were asked to report their experiences with current discrimination, as well as their memories of teacher and peer discrimination along with reporting their current depressive symptoms. Preliminary analyses show that there are significant positive associations between all three forms of discrimination and depressive symptoms. Specifically, all experiences of racial discrimination were associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms. Further research will explore the moderating role of racial ethnic identity. We aim to deepen our understanding about how racial discrimination impacts the depressive symptoms of our target demographic and to evaluate whether racial ethnic identity can serve as a protective factor against the negative implications of racial discrimination.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Toth, Madeline	Hollingsworth, Brandon	Naegleria fowleri seroprevalence and risk factors for exposure within the University of South Carolina Campus Community View Full Text Abstract Text Central nervous system infection with the amoeba Naegleria fowleri leads to approximately 16 deaths each year in the US, with only four known survivors among all cases reported to date. Infection typically occurs following forceful inhalation of contaminated water during recreation, leading to rapidly progressing brain swelling and Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM). Despite the rarity of PAM, two recent serological surveys have reported >90% seropositivity to N. fowleri, indicating exposure to the amoeba is likely more common than previously thought. Therefore, the goal of this study is to understand N. fowleri seroprevalence among individuals on the University of South Carolina campus and risk factors for exposure. This study will recruit 500 individuals between the ages of 18-25 from across the country in April and September to donate a dried blood spot. Using these sample dried blood spots, we will do an ELISA to detect the presence of IgG and IgA antibodies to N. fowleri. Additionally, we will ask students questions about their outdoor recreational activities such as swimming, kayaking, and boating. The results of this study will increase our understanding of N. fowleri exposures among individuals in the USC community and how outdoor recreational activities may be associated with exposure. Further, understanding risk factors for exposure can help inform mitigation strategies to prevent future PAM cases.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Muhly, Autumn	Frost, Daniel Crotwell, Philip	Understanding Lower Mantle and Outer Core Structure- The Longer Way! View Full Text Abstract Text Variations in seismic wave speed and the directional dependence of velocity (anisotropy) in the outer core and mantle act as key indicators of mantle composition and flow. Studies have observed velocity variations in the mantle, which are variably interpreted as thermal or compositional changes, and a velocity reduction in the uppermost outer core which has been interpreted as a stratification of light elements. These studies typically use the phase SmKS, which propagates as S waves in the mantle and as P waves (K) in upper outer core and reflects off the underside of the core-mantle boundary (m-times). However, these phases are only visible at a specific range of earthquake-station distances. This, combined with the non-uniform distribution of earthquakes and stations results in most studies of the lower mantle and outermost core utilizing similarly located earthquake-station pairs, in turn resulting in biased spatial sampling. Consequently, it cannot be conclusively known whether seismic velocity variations in the outer core are a regional or global feature. To overcome this sampling limitation, we use major arc variations of SmKS, which travel the longer distance between earthquake and station, in contrast to the shorter minor arc path, which is typically used. These waves travel through previously unsampled areas of the Earth. The long major arc path leads to weak amplitudes, which we amplify using beamforming, and measure the travel time and incoming wave direction. We apply beamforming to both radial and transverse component seismograms, from which we can estimate shear-wave splitting. We apply this method to earthquakes of magnitude 5.5-7.5 with earthquake-station distances of 90-160° from stations in Southern California. Our preliminary results show beamforming major arc SmKS waves are possible and both time and directional measurements are attainable, as is shear-wave splitting.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Belcher, Erin	Chen, Mengqian Broude, Eugenia Mack, Zachary Roninson, Igor	Engineering CDK8/19-mutant breast cancer cell lines using CRISPR-ABE for mechanistic studies of drug synergy View Full Text Abstract Text While targeting the Mediator kinases CDK8 and CDK19 has shown promise in overcoming drug resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer (HER2+ BC), generating accurate genetic models remains a significant technical challenge. Our lab’s conventional CRISPR-Cas9 pipeline requires a multi-step process: creating a full knockout followed by the knock-in overexpression of mutant or wild-type alleles. However, HER2+ BC cell lines (specifically HCC1954, BT474, and SKBR3) frequently fail to survive the subcloning steps following a complete CDK8/19 knockout. This suggests that these kinases may possess essential, kinase-independent functions required for clonal growth and survival in these specific backgrounds. To overcome these viability hurdles and streamline the engineering process, we employed Adenine Base Editing (ABE). Unlike traditional CRISPR which disrupts the entire protein, ABE allows for a "one-step" solution by introducing precise, kinase-dead mutations (D173G in CDK8 and D151G in CDK19) directly into the endogenous genome. This approach inactivates kinase activity while preserving the physical presence of the protein, thereby avoiding the cellular stress associated with a total loss of CDK8/19. By bypassing the need for separate knockout and knock-in steps, this method more faithfully models the action of selective inhibitors like SNX631 in a fraction of the time. This project proved to be challenging and required extensive optimization and troubleshooting. We employed CRISPR-Cas9 adenosine base editing (ABE8e) to introduce CDK8 and CDK19 sgRNA guide sequences into highly transfectable HEK293 cells using Lipofectamine 3000. Our plasmid vector includes a transient GFP selection marker, enabling sequential enrichment of CDK8- and CDK19-mutant cell populations. Successful transfection of the CDK19 guide sequence was confirmed by GFP expression. While further experiments are needed to improve transfection efficiency and introduce additional engineered plasmids, these preliminary results are promising.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Shelton, Lorraine	Edmunds, Sarah	Neurodivergent Student Needs and Experiences View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Neurodivergent students are entering college at unprecedented rates (Pinder-Amaker, 2014). However, these academic spaces are not often designed with the needs of non-neurotypical individuals in mind. Little research has explored neurodivergent college students' experiences and needs. Aims: To understand the lived experiences of neurodivergent college students at the University of South Carolina. Method: A survey was created to explore neurodivergent USC students’ experiences and potential differences by type of neurodivergent identity. A sample of n=481 was recruited among neurodivergent undergraduates at the University of South Carolina. Participants reported on their experiences and needs living independently, neurodivergent identity, their academic satisfaction, relationship with the Student Disability Resource Center, and peer connections and experiences of acceptance. All domains were averages of Likert-scale items that ranged from Strongly Disagree (1) to Strongly Agree (7). They also reported on their type of neurodivergent identity (e.g., Autism, ADHD, OCD, Dyslexia). Results: 165, 65, and 71 students self-identified as having ADHD, autism, and OCD, respectively. On average, students reported feeling slightly accepted and having positive relationships (Mean=5.779, SD=1.204). A repeated-measures ANOVA found a significant difference in reported experiences of feeling accepted on campus by identity group (p=0.011), with individuals identifying as Autistic feeling less accepted on campus than individuals who have ADHD (p=0.018). On average, students reported slightly confident and positive attitudes towards living independently (Mean=5.391, SD=1.506) and neutral to slightly negative attitudes towards the SDRC (Mean=4.13, SD=0.67). Students felt neutral about their belonging at USC as a neurodivergent student (M=4.56, SD=1.19). Discussion: Autistic students experience significantly higher stigma than their counterparts with ADHD. Additionally, neurodivergent students reported neutral feelings of belonging. Future research could assess mechanisms of acceptance and belonging among autistic youth and young adults. Programming to support social connectedness among neurodivergent students is needed to increase social well-being and belonging.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
DiCintio, Alannah	Waldman, Alan	Genomic instability as a driver of aging: consequences of reduced ZMPSTE24 expression on DNA damage accumulation and nuclear morphology View Full Text Abstract Text Restrictive dermopathy (RD), is an autosomal recessive rare genetic disorder that is neonatal lethal. If children are liveborn, they usually do not make it through the first week of life due to pulmonary insufficiency. RD is caused by mutations that eliminate the expression of the ZMPSTE24 protease. ZMPSTE24 plays a key role in the posttranslational processing of lamin A, an essential protein in a structure called the nuclear lamina, which plays a critical role in a variety of nuclear functions. The form of lamin A produced in the absence of ZMPSTE24 is permanently farnesylated and methylated. Additionally, there are other rare genetic disorders that can caused reduced expression of ZMPSTE24 which include atypical Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome and Mandibuloacral dysplasia type B. These mutations that reduce expression of ZMPSTE24 result in disorders that shorten lifespan and produce symptoms of premature aging. Interestingly, ZMPSTE24 levels are also believed to decrease naturally during the aging process. Previous studies from our lab and other groups have shown that other mutant forms of lamin A that are incompletely processed cause a decreased ability to maintain genomic integrity. To increase our knowledge about both the biology of aging as well as ZMPSTE24 deficiency disorders, we are investigating the effects of ZMPSTE24 deficiency on DNA damage accumulation and nuclear morphology. To do so, we have used CRISPR/Cas9 to knock out the ZMPSTE24 gene in a human fibroblast cell line. We are studying the impact of ZMPSTE24 deficiency on the accumulation of DNA damage and nuclear morphology as visualized by immunofluorescence approaches. Results to date indicate increased damage and nuclear abnormalities in the absence of ZMPSTE24. We present our ongoing studies using our model system to investigate the effects of ZMPSTE24 deficiency on genome and nuclear integrity.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Walsh, Ryan	Meyer-Gutbrod, Erin	Seasonal, annual, and decadal changes in body condition of Pacific Coast Feeding Group gray whales in northwest Washington View Full Text Abstract Text The body condition of gray whales can be used for evaluating individual health through observable differences in their lipid stores. In this study, lateral photos of Pacific Coast Feeding Group (PCFG) gray whales were collected in the coastal waters of northwest Washington, USA. The PCFG is a unique feeding group of gray whales within the Eastern North Pacific that utilize waters of northern California to northern British Columbia to forage rather than making the full migration to the arctic feeding grounds utilized by the wider population. The post-crania, scapula, and lateral flanks of individuals of this unique feeding group were analyzed qualitatively to determine whether a whale was in “good,” “fair,” or “poor” condition. We evaluated seasonal, annual, and decadal changes in body condition in addition to differences among demographic units throughout this study. This presentation will explore the effects that a recent Unusual Mortality Event and the strong El Niño event of 2014–2016 had on the health and abundance of the PCFG, with implications for informing timely management efforts for this feeding group.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Walker, Makensie	Mactutus, Charles Booze, Rosemarie Shtutman, Michael Li, Hailong	Microglial Viability and Cytokine Expression in the Presence of Antiretroviral Treatment View Full Text Abstract Text Over the past four decades, medications have been developed to help people living with HIV (PLWH) manage their symptoms and decrease viral loads; this treatment regimen is known as combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). However, HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) still affect up to 50% of PLWH on cART. In vitro studies have shown that neuroinflammation and microglial activation are two key indicators of HAND pathogenesis in PLWH on cART, though the specific biological processes involved are not well understood. The present study aimed to assess how cART influences microglial phenotypes and viability. Two cART models were selected for this study in line with current prescribing guidelines: BIC/FTC/TAF and FTC/TFV/DTG. BV2 cells (immortalized murine microglia) were treated with either BIC/FTC/TAF, FTC/TFV/DTG, or corresponding vehicle controls. First, a colorimetric assay was used to examine the metabolic activity of viable cells in the presence of drug treatment for 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours. Both drug models significantly increased metabolic activity, though FTC/TAF/DTG was the only drug to do so when accounting for other potential factors as well. Next, a multiplex immunoassay assessed how the presence of drug treatment influenced the expression of 32 cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors over 2, 4, 6, and 8 days. Of the 32 proteins tested, BIC/FTC/TAF significantly lowered the expression of IL-1α, IL-9, IL-15, and LIF, and FTC/TFV/DTG significantly decreased IL-3 and KC levels. Significant positive linear relationships between time and expression were found for IL-17 and TNF-α in BIC/FTC/TAF-treated cells and IL-1α, IL-12p40, and IL-17 in FTC/TFV/DTG-treated cells. In summary, these results indicate that, of the two drug models, FTC/TFV/DTG appears to have a greater overall effect on microglia, particularly one that may contribute to the development of HAND in PLWH on lifelong cART regimens.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Kaur, Shireen Heaberlin, Audrey	Goodman, Christopher	Medicolegal Experiential Learning for Medical Students Through CHAMPS Clinic: A Case Report View Full Text Abstract Text The USC School of Medicine curriculum requires students to learn about the social determinants of health, which entail how healthy living is shaped by factors such as income, education, race, gender, etc. The CHAMPS clinic provides free legal assistance to low-income clients, requiring legal counsel to obtain financial aid they need for essential treatments and medications. Through CHAMPS, medical students may change how they practice medicine by witnessing how these factors impact people beyond the doctor-patient interaction. We looked at multiple cases identifying any connections to the USC curriculum, finding that the topics most encountered were patients’ inability to afford treatment (economic inequity), health issues from chronic illnesses necessitating early intervention, and inadequate medico-legal literacy. Students could contribute to the legal team by providing descriptions of medical language and volunteering time to find evidence of health impairment from medical records. This case report-based research project aims to highlight the importance of medico-legal exposure for medical students to better equip them to provide equitable care for all patients of varying socioeconomic standings. This experience is vital for all medical students as it will better prepare future doctors to advocate for their patients beyond providing solely medical care, encouraging them to consider external factors that may prevent their patient from living a healthy, fulfilling life. It will unmask health, financial, and living inequities and facilitate medico-legal conversations with the best interest of the patient in mind. Moving forward, we will explore how CHAMPS can be further integrated at the USC School of Medicine to promote education on the intersection of the social determinants of health, policy, and clinical care, for future physicians to approach patient care in a more holistic way.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Allender, Shannon	Davis, Shannon	The effect of Psat1 deficiency in cell proliferation and hormone production in pituitary gland development View Full Text Abstract Text The gene Phosphoserine aminotransferase 1 (Psat1) codes for an enzyme required for biosynthesis of the amino acid Serine. Previous investigations have found that Psat1 knockout mice have anterior pituitary gland malformations on day 14.5 of embryonic development (e14.5) (Martinez-Mayer et al., 2024), establishing that the enzyme’s metabolic function plays a critical role in pituitary gland development. The purpose of this experiment is to investigate the mechanism behind how the loss of a key metabolic enzyme leads to pituitary malformation. Serine can contribute carbon to the folate cycle, which is necessary for the synthesis of DNA nucleotides and methylation. This means that abnormal development might be caused by low proliferation from reduction of nucleotides necessary for the synthesis of DNA or from an epigenetic effect caused by improper methylation. To begin our investigation, we are determining if Psat1 deficiency disrupts the cell cycle in pituitary progenitor cells. To measure cell proliferation, immunofluorescence (IF) staining for Ki67, a protein expressed in proliferating cells, was performed on embryos deficient in Psat1 during pituitary gland formation. The number of proliferating cells will be determined using ImageJ software to count the proliferating cells in the embryonic pituitary gland for Psat1 homozygous null embryos and their wild type littermates. If the Psat1 knockouts show reduced cell proliferation compared to Psat1 wild type mice, it would point to DNA nucleotide deficiency as a potential cause of anterior pituitary malformation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Nakhi, Sara	Pellegrini, Christine Horn, Kailyn Jamieson, Scott Stokes, LeeAnne Rebar, Amanda	Exercise Self-Identity as a Predictor of ActiGraph Measured Physical Activity After Total Knee Arthroplasty View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is the most common inpatient surgical procedure in the United States, with projection to reach about 3.48 million by 2030. Despite improvements in pain and self-reported function, objectively measured physical activity often remains low after surgery. This gap suggests that physical capacity alone may not determine real-world activity behavior. Psychological factors, such as exercise self-identity which is how an individual’s view themselves as “exercisers” may play an important role in post-operative physical activity. Purpose: To examine whether exercise self-identity predicts objectively measured physical activity in adults within 6 months of TKA, independent of demographic and physical functioning. Methods: This study is a secondary analysis of baseline data from adults within 6 months post-TKA enrolled in a weight loss intervention study. Participants were given waist-worn ActiGraph accelerometers for 7 days to assess daily steps and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (mins/day Exercise self-identity was measured using the 9-item Exercise Identity Scale (5-point Likert; higher scores indicate stronger exercise identity). Linear regression models examined whether exercise self-identity predicted physical activity after controlling for age, sex, BMI, time since surgery, and 6MWT. Results: Participants (N=182, 67% female, age: 65.9±8.4 years, BMI: 33.9±4.6 kg/m²) averaged 3,902±1,967 steps/day, 8.3±10.9 minutes MVPA/day, and average Exercise Self Identity 2.8584±0.87724. Exercise self-identity significantly predicted daily steps (R²=0.33, p=0.017) and MVPA (R²=0.30, p=0.016) after controlling for covariates. At the sample mean, each one-point increase in exercise identity was associated with a 372 increase in daily steps (β=0.091) and an 8.3 minute increase in daily MVPA (β=0.240). Conclusion: Exercise self-identity significantly predicted objectively measured physical activity in post-TKA patients. Assessing exercise self-identity may help clinicians identify patients at risk for physical inactivity following TKA. Rehabilitation programs should consider fostering exercise self-identity alongside traditional physical interventions to promote sustained physical activity.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Flynn, Kennedy	Hollingsworth, Brandon Lynn, Mary Torelli, Madeleine Zellars, Kia	Environmental Surveillance of Naegleria fowleri in South Carolina Water Bodies View Full Text Abstract Text Naegleria fowleri is a free-living aquatic amoeba and most common cause of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in humans. With an estimated 16 cases per year, PAM has a nearly 97% fatality rate. The majority of PAM cases have been associated with recreational activities in waterbodies, after accidental inhalation of amoeba-contaminated water that reaches the central nervous system. Three fatal cases of this rare infection have been reported in South Carolina within the last decade, including one case in July 2025 from Lexington County. Despite the public health risk, the relationship between environmental conditions and N. fowleri concentration is currently unknown. We will sample 15 waterbodies, consisting of a mix of rivers, small lakes, and large lakes, throughout South Carolina (Upstate, Midlands, and Low Country) that are commonly used for recreation. At each waterbody, we will collect 1L of freshwater from high and low recreational use areas once a month from May to September. During visits, we will also measure biotic and abiotic water conditions, including temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH. We will then determine N. fowleri concentration within samples by qPCR. Understanding the environmental conditions that influence the concentration of N. fowleri can provide insight into environmental risk as well as determining what is considered an abnormal concentration of amoeba in water. It is essential to determine environmental conditions associated with the concentration of N. fowleri in local water bodies to help inform the public, allowing them to take appropriate preventative measures.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Cui, Linda	Chen, Mengqian Mack, Zach	A Systematic Approach to Verifying CRISPR-Cas9 Edited Cell Lines View Full Text Abstract Text Reliable disease modeling requires cell lines that accurately reflect their intended genetic profiles. In our research on CDK8/19, we use Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK) 293 NF-κB reporter cells to study how the kinases CDK8 and CDK19 potentiate NF-κB-mediated transcription. Previous work in our lab demonstrated that CDK8/19 inhibitors reduce TNFα-induced luciferase expression in wild-type (WT) reporter cells but have no effect in the CDK8/19 double-knockout (dKO) derivative. This isogenic pair is routinely used to evaluate the potency and selectivity of new compounds targeting CDK8/19 kinase activity. My first project involved performing IC50 assays to compare the potency of our newly developed CDK8/19-targeting PROTAC degrader, SNX7886, with its parent inhibitor, BI1347. Unexpectedly, the cells labeled as dKO displayed a dose-response profile indistinguishable from the WT population for both compounds. After observing this result twice, rather than dismissing it as a technical artifact, we initiated a systematic investigation into the cell line’s identity. A review of cell culture records revealed nearly identical doubling times (30.76 hours for WT vs. 30.26 hours for dKO), inconsistent with prior observations of faster WT (~24 hours) and slower dKO (~40 hours) proliferation. Subsequent Western blot analysis confirmed the presence of both CDK8 and CDK19 proteins in the supposed dKO cells at WT levels, suggesting a labeling error or mix-up during long-term culture. By identifying this discrepancy early, we avoided a significant misinterpretation of our assay results. We subsequently recovered a validated cryopreserved stock to restore the model’s integrity. This experience serves as a reminder for student researchers: unexpected results are opportunities for rigorous troubleshooting. Our findings underscore the importance of routinely monitoring growth characteristics and pharmacologic responses to ensure the reliability of biological models in cancer research.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Gupta, Namya	Hollingsworth, Brandon Lynn, Katie Zellars, Kia Meyer, Madeleine	Culturing of Naegleria Fowleri Under Various Temperatures and Chlorine Conditions View Full Text Abstract Text Naegleria fowleri, a thermophilic amoeba, is the main cause of the highly fatal brain disease, Primary Amoeba Meningoencephalitis (PAM), resulting in approximately 16 deaths per year in the US, with a 97% fatality rate. Delivered to the brain through forceful inhalation of contaminated water, N. fowleri is reported to be found in most freshwater environments (e.g., ponds, lakes, rivers, swimming pools). However, factors affecting its population growth are not well described, making its concentration hard to predict. To address this, we will culture N. fowleri under varying environmental conditions to determine the optimal conditions for population growth as well as chlorine levels that inhibit its growth. We will test seven temperatures (10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, and 40°C), and five chlorine concentrations (0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 ppm) in (1) deionized water (H2O), which lacks nutrients and food sources, (2) natural pond water, which contains various microbes, food source, and nutrients and (3) growth media, which will include Escherichia coli as its bacterial food source. Temperature was selected as a parameter as it makes an ideal natural environment for growth whereas the disinfectant chlorine was selected to determine safe concentrations. A factorial design will be implemented to evaluate individual and interactive effects of selected parameters. Our results will show how temperature and chlorine concentration interact to impact N. fowleri population growth, and how results vary by water type. Understanding the specific conditions that impact the growth of N. fowleri will help inform surveillance, where the amoeba is expected to be found, and risk mitigation strategies towards PAM prevention.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Davis, Abbie	Simoska, Olja	Electrochemical Investigation of Virulence Metabolism in Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Polymicrobial Communities View Full Text Abstract Text Polymicrobial infections represent a major and growing clinical challenge, contributing to increased morbidity, treatment failure, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Despite this, most laboratory studies are conducted in monoculture (i.e., single species), overlooking how interspecies can influence pathogenic behavior. Herein, we investigated how microbial community composition influences virulence factor production by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), an opportunistic human pathogen increasingly associated with AMR. A central virulence determinant uniquely produced by PA is pyocyanin (PYO), a redox-active phenazine species that induces oxidative stress in host tissues and shapes microbial competition through extracellular electron transfer. Due to its redox activity, PYO serves as a selective electrochemical biomarker of PA metabolic state. Square wave voltammetry (SWV) was employed to quantify PYO over a 48-h growth period, while spectroscopic optical density (OD) measurements monitored PA cellular growth rates. Mono-, dual-, and tri-species cultures were evaluated, including combinations of PA with Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and Escherichia coli (EC), microorganisms frequently co-isolated with PA in clinical infections. In monocultures, PA produced approximately 250 µM PYO. Co-cultures with SA reduced PYO to around 100 µM, whereas EC nearly abolished PYO production (down to 10 µM). In tri-species cultures, PYO partially recovered (around 45 µM), suggesting that although EC exerts strong inhibitory pressure, PA retains metabolic activity within mixed micro-communities. OD measurements confirmed growth under all conditions, yet did not resolve species-specific contributions. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that polymicrobial interactions significantly reshape the expression of redox virulence factors, with community composition exerting strong control over PYO production. Reduced PYO levels in mixed cultures likely reflect the combined effects of altered PA abundance, metabolic regulation, and interspecies competition. These results underscore the necessity of studying pathogens within clinically relevant microbial communities to accurately model infection dynamics and to inform diagnostic and treatment strategies that account for microbial complexity.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Richardson, Lena	Armstrong, Alissa	Examining the Cell Autonomous Role of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases and Their Ligands in Adipocyte Form and Function View Full Text Abstract Text Adipose tissue is essential for maintaining metabolic homeostasis; however, excessive fat accumulation can lead to adipocyte dysfunction and metabolic disease. Healthy adipocytes regulate the accumulation of lipids and glycogen, coordinate endocrine signaling, and facilitate inter-organ communication. Many of these processes are controlled by nutrient-sensitive signaling pathways initiated by ligand binding to its Receptor Tyrosine Kinase (RTK). Previous work in the Armstrong lab demonstrated that the insulin receptor, a RTK, is influential in maintaining lipid droplet size and adipocyte cell area in Drosophila melanogaster. Given the conservation of RTKs between Drosophila and mammals, additional RTKs were investigated to see if they elicit similar responses. The goal of this project is to analyze the effect of receptor tyrosine kinases and their ligands on adipocyte morphology and composition. Seven RTKs were selected and knocked down using the temperature sensitive UAS/GAL4/GAL80 system for dsRNA RNAi transcription. Adipocytes from RTK knockdown flies were analyzed via immunofluorescence microscopy to quantify adipocyte cell and lipid droplet area. Knockdown of growth factor RTKs, including Breathless, Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor, Heartless, and PVR (PDGF/VEGF receptor homolog), resulted in increased average cell and lipid droplet size. In contrast, Anaplastic lymphoma kinase knockdown reduced cell and lipid droplet area relative to controls. Sevenless and Torso knockdown didn’t significantly alter adipocyte morphology. To further define the metabolic consequences of these morphological changes, triglyceride and glycogen assays will be performed to assess long and short-term energy storage. Additionally, RNAi-mediated knockdown of the corresponding ligands for the RTKs will be conducted to determine whether ligand knockdown will elicit the same observed phenotypes. qRT-PCR experiments of RTKs and ligands expression throughout the body along with changes in their expression across different diets will also be conducted. This study will expand the understanding of RTK-mediated regulation of adipocyte morphology and energy homeostasis.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Pandya, Rushali	Stewart, Jill	Relationship Between Self-reported Body Position and Paretic Arm Activity Amount and Intensity in Chronic Stroke: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study View Full Text Abstract Text After stroke, individuals often show reduced paretic arm use in daily life. Motor impairment alone does not fully explain this reduction. Body position (e.g., standing vs. sitting) influences goal-directed upper extremity performance, but its effect on real-world arm use after stroke is unclear. This secondary analysis examined the relationship between self-reported body position and momentary paretic arm activity duration and intensity in everyday life among individuals with chronic stroke. Thirty right-hand dominant individuals with chronic stroke affecting the right arm (age 61.1±13.1 years; 54.2±45.5 months post-stroke; Upper Extremity Fugl-Meyer (FM) 47.2±14.8) participated. Participants wore wrist accelerometers (ActiGraph GT9X) on both arms and completed ecological momentary assessment (EMA) surveys six times daily for five consecutive days between 7 am and 9 pm. Paretic arm activity during the 10 minutes preceding each EMA prompt was analyzed. Activity amount was defined as total movement time above an empirical baseline threshold; intensity was defined as median movement magnitude. Ratios of paretic to nonparetic arm activity were calculated. Linear mixed models tested whether FM and body position predicted activity amount, intensity, and their ratios (paretic/nonparetic). Across 856 EMA responses, participants most frequently reported sitting (59.4%), followed by standing (18.1%), dynamic positions such as walking (13.7%), and lying down (8.7%). Self-reported body position (β=1.208, p<.001) and FM (β=0.079, p<.001) significantly predicted activity time (R²=0.44). Paretic arm activity amount was highest during dynamic positions (5.6±2.6 min) and standing (5.4±2.7 min), compared with sitting (3.2±2.4 min) and lying (2.2±2.2 min). Self-reported body position (β=7.34, p<.001) and FM (β=1.42, p<.001) predicted intensity (R²=0.30), with lower movement intensity associated with sitting. Both variables also predicted activity amount ratio (R²=0.53) and intensity ratio (R²=0.46) (all p<.001). Higher postural demands were associated with greater paretic arm activity and intensity, suggesting that body position should be considered when assessing arm activity after stroke.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Lynch, Isabella	Rebar, Amanda Burzee, Zachery	The Hidden Curve: How Age and Gender Shape Depression in Veterans View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Mental health disparities among U.S. Veterans remain a significant public health concern. Prior research has documented elevated rates of depression, anxiety, and stress within veteran populations; however, less is known about how these symptoms differ by gender and whether they are moderated by age and branch affiliation. Understanding these patterns is critical for informing prevention and intervention efforts for service members. Objective: Determine whether service-affiliated members differ in overall levels and variation in depression, anxiety, and stress across six weeks, and whether differences vary by sex and/or age. Methods: Participants (N = 99, M age = 59, 36.27% female) self-reported age, gender, and branch affiliation and completed weekly measures of depression, anxiety, and stress. Linear regression analyses tested for gender, age, and gender-by-age effects on overall (intraindividual mean) and variation (interindividual SD) of symptoms, controlling branch affiliation. Results: Depression showed an inverted U-shaped association with age, reflecting between-person differences rather than longitudinal change. Younger adults reported lower depression; midlife participants reported higher depression scores (DASS-21), while older adults reported decreases. The pattern differed by gender. The inverted U-shape was more pronounced for women, with a clearer rise in depression during midlife, while men showed a flatter pattern (age² × gender: β = 0.021, p = .032). No similar curved age effects were found for anxiety or stress. Conclusion: Stress, anxiety, and depression among Veterans remain public health concerns. Mean depression scores vary by age and gender, with women showing greater changes across age than men. These findings highlight the need for age- and gender-informed mental health care to better support vulnerable Veterans.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Havard, Madeyn	Chen, Mengqian Mack, Zachary Ma, Michael Mogila, Vladic	Genotyping and Breeding of an Inducible Double Knockout Mouse Model to Study CDK8/19 Paralog Specificity View Full Text Abstract Text Cyclin-dependent kinases 8 and 19 (CDK8 and CDK19) are paralogous transcriptional regulators critical for tumor growth. While they share overlapping functions, their independent roles in the tumor microenvironment remain unclear. To investigate this, we utilized a tamoxifen-inducible double knockout (idKO) mouse model (Cdk19-/-; Cdk8fl/fl; Rosa26-CreERT2). By crossing this model with wild-type (WT) mice, we are screening the F2 progeny (n=113) to isolate three specific genotypes: (1) Cdk19 knockout with WT Cdk8, (2) WT Cdk19 with inducible Cdk8 knockout, and (3) a Rosa26-CreERT2 control with intact Cdk8/19. Genomic DNA was isolated from ear biopsies and analyzed via a high-throughput PCR and gel electrophoresis pipeline. Each sample was evaluated across four distinct assays to confirm the presence of WT or floxed Cdk8 alleles, the 11bp deletion in Cdk19, and the Rosa26-CreERT2 transgene. To accelerate the generation of these specific cohorts, we implemented an enriched breeding strategy, identifying "near-target" heterozygous mice to establish new mating pairs. This rigorous genotyping process is the essential foundation for our upcoming in vivo studies. By comparing syngeneic tumor growth across these host genotypes, we can distinguish between the redundant and paralog-specific effects of CDK8 and CDK19 within the host environment. These findings will determine whether selective inhibition of a single paralog is sufficient to suppress tumor progression or if dual targeting is required.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Chick, Jayden	Carter, Sarah	Climate Change View Full Text Abstract Text My research will be composed of the negative effects of climate change and the causes of climate change	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Rash, Connor	Carter, Sarah	Mental Health Concerns Within the Furry Community View Full Text Abstract Text The goal of this research project is to gain information from the public stereotype on the furry community. Credible research will be done to gain information on the mental stability of the furry community and if it fits the social stereotypes or if it challenges the public opinion.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Dagenhart, Jacob	Bowes, Devin Braumuller, Kyndall Zellars, Kia King, Cody Spence, Gina	Wastewater-Based Epidemiology to Monitor West Nile Virus and Support Early Detection in South Carolina View Full Text Abstract Text Background West Nile Virus (WNV) is the most common mosquito-borne illness in North and South America. According to the CDC, approximately 2,400 WNV cases are reported per year, with many going unreported. WNV outbreaks are challenging to predict due to ecological and climatic differences across the United States, leading to variable transmission times. For example, the mosquito vector dominant in the Southeastern U.S., Culex quinquefaciatus, has different relationships with weather patterns, animal hosts, and attraction to human blood meals compared to vectors in other regions. Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) offers a minimally invasive strategy for monitoring population-level WNV prevalence, supporting disease prediction, and implementing early warning systems for hotspots and outbreaks. Objective This study aims to demonstrate that WBE can serve as an effective and complementary approach for WNV surveillance and can serve as an early warning system for outbreaks and hotspot detection in Richland County, South Carolina. Methods Untreated, twenty-four-hour wastewater samples will be collected from two sites in Richland County, South Carolina, every other week for 7 months. Samples will undergo viral concentration, RNA isolation, and storage at -80°C until RT-qPCR analysis. Mosquitoes (Culex quinquefaciatus) will also be collected simultaneously at various sites in Richland County using gravid traps baited with grass-infused water. Cx. quinquefaciatus females will be tested using RT-qPCR to detect the WNV E gene, the malathion resistance gene kdr, and the pyrethroid resistance gene. Expected Outcomes and Conclusions We expect that integrating WBE for WNV detection will help establish an early warning system for surveillance in Richland County, SC. The results will inform a comprehensive approach to identify which preventative measures, such as insecticides, will be most effective during high-risk periods.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Auten, Nathaniel	Matta, Fabio Villegas, Laura	Stabilized Earth Masonry as a Sustainable and Resilient Building Material View Full Text Abstract Text This poster presents ongoing research on stabilized earth masonry as an affordable, sustainable, and hazard-resistant material for low-rise building structures. As communities worldwide seek cost-effective and environmentally responsible construction materials, stabilized earth masonry offers a promising and innovative alternative. The research - conducted under the supervision of Ms. Laura Villegas (PhD student) and Dr. Fabio Matta at USC, in collaboration with Dr. Michele Barbato at the University of California, Davis - explores the mechanical and structural behavior of stabilized earth masonry to be used in seismic-resistant dwellings. A key focus of the study involves evaluating the feasibility of using recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers from plastic bottles as a low-cost and structurally efficient replacement for horizontal reinforcement, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) microfibers as earth mortar reinforcement to increase the shear strength and toughness of the mortar joints. Experimental efforts include characterization of earth masonry blocks, mortar, steel rebars (used as vertical reinforcement), and fiber-reinforced specimens to understand material interactions and mechanical properties of each component. This project utilizes an advanced measurement technology developed at USC - Digital Image Correlation, which enables an accurate non-contacting and sensor-free measurement of surface deformations and crack development during testing. The findings of this research will contribute to the body of knowledge that is necessary to support the development of design provisions, making it possible for owners and designers to adopt stabilized earth masonry in hazard-prone regions in the US. By incorporating locally sourced soils and recycled plastic fibers, this earth masonry system enables a reduction in energy demand, transportation needs, construction costs, and environmental impact typically seen in more conventional materials, while ensuring a comparably safe structural performance. Ultimately, this work contributes to the advancement of environmentally friendly, regionally adaptable building systems capable of improving long-term community resilience against seismic events.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Fredrickson, Grace Clifford, Chandler	Osbaldiston, Richard	Reducing PTSD Symptoms Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation View Full Text Abstract Text Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved psychotherapy that involves applying mild magnetic radiation to the pre-frontal cortex of the human brain. It is most commonly used to treat major depression, but is also used for anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and smoking cessation. The goal of this project is to assess the scientific evidence on the effectiveness of TMS for treating posttraumatic stress disorder. To collect the scientific evidence, we used two traditional tools for locating scientific studies (PsycInfo, and Google Scholar) and four new AI-based tools (Semantic Scholar, Consensus, Primo Research Assistant, and Elicit). The data indicates that TMS is a highly effective treatment for PTSD, with most effect sizes (Cohen’s d) greater than 1.00.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Smith, Zoeie	Carter, Sarah	How Educational Philosophies Premeditate Student and Teacher Performance View Full Text Abstract Text The goal of this project is to highlight the explanations of educational philosophies and how certain philosophies can predict on classroom management and student performance. Educational philosophies can be broad, and often misunderstood topics, and it is important to discuss theories surrounding them and how they can develop either positive or negative student-teacher productivity.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Urbina, Sharon Guerrero, Hannah	Fitton, Lisa Briseno, Kimberly	Aligning Parental Concerns with DLD in Bilingual Learners View Full Text Abstract Text Approximately 1 in 14 children in kindergarten are affected by Developmental Language Disorder (DLD). Despite its prevalence, DLD is often under- and over-identified (Tomblin et al., 1997). This is because language difficulties often go unnoticed; many people have never heard of DLD. Further, children with DLD may initially perform within or close to normal limits on academic tasks, including early word reading, with deficits in reading comprehension emerging later in development. Although initial symptoms are typically evident during early childhood, it is important to note that DLD is a lifelong difficulty that can negatively impact educational experiences, opportunities, and quality of life, particularly if left unidentified (Eadie et al., 2018). The difficulties that can arise from DLD are further compounded by the predominance of research focusing on monolingual English-speaking children, resulting in assessment tools and diagnostic criteria that may not adequately account for typical bilingual language development and therefore increase the risk of misidentification, particularly among bilingual students (Adlof, 2020). Given the difficulties of accurately diagnosing DLD, specifically in bilingual children, teacher and parent perspectives may offer critical insights for the referral and diagnostic process. They are often the first to observe language difficulties. The present poster focuses specifically on how parent and teacher concerns during kindergarten and first grade align with DLD diagnoses among a large sample of Spanish-English speaking children (n = 22 with DLD, 172 without DLD). Our analysis explores the relations between parent and teacher concerns and DLD symptoms, a key step in minimizing misdiagnoses and maximizing opportunities for effective intervention.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Robinson, Thomas	Carter, Sarah	Sports Media the everchanging world from gambling to prediction markets View Full Text Abstract Text The world of sports media is forever changing and new threats and people are worried with gambling and prediction markets on the rise. My research seeks to investigate how sports media companies are integrating with these entities and if it is ethical.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Sims, Khloie	Carter, Sarah	Insomnia impact on one's quality of life View Full Text Abstract Text What are the different ways that insomnia can impact ones mental health, physical health, and overall quality of life. What does research say about it, and what are the findings.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Martinez, Karina Milan, Lucia	Fitton, Lisa Worley, Celeste Puzzio, Trevor Navarro, Elianna	Clinical Insights into Parent Engagement and Assessment Practices with Bilingual Children View Full Text Abstract Text Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a common (7-10%) neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in understanding and using language. DLD is often challenging to diagnose bilingual children because of the complexities of multilingual development. Further, in many Hispanic and Latino families, disorders in general may be less frequently discussed or recognized due to cultural perspectives, differences in educational access, and healthcare education, which can lead to concerns about language development being overlooked or dismissed. These misunderstandings contribute to both over- and under-identification of DLD, particularly among families who may be less inclined to advocate when they observe potential concerns. Strengthening parent engagement and culturally responsive assessment practices may be critical to support bilingual children in developing language abilities and improving identification accuracy. The Bilingual Reading Difficulty Identification (BiRDI) Project examines how Spanish-speaking parents describe their children’s language abilities using the Inventory to Assess Language Knowledge (ITALK), a structured parent-report questionnaire that examines skills in both English and Spanish. For this proposed presentation, we compare parent responses to children’s scores on standardized assessments of bilingual vocabulary and morphosyntax. We examine patterns of similarities and differences to understand better how parent overestimation or underestimation may influence referral decisions and service eligibility. Beyond quantitative findings, we integrate applicable literature, our own experiences conducting assessments and communicating with families over the phone, to provide beneficial suggestions for educational professionals in integrating parent perspectives more effectively into assessment practices. By emphasizing family engagement and culturally informed interpretation, assessment practices can better support bilingual children’s language development.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Walton, Hannah Green, Cassidy	Coulombe, Brianne	Positive Parenting and Child Persistence: The Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy View Full Text Abstract Text Positive parenting (i.e., high support, low hostility, low intrusiveness) is related to positive outcomes for children (e.g., emotion regulation, self-esteem, and academic achievement; Planalp et al., 2023; Chen et al., 2019). Specifically, positive parenting supports the development of persistence, the ability to sustain effort despite challenges (Fang et al., 2017. Indeed, Wang and Wang (2023) demonstrated that positive parenting was associated with greater self-efficacy in children aged 10-11, and Lyman and colleagues (1984) found that self-efficacy positively predicted child persistence. Understanding pathways to persistence across the transition to formal schooling is critical as children are expected to engage in tasks that require sustained effort (e.g., learning to read). The present study evaluated a mediation model wherein positive parenting at age 4 was expected to predict child persistence at age 8 via self-efficacy at age 6. Participants were 250 parent-child dyads from an ongoing longitudinal study (50% assigned female at birth; 46% Latine). At age 4, parenting was observed during structured teaching tasks adapted from prior work (Block & Block, 1980). Independent coders evaluated the extent to which the parent demonstrated high levels of warmth and low levels of intrusiveness and hostility. At age 6, teachers rated children’s self-efficacy on a single item ranging from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent). At ages 4 and 8, independent coders evaluated the extent to which children-maintained effort when challenged on teaching tasks (Block & Block, 1980). Descriptive and bivariate statistics are reported in Table 1. Mediation analyses conducted in Hayes’ (2013) PROCESS procedure revealed a significant indirect effect of supportive parenting on persistence via self-efficacy, controlling for child sex, race/ethnicity, and prior persistence (see Table 2). Consistent with Bandura’s (1997) social-cognitive framework, self-efficacy develops through experiences and supportive feedback, underscoring its relevance as a potential intervention target for promoting children’s motivational and persistence-related outcomes.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Petersson, Jonah	Rebar, Amanda Marjan, Nathani Gardner, Benjamin	Title: GLP-1 Medication Use and Habit Formation During a Behavioral Intervention View Full Text Abstract Text Title: GLP-1 Medication Use Does Not Alter Habit Formation During a Behavioral Intervention Co-authors: Jonah, Marjan, Amanda L. Rebar, Benjamin Gardner (University of Surrey) Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists such as Ozempic®, Mounjaro®, and Wegovy® are increasingly prescribed for obesity and metabolic health. However, sustained health outcomes depend on long-term lifestyle habits. A habit is a behavior that comes automatic through repetition, and overtime creates an automated response that is more easily activated by cues. This study examined whether participants taking GLP-1 medications demonstrate different patterns of habit formation over three months compared to non-users within a structured habit-training intervention. The primary research question was: Do GLP-1 users show different trajectories of health habit development and behavioral engagement compared to non-users? Participants enrolled in a structured behavioral program designed to promote habit formation in targeted health behaviors. Measured included validated scales assessing habit automaticity and self-reported weekly frequency of the target behavior. GLP-1 medication use of (e.g. Ozempic®, Mounjaro®, and Wegovy®) was recorded to evaluate whether medication status influenced the development of habit compared to non-users. To evaluate changes over time, we used a statistical model that accounted for repeated measurements within the same individuals which allowed us to track habit growth across baseline and three-monthly follow-ups and test whether GLP-1 use altered those trajectories. Habit training significantly increased habit strength from baseline to all follow-up assessments (ps ≤ .003), with gains maintained across the three-month period. The intervention was associated with a 57-66% increase in weekly behavioral frequency and greater habit strength independently predicted higher behavioral engagement (ps < .001), indicating that stronger automaticity corresponded with more consistent behavior performance. Contrary to our hypothesis, GLP-1 use did not significantly moderate changes in habit strength or behavioral frequency. Habit trajectories were statistically similar between GLP-1 users and non-users.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Vann, Sarah	Pellegrini, Christine Horn, Kailyn	The Impact of Physical Activity on Chronic Disease View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction Most adults after knee replacements are overweight and have low activity levels. It is unknown how activity is affected by medications and other chronic illnesses post-op. This study examined the correlation between physical activity and the number of chronic illnesses and prescription medications in adults with obesity and knee replacement. Methods This study used data from a randomized controlled trial examining a weight loss program in adults after knee replacement. Participants reported medications and diagnosed chronic illnesses, specifically diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, depression, anxiety, kidney disease, and cancer. Moderate-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) was measured using an actigraph accelerometer worn around the waist for 7 days . Spearman’s rank correlations were used to examine the relationship between physical activity and chronic illnesses and medications. Results Participants (n=179, age: 65.95±8.39, BMI: 33.91±4.57, 73.7% White, 68.2% female) engaged in 8.3±11.0 min/week of MVPA and were 80.6±20.6 days post knee replacement. Almost all (94.4%) took medications with many (71.5%) taking three or more and 79.9% reported having at least one chronic illness. More chronic diseases and prescription medications were associated with less MVPA (chronic diseases: r= -0.21, p=0.005; medications: r=-0.30, p<0.001) and steps/day (chronic diseases: r= -0.19, p<0.05; medications: r=-0.20, p<0.01). Discussion Having more chronic diseases and taking more medications is associated with less MVPA and steps/day. Therefore, less MVPA after knee replacement is associated with more chronic illnesses and prescriptions needed. Health care providers may need to also consider comorbidities and medications when recommending physical activity after knee replacement.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Primis, Gavin Craig, Adriana	Wippold, Guillermo Prothro, Kalyn	Bridging the Gap: Community-Informed Approaches to Promote Preventive Health Service Use Among Black Men View Full Text Abstract Text Black men have one of the lowest life expectancies in the United States, with higher rates of adverse health conditions compared to non-Hispanic White men. However, preventative health services (i.e., regular check-ups, early detection) can significantly reduce the risk of premature mortality and adverse health conditions. Despite the importance of preventative health services, Black men are less likely to use services compared to non-Hispanic White men. This suggests that limited engagement stems from a lack of consideration for the unique cultural and contextual factors that influence preventive health service use among Black men. Little guidance exists on how to promote preventive health services to Black men based on their perspectives. This study was conducted using community-based participatory research methods to understand determinants of preventive health service use among Black men. Individual interviews were conducted with 22 Black men in South Carolina (Mage = 49) by a core leadership team consisting of a director of a community organization, an academic researcher, and five Black men within the community. Four major themes emerged: (1) the interplay of mental, physical, and societal factors on the health of Black men; (2) financial, informational, and gender barriers and facilitators to using preventative health services; (3) the importance of shared racial and gender identity during peer health information; and (4) the need for community-centered initiatives. These results demonstrate that there is an urgent need for preventative health services tailored for Black men, who face systemic inequities affecting their overall health, access to care, and engagement with preventative health services. By providing culturally relevant insights, our findings can inform the development of preventative health services aimed at reducing health disparities by increasing engagement among Black men. Future efforts should take a holistic, community-based approach that addresses barriers and facilitators when promoting preventative health service use within this population.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
White, Caitlyn	Pocivavsek, Ana Wilson, Marlene Kaigler, Kris Milosavljevic, Snezana	Individual Differences in Kynurenic Acid After Fear Extinction and Cholinergic Inhibition View Full Text Abstract Text Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is classified by an inability to extinguish fear after experiencing a traumatic event and is comorbid with high rates of sleep disorders. While over half of the population will experience a traumatic stress, only a fraction will develop PTSD, suggesting a neurobiological difference helps determine risk for PTSD. Our lab has found that rats can be divided into extinction resistant (ER) and extinction competent (EC) phenotypes, with ER representing a PTSD-like phenotype. Increased kynurenic acid (KYNA) is caused by tryptophan degradation which contributes to cognitive disruptions as well as sleep loss. Additionally, sleep loss and increased KYNA levels potentially alter cholinergic neurotransmission, which is implicated in fear learning and extinction. This study aimed to understand how the cholinergic system impacts fear extinction and KYNA levels, and how individual differences in KYNA are correlated with fear extinction and recall. Male and female rats were conditioned with three tone-shock pairings and assessed for contextual fear recall one day later. Rats were then given the muscarinic antagonist scopolamine (1 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle (saline) 30 minutes before assessing cued fear recall and extinction learning with 20 tone (cue) presentations. Based on freezing during extinction learning, rats were divided into EC and ER groups. After extinction recall two days later, rats were euthanized and KYNA in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus was assessed. Scopolamine administration decreased freezing during cued fear recall, with a stronger effect in the EC than the ER phenotype. In the hippocampus, KYNA levels were higher in ER rats compared to EC rats (p=0.035), and positively correlated with PFC KYNA levels (p=0.0375). Overall, results show that ER rats had higher KYNA expression compared to their EC counterparts, suggesting that KYNA and the cholinergic system might play a role in individual differences in fear extinction and recall.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Thomas, Tyron	Allen, Emily	Mardi Gras Music History View Full Text Abstract Text The project we are conducting this semester is a look into the history of Mardi Gras music and the societies within the borders of Mobile, Alabama and New Orleans, Louisiana. From parades to brass band groups, the historic celebration has evolved over the centuries while staying accustomed to the holidays traditions. The impact of Mardi Gras culture can be seen its music and its genres that are still present in today's times. With musicians in the last decades keeping afloat the ones that came before them and giving the culture to a new audience.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Striz, Sage	Hollis, Brian	Direct and indirect effects of male exposure on female fitness in Drosophila melanogaster View Full Text Abstract Text Sexual reproduction necessarily requires some degree of cooperation between males and females but can sometimes also be characterized by antagonism that arises from the different fitness interests of the sexes. Previous research has shown conflicting effects, both positive and negative, of elevated male exposure on female Drosophila melanogaster. Most prior research supports negative effects, as increased exposure is believed to lead to male-inflicted damage, increased female energy expenditure, and harmful effects from male seminal proteins. Other work has shown that increased exposure to males can be beneficial due to increases to early life reproductive success. To experimentally test whether the net effect of exposure to males is positive or negative for female fitness, I manipulated male exposure levels of female flies. Female D. melanogaster were exposed either continuously or intermittently to males. Continuously-exposed females spent 4-day cycles with a single male. Intermittently-exposed females only spent the first day of matched 4-day cycles with a male. Males were replaced after each cycle. Cycles were repeated 3 times, and offspring were counted to determine direct fitness effects. I also collected offspring from females to assess indirect fitness effects. Progeny from male and female offspring of the previous maternal generation were used to assess indirect fitness effects of prior male exposure.. Results show a ‘rebounding’ effect in the first generation, as during days in which ‘L’ females are not exposed to a male, they exhibit significantly less offspring production in comparison to ‘H’ females. On days when ‘L’ females are re-exposed to a male at the beginning of a new cycle, they exhibit significantly more offspring production in comparison to ‘H’ females. As for indirect effects, only daughter fitness was affected. The results suggest that females directly benefit from male exposure, although some fitness gains may be lost in subsequent daughter generation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Walsh, Ella	Brown, Michelle Wright, Kira	The Role of Positive Peer Relationships in the Association between Childhood Emotional Maltreatment and Adolescent Internalization View Full Text Abstract Text Childhood maltreatment is a significant predictor for internalizing problems during adolescence, such as depression, anxiety, difficulties in peer relationships, and other mental health issues (Berzenski, 2019). Psychological problems can significantly impair quality of life and day-to-day functioning (Berzenski, 2019). However, recent research suggests that positive peer relationships may be able to act as a moderator on the association between childhood maltreatment and the risk of internalizing problems during adolescence (Silva et al., 2025). Furthermore, emotional maltreatment specifically has not been addressed in this context despite strong associations with internalizing symptoms (Falgares et al, 2024) and lower positive friendship qualities (Zhou et al., 2025). The present study examines the role of positive peer relationships as a buffer for adolescents internalizing their problems and having experienced emotional maltreatment, while controlling for gender and age. As part of a larger longitudinal study, adolescents (N = 86) with and without histories of maltreatment completed an initial in-person visit (T1) and a 6-month follow up (T2). Caregivers reported on adolescents' emotional maltreatment experiences, and adolescents reported closeness with their best friend at T1 and internalizing symptoms at T2. Results showed that emotional maltreatment significantly predicted internalizing symptoms (β = 2.63, p = .030). This effect was moderated by closeness in the friendship (β = -2.59, p = .027), such that the association between maltreatment and internalizing symptoms was weaker among youth reporting a higher level of closeness with their best friend. The final model accounted for approximately 24% of the variance in internalizing symptoms. The findings suggest that positive peer relationships can act as a buffer in the association between emotional maltreatment and internalizing problems during adolescence. This reinforces the importance of developing strong peer support systems to promote adaptive development and mental wellbeing, specifically during critical developmental stages for childhood and adolescence.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Goodwin, Riley	Meekins, Benjamin Shimpalee, Sirivatch Likit-anurak, Kris	Electrochemical Performance Degradation of PBI Membranes Under Accelerated Stress Testing View Full Text Abstract Text Accelerated stress testing (AST) was conducted to evaluate the electrochemical durability of PBI membranes in fuel cells under repeated voltage cycling. Each membrane underwent potential cycling between 0.95 V and 0.60 V, with performance characterization performed after break-in, 10,000, 20,000, and 30,000 cycles. At each interval, polarization (IV) curves, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and electrochemical surface area (ECSA) measurements were collected to assess changes in resistance, catalytic activity, and overall cell performance. EIS analysis showed relatively stable ohmic resistances with variation of less than 10 mΩ for beginning of life (BOL), 10k, 20k, and 30k cycles, indicating minimal bulk resistance degradation over cycling. These resistances were used to correct cell potential and determine the iR-free potential. Polarization curves revealed increased voltage losses at higher current densities after cycling, with performance degradation most evident when comparing BOL to 10k cycles. ECSA measurements demonstrated a progressive decrease in active catalyst area with increasing cycle numbers, with most reduction occurring after 30,000 cycles. Ongoing work focuses on alternate PBI membranes and small potential cycling windows to further evaluate and compare durability trends.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Strickland, Brooklyn Van Cott, Cara	Flory, Kate Levine, Sydney	ADHD Symptoms Predicting Substance Use and Consequences Among College Students: The Role of Self-Esteem as a Moderator View Full Text Abstract Text College students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) face unique academic and social challenges that can significantly influence their self-esteem and social life. ADHD has been found to have an association with low self-esteem across time. In several studies, it has been found that individuals with ADHD have significantly lower self-esteem compared to individuals of the same age without ADHD (Pedersen et al., 2024). Additionally, people with ADHD tend to experience a higher prevalence of comorbidities, such as being more likely to experience substance use disorder than their non-ADHD peers (Van de Glind et al., 2020). While self-esteem has been observed as a moderator in the relation between child abuse and the development of substance use disorder in adults (Sarkar et al., 2024), research on how self-esteem influences the relation between ADHD and substance use/consequences in college students is lacking. Therefore, this study will examine whether self-esteem moderates the relation between ADHD symptoms and substance use outcomes among college aged students. This study will use data collected during Fall 2023 – Spring 2024 from the Undergraduate Learning, Emotion, and Attention Research Network (U-LEARN) study, a multisite study across 7 U.S. universities. Participants (n = 4,766, Mage = 19.45) completed an online survey that included measures of ADHD symptoms, cannabis and alcohol use frequency and consequences, and self-esteem. The proposed study will conduct a moderation analysis to examine the role of self-esteem in the relation between ADHD symptoms and substance use/consequences in college students. We hypothesize that self-esteem will moderate the relation between ADHD symptoms and substance use outcomes, such that the association between ADHD symptoms and substance use will be stronger at lower levels of self-esteem. The findings from this research will be influential for providing guidance for protective factors for individuals with ADHD against other occurring disorders, such as substance use, particularly for college aged students.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Espinosa, Cole Tran, Sarah	Oskeritzian, Carole Madden, Michael	Computational Modeling of Interactions Between Gut Microbial Metabolite Capnine and Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptors 1 and 2 View Full Text Abstract Text The human microbiome is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that inhabit organ systems. These microbes produce bioactive metabolites that can mimic human endogenous bioactive molecules and modulate the host immune system. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is an endogenous sphingolipid (SL) that coordinates immune cell trafficking and activation by binding to a class of G-Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) known as Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptors (S1PRs). Sulfonolipids (SoLs) are bacterial metabolites structurally similar to human SLs, of which capnine strongly resembles S1P. We hypothesized that the structural similarities between capnine and S1P may enable capnine to bind to and activate S1PRs, altering downstream signaling. To explore this, we conducted computational chemical modeling via molecular docking. We used docked S1PR2(Protein Data Bank ID: 7TD3) and S1PR1(Protein Data Bank ID: 7WF7) with capnine (LMSP01080041) and S1P (LMSP0105001) in the Autodock suite, and visualized results with PyMoL. The molecular docking demonstrated that capnine achieved a similar binding configuration and affinity to that of S1P in S1PR2/S1PR1, supporting that capnine may interact with S1PR2/S1PR1. Overall, our molecular docking analysis suggests that microbiome-derived metabolites like capnine may bind to and modulate S1P/S1PR signaling axis.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Singh, Gavriie	Arjmandi, Meisam	Rapid evaluation of cochlear-implant vocoder degradations using synthetic vowels and a machine-learning approach View Full Text Abstract Text Acoustic vocoders are widely used to simulate cochlear-implant (CI) processing, but testing many vocoder settings with human listeners is slow, costly, and variable. This project develops a controlled, vowel-based pipeline that uses a machine-learning classifier as a stand-in for a normal-hearing listener to quantify how CI-like degradations alter vowel identity cues. We will generate a corpus of synthetic vowels representing ten English vowel categories. To capture real-world talker variability, tokens will be sampled from reported vowel formant (F1–F2) distributions and will include male- and female-like pitch ranges. A supervised neural-network classifier will be trained to identify vowel category from unprocessed tokens (80% training, 20% held-out testing), establishing baseline performance. The held-out test vowels will then be processed in batch with an acoustic CI vocoder (AIO vocoder) under three manipulations: reduced neural health (simulated loss or weakening of channels), increased channel interaction (greater overlap between frequency bands), and frequency-to-place mismatch (shifted frequency-to-channel mapping). The trained classifier will be evaluated on four conditions, unprocessed plus the three manipulations, and performance will be summarized as overall percent correct and per-vowel accuracy across conditions. We hypothesize the largest accuracy drop will occur with increased channel interaction, with neural-health and mismatch effects intermediate. This approach provides fast and repeatable metrics that can guide later human-subject studies and help compare vocoder settings relevant to CI processing.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Pierce, Nicole	Walters, Wendell Weatherly, Meghan	Collection of Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) from the Atmosphere for Stable Isotopic Analysis View Full Text Abstract Text Nitrogen oxides (NOx = NO + NO2) are pollutants emitted directly into the atmosphere by combustion reactions from vehicles, industrial processes, and coal/oil plants. They react with volatile organic compounds to create secondary pollutants, like ozone, which contribute to the formation of smog, and cause health problems for the public. Stable isotope analysis has been proven to be a useful tool for source apportionment of NOx. However, the direct collection of NOx without altering the stable isotope composition remains challenging. This project aims to optimize the collection of NOx for stable isotope analysis. Using a 0.25 M potassium permanganate (KMnO4) and 0.5 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH) gas scrubbing solution, NOx was collected in the form of nitrate (NO3-) over a 24-hour period. By positioning a nylon filter upstream and a PTFE filter downstream of the bubbler, particulates were prevented from entering the solution, and the pump was protected from solution back flow. To maximize the amount of solution recovered, variable air flow rates (1LPM, 2 LPM, 3 LPM) and two types of bubbler inlets (fritted disc sparger and perforated sparger tube) were tested. It was found that the perforated sparger tube and a flow rate of 2 LPM provided the greatest amount of recovered solution (61% ± 1.41%; n=2). Future work will aim to quantify the matrix NO3- blank as well as evaluate other NOx collection techniques that do not require an absorption solution. The nitrogen stable isotope composition (δ15N) of NOx in ambient air will be used to identify NOx sources contributing to pollution in Columbia, SC. By optimizing the collection of NOx, the data obtained will be more accurate and reliable, improving air quality measures that aim to track the content of δ15N in the atmosphere.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Chappell, Lauren	Shazly, Tarek Boltin, Nicholas Argentine, Ethan Kibler, Christopher	Thermal Signatures of Induced Pulsatile Flow in Artificial and Porcine Carotid Arteries View Full Text Abstract Text Thermal imaging is a promising tool in the field of diagnostic healthcare due to its ability to perform contactless surface temperature measurements. Infrared (IR) imaging has high spatial precision and may enable physicians and military operations to non-invasively monitor heart rate and hemodynamic activity. Carotid arteries are vessels of interest due to their proximity to the skin’s surface, making them easily accessible targets for IR imaging to detect subtle skin temperature fluctuations associated with blood flow. This study investigated the thermal signatures of four artificial carotid artery models and three carotid porcine arteries using a FLIR A700 IR camera. Artificial vessels were 3-D printed using Formlabs Elastic 50A V2 resin. Vessels were mounted to a closed flow loop system including a pulsatile pump, catheter-based pressure transducer, and blood-mimicking fluid. Fluid flow parameters were systematically varied to biologically relevant flow rates, mean pressures, pulse pressures, and pulse frequencies. Thermal data were extracted using 4 regions of interest (ROIs) spanning the vessel surface and vessel-air interface. Porcine vessels went through validation testing comparing fresh and fixed tissue, ensuring fixation does not alter the thermal response. In artificial models, strong correlations were observed between flow rate and mean surface temperature (R2 = 0.9977, p=0.0012), mean pressure and mean surface temperature (R2 = 0.9519, p=0.0243), and pulse pressure magnitude and mean surface temperature (R2 = 0.9835, p=0.0083). Frequency-domain analysis using Fast Fourier transform (FFT) validated a strong linear relationship between the imposed pulse frequency and interfacial temperature frequency (R2 = 0.9995, p=0.0003), demonstrating that IR imaging can accurately track dynamic pulsatile behavior. These findings demonstrate that thermal imaging can reliably detect flow and pressure dependent changes in both artificial and porcine models, highlighting its potential for non-contact vascular monitoring.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Callahan, Finleigh	Hosseini, Seyyedamirhossein LeBarron, Christopher	Effect of Experimental Reaction Conditions On Dimerization Rate of Nickel(II) Salen Electrocatalyst View Full Text Abstract Text Reaction conditions such as solvent-supporting electrolyte (SSE) play a significant role in influencing electro-organic reaction pathways and thus product distribution. However, there exists a distinct lack of detailed study into the nature and trends of such contributions due to the absence of a multicomponent platform for such analysis through the extraction of elementary reactions steps to evaluate the reaction pathway and corresponding reaction rates. Herein, we report the development of an electroanalytical method based on cyclic voltammetry (CV), numerical simulation using DigiElch, and electrolysis supported by gas chromatography thermal conductivity detection (GC-TCD) to investigate the role of SSE and solvent in the dimerization rate of nickel(II) salen and subsequent electrocatalytic performance. By simulating the CV current response of nickel(II) salen, a pervasive error in the anodic peak height was determined to be a previously unreported dimerization process of two electrogenerated nickel(I) salen complexes. By adjusting the simulation parameters to maximize agreement with experimental results, the dimerization rate can be quantified for various reaction conditions.This dimerization rate was found to shift according to SSE and solvent identity, allowing for precise control over the dimerization reaction. The importance of controlling this dimerization can be observed in the established model system of electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) via nickel(II) salen electrocatalyst. Through this cycle, electrogenerated nickel(I) salen is protonated by hexafluoro-2-proponol (HFIP) in organic solvent. Two protonated nickel complexes then perform a hydrogen atom transfer to produce H2 gas and two nickel(II) salen. Higher dimerization rates correlate with more pronounced indicators of electrocatalysis with the same reagent concentrations. Constant potential electrolysis was performed using various reaction conditions to produce detectible quantities of H2 gas, further supporting this conclusion.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Jiang, Xiangxiang	Lu, Kevin	Investigating Racial and Ethnic Bias in Risk Prediction of Colorectal Cancer Using Machine Learning Approaches View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality in the United States, with persistent disparities across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. While machine learning (ML) models have shown promise in risk prediction, limited research has examined whether these algorithms perform equitably across diverse populations. Objectives: This study aimed to (1) develop ML algorithms to predict CRC risk among older U.S. adults and (2) evaluate potential racial and ethnic disparities in predictive performance. Methods: We used data from the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey linked with Medicare claims, incorporating more than 70 candidate predictors across biological, behavioral, sociocultural, and environmental domains guided by the National Institute on Aging Health Disparities Research Framework. Support Vector Machines (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) models were developed using a training-validation framework. Model performance was assessed using accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and F1 score. Racial and ethnic bias was evaluated by comparing predictive performance metrics across groups and calculating differences between the best- and worst-performing subgroups. Decision curve analysis (DCA) examined potential clinical utility. Results: Preliminary analyses suggest good predictive performance across ML models, with RF demonstrating the highest overall accuracy. However, performance varied across racial and ethnic groups, indicating potential disparities in sensitivity and specificity. Recursive Feature Elimination identified comorbidity burden, diabetes, sociodemographic factors, and geographic characteristics as influential predictors. Conclusions: ML algorithms can effectively predict CRC risk among older adults, yet differences in performance across racial and ethnic groups highlight the need for careful evaluation of algorithmic fairness. These findings support ongoing efforts to refine prediction models and mitigate bias to ensure equitable implementation in diverse populations.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Arnold, John	Riccardi, Nicholas Newman-Norlund, Sarah Fridriksson, Julius Bonilha, Leonardo	Vascular Stiffness, Regional White Matter Hyperintensities, and Brain Age Across the Adult Lifespan View Full Text Abstract Text Central arterial stiffness increases with age and transmits excessive pulsatile pressure into the brain microvasculature, contributing to cerebral small vessel disease and cognitive decline. White matter hyperintensities (WMH), visible on T2 FLAIR MRI, are a hallmark of small vessel disease but are not uniformly distributed. Periventricular WMH may reflect vulnerability to reduced perfusion and impaired clearance, whereas deep WMH may reflect focal arteriolar pathology. In parallel, MRI derived brain age estimates how old a brain appears relative to chronological age, with older appearing regions indicating accelerated brain aging. This study integrates carotid femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV), a gold standard measure of central arterial stiffness, with regional WMH burden and regional brain age in 100 adults aged 65 to 85 from the Aging Brain Cohort. WMH will be segmented into periventricular and deep compartments using TrUE Net, and regional brain age gaps will be derived from volBrain across cortical regions. Linear regression and mediation models will test whether PWV preferentially relates to periventricular WMH, whether WMH subtype aligns with older appearing frontoparietal brain age and poorer executive function, and whether periventricular WMH statistically mediates the association between PWV and regional brain age gap. By combining vascular stiffness, spatially resolved white matter injury, and regional brain aging, this project moves beyond global burden models to clarify mechanisms linking vascular aging to cognitive decline and may refine risk stratification beyond brachial cuff measures while identifying more precise targets for preserving brain health in older adulthood.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Joseph, Faye	Green, Jessica	Investigating the Effects of Reward Magnitude on Spatial Sound Processing View Full Text Abstract Text Localizing sounds in space is difficult in vision-restricted contexts; however, research in the fields of motivation and attention may offer insight into improving spatial sound processing. In previous work, we examined whether reward-associated hemifields of horizontal space influenced sound localization performance. In these studies, a reward (i.e., 5 points) was earned for each correct localization made in the rewarded hemifield, with no reward earned for the other hemifield. Participants believed their goal was to earn as many points as possible to be placed on a counterfeit leaderboard. Consistent results revealed that reward-associated hemifields of space improved performance across a variety of behavioral measures, likely through reward associations allocating increased attentional resources. However, it remains unclear whether reward effects on spatial sound processing operate in a binary manner (reward vs. no reward) or scale as a function of reward magnitude. Existing research on reward magnitude and sound processing has shown that larger rewards elicit enhanced behavioral performance. The current study aims to investigate whether larger rewards similarly result in further improvements of sound localization. By extending our previous paradigm, we will manipulate reward across two hemifields of space, presenting a combination of no reward (0 points), low reward (1 point), and high reward (10 points). We hypothesize that sound localization performance will increase with reward magnitude, such that sounds projected from high-reward-associated hemifields will yield the greatest behavioral performance. This work will help refine theoretical models of value-drive attention allocation and inform strategies for improving auditory spatial performance in vision-restricted environments.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Reed, Katherine	Arjmandi, Meisam Farrar, Reed Ashjaei, Samin Marlowe, Madeline	Cortical Responses to Vocoded Naturalistic Speech in Simulated Cochlear Implant Listening View Full Text Abstract Text Cochlear implants are neuroprosthetic devices that provide individuals with severe-to-profound hearing loss access to sound by directly stimulating the auditory nerve and bypassing damaged cochlear hair cells. While cochlear implants can significantly improve speech perception for many users, there is high variability in outcomes across recipients. Some individuals are able to understand speech at a level similar to those with typical hearing. While others continue to experience difficulties, especially in environments with background noise, such as restaurants. Understanding the neural mechanisms that drive this variability is a major focus in auditory neuroscience research. To investigate contributors to outcome variability, our lab uses vocoded speech to simulate cochlear implant processing in normal-hearing participants while measuring cortical activation with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), a neuroimaging device that measures changes in oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin as an index of neural activity. In a previous experiment, participants completed a vowel identification task in quiet and noise under varying levels of spectral degradation. While this study design allowed us to tightly control specific acoustic features of the stimuli, the stimuli were brief, limiting our ability to examine sustained neural processing. Because real-world listening involves continuous, meaningful speech rather than isolated phonemes, we developed a storytelling design using segmented children’s stories presented in varying vocoded conditions, in noise and quiet. This design more closely reflects real-world listening by creating an environment where sustained auditory processing under spectrally degraded conditions is necessary. By examining cortical responses during naturalistic speech processing, this work represents a critical step toward identifying neural markers that may help explain individual differences in cochlear implant success and ultimately inform more personalized intervention strategies.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Henderson, Emily	Fillo, Jennifer	Resilience as a Moderating Factor of Adverse Health Outcomes after Childhood Adversity in Military Populations View Full Text Abstract Text Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)—experiencing or witnessing abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction before age 18—are linked to poorer overall health, functioning, and quality of life in adulthood. Moderating factors, such as dispositional resilience, can buffer the impact of early adversity by influencing how individuals cope and seek support. US military service members are nearly twice as likely as civilians to have experienced ACEs. However, there is little research examining ACEs in this population, despite them experiencing unique stressors (e.g., combat exposure, frequent relocations) that may interact with early adversity in distinct ways. This study addresses the gap in the literature by examining (1) relations between ACEs and health-related quality of life in adulthood, and (2) the potential protective role of dispositional resilience to moderate these effects, among a sample of US military service members. Data were drawn from a study of US Army Reserve/National Guard service members (N=822). ACEs measures assessed childhood physical abuse, verbal abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and witnessing abuse of others. The health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measure included both physical and mental health functioning. Regression models examined the main and interactive effects of ACEs types and dispositional resilience predicting HRQoL, controlling for sex and age. Approximately 13% of participants reported experiencing some form of physical or sexual abuse. Psychological abuse was the most common type reported, followed by physical abuse, neglect, and witnessing abuse of others in the household. Regression analyses are ongoing and will be reported in the final presentation. Findings will reveal the relative impact of specific types of ACEs on service members’ quality of life, as well as how dispositional resilience may mitigate these negative effects. Taken together, results will provide information essential for developing targeted behavioral health interventions and supporting the well‑being of service members.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Owojori, Grace	Bowes, Devin	EVALUATING COOCCURRENCE OF HEAVY METALS AND ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE IN SURFACE WATERS: A COMPARATIVE SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF LOW AND HIGH RESOURCE SETTINGS View Full Text Abstract Text Background Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant global health threat, driven by both clinical and environmental factors. Heavy metals like copper, zinc, and lead are widespread contaminants that can coselect for antimicrobial resistance through shared genetic and physiological mechanisms. Surface waters receiving municipal and industrial discharge may serve as hotspots where heavy metals and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) cooccur. However, evidence linking heavy metal contamination to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in surface waters remains fragmented and has not been systematically synthesized across low and high resource settings. Objective This systematic review assesses co-occurrence patterns between heavy metals and antibiotic resistance genes in surface waters, comparing findings from Nigeria (low resource setting) and the United States (high resource setting). Methods This review follows PRISMA 2020 guidelines, searching PubMed and Web of Science using predefined strategies combining terms related to heavy metals, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), surface waters, Nigeria, and the United States. Eligible studies include peer reviewed primary research reporting quantitative detection of heavy metals alongside antibiotic resistance, as well as studies reporting statistical associations between concentration of heavy metal and antimicrobial resistance. Data extraction includes study design, geographic location, heavy metal type and concentration, AMR, and reported associations. Study quality and risk of bias are assessed using standardized appraisal tools. Findings will be synthesized narratively and organized by heavy metal type and AMR indicators. Anticipated Outcomes The review is expected to identify heavy metals cooccurring with antimicrobial resistance, compare detection patterns between Nigeria and the United States, and highlight methodological differences and knowledge gaps. Conclusion Antimicrobial resistance is a growing public health issue, and understanding coselection factors such as heavy metal contamination is important for strengthening prevention and control efforts. Identifying heavy metal and antimicrobial resistance cooccurrence patterns in surface waters is essential for anticipating and mitigating resistance across diverse resource settings.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Zottoli, Victoria	Pena, Maria Marjorette Mao, Choi	Perinatal Exposure to Antibiotics and Increased Risk for Developing Early Onset Colorectal Cancer View Full Text Abstract Text Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. CRC accounts for ~7.6% of all new cancer cases, with an estimated 154,270 new diagnoses in the United States in 2025. Of these, 17% were classified as early-onset (EOCRC), which occurs in individuals under the age of 50. Although CRC in individuals aged 50 and over have declined due to better health practices and early screening, the causes of the rising CRC in younger individuals is poorly understood. We proposed that EOCRC is caused by exposure to exposomes, the totality of all external and internal factors that impact an individual’s health over their lifetime.Based on what is known about EOCRC, we developed criteria to identify exposomes that may cause an increase in EOCRC; among these are antibiotics. Antibiotics are irreplaceable in the treatment of infectious diseases. However, their overuse has become a public health concern. While effective in killing pathogenic bacteria, they also kill the bacteria in the gut that are essential for health and proper immune system development. We hypothesize that antibiotics cause gut dysbiosis that leads to inflammation that can increase the risk of developing EOCRC. We are interested in the impact of beta lactams (amoxicillin) and macrolides (azithromycin), the most widely used and prescribed antibiotics, on EOCRC development. We further hypothesize that there are developmental windows of susceptibility (DWOS) in life when exposure to antibiotics renders the distal colon susceptible to EOCRC. We defined five DWOS: prenatal, perinatal (infancy), pre-puberty, puberty, and adult. Using a mouse model of EOCRC, my studies tested the impact of perinatal exposure to antibiotics on risk of developing EOCRC. The results showed that perinatal exposure significantly increased EOCRC development. The results can lead to novel strategies to identify those at risk and minimize EOCRC.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Johnson, Tammy Mason, Amelia	Osbaldiston, Richard	Less Than You Would Think: The Relationship Between Childhood Media Use and ADHD View Full Text Abstract Text This project has two goals. The first goal is to answer the research question “Is childhood media exposure related to ADHD?” The second goal was to compare new AI research tools to more traditional measures. We entered keywords into traditional research tools (PsycInfo database, Google Scholar) and natural language research questions into AI research tools (Semantic Scholar, Consensus, Primo Research Assistant, and Elicit). We compared the studies lists generated by these 6 services to determine which was locating the most relevant and useful studies. Then we did an assessment of the studies found to answer the research question. Although the relationship between childhood media use and ADHD is quite complex, our study indicates that the effect sizes are small, in the range of r = .10.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
McCormack, Kelly	Alberg, Anthony	A Framework for Assessing Time Lags in Translational Science View Full Text Abstract Text A key goal of translational science is for high quality research to progress toward benefiting human health as efficiently as possible. Barriers that impede efficiency in translational science have been referred to by terms such as time lags, roadblocks, and “valleys of death.” Many barriers have been previously identified, but they have not been organized into an overarching framework that highlights where in the translational science continuum specific barriers come into play. In this research, we integrate previously identified translational science barriers and organize them into a unified framework. Our proposed framework includes macro-level factors related to the overall research environment, institutional-level factors, and study-specific factors. Macro-level factors include funding availability (e.g., NIH budget cuts) and low-quality and fraudulent research. Institutional-level barriers relate to inefficiencies in an institution’s research infrastructure such as lack of administrative support and IRB review inefficiencies. Study-specific barriers include barriers to implementation (e.g., low participant accrual) and barriers to publication (e.g., statistical significance and funding source). When we layer in the translational science continuum, additional elements in our framework include delays in knowledge synthesis/regulatory approval and barriers to implementation and dissemination. This framework draws attention to where in the research process potential areas of delay occur. The goal of translational science is to streamline the research process. A framework to conceptualize the potential inefficiencies that can hinder progress in translational research may strengthen the foundation for overcoming them.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hauck, Bethany	Colebank, Mitchel	Computational Modeling of Cerebral Vasoconstriction and Cerebral Hemodynamics View Full Text Abstract Text Cerebral blood flow is precisely controlled to ensure sufficient oxygen and nutrient delivery to brain tissue. Alterations in vessel diameter, particularly narrowing of small cerebral vessels, can significantly affect pressure and flow patterns throughout the cerebral circulation. Microvascular abnormalities and reduced cerebral perfusion have also been linked to neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, where vascular contributions to cognitive decline are increasingly recognized. This project uses medical imaging data to construct anatomically realistic vascular geometries for modeling and simulation. Computational fluid dynamics simulations are performed using custom MATLAB solvers to model physiologically relevant blood flow behavior within the cerebral vasculature. The model simulates blood flow in the axial direction only, allowing us to predict hemodynamics in multiple vessels. Our study simulates vasoconstriction within individual vascular beds of the brain (e.g., those attached to the left internal carotid artery), allowing for controlled analysis of localized changes in flow rate, pressure gradients, and wall shear stress resulting from progressive reductions in vessel diameter. We find that blood flow is redirected away from zones of vasoconstriction. We extended our analysis to investigate the combined effects of vasoconstriction across multiple parts of the cerebral circulation. This approach enables comparison between single-region and multi-region constriction to determine whether hemodynamic responses are additive, compensatory, or nonlinear in nature. By integrating medical imaging and computational modeling, this research aims to improve understanding of how small-vessel vasoconstriction alters cerebral hemodynamics. The findings may provide insight into vascular mechanisms that contribute to neurodegenerative disease and support the development of more accurate predictive models of cerebrovascular regulation in both healthy and pathological conditions.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Ford-Campbell, Jo'Marion	Bakos, Jason	Resource-Constrained Autonomous Micro Quadcopter: Fully Custom Single-Board ESP32-S3 Flight Control with 9-Sensor ToF Ring View Full Text Abstract Text This research investigates whether a fully autonomous indoor micro quadcopter can achieve real-time 360° obstacle avoidance and stable altitude hold using only a single ESP32-S3 microcontroller as the flight controller, under extreme resource constraints (size, weight, power, and cost). The project develops a fully open-source, from-scratch single-board design that integrates all power regulation, sensing, and control onto one compact PCB, eliminating external flight controllers and high-end hardware. The core architecture features a TPSM84209RKHR power module for efficient 3.3 V conversion from a 2S LiPo battery, an ICM-20948 9-axis IMU for attitude estimation, and nine VL53L1X Time-of-Flight sensors (eight in a 360° ring plus one downward) mounted directly in a lightweight PETG 3D-printed chassis and interfaced via 1×4 headers. A TCA9548A I2C multiplexer enables all sensors to share a single bus without address conflicts, while native USB provides direct programming capability. All flight control—including PID stabilization, sensor fusion, obstacle avoidance logic, and altitude hold—is implemented from scratch on the ESP32-S3with significant CPU headroom. By pushing a single low-cost microcontroller to perform complex autonomy tasks traditionally requiring dedicated flight controllers, this work demonstrates the minimum hardware required for reliable indoor navigation on sub-$30 commodity components. The open-source platform serves as a reproducible foundation for studying minimalist embedded systems, real-time localization, and sensor fusion under severe constraints.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Poston, Cooper	Edwards, Kay	The "Swamp Gas" Moment: The 1966 Michigan UFO Sightings and the Cold War Culture of Anxiety View Full Text Abstract Text This research examines the 1966 Michigan UFO sightings to analyze the cultural and psychological history of the Cold War in the United States. Starting out as reports of unexplained lights in the skies over multiple towns in rural Michigan, the incident quickly evolved from a local mystery into a national media episode involving scientists, the United States Military, and the United States Congress. Using newspaper coverage, press releases, television interviews, and government records, the presentation argues that these Michigan sightings were more than a small incident in the broad analects of UFO folklore. Instead, they reflected deeper Cold War anxieties surrounding aerial defense, technological uncertainty, and public trust in scientific and governmental authority. Eyewitness testimonies, police interviews, and increasingly sensational media coverage turned individual reports into a national story. As newspapers and wire services amplified the event, public intrigue over the Michigan sightings began combining with fears shaped by new technologies and the possibility of nuclear war. Scientific attempts to explain the sightings, like the “swamp gas” explanation, failed to reassure the public, and they only intensified skepticism toward institutions. This growing uncertainty prompted elected officials to intervene, culminating in congressional hearings initiated by then-Congressman Gerald R. Ford. By placing the 1966 Michigan UFO sightings within the broader context of the Cold War, this paper demonstrates how unexplained aerial phenomena became projections of national insecurity. The Michigan sightings reveal an anxious society grappling not only with mysterious lights, but also with deeper questions about government authority, national security, and the limits of scientific knowledge. Above all, this presentation shows how UFO sightings ultimately reveal more about ourselves than they might about anything beyond Earth.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Tilwani, Deepa	O'Reilly, Christian Shinkareva, Svetlana Yang, Xuan	Analyzing EEG Spectral Encoding of Affective States Using Mixed-Effects Modelling View Full Text Abstract Text Naturalistic electroencephalography (EEG) offers a route to tracking affect as it unfolds in real time, but extracting reliable signatures is difficult because emotion-related effects are subtle relative to large inter-individual differences. Using the Aging Brain Cohort (ABC@USC) dataset, we tested whether frequency-specific scalp power encodes moment-to-moment fluctuations in hedonic valence (emotional pleasantness, positive–negative) and arousal (emotional intensity, low–high) during continuous narrative listening, and whether these relationships vary with age and sex. One hundred eighty participants listened to six-minute narratives while an EEG was recorded. Each of the 35 stories was segmented into short contiguous intervals (96.66 ± 18.76 segments per story; ≈3.7 s each). Segment-level power spectral density (5–100 Hz) was computed, and estimated values were averaged within canonical frequency bands (theta: 4–7 Hz, alpha: 8–12 Hz, beta: 13–30 Hz, gamma: 31–58 Hz). To separate within-subject affective variation from between-subject and stimulus-related structure, we fit a single linear mixed-effects model at each electrode and frequency band with subject random intercepts and crossed random effects for story and story×segment, modeling interactions among affect and demographics (EEG band∼valence∗age∗sex  +  arousal∗age∗sex). After false discovery rate correction across electrodes within each band and term, the Age × Arousal × Sex interaction remained the most robust effect in beta and gamma, indicating that arousal-related spectral EEG modulation varies with age differently for males versus females. Valence-related interactions were comparatively sparse and near chance-level across bands, with only modest Sex × Valence effects primarily in gamma. Together, these results show that naturalistic EEG contains frequency-dependent signatures of arousal that are moderated by age and sex, and that mixed-effects spectral modeling can recover these effects despite substantial individual variability. Future work will integrate evidence of the nonlinear age effect on valence and arousal.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
DIdugu, Krishna	Myrick, Michael	Spectroscopic Characterization of Pigments in Microseira wollei View Full Text Abstract Text Microseria wollei, formerly known as Lyngbya wollei , is a benthic, filamentous cyanobacteria commonly found across the southeast United States. This organism is known to produce toxins at times, but little is known of the conditions that lead to toxin production. In this poster I will present work to characterize the pigments present in M. wollei as part of a larger study characterizing cellular heterogeneity in strands of the organism. It is hoped that a correlation can be found between cells that produce toxins and the production and concentration of specific pigments or groups of pigments. In this work, pigments were extracted from disrupted cells and were separated using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with spectroscopic detection. In addition to fluorescence emission measurements, absorption measurements were collected for all pigments as they were eluted during HPLC. The spectral data enable us to identify major and minor pigments that vary within single strands of M. wollei in cell-to-cell measurements. These include a variety of chlorophylls, carotenoids and xanthophylls that give M. wollei its observable color.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Withers, Hayden	Grillo, Claudia	Effect of Ginseng on obesity and neurogenesis. View Full Text Abstract Text Obesity is becoming a strikingly more present problem as decades are passing. Obesity, which is the accumulation of unhealthy fat levels, comes with a large number of adverse side effects, including cancer, heart disease, hypertension and neuropsychiatric disorders. One of the most notable facts is the bidirectional link between obesity and depression. These conditions both are associated with a variety of biological mechanisms, including energy metabolism and immune activation. One of the lesser-studied areas is the impact that obesity and depression have on neurogenesis, the process for which new neurons are generated within the brain. This project will study hippocampal neurogenesis in a rat model of obesity-induced depressive-like behavior and, specifically whether or not Panax ginseng can restore the formation of new neurons within the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. The rats were divided into four experimental groups: (1) control diet + vehicle, (2) control diet + ginseng, (3) high-fat diet (HFP) + vehicle, and (4) HFD + Ginseng. In order to determine the presence of newly formed neurons, I performed immunohistochemistry (IHC) for doublecortin (DXC), a microtubule-associated protein that is expressed in immature neurons within the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Once I completed the IHC for the DCX, I determined the number of immature neurons in the 4 experimental groups, and I also analyzed the morphology of these neurons with the Neurolucida software. This software allows a quantitative analysis of the neurons including process length, soma size, surface area, and branching complexity. By analyzing the immature neurons within the dentate gyrus, my research will allow for a broader understanding of Ginseng’s role within obesity-induced depression to be identified. With a future goal in mind, this study is a stepping stone to using Ginseng as a potential treatment for obesity-related neuropsychiatric disorders.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Simpkins, Taylor	Vick, Lori	Suffocating Inequities: Assessing the Impact of Air Quality on Individuals With Sickle Cell Disease View Full Text Abstract Text This project involves identifying individuals at risk of experiencing complications from sickle cell disease (SCD) related to air pollution. The study further considered the socio-economic inequalities associated with air pollution. Individuals with SCD experience different severity and frequency of complications. Identifying the underlying causes of these differences could help to mitigate complications. This pilot study involved adults with SCD who completed a cross-sectional survey, including the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire, Dr. Jenerette’s Demographic Survey, environmental and health questions, and the Adult Sickle Cell Quality of Life Measurement System 14-Item survey (ASCQ-Me). To assess household behaviors affecting indoor air quality four weekly activity logs were collected for one month. Outdoor air quality index (AQI) data from AirNow.gov was gathered from each participants’ location. A 12-question interview explored perceptions of air quality and the impact of social determinants of health on the home environment. Among ten participants, housing related factors aligned with more complications from SCD. Participants reporting more ventilation problems had more hospitalizations from SCD (M=4.0) compared to no reported ventilation problems (M=1.5). Less frequent air filter replacement corresponded with more hospitalizations (M=3.5) compared to participants who replaced filters more often (M=1.75). Interviews revealed themes of financial burden limiting access to improving indoor air quality. Participants rely on health care providers for air quality information but had limited awareness of formal air quality resources. This study provided insights to help individuals with SCD to make informed decisions and take control of their health. Assessing individuals with SCD to identify those most at risk of complications from indoor and outdoor air pollution will help determine factors relevant to health exacerbations. This study of air pollution and its effects contributes to health promotion science by identifying household and lifestyle factors that may negatively impact health.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Richards, Jackson	Sherman, Brett	The Normativity of Inquiry and Questioning View Full Text Abstract Text The relation between inquiry and questioning has received much attention recently. Specifically, many attempts have been made to codify norms that govern our inquiry in relation to questions. Such norms purport to tell inquirers when it is permissible and impermissible to inquire into a given question. However, it is my opinion that these attempts have failed. In this presentation, I will begin by analyzing some of the most influential norms in this domain and explaining why I believe they fail to give a satisfying account of inquiry and its norms. Then, having made my negative case against popular norms of inquiry, I will offer and make a positive case for what I believe to be a more satisfying account of inquiry, questioning, and the norms that govern them.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Wiggins, J'nea	Armstrong, Alissa	Investigating Amino Acid Transporters Clumsy and CG4476 role on Egg Production in Drosophila Melanogaster View Full Text Abstract Text Amino acid transporters (AATs) are essential for regulating cellular nutrient sensing, protein synthesis, cell signaling, and inter-organ communication. These processes are critical for maintaining normal physiology, and disruptions can contribute to pathophysiological conditions, including metabolic disorders. Chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity affect a significant portion of the adult population, making it crucial to understand how AATs function at the molecular level. Drosophila melanogaster, due to its genetic similarities to humans, provides an ideal model to investigate the tissue-specific roles of AATs in nutrient sensing. Previous studies have demonstrated that AATs such as Jhl-21 and mnd, orthologs of the human SLC7A5 transporter, are expressed across multiple tissues, including the head, thorax, abdomen, gut, and ovaries. In contrast, other transporters, such as CG4991 and NAAT1, exhibit more selective expression patterns. This project aims to understand the impact of the amino acid transporters Clumsy and CG4476 on egg production and ovary morphology. A second objective is to examine how the expression of these transporters changes under different dietary conditions. The first aim is addressed by generating genetic crosses to knock down the transporters specifically in nervous tissue throughout the body. Egg-laying assays are used to quantify reproductive output, and immunofluorescence microscopy is performed to analyze ovary morphology. The second aim is explored by collecting virgin flies from a wild-type line and rearing them on control, high-protein, and high-sugar diets. Quantitative RT-PCR is then used to measure changes in transporter expression in the head, thorax, gut, ovaries, and testes. The results of this work will provide insight into molecular mechanisms of differential tissue amino acid sensing.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Alameri, Mustafa	Hosseini, Amir -, Pavithra	Alternative Pulsed-Potential Electrodeposition of RuO2 Nanoparticles View Full Text Abstract Text Metal oxide nanoparticles (1-100 nm) exhibit size-dependent properties useful for electrochemical energy technologies. Ruthenium oxide (RuO2) is promising because of its high electrical conductivity, reversible redox behavior, and strong electrocatalytic activity. However, RuO2 performance depends strongly on nanoparticle size, dispersion, and interfacial contact with the electrode. Many chemical syntheses require high-temperature steps and stabilizers, which can limit nanoscale uniformity and substrate selection whereas electrodeposition enables direct growth on substrate, but common steady-state methods (cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, galvanostatic deposition) often provide limited control over size distributions. Here we report an alternative pulsed-potential (APP) electrodeposition strategy for producing highly monodisperse RuO2 nanoparticles (NPs) on glassy carbon electrodes. APP alternates cathodic and anodic pulses to introduce deposition and relaxation periods that tune the size and dispersion of RuO2 NPs. By systematically varying anodic and cathodic potentials, pulse time, total deposition time, and Ru precursor concentration, we establish parameter regimes that control nucleation, growth, oxidation state, and the transition between nanoparticle formation and film growth. Scanning electron microscopy quantifies changes in particle size and dispersity, and the observed trends are discussed with respect to APP parameters. High-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy collected on Au substrates confirms formation of hydrous RuO2 at 1.0 V vs Ag/AgCl. Electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction activity of RuO2-modified glassy carbon was evaluated in acidic 0.1 M Na2SO4 (pH 2.5). RuO2 with an average particle size of 60-100 nm achieved lower Tafel slope (⁓50 mV dec-1), and smaller nanoparticles showed higher activity when normalized to electrochemically active surface area. Overall, APP provides a rational framework for designing efficient, size-controlled metal oxide electrocatalysts.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bowen, Addison	Walters, Wendell	Concentration of Nitrate for Isotopic Analysis using Solid-Phase Extraction View Full Text Abstract Text Atmospheric nitrate ( NO3-) can negatively affect air quality and human health. The stable isotopes of oxygen (δ18O and Δ17O) and nitrogen (δ15N) have been useful in studying the sources and formation chemistry of atmospheric NO3-. The isotopic analysis of NO₃⁻ typically requires a minimum of 100 nmol contained within 5 mL of solution for accurate Δ17O quantification, which is difficult to achieve for atmospheric samples and often requires preconcentration before analysis. Previously, we evaluated several NO3- concentration techniques and found that solid phase extraction using anion exchange resins was the optimal way to concentrate NO3- without altering isotope compositions. Here, we aim to optimize the solid-phase extraction technique with a focus on characterizing counter ions used to extract NO3- from the resins, including potassium iodide (KI), sodium citrate (Na₃C₆H₅O₇), sodium salicylate (C7H5NaO3), sodium chloride (NaCl) and sodium bromide (NaBr). We focus on determining the optimal extraction counterion based on NO3- extraction efficiency, elution volume, and compatibility with our downstream analysis using denitrifying bacteria for the conversion of NO3- to N2O for isotope ratio measurement. Our results indicate that all tested counterions were compatible with our downstream analysis except for C7H5NaO3 which limit NO3- conversion to N2O using denitrifying bacteria. Preliminary results for sodium citrate, have been most promising as it has a low blank, compatible with the bacteria and only needed 1 mL of 1 M solution to completely extract NO3- from the resins. Once the concentration method is finalized, atmospheric NO3- aerosol samples from across the US will be preconcentrated and analyzed for their isotope compositions. These samples will then be able to give insight into how NO3- varies regionally and seasonally.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Carpenter, Jackson	Dallas, Tad	Macroecological Predictors of Helminth Diversity in Mammals View Full Text Abstract Text Parasites are one of the most abundant life forms on Earth, playing a large role in shaping populations. Understanding the factors that drive helminth species richness is important for analyzing zoonotic disease risk and managing ecosystems. While previous work has examined taxonomically-constrained host groups, the drivers of helminth richness broadly remain unclear. In particular, the generality of tradeoffs between life history or reproductive traits and immune function, where hosts that invest more in reproduction invest less energy towards immune system defenses, leading to higher parasite richness. Here, we investigate the relative importance of host phylogeny, traits, and geographic range size to predict helminth parasite species richness of mammalian hosts. We hypothesized that host body mass, geographic range size, and phylogeny would be the strongest predictors of helminth parasite species richness: larger hosts have more area for parasitic encounters, wider ranges expose hosts to more parasites, and closely related species share similarities physiologically (i.e. immune system) that will interact with parasites similarly. Using data from the London Natural History Museum, COMBINE mammal trait database, VertLife, and GBIF occurrence data, we built an ensemble model combining gradient boosted regression, support vector machines, and a generalized linear model for helminth species richness across over 1,000 mammalian species. Our model explained over 40% of the variation in helminth species richness. Host litter size, geographic range size, and phylogeny were the strongest predictors, while body mass was less predictive than expected. These findings suggest that geographic range size, phylogeny, and reproductive strategy are among the biggest drivers of helminth diversity in mammals. The pace-of-life hypothesis is supported: hosts with larger litters tend to invest less in immune defense and more towards reproducing. By better understanding the ecological factors of parasite richness at a macroecological scale, we can predict zoonotic disease risk.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kane, Amanda	Ruppel, Susan	The Influences of Affect and Credibility on the Illusory Truth Effect View Full Text Abstract Text Repetitive exposure to statements can produce a cognitive bias known as the Illusory Truth Effect (Begg et al., 1992), in which repeated statements are more likely to be perceived as true, regardless of their actual validity. The effect was first demonstrated by Hasher et al. (1977), who presented participants with a series of true and false statements and asked them to rate their truthfulness. The researchers found that participants were more likely to judge repeated statements as true compared to statements they had not previously encountered. Since then, the Illusory Truth Effect has been widely studied, though its implications in the context of social media and rapid information sharing have gained attention more recently. Repeated exposure to information through news outlets and social media platforms may increase the believability of false information, highlighting the importance of understanding this effect in modern communication environments. Recent research has further examined factors that may strengthen or weaken this bias. Pan and Hu (2025) conducted three studies using both true and false statements, some of which were repeated after a brief distraction while others were new. In one study, certain statements were accompanied by warning labels indicating they came from an uncredible source. Results showed that participants rated repeated statements as more truthful than new statements and even more truthful than statements flagged with warning labels. Similarly, He et al. (2025) found that when participants were aware of source credibility, repeated positive statements were rated as more truthful than repeated negative or neutral statements. The current study aims to examine whether the combination of source credibility (credible vs. non-credible) and statement affect (positive, negative, neutral) further influences truth judgments. Participants will first rate statements paired with credible or non-credible sources. After 48 hours, they will rate repeated and new statements without source information.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kallis, Emily	Stackhouse, Farren	Exploring VR-Mindfulness impacts on Cognitive Processing Speed and Biofeedback Measures: Informing Counseling Approaches for Cognitive Functional Recovery View Full Text Abstract Text There are mixed findings about the influences of mindfulness on various aspects of cognitions and biofeedback measures. Elevated heart rates (HR) are associated with poorer cognitive performance. Meanwhile, reduction of HR through mindfulness techniques may enhance performance on cognitive processing tasks. Mindfulness can be practiced in virtual reality (VR) to make the experience more fun, motivating, and engaging. The purpose of this explanatory sequential mixed-methods study is to explore how mindfulness practices delivered through VR influence cognitive processing speed and heart rate, and to understand users’ perspectives on this experience to inform counseling practices. Participants recorded HR, in beats per minute, and completed the WAIS-IV symbol search task, capturing cognitive processing speed, before and after undergoing a VR mindfulness intervention. Participants discussed their experience in a follow-up interview. Preliminary analysis of this ongoing study indicates insignificant differences in cognitive processing speed before (M = 36.250, SD = 2.872) and after (M = 42.000, SD = 7.165, t(3)= -1.843, p = 0.162) the VR mindfulness intervention. Additionally, there were insignificant differences in HR before (M = 94.75, SD = 17.970) and after (M = 84.250, SD = 14.001, t(3) = 2.516, p = 0.086) the VR mindfulness intervention. HR and cognitive processing speed were found to be negatively correlated (r(3) = -0.714, p = 0.286), though this relationship was not significant. Qualitative analysis using Saldaña coding methods revealed themes of increased focus, relaxation, and confidence in task performance following the VR mindfulness intervention. These findings suggest a potential relationship between cognitive processing speed and heart rate, which may be impacted by VR mindfulness. Keywords: virtual reality, mindfulness, cognitive processing, biofeedback, rehabilitation counseling	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Thompson, Ayden	Carter, Sarah	“coding right from wrong” View Full Text Abstract Text The research talks about AI” ethics. This research will show the ethical issues in artificial intelligence, such as bias, privacy, and responsibility. It studies how AI can sometimes make unfair decisions and what risks it may cause. The goal is to suggest simple guidelines to help make AI fair, safe, and trustworthy.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Myrick, Ryder	Kisselev, Olesya	Where evidence-based research meets L2 pedagogy: Classroom instruction of Russian case morphology View Full Text Abstract Text Learners of Russian as a second language (L2) have long been documented to struggle with the Russian case system. Case is a foundational feature of Russian, a fusional language with relatively flexible word order that relies heavily on nominal morphology to encode grammatical relations. However, pedagogy-oriented research on the acquisition of Russian case morphology remains limited, with relatively little work directly connecting instructional practices to empirically grounded models of L2 learning. Addressing this gap, Kisselev, Rubina and McManus (2025) investigated the effects of a Usage-Based (UB) pedagogical intervention targeting the Russian nominative–accusative distinction. Drawing on UB L2 theory, the intervention emphasized systematic attention to form–meaning mappings and automatization practice. In their study, 48 English-speaking beginner learners of L2 Russian received the experimental instruction (in-class lecture and supplemental packet grounded in UB theory) followed by a post-test. The results showed robust advantages, over 90% accuracy, for the experimental group compared to the control group, which had an average accuracy rate of 45% as well as substantial variability. However, their study did not include a delayed post-test, leaving questions about longer-term development unanswered. The present study reports a partial replication of Kisselev et al. (2025) that addresses this limitation. A new cohort of beginner learners (n = 30) received instruction using the same experimental approach and materials, with the addition of a delayed post-test. The study also incorporated qualitative data collected during tutoring sessions through a semi-structured protocol. Quantitative findings replicate the main results of the original study, further supporting the effectiveness of UB instruction for Russian case morphology. Qualitative analysis reveals additional factors shaping learning outcomes, including prior language background and learner agency. The discussion considers the benefits and challenges of implementing a UB framework in L2 instruction, and the study concludes by outlining directions for future research.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Odem, Rosemary	Harrison, Sayward	Problematic Internet Use and Substance Use Within the Dual Factor Model of Mental Health View Full Text Abstract Text Late adolescence is characterized by increased autonomy and elevated risk for both problematic internet use (PIU) and substance use disorders (SUD). Although these behaviors are often studied independently, growing evidence suggests they may share underlying psychological mechanisms. The Dual Factor Model (DFM) of mental health, which conceptualizes wellbeing as the coexistence of psychopathology and subjective wellbeing, provides a framework for examining similarities and distinctions across behavioral and substance-related concerns. The present study aims to determine whether PIU and SUD share common characteristics and mental health profiles within the DFM. Specifically, we examine whether individuals with elevated PIU and/or substance use exhibit comparable patterns of psychological distress and subjective wellbeing. We hypothesize that both PIU and SUD will be associated with higher psychological distress; however, variability in wellbeing may distinguish subgroups of individuals who are symptomatic yet report moderate or high life satisfaction. Participants are undergraduate students recruited from a large public university in the United States. Data are being collected via an online survey assessing PIU, substance use behaviors, psychological distress, and subjective wellbeing using validated self-report measures. Additional measures assess personality traits and motivations for use to inform exploratory analyses aligned with secondary aims. Multivariable regression analyses will assess whether PIU and SUD differentially predict each dimension of mental health. Data collection is ongoing. Findings are expected to clarify whether PIU and SUD reflect similar profiles of mental health and to inform prevention strategies that move beyond symptom reduction to incorporate wellbeing promotion among late adolescents.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Anderson, Ashley	Shinkareva, Svetlana Yang, Xuan	Perception and Mental Imagery: A Comparative Study of Physiological Responses View Full Text Abstract Text Mental imagery plays a critical role in affective processing and is thought to exhibit physiological mechanisms similar to those involved in perception. It has been established that physiological mechanisms underlying perception and mental imagery change when evoked by extreme valenced stimuli, but less is known about how these processes compare in everyday contexts. Moreover, mental imagery and audiovisual perception have not yet been compared within the same experiment. Controlled investigation of perception and mental imagery requires stimuli that are matched on valence and arousal across the conditions. To address this gap, the present study validated audiovisual clips and mental imagery prompts in a series of five online behavioral experiments. One hundred seventy-five participants rated each prompt and 15-second clip on valence, arousal, difficulty, familiarity, and vividness. Based on these ratings, we selected a final set of 120 stimuli, 60 audiovisual clips and 60 mental imagery prompts, that were equated on arousal with an even distribution of positive, negative, and neutral stimuli across the two sets. These validated stimuli will be used in a forthcoming psychophysiology experiment examining the underlying physiological responses to perception and mental imagery. Electromyography over the corrugator supercilia and zygomaticus major muscles, heart rate, electrodermal activity, and fingertip skin temperature will be measured, and differences in responses will be examined. Differences in physiological responding across modalities will clarify shared and distinct mechanisms underlying perception and mental imagery in everyday emotional contexts.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Tyler, Lucia	Benitez-Nelson, Claudia	Nutrient-Carbon Relationships in South Carolina Blackwater Systems View Full Text Abstract Text Across the Atlantic Coastal Plain of the southeastern United States, dense networks of blackwater systems are fueled by wetland-derived dissolved organic matter. South Carolina blackwater rivers exhibit added complexity due to local hydrology and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) sources, resulting in low pH and dissolved oxygen concentrations. This creates challenges for classification and monitoring frameworks that were largely developed for non-blackwater systems. In this study, we examined monthly dissolved and particulate nutrient and carbon composition across 35 sites in 2024, classified as blackwater, partial blackwater, and non-blackwater systems, to evaluate DOC-nutrient relationships and temporal variability. Results find statistically significant differences in DOC, with the highest concentrations in blackwater systems (Blackwater vs Partial: p < 0.01 and Blackwater vs non-Blackwater: p = 1.06 x 10-10) and lowest concentrations in non-blackwater systems (Partial vs non-Blackwater: p < 0.01), as expected. Highest DOC concentrations occurred in August-September, consistent with high precipitation. Total dissolved nitrogen (TDN) concentrations did not differ significantly among system types (p>0.05 for all comparisons), while total dissolved phosphorus (TDP) concentrations were significantly higher in blackwater than non-blackwater systems (p < 0.005). Regression analyses revealed that DOC-nutrient coupling was system specific, with DOC-TDP trends strongest in non-blackwater systems (R2 = 0.38) and DOC-TDN trends strongest in Blackwater systems (R2 =0.43). South Carolina patterns were compared to the broader southeastern U.S. coastal plain to assess whether the observed DOC dynamics and nutrient-carbon coupling are regionally consistent. Overall, results suggest that South Carolina blackwater chemistry is shaped more strongly by carbon cycling, wetland-derived organic matter, and hydrologic flushing than by dissolved nutrient composition. These findings have implications for interpreting bioavailability and improving monitoring approaches in coastal plain watersheds and blackwater systems.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hatcher, Elijah	Lu, Linyuan Cooper, Joshua	Generating Graphs Given Specified Eigenvalues View Full Text Abstract Text The ability to generate novel, realistic graphs with given properties has many applications, including drug design (Zang and Wang, 2020) and neural network architecture (Lee et al., 2021). In particular, generating graphs whose associated matrices have a specific spectrum of eigenvalues is useful because those eigenvalues capture many characteristics of the graph, such as connectivity and community structure. Many researchers have recently turned to machine learning to create useful graph generation models; in particular, Martinkus et al. built SPECTRE in 2022. SPECTRE first generates the top k eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a graph’s Laplacian matrix and then uses a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) to generate a graph with those eigenvalues and eigenvectors. This project builds off of SPECTRE to create a model that can generate graphs using a mix of specified eigenvalues from an adjacency matrix, a normalized Laplacian matrix, and a signless Laplacian matrix.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Tripuraneni, Sanjana	Chen, Mengqian Mack, Zachary Mogila, Vladic Belcher, Erin Markwell, Emma	Comparative Effects of Pharmacologic CDK8/19 Inhibition and Genetic Deletion on EO771 Tumor Growth In Vivo View Full Text Abstract Text CDK8 and CDK19 are Mediator complex-associated kinases that regulate transcriptional reprogramming and have been implicated in tumor adaptation and progression. Previous studies using inducible double knockout (iDKO) mouse models demonstrated that host deletion of CDK8 and CDK19 significantly suppresses tumor uptake, delays tumor growth, and in some cases induces tumor regression in vivo. However, it remains unclear whether pharmacologic inhibition of CDK8/19 can replicate the effects observed with complete genetic deletion in the host environment. In this study, we evaluated the effects of CDK8/19 inhibition using the small-molecule inhibitor SNX631-6 in comparison to inducible CDK8/19 knockout. A total of 61 C57BL/6 mice were inoculated with 500,000 EO771 murine breast cancer cells (5 million cells/mL). Mice were divided into four groups: Wild Type (WT), WT + SNX631-6 (WT + SNX), inducible double knockout without tamoxifen (iDKO), and tamoxifen-induced double knockout (iDKO + Tam). To assess the impact of host conditioning, SNX-treated mice were gavaged daily for 21 days prior to tumor inoculation. Unlike previous survival-only studies, six mice from each group were intentionally sacrificed at two weeks post-inoculation to allow for direct tumor dissection and early phenotypic assessment. Consistent with prior findings, iDKO + Tam mice exhibited suppressed tumor uptake, reduced tumor growth, and instances of tumor regression, supporting a critical role for CDK8/19 in the host microenvironment. SNX pretreatment limited CDK8/19 kinase activity and attenuated tumor growth; however, its effects were less pronounced than complete genetic deletion. These findings suggest that kinase inhibition does not fully recapitulate the tumor-suppressive effects observed in iDKO mice, potentially due to preserved kinase-independent functions of CDK8/19. Together, these results reinforce the importance of CDK8/19 in regulating tumor-host interactions and highlight mechanistic differences between pharmacologic inhibition and genetic knockout in vivo.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Scheer, Daniel	Erdei, Ronald	SQL Injection Detection and Prevention in the Age of AI: A Review of Current Literature View Full Text Abstract Text SQL Injection (SQLi) remains a common cybersecurity vulnerability and persistent attack vector in modern web applications. This paper presents a structured literature review of recent developments in SQLi detection and prevention, with particular emphasis on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques. Findings from 24 selected publications published since 2022 are synthesized according to defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The review outlines common SQLi attack types, traces the progression from traditional pattern-matching and input validation approaches to modern ML-based classification systems, and highlights emerging frameworks leveraging transformer architectures and large language models. Particular attention is given to encoding strategies, dataset construction, and deployment constraints, as these factors influence detection performance and real-world applicability. This work aims to provide both a concise synthesis of recent research and an accessible starting point for computer science students interested in applying AI techniques to defensive cybersecurity challenges.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Merchak, Emma	Pellegrini, Christine Horn, Kailyn Nakhi, Sara Jamieson, Scott	Association of Baseline Body Mass Index with Accelerometer Wear Time, Physical Activity, and Physical Function in Older Adults with Total Knee Replacement View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Accelerometer wear time is essential for valid objective assessment of physical activity (PA) in clinical trials. Individual characteristics like body mass index (BMI) may affect comfort, mobility, or engagement when wearing an accelerometer, potentially impacting wear time. BMI is also associated with physical function and activity levels, which may further influence patterns of device wear. Purpose: This secondary analysis examined the association between baseline BMI and accelerometer wear time among older adults post 6-month total knee replacement (TKR) enrolled in a behavioral weight loss trial. Relationships between BMI, PA, and physical function were also explored to contextualize wear time findings. Methods: This secondary analysis included older adults who were 6 months post TKR, enrolled in a behavioral weight loss trial. BMI was calculated from measured height and weight. PA was assessed using waist worn ActiGraph accelerometers during waking hours for seven consecutive days. Total wear time (minutes) was extracted for analysis. Physical function was assessed at baseline using the Timed Up and Go (TUG), 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and 30-second chair stand test (30CST). Pearson correlations examined associations among BMI, wear time, PA, step counts, and physical function ( p< .05). Results: One hundred seventy-nine adults (age 65.96 ± 8.39 years; BMI 33.91 ± 4.57 kg/m²) were included. BMI was not significantly associated with accelerometer wear time (r= -.047, p= .537) or total MVPA (r= -.131, p= .080). Higher BMI was significantly associated with longer TUG time (r= .285, p< .001), shorter 6MWT distance ( r= -.311, p < .001), and fewer 30CST repetitions (r= -.170, p= .023), and lower average daily step counts (r= -.280, p < .001). Discussion: BMI was not associated with wear time, suggesting that body characteristics did not influence objectively measured monitoring duration. However, higher BMI was associated with poorer physical function and lower activity levels.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Wrigley, Brooke	D'Antonio, Edward	Incorporation of Cytochrome c as a Fusion Partner for the Enhanced Production of Recombinant Hexokinase from Trypanosoma cruzi with Biochemical Characterization View Full Text Abstract Text Chagas’ disease, caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, remains a major neglected tropical disease affecting millions, primarily in Latin America, with increasing spread to the United States. If left untreated, it can lead to severe cardiac and gastrointestinal complications. Current therapeutic options remain limited. The parasite’s hexokinase (TcHxK), which is essential for glycolysis in the mammalian bloodstream form of the parasite, is a validated drug target. To enable high-yield production and functional characterization of TcHxK for inhibitor discovery, a soluble fusion protein was engineered using an N-terminal 6x His-tagged Equus caballus cytochrome c (EcCyt c) attached via a flexible linker containing the Tobacco etch virus (TEV) protease cleavage site to TcHxK. EcCyt c gives the fusion protein its distinctive red color, allowing easy visual confirmation of successful expression and purification. This fusion protein strategy can accelerate a structured drug design against glycolysis-dependent T. cruzi which can offer a critical step toward new anti-T. cruzi therapeutics. The 6x His-tagged EcCyt c-TcHxK fusion protein was expressed in Escherichia coli, lysed, and purified by two rounds of column chromatography (Co-NTA affinity and size-exclusion). Red-colored fractions were recovered (indicated by EcCyt c), which corresponded to the presence of the fusion protein. UV-visible spectroscopy confirmed the hexokinase activity of TcHxK that was quantified by an NADPH fluorescence-based enzyme coupled assay Leuconstoc mesenteroides glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. The Michaelis-Menten plot yielded a KM value of 27 μM for D-glucose where the reproducibility was observed with previously published interlaboratory data. This finding is significant because EcCyt c can be present with TcHxK during enzymatic assays as a fusion protein with minor interference; however, we also have the option to cleave the TEV linker using TEV protease. Finally, EcCyt c also enables the solubility enhancement of its protein partner, which facilitates the increased overall protein yield.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Smith, Riley	Kaczynski, Andrew Shariati, Farnaz	Infrastructure and Inclusion: Examining the Prevalence and Severity of Sidewalk Features on Urban Accessibility for Individuals with Visual and Motor Disabilities View Full Text Abstract Text Sidewalks are a foundational feature of the built environment, serving as a primary mode via which individuals move through urban spaces. However, sidewalk design and maintenance are often constructed without full consideration for the needs of persons with motor disabilities (PwMD) and visual impairments (PwVI) who represent 12.2% and 5.5% of the U.S. population, respectively. These conditions restrict accessibility for PwMDs and PwVIs and can compromise their safety and health. This study explored the prevalence and severity of sidewalk features in Columbia, South Carolina, and how sidewalk accessibility barriers differed between low-income and high-income neighborhoods. Data were collected using Project Sidewalk, a virtual auditing tool that allowed trained research assistants (including the primary author) to navigate and label sidewalk features (e.g., no sidewalk, curb ramp, missing curb ramp obstacle in path, surface problem) via Google Street View for all streets in Columbia, SC (approximately 1000 miles). Each label was then assigned a weighted score based on its impact on accessibility, and scores for each sidewalk variables were summed and compared across block groups and income levels. It was hypothesized that accessibility scores would be worse in lower-income block groups. Data are currently being analyzed using SPSS statistical software to obtain descriptive statistics identifying trends in the frequency and severity of sidewalk features and using analysis of variance (ANOVA) to compare these across quintiles of neighborhood income for all Columbia block groups (n=160). The findings will highlight specific concerns in Columbia, SC to advocate for more inclusive and equitable infrastructure for individuals with disabilities and will provide a guide for city officials in making evidence-based decisions when prioritizing accessibility issues to address.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Koumoustiotis, Despina	Liese, Angela Julceus, Emmanuel Austin-Cherry, Megan Bush, Kamille Davis, Rachel Bekelman, Traci	The Influence of Informational Social Support Among Individuals with Diabetes and Food Insecurity View Full Text Abstract Text Despina Koumoustiotis1 Megan Austin-Cherry, MPH, PhD-C1, Angela D. Liese, PhD, MPH1, Rachel Davis, PhD, MPH1, Traci A. Bekelman, PhD, MPH1, Emmanuel Julceus, MD, MPH1, Kamille Bush1 Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina; Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, Colorado  Objective: Informational social support is a measure of knowledge, guidance, and insight from other individuals that aid one’s decision-making and adaptability in challenging situations. This study examines how informational social support can hinder or enhance an individual with food insecurity in managing diabetes and their overall well-being.   Method: One-on-one in-depth interviews with nine participants experiencing food insecurity from the SEARCH Food Security Cohort Study 2 (5 with Type 1 Diabetes and 4 with Type 2 Diabetes) in this analysis. All interviews were reviewed for the theme of informational social support, providing insight into its role in an individual's diabetes journey.  Results: The role of informational social support emerged through accounts of family history of diabetes, varying exposure pathways to diabetes education, such as educational systems, healthcare providers, and differing degrees of involvement from family and friends. Participants who experienced exposure to diabetes education in early childhood and/or adolescence, consistent external support systems, and active guidance from family or healthcare providers reported satisfaction and feeling in control of their management. However, others felt that informational social support functioned as a barrier, due to the absence of knowledge of diabetes before diagnosis and minimal understanding and support from others, resulting in feelings of fragility and invalidation, facilitating difficulties in self-management.     Conclusion:  This study highlights the significance of informational social support, whether that be through suitable resources of diabetes education or engaged family support, aiding in reducing feelings of isolation, promoting a more positive attitude, and enhancing confidence in self-management for individuals with diabetes.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Ramamurthy, Rithi	Hung, Peiyin	Bridging the Digital Divide: County-level Telecommunication Capacity and Prenatal Telehealth Uptake in South Carolina, 2018-2023 View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction Telehealth is widely used to help bridge gaps in access to perinatal care. However, barriers remain and data is limited regarding the role of digital divide in prenatal telehealth uptake. Objective The goal of this study is to examine spatial and temporal trends in community telecommunication capacity (i.e., broadband access, digital device ownership) and prenatal telehealth use. Methods This cross-sectional study analyzed county-level factors from three data sources: 1) American Community Survey data from the Census Bureau for maternal sociodemographic factors 2) All-payer hospital-based patient records for telehealth records and pregnancy comorbidity; 3) Medicaid claims data for freestanding units’ telehealth records. Lack of telecommunication capacity was measured as proportion of households without broadband subscription and women with no telecommunication devices (computer, smartphone, tablet, etc.). We categorized these two measures into quartiles. Prenatal telehealth uptake was identified using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes and CPT modifiers. Bivariate analysis and multivariable regression models were used to analyze annual trends and associations between digital capacity and prenatal telehealth uptake rates at the county level, overall and by rurality. Results In South Carolina, prenatal telehealth use has increased from almost none in 2018 to an average of 1.91% in 2023. Rural-urban differences in telecommunication capacity persist; as of 2023, 15.6% of rural noncore women versus 9.6% of urban women had no telecommunication devices. Prenatal telehealth uses consistently remained higher in counties with highest vs lowest quartile broadband access: peaking at 2.6% (standard deviation [SD], 0.7%) vs. 1.8% (0.6%) in 2020, and by 2023, the disparity had widened to 2.4% (1.6%) vs. 0.1% (1.2%). Urban counties had better access to digital devices and broadband compared to rural noncore areas, which exhibited the largest access gaps. Conclusion Geographic and socioeconomic disparities in prenatal telehealth uptake highlight the need to address the digital divide across communities as a structural barrier.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Barrett, Jamie	Osbaldiston, Richard	It’s not weighing on you anymore: Weight loss and self-esteem View Full Text Abstract Text Much research has been done on the physiological effects of weight loss, but much less has looked at the psychological effects of weight loss. One psychological variable that is related to just about every component of the human experience is self-esteem. We started with the research question “How strongly is weight loss related to increase in self-esteem?” To answer this question, we did a search for studies using two traditional literature search tools (PsycInfo, Google Scholar) and four new AI-based research tools (Semantic Scholar, Consensus, Primo Research Assistant, and Elicit). In addition to answering the research question, we wanted to compare the use of traditional research tools with new AI-based research tools. Our findings are that there is a moderate relationship between weight loss and self-esteem improvement (Cohen’s d = 0.52), although there is a significant amount of heterogeneity in the studies.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Desai, Kalli Farmer-Reyes, Nicole	Robinson, Luz	Collective Care on Campus: A Scoping Review of Suicide-Prevention Policies & Practices View Full Text Abstract Text This study was a scoping review of suicide prevention policies and practices disclosed by the largest public university in each of the 50 states based on enrollment data. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the resources available to those struggling with mental health to prevent the large issue of suicide on college campuses. Specifically, the study aimed to educate faculty, practitioners, and the public about the state of suicide prevention with the goal of improving the ability of campus staff and faculty to direct students to appropriate services and motivating further interventions to fill gaps in care. Coding and the included categories were based on frameworks from established mental health organizations such as JED Campus. Information coded included access to counseling services, after-hours care, crisis resources, mental health training for students and staff, lethal means safety, behavioral intervention, resources for belonging and identity affirmation, and written policies on prevention, postvention, and medical leave. To provide evidence and references, links were included for much of the information collected. This scoping review also included researching peer-reviewed articles and gray literature to determine the public availability of information on the suicide prevention practices and policies of each university, as well as their effectiveness. Each university was coded three times by different undergraduate research assistants to ensure accuracy in the data collected and highlight any discrepancies. The results of this study revealed that non-mandatory practices were ubiquitous, and most universities checked off most categories. However, formal policies and suicide literature were uncommon. The findings indicate a lack of university-based involvement in suicide prevention due to the absence of binding policies, which may contribute to high suicide rates.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Biswas, Prarthana	Mousseau, Timothy	Radiation and Recolonization: Assessing Vegetation, Wildlife Distribution, and Species Interactions in Chernobyl’s Exclusion Zone Using Remote Camera Data View Full Text Abstract Text Earlier research indicates that the nuclear accident at Chernobyl significantly altered animal behavior, population distribution, and overall abundance. In this study, we propose that ambient radiation levels are negatively correlated with vegetation abundance and, consequently, with animal populations. To evaluate this hypothesis, we will compare radiation measurements with plant productivity estimates derived from satellite-based NDVI data. These results will then be compared with animal abundance and spatial distribution patterns in the exclusion zone, determined through motion-triggered camera imagery. The dataset used for this analysis comes from an extensive database gathered over eight years, incorporating data from 50–70 cameras positioned across the exclusion zone. Examining patterns of population distribution within the area will help clarify the extent to which animals have successfully recolonized the zone and whether radiation-induced changes in vegetation have posed challenges for wildlife. In addition, the camera data have supported several related research initiatives. One such project focuses on intraspecific competition among red deer, roe deer, and moose. We predict that an increase in the population of one deer species will correspond with a decline in the others. This research enhances our understanding of species interactions among animals that have returned to the exclusion zone and explores whether competitive dynamics have influenced their distribution and population sizes.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Budiongan, Julia	Fillo, Jennifer Thrasher, James Bornstein, Marta Dermen, Kurt	Between Sips and Sheets: Modernization of a Sex-Related Alcohol Expectancy Measure with College Students View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Alcohol consumption and sexual behavior frequently co-occur, especially among college students, leading to increased risk of experiencing negative health outcomes such as unwanted sex, sexually transmitted infections, and higher risk drinking behaviors. Sex-related alcohol expectancies (SRAEs) are beliefs about alcohol’s effects on sex, and they predict risky alcohol-involved sexual behavior. SRAEs present a promising target for interventions and health communication campaigns; however, existing measures of SRAEs, such as the Sex-Related Alcohol Expectancies Questionnaire (SRAEQ), need to be updated to reflect contemporary sexual behavior norms and terminology that include more diverse lived experiences. Methods: This research is part of an ongoing 3-phase, mixed-methods study aimed at modernizing and validating a new SRAEQ measure. Phase 1 utilized data from the Spring 2025 National College Health Assessment, conducted at the University of South Carolina (N=1787), to characterize relationships between the SRAEQ and college students’ prior drinking and sexual experiences. Using cognitive interviews (N=25) with a diverse sample of college students (e.g., gender identity, sexual orientation), phase 2 involved updating SRAEQ items to reflect contemporary, inclusive, and bias-free language (e.g., pronoun use, relevance of condoms). Results: Data collection for phase 2 is currently underway, and preliminary results will be shared in this presentation. Results from the full study will produce a contemporary, psychometrically sound measure of SRAEs, and shed light on their relation to intentions for alcohol-involved sex. Conclusion: This work will provide an improved measure of SRAEs and, thus, more accurate information that is critical for the development/adaptation of effective prevention and intervention programs aimed at reducing harm related to alcohol-involved sexual behavior and dispelling misperceptions of alcohol-involved sexual behavior among college students.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Suber, Avari	Lee, Dongkyu	Understanding Thermoelectric Behavior of Substrate-Free Oxide Thin Films View Full Text Abstract Text Thermoelectric (TE) devices are essential for sustainable energy systems because they directly convert temperature gradients into electrical power without moving parts, enabling efficient waste heat recovery and thermal management. La0.8Sr0.2CoO3 (LSCO) is investigated due to its promising thermoelectric properties and potential to enhance the power factor in flexible, freestanding membrane architecture. In this work, we introduce a freestanding membrane strategy to engineer the TE properties of LSCO. Epitaxial (001) oriented LSCO thin films were grown by pulsed laser deposition on single-crystal SrTiO₃ substrates. Water-soluble sacrificial layers, Sr₂CaAl₂O₆ (S2C1AO) and SrCa₂Al₂O₆ (S1C2AO), were employed, along with a polyimide (PI) protective layer, to preserve membrane integrity during release. After complete detachment, the LSCO membranes were transferred onto the PI tape. The resulting LSCO (001) membranes exhibited either flat or wrinkled surface morphologies, depending on lattice mismatch with the sacrificial layers. These structural differences provide a platform to study how strain relaxation and surface texture influence intrinsic TE performance. Electrical conductivity (σ) and the Seebeck coefficient (S) were measured, since the power factor (PF = S²σ) reflects the efficiency of charge carrier transport under a temperature gradient. Comparative analysis shows that the wrinkled membrane exhibits reduced electrical conductivity due to strain-induced carrier scattering, while the Seebeck coefficient remains relatively unchanged. In contrast, the flat membrane maintains high conductivity with minimal variation in S, resulting in higher power factors. These results clarify the relationship between strain relaxation, morphology, and thermoelectric transport in flexible LSCO membranes. Overall, this study provides practical design guidelines for flexible oxide-based TE devices and establishes a reproducible framework for evaluating freestanding epitaxial oxide films in realistic device configurations.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Koczaja, Abigail	Hosseini, Seyyedamirhossein	Silver-Silver Chloride Reference Electrode: Construction and Performance in Nitrogen-Containing Organic Solvents View Full Text Abstract Text Reference electrodes (REs) are essential for electrochemical studies ranging from fundamental measurements to electrosynthesis. Among them, the silver/silver chloride (Ag(s)/AgCl(s)) electrode is widely used due to its simple fabrication and excellent stability in aqueous systems. However, its construction, long-term performance, and shelf life in nitrogen-containing organic solvents, such as dimethylformamide (DMF), have only been sporadically reported and lack systematic analytical characterization, limiting broader practical adoption. Herein, we report a low-cost (~$5 per electrode), easy-to-fabricate, and stable Ag(s)/AgCl(s) RE for electrochemical measurements in nitrogen-containing organic solvents and provide a systematic evaluation of its performance under relevant electrochemical operating conditions. Specifically, the electrochemical stability of the Ag(s)/AgCl(s) RE in DMF was methodically evaluated as a function of chloride concentration and source, AgCl growth method and duration, and the AgCl–to-Cl⁻ ratio. Under optimized conditions, the RE operates without uncomplexed chloride (Ag(s)/AgCl(s)/AgCl2–(org), AgCl(org)) and exhibits excellent stability in several nitrogen-containing solvents, including DMF, dimethylacetamide (DMA), aniline (AN), and acetonitrile (ACN). The electrode also exhibited minimal potential oscillation (± 0.6 mV) over 24 h of uninterrupted cyclic voltammetry (CV), a potential drift of 4 mV during state-of-charge measurements after passing 69 C of charge during ferrocene electrolysis and maintained stable performance over a 21-day shelf life.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Martinez, Dyana	Kalb, Judith	Sacred History and State Power: The Russian Orthodox Church and the Justification of War in Ukraine View Full Text Abstract Text This research examines the relationship between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Russian government and how both institutions use history to support Russia’s war in Ukraine. I argue that the Church and the state form a close partnership in which historical memory and religious language are used to justify political power and military action. By analyzing speeches by President Vladimir Putin, official Church statements, and scholarly studies on religion and politics, this project explores how historical narratives are presented as sacred truth and a means to promote national destiny. The study focuses on how the idea of a shared Russian past, including references to early medieval unity and the memory of World War II, is used to frame the war in Ukraine as morally justified and spiritually necessary. It also considers whether support within the Church reflects genuine theological belief or political alignment with the state. While many Church leaders publicly support the war, dissenting voices within the Church suggest internal debate and tension. By examining religion, history, and national identity together, this project demonstrates how historical memory becomes a powerful political tool. The findings show that in modern Russia, religious tradition and state authority are deeply connected, blurring the boundary between faith and political ideology.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Christov, Nicholas	Dallas, Tad Pignatelli, Anthony	Population growth rate variability as a result of demographic stochasticity View Full Text Abstract Text In nature, small populations tend to be more likely to experience extinction than larger ones, and this can be due to many factors such as uneven sex ratios, genetic drift, and demographic stochasticity. This suggests that populations started at a low density would tend to have lower population growth rates. Also, due to probabilistic processes of birth and death, we would expect small populations to also have more variability in population growth rate across replicate populations of a given density. We explore population growth rate across replicate populations of flour beetles by testing the hypothesis that variability among individuals in smaller populations will create a situation where the variability in population growth rates are more variable. Flour beetle populations started with 5 to 160 individual beetles per small plastic container, with each treatment replicated 50 times. After a 24-hour egg-laying period, the containers were incubated for 5 weeks. After incubation time completed, each new population was censused, and the data collected was analyzed using the R programming language. We found a clear relationship between initial population density and the variability in population growth rates, illustrating the fundamental limits to predictability of population dynamics of small populations. Future work will explore the mathematical underpinnings of the variability in population growth rates, and explore expected population dynamics given the range of population growth rates. By attempting to characterize how population growth rate variability is affected by initial density, these results will address a fundamental limitation in our ability to forecast population dynamics.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kalaga, Pranav	Ray, Swapan	Quantum Dot Bioconjugates Advanced with Click Chemistry and Artificial Intelligence for Glioblastoma Imaging and Intervention View Full Text Abstract Text Glioblastoma (GB) remains one of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant malignancies. Current clinical management, including surgical debulking, radiotherapy, and temozolomide chemotherapy, provides only modest improvements in survival for GB patients. Persistent challenges in accurate imaging, early diagnosis, and effective therapeutic delivery contribute to high recurrence rates of GB and underscore the need for more precise and adaptable technologies for its imaging and intervention. Bioconjugated quantum dots (QDs) have emerged as versatile nanoplatforms for GB imaging and intervention because of their exceptional photostability, tunable emission profiles, and modifiable surfaces. Their nanoscale dimensions enable penetration of the blood–brain barrier, enabling high-resolution visualization of tumor margins and potential delivery of therapeutics. We propose embracing recent advances in QD engineering through click chemistry, which provides site-specific, efficient, and stable conjugation of targeting ligands, peptides, and therapeutic cargos. By enhancing molecular precision and functional diversity, click chemistry-generated QD bioconjugates offer improved selectivity toward biomarkers associated with GB. We further highlight the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in optimizing QD design, predictive modeling, image analysis, and treatment personalization. AI-driven algorithms hold promises for refining QD bioconjugation strategies, improving tumor segmentation, and forecasting therapeutic responses. We provide mechanistic insights into QD–cell interactions, including receptor-mediated endocytosis, intracellular trafficking, and signaling pathways that shape biodistribution and therapeutic efficacy. Particular attention should be paid to QD-enabled photodynamic therapy, in which photoactivation generates reactive oxygen species to induce apoptotic death in GB cells. Additionally, we address concerns surrounding the toxicity of metal-based QDs and appraise emerging approaches, including AI-guided material optimization, which aim to enhance biocompatibility and safety. By integrating nanotechnology, chemical precision, and computational intelligence, QD bioconjugates represent a promising and evolving platform for more accurate imaging, targeted intervention, and ultimately, improved clinical outcomes for GB patients.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Carlson, Maeve	Riccardi, Nicholas	Towards Neurotransmitter-Informed Phenotyping of the Aging Brain View Full Text Abstract Text Brain health decline across the adult lifespan threatens independence, quality of life, and economic stability, yet cognitive trajectories vary widely among individuals. Identifying scalable biomarkers that capture biologically specific mechanisms of brain aging remains a major public health priority. The cholinergic system plays a critical role in neural plasticity, memory, and cognition and shows heterogeneous cortical distributions. Key components include α4β2 nicotinic receptors, M1 muscarinic receptors, and the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT). Although positron emission tomography (PET) can map these neurotransmitter systems in vivo, PET imaging is costly, invasive, and difficult to scale to large cohorts. Recent advances in structural MRI-based “brain age” modeling allow estimation of biological brain age and region-specific aging patterns from routine scans. Instead of giving one overall brain age, these models create a map showing which specific brain regions are aging faster or slower. However, it remains unclear whether patterns of regional brain aging align with cholinergic architecture and whether such alignment provides neurobiologically specific information about cognitive risk. This study aims to investigate whether regional brain aging patterns align with normative PET-derived maps of α4β2, M1, and VAChT density across the adult lifespan, and whether cholinergic-weighted brain age phenotypes are associated with cognitive status at baseline and longitudinal follow-up. Using cortical similarity analysis, we will quantify the spatial correspondence between each participant’s regional brain age map and publicly available cholinergic PET atlases, generating neurotransmitter-weighted brain age scores. In a cohort of 5,329 adults with structural MRI and cognitive assessments, we will examine associations between these scores, demographic factors, vascular risk, and cognition, and will compare their predictive utility to traditional global brain age metrics. By integrating MRI-derived aging maps with neurotransmitter atlases, this project seeks to establish a scalable, biologically informed framework for phenotyping brain aging and cognitive risk.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Childress, Taylor	Wood, Susan Smiley, Cora	Impact of social stress and stress context on oxycodone preference and neural signaling in females View Full Text Abstract Text The opioid epidemic has expanded over the past several decades, and currently 9 million adolescents and adults misuse opioids each year. Opioid use disorder (OUD) is highly comorbid with stress-related psychiatric disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder. While males have an overall higher rate of OUD, females exhibit a higher rate of stress-evoked relapse behavior. Given this, we designed a study to examine how a history of social stress and re-exposure to stress context impacts opioid preference in females, and the neural mechanisms associated with this response. Our lab has developed[SW1.1] an ethologically relevant stressor whereby female rats view social defeat between two males from within a protected compartment in the aggressor’s cage (Witness stress, WS). In this study, females were exposed to WS or control handling for 15 minutes/day for 5 days. Following this, rats went through conditioned place preference (CPP) training for 3 days to establish a preference for oxycodone (3.0 mg/kg) in the oxycodone-paired side of the chamber. The following day, a subgroup of rats previously exposed to WS were re-exposed to the context of WS (WS CXT), in the absence of the aggressor. Immediately afterwards, rats underwent a final CPP test to assess oxycodone preference, then brain tissue was collected. Brains were micro-dissected to collect 1 mm punches of the nucleus accumbens and the basolateral amygdala, which are important regions for addiction behavior and conditioned stress responses, respectively. Behavioral analysis revealed that a history of WS exposure heightened preference for the oxycodone-paired side, and that WS CXT exposure prior to testing exacerbates this preference. Looking forward, we will conduct high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on these regions to determine neurotransmitter expression associated with stress and addiction behaviors, including norepinephrine and dopamine. Molecular analysis from HPLC will further elucidate the mechanism underlying heightened stress-evoked relapse behavioral response in females.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Nashiff, Benedicta Senior	Campbell, McInnes	Defining Irreversible LTQ-Targeting Geometry of the LOX Inhibitor LXG 6403 Through Computational Modeling View Full Text Abstract Text Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is a copper-dependent enzyme responsible for the oxidation of lysine residues in collagen and elastin, resulting in extracellular matrix (ECM) cross-linking required for normal tissue integrity; however, dysregulated LOX activity promotes pathological matrix stiffening in tumors. Elevated LOX activity correlates with metastasis and chemoresistance in triple-negative breast cancer. BAPN (β-aminopropionitrile) and PAT-1251 are covalent inhibitors that target the lysine tyrosylquinone (LTQ) cofactor; however, BAPN lacks isoform selectivity, and PAT-1251 primarily targets LOXL2. The bi-thiazole compound LXG 6403 has recently been identified as a selective and potent LOX inhibitor with chemosensitizing effects; however, whether LXG 6403 shares the irreversible LTQ-targeting binding geometry characteristic of established covalent inhibitors has not been structurally defined. To investigate this, computational models based on AlphaFold-predicted LOX isoform structures were generated. Glide docking, induced-fit docking, and covalent docking protocols were employed to evaluate binding orientations of BAPN in LOX, PAT-1251 in LOXL2, and LXG 6403 in LOX at the LTQ active site. Distances between inhibitor amine groups and the LTQ carbonyl were measured to assess geometric compatibility with Schiff base formation. Docking results indicate that LXG 6403 adopts an active-site conformation in LOX comparable to that observed for BAPN in LOX and PAT-1251 in LOXL2, positioning its primary amine proximal to the LTQ carbonyl in a geometry consistent with covalent interaction. While experimental data demonstrate that LXG 6403 exhibits selectivity for LOX over other LOX isoforms, the present modeling focused on individual isoform-inhibitor complexes and therefore supports preservation of LTQ-targeting geometry rather than definitively establishing the structural basis of isoform selectivity. Together, these findings demonstrate that irreversible LTQ engagement can be structurally maintained in LOX by LXG 6403 and provide a framework for future comparative studies aimed at defining the molecular determinants of isoform-selective LOX inhibition to reduce tumor stiffness and chemoresistance.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Hunter, Micah	Jabbari, Esmaiel	Conversion of Yard Waste to Cellulose-based Hydrogels View Full Text Abstract Text Lignocellulosic biomass is an abundant plant based material composed of lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose. The accumulation of lignocellulosic biomass leaves a significant environmental challenge, as it is estimated that between eleven thousand and thirty-one thousand tons of waste are produced annually from the cotton ginning industry in South Carolina alone. This massive accumulation of biowaste, along with common urban yard waste, represents an underutilized reservoir of raw materials that currently adds to the burden on local landfills. This excess in biowaste also means that cellulose is a very abundant resource capable of being used chemically. Cellulose also possesses numerous hydroxyl groups, making it a prime candidate for production of hydrogels. Hydrogels are biopolymer structures containing copious amounts of water. Cellulosic hydrogels are a form of physical hydrogel, made through the crosslinking with an extensive hydrogen-bonded structure. This study details a multi-stage process to convert raw yard-waste into a functional cellulose based hydrogel. The process begins with delignification of the yard waste to holocellulose, followed by conversion to cellulose. This is then followed by dissolution to break down the cellulose before crosslinking the material into a hydrogel. This method offers a sustainable option to manage yard waste by using it to develop cellulosic hydrogel, useful for drug delivery, wound dressings, and tissue engineering. These gels are also beneficial in their biodegradability, and their development reduces burden on landfills.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Dash, Darius	Yuan, Lang	Print Orientation and Manufacturability Analysis of Lattice-Structured Airfoils Fabricated via Laser Powder Bed Fusion View Full Text Abstract Text Additive manufacturing (AM) enables the fabrication of geometrically complex aerospace components that cannot be produced through traditional subtractive or formative manufacturing methods. This project investigates the design and manufacturability of an airfoil-inspired wing structure incorporating advanced internal lattice geometries fabricated using Laser Power Bed Fusion (LPBF). The structure was designed using a NACA-based airfoil profile and incorporates multiple internal lattice configurations, including body-centered cubic, gyroid, and re-entrant architectures, to demonstrate the structural design flexibility enabled by AM. The goal of this research focuses on evaluating the effects of build orientation on manufacturability, support requirements, and geometric fidelity during the LPBF process. Multiple build orientations are analyzed to determine their impact on print feasibility, support architecture generation, material usage, and post-processing requirements. By examining these factors, this study aims to identify optimal printing strategies for complex aerospace components containing internal lattice structures that are difficult to fabricate using conventional methods. Mass comparisons between lattice configurations demonstrate substantial potential for material reduction relative to traditional wing designs while maintaining the overall geometric envelope of the airfoil structure. Future work will incorporate finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate the structural performance of these lattice architectures under aerodynamic loading conditions and compare them with traditional spars and rib-based wing structures. This research highlights both the opportunities and constraints associated with translating highly complex digital designs into manufacturable aerospace components using additive manufacturing. The results contribute to a broader understanding of how print orientation, internal geometry, and manufacturing strategy influence the feasibility of lightweight lattice-based aerospace structures.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Owens, Isabella	Flory, Kate	ADHD Symptoms as a Moderator of the Relation between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Attachment Styles in College Students View Full Text Abstract Text Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are significant stressful events that occur during childhood (e.g., emotional or physical abuse, parental incarceration, community violence), and have been previously linked to individuals’ later attachment styles (i.e., the level of emotional security an individual experiences in relation to primary caregivers which persists in relationships throughout the lifespan). Attachment is commonly categorized into secure and insecure styles, in which typical patterns of insecure attachment are anxious or avoidant. ACEs are associated with higher levels of both anxious and avoidant attachment styles. These insecure attachment patterns have been shown to have long term consequences on relationship satisfaction, substance use, and overall mental health and well-being. Individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may present with symptoms like emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and rejection sensitivity, which may increase the risk for insecure attachment styles following exposure to adversity. The present study therefore seeks to examine the role of ADHD as a potential moderator of the association between ACEs and insecure attachment in college students. Data from the Undergraduate Learning, Emotion, Attention, Research Network (U-LEARN) multisite study will be utilized, which includes a sample of approximately 5,123 college students across eight universities in the U.S. A logistic regression model will be used with an interaction term to study whether ADHD symptoms moderate, or worsen, the relation between ACEs and attachment. Results of the present study may influence childhood intervention efforts for youth with ADHD exposed to ACEs, as well as campus resources or interventions to support students with ADHD as they form new relationships in higher education environments.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bommareddy, Nithin	Kacyznski, Andrew	Reframing Health Determinants: A Narrative Review and Introduction of the Macro-Level Determinants of Health (MLDH) Framework View Full Text Abstract Text The issue of healthcare affects every single person on the planet. Illness is a natural part of human life, and thus, effective and efficient healthcare systems are necessary for any successful society. Yet modern healthcare systems remain deeply influenced by a variety of structural and systemic factors that are often underexamined. This paper explores four such factors—Affordability, Proximity to Care, Geopolitics, and Economy—through a narrative review of 37 academic articles and supporting media sources. While these domains are frequently discussed in isolation, they are rarely unified under a common analytical framework. In response, this paper proposes a new conceptual model: the Macro-Level Determinants of Health (MLDH). Unlike the widely used Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) model, which tends to focus on individual and community-level influences, the MLDH model centers structural, national, and transnational factors as primary drivers of population health. By articulating a scalable and policy-relevant framework, this model provides a more holistic understanding of how systemic conditions shape health outcomes—laying the groundwork for more effective interventions and reforms.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Calamusa, Sydney	Reagan, Lawrence Wood, Susan	The role of vagal withdrawal in cardiovascular complications emerging in a rodent model of Gulf War illness View Full Text Abstract Text Gulf War illness (GWI) affects over 250,000 veterans. During the Gulf War, soldiers received pyridostigmine bromide (PB), an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, to protect against nerve gas exposure. Given prior studies linking PB administration to cardiovascular disease in GWI, the goal of this study was to investigate whether PB, alone or combined with 14 days of repeated restraint stress (RRS), induces lasting cardiovascular impairments, particularly during subsequent exposure to acute stress and immune challenges. Shortly after repeated stress, during the early phase, an acute stress challenge slowed the return to autonomic balance in these animals due to lingering sympathetic overactivation. To assess the progressive nature of GWI approximately 100 days post-treatment in the late phase, PB-treated rats exhibited a lower heart rate during stress. RRS alone increased vagal withdrawal, but combined PB and RRS blunted this response. RRS alone increased mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and heart rate variability, whereas PB+RRS attenuated these responses to lipopolysaccharide. The QRS interval on an ECG, which represents the period of ventricular depolarization, widens across all stress-exposed groups, indicating ongoing electrical remodeling and a higher arrhythmia risk, consistent with observations in veterans with GWI. Together, these findings suggest that shifts in autonomic tone may represent a potential mechanism impacted by PB administration and chronic stress that can promote cardiovascular dysfunction, particularly following subsequent stress and immune challenges.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Bui, Sidney	Ely, Bert	Purification and Genome Size Determination of Novel Bacteriophages Using SC1004 View Full Text Abstract Text Bacteriophages are abundant and genetically diverse viruses that play essential roles in microbial ecology and have important biotechnological applications. In a college-level microbiology course, undergraduate students isolated bacteriophages from environmental water samples collected across South Carolina, including Rocky Branch Creek, the Congaree River, Irmo Pond, the Thomas Cooper Fountain, and Granby Park. These isolates were subsequently purified and genomically characterized. Using the bacterial host strain SC1004, individual phages were purified through successive plaque assays to establish clonal populations. Plaque morphology was documented and found to be largely consistent among isolates, with plaques appearing predominantly clear, circular, and varying primarily in diameter. Spot dilution assays were conducted to determine phage titers and generate high-titer lysates for downstream analysis. Genomic material was extracted, and PCR amplification was performed to increase DNA yield prior to submission for genome sequencing. Agarose gel electrophoresis and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis were used to estimate relative genome sizes. Acridine orange staining was conducted to differentiate DNA and RNA phages, confirming several isolates as DNA bacteriophages. Although plaque morphology showed limited variation, differences in estimated genome size and titer suggest genetic diversity among phages recovered from distinct aquatic environments. These findings provide preliminary genomic data to support ongoing sequencing efforts and demonstrate the value of integrating undergraduate research with focused molecular characterization.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Freedman, Jordana	Welshhans, Kristy Rygel, Katelyn	Dysregulation of Ribosomes and Focal Adhesions May Contribute to Altered Motility of Down Syndrome Fibroblasts View Full Text Abstract Text Down syndrome (DS), caused by the trisomy of human chromosome 21, is characterized by a range of phenotypes, including intellectual disability, congenital heart defects, and impaired wound healing. This study investigates the cellular mechanisms underlying delayed healing in DS by focusing on fibroblasts, which are essential for migration to and repair of injury sites. Two critical processes regulate fibroblast motility: focal adhesion assembly and local translation, which occurs at focal adhesion sites. Focal adhesions, stabilized by proteins such as vinculin, serve as the mechanical link between the cytoskeleton and the extracellular matrix, while local translation enables site-specific protein synthesis required for directional movement. Previous work from our lab has shown that fibroblast motility is decreased in DS. Moreover, local translation at the motile leading edge of DS fibroblasts is significantly reduced. To understand the mechanisms underlying these changes, we examined the expression of focal adhesion proteins and ribosomal proteins in whole cells and in the leading edge of DS fibroblasts. Using a starve-and-stimulate paradigm and immunocytochemistry, we visualized the distribution of the focal adhesion protein, vinculin, and the ribosomal proteins RPL7a and RPS6. The results demonstrate that both ribosomal proteins and vinculin are significantly decreased throughout the whole cell in DS. We are currently investigating the expression of these proteins at the leading edge and quantifying the colocalization of ribosomal proteins with vinculin. Because focal adhesion dynamics and local translation regulate directed movement and are conserved across many cell types, including neurons, our findings suggest changes in these mechanisms may contribute to a wide spectrum of DS phenotypes beyond wound healing, including the intellectual disability phenotype of this disorder.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Horton, Brielle	Martin, Pamela Parker, Prince	Building Youth Resilience: A Preliminary Evaluation of the Lower Richland Disaster Preparedness C.E.A.L. Program View Full Text Abstract Text Decades of empirical scholarship have demonstrated that environmental hazards are not distributed evenly across communities, with racially and economically marginalized populations experiencing elevated exposure to pollution and disaster-related risks (Banzhaf et al., 2019; Kelly-Reif et al., 2016; Macias, 2016; Medina et al., 2022). In Lower Richland, South Carolina, the long-term effects of the 2015 historic flood continue to shape community concerns about recurrent flooding, chemical incidents, and wildfire threats. These persistent risks highlight the need for locally grounded strategies that strengthen preparedness and environmental stewardship. In response, the Lower Richland Disaster Preparedness and Resiliency Citizens Earning and Learning (C.E.A.L.) Science Initiative was established to cultivate youth leadership in disaster readiness, environmental monitoring, and environmental justice advocacy. This study presents a preliminary pre-post evaluation of a summer program implemented with high school students at Lower Richland High School. The program aimed to: (1) educate students about flooding, chemical release, and wildfire preparedness; (2) train youth to develop water and air monitoring protocols and contribute to a community database capturing baseline, routine, and deviant environmental recordings; (3) build community capacity to address environmental justice concerns; and (4) expand students’ knowledge, networks, and experiential exposure to environmental justice careers, including water, soil, sewer, and wastewater management pathways. Fourteen students participated in the summer program. Descriptive statistics from the pre- and post-test assessments will be conducted to examine disaster preparedness knowledge, environmental monitoring self-efficacy, understanding of environmental justice concepts, and interest in related career pathways over the duration of the program. Implications for future research include longitudinal tracking of participants’ civic engagement and STEM trajectories, refinement of youth-led environmental data systems, and integration of community-based participatory approaches to sustain intergenerational resilience. This evaluation underscores the potential of youth-centered, place-based environmental justice education to advance preparedness and community trust in historically vulnerable regions.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Nesmelova, Anna	Frizzell, Norma Cox, Hunter	Exploring the Oxidative Modification of Lysine by Urate View Full Text Abstract Text Several studies have shown that low serum urate levels are associated with accelerated Parkinson’s Disease (PD) progression. Under oxidative conditions, urate is converted to a urate radical, which can continue to degrade further into potentially reactive compounds. Oxidative uratylation describes the addition of urate-derived electrophiles to nucleophilic amino acid residues, which can alter protein function. This modification may alternatively explain why serum urate levels are low in people with neurological diseases linked to oxidative stress. The objective of this project was to purify a uratylated lysine standard that I synthesized to enable the detection and quantification of uratylation in human serum. Last year, I generated the standard for quantitative mass spectrometry to quantify free uratylated lysine. Several steps are used in purification of my standard. (1) C18 zip tips are used to remove the myeloperoxidase (MPO) from the sample, (2) I optimized MCX ion exchange chromatography to enrich the standard. I also cultured HL-60 cells, which were then differentiated to neutrophils using dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). Neutrophils naturally produce MPO as a part of the immune response and are useful in replication of the uratylated lysine. I activated the neutrophils using phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) to stimulate the oxidative burst. Undifferentiated, differentiated, and differentiated + PMA-activated neutrophils were incubated in the presence of urate, lysine, and hydrogen peroxide to enhance uratylation. Mass spectrometric analysis of these samples suggest that uratylation is reproduced under physiological conditions. Overall, my research has elucidated a novel biomarker for early detection of Parkinson’s Disease, and this methodology will be applied to human serum in future studies.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Guy, Henry	Pinckney, Jay	Abiotic Determinants of Intertidal Benthic Microalgal Communities View Full Text Abstract Text As key drivers of neritic primary productivity, benthic microalgae (BMA) play essential roles in biogeochemical cycling and estuarine food webs. When considered alongside their shallow, restricted habitats, BMA contribute disproportionately to global carbon fixation. However, the extent of human impact on BMA communities is largely unknown. This study aimed to quantify anthropogenic forcing through specific abiotic drivers of benthic microalgal success. BMA biomass, community composition, porewater nutrients, and sediment composition were measured within two South Carolina Estuaries. North Inlet and Murrells Inlet share similar geographic and morphological characteristics but differ significantly in terms of watershed population. Dissolved phosphate, nitrate, and ammonium were measured spectrophotometrically. Grain size distributions were collected using standard sorting methods. BMA biomass was quantified fluorometrically, and community composition was determined using a Flowcam and EcoTaxa. Murrells Inlet sites had distinct BMA communities and lower biomass, possibly due to anthropogenic forcings that led to larger grain assemblages and higher phosphate concentrations. Understanding the anthropogenic drivers of BMA structure and distribution provides key insights into the potential abiotic regulation of spatio-temporal patterns of BMA in estuarine intertidal sediments.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Taylor, Zachary	Kloos, Bret Wong, Dylan Christy, Hunter Eagles, Amani	Development of a program model for a parent-focused warmline prevention program: Findings from a narrative review View Full Text Abstract Text Call the Moms and Dads is a warmline in its early phases of development. It emphasizes active, empathetic listening as a means of stress relief and mental wellbeing promotion for callers. Currently intended for any adult in need of emotional support, it utilizes trained, non-professional peer support volunteer call-takers. The program’s activities thus far have not yet fully incorporated insights from the most recent literature, which provides an opportunity to update their approach through a literature review methodology. Preliminary research findings provide evidence of the effectiveness of peer-run warmlines for promoting the mental wellbeing of callers (e.g., reducing the need for crisis services, cultivating effective coping mechanisms, and providing a sense of empowerment); therefore, a comprehensive review of effective techniques and approaches for the provision of peer-run warmline services is warranted. Findings provide suggestions regarding appropriate conversational frameworks that call-takers can utilize while speaking to callers, as well as specific competencies that should be developed by call-takers during training. We undertook a narrative review methodology to determine the appropriate scope of the warmline, and effective approaches for caller engagement, combining findings from the literature on warmlines and related program types (e.g., peer support) into a formal program model. An initial literature search phase was conducted to guide program development. Relevant articles were collected via PsycInfo, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Specific program development research questions were developed and additional literature searches were conducted to supplement our findings. Guided by approaches such as Intervention Mapping (Bartholomew et al., 2016) and the FORECAST Tool (Katz et al., 2013), research findings were organized into a logic model of the problem and a logic model of the solution. Additionally, we will describe potential applications and implications of this model for the iterative development of the warmline prevention program and next steps for its implementation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Pana, Andrew	Ellermann, Melissa	Impact of Lipids on Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium IR715 Growth View Full Text Abstract Text Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is a bacterial pathogen that infects the gastrointestinal tract of humans. Once S. Typhimurium enters the gut, the bacterium interacts with a complex environment of microorganisms and metabolites, including host derived and dietary lipid molecules. Certain lipid molecules can have antimicrobial effects on S. Typhimurium, while others can be used as energy sources, improving survival of the bacterium. This project aimed to determine which lipid molecules influence the growth of S. Typhimurium IR715 in vitro in nutrient-rich Luria-Bertani broth at 37C with shaking at 250 rotations per minute. IR715 is a derivative of an S. Typhimurium strain that was originally isolated from heart and liver tissues of 4-week-old chickens. This strain was selected because it is less characterized relative to other strains such as SL1344. To determine whether the lipid of interest altered IR715 growth, we measured bacterial growth and doubling times across a range of lipid treatments using a spectrophotometer. Acetate, between the concentrations of 31.75-63.51 mM, significantly decreased doubling time and extended lag phase without significantly reducing final density. Docosahexaenoic acid, at a concentration of 237.5 M, significantly increased doubling time and slightly increased optical density throughout the growth period. Lauric acid, at a concentration of 1.56 mM, significantly reduced IR715 growth through the growth period. Sphingosine, at a concentration of 18.75 M, completely inhibited IR715 growth. While not all tested lipids produced significant effects, the results support the initial hypothesis that specific lipid molecules can alter S. Typhimurium growth. This indicates that lipid structure and concentration are potential determinants of bacterial growth in the host environment. Understanding how dietary and host-derived lipids influence S. Typhimurium growth provides insight into how the host environment influences S. Typhimurium colonization.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Witzel, Caroline	Reagan, Lawrence Grillo, Claudia Maciejewska, Natalia Calamusa, Sydney Rehm, Jayshree Woodruff, Jennifer	The use of DREADDs to identify a leptin receptor circuit in the rat brain View Full Text Abstract Text In addition to regulating peripheral metabolism, leptin also facilitates hippocampal synaptic plasticity. While locally expressed leptin receptors (LepRs) facilitate hippocampal plasticity, less is known regarding the potential role of lateral hypothalamus (LH) LepRs in hippocampal function. We hypothesize that a leptin-mediated brain pathway from the lateral hypothalamus (LH) to the locus coeruleus (LC) to the hippocampus enhances hippocampal neuroplasticity, including cognition. To test this hypothesis, we developed a lentiviral vector that expresses the designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs; hM3Di) under the control of the LepR promoter. This DREADD was injected bilaterally into the LH of adult male Sprague-Dawley rats to specifically activate our hypothesized LH to LC to hippocampus circuit. Validation of the efficacy of the lentiviral constructs was confirmed by immunofluorescence (fIHC) for the reporter gene mCherry and/or a marker of neuronal activation (c-fos). Immunofluorescence identified the expression of mCherry in the LH, which validates the accuracy of the viral injections and the successful expression of the construct. Administration of the DREADD ligand JHU37160 (J60; 0.3 mg/kg) increased fos-like immunoreactivity (FLI) that was colocalized with tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) positive neurons in the LC, demonstrating that chemogenetic activation of LepR-positive neurons in the LH activates the LC. Intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of leptin (1 μg) also increased FLI in TH-positive cells in the LC. However, we also observed FLI beyond the LC, including FLI lining the 4th ventricle. These results demonstrate that J60 treatment is specifically activating a LepR-mediated LH to LC circuit, while ICV leptin administration is more broadly activating leptin circuits and locally expressed LepRs. Our ongoing studies also demonstrate that J60 administration significantly enhances hippocampal-dependent learning and memory. Collectively, these results support our hypothesis that LepRs activate a LH to LC to hippocampal circuit that facilitates hippocampal synaptic plasticity.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bhutani, Mira	Perumal, Nandita Owiredu, David	Growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes of HIV-affected children born small and vulnerable in low-and middle-income countries: a systematic review View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Children with perinatal HIV exposure are at increased risk of adverse birth outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight (LBW), and small for gestational age (SGA), particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Both perinatal HIV exposure and adverse birth outcomes independently influence suboptimal growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes later in life; however, the joint effects of these exposures on longer-term child outcomes have not been systematically studied. Purpose: We conducted a systematic review to evaluate whether the relationship between HIV-exposure (HIV-exposed and infected, HIV-exposed but uninfected) and child growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes is modified by adverse birth status (LBW, SGA, or preterm). Methods: We systematically searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science without language or date restrictions to identify peer-reviewed studies that reported on growth or neurodevelopmental outcomes among children ≤10 years with perinatal HIV exposure and adverse birth outcomes. Studies that reported on outcomes in the neonatal period only (<30 days after birth), did not assess adverse birth outcomes, or did not record growth or neurodevelopmental outcomes were excluded. Title and abstract screening and full-text screening were conducted in duplicate. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD420261294975). Results: Of the 1,578 titles and abstracts identified after deduplication, 109 full-text articles are undergoing full-text screening, with 28 articles included so far. The results will be summarized narratively, and risk of bias for each study assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale will be presented. Implications: This review addresses a critical gap in understanding how adverse birth outcomes shape long-term growth and development of HIV-exposed children in LMICs. By identifying children at risk of growth or developmental delays, findings can inform public health practice by supporting early risk stratification and intervention strategies for children with multiple vulnerabilities, strengthening optimal maternal-child HIV care, and reducing health inequities in high-burden settings.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Jacob-Bell, Natalie	Steiner, Alex	Kennedy's Cause View Full Text Abstract Text Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals 10-34 years old in the United States, highlighting the urgent need for innovative and accessible prevention strategies, especially for teens and young adults. This thesis investigates how community-based mental health awareness campaigns, particularly those implemented on social media can reduce stigma, increase comfort discussing mental health, and encourage help-seeking behavior. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study surveyed 105 participants to assess the perceived effectiveness of social media in promoting suicide prevention awareness and mental health literacy. Quantitative findings demonstrated significant improvements in participants’ comfort discussing mental health following exposure to the awareness campaign, while qualitative data revealed recurring themes of destigmatization, emotional resonance, and the importance of peer connection. The accompanying campaign, Kennedy’s Cause, functioned as both a memorial initiative and an active form of public health outreach, combining storytelling, education, and community engagement to foster open dialogue and compassion. Results support the argument that carefully designed, research-informed social media campaigns can meaningfully influence attitudes and behaviors surrounding mental health and suicide prevention, particularly among young adults.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Stewart, Meredith	Hosseini, Seyyadamirhossein Stewart, Skylar	Mechanistic Analysis of the Electrochemical Reduction of o-Nitrobenzaldehyde at Strongly Reducing Potentials View Full Text Abstract Text Nitroarene reduction is a multistep proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) process that generates several reactive intermediates prior to the formation of the corresponding amine. In ortho-nitrobenzaldehyde (o-NBA), the proximity of the nitro and aldehyde groups enables simultaneous reduction followed by intramolecular cyclization. Although this transformation has been widely reported, its mechanistic details remain insufficiently explored. This work investigates how applied potential and supporting electrolyte composition govern product distribution in the electrochemical reduction of o-NBA. Experiments were carried out in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) using tetrabutylammonium tetrafluoroborate (TBABF₄) and lithium perchlorate (LiClO₄) as supporting electrolytes. Cyclic voltammetry was first employed to characterize electrolyte-dependent redox behavior, revealing distinct reduction profiles in each medium. Bulk electrolysis was then performed at a range of potentials in a divided cell containing 5 mM substrate and 50 mM phenol. Constant current electrolysis (CCE) and controlled potential electrolysis (CPE) were evaluated as complementary approaches; while CCE maintains a fixed current and allows the electrode potential to shift during reaction progress, CPE fixes the potential at a defined value, improving experimental precision and mechanistic clarity. Product analysis by GC/MS, LC/MS, and NMR spectroscopy revealed marked electrolyte-dependent selectivity, and it was found that the formation of benzoxazole is an intermediate for o-NBA to form 2-aminobenzaldehyde (2-ABA). Additionally, 2-AAB was identified to undergo self-condensation to form a trimer structure that was observed through LC/MS. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that supporting electrolyte identity and electrolysis methodology significantly impact reaction selectivity and provide mechanistic insight into nitroarene reduction pathways.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Aguilar Alvarez, Ricardo	Jasnow, Aaron	Cholinergic release in the anterior cingulate cortex is independent of stimulus saliency but may provide a teaching signal for learning context and cued fear View Full Text Abstract Text The ability to learn contextual and explicitly cued fear responses is essential for an organism’s survival, enabling animals to use predictive cues to shape future behavior and identify potential threats. A key component of this process is discriminating between contexts and cues that predict threat and relative safety. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is a key node in contextual and cued fear expression and in fear generalization, yet the signals that shape these behaviors remain unclear. Here, we used an acetylcholine (ACh) sensor and fiber photometry to record ACh release in the ACC during auditory fear conditioning, recall, and extinction. Foot-shock presentations reliably evoked ACC ACh release, but this response did not reflect stimulus salience: ACh did not scale with shock intensity and was not robustly recruited by novel tones, even at aversive intensities. During conditioning, ACh release occurred during the unconditioned stimulus (US; shock), consistent with a role in encoding threat. Strikingly, during fear memory recall and early extinction in a novel context, presentation of the conditioned stimulus (CS; tone) was accompanied by ACh release. This cue-locked ACh signal was progressively suppressed during extinction, paralleling the reduction in freezing as the CS was repeatedly presented without reinforcement. Together, these findings indicate that ACC cholinergic signaling does not convey stimulus saliency, as it may in the amygdala. However, ACh release shifts backward in time from the US to the predictive CS, consistent with a teaching signal that supports the acquisition and updating of cue-specific fear memories. Suppression of this signal during extinction suggests a mechanistic link between cortical ACh dynamics and the learning processes that shape fear suppression during extinction.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Duckett, Wes Merkle, Daniel	Arjmandi, Meisam	Interaural Spectral Mismatch and Spectral Speech Cue Weighting Across Cochlear Implant Listening Configurations View Full Text Abstract Text Listening configuration influences speech perception outcomes in cochlear implant (CI) users, yet the mechanisms underlying these differences remain unclear. One potential factor is interaural spectral mismatch, which occurs when frequency information is represented differently across ears due to electrode placement, residual acoustic hearing, or cochlear anatomy. This review examines how interaural spectral mismatch across unilateral, bimodal, and bilateral CI listening configurations may influence the perceptual weighting of spectral speech cues during speech sound identification. When spectral information differs across ears, listeners may shift reliance toward different cue regions or adopt alternative perceptual strategies for speech categorization. Relevant literature was identified through searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using combinations of keywords including cochlear implant, interaural mismatch, bimodal hearing, bilateral cochlear implants, and speech cue weighting. Studies examining spectral cue processing or speech perception outcomes across listening configurations were included. Across studies, configuration-dependent differences in speech perception are consistently observed, yet relatively few investigations directly examine how listening configuration alters spectral cue weighting strategies. This synthesis suggests that interaural spectral mismatch may play a key role in shaping how CI users prioritize spectral information during speech perception. Understanding these mechanisms may inform CI programming strategies aimed at improving speech perception outcomes and highlights the need for future work directly measuring spectral cue weighting across listening configurations.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Scott, Caitlin	Parrish, Michael Bonilha, Leonardo Sen, Souvik	Accelerated Brain Aging Predicts Alzheimer’s Disease Neuropathological Changes Post-Mortem View Full Text Abstract Text Alzheimer's Disease’s (AD) growing incidence reinforces the critical need for early biomarker detection for patients with dementia risk. Post-mortem autopsy is the gold standard for confirming underlying AD pathology. Conversely, deep learning, a machine learning subtype using multilayer neural networks to identify complex data patterns, has been successfully applied to neuroimaging to predict biological brain age from structural MRI. Prior research suggests accelerated brain aging relates to underlying AD neuropathological burden. However, specific associations between accelerated brain aging with AD neuropathology confirmed with autopsy remain undefined. The present study examined whether brain age gap, calculated as the difference between predicted and actual age, predicted high (vs. low) AD neuropathology (neurofibrillary tangles, neuritic plaques, and amyloid beta plaque) at autopsy. Multiple logistic regression adjusting for age at death and biological sex, was performed on a sample of 102 participants from the neuropathology cohort of the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), with brain age gap estimated using the Pyment deep learning tool applied to T1-weighted structural MRI. The cohort included participants across three diagnostic groups: cognitively normal (CN), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Brain age gap was a significant positive predictor of post-mortem AD neuropathological change (ADNC), indicating that accelerated brain aging was associated with greater odds of high neuropathology (OR = 1.127, 95% CI: 1.018 – 1.248 p = .022). To test robustness, we repeated this analysis, including only AD and MCI groups and found similar results (OR = 1.132, 95% CI: 1.008 – 1.272, p = .037). These findings help determine the association between deep learning-based brain aging approaches and AD neuropathological. Premature aging may be related to other factors such as cardiovascular disease, and these results provide initial insight into the complex factors associated with premature brain aging and its predictive value toward cognitive impairment.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Grove, Emma Van Horne, Kate	Waldman, Alan	Genomic instability as a driver of aging: consequences of reduced ZMPSTE24 expression on DNA repair pathway choice View Full Text Abstract Text ZMPSTE24 protease plays a key role in the posttranslational processing of lamin A, an essential protein in a structure called the nuclear lamina that plays a critical role in a variety of nuclear functions. Mutations that reduce or eliminate expression of ZMPSTE24 result in disorders that shorten lifespan and produce symptoms of premature aging. Interestingly, ZMPSTE24 levels are also believed to decrease naturally during the aging process. The form of lamin A produced in the absence of ZMPSTE24 is permanently farnesylated and methylated. Previous studies from our lab and other groups have shown that other mutant forms of lamin A that are incompletely processed disrupt the repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and cause a decreased ability to maintain genomic integrity. Changes in DNA repair have also been associated with the normal aging process. To enhance our understanding of both the biology of aging as well as ZMPSTE24 deficiency disorders, we are investigating the effects of ZMPSTE24 deficiency on DNA repair. To do so, we have used CRISPR/Cas9 to knock out the ZMPSTE24 gene in a human fibroblast cell line that contains a DNA repair reporter construct. A DSB can be induced within the substrate through expression of endonuclease I-SceI, and DSB repair events occurring via either homologous recombination (HR) or nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) are recoverable by genetic selection. HR is an accurate and templated form of repair, while NHEJ is an error-prone non-templated rejoining of DNA ends. We aim to reveal the impact that ZMPSTE24 deficiency has on DSB repair by investigating if repair pathway choice is altered in the absence of ZMPSTE24. Preliminary results are suggestive of a shift toward DSB repair via error-prone NHEJ. We present our ongoing studies using our model system to investigate the effects of ZMPSTE24 deficiency on genome integrity.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Gerstein, Caitlin	Fillo, Jennifer	Discrepancies in perception of romantic partner alcohol use among military couples View Full Text Abstract Text US military service members/veterans and their romantic partners are at high risk for alcohol misuse. Not only can higher drinking quantity/frequency negatively impact relationship functioning and stability, but research suggests that individuals’ perceptions of their partner’s drinking may also play an important role. However, previous research has not examined relative importance of these factors simultaneously. To clarify these effects, this project examined (1) factors predicting discrepancies in perceptions of partner drinking, and (2) discrepancy’s connection to relationship functioning over time among military couples. Data were taken from a longitudinal study of US Army Reserve/National Guard soldiers and their spouses/partners (N=822 individuals/411 dyads). Drinking frequency and quantity discrepancy variables were calculated by subtracting partners’ self-report from individuals’ perception of their partner’s drinking. Models predicting discrepancy variables examined the main and interactive effects of sex, military status, and individual and partner self-reported drinking. Models predicting relationship functioning variables included sex, military status, individual and partner self-reported drinking, and alcohol discrepancy variables. Across all models, females consistently overestimated their partners’ drinking frequency and quantity compared to males. For models predicting frequency discrepancies, sex differences were most pronounced for veterans, compared to service members and civilians. For models predicting quantity discrepancies, individuals’ higher self-reported drinking predicted greater over-estimation of partner drinking quantity. This effect was more pronounced for females. Analyses predicting relationship functioning are in progress and will be included in the final presentation. Results revealed that sex, military status, and individuals’ own drinking habits impact their tendency to over- or under-estimate their partners' drinking behaviors. Notably, females demonstrated consistent tendencies to overestimate partner drinking, whereas males were more likely to be accurate or underestimate. These findings provide valuable information on factors contributing to alcohol-related perceptual discrepancies and their impact on relationship functioning, which can inform couples-focused interventions for military couples.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Rescorl, Ziana	Fillo, Jennifer	Mental Health and Relationship Instability Among US Military Couples View Full Text Abstract Text PTSD is the most common mental health condition among US military service members (SMs). Mental health problems affect not only the SM, but also their romantic relationships. Whereas previous research has focused almost exclusively on the effects of SMs’ mental health on the relationship, spouses may also experience mental health issues that can harm relationship functioning. This project examined within- and between-person effects of mental health on relationship instability among military couples. Data were drawn from a longitudinal study of US Army Reserve/National Guard soldiers and their spouses/partners (N=172 male-female dyads). Relationship instability was measured as progressive steps partners took toward ending the relationship (e.g., thought about ending relationship, serious discussions with partner, contacted lawyer about divorce). Path analyses examined within- and between-person effects of negative mental health symptoms (i.e., depression, PTSD, anger) on each person’s report of relationship instability, controlling for SM sex. There was no evidence of between-person effects for any mental health variables. However, results revealed significant within-person effects of PTSD and anger on relationship instability, regardless of SM or civilian status. Participants with greater PTSD symptoms and anger reported taking more steps toward ending the relationship. Individuals’ relationship instability at baseline predicted their own report at follow-up, and SM relationship instability at baseline also predicted their partner’s report at follow-up. Results suggest that both SMs’ and partners’ mental health may have important implications for the stability of military marriages, particularly PTSD symptoms and anger. Effects were largely intra-personal; however, steps taken by SMs’ toward ending the relationship appeared to carry over to impact their partner’s behavior one year later. Future research should examine mechanisms through which these effects may occur. Findings underscore the importance of looking beyond the SM and highlight potential targets for future interventions supporting military couples.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Harris, Jonathan	Fillo, Jennifer	The Role of Spouse Social Control in Changes in Problem Drinking During Treatment View Full Text Abstract Text Despite a large literature demonstrating the positive impact of romantic partners for supporting drinking reduction, much less is known about the underlying mechanisms. Social control—deliberate attempts to influence another’s health-related behavior—is a promising candidate, but variation in conceptualization and measurement specificity has led to mixed findings. To clarify these effects, the present research examined the effects of romantic partner social control on changes in client drinking over the course of treatment, comparing the predictive power of a more general (2 factor) vs. more specific (4 factor) scoring of a popular social control measure—the Partner Interaction Questionnaire (PIQ). Data were drawn from a group treatment study for male “problem-drinkers” (N=64) and their female spouses/partners. Outcomes included change in percentage of days abstinent (%DA) and percentage of days drinking heavily (%DH) during treatment (end-start). PIQ responses were scored in 2-factor (positive/negative) and 4-factor versions (emotional support/instrumental support/complaints about drinking/criticizing drinker). Multiple regression analyses examined the effects of partner social control on change in %DA and %DH, controlling for study condition (partner involvement: yes/no) and drinker age. Separate models examined general (2-factor) and specific (4-factor) PIQ scoring. For %DA, the 2-factor model showed no effects of social control. However, the 4-factor model revealed this was due to nearly equal, but opposite effects of complaints about drinking (b=12.10) and criticizing the drinker (b=-10.06). Conversely, there were synergistic effects of emotional and instrumental support, resulting in a significant effect of positive social control predicting decreases in %DH during treatment (b=-5.68). Taken together, results demonstrate social control as an important mechanism through which romantic partners can support, or undermine, changes in drinking over the course of treatment for heavy drinking. Further, findings highlight the value of more specific conceptualizations of social control, particularly for “negative” strategies.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Sox, Mary Frost, Chadwick	Jasnow, Aaron	Muscarinic Modulation of Fear Learning in the Amygdala View Full Text Abstract Text The Basolateral Amygdala (BLA) is a central region involved in the acquisition and recall of emotional memories. This brain region receives dense cholinergic innervation from the basal forebrain, indicating that Acetylcholine (ACh) likely plays an important role in the formation of emotional memories. However, the exact mechanisms by which ACh regulates BLA function and the formation of emotional memories remain unknown. Here, we demonstrate that inhibition of muscarinic receptors in the BLA drastically reduces fear acquisition and recall of auditory fear learning. In the present experiments, C57BL/6 mice were bilaterally cannulated to target the BLA and received varying doses of scopolamine (0.1 mM, 10 mM, 30 mM, or 100 mM) or vehicle. Compared with saline-treated mice, scopolamine-treated mice showed significant reductions in freezing during both training and a recall test. We confirmed that this reduction in freezing during training was not confounded by hyperlocomotion or an inability to respond to shock. While scopolamine infused locally in the BLA produced significant reductions in freezing, local infusions of scopolamine (100 mM) in the prelimbic cortex had no effect on fear recall, demonstrating regional specificity of the manipulation. Together, our results demonstrate that cholinergic signaling through muscarinic receptors in the BLA plays a critical role in the acquisition and encoding of emotional memories. Future research will focus on determining the subtype of muscarinic receptor responsible and what role, if any, nicotinic receptors play in the acquisition and recall of emotional memories.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Walker, Emily	Rowe, Gerard	Syntheses and Analyses of Metal-Organic Frameworks for Separation of Water Isotopologues View Full Text Abstract Text The ability to purify and separate hydrogen isotopologues is essential for advancing fusion technology. However, current separation techniques are energy-intensive, thus research on alternative methods is highly impactful. One particular approach centers on adsorbent materials, such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). MOFs are porous, highly tunable materials composed of metal nodes and organic linkers. Their characteristic open pore structure has the potential for functionality in multiple areas, including isotopic separation. Most systems studied aim to resolve hydrogen isotopologues (H2/D2/T2); however, water isotopologues (H2O/D2O/T2O) have greater isotope effects and are consequently more distinguishable when assessing isotopic selectivity in MOF materials. Despite MOF research being widely acknowledged in the field of chemistry, there are many frameworks whose functionalities remain understudied. This study focuses on analyzing pre-existing MOF materials that meet the structural and chemical requirements for water isotopologue resolution. Our primary MOF candidate, UiO-66 [Zr6O4(OH)4(BDC)6], is a water-stable, radiation-resistant material that is ideal for isotopic separation in fusion fuel applications. The organic linker in UiO-66, X-benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid (X-BDC), is versatile due to its substitutable 2,5 positions on the benzene ring. The selected X-BDC variants studied (where X = 2,5-NH2, 2,5-OH, 2-NH2, 2-OH) provide insight into the influence that substituted X-UiO-66 has in thermodynamically resolving water isotopologues. Additionally, incorporating larger functional moieties (e.g., imidazole groups) into X,X-NH2-UiO-66 via post-synthetic modifications (PSM) may enhance isotopic resolution. All X-UiO-66 variants were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and subjected to adsorption studies followed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) that determined the degree of isotopic differentiation by X-UiO-66.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hasan, Naureen	Chen, Mengqian Mack, Zachary	Precision-Focused Foundational Training Enhances Measurement Accuracy and Reproducibility in Quantitative Molecular Laboratory Research View Full Text Abstract Text Reliable scientific experimentation depends on precision, consistency, and critical evaluation of variability. This training module was designed to equip undergraduate researchers with foundational skills before they perform advanced procedures like drug preparation and cell culture treatment. Foundational Tasks 1 through 3 focused on core measurement principles. Trainees compared kitchen and analytical balances to assess precision and evaluated variability using mean, standard deviation (SD), and coefficient of variation (CV). Solid powders were weighed to show the challenges of handling different textures and densities, while pipette accuracy was tested across multiple volumes to distinguish accuracy from precision. These exercises developed technical consistency and a better understanding of how small errors can add up. The importance of this foundation is clear during DC Protein Assays and drug treatments. Accurate weighing and volume calculations ensure drug stocks are at the right molarity, which directly affects dosing accuracy. Even small mistakes can shift IC50 values or distort dose-response curves. Data collected from lab trainees across Tasks 1 through 3 show that this training leads to real experimental refinement. By calculating the SD and CV for different tools, students learned that certain methods are much more reliable than others. For example, the meta-analysis of student data confirmed that using a P200 pipette is significantly more accurate than a P1000 when measuring volumes like 100µL or 150µL. Similarly, performing serial dilutions was shown to be a more consistent way to reach low concentrations than trying to weigh out tiny, near-invisible amounts of powder. In my own work with DC protein assays and cell viability, applying these lessons resulted in much tighter replicates and more believable data. This training ensures that instead of just guessing, students now instinctively know which tools will reduce error and improve the quality of our research.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hovey, Katelyn	Peña, Marj Mao, Choi	How Antibiotic Exposure and Westernized Diet Affects Early Onset Colorectal Cancer Susceptibly View Full Text Abstract Text Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer-related death. Although incidence has declined in individuals over 50 years of age, rates have steadily increased since the 1980s in those under 50. This phenomenon, called early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), cannot be fully explained by genetics, as only 13% of cases are linked to hereditary predisposition. These trends suggest environmental exposures that disrupt the gut microbiota could be at play a role. We hypothesized that early-life exposure to antibiotics and a Westernized high-fat diet, can increase susceptibility to EOCRC altering the gut microbiota and causing inflammation in the distal colon. C57BL/6 mice were given three doses of azithromycin beginning at four weeks of age, followed by weekly azoxymethane (AOM) injections to induce tumorigenesis. Mice were kept on either a high-fat or a low-fat diet. There were four experimental groups: PEG/high-fat, PEG/low-fat, azithromycin/high-fat, and azithromycin/low-fat. High-fat diet successfully induced obesity, while low-fat diet mice remained non-obese. We observed no significant differences in proximal colon tumor burden. However, mice exposed to both azithromycin and high-fat diet showed significantly increased tumor burden in the distal colon. Mice on low-fat diet groups did not show increased distal tumorigenesis. These findings suggest that early-life antibiotic exposure enhances susceptibility to EOCRC, particularly when combined with diet-induced obesity. Our results support a model in which microbiome-disrupting environmental exposures contribute to the rising global incidence of EOCRC and highlight modifiable risk factors relevant to prevention strategies.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Smith, Spencer	Goldberg, Kelly	Consumptive Resistance on College Campuses: An Investigation of Foodways on The Historic Horseshoe View Full Text Abstract Text Since 2024 students at the University of South Carolina (USC) Columbia campus have been excavating historic sites on the Horseshoe in order to shed more light on the history of slavery on campus. Throughout these excavations artifacts recovered included materials such as worked bone objects, bone buttons and brushes. I will analyze these objects to observe how everyday foodway practices were used by enslaved people as a means of resistance against institutional oppression. Food remains from this site can provide information on how enslaved people navigated and engaged with local resources, knowledge, and networks. In this we can explore how resources, knowledge, and local connections were used as forms of resistance against tyranny. This research can be used to explore how the use of resources, networks, and knowledge affected how enslaved people interacted with foodways, when it came to increasing agency within abusive power structures. By using historical and archeological data to compare and contrast the histories of USC and other universities we can further explore how evidence of resistance varied among people enslaved on college campuses. This will further shed light on the myriad of ways in which enslaved people actively resisted systems of oppression throughout the U.S.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bozarth, Suzannah	Mousseau, Timothy	The Radioecological Risks of Oil and Gas View Full Text Abstract Text Technologically enhanced naturally occurring radioactive material (TENORM) is an under-recognized byproduct of oil and gas development. Radionuclides from the uranium- and thorium-decay series, and their daughter isotopes like Ra–226, Ra-228, and Pb-210 and Po-210, can become mobilized in brine and drill cuttings and subsequently concentrated in solid wastes (e.g., scale, sludge). With nearly 2 trillion barrels of crude oil produced annually, between four and ten times that much liquid radioactive waste is generated. Although petroleum-associated radioactivity has been documented for decades, public and scientific awareness outside specialized fields remains limited, with TENORM often treated as a niche occupational hazard. Here we conduct a thorough review of known knowledge related to this hazard to determine if TENORM should be a higher public health and environmental concern. Across international and interdisciplinary studies, activity concentrations, exposure pathways, and their estimated risks are highly heterogeneous, varying by orders of magnitude, dependent on reservoir geology, production method, and waste handling. Biological evidence is relatively sparse but includes indications of genotoxicity, oxidative stress, and bioaccumulation under certain conditions, alongside the gaping uncertainty regarding chronic, low-dose exposures, particularly for internal exposure to alpha emitters and radon progeny. Given the ubiquity of TENORM wastes and the potential for persistent environmental hazards, a higher and more consistent level of regulatory oversight would be expected. Instead, governance remains intentionally fragmented, with uneven monitoring requirements, disposal standards, and enforcement. This work highlights priority knowledge gaps and recommends greater transparency, harmonized monitoring, and targeted biological and ecological research to better characteristic risk and management guidelines.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Mokhtarnejad, Mehrnoush	McCartin, Lyda	Toward an AI-Driven Solution for Smarter Grocery Shopping View Full Text Abstract Text Background: AI–driven mobile applications can transform how individuals plan, and manage food and grocery shopping, thereby promoting more sustainable practices. This mixed-methods study explores university students’ behaviors and preferences in the context of designing an AI-powered tool for waste reduction and grocery shopping. Methods: Data was collected from university students via 46 online survey participants and 8 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis to identify behavioral patterns and design priorities. Results: Students who shopped more frequently produced less food waste. Thematic analysis revealed five key priorities for an AI tool: smart grocery assistance, inventory tracking, spoilage alerts, visual freshness cues, and location-based recommendations. Conclusion: Findings suggest that user-centered, adaptive AI applications integrating personalized recommendations and inventory management can effectively support sustainable grocery shopping and reduce food waste among students. Keywords: Artificial intelligence, Food waste, Grocery Shopping, University students, User-centered	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Rajaji Sivaranjani, Anuvarshini Joby Chacko, Angelina	Lu, Qun Chen, Yan-Hua Dixon, Emma	Spatial Regulation of ASAP1 Phosphorylation in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Human View Full Text Abstract Text Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that progressively affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord causing muscle weakness, paralysis, and ultimately death. The most common genetic cause of this disease is a hexanucleotide repeat expansion (GGGGCC) in the non-coding region of the C9orf72 gene, affecting the C9orf72-SMCR8-WdR41 (CSW) complex. This complex acts as a GTPase-activating protein (GAP) which regulates intracellular trafficking by small GTPase, ARF1. ARF1 activity is also controlled by ARF1-GAP, ASAP1. When ASAP1(Tyr782) is phosphorylated by Src and Pyk2, it leaves ARF1 in a sustained GTP-bound form, over-activating ARF1 to cause dysregulation of vesicle transport. To investigate ARF1 dysregulation associated with ALS, we used immunohistochemistry (IHC) to analyze the expression levels of phosphorylated ASAP1(Tyr782) of the posterior frontal motor cortex (PFMC), cerebellum, and hippocampus formation (HF) from non-ALS control, C9orf72 ALS, and a sporadic ALS (sALS) patient. IHC analysis revealed that phosphorylated ASAP1(Tyr782) expression was altered between non-ALS control, sALS, and C9orf72 ALS in each brain region. In PFMC, phosphorylated ASAP1 (Tyr782) expression was increased in both sALS and C9orf72 ALS when compared to the non-ALS control. In cerebellum, there was no significant difference in ASAP1 signaling patterns between control, sALS, and C9orf72 ALS, while in HF, there was a marginal increase of phosphorylated ASAP1 (Tyr782) expression. Additionally, we observed the greatest ASAP1 (Tyr782) expression signal in sALS, followed by C9orf72 ALS, and then controls. These findings suggest a region-specific dysregulation of ASAP1 in ALS, supporting that altered ARF1 signaling may contribute to disease mechanisms. Supported by NIH R01GM146257/OD031672 and VA Biomedical Laboratory Research & Development Service.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Patel, Om	Schools, Gary	Expression of CDK8 and CDK19 in Mouse Tissue Development and Cancer Progression View Full Text Abstract Text Cancer progression is partly driven by dysregulated transcription, yet the roles of specific regulators remain incompletely understood. Cyclin-dependent kinases 8 and 19 (CDK8/CDK19) are paralogous Mediator kinases that regulate transcription by phosphorylating substrates such as STAT, leading to transcriptional reprogramming required for adaptation to anti-cancer therapies. Although CDK8 has been linked to oncogenic signaling, the distinct and overlapping roles of CDK8 and CDK19 in development and tumorigenesis remain largely unexplored. Individual cells preferentially express either CDK8 or CDK19, rarely both at similar levels, suggesting functional divergence. This study examines their differential roles in transcription, differentiation, and cancer progression using transgenic mouse models. Previous work in the lab developed a mouse model that enables CDK19 knockout (KO) and conditional CDK8 knockout via Tamoxifen, avoiding embryonic lethality of CDK8 KO. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that CDK8 and CDK19 are undetectable in several organs of the double KO (DKO) mice and that CDK8 and CDK19 are differentially expressed in the testes and prostate in wild-type (w.t.) mice. We used syngeneic orthotopic transplantation of EO771 mouse mammary tumors in w.t., CDK19 KO, and CDK8/19 DKO mice. Tumors were analyzed by immunofluorescence for CDK8/19 and markers of fibroblasts, angiogenesis, and proliferation. Fluorescence microscopy showed CDK8/19 absence in stromal and juxta-tumoral regions and decreased tumor-associated fibroblasts and vasculature in some DKO sections versus WT and CDK19 KO; however, these differences were not statistically significant in this small cohort and are being reassessed in a larger study. These findings support the CDK8/19 DKO model for studying breast cancer and suggest a role in regulating tumor-promoting fibroblasts. Further study may reveal therapeutic targets and clarify how Mediator signaling drives cancer progression and transcriptional reprogramming.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
McCay, Palmer	King, Sarah	Vietnam Veterans Oral History Project: Process, Results, and Significance View Full Text Abstract Text For over 50 years, depictions of Vietnam veterans in American culture, ranging from Forrest Gump’s Lieutenant Dan to Taxi Driver’s Travis Bickle, have misunderstood and misrepresented the Americans who served in Vietnam. Vietnam veterans are all too often depicted as “the baby killer,” less often as the “gentle warrior” who (albeit paternalistically) helps the Vietnamese population by building hospitals and orphanages. Since the 1990s, academic works by historians like Christian Appy, Heather Stur, and Meredith Lair have explored the realities of service and homecoming for this generation of veterans. From these historians and existing oral history collections, we know, for instance, that many Vietnam veterans thought that they were going to “fight a clean war,” like World War II. Existing academic works paint a vivid picture of the lives of individuals who served in Vietnam and underline that Vietnam veterans have extraordinary stories to tell and preserve. Speaking to a Vietnam veteran—someone who served on the ground in one of the most infamous and misunderstood wars of the twentieth century—can help answer questions not yet addressed in the historical literature. Building on a foundation of intensive secondary-source reading, this project asks questions raised by existing academic histories. Currently in year two, this three-year project records interviews with Vietnam veterans and preserves those interviews in a new, open-access digital archive. Year one, led by a student researcher who has now graduated, saw the completion of ten interviews. This is my first year working on the project, and I look forward to completing ten interviews by the end of the current academic year.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Fishel, Katelyn	Chen, Mengqian	Modulating Resistance to Paclitaxel Through Transcriptional Kinase Inhibition in Breast Cancers View Full Text Abstract Text Paclitaxel (Taxol) is commonly used in the treatment of advanced, aggressive and metastatic breast cancer, including Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor positive (HER2\+) and Triple Negative (TNBC) breast cancers. However, resistance to paclitaxel often develops, limiting its potential for long-term use. The aim of this study is to explore the role of transcriptional reprogramming in the development of paclitaxel resistance, focusing specifically on cyclin-dependent kinases 8 and 19 (CDK 8/19), and to investigate how inhibiting these kinases might help reverse or prevent drug resistance. Cyclin-dependent kinases 8 and 19 (CDK 8/19) are components of the mediator complex and play a unique role in transcriptional reprogramming. This distinguishes them from other cyclin-dependent kinases involved directly in cell cycle regulation. CDK 8/19 are involved in modulating transcription factors and gene expression, which influences cellular responses to various stressors, including chemotherapy. By using pharmacological inhibitors of CDK 8/19, we aim to determine if this inhibition can alter or reduce resistance to paclitaxel. Building upon previous research from our lab, which has shown that inhibiting CDK 8/19 enhances the effectiveness of various targeted therapies for breast cancer, here we utilize cells adapted to paclitaxel to determine if CDK8/19 inhibition can reverse resistance to the cytotoxic effects of paclitxel. Adapted cell were treated for up to 8 weeks with our CDK8/19 inhibitor (SNX631-6) and tested for paclitaxel sensitivity using sulforhodamine B cell survival assays. Our goal is to better understand the role these transcriptional kinases play in the development of resistance and to determine the effect inhibition will have on previously developed resistance with the ultimate goal of enhancing the effectiveness of paclitaxel.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Geddes, Grace	Pocivavsek, Ana Piroli, Maria	Sleep-wake dysregulation following increased kynurenic acid in the lateral hypothalamus of rats View Full Text Abstract Text Sleep disturbances are known to occur in individuals with neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Elevated kynurenic acid (KYNA), a byproduct of the kynurenine pathway, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of these disorders. Kynurenine aminotransferase II (KAT II) within astrocytes generates KYNA from kynurenine. Arousal-promoting neurons within the lateral hypothalamus (LH) contribute to sleep-wake cycles and have been linked to neuropsychiatric disorders. We hypothesize that elevated levels of KYNA in the LH will result in sleep disturbances. To investigate this, an astrocyte-targeting adeno-associated virus serotype 5 (AAV 5) containing the gene encoding for the protein KAT II, rat Aadat, was injected into the LH of adult rats. The active virus was denoted “KAT II sense” and the control virus was denoted “control”. Microdialysis in the LH confirmed higher levels of KYNA in KAT II sense rats than controls using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). After microdialysis, the brain of each animal was cut into 40 - 50 micron sections using a cryostat and then stained with neutral red to verify the placement of the canula in the LH. In a separate cohort of rats, sleep telemetry devices were implanted to record electroencephalogram (EEG) and electromyogram (EMG) polysomnography at least 21 days after viral injection. We quantified the amount of wake, non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep duration during a 48 hour period. At 3 weeks post viral injection, we observed REM deficits and increased wake behavior in KAT II sense rats. Ongoing and future experiments are designed to evaluate polysomnography at extended periods, 6 - 9 weeks, after viral injection. Taken together, our results show that elevating levels of KAT II and KYNA in the LH can lead to sleep disturbances in rats, and this translationally relevant work could inform future neuropsychiatric treatments.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Ricard, Serria Wright, Jacob (Eli)	Webb, Emily	Sustainable Mosquito Control: Novel Techniques for Reducing Mosquito-Borne Disease Risk While Preserving Environmental Integrity View Full Text Abstract Text New mosquito control strategies are moving beyond reliance on traditional chemical insecticides and more towards sustainable biological and genetic approaches. Advances in molecular biology have introduced novel tools such as Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), CRISPR-based gene editing, and the release of mosquitoes infected with the endosymbiotic bacterium Wolbachia. These methods aim to reduce mosquito populations or suppress their ability to transmit pathogens by altering vector competence. For example, a recent study found that Wolbachia infection can interfere with pathogen replication and modify mosquito immune responses. Researchers observed that more than forty immune-related genes changed their expression in Anopheles stephensi following a bloodmeal when infected with Wolbachia, leading to crucial effects. In particular, infection with the Wolbachia strain wAlbB was associated with reduced reproductive success and decreased infection by the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Similarly, the SIT reduces mosquito populations through the release of sterilized males that mate with wild females, resulting in no viable offspring. While SIT programs have been promising, they require ongoing releases and can be complemented by emerging technologies such as CRISPR-based genetic modifications. These modifications can target reproductive ability or pathogen transmission. Together, these innovative strategies offer environmentally sustainable alternatives to traditional insecticides by minimizing off-target impacts, reducing the development of insecticide resistance, and either suppressing medically important mosquito populations or interfering with pathogen transmission.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Migliaccio, Cybella	Villena-Alvarez, Juanita Babet	What Are the Long-Term Effects of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) For People with Depression View Full Text Abstract Text This study examines some of the effects of Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) on individuals with depression. A review of existing research was used to assess the impact this treatment could have on symptom relief, cognitive, function, and relapse rates. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a defined as a medical procedure performed under general anesthesia that have controlled electric currents that trigger a brief seizure, leading to changes in brain chemistry that can relieve symptoms of certain mental health disorders (Mayo Clinic, 2023). Findings indicate that ECT is effective in reducing depressive symptoms, with clinical predictors influencing treatment response (McLean Hospital, 2024). As well, advancements in electrode placements, such as bifrontal ECT, may improve outcomes compared to traditional methods (Dunne & McLoughlin, 2012). However, cognitive side effects, memory impairments, are common, and relapse rates remain high without maintenance treatment. The study concludes that ECT is a valuable intervention for severe depression, but its risks and benefits must be carefully considered (Kirov et al., 2021).	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Tyner, Alexandra	Edmunds, Sarah	Life on Their Terms (LOTT): Defining Quality of Life in Neurodivergent Communities View Full Text Abstract Text     The Life on Their Terms (LOTT): Defining Quality of Life in Neurodivergent Communities research study aims to better understand how quality of life is defined and experienced in neurodivergent populations. Current definitions of quality of life may not accurately represent neurodivergent lived experiences because they are influenced and constructed by medical and non-neurodivergent viewpoints (McConachie et al., 2018). The research study uses an accessible survey with structured response options and open-ended questions to investigate how participants define “good” quality of life, along with varying themes of social engagement, autonomy, social and physical environment, interpersonal and community relationships, and support needs.    By centering lived experiences and applying the social model of disability framework, the project seeks to contribute to more inclusive definitions of quality of life that may better inform healthcare practices, disability advocacy, and future research practices. To find themes and variations in how quality of life is perceived and experienced, the study will compare perspectives on quality of life among neurodivergent participants. The ultimate objective is to advance a more person-centered understanding of quality of life that recognizes unique experiences and includes neurodivergent perspectives in quality of life measures. According to preliminary analysis of 18 responses, quality of life is perceived as an all-encompassing experience that includes independence, meaningful engagement in everyday activities, and strong social relationships. Participants found the survey highly acceptable (M=1.5, SD=0.63) and feasible (M=1.25, SD=0.58), rated on a 5-point Likert scale, (1=strongly agree; 5=strongly disagree). Numerous participants reported multiple neurodevelopmental and psychological identities, which suggests that rather than being limited to a single diagnosis, definitions of quality of life may be shaped by complex and overlapping identities. For Discover USC, these qualitative results will be presented in full, along with quantitative results on relative levels of quality of life as reported on standardized measures.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Windsor, Lennox Turner, Kayleigh	Outten, F. Wayne Miller, Kennedy	Elucidating the Molecular Mechanism of Iron–Sulfur Cluster Delivery to IspG through the GrxD–ErpA Trafficking Proteins in Escherichia coli View Full Text Abstract Text Iron-sulfur (Fe-S) clusters are essential biological cofactors involved in gene regulation, electron transfer, and metal homeostasis. A-type carrier (ATC) proteins play a central role in delivering Fe-S clusters to their appropriate apoprotein targets in bacteria and the mitochondrion of eukaryotes. ErpA is an ATC that is required in vivo for maturation of the essential Fe-S dependent enzyme IspG in Escherichia coli. GrxD, the sole monothiol glutaredoxin in E. coli, has been shown to be essential for cluster delivery to both ErpA and IspG under iron-limiting conditions. Our first goal was to establish the order of cluster transfer among GrxD, ErpA, and IspG in vitro using FLPC, UV–visible spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and size–exclusion chromatography. Preliminary experiments suggest that holo-GrxD alone cannot efficiently mature apo-IspG in vitro, while published data from our lab showed that holo-GrxD efficiently transfers its Fe-S cluster to ErpA. These results support a model where ErpA functions downstream of GrxD. Our second goal was to characterize stepwise cluster transfer from GrxD to ErpA. ErpA coordinates its Fe-S cluster using three conserved cysteine residues. We generated Cysteine to Serine mutants of ErpA cluster ligands to probe stepwise cluster transfer between holo-GrxD and mutant ErpA proteins. Elucidating how the GrxD--> ErpA --> IspG cascade works at the molecular level will help clarify the biogenesis and trafficking pathways for Fe-S delivery to essential downstream targets.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Sharma, Deepak	Wu, Yanwen	Investigation of the structural and magnetic contributions to Second Harmonic Generation in non-centrosymmetric BaMnSb2 View Full Text Abstract Text Second Harmonic Generation (SHG) is a powerful nonlinear optical technique that is highly sensitive to symmetry breakings in materials. In this work, we perform temperature -dependence SHG measurements on single crystalline BaMnSb2, a magnetic topological semimetal with a non-centrosymmetric crystal structure and a canted antiferromagnetic order below the transition temperature of (TN ~ 295K). Using SHG polarimetry, we observe an increasing magnetic contribution to the SHG signal below TN while the crystallographic contribution remains relatively unchanged. We also detected a distinct drop in SHG intensity near TN, which we attribute to destructive interference between the crystallographic and magnetic contributions. Simulations that incorporate this interference effect further support this interpretation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Spivey, Georgia	Chen, Mengqian	Modulating Resistance to Paclitaxel Through Transcriptional Kinase Inhibition in Estrogen Receptor positive (ER+) and Triple Negative Breast Cancers (TNBC) View Full Text Abstract Text Paclitaxel, a microtubule stabilizing chemotherapy drug, is often prescribed for advanced, aggressive, or metastatic breast cancer. Unfortunately, paclitaxel resistance can develop. Our laboratory studies changes in transcriptional activity, regulated by Cyclin-dependent kinases 8 and 19 (CDK8/19), that may promote drug resistance in breast cancer and how pharmacological inhibition of CDK8/19 may prevent or reverse drug resistance. The first goal of this project was to generate paclitaxel-resistant cells. After determining baseline sensitivity to paclitaxel in our breast cancer cell lines (ER+: T47D and TNBC: MDA-MB-468) through cell viability assays, cells were treated for several weeks with paclitaxel doses that inhibited 80-90% of cell survival and photographed for growth pattern and cell morphology assessment. MDA-MB-468 cells were able to survive and proliferate at a 2.5 nM dose of paclitaxel after 10 weeks of treatment. Paclitaxel potency decreased in the adapted cells; the IC50 of parental cells was 1.3 nM, whereas the IC50 of adapted cells was 3.1 nM. In combination treatment of paclitaxel with a CDK8/19 small molecule inhibitor (SNX631-6), IC50 values were lower than treatment with paclitaxel alone. T47D cells are currently being treated with 2.5 and 3.0 nM and cell viability assays are ongoing to confirm adaptation. Another goal of this project is to establish durability, where the adapted cells would continue to exhibit resistance after treatment has stopped. This portion is ongoing as cells are on cycles of release and treatment, and durability is being assessed using cell viability assays and IC50 calculations. Elucidating the relationship between CDK8/19 and the propensity for breast cancer cells to develop resistance to standard of care drugs will help identify mechanisms which drive growth in these intractable tumors and may offer targets for treatment development.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Villanueva, Hannah Maja, Mariko	Pena, Marj	Impact of Pediatric Antibiotic-Induced Dysbiosis on Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer View Full Text Abstract Text Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. CRC has been decreasing in individuals over 50 years of age due to increased screening and healthier lifestyle choices. However, its incidence in individuals under 50, known as early onset CRC (EOCRC), has been increasing since the 1980's and is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in patients under 45 years old. Although common risk factors for CRC such as obesity, poor diet, and physical inactivity are linked to EOCRC, the causes as to why otherwise healthy and young individuals are susceptible remains unknown. In this study, we hypothesized that prenatal exposure to antibiotics (Abx) will cause dysbiosis leading to more frequent and aggressive tumors as compared to exposure in later stages of life. We used an A/J mouse model to determine if pre-natal exposure to Abx increases the risk of developing EOCRC in the offspring. Pregnant dams were treated with a single round of on eof the most commonly prescribed classes of pediatric Abx: amoxicillin (710 mg/kg), a beta lactam, or azithromycin (250 mg/kg), a macrolide. Control mice were given water or polyethylene glycol (PEG). At five weeks of age, the offspring were treated with azoxymethane (AOM, 10 mg/kg), a carcinogen at five weeks of age once a week for six weeks to induce tumor development. Tumor burden was assessed 14 weeks after the last dose of AOM. The results revealed that Abx did not greatly impact the tumor development in the proximal colon but rather increased the tumor burden in the distal colon, compared to our control groups treated with PEG and water. These findings suggest that Abx treatment in the prenatal developmental role may lead to frequent tumor development in the later stages of life.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kirk, Delaney	Hollis, Fiona Crockett, Alexia Cloude, Nazharee Cavalli, Eliana Rodrigues, Rinaldo	Chronic unpredictable stress affects prefrontal mitochondrial function in association with coping behavior View Full Text Abstract Text Chronic stress is known to induce an activation of behavioral and physiological responses occurring from a perceived threatening stimulus. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is responsible for the brain’s higher cognitive functions, including reacting to and regulating stress levels. The PFC has also been linked to stress-induced behavioral disorders, particularly depression, which women are nearly twice as likely to experience compared to men. Mitochondria are essential for metabolic processes and the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as energy for the cell. Under stress, and particularly chronic stress, mitochondrial energy demand is increased and can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, we hypothesized that chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) would disrupt PFC mitochondrial function and induce behavioral pathology. Adult male and female mice underwent CUS for 28 days to observe CUS-induced behavioral and physiological traits. We assessed the stress coping style in the forced swim test (FST). Mitochondrial respiration in the PFC was analyzed via high-resolution respirometry, and the mitochondrial respiratory chain complex protein expression was analyzed via western blot. In the FST, we observed a main effect of stress to decrease latency to immobility, particularly within stressed males. Additionally, CUS increased the total time spent immobile in both females and males. Western blot analysis showed that males had significantly more complex II protein expression compared to females. For PFC respiration, we observed significantly increased respiration in control females compared to males and a significant reduction in stressed females. Interestingly, we found a significant positive correlation between time spent immobile in the FST and PFC respiration such that mice with higher respiration spent more time immobile. Altogether, our data demonstrates that CUS has a significant impact on behavioral and physiological outputs that are associated with mitochondrial function in the PFC.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hargrave, Kevin	Patel, Jay	Examining Relationships Between Arm Length and Shoulder Force Production in Baseball Pitchers: An Exploratory Analysis View Full Text Abstract Text BACKGROUND: Glenohumeral joint health and stability are fundamental to baseball throwing mechanics. The shoulder is a primary source of force production (FP) down the upper extremity, utilizing joint actions such as shoulder internal (SIR) and external rotation (SER). Arm length is a measure that may influence force generation due to its role as a lever. Previous studies have examined the relationship between shoulder rotational force and pitch velocity, but not the role of arm length as a contributor to FP. The purpose of this study was to investigate possible relationships between arm length and shoulder FP in baseball pitchers. METHODS: Data from 47 male baseball pitchers (18.87±3.00yrs, 1.83±0.11m, 84.63±12.72kg) were retrospectively analyzed. Arm lengths were obtained via tape measure, and two trials of isometric strength measurements were taken for dominant and non-dominant SIR and SER FP via handheld dynamometer. Pearson correlations were conducted to determine possible relationships between variables. RESULTS: Moderate negative correlations were found between dominant arm length and FP for SIR (r = -.33) and SER (r = -.39). Non-dominant arms found moderate negative correlations between arm length and FP for SIR (r = -.47) and SER (r = -.46). CONCLUSION: These results suggest an inverse relationship between pitcher arm length and isometric glenohumeral FP for dominant and non-dominant arms. Additional exercises and preventative measures for pitchers with longer arms could help to mitigate upper extremity injuries and may enhance athletic performance. Future research could investigate shoulder FP differences in pitchers and position players or look further into these relationships within pitching kinematics.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Carney, Mary	Holt, David Eric Dubinsky, Stanley	The effects of instruction on the phonetic errors made by native English-speaking learners of Spanish View Full Text Abstract Text The purpose of this study is to determine whether the frequency of certain pronunciation errors made by American English speakers learning Spanish correlates with the amount and kind of instruction they have received on these topics. The study focuses on errors that can be attributed to the interference of English native speaker phonology with phonological features of Spanish that must be learned. For example, the bilabial voiceless stop /p/ is sometimes aspirated in English but is never aspirated in Spanish, and it is speculated that this might cause learners of Spanish to erroneously aspirate /p/. Native English speaker participants each recorded a sample of themselves speaking Spanish and also completed a survey that asked about their language learning experience. These data were analyzed to determine (i) the frequency of errors made along with (ii) whether the participants were aware of or had been taught about the different types of errors that could be made. Participants were then divided into four groups based on the following two factors: (i) whether they have had an immersive experience with Spanish and (ii) whether they had received phonetic instruction. The four groups were thus: low immersion/low instruction, low immersion/high instruction, high immersion/low instruction, and high immersion/high instruction. This study then compares these groups, taking account of both in instruction methods received and also of the errors that they made, in order to better understand how different immersion and instruction experiences affect their Spanish pronunciation.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Amisano, Maria Boyle, Connor	Salman, Nadra Newman-Norlund, Sarah Riccardi, Nick Fridriksson, Julius Bonilha, Leonardo	Exploring the nuanced relationship between executive inhibitory control and accelerated brain aging View Full Text Abstract Text Tasks to assess executive function have been paramount to identifying relationships between physiological brain markers and aspects of cognition. Previous studies have explored Stroop task performance in relation to regions heavily tied to executive function, including the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, inferior frontal gyrus, and anterior cingulate cortex (Collette et al. 2005). Brain Age Gap, the difference between chronological age and estimated brain age, has emerged as a novel metric for assessing structural brain health. However, the application of this tool in regards to executive control has not yet been fully explored. Thus, this study seeks to investigate the relationship between regional brain age gap and executive inhibitory control. We have collected MRI and Stroop data from 109 participants (83 females and 26 males aged 40-80) at the Aging Brain Cohort (ABC) at UofSC. Using the volBrain pipeline (Nguyen et al., 2024) and structural T1-weighted MRI scans, we have calculated regional brain age gaps across 144 different brain regions for each participant. We plan to perform a correlation analysis between regional brain age gap and stroop performance while controlling for multiple covariates such as sex and education, and correcting for multiple comparisons. We hypothesize there will be a significant negative correlation between Stroop Performance and accelerated brain aging in the regions previously found to be associated with executive functions such as inhibition. This work will build on previous literature on the relationship between executive functions and brain health measures. Ultimately, we aim to provide a clearer lens on the implications of accelerated brain aging, exploring the intricate relationship between executive function and brain health.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Ventola, Matthew	Palomares, Melanie Vahlstrom, Christine	Investigating the Role of Attention in Number Line Estimation View Full Text Abstract Text Space and number are fundamentally connected. Smaller numbers are associated with the left side of space and larger numbers are associated with the right side of space, a phenomenon formally coined as the Spatial-Numerical Association of Response Codes (SNARC) effect (Cuttino et al, 2006). This research investigated whether number-space mapping is affected by attentional cues, such as the presence or absence of endpoints and arrows pointing to the left or right presented near fixation. Participants were asked to locate the position of numerical targets within (i.e. interpolation) or beyond (i.e. extrapolation) a line segment. The number line ranged from -500 to +500 in the interpolation conditions and -20 to +20 in the extrapolation conditions. If endpoints affect responses, then the interpolation and extrapolation conditions should produce different error patterns. Moreover, if arrows implicitly affect responses, then responses should shift consistently with the direction of the arrow. Additionally, participants performed a KTEA math assessment and a debriefing questionnaire to determine whether basic computational fluency and positive attitudes towards arithmetic correlate to higher performance in the number line tasks. Our study has implications in cognitive science, education, and medicine, potentially redefining early math education techniques and neurological disease rehabilitation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Monnell, Bryan Wandel, Ethan	Shtutman, Michael Korunova, Elizaveta	U2OS Stress Granule Liquid Phase Separation and Rheological Properties of Cytoplasm View Full Text Abstract Text Cellular survival depends on the ability to withstand oxidative stress. Cells respond to oxidative stress by forming stress granules (SGs), dynamic ribonucleoprotein assemblies driven by the G3BP1 protein. SGs inhibit general protein synthesis while selectively permitting translation of stress-response proteins and protecting other translational components until the stress subsides. Proper SG assembly and disassembly are essential for cellular recovery, and persistent or dysregulated SGs are implicated in some neurodegenerative diseases. Viruses, including human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), can manipulate SGs to facilitate viral protein translation. Previous work explored the varying level of oxidative stress-related SG formation in U2OS cells after 40 minutes of treatment with different concentrations of sodium arsenite and treatment with HIV-1 Tat protein. This protein was shown to enhance SG formation under high-stress conditions but had no significant effect at low stress levels, suggesting that HIV-1 Tat modulates SG assembly in a stress-dependent manner. However, while SG number and formation were characterized, the physical characteristics of SG mobility remain unclear. This study expands on prior findings by examining SG mobility using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) in G3BP1-tagged U2OS cells under low and high oxidative stress, with and without HIV-1 Tat protein. Additionally, doxorubicin was used to induce cellular senescence, associated with reduced cytoplasmic fluidity. Because HIV-1 Tat alters SG assembly, it was hypothesized that HIV-1 Tat treatment would reduce SG fluidity. It was also hypothesized that doxorubicin treatment would further reduce SG fluidity due to disruption of the cytoskeleton. Mobility data analysis is currently underway, and quantitative diffusion coefficients will be presented upon completion. This study aims to clarify how viral proteins influence the dynamics of stress granules. The findings could provide insight regarding the mechanisms linking stress granule dysregulation to neurodegenerative pathology.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Brown, Kendall	Riccardi, Nicholas	Mitochondrial Contributions to Accelerated Brain Aging: Associations with Cardiovascular Risk View Full Text Abstract Text As we age, it is increasingly evident that brain health is central to the preservation of overall cognition and function. Data shows increasing correlation of neurological decline and premature mortality. Recently, new techniques have allowed us to map brain age by area, focusing on specific regions where aging is more accelerated. This framework “brain age” uses structural fMRI analysis to estimate brain age by region. Comparing participant scans to healthy age-specific cohorts, allows for analysis of patterns associated with health risks. Cardiovascular risk specifically has been linked to mitochondrial dysfunction and neurological health. Previously, there was no way to measure the influence of mitochondrial profiles on these estimations in vivo. These factors led us to question: do adults with greater cardiovascular risk factors present with accelerated brain aging in mitochondria-rich regions? This study aimed to examine a potential link between adults with higher cardiovascular risk factors and accelerated brain aging in mitochondrial-rich regions. We hypothesized that cardiovascular risk factors relate specifically to aging within mitochondrial rich regions. Utilizing newly published atlases of mitochondrial properties, in combination with structural neuroimaging, we will analyze brain vulnerability in mitochondrial rich regions. Without this research, we lack clarity on contributors to cognitive aging, leaving many with poor health and unanswered questions. We hope that by investigating mitochondrial-focused brain age, we can identify correlations that will aid in the prediction of risk factors and cognitive decline.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Edwards, William	De Backer, Wout Hickey, Patrick	Development and Implementation of an Aviation Tutorial/Checklist for the USC Redbird MCX Flight Simulator View Full Text Abstract Text According to National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) statistics, approximately 80 percent of all aviation accidents are caused by pilot error, the human factor. Aviation checklists are essential cockpit resources used to verify the aircraft instruments and systems are checked, set, and operating properly, with proper aviation checklist use and optimum aviation checklist design being human factors issues. Flight safety can be enhanced by proper aviation checklist usage and good checklist design. During preflight, a checklist ensures pilots inspect an aircraft’s components and systems for proper operation and structural integrity and allows them to verify airworthiness. Aviation checklists provide important structure to the things pilots check often, usually in a prescribed order of priority, and are a proven way to reduce errors and improve flight safety. However, accidents still occur in which misuse of the checklist or poor checklist design are often contributing factors. The University of South Carolina (USC) has a Redbird MCX Flight Simulator that is used by students in the aerospace engineering undergraduate labs, members of the Carolina Flight Club, as well as many other USC students interested in becoming pilots as it mimics the real-life experience of being in the cockpit of a plane. However, to date there has not been a checklist nor tutorial for students to use when “flying the Redbird”. Lessons learned by using an aviation checklist in a flight simulator can be transferred to a real cockpit as it provides a structured, standardized way to perform critical pre-flight, in-flight, and landing procedures, essentially acting as a memory aid to guarantee no vital steps are missed during flight operations.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Nasiri, Neekan	Matchin, William	Articulatory Precision Links Inferior Frontal Cortical Thickness and Cognitive Performance in Healthy Adult Women View Full Text Abstract Text Age-related cortical thinning in prefrontal regions has been linked to variability in speech production and global cognition. The Inferior Frontal Gyrus (IFG), a core region supporting speech motor planning and executive-language processes, may provide a structural bridge between articulatory precision and cognitive performance. Vowel Space Area (VSA), derived from first (F1) and second (F2) formant frequencies, indexes articulatory dispersion and may reflect functional consequences of neural variation. However, structural and articulatory pathways have rarely been examined jointly in healthy adulthood. Seventy-four healthy adult women (ages 20–78) from the Aging Brain Cohort completed structural MRI, speech production tasks, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Cortical thickness of the IFG, pars opercularis (opIFG), was extracted using the volBrain2 pipeline. VSA was computed from repeated productions of corner vowels. Analyses controlled for age, education, and socioeconomic status. OpIFG thickness was positively associated with MoCA (r = 0.284, p = 0.014) and VSA (r = 0.334, p = 0.004). VSA was positively associated with MoCA (r = 0.337, p = 0.003). Bootstrapped mediation analyses (5,000 samples) indicated a significant indirect effect of IFG thickness on MoCA through VSA (95% CI [0.0003, 1.41]), while the direct opIFG–MoCA association was not significant (p = 0.903). The full model explained 23% of variance in MoCA. Findings are consistent with articulatory precision statistically accounting for the association between prefrontal cortical thickness and global cognition, supporting a shared brain–speech pathway in healthy adulthood.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Tosadori, Cailyn	Vaughn, Lauren Twiss, Jeff	Targeting axon intrinsic loop restricting nerve regeneration View Full Text Abstract Text Injured axons locally synthesize many proteins, and their activity dictates the outcome of regeneration. Sciatic nerve injury increases axoplasmic Ca2+, which triggers the integrated stress response (ISR). The ISR is a conserved cellular signaling network that activates kinases to phosphorylate elF2a, inhibiting global translation but enables the translation of a specific subset of proteins. Khsrp is translated under high Ca2+ conditions, where it promotes mRNA decay and limits nerve regeneration. Despite Ca2+ levels returning to baseline 16 hours post-injury, axonal KHSRP remains elevated through regeneration. We found that Reg3a mRNA is also localized to the axons and translated after injury. REG3A is secreted locally after injury, stimulates the endoplasmic reticulum to release Ca2+, activates PERK, phosphorylating elF2a, and promoting sustained Khsrp translation. If REG3A is depleted, axoplasmic Ca2+ fluctuation decreases, leading to a reduction in KHSRP synthesis and the acceleration of peripheral nerve regeneration and improved functional outcomes. Finding ways to target and inhibit this signaling pathway could improve regeneration outcomes. Inhibition using the integrated stress response inhibitor (ISRIB), an experimental small molecule which overcomes eIF2a phosphorylation, reduces KHSRP accumulation in the axon terminus and enhances growth. Additional work is focusing on identifying the axonal REG3A receptor to be used as an upstream target to block REG3A and KHSRP’s growth inhibitory signaling. This work illustrates an axon intrinsic signaling loop that decelerates regeneration through localized translational control which presents a druggable target to improve regeneration outcomes.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Robinson, Savannah	Leon, Francisco Richardson, Tammi Stryker, Zachary Rose, Jared	Evaluation of Cryptophyte-Derived Phycobiliproteins as Natural Alternatives to Synthetic Food Dyes View Full Text Abstract Text In April 2025, the FDA and HHS announced plans to phase out all petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the U.S. food supply as part of the new administration’s overall “Make America Healthy Again” initiative. Artificial food dyes such as Red No. 40 and Yellow No. 6 have been scrutinized for potential health risks, including neurobehavioral issues in children, cancer risks, and inflammatory responses. While the European Union has already implemented strict regulations on synthetic food dyes, banning many and requiring warning labels on foods, the United States is now moving towards alternative colorants. This study investigates the potential of phycobiliproteins (PBPs) derived from cryptophyte algae as a natural food dye by evaluating their cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory activity in a neuronal model. Phycobiliproteins are a class of colored proteins that function as photosynthetically active pigments and have been shown to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. Phycoerythrin (R-PE) was extracted from Rhodomonas salina using Sephadex LH-20 size exclusion resin, and absorbance measurements were conducted to confirm protein identity, purity, and concentration. SH-SY5Y cells, a human-derived neuroblastoma cell line, were utilized as an in vitro neuronal model to assess biochemical activity. Cytotoxicity of the extracted PBPs was evaluated using MTT assays and directly compared to the synthetic dye Red 40 to determine relative cellular viability. To investigate the anti-inflammatory potential of R-PE, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-) levels were quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This approach determined that PBPs exhibited no significant cytotoxicity and showed cytotoxic effects comparable to those of Red 40. Anti-inflammatory activity remains under investigation; however, initial findings present no significant inflammatory activity.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Keys, Olivia	Wyatt, Michael	Fluorescence Polarization Analysis of Abbapolin and Kinase Domain Inhibitor Induced Conformational Changes of Polo-like Kinase 1 View Full Text Abstract Text Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), a dimeric protein consisting of a kinase domain (KD) and a phosphopeptide-binding polobox domain (PBD), is a protein kinase associated with mitosis. Previous work has identified PLK1 overexpression in many human cancers with poor prognoses. Additionally, it was found that inhibition of PLK1 and its resulting inference with mitosis can lead to the death of cancer cells. Abbapolins, non-ATP competitive inhibitors developed from a 2-(4-AlkylBenzamido) Benzoic Adid macrophore, bind to the PBD of PLK1. Abbapolins block phosphorylation of TCTP, a target of PLK1. Abbapolins, in addition to antiproliferative effects, show the novel activity of inducing PLK1 degradation, unlike KD inhibitors that have been shown to promote open conformation when bound, facilitating binding to the PBD. Previous work shows that conformational changes of PLK1 during mitosis, caused by the binding of KD inhibitors, results in destabilization and accumulation of PLK1 in mitotic cells. Alternatively, appapolins were shown to stabilize PLK1 resulting in cellular degradation of PLK1. This degradation prevents cells from entering the M phase of mitosis, causing cells to undergo apoptosis. Fluorescence polarization (FP) assays can be used to quantitatively measure binding of competitive inhibitors in relation to that of a fluorescent tag. By designing a fluorescent tag that binds to the PBD of PLK1, compound efficacy can be determined by observing changes in polarization of said tag in the presence of compounds. When the tag is fully bound to the PBD, it is nearly immobilized, resulting in high polarization. However, when the tag is displaced from the PBD by a competitive inhibitor, the polarization is lost. This assay can be used to quantitatively measure the binding of a compound of interest to a protein. This work employs FP assays to elucidate conformational information and behavior of PLK1 when exposed to abbapolins and kinase domain inhibitors.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Furness, Tanner	Brown, Herrick	Botanical Inventory and Monitoring of Frequently-burned Sandhills Floristic Community View Full Text Abstract Text Sesquicentennial State Park is a predominately longleaf pine ecosystem located in the sandhills region of South Carolina. As longleaf pines typically offer more of a canopy cover, the burning of these trees and the pinestraw that covers the forest floor allows for more herbaceous plants to thrive. Prescribed burning is prohibited in this state park due to being landlocked by private property, periodic fires would be a natural part of this ecosystem affording us a unique opportunity to study this environment. The study site was subject to eighteen wildfires over a two year timeframe. The goal of this project was to compare plant coverage and species richness in the affected area to an adjacent unaffected area, while monitoring how secondary succession takes place in this specific ecosystem. This was done by mapping the burned and unburned area with GIS and monitoring plant life within a 15 meter radius of 10 randomly generated points. Through maintaining an active checklist of plants within Sesquicentennial State park, this will both allow comparison and act as a record of plant life for the state park service research management staff. This is the beginning of a long-term project which will continue for five years and will improve our knowledge of South Carolina flora as well as how plots recover after burning in sandhills environments.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Oxendine, Stacey	Wilson, Kiesha	Kynurenic Acid Modulates Myeloid Inflammation and Attenuates Lung Injury While Preserving Pulmonary Function in Streptococcus pneumoniae-Induced ARDS View Full Text Abstract Text Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening respiratory condition characterized by excessive inflammatory signaling, and progressive hypoxic lung injury. Mortality rates have remained at 30-50% over the past twenty years, and while breakthroughs have been made in supportive therapeutics strategies, underlying mechanisms of disease remain elusive. Dysregulated kynurenine metabolism has been implicated as a potential therapeutic target. Specifically, kynurenic acid (KYNA), a GPR35 ligand, has been linked to immune regulation; however, its role in infection-induced ARDS remains poorly defined. To investigate this, we utilized a murine model of ARDS induced by Streptococcus pneumoniae. We hypothesized that KYNA modulates inflammatory amplification and preserves lung function during pneumococcal lung injury. We induced ARDS via exposure to 1x108 cfu Streptococcus pneumoniae intranasally, followed immediately by an intraperitoneal injection of 200mg/kg kynurenic acid (KYNA). After 24 hours of exposure to the ARDS-inducing agent, we evaluated the lung function, lung immune cell profile, cytokine expression, and transcriptomic changes. Plethysmography analysis revealed KYNA improved pulmonary mechanics, and minute ventilation of the KYNA + Strep mice compared to S. pneumoniae alone. Histological analysis demonstrated reduced inflammatory tissue injury in KYNA-treated lungs. Using flow cytometry on lung cells, we revealed increased neutrophil infiltration in S. pneumoniae-treated mice, while KYNA exposure reduced neutrophil infiltration and shifted macrophage phenotypes. KYNA treatment significantly attenuated NF-κB–associated cytokines TNFα and IL-1β and reduced HIF-1α expression. KYNA also reduced Gpr35 mRNA expression, suggesting possible agonist-induced feedback. Given that GPR35 is expressed on multiple myeloid subsets, including neutrophils, macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, these results are consistent with modulation of GPR35-expressing immune populations during infection-induced lung injury. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that KYNA suppresses pneumococcal-induced inflammatory amplification and preserves lung function in experimental ARDS. Therefore, represents a potent regulator of inflammatory lung responses with potential therapeutic relevance in ARDS.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Martin, Ansley	Riccardi, Nicholas Newman-Norlund, Sarah Fridriksson, Julius Bonilha, Leonardo	Brain Age Estimation from Structural Connectomes: Network-Level Vulnerability and Depression Risk View Full Text Abstract Text Brain age is an in vivo biomarker of brain health derived by estimating chronological age from brain imaging features. Deviations from normative aging trajectories are associated with cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative risk. However, most existing models rely predominantly on grey matter morphometry, offering limited insight into white matter (WM) integrity and connectivity. Because WM pathology often precedes grey matter atrophy and is closely tied to vascular dysfunction, network communication, and psychiatric conditions like major depression disorder, diffusion-based structural connectomes represent a complementary and underexplored avenue for brain age modeling and clinically relevant biomarkers. We included N=367 participants (ages 20-80) from the Aging Brain Cohort Study at the University of South Carolina in our analysis. Individual-level structural connectomes were derived from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) MRI scans using probabilistic tractography and parcellated into 189 regions via the JHU atlas. Three graph-theoretic nodal features were computed per region: nodal strength, local clustering coefficient, and local efficiency. Age was modeled using elastic net regression with predictors centered, scaled, and reduced via principle component analysis (K=30), evaluated through 10-fold repeated cross-validation (3 repeats). Brain age gaps (BAGs) were calculated by the difference between chronological and predicted age, and was age bias-corrected by regressing on chronological age and retaining residuals. The whole-brain model demonstrated strong predictive accuracy (MAE = 9.38, R² = .610). Network-specific models revealed marked variability: the default mode (R² = .166) and language networks (R² = .260) outperformed the sensorimotor (R² = .126) and visual networks (R² = .057), suggesting differential network-level vulnerability to aging. Connectome-derived BAG showed modest but significant correlation with conventional grey matter-based estimates (r=.356, p<.001), indicating partially overlapping but largely distinct biological variance. Connectome-derived brain age also significantly predicted depression prevalence (p=.012), consistent with emerging evidence linking accelerated brain aging to affective disorder risk.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Patel, Nidhi	Buckhaults, Phillip Mohseninia, Atefeh Nageswara Rao, Chintada McInnes, Campbell Wyatt, Michael Patel, Shrey	Multiplexed Barcoded Organoid Screening Reveals Genotype-Specific and Tumor-Selective Drug Responses in Colorectal Cancer View Full Text Abstract Text Cancer treatment outcomes vary widely between patients, highlighting the need for models that can predict individual drug responses. Patient-derived organoids (PDOs), grown directly from tumor tissue, preserve key features of the original cancer and provide a platform for functional drug testing. In this study, we applied a lentiviral barcoding strategy developed to uniquely label colorectal PDO lines, enabling pooled screening of multiple patient-derived models while maintaining sample-specific resolution. Using the CloneTracer system, stable DNA barcodes were introduced into 20 tumor organoids and one matched normal control. Following treatment, shifts in relative barcode abundance were used to quantify relative Darwinian fitnesses within pooled cultures. We determined the activity of a KRAS G12D inhibitor MRTX1133 across a mixture of 19 colon tumor organoids and found that, as expected, two organoids harboring KRAS G12D were the most sensitive to MRTX1133. We also determined the activities of PLK1 inhibitors targeting either the ATP-binding site (Onvansertib) or the Polo-box domain of PLK1 (two abbapolins) all three of which showed similar results, identifying two organoids sensitive to PLK1 inhibition. To assess tumor versus normal selectivity, we next performed a pooled tumor-normal comparison using a single tumor (F147T) and its matched normal organoid (F147N) challenged with 24 different oncology drugs. The PLK1 inhibitor Onvansertib, the Proteasome inhibitor Ixazomib and the Topoisomerase inhibitor Idarubicin all showed selective activity against the tumor compared to its matched normal. Collectively, these findings establish pooled barcoded organoid screening as a high throughput strategy for resolving genotype-driven drug responses. By enabling direct internal comparison across genetically distinct patient-derived models, this design enhances detection sensitivity while minimizing inter-sample variability, providing a scalable platform for functional precision oncology.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Do, Sophia Wong, Yat Long	Bradshaw, Jessica Yurkovic-Harding, Julia	Actions on Toys during Play in Parents and Infants at Elevated and Low Likelihood for Autism View Full Text Abstract Text Infant and parent behaviors during play dynamically influence one another (Bornstein & Tamis-Lemonda, 1990). One important behavior is parent touch of toys, which can direct infants’ attention and support shared attention (Deák et al., 2018). As infants develop new skills, parent behaviors adapt accordingly (Bornstein & Tamis-Lemonda, 1990). Yet, little is known about how parent toy touching changes as infants become more capable of touching toys themselves. This is of particular relevance to autism spectrum disorder (autism), as infants often show motor differences (Bhat et al., 2012) that may influence play. The current study therefore examined the relationship between infant and parent toy touching during play. Participants were 41 parent-infant dyads with 8-month-old infants at elevated likelihood (EL, n = 25) or low likelihood (LL, n = 16) for autism. Dyads engaged in approximately 10 minutes of free play while wearing head-mounted eye trackers. Infant and parent touch of toys were coded frame-by-frame. Data from all 41 infants and 27 parents are included; remaining parent data are still being coded. EL and LL infants touched toys for similar proportions of the session (EL: 69% (SD +/- 19%); LL: 71% (17%); F(1,39) = 0.001, p = .97). However, EL parents touch toys more than LL parents (EL: 58% (14%); LL: 42% (23%); F(1,25) = 4.90, p = .04). Among EL dyads, proportions of infant and parent toy touching were not related (r(9) = 0.04, p = .88). Among LL dyads, there was a moderate positive correlation that did not reach significance (r(18) = 0.57, p = .11). Although infant behavior was similar across groups, LL parents appeared more behaviorally aligned with their infants’ toy touching. Parents of EL infants and children with ASD are often more responsive to their child’s behaviors during play (Yoshida et al., 2019), suggesting that increased toy touching by EL parents may reflect an adaptive strategy to support infant toy engagement. Further research will examine the moment-by-moment dynamics of both looks and touches of toys between infants and parents.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Simpson, Daniel	Johnson, Christian Odo, Chigozie	Purification of KRAS fast-exchange mutants for nucleotide exchange and SOS-binding assays to characterize mutant KRAS-SOS interactions. View Full Text Abstract Text Small GTPases are a family of proteins responsible for cell signaling and growth in humans. They function as molecular switches, existing in the “on” (GTP-bound) or “off” (GDP-bound) states. KRAS is a small GTPase that regulates the MAPK signaling pathway responsible for cell growth, and mutation of KRAS is implicated in ~10% of all human cancers. KRAS is normally activated by the guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEF), such as SOS, and are deactivated by GTPase activating proteins (GAP). The uncontrolled upregulation of KRAS activation via mutation leads to uncontrolled cell growth. Mutations can activate KRAS through enhanced nucleotide exchange, decreased GTP hydrolysis, or a combination of both. While direct targeting of KRAS in the clinic has achieved some success, tumors often develop resistance. In response, vertical inhibition strategies targeting the MAPK signaling pathway at multiple nodes (e.g. KRAS and SOS1) have been developed and are currently being explored by the field. We are interested in deciphering the underlying mechanism(s) of mutation-enhanced nucleotide exchange in KRAS, and how it relates to the SOS-catalyzed mechanism of nucleotide exchange. Here, we examine how different fast-exchange mutants of KRAS bind to SOS and influence the kinetics of nucleotide exchange using fluorescent nucleotide analogues and pull-down assays. These studies will help clarify the ways in which SOS1 works with mutant KRAS in the cell to enhance tumor growth, and ultimately, predict whether vertical inhibition of SOS and KRAS is a rationally viable approach for different mutants of KRAS.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Callahan, Liam	Brown, Herrick	Clinal variation in Liriodendron tulipifera in South Carolina View Full Text Abstract Text This undergraduate research project investigates clinal variation in Liriodendron tulipifera across central South Carolina, with the goal of evaluating morphological differences between coastal and piedmont ‘ecomorphs’ and assessing whether these variations may indicate distinct taxa. In order to investigate trends in leaf morphology across environmental gradients, the study integrates morphometric measurements, field observations, and herbarium data analysis. Existing specimen records will be mined using regional herbarium databases, including SERNEC, to identify geographic trends in phenotypic variation. Morphometric analysis will focus on sun-grown leaves to ensure consistency in developmental conditions, allowing for reliable comparison among populations. Springtime fieldwork will evaluate ecological coherence in situ and confirm identified morphological trends in natural populations. Geographic information system tools and relevant primary literature will support spatial and ecological interpretation of results. By integrating historical collections with contemporary field sampling, this project aims to clarify whether observed morphological differences represent continuous environmental variation or evidence of taxonomic differentiation. The research contributes to understanding plant adaptation across environmental gradients and highlights the value of combining herbarium resources with field based ecological investigation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Amin, Mohin	Webb, Clinton Rodrigues dos Passos, Rinaldo	Cell-free mtDNA triggers vascular dysfunction via TLR9-dependent activation of inflammasomes. View Full Text Abstract Text Hypertension is the leading global risk factor for mortality and is closely associated with vascular inflammation and dysfunction. Damaged mitochondrial release cell-free mitochondrial DNA (cf-mtDNA), which activates toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9). The binding of TLR9 to mtDNA activates the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, promoting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines via gasdermin D (GSDMD), therefore worsening inflammation. However, the mechanisms linking mitochondrial injury to inflammation-induced vascular dysfunction remain unclear. We hypothesize that cf-mtDNA triggers TLR9-dependent NLRP3 inflammasome activation contributing to vascular and endothelial dysfunction. To assess that, we isolated mtDNA from C57BL/6 mouse livers using a commercial kit. Primary endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from C57BL/6 mice were cultured for 24 hours in culture media containing mtDNA (4 µg/mL) in the presence or absence of the TLR9 antagonist ODN2088 (3 µM). Another set of endothelial cells were incubated with the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α (10ng/mL) for 24h. Following incubation, cells were collected to perform protein expression via Western blot or gene expression via RT-qPCR. Statistical significance was assessed using one-way ANOVA or Student’s t-test with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. VSMCs incubated with mtDNA had increased TLR9 (p<0.05) and TNF-α (p<0.05) protein expression and this was prevented by the co-incubation with the TLR9 antagonist. In ECs, incubation with mtDNA promoted increased protein expression of NLRP3 (p<0.05) and GSDMD (p<0.05), which was prevented by the concomitant incubation with TLR9 antagonist. Additionally, incubation of ECs with TNF-α promoted the upregulation of the inflammasome gene Nlrp3 and Tlr9 as well as the vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (Vcam1), a key marker for endothelial activation and dysfunction. These findings suggest that the mtDNA-TLR9 signaling activates the inflammasome pathway in vascular cells, contributing to endothelial and vascular dysfunction.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Howitt, Grace	Stodden, David	Comparison between psychological skills in Cadets from a military college vs a non-military college ROTC program. View Full Text Abstract Text Psychological skills play a critical role in performance within high-demand environments where individuals must manage stress, maintain focus, regulate emotion, and demonstrate discipline under pressure. Military training programs, whether conducted within a fully immersive military college or integrated into a traditional university setting through a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, are designed to cultivate these performance-related psychological skills. However, the structure, intensity, and daily expectations of these environments differ considerably, raising important questions about how context may influence psychological skill development. Military college environments emphasize continuous exposure to structured behavioral routines, accountability, and leadership demands. Public university ROTC students differ from students who come from a senior military college, as they balance military training in addition to traditional academic experiences. Limited evidence currently exists exploring how contextually-specific factors between individuals attending different institutions may influence psychological skill utilization or development. Thus, the purpose of this proposed study is to examine whether differences exist in psychological skills utilized between Cadets attending a senior military college, and students enrolled in the ROTC program at a public university in the southeastern U.S. Psychological skills will be assessed using the Test of Performance Strategies (TOPS), a validated instrument that measures constructs including goal setting, self-talk, emotional control, imagery, automaticity, activation, relaxation, and attentional control. This research seeks to understand how contextually specific factors across different institutional environments may influence the development of psychological skills in future military leaders. The results aim to enhance current understanding of how psychological skills are utilized within these training contexts and help inform more tailored support strategies to help cadets develop these skills and promote optimal performance outcomes.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Zahid, Mahnoor	Jasnow, Aaron	The Ventral Hippocampus Encodes Context Fear and Generalization in Females, But Not in Males View Full Text Abstract Text Navigating environments for survival requires continuously distinguishing between safe and unsafe contexts and cues. Decades of research have implicated the dorsal hippocampus in the formation and recall of contextual memories that support appropriate, context-dependent fear responses. Our previous research demonstrated that the dorsal hippocampus is critical for recalling context-specific fear memories regardless of time, whereas the ventral hippocampus (vHPC) controls generalized context responses, but only at remote time points after learning. Despite extensive literature on the dorsal hippocampus's role in contextual learning, the relationship between the vHPC and contextual fear learning is less understood. To investigate the role of the vHPC in encoding and generalizing contextual fear memory, we used a chemogenetic approach and selectively expressed an inhibitory DREADD virus in the vHPC of male and female mice using an adeno-associated virus (AAV) four weeks before behavioral testing. Experimental mice received a virus encoding the inhibitory DREADD receptor, hM4Di, which inhibits neuronal activity when the DREADD agonist, J60, is administered. Control mice received an AAV expressing a fluorescent protein. Twenty-five minutes before contextual fear training, mice were given J60 intraperitoneally. After training, mice were tested for fear memory generalization in a novel context 24 hours later. Two days after the novel context test, mice were tested for specific fear memory recall in the training context. We found sex differences in contextual fear, with females showing greater context-specific fear than males. Chemogenetic inhibition of the vHPC significantly reduced freezing in females across testing contexts, but not in males. Inhibiting the vHPC in males had no effect on the encoding or generalization of contextual fear. Our findings suggest sex differences in how males and females acquire and process contextual information, and indicate that, under certain training conditions, contextual learning in females is more dependent on the vHPC than in males.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
DiFondi, Taylor Mangallampalli, Veena	Bradshaw, Jessica Yurkovic-Harding, Julia	Hand–Eye Coordination During Toy Play in Infants at Elevated Likelihood for Autism View Full Text Abstract Text Infant hand-eye coordination (i.e., looking at toys they are touching) plays a foundational role in early development. During these moments, parents can readily align their attention with the infant’s focus, creating opportunities for shared attention and object labelling that support language and social development (Suanda et al., 2016; Yu & Smith, 2012, 2015). Infants who are later diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (autism) demonstrate differences in how they coordinate visual attention and manual actions during play (Sacrey et al., 2013). However, it remains understudied whether the rate of hand-eye coordination differs for infants at elevated likelihood for autism, potentially shaping early opportunities for social learning. Participants were 41 parent-infant dyads with 8-month-old infants at elevated likelihood (EL, n = 25) or low likelihood (LL, n = 16) for autism. Both infants and parents wore head-mounted eye trackers during a ~10-minute free-play session with toys. Infant look to toys and touch of toys were coded frame-by-frame for the duration of the play session. Hand-eye coordination was defined as frames where infants were looking at a toy that they were simultaneously touching. EL and LL infants showed highly similar patterns of attention and action. Both groups looked at toys for about half of the session (EL: 54% (SD +/- 16%); LL 53% (11%); F(1,39) = 0.15, p = .71) and touched toys for over two-thirds of the session (EL: 69% (19%), LL 71% (17%); F(1,39) = 0.001, p = .97). Critically, the proportion of time spent in hand-eye coordination did not differ between groups (EL: 47% (15%), LL: 42% (11%); F(1,39) = .163, p = .21). These findings suggest that, at 8 months, infants at elevated and low likelihood for autism engage in similar attention and action dynamics during play. The availability of moments that could support shared attention and parental input may then also be similar across groups. Future work will examine whether parent-infant shared attention during these hand-eye coordination moments differs between groups.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Mendicino, Gia	Blake, Christine Samin, Sharraf	Determining Influences on Adolescent Food Choice: A Focus on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages View Full Text Abstract Text Objective: The objective of this study is to understand SSB consumption behaviors and decision-making processes among urban adolescents in Bangladesh. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among young adolescents (10–15 years, 6th-10th graders) from urban non-slum and slum areas of Mirpur area in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Participants were recruited from four private schools (two from each urban NS and S area) between June and July 2024. A total of 35 in-depth interviews were conducted. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. An initial codebook was developed using an emergent inductive approach with line-by-line coding, followed by thematic analysis to identify key themes. Results: Adolescents reported consuming SSBs across multiple settings, including home, school, and neighborhood food outlets, with consumption occurring at various times of the day such as breakfast, mid-morning, mid-afternoon, evening, and post-dinner. Consumption commonly occurred with parents, siblings, peers, or sometimes alone. Thematic analysis revealed multi-level influences on SSB consumption. Intrapersonal factors such as taste preferences and habitual consumption were associated with increased intake, whereas health concerns discouraged consumption. Adolescents also reported choosing locally produced beverages over specific multinational brands as an expression of political or moral solidarity which affected brand preference rather than reducing overall SSB consumption. Interpersonal influences such as parental health concerns and certain celebrity messages acted as protective influences, while peer interactions often encouraged intake. Food environment drivers such as high accessibility, affordability, and convenience facilitated frequent SSB purchasing and consumption. Socio-cultural influences (food culture, advertisements, and vendor relationships) further promoted SSB intake among adolescents. Conclusions: SSB consumption among urban adolescents in Bangladesh is driven by social, environmental, and cultural forces, where moral and political solidarity reshape brand choices rather than reducing intake. These factors underscore the need for a comprehensive, multi-level intervention to reduce SSB intake, and promote healthier alternatives.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kovacs, McKenna	Krizek, Beth	Identification of a Promoter Region Important for UFO Expression View Full Text Abstract Text Flowers go on to form fruits, seeds, and grains, which are essential parts of the human food supply. Understanding the genetic regulation of flower development and growth can deepen the understanding of the growth of crops crucial to food production. Arabidopsis thaliana is a common model system for studying the growth and development of flowers. The Arabidopsis gene, UNUSUAL FLORAL ORGANS (UFO), has been found to regulate floral organ identity and set boundaries within the flower. UFO is a transcriptional co-activator that works with a gene called LEAFY to express the class B gene, AP3. AP3 is required for the formation of petals and stamens. UFO is proposed to be a downstream target of AINTEGUMENTA (ANT) and AINTEGUMENTA-LIKE 6 (AIL6), important transcription factors that promote organ growth and regulate floral organ identity genes. Previous studies have shown that, in the absence of ANT and AIL6, UFO expression is decreased. To further understand the regulation of UFO by ANT, this project details the deletion of an ANT-binding site upstream of UFO, as identified by ChIP-seq. CRISPR-Cas9 was used to generate this deletion. Transgenic plants were screened by PCR amplification and gel electrophoresis to identify individuals with editing of the UFO promoter. Lines homozygous for the deletion produce flowers with fewer stamens and have decreased UFO expression. We have identified an upstream region in the promoter required for normal levels of UFO expression.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Castro, Lexie Stalford, Sophia	Webb, Emily	Arbovirus Surveillance in South Carolina: Monitoring Mosquito Species Diversity and Viral Activity Using State-Level Data View Full Text Abstract Text Mosquito-transmitted arboviruses pose a growing public health concern due to their widespread distribution and ability to cause severe disease in humans and animals. In South Carolina, diverse mosquito species support transmission cycles for pathogens including West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis virus, La Crosse virus, and Cache Valley virus. Surveillance efforts conducted by the South Carolina Department of Public Health have documented the presence of these viruses in mosquito populations and occasional spillover infections in humans and animals. State and local surveillance programs routinely conduct mosquito trapping and viral testing to monitor arbovirus activity and identify periods of increased transmission risk. Seasonal mosquito abundance, combined with environmental factors such as rainfall and temperature, creates conditions conducive to arbovirus transmission. In addition, migratory birds play a critical ecological role in maintaining and dispersing certain arboviruses, particularly West Nile virus, through enzootic bird–mosquito transmission cycles. This project presents a descriptive analysis of state-level surveillance data examining mosquito species diversity, infection monitoring, and reported arbovirus detections in mosquito pools, humans, and animals. By summarizing current mosquito surveillance data, this work highlights the importance of sustained vector monitoring for guiding mosquito control strategies and improving public health awareness in South Carolina.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bray, Matheson McCoy, Noah	DAntonio, Edward	Towards Drug-Target Validation of Trypanosoma cruzi Glucokinase: Alanine Scanning Mutagenesis for the Inhibitor Binding Affinity Assessment of Benzoyl Glucosamine View Full Text Abstract Text Trypanosoma cruzi is the parasite responsible for Chagas’ disease. Human transmission of the parasite is made possible by a kissing bug vector (e.g., the Eastern blood- sucking conenose – Triatoma sanguisuga), in which its feces are rubbed into the bite wound and T. cruzi protozoa move into the bloodstream. This is classified as a neglected tropical disease, where people of impoverished tropical and subtropical regions are affected in South and Central America. Cases have been rising in the United States, an estimated 300,000 are infected with T. cruzi. Evidently, there is an urgent need for the development of a safer and more cost-effective treatment. There is evidence that highlights a potential therapeutic drug-target called T. cruzi glucokinase (TcGlcK) having critical involvement for major cellular pathways like glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, and the pentose phosphate pathway. There is a known competitive inhibitor, BENZ-GlcN, that can halt the activity of TcGlcK which results in parasite cell death. Despite the mounting evidence of TcGlcK as a potential drug-target, it is not yet confirmed because genetic validation studies are the gold standard in the field. There are certain aspects, like proof of target engagement, needed in drug discovery that must first be performed before TcGlcK can be distinguished as a potential drug-target. The proposed project involves experimentation to aid in the proof of target engagement by mutating key TcGlcK amino acid residues in the active site to alanine. Through site-directed mutagenesis, we propose to engineer TcGlcK-mutated form to be resistant to the glucosamine analogue inhibitor BENZ-GlcN, in which it is otherwise a strong inhibitor of the native enzyme. This method helps to identify key mutations that can be moved forward into future studies involving CRISPR-mediated gene editing for drug-target validation.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Gliatta, Anna Hoffmann, Ainsley	Goldberg, Kelly	X-amining the Past: Using pXRF to Analyze Bricks and Ceramics from USC's Historic Horseshoe View Full Text Abstract Text Using the artifacts that student archaeology teams have excavated from the University of South Carolina’s Horseshoe, our research analyzes the material culture of ceramic and brick artifacts via portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF). PXRF is a portable, analytical device that works by using X-ray fluorescence to scan a substrate of a sample, showing which elements are present within the sample and in what amounts. Through this process, we will gather information about the cultural and material exchanges that occurred among populations on USC’s campus. Understanding the mobility of these artifacts is crucial to the development of our knowledge of USC’s history. This analysis will give us essential insight into manufacturing locations, trade patterns, and the societal structure that characterized the development of USC. Unfortunately, the ongoing construction and expansion of the campus over time has made it difficult to uncover these stories. By using the archaeological resources that USC now has access to, we can better understand exchanges across both Columbia and the state of South Carolina. We hope that these efforts will contribute to further exploration and awareness of the role of enslaved individuals in South Carolina.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Dover, Mallory Jones, Willa	Goldberg, Kelly	Ceramics in Time: Analyzing Artifacts of USC’s Past View Full Text Abstract Text Ceramics, as intimately used items in daily life, have the potential to contextualize a space and the activities that occurred within it. The Horseshoe archaeology collection contains an abundance of ceramic sherds. The individual qualities of these sherds can indicate ceramic purpose, creation date, and the time period in which nearby structures were present at the University of South Carolina.  Through systematic artifact analysis, we will date and identify ceramic sherds from the collection by utilizing a number of research methods that study the various glazes and patterns. By examining the forms of dishware used by individuals at USC during the 19th century, we aim to better understand the kinds of activities and interactions people on campus had, including enslaved individuals.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lamparter, Amy	Krizek, Beth	The growth repressor BIG BROTHER exhibits an additive genetic interaction with AINTEGUMENTA and AINTEGUMENTA-LIKE 6 in Arabidopsis floral organ size regulation. View Full Text Abstract Text Many genes and several distinct pathways regulating floral organ growth have been identified in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. These include both growth promoting and growth repressing pathways. How information from these different pathways is integrated to produce floral organs of characteristic sizes is not clear. Previous work in the lab identified the growth repressor BIG BROTHER (BB) as a potential target of AINTEGUMENTA (ANT) and AINTEGUMENTA-LIKE 6 (AIL6), two related transcription factors that promote growth. BB mRNA levels are increased in ant ail6 double mutants, and ChIP-Seq studies revealed binding of ANT/AIL6 to a genomic region upstream of the BB gene. Here we investigate genetic interactions among bb, ant, and ail6. Using different alleles, we confirmed results from another lab showing that bb ant double mutants have a petal size that is intermediate between bb and ant single mutants. In addition, we generated bb ant ail6 triple mutants and find that these plants produce flowers with sepals that are intermediate in size compared with bb and ant ail6. These studies suggest an additive genetic interaction between BB and ANT/AIL6. This result is consistent with either of two hypotheses, that BB and ANT/AIL6 act through independent pathways or that BB is one of many targets of ANT/AIL6 regulation.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Stone, Brea Davis, Hudson	Goldberg, Kelly	Peeking Beneath the Rust: Re-evaluating USC’s History Through Metal Artifact Analysis View Full Text Abstract Text The muddled history of the University of South Carolina can be better understood through the use of archaeology and a variety of preservation techniques. Through the analysis of metal artifacts recovered from USC’s historic Horseshoe using the process of electrolysis, which uses electrical currents to create a chemical reaction in metal, breaking down rust to reveal the original object underneath, we hope to expand the dominant narrative about the history of the University. This will uncover information about the activities of the people who used to live and work there. Following electrolysis, we will engage in metal preservation processes to allow for the continuation of long-term analyses and research. With the expansion of USC, history has been incrementally erased through the construction of modern buildings over historic ones. As a result, certain narratives have been neglected, including those of enslaved people on campus, forming gaps and affecting the knowledge that can be considered common about USC’s history. Analyzing these metal artifacts can help determine labor patterns and migration patterns of the university’s workforce and add to the perspectives available of people from the 19th century to develop our view of university life within the context of this time period. We predict that this research will begin to bridge the gap of USC’s undocumented history.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Adair, Taylor	Armstrong, Bridget Culverhouse, Josh Restino, Meghan Bowen, Kaia	Comparing Methods for Measuring Smartphone Screen Time: Passive Sensing and Screenshot Reports View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Accurate assessment of smartphone use is critical to examine associations between health outcomes and screentime. Prior research has relied on self-report measures prone to reporting bias. Recent approaches include screentime screenshots and passive sensing applications implemented to improve accuracy. Screenshot collection requires participant effort and staff oversight, increasing burden and potential data loss. While passive sensing may reduce participant burden, it requires preprocessing decisions that influence resulting estimates. This study examines how different preprocessing approaches for passive sensing data compare with screentime screenshots in estimates of daily screentime duration. Methods: We analyzed 433 days of Android smartphone passive sensing data and daily screenshots from 39 participants. Passive sensing data were preprocessed using three methods (Uzair, Parry+Toth, and EYEs), each applying rules to identify complete days of data and summarize daily screentime from raw usage logs. Agreement between passive sensing and screenshot-reported daily screentime was assessed using Bland-Altman plots. Mean difference, standard deviation, and 95% limits of agreement (LoA) were used to evaluate comparability between measures. Results: Using the Uzair method the mean difference (screenshot minus passive sensing) was 8.78 minutes (SD=37.78; LoA -65.26 to 82.82), indicating slightly higher values from screenshots. The Parry+Toth method resulted in mean difference of -17.91 mins (SD=45.37; LoA -106.84 to 71.02), while the EYEs method resulted in mean difference of 33.7 mins (SD=52.0; LoA -68.3 to 136). Conclusion: Across methods, bias between passive sensing and screenshots were small, but LoAs were wide., Screenshots cannot be assumed to represent a gold standard, as device algorithms are not fully transparent. In the absence of a definitive ground truth, preprocessing decisions substantially influence daily screentime estimates. Despite providing objective usage logs, passive sensing requires careful processing due to missing data and device-level differences, underscoring the need to evaluate whether screenshot collection is warranted.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Blake, Chesley	Pittman, Douglas	Discovering Drug-Like Compounds by Targeting Protein Interactions Using a Yeast-3-Hybrid System View Full Text Abstract Text Protein-protein interactions are important targets in cancer biology as they can make historically “undruggable” proteins viable drug targets. However, the current approach to targeting protein-protein interactions relies on the use of small molecule drugs, which have low efficiencies as they must cover a large surface area of the interaction and there tends to be a lack of sites for the small molecules to bind to. Further, traditional drug therapies are only capable of targeting a fraction of druggable proteins available, and the use of these sites often leads to off-target toxicity, limiting therapeutic specificity. The objective of this project is to develop a selection system in yeast to identify short peptide sequences that can disrupt protein-protein interactions specific to cancer cells. The first goal of this project is to detect interactions between retinoblastoma (RB1) and human Cyclin A (CCNA2) in the Yeast-2-Hybrid (Y2H) system. Once the CCNA2-RB1 interaction is detected using reporter gene activation in a Y2H system, a third plasmid that encodes for the amino acid sequence HAKRRLIF will be introduced. This peptide sequence was previously demonstrated to disrupt the CCNA2-RB1 interaction in vitro, so the expectation is that it will disrupt the protein-protein interaction in the Y3H system as well. The second goal of this project is to engineer the AH109 strain so that the peptide screen is a selection process rather than a screen. Following this proof of principle and development of the AH109 strain having a new reporter gene, an oligo/peptide library will be generated to develop a high-throughput selection for disruption of any combination of protein interactions. Promising candidates will be converted into peptide-mimetic compounds. Inhibitory drug-like compounds will then be optimized into pharmaceutically relevant compounds with REPLACE (Replacement with Partial Ligand Alternatives through Computational Enrichment) technology.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Ravenell, Aniya Thompson, Jesse	Lewis, Jordan	Determining the role of different innate immune pathways in Caenorhabditis elegans defense against the bacterial pathogen Serratia marcescens View Full Text Abstract Text Innate immune systems are non-specific in that they do not produce unique immune products in response to host exposure to pathogens. However, different components of the host innate immune system can be activated by specific pathogens. Understanding which components of the innate immune system respond to specific pathogens can be useful for identifying which molecular products are responsible for host defense and for predicting how host-parasite evolution may proceed. In this project, we seek to understand how the innate immune system of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans confers defense against the bacterial pathogen Serratia marcescens. We conduct infection assays using mutant C. elegans strains with components of the innate immune system inactivated, and several S. marcescens strains from diverse geographic origins, to answer these questions. Our goal is to 1) determine whether host defense is predominantly conferred by a single immune pathway or multiple pathways, and 2) whether the contributions of different pathways are relatively similar across all Serratia strains, or whether immune pathway response varies by strain. We hypothesize that C. elegans defense against S. marcescens will be predominantly dictated by one immune pathway, and that the response will be conserved across the Serratia strains tested.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Mullinax, Chloe	Pettay, Tye	Characterization of Pond Functioning on Spring Island View Full Text Abstract Text Spring Island in Okatie, SC is an ecologically coconscious private community that maintains a high standard for natural landscape and wildlife protection. They conduct numerous projects including monitoring and maintaining ponds around the island for various uses such as recreational fishing, sightseeing, and overall pond and land health. The ponds may be exposed to contaminants from wildlife and human runoff. During the summer of 2025, we consistently monitored the conditions of 9 ponds around the island in relation to the water health in relation to its surrounding environment. To visually show the weekly condition with the water temperature we graphed the different parameters and water temperature in correlation with each other. Sampling data sets were from the recent school year as well as the past two summers.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Regmi, Paras	Tahani, Mehrnoosh	A Data Reduction Pipeline for Polarimetric Observations with the Dragonfly Telescope Array View Full Text Abstract Text Cosmic magnetic fields play important role in regulating dynamics of interstellar medium, star formations, and the evolution of galaxies. To study these magnetic fields, we examine the polarization of the observed starlight, which reveals the direction and strength of these fields. Polarization refers to the preferred orientation of the oscillations of the electric field vector of light perpendicular to the direction of its propagation. To detect this characteristic of light we use DragonflyPol, a novel telescope project at USC. The Dragonfly Telephoto Array (Dragonfly), a telescope system optimized to capture faint and wide-field images of the sky, was recently upgraded into DragonflyPol to detect linear polarization. However, the raw images coming from the telescope require proper systematic data calibration to obtain reliable polarimetric information. This calibration process which reduces the background and instrumentational noise is called data reduction. In this work, we present DFReducePol, a polarimetric extension to the Dragonfly data reduction pipeline. The pipeline takes raw images captured through linear polarization filters at four different orientations (0°, 45°, 90°, and 135°) and processes them step by step: removing thermal noise from the detector, correcting for uneven pixel illumination, aligning images to accurate sky coordinates, removing background light, and stack multiple images with respect to the filters for better quality. It then measures the brightness of stars in the images and calculates the polarization properties of the starlight. We use observations of known polarized and unpolarized reference stars to identify and correct for false instrumental polarization signals. This extension enables wide-field polarization studies of galaxies and the materials between the interstellar medium using the Dragonfly Telescope Array.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Adhikari, Bishal	Greytak, Andrew B.	Zwitterionic ligand passivation of CsPbBr3 perovskite NCs: Thermodynamic and spectroscopic perspectives. View Full Text Abstract Text Zwitterionic ligand passivation of CsPbBr3 perovskite NCs: Thermodynamic and spectroscopic perspectives. Bishal Adhikari, Moinul Islam, and Andrew B Greytak Abstract: Zwitterionic ligands are recognized as a promising new generation of surface passivating agents for lead-halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs), owing to their ability to mitigate ligand desorption and acid–base equilibrium problems associated with traditional ionic ligand pairs, especially those based on carboxylate / protonated ammonium pairs. In this work, we systematically examine the ligand-exchange behavior of the zwitterionic phospholipid L-phosphatidylcholine (lecithin) on perovskite NCs with varying sizes. Our finding suggests that oleylammonium bromide can be introduced as intermediate, labile ligand to stabilize NCs growth and facilitate subsequent exchange with lecithin. Our results reveal that maintaining a stoichiometric ratio of lecithin to surface sites is critical for preserving NC morphology and avoiding degradation pathways during exchange. Spectroscopic analysis (UV-vis and NMR) together with isothermal titration calorimetry reveal lecithin binds to the perovskite NCs surface by the endothermic process, suggesting that ligand adsorption is driven by entropy: likely due to reorganization of the initial ligand shell rather than direct exothermic coordination. When lecithin is introduced in excess, we observe significant morphological changes, including surface reconstruction, which is corroborated by a significant decrease in photoluminescence.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Quartaro, Elise	McQuail, Joseph	Differential Effects of Chronic Stress on Working Memory Performance and Locus Coeruleus Neurons in Aging Rats View Full Text Abstract Text The locus coeruleus is an area of the brainstem rich in norepinephrine-containing neurons. Norepinephrine is responsible for arousal, and increases alertness and attention. The concentration of LC-NE neurons has been positively correlated with working memory performance, while stress is associated with increases in norepinephrine. Large increases in norepinephrine are detrimental to working memory, but moderate increases are associated with improvements in working memory. Meanwhile, age-related deterioration of the locus coeruleus may decrease norepinephrine, leading to declines in working memory performance. Thus, we hypothesized that chronic variable stress affects working memory performance and causes changes in LC-NE neurons in an age-dependent fashion. Male and female Fischer 344 rats were obtained and tested at 6 and 24 months of age. Rats in the chronic variable stress sample were exposed to a stressor twice daily: either a forced swim in 15 or 25°C water, bobcat or coyote urine, cage flood, or 1-hour physical restraint. To test working memory, they performed a delayed match-to-sample task, with performance being measured as a percentage of correct trials. Chronic stress increased choice accuracy in aged males, but had no effect on aged females. Additionally, across all conditions, females had a higher average choice accuracy than males. Following these protocols, brain tissue was harvested from rats in each group. The brainstem was sectioned and LC-NE neurons were visualized using antibodies raised against tyrosine hydroxylase. TH+ neurons were counted manually using a microscope. Preliminary results suggest that TH+ cells were fewer in stressed rats than unstressed rats, with no difference between age groups. Our results support our hypothesis that stress differentially affects working memory across lifespan with impacts at the level of the LC. Future studies could investigate if stress-related changes to the locus coeruleus are correlated to activation, neurodegeneration or neural inflammation, using c-Fos, NeuN and Iba+ staining.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Sieger, Annemarie	Roberts, Mark Quattro, Joseph	Clarification of the Taxonomic Status of common Morella species in South Carolina View Full Text Abstract Text Identification and recognition of lesser-studied flora is critical to the conservation of economically and medicinally significant species. Morella, a genus of plants notable for their agricultural and medicinal uses has undergone extensive reclassification and taxonomic mischaracterization. Especially for lesser-known Morella species, inadequate documentation, a paucity of genetic research, and an ongoing debate over valid nomenclature make identification difficult, hampering conservation efforts and bioprospecting within the genus for medicinally significant compounds. Three abundant native Morella species from South Carolina – Morella cerifera (wax myrtle), Morella caroliniensis (swamp bayberry), and Morella pusilla (dwarf bayberry) – lack taxonomic confidence and genetic support to reliably categorize them as distinct species; especially given the possibility of habitat specific phenotypic plasticity. Here we discuss progress on genetic research attempting to address the taxonomic distinctiveness of the three native Morella species. Morella were collected from ten sampling locations throughout South Carolina. Genomic DNA was extracted, and DNA barcoding primers designed to amplify the ITS2 locus were used to amplify target DNA and generate genetic barcoding sequences. These sequences were used to assign samples to known taxa in the online genetic repository Genbank using the SAP (Statistical Assignment Package) software. Additionally, these data, plus similar sequences from Genbank of closely related species (congeners as well as non-congeners), were used to construct phylogenetic trees. These phylogenetic trees were used to assess population structure and identify patterns of reciprocal monophyly between sampling sites. A Bayesian analysis was conducted to estimate dates for historical common ancestors between sample sites. Additionally, standard population metrics (observed heterozygosity, Hardy Weinberg equilibrium, nucleotide diversity, Fst, etc.) were determined. These findings will be discussed in the context of potential insights into population dynamics and conservation priorities.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Holly, Khufu	Webb, Clinton Rodrigues dos Passos, Rinaldo	Increased Mechanical Stretch Drives Inflammasome Activation and Endothelial and Vascular Cell Dysfunction. View Full Text Abstract Text Hypertension is the leading preventable risk factor for death and cardiovascular disease globally. Vascular dysfunction, a key factor in hypertension, is associated with endothelial impairment, vascular remodeling, and inflammation. The absent-in-melanoma-2 (AIM2) inflammasome promotes the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines via gasdermin D (GSDMD) pores in the cell membrane, therefore contributing to inflammation. This study hypothesizes that the increased cyclic mechanical stretch in vascular cells caused by hypertension triggers inflammasome activation and endothelial and vascular dysfunction. To test this hypothesis, vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) were cultured on flexible-bottom BioFlex plates and subjected to cyclic tensile strain using the Flexcell Tension system. Cyclic stretch magnitudes were selected to reflect hypertensive vascular strain and account for cell-specific mechanosensitivity, with VSMCs exposed to 10% and ECs to 15% elongation, with 5% representing normotension. Cells cultured in the absence of mechanical stimulation were used as static controls (SC). Cells were cyclically pressurized with a half-sine waveform to mimic systolic-diastolic pressure variations for 24 hours. Statistical differences were assessed using one-way ANOVA with significance set at p < 0.05. VSMCs exposed to 10% stretch showed increased release of lactate dehydrogenase (p<0.05), a marker of plasma membrane damage, and malondialdehyde (p<0.05), a key marker of oxidative stress, compared with 5% and SC. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that 10% stretch caused morphological alterations consistent with vascular remodeling in VSMCs. Exposure of ECs to 15% stretch for 24 hours promoted an upregulation of the inflammasome genes AIM2 and GSDMD, as well as the vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1), a key marker for endothelial activation and dysfunction, as observed by RTqPCR. No changes were observed between SC and 5% conditions. Together, these data suggest that 24 hours of hypertensive mechanical stretch is enough to induce inflammasome activation, endothelial dysfunction, and vascular remodeling.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lawrence, Madeline	Coulombe, Brianne	Caregiver Marijuana Use, Psychologically Aggressive Parenting, and Childhood Aggression View Full Text Abstract Text Caregiver substance use is related to a host of negative outcomes in and beyond childhood (e.g., psychopathology, academic problems, etc., Velleman, 2016). Marijuana use by caregivers predicts child aggression (Wesemann et al, 2022). One mechanism of this association may be the use of psychological aggression (i.e., threatening or demeaning language) in discipline. Caregivers who use marijuana are more likely to use psychological aggression towards their children (Wesemann et al., 2022). The impact of psychological aggression on child aggression is less clear, as many studies evaluate psychological and physical discipline tactics together (Bozzay et al., 2020). The current study evaluated a mediation model wherein caregiver marijuana use was expected to predict elevations in psychologically aggressive discipline and greater aggressive behavior across middle childhood (i.e., age 4-10). Participants were 250 child-caregiver dyads from a longitudinal study of child development. When children were 4, caregivers reported the number of times they used marijuana in the past year (M = 2.11; SD = 1.46). When children were 4 and 6, caregivers reported frequency with which they used psychological aggression in discipline (i.e., threatened to send your child away) using the Parent-Child Conflict Tactics Scale (Strauss et al., 1979). When children were 10, caregivers reported their child’s aggressive behavior using the Reactive-Proactive Aggression Questionnaire (Dodge & Coie, 1987). Mediation analyses conducted in Hayes’ PROCESS revealed a significant indirect effect of caregiver marijuana use on child aggression via psychologically-aggressive discipline (B = 0.010, SE = 0.006, 95% CI [0.001, 0.247]). Analyses controlled for socioeconomic status, gender, prior psychological aggression, and prior child aggression. The current study highlights psychologically-aggressive discipline as a pathway by which caregiver marijuana use eventuates negative outcomes for children. Existing research has focused primarily on other forms of abuse (i.e., physical, neglect; Tucker, 2022).This study offers evidence that psychological aggression should be considered equally for child-wellbeing.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Luallen, Talia Tumsuden, Michaela	Cooper, Daniel Ponder, Darha Lupini, Francesca	Black Parent Perspectives on Cultural Relevance and Program Experience in a Virtual Parenting Program View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Black youth are disproportionately impacted by structural inequities, including racial bias, leading to adverse health outcomes. Prior research suggests that ethnic-racial socialization (ERS), or the way parents teach children about race, culture, and preparing for bias, may be protective for Black youth by promoting positive ethnic identity and psychosocial outcomes. Parenting programs have been shown to improve child and family health outcomes. However, few have been designed specifically for Black families and even fewer incorporate ERS. Therefore, the present study explored Black parents’ perspectives on their participation in a six-week virtual parenting program that integrated ERS. Methods: Data was drawn from eight semi-structured qualitative interviews with Black parents following program completion. Interviews focused on which sessions were most and least helpful, perceptions of cultural relevance, and reactions to the session addressing race and culture. Thematic analysis was used to extract overarching themes, with each event independently coded and reconciled. Results: Several primary themes were identified, including: perceived cultural relevance, helpful intervention content, and ways to improve the intervention. Many participants found the intervention to be culturally relevant, noting the inclusion of representation-based materials, especially children’s books affirming hair texture, skin tone, and identity. While many parents valued explicit discussions preparing their child for bias and sending positive cultural messages, others perceived some of this content as developmentally premature or less directly tied to child behavior goals. Several participants recommended integrating cultural content across sessions rather than one session. Parents consistently commended behavior-focused sessions, particularly managing misbehavior, positive reinforcement, and behavior tracking, as the most practical and applicable beyond the program. Conclusions: Findings suggest Black caregivers value programs that combine practical behavior strategies with culturally affirming content supporting racial socialization. Centering Black parents’ perspectives may strengthen cultural responsiveness and enhance real-world applicability, supporting positive developmental outcomes and disparity-reduction efforts.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Namineni, Dharmik	Reynolds, Alexandria Green, Jessica	Improving Sleep with a Blue-Light Blocking Amber Lenses Intervention for College Students with Poor Sleep Quality View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: Evening blue light exposure from electronics can interfere with natural circadian rhythms and disrupt sleep. College students commonly use electronics before bed, a behavior associated with poor sleep quality. Blue-light blocking glasses (BBGs) with amber lenses offer a non-invasive option to filter this light and reduce its impact. Actigraphy-based studies show improvements in sleep metrics (total sleep time [TST], sleep efficiency, etc.) when BBGs are worn before bed. Building on these findings, this study investigates the effect of BBGs on objective sleep metrics in college students with poor sleep quality. Methods: Participants included 6 (male=3) full-time undergraduate students (mean age=19.83, SD=1.47 years) who reported poor sleep quality (global screening scores ≥5 and/or sleep efficiency scores ≤82% on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index). They completed one week of typical sleep (baseline), followed by two weeks wearing BBGs two hours prior to bedtime. Across 3-weeks, participants wore a wrist actigraph (Philips Respironics) to assess Time in Bed (TIB), TST, Sleep Onset Latency (SOL), sleep efficiency, Wake After Sleep Onset (WASO), and number of awakenings. Results: Preliminary paired-samples t-tests were conducted. Both TIB (Baseline=484.3 min, Intervention=537.0 min, t(5)=-4.871, p=.005) and TST (Baseline=398.5 min, Intervention=447.5 min, t(5)=-5.527, p=.003) increased after the intervention. Although not statistically significant (p=.312), a moderate effect size (d=0.458) was observed for improved SOL (Baseline=24.6 min; Intervention=19.7 min). Differences were not statistically significant for sleep efficiency, WASO, or number of awakenings. Conclusion: These findings suggest wearing BBGs before bedtime may increase time spent in bed and sleep duration. Moderate effect sizes for reduced SOL suggest that participants may fall asleep more easily with reduced blue light exposure. As reducing electronic use in college students is challenging due to lifestyle factors, BBGs may present a more feasible way to reduce blue light exposure before bedtime and enhance sleep health.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lieberman, Madeline	Deflem, Mathieu	AI and Academic Integrity: A Review of University Policies View Full Text Abstract Text The rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education has expanded learning support and instructional tools while complicating long-standing norms of academic integrity. This research surveys existing institutional policies on AI and academic integrity at various universities, including the University of South Carolina, its peer and peer-aspirant institutions, and additional SEC-member schools. Data were primarily collected by means of targeted searches on university websites and, if no information was found, via a search on Google. Relevant policy webpages were saved as files organized per individual university. If additional information was needed after this initial search, emails were formally sent to deans, offices of academic integrity, offices of provost, and even the student affairs office. Some deans and offices replied with additional information or information that had already been found. These emails were also saved in files organized by universities. Results of the data collection revealed two dominant policy approaches: 1) academic integrity frameworks that reference AI but delegate allowable use to individual instructors (often supported by sample syllabus language or tiered permission scales); and 2) university-wide expectations that presume AI is not permitted for coursework unless explicitly authorized by an instructor. Across the SEC and nearby peer institutions, strict blanket prohibitions were uncommon. Most schools emphasize instructor clarity, student disclosure, and alignment with existing misconduct categories (e.g., plagiarism, falsification). Overall, findings suggest universities are actively negotiating a shifting boundary between legitimate assistance and misconduct, with policy clarity and instructor communication emerging as central mechanisms for maintaining academic honesty.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
DePratter, Dawson	Alshareef, Ahmed	Biofidelic Phantom Headform Model for Traumatic Brain Injury View Full Text Abstract Text Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) impacts approximately 69 million people globally each year, frequently resulting from high-impact sports collisions or automotive accidents. A tool to evaluate the effectiveness of safety equipment is physical headform phantoms that measure intracranial kinematics. However, current industrial headforms often oversimplify the brain-skull interface, neglecting the internal dynamics necessary for precise kinematic measurements. The objective of this study is to develop a more anatomically biofidelic 3D-printed phantom headform to serve as a high-fidelity tool for physical impact testing. By utilizing computer-aided design (CAD), we built a finite element (FE) mode of the brain-skull interface using known volume fractions of the trabeculae within the subarachnoid space and detailed thicknesses of the surrounding meningeal layers—the dura, arachnoid, and pia mater—to better mimic real-world cerebral tissue kinematics. Soft 3D-printed materials were selected based on mechanical testing of a specialized FormLabs 50A silicone resin in tensile to ensure its behavior aligns with human brain tissue. Material data was analyzed using LS-Dyna finite element modeling and compared against experimental brain-skull interface literature. Following iterative design adjustments to optimize 3D printing supports and subsections, the final headform will be assembled with a brain stimulant and strategically placed sensors. This innovation will eventually be tested using a blunt force and analyzed to provide an accessible, accurate surrogate that can enhance laboratory testing for TBI, ultimately informing the development of superior protective devices for athletes, automotive safety, and military personnel.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Ruffin, Gyasi Roberts, William	Shustova, Natalia Smith, Danielle	Design of Photochromic Metal-Organic Frameworks for Mixed Metal Extraction View Full Text Abstract Text Selective capture of metal ions from complex mixtures remains a significant challenge in the fields of chemical separations and resource recovery. Photochromic metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) offer a promising solution by combining the structural stability and porosity of crystalline frameworks with the dynamic, reversible behavior of light-responsive molecular units. For example, spiropyran derivatives undergo reversible structural transformations upon UV irradiation to form a zwitterionic merocyanine species capable of coordinating metal ions. By integrating photochromic molecules, such as spiropyran moieties, within a porous support, these materials provide an opportunity to control metal–ligand interactions using light as a noninvasive, external stimulus. Despite growing interest in photoresponsive frameworks, fundamental studies that isolate and examine light-driven metal coordination remain relatively underexplored. A deeper understanding of the interactions between the photochromic molecule and the coordinated metal is essential for interpreting and predicting behavior within extended framework environments. In this work, we investigate the fundamental coordination behavior of a photochromic spiropyran-based ligand (CSP) with metal cations in solution as a model for interactions that occur within a MOF. These molecular studies provide key insight into how light-induced structural changes influence metal binding. Building on this understanding, CSP was synthesized and subsequently installed into a zirconium-based MOF scaffold, UiO-67, through post-synthetic modification while preserving the crystallinity and structural integrity of the parent material. Preliminary binding studies using lanthanide ions reveal the coordination tendencies of CSP and serve as a guide for predicting interactions within the extended framework. By emphasizing fundamental molecular interactions alongside material synthesis, this work establishes a foundation for the rational design of photoresponsive frameworks capable of selective and tunable metal ion sequestration.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Ottone, Brennan	Jasnow, Aaron	Cholinergic signaling in the anterior cingulate cortex influences the formation of contextual memory indexes in the hippocampus View Full Text Abstract Text Hippocampal indexing theory proposes that episodic memories are encoded as indexes that bind unique neocortical ensembles representing the features of an experience. The hippocampus (HPC) does not store the entire contextual memory locally; instead, it forms a relational index linking regional cortical representations. This enables retrieval later through pattern completion. The precision of index formation during encoding is critical for subsequent contextual discrimination and has implications for memory specificity and accuracy. We tested whether cholinergic signaling in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) influences HPC contributions to contextual memory specificity during fear encoding. Mice were pre-exposed to context B and subsequently fear-conditioned in a novel context A. Before conditioning in context A, animals received either vehicle, the non-selective muscarinic antagonist scopolamine, the specific M1 receptor antagonist VU255035, or the non-competitive nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) antagonist mecamylamine. Manipulations of muscarinic receptors had a minor effect on fear acquisition but had no effect on fear recall when mice were tested in either context. When mecamylamine was infused locally in the ACC, there was no difference in fear acquisition. However, during a subsequent test in context B, mecamylamine-treated mice exhibited significantly greater freezing than vehicle controls, indicating reduced contextual discrimination and a less precise contextual memory. Within an indexing framework, these findings suggest that cholinergic signaling in the ACC through nicotinic receptors during encoding contributes to the formation of a precise contextual index. Disruption of this signaling degrades contextual specificity, increasing representational overlap between contexts A and B and promoting generalization at test. We are currently examining the representation of the hippocampal index using the neuronal activity marker c-Fos. We hypothesize that mice treated with mecamylamine will show a more restricted pattern of c-Fos expression, reflecting greater ensemble overlap.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Baker, Mariel Perdomo, Ashley	Webb, Emily	Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus: Pathogenesis, Epidemiology, and Public Health Implications View Full Text Abstract Text Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV), also known as “Triple E,” is a highly virulent mosquito-borne virus endemic to areas along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. Although human infections are relatively rare, the disease can cause severe neurological illness and carries a high mortality rate in both humans and animals. Infection occurs when mosquitoes transmit the virus from enzootic bird reservoirs to humans or other mammals. Following infection, viral replication and immune-mediated inflammation can lead to encephalitis and significant neurological damage. Recent evidence suggests that environmental changes, including climate change, may be contributing to an expansion of the virus’s geographic range by altering mosquito distribution and increasing vector populations. Because no approved antiviral treatments currently exist for EEEV, preventative measures such as virus surveillance, vector control, and public health awareness remain critical. This project reviews the pathogenesis and epidemiology of EEEV while examining historical surveillance data and environmental factors that may influence transmission risk. Understanding these factors is essential for identifying high-risk regions, informing mosquito control strategies, and improving public health preparedness.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Niamira, Darya	Enos, Reilly Hope, Trey	Independent Effects of Skeletal Muscle-Specific Aromatase Overexpression and Voluntary Wheel Running on Adiposity and Insulin Sensitivity in Female Mice View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: Estrogen plays a critical role in regulating skeletal muscle mass, body composition, and metabolic function in females. Aromatase converts androgens to estrogens, enabling local estrogen production within skeletal muscle. While muscle-derived estrogen may influence metabolic homeostasis, the physiological impact of skeletal muscle–specific aromatase overexpression, particularly in the context of physical activity, remains unclear. This study examined how increased skeletal muscle estrogen production interacts with voluntary exercise to influence body composition and metabolic outcomes in female mice. Methods: Female mice with inducible skeletal muscle–specific aromatase overexpression (SkM-Arom↑) and littermate wild-type (WT) controls were assigned to either sedentary conditions or voluntary wheel running. All mice were fed a high-fat diet. Body weight, adiposity, and glucose homeostasis were assessed to determine the independent and combined effects of genotype and physical activity. Results: There was a main effect of skeletal muscle aromatase overexpression to reduce adiposity compared to WT controls. Independent of genotype, voluntary wheel running improved insulin sensitivity. While both genotype and physical activity influenced metabolic outcomes, no significant interaction between aromatase overexpression and wheel running was observed. Conclusion: Skeletal muscle–specific aromatase overexpression reduces adiposity in female mice, whereas voluntary wheel running enhances insulin sensitivity. These findings suggest that local estrogen production in skeletal muscle and physical activity independently contribute to improvements in metabolic health under high-fat diet conditions.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Leone, Gianna	Armstead, Cheryl	An Integrative Stress Eating Model of Body Mass Index: Moderated Indirect Effects of Stress Eating and Interleukin 6 View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Obesity is a leading modifiable risk factor for at least 13 cancers, including breast, colorectal, and endometrial cancers. Chronic psychological stress contributes to obesity risk through behavioral and immune-metabolic dysregulation. Many individuals cope with stress by consuming highly palatable, energy-dense foods as an emotion-regulation strategy to reduce anxiety and negative affect. The Integrative Stress Eating Framework (ISEF) conceptualizes stress eating as a coping behavior that biologically embeds stress via inflammatory and metabolic pathways leading to obesity. Heightened perceived stress amplifies hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, metabolic, and immune responses, potentially strengthening the impact of stress-related eating on body mass index (BMI), a cancer risk factor, particularly in midlife and older adulthood. Purpose: To test whether perceived stress amplifies indirect effects of stress eating on BMI through inflammatory (interleukin-6 [IL-6], C-reactive protein [CRP]), metabolic (insulin), and anxiety-related pathways. Methods: The sample included 616 adults aged 50+ from MIDUS II and its biomarker project with complete psychosocial and biomarker data. Moderated mediation was tested using Hayes PROCESS Model 59 with 5,000 bootstrap samples. Results: The overall model predicting BMI was significant (R² = .452, p < .001). Stress eating was directly associated with higher BMI (b = .0115, SE = .0026, p < .001). IL-6, CRP, insulin, and anxious arousal independently predicted BMI (all ps ≤ .006). A significant stress-amplified indirect effect emerged for IL-6, present only at high perceived stress (+1 SD; indirect effect = .0007, 95% CI [.0001, .0034]). Insulin mediated without moderation. Anxiety-related variables showed no indirect effects. Conclusions: Findings support ISEF, identifying inflammatory and metabolic stress responses as conditional pathways linking coping-motivated stress eating to cancer-relevant adiposity. Cancer prevention interventions must be developed to specifically target dimensions of stress-related eating among adults aged 50+.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Rath, Saryu	Meekins, Benjamin	Polybenzimidazole (PBI)-based Catalyst Coated Membranes (CCMs) for High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane (HT-PEM) Fuel Cells View Full Text Abstract Text High-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs) are promising for automotive and stationary power applications due to simplified water management, improved tolerance to carbon monoxide and sulfur contaminants, and faster reaction kinetics when operated above 120 °C without external humidification. In industry, perfluoro sulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes like Nafion are conventionally used but fail at elevated temperatures due to water evaporation and thermal management demands, catalyst poisoning sensitivity, and reduced conductivity and durability under low-humidity conditions. Polybenzimidazole (PBI)-based membranes doped with phosphoric acid provide a viable HT-PEM alternative, but catalyst-coated membrane (CCM) fabrication for PBI systems remains underdeveloped because membrane swelling and wet surfaces complicate direct catalyst coating and interfacial stability. In this project, PBI-based CCMs were fabricated using a platinum catalyst ink formulated using isopropyl alcohol, water, and PTFE solution, dispersed via ball-milling and sonication, and drawn out with an applicator to produce a uniform, opaque catalyst layer on the decal for transfer onto the membrane. We observed the effects of ink preparation, decal transfer temperature and pressure, and subsequent assembly of the gas diffusion layers with the CCM on the resulting CCM performance in a fuel cell device. We found that a transfer temperature of 200 oC gave the best catalyst layer transfer, but transfer pressure must be optimized to maximize catalyst layer transfer without causing membrane creep. Polarization curves, a measure of CCM performance, are shown and discussed.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Motte, Jordan	Stodden, David	Comparison of TOPS and PMC Profiles in ROTC Cadets View Full Text Abstract Text Psychological skills and well-being are important for successful military careers. Need fulfillment of psychological skills has been linked to high perceptions of competence and autonomy in military training, but less is established in the context of Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Previous research has confirmed a relationship between fundamental motor competence and Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) that helps ROTC programs assess how a cadet will perform on the ACFT based on their motor competence. The goal of this study is to examine associations between perceived motor competence (PMC) and the Test of Performance Strategies (TOPS). The present study will examine different profiles of TOPS and PMC data in ROTC cadets at a Military College and a large university in the Southeast US. The Test of Performance Strategies (TOPS) is a self report questionnaire that examines athletes’ use of sixteen psychological skills across practice and competition settings. This study focuses on four of the subscales: goal setting, activation, relaxation, and emotional control. Each item is scored on a five point Likert response scale, where a five means more frequent use of skills, and a one means no use of skills. Another self report questionnaire examines perceived motor competence on a six point Likert response scale, where six means very true and one means very false for questions about perception of performance. Our hypothesis is that reported skills in TOPS and reports of perception of performance will have similar relationships across the profiles of TOPS and PMC data in ROTC cadets. Findings can inform ROTC programs on psychological needs that may need to be met and whether enhancing PMC may be a useful focus area to improve performance and military readiness.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Froedge, Ella	Colebank, Mitchel	Modeling Endothelin One and Nitric Oxide in the Brain View Full Text Abstract Text In the body’s vasculature system, pathways are influenced by constant changes in enzymatic activity, integrin and protein behavior, and bindings of ligands and receptors. These pathways may be responsible for cell proliferation, motility, survival, and other vital processes and are dependent on signals for continuation. Both vasoconstriction and vasodilation are two effects that show how these vascular cascades progress. In this project, a schematic of the brain’s vasculature pathways will be demonstrated through a mathematical model. By modeling the responses of nitric oxide and endothelin response, we can show the connection between vascular endothelial cells and extracellular cues, such as hypoxia and shear stress. This project highlights the biomechanical framework of an endothelial signaling system and gives visualization of how the brains vascular system works to interact and respond to changing blood flow and other events within cerebrovascular behavior.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Maloney, Julia	Fillo, Jennifer Blakley, Morgan	Secondary traumatic stress among U.S. military spouses: Relations with mental health, substance use, and relationship functioning View Full Text Abstract Text Secondary traumatic stress (STS) is the presence of symptoms similar to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) which result from being indirectly exposed to the traumatic experiences of others. Despite extensive research on the consequences of trauma among military service members, there is limited data on how this exposure impacts spouses. The present research examined (1) the prevalence of STS among military spouses, and (2) relations between STS and spouse mental health, substance use, and relationship functioning. Data were drawn from a study examining health among U.S. Army Reserve/National Guard soldiers and their partners. The analytic sample included female spouses with no prior military history (N=320). STS was defined as the presence of PTSD symptoms above an established threshold (PCL-5 scores ≥31) without ever personally experiencing a traumatic event. Regression analyses examined relations between PTSD symptoms and mental health, substance use, and relationship functioning variables, controlling for service member PTSD symptoms, years of military service, and the service member’s equivalent score on the outcome variable. For civilian spouses with no prior traumatic event (N=119), 76.5% reported some degree of PTSD symptoms. Of these spouses, 9.2% met criteria for probable PTSD. Among civilian spouses without a prior traumatic event, their PTSD symptoms predicted greater depressive symptoms, anxiety, and anger. Spouse PTSD symptoms predicted higher alcohol use, more frequent heavy drinking, greater alcohol use problems, and higher likelihood of tobacco use. Additionally, spouse PTSD symptoms predicted lower marital satisfaction. Results revealed strong evidence of STS among military spouses. Nearly 1 in 10 civilian spouses met criteria for probable PTSD without having experienced their own traumatic event. These symptoms were associated with a range of negative mental health, substance use, and relationship functioning outcomes. Further research using dyadic approaches to study military-related trauma may benefit the future care of service members and their families.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Pence, Sarah Wiggins, Anna	Yang, Xueying	HIV Drug Resistance Among People Living with HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa Using Population-based HIV Impact Assessments: 2020–2023 View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Despite progress in the uptake of antiretroviral therapy, HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) remains a public health threat in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), due to limited healthcare resources. Using HIVDR surveillance data in SSA, Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (PHIA), we estimated the individual and country-level prevalence of HIVDR among people living with HIV (PLWH) between 2020 and 2023. Methods: This study analyzed combined PHIA HIVDR data from Tanzania, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Uganda, and Zimbabwe among PLWH aged ≥15 years tested for resistance to either protease and reverse transcriptase inhibitors (PRRT) or integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs). HIVDR was determined through genotypic testing of blood samples from PLWH. The presence of at least one drug resistance mutation associated with nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), protease inhibitors (PIs), or INSTIs was classified as evidence of HIVDR. Results: A total of 3,344 individuals tested for at least one antiretroviral drug class were included in the analysis. The prevalence of HIV drug resistance across the seven countries was 36.27%, with country-specific estimates ranging from 28.13% in Tanzania to 46.11% in Zimbabwe. The highest prevalence of resistance was observed for NNRTIs at 32.49%, ranging from 20.95% in Tanzania to 34.29% in Uganda. Resistance to PIs was the lowest at 2.70%, with estimates ranging from 1.07% in Zimbabwe to 4.03% in Eswatini. INSTI resistance testing was conducted in five countries, with an overall prevalence of 6.60%, ranging from 0.31% in Zimbabwe to 10.78% in Uganda. Conclusion: Findings highlight the substantial prevalence of HIVDR in SSA, with the highest resistance to NNRTIs and prevalence in Zimbabwe. Targeted interventions, strengthening retention in care, improving early diagnosis, and ongoing surveillance are crucial to mitigating the burden of emerging HIV drug resistance.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Cargill, Michael	De Backer, Wout	Robotic Large Format Additive Manufacturing for On-Demand Tooling for Composites View Full Text Abstract Text The increasing use of carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) in aerospace and advanced manufacturing has created significant demand for tooling that can withstand composite fabrication processes. Traditional tooling materials provide dimensional stability and durability but are associated with high costs ($5,000 to over $100,000) and lead times that can extend from months to years. This project investigates the feasibility of using robotic large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) to produce polymer-based composite tooling as a lower-cost, rapid alternative. Leveraging the University of South Carolina’s pellet-fed, single-screw extruder mounted on a Kuka KR60 robotic manipulator, this research evaluates the performance of 3D-printed polymer molds for complex curved composite structures. The study addresses three primary questions: whether printed polymer tooling can withstand composite manufacturing processes, how the resulting composite quality compares to that produced with traditional tooling, and which design and process parameters most significantly influence tool performance. The methodology consists of three phases: tool manufacturing, composite manufacturing, and comparative analysis. A tooling geometry will be designed, tool-pathed, printed using LFAM, and CNC-finished to final dimensions. Both the printed and traditional tools will then undergo identical composite manufacturing processes. Performance metrics will be measured to benchmark printed tooling against conventional methods. It is anticipated that polymer-based tooling will demonstrate functional viability with minor reductions in quality compared to traditional tooling, while offering substantial reductions in cost and lead time. This research aims to expand in-house composite manufacturing capabilities and contribute to more accessible, responsive tooling solutions for aerospace applications.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Zahn, Jacob	Shtutman, Michael	Production and Quantification of EcoHIV: A Rodent-Specific Model of HIV Infection View Full Text Abstract Text Despite advances in antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV infection remains a significant global health problem. More than 40 million people live with HIV worldwide, and new infections continue to occur yearly, including hundreds of cases annually in South Carolina. Although ART effectively suppresses viral replication, people living with HIV still experience an increased risk of long-term complications such as cardiovascular disease, neurocognitive decline, and reduced life expectancy. Understanding the biological mechanisms underlying these complications requires experimental models that allow investigation of HIV infection at the organismal level. However, HIV does not naturally infect rodents, limiting the use of conventional mouse models for in vivo studies. To address this limitation, EcoHIV, a modified HIV variant capable of infecting rodent cells, was developed. In EcoHIV, the viral envelope required for cell entry is replaced with the envelope protein from ecotropic murine leukemia virus, allowing infection of rodent cells while preserving essential aspects of HIV biology. Reliable production and quantification of EcoHIV viral stocks are therefore critical for experimental studies. In this project, we established a reproducible workflow for EcoHIV production and purification. EcoHIV plasmid DNA was amplified in NEB Stable Escherichia coli and purified using an endotoxin-free plasmid preparation. The purified plasmid was used for transient transfection of HEK 293FT cells at approximately 60% confluency. For each 100-mm dish, 6 µg of EcoHIV plasmid DNA was complexed with polyethyleneimine prior to addition to cells. Viral supernatants were collected, clarified by 0.45 µm filtration, and concentrated by centrifugation at 4 °C. For accurate viral titer quantification, we established a digital PCR (dPCR) assay using four fluorescent probes targeting distinct regions of the viral genome. By partitioning samples into thousands of nanoliter reactions and applying Poisson statistics, dPCR enables absolute quantification of viral genomes without standard curves, providing precise and reproducible measurement of EcoHIV titers.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Feng, Xiaoyu	Kiaris, Hippokratis	Defining CCR5 as a Primary Functional Receptor for CCL8 in Tumor Development View Full Text Abstract Text Chemokine–receptor signaling is highly redundant, with individual chemokines often interacting with multiple receptors to regulate immune cell trafficking and inflammatory responses. CCL8 has been reported to bind several chemokine receptors, including CCR5, yet the dominant functional receptor mediating CCL8 signaling in vivo remains unclear. Clarifying whether CCR5 acts as a primary receptor for CCL8 is important for understanding chemokine-driven tumor inflammation and identifying potential therapeutic targets in cancer. To functionally test the CCL8–CCR5 signaling axis, we employed parallel CCR5-knockout (receptor) and CCL8-knockout (ligand) mouse models in a tumor-prone background and longitudinally evaluated tumor latency, incidence, and growth kinetics using caliper-based volumetric analysis. Comparisons among CCR5-deficient, CCL8-deficient, and control mice were used to determine whether disruption of the receptor or its ligand alters tumor progression in a similar manner. Preliminary observations from a small pilot cohort (n = 1–2 mice per group) suggest that disruption of the CCL8–CCR5 axis may influence tumor development. Both CCR5-knockout and CCL8-knockout mice exhibited delayed tumor onset and reduced tumor growth relative to control animals. Although limited by sample size, these findings suggest that CCR5 may function as a key receptor mediating CCL8-driven tumor progression. Ongoing cohort expansion will enable robust statistical analysis and further clarify the role of the CCL8–CCR5 signaling axis in vivo.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Arora, Aastha	Herter, Troy	Cognitive Impairment and Fatigue Across Clinical Subtypes of Parkinson’s Disease View Full Text Abstract Text Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by degeneration of dopamine neurons and accumulation of Lewy bodies in the brain. Development of PD is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, and results in a range of motor and non-motor symptoms that impact quality of life. The two main subtypes of PD are Tremor Dominant (TD) and Postural Instability and Gait Difficulty (PIGD). While these subtypes exhibit differences in motor symptoms, the extent to which non-motor symptoms vary between them remains unclear.  Cognitive decline is a common and clinically significant non-motor symptom of PD that is often measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Fatigue is another prevalent and complex non-motor symptom that is measured using both subjective self-report scales and objective assessments. Emerging research suggests that non-motor symptoms may be more severe in the PIGD subtype, but the degree of differences in cognitive impairment and fatigue exhibited by the subtypes remains uncertain.   This study aimed to examine differences in cognition and fatigue severity between the TD and PIGD subtypes of PD and their potential impact on clinical management. Cognitive functions were evaluated using the MoCA, and fatigue was assessed with the Parkinson Fatigue Scale (PFS) total score. This research will create a deeper understanding of how non-motor symptoms vary between the clinical subtypes, which could improve quality of life for individuals with PD by enhancing early diagnosis, treatment strategies, and clinical management of PD.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lanham, Laila Taylor, Jordan	Stodden, David Altintas, Ozgur	Comparison of holistic developmental profiles between childhood and pre-adolescents. View Full Text Abstract Text Holistic development is integral in child and pre-adolescent development for becoming functional members of society. Multiple developmental domains (i.e., emotional, social, physical, cognitive, and psychological) play a vital role in long-term health and wellbeing, starting from childhood carrying into pre-adolescence and adulthood. However, there is a lack of research on holistic development, specifically in children and pre-adolescence. Thus, the purpose of this study is to identify holistic development profiles and examine potential differences in profiles within two critical developmental stages (i.e., childhood and pre-adolescence). In this study, we will identify the holistic development profiles of children, grades 3rd and 4th, and pre-adolescents, grades 5th and 6th, using the data we collected from actual and perceived motor competence, health related fitness, executive functions, motivation and social and personal responsibility. We hypothesize that different profiles will emerge depending on the developmental stage of the child. The results of this study will provide a more personalized picture of children and adolescents’ holistic development and promote more comprehensive intervention efforts for children and adolescents. Understanding holistic development across these stages is important because it creates a more person centered style of learning and understanding of development.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Trask, Julia	Schuler, Whitney Wang, Qian Myrick, Michael	Optimizing Surfactant Concentrations in Solutions of Polystyrene Microspheres for Fluidic Systems View Full Text Abstract Text Latex microspheres are commonly used for the evaluation of or as substrates for assays in fluidic systems. Adsorption of these beads to the walls of the systems’ tubing or other fluidic components can lead to errors in data interpretation, cross contamination, and obstruction of fluid pathways. Surfactants are a common method of reducing particle sticking, though there is no published work evaluating the performance of surfactants quantitatively. This project looks to decrease particle sticking in platinum coated silicon tubing matrices by determining optimal flow conditions for polystyrene microspheres by utilizing different surfactants of varying concentrations in a 20% glycerol solution. By matching the densities of the glycerol solutions to the density of the polystyrene microspheres and using the optimal concentration of an ideal surfactant, the microspheres should be neutrally buoyant and neutrally charged, therefore preventing particle adherences to the inner walls of the tubing. To investigate this, solutions of varying surfactant concentrations with a known density of 25 µm fluorescent yellow-green polystyrene microspheres were infused through a straight channel of platinum coated silicon tubing. Tests were performed by passing a fixed volume of a dense particle suspension through a length of tubing, after which a manual count of microspheres sticking to the walls was used to provide statistics on particle adsorption as a function of surfactant treatment. Preventing adsorption of these microspheres will prevent the loss of particles in tubing systems and will ensure more normalized velocities of particles in flowing solutions, which can be applied to more elaborate flowcytometric systems and experiments.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Ross, J.D.	Barbeau, David	Constraining the age of the weathered lower Chinle Formation, Paradox Basin, Utah View Full Text Abstract Text Climatic perturbations that alter the hydrologic cycle may strongly influence salt deformation, affecting surface uplift and synkinematic sedimentation. The Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE) represents a major humid interval interrupting the otherwise arid Triassic and provides an opportunity to investigate climate–halokinetic coupling. Here I will investigate the timing of Upper Triassic fluvial growth strata of the Chinle Formation preserved within actively subsiding salt-withdrawal minibasins between rising salt walls in the Paradox Basin, Utah. I hypothesize that increased salt deformation rates responsible for the growth strata were driven by CPE-related moisture, which promoted near-surface salt dissolution and increased sediment generation, leading to accelerated salt-withdrawal and enhanced minibasin subsidence rates. I will test the hypothesis of CPE causality through the determination of maximum depositional ages of Chinle strata using laser-ablation U–Pb detrital-zircon geochronology. These results will provide insights into the effects of climatic perturbations on salt tectonic systems and could improve predictions of geological hazards associated with existing salt structures in environments of rapid climate change.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Bora, Aryan Giuffrida, Francesca	Almor, Amit Nichols, Chandler	Investigating the Role of Negated Constructions in Scalar Implicature Judgment View Full Text Abstract Text When people speak, they often communicate more than the literal meaning of their words. For example, if someone says “some of the students passed,” listeners typically infer that “not all the students passed.” These inferences are known as scalar implicatures (Grice, 1975). They arise when a speaker chooses a weaker term from a scale, such as “some” instead of “all,” prompting listeners to consider why a stronger alternative was not used. Recent research has measured how often people make these inferences by asking questions such as “How strongly does X imply not Y?” (Gotzner et al., 2018). However, presenting the stronger alternative under explicit negation (e.g., “not brilliant”) may introduce a separate pragmatic process called negative strengthening. This occurs when negated adjectives are interpreted more strongly than their literal meaning would warrant. For instance, “not brilliant” is often understood as “rather unintelligent,” even though its logical interpretation still allows for someone to be fairly intelligent. Including negated adjectives may therefore influence scalar implicature endorsement ratings, making it unclear what participants are evaluating. To address this issue, we use an offline judgment task that measures implicature endorsement without including explicit negation in the critical prompts. Participants evaluate visual scenarios paired with linguistic context containing only the weaker adjective. We believe removing negated constructions reduces the risk of negative strengthening and allows for a more direct assessment of how often people perceive scalar implicatures. If endorsement patterns differ from those reported in negation-based paradigms, this would suggest that using negated stronger adjectives in prompts may distort measurements of scalar implicature rates. More broadly, this work highlights how experimental design choices can shape conclusions in language research and contributes to developing more reliable methods for studying pragmatic inference.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Rosas, Marco	Alberts, Halley	Lived Experiences of Adults with Diabetes in Rural Northern Belize: A Qualitative Study View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Approximately 13–15% of adults in Belize have diabetes. The burden is particularly pronounced in rural communities where structural barriers complicate daily self-management, including limited access to healthy foods, medications, and consistent medical care. Sarteneja is a remote coastal fishing village in northern Belize with a population of approximately 4,000 persons who face significant barriers to accessing consistent health care and chronic disease support. To inform ongoing development of a community diabetes support program in Sarteneja, we conducted in-depth interviews exploring lived experiences, beliefs, and barriers to self-management. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adults living with diabetes. Interviews explored daily management practices, access to care, food environments, medication access, health beliefs, and educational preferences. Interviews were conducted in English or Spanish, transcribed, and thematically analyzed using an inductive approach. Results: Participants described diabetes as severe and life-threatening, frequently comparing it to cancer and expressing fear of complications such as amputation, kidney failure, and death. Diet was viewed as central to disease causation and control; however, structural barriers limited healthy eating. Participants cited high produce costs, seasonal scarcity, limited local agriculture, and reliance on carbohydrate-heavy diets as some of their key barriers. Medication access often required long-distance travel, bus dependence, out-of-pocket payments, or cross-border purchasing. Participants also described limited access to understandable health information due to brief clinical visits, language barriers, literacy challenges, and complex medical terminology. Despite these challenges, strong family and community networks supported disease management. One-on-one or small-group education in Spanish, particularly practical guidance on diet, exercise, and complication prevention, was strongly preferred. Conclusions: Diabetes management in rural northern Belize is shaped by structural food insecurity, transportation barriers, cultural dietary norms, and gaps in accessible health education. Community-based CHW models tailored to local language and context may address critical gaps in chronic disease support	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Machimada, Kavya	Shustova, Natalia Smith, Danielle	Synthesis and Characterization of Photochromic Spirooxazine-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks View Full Text Abstract Text Photochromic metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) represent an emerging class of materials capable of combining structural stability with dynamic, light-responsive behavior. The incorporation of photochromic molecules into MOF scaffolds provides a promising pathway toward materials whose physical and chemical properties can be modulated using light as a noninvasive, external stimulus. These systems are particularly attractive for applications in heterogeneous catalysis, where precise regulation of active site accessibility and reactivity remains a significant challenge. In this work, we describe the design and synthesis of a photochromic molecule capable of undergoing reversible structural transformation upon irradiation. The chosen photochromic molecule, a spirooxazine derivative (CSO) was strategically designed to exhibit rapid photoisomerization between two distinct states while also possessing suitable functional groups for coordinative integration into a MOF. Following the successful synthesis and characterization of CSO, we then investigated methods for integrating the photochromic molecule into a prepared MOF scaffold, UiO-67, through post-synthetic modification. Careful optimization of reaction conditions allowed for the installation of the photochromic molecule while preserving the crystallinity, structural integrity, and porosity of the parent framework. The resulting hybrid material establishes a modular platform for constructing light-responsive porous solids in which molecular-level structural changes can be used to control reactivity. The successful synthesis and incorporation of the photochromic molecule provides a critical first step toward developing MOF-based systems capable of light-controlled heterogeneous catalysis which is planned to be evaluated in the future.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Zheng, Jia	McInnes, Campbell Chen, Max	Discovery of potent CDK8/CDK19 PROTAC degraders with superior anti-leukemia efficacy View Full Text Abstract Text Aggressive leukemias, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML), remain highly challenging diseases due to the lack of curative therapies. AML rapidly develops resistance to both conventional and targeted treatments, underscoring the urgent need for more effective therapeutic strategies. Recently, the transcription-regulating Mediator kinases CDK8 and CDK19 have emerged as promising targets, with CDK8/19 kinase inhibitors (CDK8/19i) now in clinical trials for leukemia. However, preliminary data from our laboratory demonstrate that leukemia cell lines exhibit heterogeneous and often incomplete responses to CDK8/19i, with many developing resistance after initial sensitivity. To test the hypothesis that direct depletion of CDK8/19 proteins may elicit more potent and durable anti-leukemia activity, we developed three series of PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) based on selective CDK8/19 inhibitors conjugated through diverse linkers to cereblon (CRBN)-recruiting ligands. The most potent degrader, SNX7886, induced efficient and simultaneous degradation of CDK8 and CDK19 across multiple cell types with a DC50 of 10 nM. When evaluated side-by-side with matched CDK8/19i, SNX7886 consistently produced superior and sustained growth inhibition without the adaptive resistance observed with CDK8/19 kinase inhibitors in multiple leukemia lines. Notably, in an aggressive refractory AML cell line NOMO1, prolonged treatment with CDK8/19-PROTACs resulted in complete growth arrest, with no surviving cells detectable over extended exposure. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses further revealed that CDK8/19-PROTACs engage both shared and distinct molecular pathways compared to CDK8/19i, indicating deeper disruption of transcriptional reprogramming circuits associated with AML survival and adaptation. These findings highlight targeted CDK8/19 degradation as a promising therapeutic strategy capable of overcoming key limitations of CDK8/19 kinase inhibitors in AML.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Weinhagen, Gemma Hurst, Madeline	Almor, Amit Salman, Nadra	Offline Norming of Negated Superlatives: Effects of Gender, Age, and Research Experience on Sarcasm and Criticality Judgments View Full Text Abstract Text Sarcasm is a form of non-literal language in which intended meaning diverges from literal content. The Defaultness Hypothesis (Giora et al., 2015) proposes that certain structures, like negated superlatives (e.g., “He isn’t the most reliable mechanic”), are automatically processed as sarcastic even without context. While online processing research supports this account (e.g., Filik et al., 2018), less is known about whether age, gender, or research experience shape responses in offline judgement tasks. We analyzed two pretests collected via Prolific. In the Criticism Pretest (N = 49; 31 male, 18 female; age range 20–73, M = 43.6), participants rated how critical each sentence felt. In the Interpretation Pretest (N = 48; 26 male, 22 female; age range 20–67, M = 43.0), participants rated whether each sentence sounded literal or sarcastic. Each participant read 24 isolated superlative sentences, either the affirmative or negative version of each item, and responded using 5-point Likert scales. Negative items were rated as significantly more sarcastic than affirmative items in the Interpretation Pretest, t(49) = −4.21, p < .001, d = 0.60 (M = 2.72 vs. 2.12), and as significantly more critical in the Criticism Pretest, t(48) = −14.72, p < .001, d = 2.10 (M = 3.38 vs. 1.51). Age and gender did not predict ratings in either task (all ps > .46). In the Criticism Pretest, participants with more prior Prolific completions, used as a proxy for research experience, gave lower criticality ratings to affirmative items, r(47) = −.31, p = .033. No other comparisons were significant. These findings support the Defaultness Hypothesis: negated superlatives prompt sarcastic interpretations regardless of age and gender. The research experience effect, limited to affirmative criticality ratings, may reflect a more conservative response criterion among experienced participants and warrants attention as a potential confound in crowdsourced norming studies.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lachab, Sofiane	Vitzilaios, Nikolaos	Designing a Water Sampling Apparatus for UAS-based Sampling View Full Text Abstract Text Collecting samples from bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, estuaries, and oceans, is an invaluable tool for learning more about that ecosystem. However, the time and labor involved in manual sampling methods make the process expensive and inefficient. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have proven to be an effective approach towards many inspection and retrieval missions. They can unlock new avenues and paths that humans cannot otherwise traverse, as well as removing human involvement from what could be potentially dangerous scenarios. Thus, UAVs have shown strong promise as an improved technique for water sampling. Our current iteration of the water sampling drone project splits the sensing and sampling tasks between two UAVs, both of which are Aurelia X6 Pro v2 hexacopters. The sampling drone’s task is to autonomously fly to designated sampling locations and collect bottles of water. A custom sampling apparatus was designed around an 8-port electric rotary valve. This component significantly streamlines the system, allowing for the entire apparatus to be driven by one diaphragm pump. The pump’s inlet is fitted with two meters of silicone tubing to reach down into the water for sampling. Silicone tubing connects the pump’s outlet to the valve’s inlet, from which the flow is redirected into the bottles. The system can house up to seven, 250 mL sampling containers. Designing the system around a singular electric rotary valve has drastically simplified the sampling apparatus from previous UAS-based sampling systems. As a result, the system is more efficient and robust than prior works. Future goals for this project include developing an autonomous flight controller to direct the drone towards completing missions free of human piloting.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Jacob, Naomi	Mousseau, Timothy	Predator Species of Chernobyl View Full Text Abstract Text Camera traps were set up across the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ) to collect data on the spatial behavior of common predator species (gray wolf, red fox, Eurasian lynx, raccoon dog, and European badger. We were interested to see how predator territory size effects a species' relationship with radiation level. We hypothesized that species with smaller territory sizes may demonstrate greater avoidance of high radiation areas due to smaller daily displacements. Preliminary data analysis found a negative relationship between Cs-137 radionuclide concentration on Eurasian lynx occupancy probability and a positive relationship for gray wolf occupancy probability. However, this relationship only held true for 50% of the posterior median distribution for gray wolves, in comparison to 90% of the posterior median distribution for Eurasian lynxes. Less than 50% of the posterior median distribution showed a positive or negative relationship to Cs-137 radionuclide concentration for raccoon dog, European badger, or red fox occupancy probability. Due to these findings, our hypothesis on the relationship between the sensitivity of a species to radiation and the species’ average territory size must be rejected. The Eurasian lynx, with the largest territory size of all species included, had a significantly negative relationship with radiation level.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Patel, Bhumika Abdalla, Jafar	Strohmier, Hala	Using Deep Learning to Detect Pixel-Level Tampering in X-Ray Images View Full Text Abstract Text Recent advances in algorithmic photo-editing combined with hospitals' vulnerability to cyberattacks raises concerns about the tampering of medical images. This study proposes a cloud-based deep learning framework for multi-class tampering detection in grayscale X-ray images using residual convolutional neural networks. Five image categories were assessed: clean, blur, copy-move, noise, and splice manipulations. Two architectures, ResNet18 and ResNet50, were compared. Class imbalance was mitigated by weighted cross entropy loss and weighted sampling. The optimized Reset50 model achieved test accuracy of 74.22 and macro-F1 of 0.6195 across five classes. The results show that residual networks are able to effectively detect structured tampering artifacts from image data without having to rely on metadata. However, subtle degradations such as blur are still hard to detect. The framework sets out a scalable architecture on which AI-based medical image integrity verification can be built.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Quiroz, Beatrice	Jones, Devan	Possible Remedies for STEM Skill Obsolescence View Full Text Abstract Text Skill obsolescence is a global concern that significantly impacts the economy. Research has shown that all occupations suffer from this phenomenon, although it is particularly pronounced in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) occupations. Specifically, what drives this high skill turnover rate across these occupations is the evolving qualities of software requirements. Potential remedies—like continuing education and reskilling training—have been proposed, though it is unclear what this training looks like and if it is feasible given the cost. Thus, this paper argues the value of informal STEM education (ISE) for STEM workers experiencing skill obsolescence through the lens of the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model. Under this lens, skill obsolescence is seen as a demand, whereas ISE is seen as a resource to mitigate this demand. ISE offers a unique form of continuing education due to its dynamic and flexible nature, and has been associated with various benefits, including increased STEM identity, 21st-century skills, and long-term STEM interest. Although there is a gap in research on how ISE is implemented across an adult population, clear advantages have been seen in how ISE experiences shape career trajectories and retention, making a viable claim for its use in the STEM workforce.	Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Reed, Ainsley	Meekins, Benjamin Likit-anurak, Kris Shimpalee, Sirivatch	Acid Loss and Electrochemical Durability in PBI Membranes Under Continuous Operation at High Current Density View Full Text Abstract Text Continuous high-current density operation was conducted to evaluate phosphoric acid loss and electrochemical durability of a Celtec-Z polybenzimidazole (PBI) membrane in a high-temperature hydrogen fuel cell. The membrane was operated at a constant current density of 1 A/cm² with daily performance monitoring performed throughout extended operation. At regular intervals, cell potential (V) and high-frequency resistance (HFR, mΩ) were recorded, and effluent water volumes from both anode and cathode outlets were collected and measured to assess stability, conductivity behavior, and acid transport characteristics. Phosphoric acid concentration in collected water samples was analyzed to quantify membrane acid loss during continuous operation. Electrochemical data demonstrated a slight increase in cell voltage over time, with no significant performance degradation observed under the sustained load. HFR measurements showed a gradual decrease throughout operation, suggesting improved ohmic behavior and stable membrane conductivity under continuous high-current conditions. These combined electrochemical and analytical measurements provide insight into acid retention behavior and membrane durability under prolonged high-current operation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Swenson, Lillian	Mott, David Wilber, Madison Frost, Chadwick Jasnow, Aaron Warren, James	DREADD-mediated Disinhibition of the Basolateral Amygdala Prevents Fear Learning in Mice View Full Text Abstract Text The basolateral amygdala (BLA) is an important subcortical structure involved in emotional processing and learning. Inhibitory interneurons (INs) play a key role in regulating BLA activity, and research investigating their role in emotional memory is critical for understanding how the BLA processes emotionally salient events and coordinates appropriate responses. We hypothesized that suppressing these INs would disrupt fear learning in mice. To test this, we selectively expressed an inhibitory designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADD) in BLA inhibitory INs using an adeno-associated virus (AAV). This AAV was injected bilaterally into the BLA four weeks before behavioral testing. Experimental mice received a virus encoding the inhibitory DREADD and a fluorescent protein, while littermate controls received a virus expressing only the fluorescent protein. All mice received an intraperitoneal injection of J60, a DREADD agonist, before fear acquisition in a Pavlovian cued fear paradigm. Fear recall was tested 48 hours after training, ensuring that J60 had cleared. Brains were then harvested and processed to assess the location and specificity of viral expression. Control mice displayed robust tone-associated freezing during recall, indicating successful fear memory formation. In contrast, DREADD-expressing mice showed significantly less freezing during recall, suggesting impairment in memory formation. Interestingly, there was no difference in freezing between control and experimental animals during training. These data suggest that BLA inhibitory INs are essential for fear memory formation but do not mediate freezing during aversive memory acquisition. Histological analysis confirmed that viral expression was restricted to inhibitory INs. Additionally, some mice in this study received a Cre-dependent virus targeting CCK INs; analysis of this tissue confirmed that expression of the virus can be further restricted to specific IN subtypes. Future studies will apply this Cre-dependent strategy to identify more specifically which BLA inhibitory INs are required for fear learning and recall.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Gandham, Shriya	Colebank, Mitchel	Computational Modeling of Cerebrovascular Biomechanics in Small Vessel Disease View Full Text Abstract Text Cerebrovascular disease is a leading cause of stroke and cognitive decline, and significantly impacts populations in the U.S. “Stroke Belt”, including South Caroline. Cerebral Small Vessel Disease (CSVD) damages the brain’s small arteries, arterioles, and capillaries, leading to white matter damage and lacunar infarcts. Despite its prevalence, the hemodynamic mechanisms that drive CSVD progression are not fully understood. This is because it is difficult to visualize small cerebral vessels in-vivo. This study uses MATLAB-based computational modeling to simulate cerebral blood flow dynamics and examine how key biomechanical parameters contribute to small vessel disease progression. Cerebral blood flow was simulated using a partial differential equation (PDE) model describing pulsatile fluid dynamics primarily in the axial direction in a cerebral vascular network. Steady-state and pulsatile flow simulations coded in MATLAB were used to generate hemodynamic data across multiple vascular branches. Parameters including large artery and arteriolar stiffness, vascular resistance, vessel branching geometry, and flow magnitude out of the left ventricle are systematically changed to assess their effects on wall shear stress, oscillatory shear index, pulse pressure, and vessel strain which are all markers of CSVD. Simulated hemodynamic values correlate with our physiological understanding of arterial stiffening and microvascular remodeling in CSVD. The simulations help us understand how changes in wall shear stress and pulse pressure may contribute to white matter damage. These findings will advance understanding of the biomechanical underpinnings of small vessel disease and support the development of predictive, patient-specific models. keywords: cerebral small disease, hemodynamics, partial differential equation, matlab	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Long, Lauren	Klusek, Jessica Christensen, Thomas Jenner, Lauren	“The child has to drive all of the decisions you make” - How Mothers of People with Fragile X Syndrome Navigate Parenting in Low Resource Areas View Full Text Abstract Text Between 55 and 200 CGG repeats on the Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene is known as the FMR1 premutation (FXpm). FXpm women can pass on a full FMR1 mutation of over 200 CGG repeats to their children, resulting in fragile X syndrome (FXS), the leading inherited cause of intellectual disability. Mothers are frequently the primary caregivers for their sons or daughters with FXS throughout their life, including adulthood. Additionally, living in neighborhoods with fewer resources can create barriers that influence caregiving demands and complicate future planning. This study explores how FXpm mothers residing in low socioeconomic neighborhoods navigate caring and planning for their adolescent and adult sons or daughters with FXS. Interviews were analyzed for seven FXpm mothers aged 44-66 years (M=60 years) who had children with FXS (n=12; aged 16-38 years; M=30 years) and lived in a neighborhood with an Area Deprivation Index in the lowest quartile. The interviews focused on the current care of their son or daughter, future planning, and challenges with caregiving. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to identify personal and group experiential themes. Five group experiential themes were identified, which are 1) tension between supporting independence and recognizing limitations, 2) balancing conflicting identities as a mother, caregiver, advocate, and carrier, 3) facilitating community inclusion despite barriers to belonging, 4) reliance on institutional services despite ongoing frustrations, and 5) preparation of child’s long-term care despite uncertainty and anxiety. These themes give insight into how FXpm mothers who live in low resource neighborhoods manage current and future caregiving. The findings reveal potential disparities that highlight the need for targeted support for mothers in resource-limited areas. Future longitudinal research is necessary to study how caregiving and long-term plans evolve as mothers and children age, in order to develop interventions that address social and economic barriers.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Nallu, Sai Varun	Grillo, Claudia Withers, Hayden Maciejewska, Natalia Woodruff, Jennifer Reagan, Lawrence	Effect of Ginseng on Food Intake, Body Weight, and Neuroinflammation View Full Text Abstract Text Over the past 20 years, the prevalence of obesity has risen dramatically, contributing to a parallel increase in metabolic comorbidities, including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and major depressive disorder. Nearly 43% of individuals with depression are obese and adults with depression are more likely to be obese than adults without depression. However, the biological mechanisms linking obesity to depression remain unclear. Recent evidence implicates chronic neuroinflammation as the central connection. Obesity activates microglia, the central immune cells, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and subsequent neuronal dysfunction in brain regions critical for mood regulation and energy homeostasis. This project investigates whether Ginseng, a natural herb known for its anti-inflammatory properties, can attenuate obesity-induced neuroinflammation and thereby improve metabolic and neurological outcomes. Using a diet-induced obesity model, male rats were maintained on either a high-fat diet (45% kcal fat) or a control diet (10% kcal fat) for 12 weeks to establish an obese phenotype. Following this period, animals were assigned to four treatment groups: control diet with vehicle (Con-Veh), control diet with Ginseng (Con-G), high-fat diet with vehicle (HFD-Veh), and high-fat diet with Ginseng (HFD-G). After treatment, brains were collected and processed for immunohistochemical analysis. Microglial activation was assessed in the arcuate of the hypothalamus using ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba1) staining. Microglial morphology was analyzed with Neurolucida software. Under physiological conditions, microglia exhibit small cell bodies and highly branched processes. In contrast, neuroinflammatory states induce an amoeboid morphology with enlarged somas and retracted processes. We hypothesize that obesity will increase microglial activation and morphological simplification, whereas Ginseng treatment will promote a shift toward an anti-inflammatory phenotype. We anticipate that Ginseng-treated obese rats will exhibit reduced microglial activation, supporting the hypothesis that targeting neuroinflammation may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for obesity-associated depression.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Greer, Abagail	O'Reilly, Christian	Analyzing the Relationship Between the Female Protective Effect and the Excitatory-Inhibitory Ratio View Full Text Abstract Text Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting 1 in 31 children, with a 4:1 male to female ratio in diagnoses. The Female Protective Effect Theory postulates that women require a larger quantity of mutations or more severe mutations to meet diagnostic criteria for ASD, resulting in fewer cases of ASD in women. This theory is supported by studies indicating that siblings of females with autism have more traits associated with autism than siblings of males with autism [1]. This research project examines whether there is a female protective effect present around mutations that affect the excitatory-inhibitory (E/I) ratio, an equilibrium thought to be disrupted in people with ASD. To address this question, access to the SPARK integrated WES v3 dataset was obtained. Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in 7 genes (GRIN2B, SHANK2, DLG4, NRXN1, GRIA2, GABRB2, and SLC6A1) associated with the E/I ratio were analyzed. Tools used included the VCFPy, pandas, and statsmodels packages in Python. Analyses are ongoing and include the use of a mixed effect logistic regression model based on the following equation: asd ~ (mutation1 + mutation2 + … +)*sex. For each mutation, participants have been coded as 0, 1, or 2, with 0 corresponding to the 0/0 genotype (no mutation), 1 to the 1/0 or 0/1 genotype (mutation on one allele), and 2 corresponding to the 1/1 genotype (mutations on both alleles). Nonzero interaction terms found in this analysis would indicate that sex modulates the effect of mutation on autism diagnosis, demonstrating a female protective effect with respect to selected genes. [1] E.B. Robinson, P. Lichtenstein, H. Anckarsäter, F. Happé, & A. Ronald, Examining and interpreting the female protective effect against autistic behavior, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 110 (13) 5258-5262, https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1211070110 (2013).	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Johnson, Colin	Vento, Peter Watson, Jacob	Compating Relapse Through the Rostromedial Tegmental Nucleus to Ventral Tegmental Area Pathway View Full Text Abstract Text Cocaine Use Disorder is characterized by intense and persistent cocaine craving and difficulty abstaining from drug use, marked by recurring relapse triggered by exposure to drug-associated stimuli. Recent evidence suggests inhibitory inputs to ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine (DA) neurons may serve as a critical mediator in suppressing cocaine seeking, yet the relative contribution of DA inhibitory circuits remains unclear. The rostromedial tegmental nucleus (RMTg) is a midbrain region that provides dense inhibitory projections to VTA DA, and presents as a likely target for mediating cocaine seeking. The present study, therefore, tests whether stimulation of the RMTg-VTA circuit during cocaine self-administration (SA) can reduce behavioral and neurobiological adaptations to cocaine use. Specifically, rats were trained to self-administer intravenous cocaine for 10 days followed by 4 additional SA sessions where lever pressing for cocaine was accompanied by contingent RMTg-VTA activation. Rats then underwent a period of extinction training where cocaine and associated cues were removed to mimic a period of abstinence. Rats then received a cue-induced reinstatement test where lever pressing elicited delivery of cocaine-associated cues (but no cocaine), which has been shown to trigger robust relapse-like behavior in rodents. Immediately after cued reinstatement testing, brain tissue was extracted and processed immunohistochemically for the transcription factor c-Fos, an early marker of neuronal activation, combined with cell-type-specific antibody labeling. Results showed control rats exhibited robust reinstatement of cocaine seeking during the relapse test, while rats that previously received RMTg-VTA stimulation during earlier SA training showed significant attenuation of cocaine seeking, indicative of reduced motivation for cocaine. Regional and cell-type-specific patterns of cFos labelling suggest RMTg–VTA stimulation alters mesocorticolimbic circuit activity to induce enduring shifts in drug-motivated behavior. These findings highlight the RMTg as a region of interest for further investigation in relapse vulnerability and compulsive drug seeking.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Wilkie, Lylie	Hoque, Shamia	Coupled PIV–PTV Analysis for kinetic characterization of saliva droplet transport over built surfaces with distinct boundary-layer characteristics. View Full Text Abstract Text Recent resurgences of measles in the United States, following decades of low incidence after elimination, underscore the need to better understand environmental transmission risks. Measles is primarily transmitted via aerosols or virus-laden saliva droplets. To reduce infection risk in indoor environments, it is essential to understand the kinetics of saliva droplets released during respiratory exhalation. This study aims to determine how droplet fluid composition and surface type jointly influence droplet transport and persistence within the near-wall region. The effects of velocity gradients and coherent flow structures on droplet behavior will be quantified. Although previous studies have examined droplet evaporation, virus–surface interactions, and surface persistence independently, the mechanistic coupling among these processes remains unclear. Particle image velocimetry (PIV) will be used to characterize boundary layer development and near-wall coherent structures under varying surface roughness, moisture conditions, and Reynolds numbers. Particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) will quantify droplet transport following release in a 1 m × 1 m × 2 m scaled test chamber equipped with a ProX 4M CCD camera (2048 × 2048 pixels) and a double-pulsed Nd:YAG laser generating a 532 nm light sheet. Two-dimensional PIV will analyze boundary layer development, while three-dimensional stereoscopic PIV will visualize droplet spreading and near-surface transport. Three surfaces will be examined: carpet (porous), Perspex, and glass (non-porous). Release velocity and droplet quantity will be systematically varied. TSI particle counters will measure particle size distributions and concentrations. Results will provide mechanistic insight into droplet–surface–flow interactions in indoor environments, forming a foundation for predictive models and infection risk mitigation strategies in built spaces.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Cardenas, Isabella	Mills, Mary	The Trophic Stage of Egg Development in Livestock Pests View Full Text Abstract Text Culicoides sonorensis and Stomoxys calcitrans are blood-feeding insects that significantly impact the livestock industry. C. sonorensis transmits viral pathogens, while S. calcitrans causes persistent biting stress and infestations, with both contributing to substantial economic losses. Since blood feeding is required for egg production, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying egg development is essential for developing targeted control strategies. Although egg development has been extensively characterized in the mosquito, little is known about this process in these livestock pests. In mosquitoes, the trophic stage of egg development is marked by peak expression of yolk protein precursor (YPP) genes and maximal follicular growth, representing a critical phase required for reproductive progression. Here, we characterized the trophic stage of egg development in C. sonorensis and S. calcitrans. Our results indicate that C. sonorensis follows a developmental time course similar to mosquitoes, with YPP gene expression peaking between 21–24 hours post-blood meal (hpbm). In contrast, S. calcitrans requires multiple blood meals to complete egg development. We found that blood meal volume significantly influences the timing of yolk protein (YP) gene expression. When flies were fed blood ad libitum, peak YP expression occurred between blood meals three and four (BM3–4). However, under limited blood volume, peak expression shifted later, between blood BM4–5. These findings demonstrate that reproductive progression in stable flies is nutritionally dependent and more variable than in midges or mosquitoes. Overall, we successfully identified the trophic stages of egg development in two important livestock pests. These results highlight species-specific differences in reproductive physiology and provide foundational knowledge to support the development of more precise and effective pest management strategies.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Murphy, Madyson Srikumar, Supraja	Adlof, Suzanne Bryant, Taylor Mitchell, Alexis Duff, Dawna	Charting the Future: Longitudinal Insights into Reading Comprehension in Children with Developmental Language Disorder​ View Full Text Abstract Text The Simple View of Reading (SVR) proposes that reading comprehension is the product of word recognition and language comprehension; both are necessary for reading comprehension. Word recognition is supported by foundational skills including phonological awareness and knowledge of letters and letter-sound correspondences. Language comprehension includes knowledge of vocabulary, syntax, and discourse. Developmental language disorder (DLD) impacts the ability to learn, understand, and use language, increasing risk for reading comprehension difficulties; however, it is largely under-identified. The current longitudinal study examined the fourth-grade literacy skills of children who had been classified by our research team as having DLD in second grade. Only 15% of the sample had been diagnosed with DLD prior to enrollment in the study. Approximately half of the sample exhibited average word reading skills in second grade, and most of these scored within normal limits on tests of single-word- and nonword-reading accuracy in fourth grade. However, 95% of the sample exhibited significant difficulties with text reading in fourth grade, as reflected by assessments of their oral reading accuracy, fluency, and comprehension. We will discuss the challenges presented by the “hidden” nature of DLD and the importance of early identification and proactive treatment of oral language difficulties.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Mauya, Zannatul	Enos, Reilly	Estrogen Therapy: How Dose shapes physiological responses View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction: 17β-Estradiol (E2) is the primary circulating estrogen in premenopausal females and plays a central role in regulating glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and systemic homeostasis. Following menopause, declining E2 levels are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cognitive decline, osteoporosis, and hormone-sensitive cancers. Although Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) is commonly prescribed, optimal dosing strategies remain unclear due to limited understanding of physiological tissue-specific E2 concentrations and dose–response relationships. Methods: This study aimed to define physiological E2 concentrations across tissues and estrous cycle stages to inform precision-based dosing strategies. We utilized high-resolution Orbitrap Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) with 1-methylimidazole-2-sulfonyl (MIS) derivatization to accurately quantify low-abundance E2 levels, overcoming sensitivity limitations associated with ELISA and radioimmunoassay’s. Validation was conducted using two murine models of estrogen deficiency: the adult-onset ovariectomized (OVX) model, which mimics menopause with residual adrenal-derived estrogen, and the aromatase knockout (AROM KO) model, representing complete congenital estrogen deficiency where we also conducted metabolic testing to understand their metabolic physiology and finally sacrificed those animals to collect samples. Results: Preliminary findings demonstrate a direct correlation between uterine weight and circulating E2 levels across the estrous cycle. Adrenal glands were identified as a secondary source of E2 in intact mice and the primary residual source in OVX mice. Additionally, oral E2 administration improved metabolic function and glucose tolerance in OVX mice, as assessed by deuterated oral and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests. Conclusions: These findings establish physiological tissue-specific E2 concentrations as a critical framework for understanding estrogen-dependent metabolic regulation. Improved quantification of E2 enhances the ability to design optimized hormone replacement strategies that maximize metabolic benefits while minimizing tissue-specific risks.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
King, Cody	Braumuller, Kyndall Higgins, Naomi Zellars, Kia Nolan, Melissa Bowes, Devin	Molecular Detection of Malathion and Pyrethroid Resistance in Culex restuans using RT-qPCR Methods View Full Text Abstract Text This study aims to establish whether insecticide resistance to two common classes of insecticides, organophosphates and pyrethroids, are present in Culex restuans mosquito populations within the Richland and Lexington counties in South Carolina. Mosquitoes within the Culex genus, such as Culex restuans, are primary vectors for pathogens endemic to the Southeastern Unites States such as West Nile virus (WNV) and St. Louis encephalitis virus. Insecticide application is currently a major tool for vector control. These insecticides are commonly used in agricultural pest control, urban pest control, and public health programs. However, the widespread use of pyrethroids and organophosphates has exerted significant pressure, leading to the development of insecticide resistance (IR) in mosquito populations. South Carolina currently lacks comprehensive research on the surveillance of insecticide resistance. This research evaluates genotypic resistance in mosquitoes by studying the most common genetic mutations that are correlated to IR. The L1014F/L1014S knockdown resistance (kdr) mutations associated with pyrethroid resistance and overexpression of the EST-3 gene commonly linked to malathion (the most commonly used organophosphate in mosquito control applications) resistance were the main targets for surveillance. Mosquitoes were collected using CDC gravid traps in Richland and Lexington counties from July-October, 2025. Mosquitoes were then morphologically identified to species. Genomic DNA was extracted and L1014F and L1014S alleles were then detected using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). EST-3 expression levels were quantized using PCR as well and normalized against housekeeping genes. This research could enhance vector management strategies by using molecular tools for early resistance surveillance, which could be used to inform public health policy and mosquito control efficacy.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Rodriguez, Lucero	Mills, Mary	A closer look into egg development within Culicoides sonorensis midges View Full Text Abstract Text Culicoides sonorensis are blood-feeding midges capable of transmitting arboviruses such as Bluetongue virus and Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus to susceptible ruminants. Transmission and subsequent infection result in significant economic losses to the livestock industry due to increased mortality, reduced production yields, and trade restrictions. Since blood feeding is linked to pathogen transmission and egg development, understanding the reproductive physiology of C. sonorensis is critical for the development of targeted vector control strategies. While egg development has been well-characterized in mosquitoes, comparatively little is known in biting midges. In mosquitoes, ovarian follicles progress through five developmental stages defined by changes in follicle and oocyte area, lipid accumulation, and length:width ratios, with egg maturation completed by 48 hours post-blood meal (hpbm). Recent work from our lab demonstrated that C. sonorensis follows a similar overall time course, also completing egg development by 48 hpbm and exhibiting elongated follicles. The objective of this study was to determine the timing of follicle elongation during midge egg development. We performed histological analyses on ovaries dissected at multiple time points between 24 and 48 hpbm to characterize morphological changes associated with late-stage development. Our results show that follicle elongation occurs as early as 44 hpbm, indicating that this transition takes place quickly during the final hours of egg development. These findings demonstrate that follicle elongation is a tightly regulated, late-stage event. Establishing this time course advances our understanding of reproductive biology in an important arbovirus vector and may inform future efforts to disrupt egg development as a means of reducing midge populations and disease transmission.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Smith, Madelyn	Mills, Mary	Regulation of egg development in the livestock View Full Text Abstract Text The biting midge Culicoides sonorensis is an economically significant vector of arboviruses impacting livestock. Since blood feeding is required for both pathogen transmission and egg development, understanding the regulatory mechanisms underlying egg development in C. sonorensis is essential for identifying novel control strategies. Although little is known about egg development in biting midges, the mosquito serves as a well-established model for blood meal–induced egg development. In mosquitoes, ingestion of a blood meal stimulates the release of insulin-like peptides (ILPs) from the brain. These peptides function in concert with a hormonal cascade to promote the production of yolk protein precursors (YPPs), which peak in expression at 24 hours post-blood meal (hpbm) and are required for completion of egg development by 48 hpbm. Recent work from our laboratory demonstrates that egg development in C. sonorensis follows a similar overall time course, with completion by 48 hpbm. The goal of this study was to determine whether ILPs regulate egg development in C. sonorensis. We first assessed ILP gene expression immediately following blood feeding. However, genes expression analysis alone did not clearly define their role. To directly evaluate the importance of brain-derived molecules, we performed decapitation assays and subsequently conducted gene expression and histological analyses of ovarian development. Our results demonstrate that brain-released molecules are required for completion of egg development in C. sonorensis, consistent with mechanisms described in mosquitoes. These findings provide evidence that brain-derived molecules play a critical role in midge egg development and suggest conserved regulatory pathways may regulate blood meal–induced reproduction in these vector species.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Donovan, Britney	Hudac, Caitlin Nelson, Cailee Nelson, Kendall	The Interaction of Age and Social Support on the N170 View Full Text Abstract Text The human face occupies a central role in social life, serving as the primary gateway to interpersonal connection. Social interactions necessitate automatic perception and evaluation of faces, and the abilities to identify and learn faces are highly specialized skills that continue to develop throughout adolescence. The acquisition of facial identification skills is especially important during this developmental period in which forming and maintaining social relationships is imperative. Recent research suggests that feeling socially supported positively impacts the perception of familiar faces. Moreover, strong, supportive relationships during adolescence contribute significantly to overall well-being. This study aimed to investigate how perceived levels of social support relate to adolescents’ neural responses to familiar and unfamiliar faces. A total of 51 adolescents (ages 11–17) completed the Social Provisions Scale as a measure of social support before being presented with personalized facial images of a close friend, a celebrity, a stranger, and an AI-generated “deepfake” meant to mimic the close friend while applying electroencephalographic (EEG) recording. For N170 amplitude, there was a significant three-way interaction among condition, age, and social support. Younger adolescents with less social support showed enhanced [CH1.1]N170 responses to unfamiliar faces. This effect diminished with age and reversed by late adolescence[CH2.1]. For N170 latency, a significant interaction between face condition and age indicated developmental changes in face-processing speed across conditions. Together, these findings suggest that perceived social support influences the neural processing of faces across adolescence. Social experiences may therefore play an important role in tuning early face-sensitive neural mechanisms during this critical developmental period.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Predmore, Amelia Pinter, Luke	Parker, Mickey	Assessing Herpetofaunal Diversity in an Urban Habitat Fragment in Columbia, SC View Full Text Abstract Text Because urbanization dramatically reduces and fragments habitats, it is critically important to examine the role habitat fragments play in harboring biodiversity within urban areas. Located in Columbia, South Carolina, the W. Gordon Belser Arboretum is an approximately 3-ha plot of land owned by the University of South Carolina (USC) that sits approximately 5.6 km from campus. The arboretum is surrounded by a suburban matrix and contains 10 plant communities, including upland forest and a bald cypress swamp. The mission of the Belser Arboretum is to serve as an outdoor laboratory for USC students, function as a conservation outreach center for the community, and maintain a wildlife preserve within metropolitan Columbia. An undergraduate-led project to quantify herpetofaunal diversity at the arboretum using coverboards and visual encounter surveys has been on-going since April 2024. To date, we have documented five lizard species, two snake species, one turtle species, two anurans, and three caudates at the site. To examine how the Belser Arboretum is preserving herpetofaunal diversity within metropolitan Columbia, we compared the species diversity of the Belser Arboretum with that of the greater region of Lexington and Richland Counties in South Carolina, using data from iNaturalist. Our analyses focused on lizards and amphibians found in the region as they are the most commonly found taxa at the Belser Arboretum. We also discuss how our project is contributing to the education and outreach goals of the arboretum.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Taylor, Sarah	Wood, Susan Hollis, Fiona Philbeck, Timothy Thomas, Lillian Smiley, Cora Spinale, Francis	Gestational witness stress results in long term alterations in cardiovascular health through persistent vagal withdrawal. View Full Text Abstract Text Maternal morbidity is strongly associated with both postpartum depression (PPD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD), potentially caused by stressors during pregnancy, however, mechanistic links remain unknown. This preclinical study examined the effects of gestational psychosocial stress on cardiovascular health in rats. Time-mated pregnant and virgin female Wistar rats were assigned to control or five days of witness stress (WS, 15 mins/day), a modified social defeat paradigm, on gestational days 8-12. All rats were implanted with cardiovascular transmitters to investigate autonomic function by analyzing the change in heart rate variability (RMSSD), a marker of vagal tone throughout the peripartum period. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography on postpartum days 14 and 22. We hypothesized that WS would negatively alter autonomic function, leading to cardiac strain, with exaggerated effects in peripartum periods. We previously identified that WS induced behavioral changes predominately in postpartum females, suggesting dysfunctional maternal care and impaired habituation to stress. This study extended these findings by identifying the associated cardiovascular changes. Blood pressure (mmHg change from baseline, virgin: Con 1.3± 2.56, WS 9.4±1.8; pregnant: PCon 12.4± 4.7, PWS 17.5±1.6; p<0.05) and heart rate reactivity (bpm change, virgin: Con 60±8, WS 75±14; pregnant: PCon 74±9, PWS 111±14, p<0.05) during WS was exacerbated in pregnant females compared with pregnant controls and virgin rats (p<0.05). WS also increased left atrial area (p=0.01; WS 18.5% increase vs Con, and PWS 30.2% increase vs PCon), a marker of diastolic dysfunction. Strikingly, in virgin females, under resting conditions, previously stressed rats showed a marked decrease in the percent change of RMSSD compared to controls, which showed an adaptive increase (CON: 7.25%±2.6 vs. WS: -9.35%±2.6; p=0.0007). Analysis is underway to understand if vagal withdrawal is exacerbated in postpartum WS rats. These findings point towards gestation as a period of heightened stress sensitivity that may increase PPD-CVD risk.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Green, Luci	Tang, Chuanbing Mathwig, Alexandra Zhao, Hai	Characterizing sustainable copolymers of α-methylstyrene and ethyl vinyl ether View Full Text Abstract Text Copolymers derived from simple organic monomers offer a promising and sustainable alternative to commodity plastics. Their inherent degradability enables optimization of recycling and reuse within a closed-loop economy. Their performance can be evaluated through measurements of molecular weight and thermal properties. α-Methylstyrene (AMS) is a commercially available monomer with a low ceiling temperature (~61 °C), which makes it a suitable candidate for designing recyclable materials. In this work, homopolymers and copolymers of AMS and ethyl vinyl ether (EVE) were synthesized at varying molar ratios using controlled cationic polymerization. The resulting polymers were characterized using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Several depolymerization methods were carried out with different Lewis acids, and the resulting degradation products were analyzed using NMR spectroscopy and GPC. The results demonstrate that AMS–EVE copolymers exhibit a relatively low glass transition temperature (Tg) while maintaining high degradability.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Patel, Shreena Cohn, Jake	Smith, Deanna	Can Missense Mutations in LIS1 Cause Autism? View Full Text Abstract Text The PAFAH1B1 gene encodes LIS1, a regulator of microtubule (MT) motor protein, dynein, which is vital for cell division, migration, and intracellular transport. LIS1 enhances dynein activity by stabilizing its open conformation, promoting interactions with dynactin and cargo adapters, and increasing the number of motors attached to a cargo, resulting in longer and faster runs overall. Mutations in PAFAH1B1 cause lissencephaly, a severe neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by reduced life expectancy and motor and cognitive disabilities. There have been no other neurological disorders linked with LIS1 mutations; however, a patient with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at the Greenwood Genetics Center was found to have a K351R missense mutation in LIS1, with no changes in 50 other ASD-linked genes. This patient did not have lissencephaly, suggesting the possibility that altered LIS1 function could contribute to ASD. Most, if not all, LIS1 functions are related to its ability to regulate dynein, so our current research aims to determine the effects of the K351R mutation on the physical and functional interaction between LIS1 and dynein. We used AQ5 mutagenesis to generate the K351R mutation in WT GFP-tagged LIS1 in the pEFGP-C1 plasmid. COS7 cells were transfected with these constructs, and K351R-LIS1 and WT-LIS1 were observed by GFP fluorescence. The GFP-plasmid alone was used as a control for effects of GFP expression. As reported previously, expression of WT-LIS1 results in an accumulation of dynein at centrosomes due to increased dynein movement along MTs. Unexpectedly, expression of K351R-LIS1 was more effective than WT-LIS1 at inducing centrosome accumulation suggesting hyperactivation of dynein. We will next determine if K351R-LIS1 binds more efficiently to dynein and whether it impacts known dynein functions in neurons and glia. We successfully expressed constructs in cultured mouse astrocytes and will soon express in cultured cortical neurons.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Twining, Callum	Myrick, Michael	Fluorescence Polarization of Filtered Natural Water Samples from South Carolina View Full Text Abstract Text Fluorescence Dissolved Organic Matter (FDOM) has long been used as an indicator of ecosystem health, and complete knowledge of the fluorescence profile of FDOM is of high interest across multiple fields. Fluorescence anisotropy may occur when a species is excited with polarized light, exhibits intrinsically polarized emission, and cannot rotationally randomize within one fluorescence lifetime. FDOM is thought to be composed of numerous small chemical species that contribute to a broad and featureless fluorescence profile which does not exhibit any fluorescence polarization, as the constituents rotationally depolarize. We report fluorescence emission, excitation, and anisotropy measurements in the long-wave ultraviolet and visible light regions and show featureless, but nonzero, fluorescence anisotropy, representing an unknown constituent (or constituents) of FDOM that are not yet reported in scientific literature. Ongoing research includes attempting to calculate the fluorescence lifetime of the unknown, polarizing constituent for identification purposes.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Murphy, Jacqueline	Kathrein, Katie Marchione, Alissa	Combined Effects of Curaxin and Rapamycin on ING4-Deficient Colorectal Cancer View Full Text Abstract Text Cancer remains well-studied in the world of disease research due to its rapid growth, complicated nature, and difficulty in treating. Many of these cancers exhibit stem cell characteristics that enable cell proliferation beyond normal limits. Loss of the tumor suppressor inhibitor of growth 4 (ING4), a chromatin-associated regulator within the HBO1 histone acetyltransferase complex, is observed in multiple malignancies and is associated with tumor progression and therapeutic resistance. RNA sequencing of ING4-deficient primary tumors and cancer cell lines reveals enrichment of pathways associated with metabolic activity and cellular proliferation, including oxidative phosphorylation, ribosomal biogenesis, mTOR, and MYC signaling. Preliminary studies using ING4 knockdown zebrafish models further demonstrated that treatment with small-molecule NF-κB inhibitors restored hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell specification, supporting a conserved role for ING4 in transcriptional regulation. Building on these findings, we evaluated targeted inhibition strategies in ING4-deficient colorectal cancer cell line (HCT116) using Curaxin (NF-κB pathway inhibitor) and rapamycin (mTOR inhibitor). High-dose single-agent treatment reduced colony formation and cell viability in vitro and decreased tumor burden in zebrafish xenograft models. Notably, combination treatment achieved comparable antitumor effects at lower concentrations, consistent with a synergistic interaction. Together, these findings indicate that coordinated targeting of NF-κB signaling and downstream metabolic regulators represents a promising therapeutic strategy for malignancies characterized by ING4 deficiency and highlight a broader role for ING4 in maintaining transcriptional and metabolic homeostasis during tumorigenesis.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bland, Jadlyn	Green, Jessica	Clinical trait measures and their effect on vision-restricted spatial sound processing View Full Text Abstract Text It is well established that neurocognitive symptoms can influence sensory perceptual and reward processing. In previous work, we discovered that reward enhanced behavioral performance in a sound source localization (SSL) task. Whether clinical measures influence the relationship between reward and auditory attention in SSL remains unclear. This study examined whether scores on clinical measures predicted reward-induced SSL performance. The SSL-reward task involved beep tones projected from random locations across two hemifields of space in a dark sound-attenuated chamber. Per block of trials, one hemifield of space was associated with reward attainment (5 points or $0.05) for correct localizations, while the other hemifield offered no reward. Across three behavioral experiments, 106 participants completed a variety of non-diagnostic screening measures on anxiety, depression, attention-deficit disorder, and dyslexia before participating in the SSL-reward task. We created multiple linear regression models, regressing SSL behavioral performance (e.g., accuracy, reaction time, total localizations, and location error distance) between rewarded and unrewarded hemifields on each non-diagnostic screening measure. Results indicated that scores on the anxiety screen significantly predicted SSL accuracy when sounds were projected from unrewarded hemifields, such that each unit increase in anxiety scores slightly decreased accuracy in those hemifields. Similarly, both anxiety and dyslexia screen scores predicted mean error distance in unrewarded fields, with increases in anxiety score eliciting increases in error distance (decreased precision) while increases in dyslexia scores yielded decreases in mean error distance (increased precision). These findings suggest that anxiety negatively influences certain behavioral measures of SSL in unrewarded contexts, while dyslexia may influence precision of SSL. Notably, the absence of these effects in rewarded hemifields suggests reward may mitigate the performance-reducing effects of anxiety on sound localization. Together, these findings highlight the nuanced ways in which individual differences in clinical traits interact with motivational factors to influence auditory spatial processing.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Gacsy, Griffin	Burns, Andy	Evaluating How Mexican News Outlets Uphold The Principles of Journalism View Full Text Abstract Text This project analyzes how Mexican news organizations demonstrate the core values of journalism. Through processing multiple forms of media in Mexico, I will examine how the practice of reporting follows values such as objectivity, independence, and credibility, while also observing how other factors like journalist safety, including the threat of cartels, and freedom from power affect their news coverage.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Desmesmin, Esmeralda Hoang, Helene	Fitton, Lisa Cranford, Avery	Investigating the use of pragmatic checklist to inform referral recommendations among Spanish-English speaking children View Full Text Abstract Text Bilingual children develop communication skills across two linguistic systems, often shaped by differing cultural norms and uneven exposure patterns. This impacts all domains of language, including pragmatic language. Pragmatic language skills involve the social use of language, such as gestures, facial expressions, and turn-taking. Pragmatics and other nonverbal behaviors are often assessed initially using criterion-referenced checklists; checklists support the individuals who are conducting the assessment to think through each potential domain of concern, which can inform the type of referral(s) made and future evaluation planning. Bilingual children are at risk of being both over and under-identified for school special education services broadly. Accordingly, accurate characterization of pragmatic abnormalities, physical observations, and behavioral concerns may be critical to directing further evaluation by school-based special education teams and informing subsequent diagnostic decision-making. The present project aims to retroactively examine the implementation and application of a clinician-developed pragmatic and behavioral checklist within an ongoing research study focusing on Spanish-English bilingual kindergarten students’ reading development. Specifically, this poster seeks to evaluate the agreement between checklist usage and referral decisions, to identify areas of strength and limitation in the checklist’s current design. Findings will guide a future redesign of the checklist and support the development of targeted training and educational materials for undergraduate research assistants to promote more consistent, reliable, and contextually informed administration practices.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Shah, Rahil	Wood, Susan K. Smiley, Cora E. Childress, Taylor E. Chugh, Sarah Bielicki, Brian H. Harrington, Evelynn N.	Therapeutic Targeting of Neuroimmune Pathways to Prevent Stress-Induced Hypervigilant Phenotype View Full Text Abstract Text Psychosocial stress is a key precipitating factor in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is marked by persistent fear, hyperarousal, and functional impairment. Females are nearly twice as likely to develop PTSD, potentially due to sex-specific adaptations in the locus coeruleus (LC)-noradrenergic system. Stress activates LC microglia, triggering cytokine release that enhances LC neuronal activity and promotes hypervigilant behavior. Prior work using a validated witness stress (WS) model in female rats demonstrated that inhibiting LC microglia via designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) prevents LC hyperactivity and stress-induced behavioral sensitization. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) was identified as a major pro-inflammatory mediator of this stress-evoked neuroimmune response. This study investigated 1.) Whether blocking IL-1β signaling within the LC using an interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) could prevent development of a hypervigilant phenotype following repeated WS and 2) Subsequently, a second study determined the specific immune and oxidative stress factors inhibited by IL-1Ra following an acute WS or control exposure. Following dose-response testing, female Sprague Dawley rats received intra-LC injections of vehicle (0.1% BSA in sterile 1xPBS) or 30 ng/µL IL-1Ra one day prior to WS or control exposure. During WS, females observed social defeat (15 minutes/day for 5 days) from behind a perforated partition. In study 1.) IL-1Ra prevented the development of stress-induced hypervigilance by specifically blocking exaggerated acoustic startle responses (p<0.05), prevented behavioral sensitization across repeated WS exposures (p<0.05), and significantly reduced burying behavior upon context re-exposure in the absence of WS. Ongoing multiplex ELISA analyses assess cytokine and oxidative stress pathways in the LC and plasma altered by WS and normalized by IL-1Ra. These findings identify IL-1Ra as a promising prophylactic strategy to prevent stress-induced hypervigilant phenotypes and highlight IL-1β signaling in the LC as a potential therapeutic target for stress-related disorders.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Gonzalez, Aliana	Walters, Wendell Weatherly, Meghan Goedken, Mia	Evaluating Chemical Formation and Sources of Sulfate Aerosols in the Eastern North Atlantic View Full Text Abstract Text Sulfate aerosol plays a critical role in the marine environment by influencing cloud formation and radiative forcing. These particles originate from both anthropogenic and biogenic sources, including industrial combustion, maritime shipping, phytoplankton emissions, sea salt, and volcanic activity. Small variations in aerosol concentration can significantly impact solar radiation, particularly in remote regions, making it essential to understand their sources and formation pathways. In this work, we investigated the sources and chemical pathways of sulfate aerosols in the remote eastern North Atlantic. Aerosol samples were collected at the U.S. DOE Eastern North Atlantic Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) site on Graciosa Island, Portugal. This site is predominantly characterized by clean marine air masses with episodic influence from North America, Europe, and the Sahara Desert, making it ideal for investigating marine sulfate sources and chemistry. The objective of this work was to quantify sulfate concentrations, identify formation pathways, and evaluate seasonal variability. Aerosol filters were extracted and analyzed for ion concentration. Sulfate in coarse particles (7.2 μm -3.0 μm) was primarily composed of direct sea salt emissions, as evidenced by a significant correlation between sulfate and sodium (R2 = 0.99) with a slope of 0.26, which is close to the common sea salt aerosol tracer. Sulfate in finer particles (1.5-0.49 μm) was less correlated with sodium (R2 = 0.27), suggesting that sulfate in this size fraction is decoupled from sea salt sources, indicating a sulfate source from non-sea-salt spray, likely originating from oxidation of reduced sulfur precursor gases. The probable sources of small-particle sulfate aerosols are marine emissions of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and maritime emissions of sulfur dioxide. Our future sulfur isotope measurements will help reveal the origin of these particles. Overall, quantifying the contributions of natural and anthropogenic aerosols will enhance our understanding of aerosol transformations, aging, and removal processes in the North Atlantic environment.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Roman, Jude	Pettay, Daniel	Describing the seasonal biomass dynamics and within species diversity of the Sea Wasp (Chiropsalmus quadrumanus) (Müller, 1859) and the Cannonball Jellyfish (Stomopholus Meleagris) (Agassiz, 1860) within the Calibogue Sound. View Full Text Abstract Text The Calibougue sound is a highly productive water basin lying in between Hilton Head Island, Daufuskie Island, and the Savannah River. This area is characterized by its deep geography and high tidal influence from the Atlantic Ocean. During the summer in the calibougue sound there are two commonly observed sea jellies; the cannonball jellyfish (Stomopholus meleagris) and the sea wasp (Chiropsalmus quadrumanus). Although these species are highly prevalent there is nearly no existing biomass data or genetic research for our region. Throughout the summer and fall of 2025 biomass was estimated using data from the Tammy Jane shrimp trawl on 63 separate trips. Nearly 500 samples were collected of both sea wasp, and cannonball jellyfish, for DNA analysis. To date, DNA is being extracted using CTAB protocol. During the spring molecular primers and microsatellites are to be used to conclude data on the in-cohort population genetics for the separate species. This data will hopefully be relevant to local offshore fisheries and improve the understanding of seasonal population dynamics for marine invertebrates.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Carleton, Kaya	Mcquillin, Samuel	The Relationship Between the Knowledge and Engagement of Healthy Sleep in University Students View Full Text Abstract Text Adequate sleep is necessary for cognitive functioning, emotional regulation, academic performance, and physical health, however many college students report inconsistent and poor quality sleep. While many authorities encourage healthy sleep behaviors, such as consistent sleep schedules and limited screen time, we are unsure whether students are promptly uninformed on these topics, or if this is the result of other variables, such as ignorance or inability to implement such behaviors. This study aims to understand the relationship between college students knowledge of healthy sleep practices and their engagement in such behaviors. Using an online questionnaire, undergraduate students will be evaluated on their sleep habits, bed time routines, and knowledge of healthy sleep practices. The data will be analyzed using correlational analyses to determine the strength of the relationship between knowledge and engagement. The results of this study will show if the problem behind lack of healthy sleep in college students is due to a lack of information, or if there are other variables affecting student’s engagement in healthy sleep. Using this information we can conduct further studies on the best way to implement healthy sleep behaviors in University students.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kordamiri, Arshaam	Hollis, Fiona Wood, Susan Spinale, Frank	Effects of gestational stress on long-term cardiovascular health in female rats View Full Text Abstract Text While maternal mortality is decreasing in the western world, the United States continues to have the highest rate among high-income countries. Maternal health faces significant challenges in the United States, with cardiovascular disease (CVD) as the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths. Stress is a known risk factor for CVD and gestation is a period of heightened cardiac vulnerability. Additionally, stress effects can impair a mother’s ability to provide a nurturing environment. Thus, it is crucial to identify and mitigate factors that can enhance maternal outcomes. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), and troponin I are critical biomarkers of cardiac function, with essential roles in diagnosing and monitoring CVD. ANP and BNP are natriuretic peptides that regulate fluid balance, blood pressure, and cardiac remodeling, while troponin I serves as a marker of myocardial injury. We hypothesized that gestational stress would alter postpartum cardiovascular function and geometry, leading to increased protein expression of cardiac biomarkers. To test this hypothesis, we exposed adult female pregnant and nonpregnant rats to either 10 days of chronic gestational stress or handling. Cardiac function was assessed on postpartum days 14 and 24 using echocardiography. Rats were euthanized 24 hours after the last echocardiography session, and the heart was dissected into left and right atria and ventricles respectively. Tissues were weighed and prepared for protein analysis. Preliminary data showed that stress and parity decreased (increased?) changes in ventricular wall measurements while parity increased ejection fraction in the late postpartum (p=0.047). Parity significantly decreased ANP (p=0.001), Pro-ANP (p=0.026), and BNP (p=0.036) levels in the left atria. These data highlight independent effects of stress and parity on the postpartum heart that affect hemodynamic changes. Future directions will investigate cardiac corin, the enzyme responsible for natriuretic peptide cleavage, to determine whether stress compromises its function.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Gracias, Eliana Braddick, Matthew	Li, Yangmei Eliasof, Abbe	Design and Synthesis of Olefin-linked Cyclic Peptide to Enhance Membrane Permeability View Full Text Abstract Text The dysregulation of protein-protein interactions (PPIs) has been implicated in a wide variety of disease states, and compounds targeting PPIs represent a promising class of potential therapeutics. Compared with small molecules, peptides have larger surfaces and relatively flexible backbones, offering better opportunities to target PPI. However, their development is limited due to their poor proteolytic stability and low membrane permeability. Cyclization can partially overcome these limitations, but more tailored structural design is often required to make cyclic peptide membrane permeable to access their intracellular PPI targets. To enhance their membrane permeability, we have designed and synthesized cyclic peptides incorporating an olefin linker using the ring closing metathesis approach. We evaluated the effects of ring size, C=C bond position, and amino acid stereochemistry on cyclization efficiency. The results show that peptides containing three spacer amino acids (R2-R4) in between alkenyl cyclization residues (R1 and R5), a central D-configured amino acid at position R3, and homoallyl glycine at R5 have the highest cyclization yield. Based on these optimized parameters, we have constructed a mixture-based positional scanning library containing 1,029 cyclic peptides using solid-phase peptide synthesis followed by olefin ring closing metathesis. The library is ready to be screened to identify cyclic peptides with enhanced membrane permeability and potential therapeutic relevance.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Yates, Myrtle	Grady, John	Protecting Sponsorship Value from Ambush Marketing in Mega Sport Events: 2026 Winter Olympics and 2025 FIFA Club World Cup View Full Text Abstract Text Mega-sporting events such as the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cup depend heavily on corporate sponsorships as a primary source of revenue. Perceived sponsorship value is threatened by ambush marketing, a strategy where companies attempt to associate their brand with an event in consumers’ minds without paying for official sponsorship rights. As global sporting events continue to grow in scale and media exposure, ambush marketing has become an increasingly significant challenge for organizers and sponsors, especially on social media. This research explores how ambush marketing occurs at major international sporting events, the implications it has for sponsors and event organizers, and the strategies organizers can use to protect sponsorship value. By examining the creative marketing tactics used by non-sponsor brands to gain visibility and engagement during high-profile sporting events, this project identifies key challenges to maintaining sponsor exclusivity. Through qualitative analysis of marketing campaigns, mainly via social media posts, as well as review of existing sport marketing and legal literature, this research contributes to the sport marketing knowledge base and provides a more contemporary understanding of the strategies available to protect sponsorship rights in the global sport industry.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
khosravi, Mohammadali	Wu, Yanwen	Temperature-Dependent SHG Measurements in Li₀.₉Mo₆O₁₇: A System Near the Mott-Insulator–Superconductor Transition View Full Text Abstract Text Second harmonic generation (SHG) is a nonlinear optical technique that is highly sensitive to symmetry changes in materials. In this work, we perform temperature-dependent SHG measurements on single crystalline Li₀.₉Mo₆O₁₇, a quasi-one-dimensional conductor located near the boundary of superconducting and Mott insulating states. By using SHG polarimetry, we investigate how the optical response evolves with temperature and how it relates to the underlying electronic structure. Changes in the SHG signal provide insight into possible symmetry modifications and electronic correlations that develop near characteristic temperature where unusual transport behavior has been reported. These results demonstrate that SHG is a useful probe for studying the interplay between crystal structure, electronic correlations, and emergent phenomena in low-dimensional materials.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Weatherly, Meghan	Walters, Wendell	Methodological Advances in Isotopic Analysis of Nitrate in Ice Cores View Full Text Abstract Text Nitrogen oxides (NOx = NO + NO₂) are key atmospheric trace gases that influence oxidation chemistry, air quality, nutrient deposition, and climate. Since the Industrial Revolution, anthropogenic NOx emissions have exceeded natural sources, however, reconstructing long-term NOx variability remains challenging. Although NOx is too reactive to be preserved in ice cores, its oxidation product nitrate (NO3-) is well-preserved. Most ice core NO₃⁻ studies focus on high latitudes, despite mid-latitude regions of the Northern Hemisphere being more strongly influenced by anthropogenic activity. To address this gap, we acquired an ice core from the Upper Fremont Glacier (Wyoming, USA) to reconstruct historical mid-latitude NOx variability and evaluate links to natural climate events and anthropogenic emissions. Methodological challenges must be resolved before analysis, including removal of exterior contamination, concentration of large melt volumes for isotope analysis, and overcoming the large sample requirements (100–250 nmol) of existing oxygen isotope mass-independent fractionation methods, which limit temporal resolution. We developed an automated melt system that separates inner and outer ice sections, achieving 108% ± 8% recovery (n = 7). Bromide spike tests indicate minimal exterior carryover (1.99% ± 1.65%; n = 5), and the procedural NO₃⁻ blank is 17.9 ± 5.6 ppb (n = 6). For sample concentration, solid-phase extraction using anion exchange resins yielded high recovery (103% ± 7.8%; n = 20) and low isotope variability (δ¹⁵N: 0.34‰; δ¹⁸O: 0.59‰). We also developed a novel isotope method coupling enzymatic reduction of NO₃⁻ to nitrite (NO₂⁻) with chemical conversion of NO₂⁻ to nitrous oxide (N₂O) via sodium azide. Optimized conditions minimize oxygen isotope exchange and require only 10 nmol NO₃⁻ (5–50 µM), achieving standard deviations of 0.1‰ for δ¹⁵N and 0.5‰ for δ¹⁸O. This faster alternative to the denitrifier method maintains analytical precision and is well suited for atmospheric aerosols and ice cores analysis.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Curry, Anajae	Billings, Deborah Perumal, Nandita	Nourishing Health: Observing the Role of Hormonal Phases and Social Determinants on Nutritional Needs During Reproductive Phases View Full Text Abstract Text Many young women of reproductive age experience the natural hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle. Despite this common experience, limited education surrounding menstrual health has contributed to misunderstandings about how to manage hormonal changes effectively. While quantitative research suggests that nutrition influences the ovarian cycle and hormonal balance, less is known about how young women perceive and implement nutritional practices throughout their menstrual phases. This qualitative study explored the live experiences of women regarding nutrition and hormonal regulation during the menstrual cycle. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 women aged 17 to 23, primarily from South Carolina. Interviews were audio and video recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common patterns in participants’ understanding and nutritional behaviors across the follicular, ovulatory, luteal, and menstrual phases. Results indicated that approximately 60% of participants perceived nutrition as playing a significant role in their menstrual health, while 30% reported no prior awareness of a connection between dietary intake and hormonal regulation. Participants expressed varying levels of knowledge regarding phase-specific nutritional needs. Overall, findings suggest a gap in menstrual health education and highlight the need for improved nutritional guidance tailored directly to hormonal phases. These results may inform future educational interventions aimed at empowering young women of reproductive age to better understand and support their reproductive health.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Muniz, Carli	Shtutman, Michael Sikirzhytskaya, Sasha Sikirzhytski, Vitali Aksenova, Marina	ACOD1-Mediated Metabolic Regulation of Microglial Activation in HIV-1 Tat and Cocaine-Induced Neuroinflammation View Full Text Abstract Text Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a critical public health challenge; specifically, people living with HIV (PLWH) with comorbid substance use disorders face a significantly higher risk of developing neurological complications, mild or moderate neurocognitive impairments, or in severe cases, HIV-associated dementia. HIV-associated neurological complications, known as NeuroAIDS, are linked to neuroinflammation caused by toxic HIV proteins. This neuroinflammation is driven by the pathological activation of microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system. Upon activation by HIV-1 proteins, especially the cell-penetrating regulatory protein Tat, microglia trigger inflammatory cascades, resulting in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and abnormal phagocytic pruning of synapses. Interestingly, the activation of microglia triggers a negative feedback loop. HIV-Tat induces the upregulation of the enzyme aconitate decarboxylase 1 (ACOD1), which metabolizes cis-aconitate into itaconate to serve as a metabolic "brake" on excessive neuroinflammation. In this study, we used immunofluorescence microscopy to examine changes in microglial morphology and inflammasome expression caused by Tat and cocaine. We compared primary murine brain cells from wild type (WT) and ACOD1−/− (knockout) mice to understand the regulatory role of the ACOD1/itaconate pathway. Cells were treated with 60 ng/ml of Tat 1-86B along with different concentrations of cocaine (10-25 μM). Microglial activation and phagocytic activity were measured using Iba1 and CD68, while inflammasome-related signaling was evaluated through NLRP3 and GSDMD markers. These results aim to clarify how drug abuse worsens NeuroHIV through synergistic mechanisms, with ACOD1 identified as a potential target for therapy.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
McGregor, Linden	Outten, Caryn Warahena Liyanage Dona, Shashini	Purification and Reconstitution of the S. pombe Iron Repressor Fep1 for Structure/Function Analysis View Full Text Abstract Text Iron homeostasis is necessary to maintain sufficient, non-toxic iron levels in almost all living organisms. Iron plays an essential role in many biochemical pathways, but excess iron can lead to the production of damaging reactive oxygen species. The model yeast S. pombe maintains iron homeostasis via two iron-responsive transcriptional repressors, Php4 and Fep1 (1). Both proteins have close homologues in human fungal pathogens, thus S. pombe provides an effective model for understanding essential iron homeostasis pathways that may be targeted for the development of antifungal compounds. Fep1 is a GATA-type Zn-finger protein that downregulates iron import during iron sufficiency to avoid iron overload (2). Our lab has shown that binding of a [2Fe-2S] cluster regulates the DNA-binding activity of Fep1, and that the Fe-S cluster trafficking proteins Grx4 and Fra2 facilitate removal of the cluster from Fep1 during iron deficiency (3). However, the structure of Fep1 has not been experimentally determined. To produce a protein suitable for structural determination, we generated and purified a truncated version of Fep1 using site-directed mutagenesis and recombinant protein expression and purification. This truncated version is a portion of the DNA-binding domain (amino acids 1-110) that includes zinc finger 1 and the cysteine-rich region hypothesized to bind iron and interact with Grx4. We successfully generated the Fep1(1-110) plasmid and expressed the truncated protein in E. coli. Purification via cell lysis, sonication, and column chromatography yielded a sample with >95% purity, and the circular dichroism spectrum of the sample suggests binding of a [2Fe-2S] cluster, as hypothesized. Semi-enzymatic reconstitution also successfully loaded [2Fe-2S] cluster onto purified Zn-Fep1(1-110). The purified protein will be used for crystallization trials to obtain the 3D structure and visualize the metal-binding sites. Our future studies will focus on measuring the DNA-binding properties of this construct and evaluating its interaction with Grx4-Fra2.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Nelson, Elliot	Mcquillin, Samuel	The Relationship Between Adoption Status and Social Isolation in Adults View Full Text Abstract Text Loneliness and social isolation play a key role in a person's psychological and physical well-being; therefore, it is important to be able to determine what life experiences will influence their sense of belonging. My research focuses on how adoption status will influence an individual's future social experiences and quality of relationships. It is predicted that if individuals are adopted, then they will experience higher levels of loneliness and social isolation compared to non-adopted individuals. This hypothesis will be tested by administering a self-report survey created by the researcher to assess loneliness, social isolation, and relationship quality using a Likert scale. At least 30 volunteers will be recruited through social media platforms, class email lists, or in person by the researcher. Two independent-sample t-tests will be conducted to compare adopted and non-adopted individuals on loneliness and relationship quality. And a Pearson correlation will be used to examine the relationship between loneliness and social support.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Green, Kensley	O'Reilly, Christian	Characterizing the Effect of Kynurenic Acid on Interneurons In Silico View Full Text Abstract Text Kynurenic acid (KYNA), a tryptophan metabolite produced via the kynurenine pathway, is recognized for its modulatory role in neuronal excitability. Despite its known neuroactive properties, the precise mechanisms by which KYNA influences neural activity by modulating its ion currents remain incompletely characterized. A prior study demonstrated an impact of KYNA on the M-type muscarinic potassium current (I_M), a key regulator of subthreshold membrane excitability. The current study implements a computational model to capture the effect of KYNA on neural activity by applying in vitro data to a computational model of somatostatin-positive (SOM+) interneurons. Experimental data were obtained from in vitro GH3 pituitary cells to quantify KYNA-induced changes in I_M gating properties, specifically the half-activation voltage (V1/2) and slope factor derived from steady-state activation curves. These parameters were used to characterize shifts in current-voltage relations under KYNA exposure. The experimentally derived gating modification, specifically the shift in V1/2, was then incorporated into a Hodgkin-Huxley model of a SOM+ interneuron. Simulations were executed using the NEURON package. Four conditions were analyzed to assess KYNA's effect on neuronal excitability: (1) steady-state activation function, (2) current-voltage relations, (3) spiking frequency as a function of injected current, and (4) spiking frequency as a function of membrane voltage. By characterizing the effect of KYNA by its negative shift on V1/2, results demonstrate that KYNA-induced alterations in I_M gating kinetics produce measurable changes in both subthreshold membrane behavior and action potential firing patterns in SOM+ interneurons. Specifically, it shifts the activation threshold, opposing depolarization and increasing subthreshold availability. Moreover, it decreased spiking frequency and increased the current threshold for action potentials. These findings provide a mechanistic framework for understanding how KYNA modulates interneuron activity and represent a critical step toward exploring its potential role in the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric conditions, including autism and mood disorders.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Sturkie, Marion	Hollis, Brian	The Role of the Pheromone cis-Vaccenyl Acetate in Mediating the Rival Effect in Drosophila melanogaster View Full Text Abstract Text Previous research shows that sensory cues influence mating behavior in Drosophila melanogaster, but it remains unclear which cues are necessary to produce the male “rival effect,” in which males adjust mating behaviors such as mating duration when competitors are present (Bretman et al., 2011). To investigate this question, I first exposed males to other males using dividers that allowed visual and olfactory cues while preventing direct interaction. This limited sensory exposure did not produce detectable changes in mating behavior relative to controls, suggesting that these cues alone may not be sufficient to simulate the presence of rivals. To focus directly on a single sensory cue, I next conducted experiments testing the effect of synthetic cis-vaccenyl acetate (cVA), a male-specific pheromone associated with aggregation and courtship behaviors. By exposing males to both low and high concentrations of cVA, I tested whether this pheromone alone could generate the rival effect. If so, pheromone exposure could provide a controlled way to study changes in male mating behavior—such as mating probability, latency, and duration—without confounding factors introduced by the presence of live rivals. This work aims to better understand the role of olfactory cues in mediating mating responses and whether pheromone exposure alone can influence behaviors typically associated with rival males.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Plumer, Michael	Hofseth, Lorne Hebert, James	DIETARY INFLAMMATION AND COGNITIVE DECLINE IN INDIVIDUALS WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE IN SOUTH CAROLINA USING THE DII™ View Full Text Abstract Text Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is one of the most common causes of senile dementia worldwide, currently affecting over 7 million Americans, a number expected to double by 2050. AD is a multifactorial disease with numerous risk factors, two of which are inflammation and diet. Inflammation is the biological response to stress that is closely tied to oxidative stress (OS). Chronic high levels of inflammation or OC can be detrimental to immune function, linked to accelerated cognitive decline. The diet is a lifestyle factor linked to the modification of inflammation/OS and cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s Disease patients. Dietary inflammation levels can be measured through the Energy-adjusted Dietary Inflammatory Index (E-DII™). The E-DII™ is an evidence-based score that estimates the inflammatory potential of an individual’s overall diet, based on the types and amounts of foods and nutrients consumed, while adjusting for total energy intake, a common confounding variable. Thus, the objective of this pilot study was to examine whether dietary inflammation is associated with AD-related cognitive decline by evaluating the relationship between Energy-adjusted Dietary Inflammatory Index (E-DII™) scores and longitudinal rates of cognitive decline. A total of 15 pairs of individuals with AD and their caregivers were enrolled in the study. Caregivers completed Food Frequency Questionnaires for the patient, and the patients’ cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Cog and Mini Mental State Examination at baseline and again at a 6-month follow-up. Linear regression analyses were conducted to determine the relationship between dietary inflammation and cognitive decline. Despite the modest sample size, higher E-DII™ scores were associated with faster cognitive decline over time, with each one-unit increase in DII corresponding to a 0.73-point greater reduction in MMSE score (β = −0.73, p = .010). These findings suggest that a more pro-inflammatory diet may contribute to accelerated cognitive deterioration in individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Do, Kevin	Sheth, Amit Garimella, Ritvik	AI-Powered Tax Processing with Agentic Framework View Full Text Abstract Text Tax calculations remain one of the most complex aspects of personal finance due to the constant evolution of tax codes and the interdependence of values across forms. Even with digital software, taxpayers often struggle to determine which forms apply and how figures such as capital gains are reconciled. These challenges stem from translating regulatory logic into transparent, verifiable computations. ​ Recent AI-driven tax tools rely heavily on large language models. While conversationally effective, these systems can produce inconsistent outputs when applied to structured financial data. This project proposes a deterministic multi-agent framework integrating rule-based agents and a chatbot to improve auditability, accuracy, and user comprehension. In simpler terms, the goal is to replace AI-generated guesses with step-by-step rule checks that users and auditors can verify directly. Based on the C3AN framework’s principles of reliability, consistency, alignment, and reasoning, the system validates and reconciles tax forms through schema enforcement, expected JSON datasets, and strict rule-based calculations. The chatbot references rules derived from IRS documentation and cross-checks them with outputs from the validation system to generate explanations while adhering to regulatory constraints. The system includes several agents, including a form classification agent, a normalization agent, a validation agent, a cross-document checking agent, and a chatbot agent. These agents work integrally within pipeline stages responsible for classification, normalization, validation, aggregation, cross-checking, and explanation. Supporting tools can be called by agents and stages to process documents consistently. A synthetic golden dataset was created to verify the correctness of extracted tax form data. Each test scenario includes a verified PDF form, an expected JSON output, and assertions used to validate specific tax conditions. A rule engine evaluates whether each form satisfies its reporting requirements. Current results show that the deterministic pipeline can classify and validate tax forms consistently while providing explanations to users. ​	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kondrikova, Marina Samuel, Lindsey	Smith, Deanna	Molecular and behavioral changes in adult mice with astrocyte-specific Lis1 Knockout View Full Text Abstract Text LIS1 is expressed in both the developing and adult nervous systems and interacts with dynein, a microtubule (MT) motor protein important for mitosis, phagocytosis, cell migration and intracellular transport. Mutations in Lis1 cause lissencephaly, a rare brain malformation characterized by reduced brain folding, cognitive and motor disfunction and shortened lifespan. The Smith lab showed that Lis1 regulates axonal transport in cultured adult neurons, and that induced global knockout (iKO) of Lis1 in adult mice resulted in rapid lethality, demonstrating important post-developmental roles. We have now induced iKO specifically in adult mouse neurons or astrocytes. Depletion in neurons is lethal, and axons showed signs of severe degeneration. On the contrary, mice survive when Lis1 is disrupted in astrocytes but expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a marker of astrocyte reactivity, is upregulated, indicating that the cells may shift into a “reactive” state. This reactivity can disrupt and alter neural circuit stability, and we have noted evidence for increased anxiety in these mice. We will use behavioral analysis tools such as MoSeq and Blackbox Bio, alongside established behavioral assays like the light-dark and open field tests, to quantify anxiety- and motor-related changes in these mice. Cultured astrocytes from iKO mice show evidence of reduced dynein activity. Because phagocytosis by adult astrocytes contributes to synaptic pruning, we will examine tissues for gain or loss of synapses, particularly in regions of the brain linked to anxiety. Also, because GFAP upregulation is typically caused by axonal pathology we will look for signs of axonal degeneration in fiber tracts in astrocyte-specific Lis1 iKO mice. These studies will correlate Lis1 and dynein-dependent cellular processes in astrocytes with mouse behavior.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Schrecker, Bennett	Mcquillin, Samuel	Does gender change the correlation between gym activity and mental body image View Full Text Abstract Text Previous research suggests that regular physical activity is associated with improved body image and mental health, although these relationships may vary by gender. This study will examine whether gender influences the relationship between gym activity and mental body image. At least 30 participants will complete a survey measuring gym frequency, workout intensity, and duration of gym participation. Body image will be assessed using a standardized self-report body image scale. Gender will also be recorded as a demographic variable. A multiple regression analysis will be conducted to examine whether gender moderates the relationship between gym activity and body image. This research aims to better understand the complexity of body image related mental health and whether gender changes the relationship between exercise habits and body image perceptions.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Barnwell, Spencer	Stray-Gundersen, Sten	Blood Flow Restriction Does Not Augment Post-Activation Performance Enhancement in Resistance-Trained Adults View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) describes the transient improvement in explosive performance following a neuromuscular priming activity. PAPE protocols typically involve brief, high-load resistance exercise to stimulate transient increases in power output. Blood flow restriction (BFR) training has emerged as a method capable of amplifying muscle activation with lower mechanical loads. Thus, BFR may augment PAPE responses while reducing the need for high external loads. However, the effectiveness of BFR as a conditioning stimulus for PAPE remains unclear. Purpose: To determine whether the addition of BFR enhances the magnitude or time course of PAPE following high- and low-load resistance exercise. Methods: Seventeen resistance-trained adults (7F/10M, age=21.9±6.2. BMI=25.5±8.7) completed four experimental conditions: high-load squats (HL; 3 repetitions at 80%1RM), high-load with blood flow restriction (HL-BFR), low-load squats (LL; 5 repetitions at 50%1RM), and low-load with BFR (LL-BFR. Pneumatic BFR cuffs were applied bilaterally to the proximal thighs and inflated to 400 mmHg. Each session was separated by ≥72 hours. Participants completed three baseline countermovement jumps (CMJ) on dual force plates (Hawkin Dynamics), then underwent a standardized warm-up and neuromuscular priming protocol. CMJ performance was then reassessed immediately (<5s) and at 30s, 4min, 8min, and 12min post. Linear mixed models were used to assess differences in CMJ performance across conditions and time. Results: CMJ performance improved across time (p<0.001). Post hoc comparisons revealed enhanced jump performance at 30s, 4min, and 8min compared to baseline (p<0.05). However, CMJ performance was similar across all conditions. Conclusion: Neuromuscular priming activities elicited a PAPE response, enhancing CMJ performance. However, the addition of BFR did not enhance the magnitude or timing of this response compared with traditional priming strategies. Notably, similar improvements were observed following both high- and low-load protocols, suggesting that PAPE may be achieved with low-to-moderate loads in resistance-trained individuals	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Srivastava, Paras	Shimizu, Linda	Crystallization and utility of brominated phenylethynylene bis-urea macrocycles View Full Text Abstract Text Bis-urea macrocycles can spontaneously self-assemble into ordered structures through hydrogen bonding via their urea groups. These structures can be columnar, allowing for their utility as hosts in host-guest systems.1 Reactions between the guests within these hosts can be used to enhance or modify stereospecificity, reaction rates, and other physical properties.2 Previously, photodimerization reactions between coumarins and chromones have been studied in host systems of phenylethynylene bis-urea macrocycle 1, resulting in the improved specificity and yield of the photodimerization products.3,4 Herein, we apply a dynamic covalent chemistry (DCC) strategy to synthesize macrocycle 1 and its derivative macrocycle 2 containing exterior bromides, improving the yield of the cyclization reaction from 10% up to 29%. We are screening crystallization conditions to attempt to obtain large crystals of 1 and 2 for structure elucidation by single crystal X-ray diffraction. In addition, co-crystal formation is being screened using equimolar mixtures of macrocycles 1 and 2 as well as employing additives that can fit in the channels. Once crystals are obtained, these hosts with their accessible columnar channels will be investigated as nanoreactors. This study will contribute to the design of functional materials for the synthesis of useful photoproducts that are challenging to synthesize.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Remaili, Soraya	Meyer-Gutbrod, Erin Kreuser, Abigail	Lessons from Real-Time and Archival Acoustic Detections of North Atlantic Right Whales in the Southeast US across Three Types of Platforms View Full Text Abstract Text The critically endangered North Atlantic right whale (NARW) migrates seasonally along the US East coast to their winter calving grounds in the Southeast US. In the shallow waters off the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, NARWs nurse, rest, and socialize near the surface, exposing whales and calves to a high risk of ship strike. In NARW’s northern foraging grounds, real-time passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) using gliders and buoys is being used to inform monitoring efforts and communicate detections with vessel captains and managers to reduce risk of vessel strikes. In the Southeast US, glider-based PAM may also be a useful monitoring tool for providing 24/7 coverage. However, the unique shallow environment creates uncertainty in the detectability of NARWs in the region. To better inform the deployment of real-time instruments in this region, we analyzed acoustic data from three different platform types. Three bottom-mounted, archival hydrophones were deployed at increasing depths (15.9m, 19.5m, 22m) and distances off the coast of Savannah, Georgia, from January-May 2023-2026. Real-time PAM buoys were deployed off the coasts of Norfolk, Virginia and Savannah, Georgia at the beginning of the 2023 calving season. A real-time PAM-equipped Slocum Glider was deployed over 6 approximately 1-month long missions in January-March from 2023-2026. The Norfolk buoy triggered 17 acoustically-detected Slow Zones over this period, and 2 acoustic right whale detections on the Savannah buoy in January 2026 triggered the first ever acoustic Slow Zone in the South Atlantic Bight. The NOAA-issued Slow Zones provide critical real-time information to mariners about right whale presence and vessel strike risk, requesting reductions in vessel speeds to <10 knots. These detections and associated Slow Zone notices demonstrate potential for an acoustic real-time monitoring program that would complement existing aerial monitoring efforts in the Southeast US.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bennett, Isabelle	Taylor Jr., Scott Norris, Cortney	Cali Sober: Predicting On-Premises THC Beverage Demand Through Existing Consumption Patterns View Full Text Abstract Text Introduction As legalization expands across the United States, THC-infused beverages have emerged as a rapidly growing segment of the beverage market. Marketed as wellness-oriented alternatives to alcohol, these products have gained traction among consumers, with survey data indicating substantial overlap between hemp beverage purchasers and alcohol or non-alcoholic beer consumers. Regulatory policies vary by state, creating operational and liability challenges for businesses, including delayed intoxication effects, limited mechanisms for monitoring overconsumption, and exclusion from traditional liquor liability insurance. This study examines whether existing on-premises beverage consumption patterns predict consumer interest in THC beverages, offering insight into potential adoption within hospitality venues. Methods Data will be collected through a Qualtrics survey and local polling at the University of South Carolina. Measures include demographics, prior THC use, frequency and location of non-THC beverage consumption, and anticipated THC beverage use. Respondents rate consumption frequency across venue types using a five-point scale, with an optional open-ended item for additional venue suggestions. Ordinal logistic regression will assess whether current consumption behaviors predict interest in THC beverages within comparable venues. Expected Results Higher alcohol consumption at a given venue is expected to predict stronger interest in THC beverages at that same venue, consistent with documented overlap between alcohol and THC consumers. Coffee and tea consumption are anticipated to show minimal association. Multicollinearity among beverage types will be assessed, with dimensional reduction techniques applied if necessary. The strongest predictive relationships are expected between alcohol-related behaviors and THC beverage interest. Significance This study evaluates whether current beverage behaviors serve as reliable indicators of THC beverage demand in hospitality settings. By empirically testing assumptions surrounding alcohol substitution and wellness-driven consumption trends, findings will provide evidence-based guidance for hospitality operators and policymakers while informing future segmentation analyses targeting optimal venues and consumer groups.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Dunham, Mya	Clay-Gilmour, Alyssa El Kalach, Nadine	Recommendations and Perspectives of Genetic Counseling for Hematologic Malignancies View Full Text Abstract Text Hematologic malignancies (HMs) including leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma are a significant source of cancer-related morbidity and mortality with a notable impact in South Carolina. Knowledge of the genetics and heredity of these cancers have begun to rapidly emerge in recent years because of advances in genomic sequencing. Due to this, new recommendations are being developed for genetic risk assessment of HMs which has led genetic counseling for this population to rapidly change. Recent literature has been published regarding genetic counseling for HMs, but it is unknown how this has translated into the clinical setting. This study aims to explore the current recommendations and perspectives from genetic counselors for genetic counseling of HMs in the state of South Carolina. It will examine their implementation in clinical practice and analyze their perspectives regarding the applicability, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. This is a qualitative study utilizing semi-structured interviews of practicing cancer genetic counselors from clinical settings that treat HMs such as Prisma Health, USC, and MUSC. The interview questions explore their confidence in counseling for HMs, how they apply current recommendations and guidelines, what challenges arise in clinical implementation, and how they perceive the evolving role of genetics in caring for these patients. Interview transcripts are coded and analyzed using NVivo software to conduct a thematic analysis and identify patterns in perspectives and practices. Preliminary observations suggest varying levels of confidence in counseling for HMs yet similar emphasis on its importance. Participants also describe the need for better integration of rapidly evolving research into clear and widespread guidelines. Real world insight into how evolving genomic evidence is used in patient care highlights how risk assessment and counseling can be improved to ultimately better support patients and their families. Future research should expand to other states and evaluate perspectives of hematologists and oncologists.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Mirelez, Adriana	Wippold, Guillermo Prothro, Kalyn	Scoping Review: Health-Promotion Interventions for Black Males View Full Text Abstract Text Black men experience one of the lowest life expectancies in the United States, likely attributed to preventable causes (e.g., chronic disease). However, Black men possess cultural assets that may mitigate adverse health outcomes. Current health promotion efforts targeting Black men often face common challenges, including difficulties with recruitment/retention, and an absence of intentional implementation within cultural institutions deemed as safe spaces for Black men, specifically barbershops. These challenges significantly limit the ability of health promotion efforts to produce health-related improvements among Black men. Health promotion efforts that incorporate cultural assets, such as barbershop-based settings, may enhance effectiveness and improve health outcomes among Black men. The present study conducted a scoping review using the RE-AIM framework to examine health promotion interventions among Black men implemented in barbershops. A systematic search of electronic databases identified a total of 347 articles, of which 13 articles met inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Of the 13 studies identified, most were designed for Black men with a specific health condition or criterion (e.g., hypertension). Nine studies reported a mean participant age of over 40 years old. Retention rates ranged from 72% to 100%. Intervention dosage varied, from one session (n = 5) to multiple sessions (n = 5), with seven studies including barbers in the implementation of the intervention. Eleven studies reported positive improvements in targeted health-related outcomes. Our findings suggest that barbershop-based health promotion efforts demonstrate promising effectiveness and adequate retention rates, which may support improved health outcomes among Black men. However, most interventions targeted older men, men with specific health conditions, and had varying degrees of intervention dosage. Future research would benefit from implementing barbershop-based health interventions with younger men, men without preexisting health conditions, and from standardizing intervention design to engage in prevention of adverse health outcomes among Black men.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Hiers, Eli	Miller, Sarah	Structural Misalignment Through Perception of Local Opportunity; Allendale, SC View Full Text Abstract Text My research examines the economic barriers and their impact on career decision-making in Allendale County, SC. My results show that sustained disadvantages negatively affect community perceptions of local opportunities. Using 2019-2023 Census data, I examined barriers such as poverty, income level, job security, educational level, and access to computers, cars, and internet access for Allendale County and the surrounding counties of Bamberg, Barnwell, Colleton, and Hampton to contextualize the area. Next, I reviewed how these barriers manifest in K-12 education and intensify until graduation. The third phase of this project is to identify the misalignment between community perception and reality. The combination of IPEDS data and industry composition Census data is used as a benchmark for the reality of local opportunity in Allendale County, while interviews with local success stories and staff testimonies are used as a benchmark for community perception. During this study, I expected to find a direct link between how people in the community saw things and how many students from Allendale Fairfax High School signed up for classes at USC Salkehatchie. This was not the case. Instead, I found a structural misalignment between community perception and industry composition, which provides a basis for subsequent research and applications regarding the positive recognition of opportunities within the community perception framework.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Williams, Jordan	Wilson, Kiesha	Sexually Dimorphic AT2 Cell Dysfunction in SEB-Induced ARDS View Full Text Abstract Text Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) poses a significant risk in advanced COVID-19 and other inflammatory conditions. It is characterized by damage to the pulmonary epithelium, surfactant dysfunction, and excessive inflammation. This disease has sex differences in severity; however, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. The cytokine storm driving ARDS can be modeled by exposing C3H/HeJ mice to Staphylococcus enterotoxin B (SEB). This study investigates how biological sex shapes alveolar epithelial injury in SEB-induced ARDS, focusing on type II alveolar epithelial cell (AT2) dysfunction and Alox15 as the central driver for this sex-specific pathology. In our investigation, we used lung function analysis, single-cell and bulk RNA assays, and metabolic profiling to test our hypothesis. RNA sequencing revealed significant upregulation of Alox15 in females compared to males. Quantitative PCR showed females had greater suppression of Scgb1a1, and surfactant protein D (Sftpd), which are associated with AT2 secretory dysfunction. Males showed significant downregulation of the progenitor marker Sca-1, indicating AT2 progenitor exhaustion as their primary injury signature. Untargeted BALF metabolomics revealed that loss of SCGB1A1 in females disinhibited sPLA2, driving LysoPE accumulation and excess free polyunsaturated fatty acids, including linoleic acid and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the BALF. Reduced CDP-ethanolamine and dCDP in the female BALF confirmed Kennedy Pathway failure, leaving AT2 membranes degraded and unreplaced. In contrast, males showed elevated CDP-ethanolamine, dCDP, and PE, confirming active membrane resynthesis, alongside elevated glutathione reflecting compensatory antioxidant responses that limited oxidative injury. Males exhibited elevated CDP-ethanolamine and dCDP, alongside increased PE and decreased LysoPE, confirming successful membrane reacylation by the Lands cycle, demonstrating alveolar membrane resynthesis. Elevated glutathione and 28-galloylglucosyl suggests males mount an antioxidant response, limiting Alox15 driven oxidative injury despite significant AT2 progenitor cell loss. These results indicate Alox15 as a potential target for sex driven pathogenesis in ARDS.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Craft, Nicole	Shimizu, Linda	Modulating the Assembly of Supramolecular Polymers of Bis-Urea Macrocycles View Full Text Abstract Text Bis-Urea Macrocycles demonstrate precise natural self-assembly through noncovalent hydrogen-bonding interactions. These interactions form nanotube-like fibrous structures. The goal of this study was to investigate whether this natural polymerization could be controlled in m-terphenyl bis-urea macrocycles (1), to produce assemblies with defined size and structural selectivity. To achieve this control, two strategies were investigated: supramolecular chain-capping and template-assisted polymerization. The first strategy regulates nanotube length by introducing capping agents that bind to the ends of growing assemblies of (1), preventing further elongation entirely. The second strategy develops structural selectivity by incorporating a molecular template, designed to stabilize specific nanotube structures and sizes during formation. The effectiveness of both approaches was evaluated using UV–Vis spectroscopy, which monitors the assembly of (1) through size- and shape-dependent absorbance changes. To further investigate the assembly mechanism, concentration- and time-dependent cooling experiments were performed. By gradually cooling the solutions and measuring absorbance at multiple wavelengths, the formation process was able to be examined in detail. The resulting data were then used to generate a spectrum plotting aggregate fraction versus temperature to mathematically confirm structure formation. These results indicate that the supramolecular chain-capping method is the more effective method for controlling polymer growth of (1). Effective chain stoppers required hydrogen-bond acceptor strengths (β values) exceeding 8.3, comparable to the β value of the urea groups within macrocycle (1). Phosphate-derivative chain stoppers, particularly phosphonate diesters (β = 8.9), demonstrated the greatest ability to limit this elongation. Overall, this work demonstrates that supramolecular polymerization of (1) can be controlled in solution, providing a practical method for regulating macrocyclic elongation.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Har, Haley	Dallas, Tad	Invasive Species and Network Structure Jointly Impact Coextinction View Full Text Abstract Text Parasites are understudied and underrepresented in regard to conservation. This project investigates how host–parasite network structure and invasive species jointly influence coextinction dynamics. Because many parasites depend on one or a small number of host species, the loss of hosts can result in cascading secondary extinctions, a process known as coextinction. A feature of network structure, modularity, is thought to influence stability, as highly modular networks may better resist perturbations. At the same time, invasive host species can alter interaction patterns by introducing novel or highly connected links within a network. This project examined how host–parasite network structure and the presence of invasive hosts jointly influenced parasite coextinction risk. The goal of this project was to quantify variation in network modularity across geographic regions and determine whether the proportion of non-native host species was associated with changes in network structure and stability. This was accomplished by calculating modularity values for each network in R and evaluating the number of invasive species. Comparisons were made among networks differing in the fraction of invasive hosts to evaluate how invasion status influenced structural robustness. By linking invasion biology with ecological network analysis, this project provides insight into how biological invasions may influence patterns of coextinction. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of biodiversity loss and highlight the importance of incorporating parasites into conservation and ecosystem management strategies.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kantor, Molly	Weik, Terrance Wright, Parrish	Alea Iacta Est, analyzing cultural transfer through Ancient Roman dice View Full Text Abstract Text Dice have been used for thousands of years, both as gaming tools and as divination devices- objects that help people communicate with the gods through chance. Roman archaeologists typically categorize dice only as gaming objects and treat them as small finds. This research investigates Ancient Roman dice as divinatory devices and how their features can show processes of cultural transmission by focusing on materials dating from the fifth century BCE to the fifth century CE from sites in Italy (Gabii, Pompeii), England (Londinium), and Egypt (Naukratis). The approach used in this research is a comparative typological and methodological study, viewed through the lens of entanglement. Changes in the die material, form, pip style, and configuration demonstrate the intentionality of die-making and therefore help identify cultural markers that indicate whether a die had the potential to serve as a divination device. Intentional symbolic meaning exists in Ancient Roman dice, and these meanings evolved through cultural transmission across the Roman Empire. The findings show that Ancient Roman dice should not be dismissed as solely gaming objects but as objects that could be used in ritual practices, thereby providing further insight into the everyday lives of the Ancient Romans and the groups they came into contact with.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Iacabucci, Victoria	Gower, Michael	Impact of polymer molecular weight and homogenization speed on polymer particles for long-acting injectable drug delivery View Full Text Abstract Text Polymer particles are used as a method of drug delivery that supplies a continuous dose over multiple weeks with one injection. A common polymer used to form these particles is poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLG), which encapsulates the drug of interest and slowly degrades inside the body to release the drug. This drug release rate is dependent on particle size, with larger particles having a slower release rate. A common method to make these particles is the emulsion method, as used to make the first FDA approved long-acting injectable PLG particles, Lupron Depot®. The emulsion consists of an aqueous phase of polyvinyl alcohol, the emulsifier, and an organic phase. The organic phase used to make Lupron Depot® and several other particle formulations is dichloromethane due to its high volatility and the fact that it is insoluble in water, allowing it to be quickly extracted to form hard, spherical particles. However, dichloromethane is considered unsafe and should be avoided due to easy exposure through inhalation and risks of toxicity. This study aimed to fabricate microparticles using ethyl acetate instead of dichloromethane, and determine the effects of PLG molecular weight, polyvinyl alcohol concentration, and homogenization speed on particle size and morphology. Using an oil-in-water emulsion method, we fabricated PLG particles, then sized them with dynamic light scattering and microscopy. The results showed that the particles made with ethyl acetate were smaller than those made with dichloromethane. Increasing PLG molecular weight did increase particle size, but also led to increased particle aggregation, which was remedied with increased emulsifier concentration. Decreasing homogenization speed yielded larger particles. With these results, future work can include developing a relationship for PLG molecular weight and homogenization speed on particle size, and determining the achievable size range from changing these parameters alone.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Alarcon, Selene	Gonzalez, Veronica	California vs South Carolina: Political Differences Within Hispanic Communities View Full Text Abstract Text This study examines political differences within Hispanic communities in two distinct regions: California and South Carolina. While Hispanic populations are often treated as politically uniform, this project starts from the assumption that political attitudes are shaped by local context, including state policy environments, community demographics, migration histories, and everyday experiences with institutions. Using a mixed-methods design, the research combines survey data with semi-structured interviews to identify both broad patterns and deeper explanations for how participants understand contemporary politics. The analysis focuses especially on perceptions of the current political climate and immigration-related issues, including how respondents interpret policy debates, evaluate political parties and leaders, and describe the impacts of political decisions on their families and communities. Comparing two states with very different political cultures offers a way to examine how place shapes political attitudes within the same broad ethnic category. Rather than assuming a single “Hispanic perspective,” the study highlights variation across regions and emphasizes the importance of community-level and state-level context in shaping political beliefs. Findings contribute to discussions of political behavior, identity, and representation by showing how geographic setting can influence the issues that feel most urgent, the language people use to describe them, and the forms of political engagement they view as possible or effective.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Chaluvadi, Lathika	Absher, John	Investigation of Sex-Stratified Neuroanatomical Connectivity in Parkinson’s Disease using DTI-based tractography View Full Text Abstract Text Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, affecting 0.15% of the population worldwide. PD pathogenesis involves the loss of dopaminergic neurons, presenting clinically with considerable variability in motor impairments and disease progression. Previous research on structural connectivity has suggested that disruptions in the neural connectome may correlate with specific clinical manifestations of PD symptomology. As such, this study aims to investigate sex-related structural connectivity variations using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) tractography to better understand unique pathophysiologies of PD, aiding in more effective, targeted clinical treatment. DTI data from 179 PD subjects were extracted from the Parkinson Progression Marker Initiative (PPMI). Diffusion Spectrum Imaging (DSI) Studio batch processing tools refined DTI scans and removed scans with low-quality or missing data. The “ICBM152_adult” atlas was utilized to generate DTI metrics for 61 pre-selected white matter (WM) tracts using DSI Studio’s “Automatic Fiber Tracking” function. After excluding patient scans with missing tracts, a sample size of 145 PD subjects and 39 WM tracts remained. Sex-stratified correlation matrices were constructed to evaluate the association between the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) symptom scores and WM tract patterns in Posit (RStudio). Using correlation values ≥0.3, 15 models (14 female, 1 male) were generated to predict motor symptom severity using DTI metrics for ≥2 correlated WM tracts. Logistic regression analyses assessed the accuracy of each WM tract model, with 80% of the data utilized for model training and the remaining 20% for model evaluation. Confusion matrices generated for each model demonstrate variable (60-90%) model accuracy, suggesting that specific sex-stratified WM connectome patterns may be predictive of PD motor symptomology. These preliminary results illustrate both the importance of sex-stratified PD research and a potential future use of DTI scans in predicting PD symptomology and severity in a clinical context.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Deutsch, Shannon Patel, Trishna	Wippold, Guillermo Garcia, Kaylyn	Bridging Research and Practice: The Role of Undergraduate Research Experience in Shaping Future Nurses View Full Text Abstract Text As nursing students at USC, we believe research experience is a vital component of the undergraduate nursing experience. Gaining research experience strengthens the clinical competencies essential to professional nursing practice and reinforces the principles of evidence-based practice (EBP), which integrates current research with clinical expertise to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. Research shows that applied experiences with EBPs significantly improve undergraduate nursing students’ critical thinking, evidence appraisal, and clinical decision-making skills (Jeong et al., 2024). Furthermore, students involved in EBP projects report increased confidence in analyzing and applying research findings to real-world settings (Baixinho et al., 2022). Through our involvement as research assistants (RAs) in the Community Health Interventions and Resilience Promotion (CHIRP) Lab, we have gained experience translating research into practice through community-based participatory research (CBPR). CBPR is an approach to research that involves communities as equal partners in the research process to help bridge the research to practice gap. The CHIRP lab utilizes a CBPR approach to specifically address disparate health outcomes of Black Americans relative to other racial/ethnic groups. Being RAs in the CHIRP lab has thus deepened our understanding of the impacts of racism, discrimination, and medical mistrust on health outcomes among marginalized communities and how research can be leveraged by nurses to select/tailor EBPs, promote health, and advocate for health equity. Our experience as RAs in the CHIRP lab have also emphasized the importance of trust-building and culturally responsivity when working with marginalized communities - a critical component of our practice as future nurses. Ultimately, attendees of this presentation will learn that undergraduate research experience helps bridge the research to practice gap, shaping reflective, culturally responsive, and forward-thinking nurses prepared to meet the healthcare needs of diverse communities.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Garcia, Kaylyn	Wippold, Guillermo Wong, Dylan Deutsch, Shannon	Community Partner Insights on Successful Community-Academic Health Research Partnerships with Black American Communities View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Although community-engaged health research has demonstrated success, outcomes are often defined by statistically significant intervention effects. Less attention is given to evaluating the health and effectiveness of the partnership itself—an element frequently credited as central to intervention success. This review aims to identify strategies for partnership success as described by community partners involved in health research with Black and/or African American communities. Methods: The review protocol was preregistered with the Open Science Framework. Studies were included if they: (1) involved community partners in the research process, (2) described a community-academic partnership, (3) focused on mental, physical, social, and/or spiritual health, (4) primarily served Black or African American communities, (5) were conducted in the United States, and (6) explicitly reported community partner perspectives on the partnership. PsycINFO (EBSCO) and PubMed were searched. Articles were limited to English-language publications, with no date restrictions. A total of 1,521 articles were uploaded to Rayyan and screened for eligibility. Results: Twenty-one studies met inclusion criteria. Most used a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach and focused on physical health. Community partners’ roles and relationships to the priority community varied. Partner-identified strategies for success aligned with commonly cited community-engaged research principles. Community partners also emphasized practical considerations, including clear communication, cultural sensitivity, trust-building, and more. Discussion: Academic researchers seeking to partner with Black and/or African American communities in health research should commit to using a CBPR approach and tailor partnership (not solely intervention) practices to community needs and preferences. This review synthesizes community partner–identified strategies to promote successful community-academic partnerships with Black and/or African American communities in health research.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Royson, Cotes	Twiss, Jeff Thames, Elizabeth Leon de Lopez, Maddy Michenfelder, Emily	Investigating HDAC6 Deletion as a Therapeutic Strategy in a Neuronal FIG4 Knockout Model of Charcot–Marie–Tooth Disease Type 4J View Full Text Abstract Text Charcot Marie Tooth Disease Type 4J (CMT4J) is a progressive peripheral neuropathy that results in neurodegeneration from haploinsufficiency of the FIG4 gene. In previous studies, it has been found that mice with the FIG4 knockout experience neurological symptoms like including tremors and gait disturbance with low birth weight and premature death. FIG4 protein is needed for vesicle processing and FIG4 depletion results in altered mitochondrial function and transport of nuclear encoded mitochondrial protein mRNAs into axons. We previously found that HDAC6 protein deacetylates MIRO1 that is needed for mitochondrial transport in axons and deletion of HDAC6 increases axonal mitochondrial function (Kalinski et al., 2019). Therefore, I tested the hypothesis that deletion of HDAC6 will mitigate or delay onset of neurological symptoms in neuronal FIG4 knockout, neuronal FIG4 x HDAC6 knockout, neuronal HDAC6 knockout, and wild type mice. Neuronal specific knockouts were generated by crossing FIG4 and HDAC6 Fl/Fl with Syn1-Cre mice. I used BlackBox technology to analyze movement, limb and paw usage/placement, and gait over 50-80 days of age in these mice. Distance travels, toe spread, paw pressure, and hip splaying angles were quantified. Also, body weight was recorded before each BlackBox session to evaluate weight over time, which was found to be lower over time in mice with the FIG4 knockout compared to those with intact FIG4 gene. Though I was blinded to genotype during the behavioral analyses, some mice clearly showed shaking indicative of neurological dysfunction and those were ones with Syn1-Cre cross – those mice with shaking were euthanized prior to conclusion of the analyses. We are still analyzing the BlackBox data.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Patel, Aavan	Mizgier, Malgorzata Wang, Xuewen Kaushik, Rahul Hudson, Riley Amin, Bhavya Stoccardo, Gina	An Exploration of Association between Sleep Characteristics and Depressive Symptoms in Young Females View Full Text Abstract Text Purpose: Insufficient or poor-quality sleep has been linked to worse mental health. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between sleep characteristics measured by actigraphy monitors, with depressive symptoms in young females. Methods: Seventeen female participants (aged 19 - 27) participated in this cross-sectional study. Sleep characteristics were assessed using an accelerometer worn on the wrist for four consecutive days. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Pearson's correlation analysis was used to determine the association between sleep characteristics and depression symptoms. Results: Participants were aged 21.1 ± 2.2 years (mean ± SD). Mean body mass index was 23.4 ± 2.9 kg/m² with six participants in the overweight range (25.0 - 29.9 kg/m²). Mean CES-D score was 8.0 ± 5.6, with two participants “considered depressed” (CES-D ≥ 16). Sleep data was not adequately collected (< 3 days) for three participants. For the remaining fourteen participants, sleep latency was 6.0 ± 2.2 min, sleep efficiency was 88.3 ± 3.1%, total sleep time was 461.3 ± 51.9 min, and wake after sleep was 55.4 ± 16.5 min. CES-D Score was moderately positively correlated with sleep latency (Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient, r = 0.58). Additionally, CES-D score was weakly negatively correlated with sleep time (r = -0.24). However, CES-D showed little to no correlation with sleep efficiency (r = -0.2) or wake after sleep (r = -0.14). Conclusion: Higher depressive symptoms were associated with longer sleep latency and shorter sleep duration in this sample of young females. These findings suggest that depressive symptoms may be linked with difficulty falling asleep and obtaining sufficient sleep. A larger sample size may help confirm these associations.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Green, Delilah	Hollis, Fiona	Impact of Gestational Stress on Splenic Immune Cell Proliferation in rats View Full Text Abstract Text Impact of Gestational Stress on Splenic Immune Cell Proliferation in rats Delilah Green, Nazharee Cloude, Mercy Munyanya, Erin Gorman-Sandler, Alaina Mullaly, Tim Philbeck, and Fiona Hollis Gestational stress has been shown to impact offspring development and increase risks for behavioral and physiological disorders. In humans, gestational stress is associated with an elevated risk of metabolic, immune, and stress-related disorders in offspring. However, many preclinical studies have focused primarily on male offspring, leaving important sex differences underexplored. Here, we investigated the effects of gestational stress on offspring immune function. We hypothesized that gestational stress would induce differences in spleen weight and proliferation in the offspring. We may also observe differences in stress effects according to age. To test this hypothesis, one male and one female per litter were selected from three developmental stages (neonate, adolescent, and adulthood) from female Wistar rats exposed to either control handling or gestational stress conditions. The spleens were collected, weighed, and normalized to tibia length. Splenic immune cell proliferation was assessed using western blot analysis of the proliferation marker proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Two-way ANOVAs were conducted within each age group to test for main effects of sex and stress, and a three-way ANOVA examined effects of sex, stress, and age. We observed age-specific effects of stress to alter spleen weights that differed between males and females. These findings suggest that gestational stress induces lasting, sex-dependent alterations in offspring immune development that may influence later stress susceptibility.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Childs, Alexandra	Wessinger, Carolyn	Testing biochemical hypotheses concerning a purple-white polymorphism in Penstemon whippleanus View Full Text Abstract Text Penstemon whippleanus exhibits a balanced within-population polymorphism in which individuals have either purple or white flowers. These polymorphic populations are found throughout the geographic range of P. whippleanus, suggesting that natural selection is maintaining variation via balancing selection. The gene responsible for this polymorphism is an R2R3-MYB transcription factor. This gene regulates the expression of the flavonoid pathway, which is responsible for production of colorful anthocyanin pigments and UV-protective flavonols found in flowers and leaves. Prior work suggests the purple allele is dominant, but remains untested. PCR-based genotyping allows us to test this dominance hypothesis by measuring flavonoids (anthocyanins and flavonols) and observing if genotype explains flavonoid concentration differences. We collected leaves and flowers for fifty individuals from a population in Colorado. Flavonoids were extracted through acid-methanol extraction and measured via UV-vis spectroscopy. We investigated genotype-based differences in flavonoid concentrations in flowers and leaves. Results showed all genotypes had differences in anthocyanin concentration in flowers (p< 0.0001), but not flavonols. Differences between purple-flowered genotypes were smaller (p=0.0084) than the differences between purple- and white-flowered genotypes (p<0.0001), suggesting partial dominance of the purple allele. Pleotropic genes (genes affecting many traits), are more likely to be selected against. Hence, theory predicts that the genetic basis of balance polymorphisms is unlikely to be pleiotropic. We tested this hypothesis by asking if the phenotypic difference in flowers is also present in leaves. Results showed no significant group differences between MYB genotype and production of anthocyanins or flavonols in leaves, suggesting the MYB gene is not pleiotropic. This supports the hypothesis that genes underlying balanced polymorphisms are likely to have few phenotypic effects, demonstrated by variation at the MYB only affecting flower anthocyanins and not floral flavonols or leaf flavonoids.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Mehta, Ariya	LoPresti, Eric Jaeger, Sierra	Dynamic between Betalain Pigmentation and Reproductive Success in Abronia fragrans View Full Text Abstract Text Varied pigmentation within a species can influence selective environmental factors. Specifically analyzed in the Abronia fragrans, exhibition of differing betalain pigmentation within the sole population geographically located in the same area is potent. Betalain is a nitrogen-containing pigment that aids in deterring herbivory and protects against abiotic stress. High betalain concentrated plants are associated with having a divergent phenotype of a pink coloration. These pink colored A.fragans have been discovered to be present in wet, hot climates as white colored A.fragans are found in cooler climates. Climate is not the only differing factor we see between the two varied betalain A.fragrans, the diurnal and nocturnal pollination patterns is another primary factor we believe pigment variations have influenced and what we plan to evaluate. We hypothesized that the white colored A.fragans will have greater nocturnal visitation during the night due to the moonlight reflecting onto the flower, making it visible for pollinators; the pink colored A.fragrans will have more diurnal pollinators during the day due to the bright color attracting pollinators. To test this, we quantified seed sets separately during day and night periods for both the white and pink A.fragrans. We have not derived our results yet; therefore, there are no conclusions or trends we can infer from our present data.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Seipp, Katelyn	Roberts, Jane Smith, Jenna Franklin, Jennea Dahlman, Alison	Impact of Abnormal Sleep on Socialization Behaviors in Children with Fragile X Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder View Full Text Abstract Text Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a genetic condition caused by a trinucleotide (CGG) repeat expansion in the fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein [JS1.1]1gene and is typically associated with learning and emotional problems (Hagerman & Hagerman, 2002).[FJ2.1] [JS3.1]Approximately 60% of children with FXS are also diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental condition defined by difficulties in social communication and interaction alongside stereotyped and repetitive behavior (Roberts et al., 2020[JS4.1]; Mahdi et al., 2017). Although FXS and ASD share overlapping features, developmental trajectories and behavioral profiles may differ in individuals with FXS versus non-syndromic ASD [JS5.1](nsASD; Abbeduto et al., 2014). Abnormal sleep, however, is highly prevalent in both FXS and nsASD, with 40-80% of children with nsASD experiencing sleep problems, and these sleep problems have been linked to emotional and behavioral regulation difficulties (Budimirović et al., 2021; Cohen et al., 2014). Research[RJ6.1] has also shown that insufficient sleep exacerbates ASD symptoms (e.g., repetitive behaviors, social and communication difficulties; Park et al., 2012). [JS7.1]Yet, no studies have closely studied the connection between abnormal sleep and later socialization outcomes across diagnostic groups. Our study will assess if abnormal sleep at 3 years of age predicts socialization behaviors at 5 years of age in children with FXS (n = 21) compared to children with nsASD (n = 19) and neurotypical controls (NT; n = 24)[JS8.1]. Abnormal sleep and social behaviors will be measured using the Child Sleep Habits Questionnaire and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales—Second Edition, respectively. A regression analysis will be conducted to assess the relationship between abnormal sleep and social behaviors across groups. Based on previous studies, we hypothesize that abnormal sleep will predict socialization behaviors across groups. The findings from this study will help demonstrate the complex relationship between abnormal sleep and social behavior in children with FXS and nsASD.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Washer, Lemon	Jilling, Andi	Linking Soil Health to Soil faunal Diversity Across South Carolina Farms View Full Text Abstract Text Soil health is defined by both the current and future capacity of the soil to function as a vital ecosystem that sustains all matter of life. Within agriculture, a healthy soil is productive (i.e., high-yielding) while also supporting biodiversity and microbial activity. Soil fauna are an overlooked aspect of soil health, despite their prominence in microbial food webs, nutrient cycles, decomposition, bioturbation, aggregate formation, and soil organic matter turnover. Common micro and meso-fauna in agricultural systems include nematodes and arthropods, which will be the focal point of this study. We will evaluate fauna abundance and diversity in soils under perennial or annual crop management as these systems are expected to differ significantly in soil organic matter and physical structure. Perennial systems are minimally disturbed, retain living roots and support more diverse plant communities and micro-habitats – all features that are expected to facilitate soil faunal activity. We have collected soils from three farms in South Carolina and will use an established Berlese-Tullgren funnel method to extract and count the abundance of nematodes and arthropods. We hypothesize that the increase in soil organic matter content will also lead to increased diversity and abundance of soil fauna.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Muhit, Md Abdullah Al	zur Loye, Hans-Conrad	Synthesis and Structural Characterization of Wadsley- Roth Materials: A Multi- Lane Highway for Li+ ion View Full Text Abstract Text Wadsley–Roth compounds arise from crystallographic shear induced by aliovalent cation incorporation into a parent ReO₃-type structure. Owing to their mechanical robustness derived from edge-sharing connectivity and the presence of numerous channels for lithium intercalation, these materials have attracted significant attention as lithium-ion battery anodes. Wadsley- Roth phases are a class of crystallographic shear phases that are composed of small blocks of transition metal oxide polyhedra connected by a combination of edge and corner sharing. These compounds crystallize with different structures containing different block sizes that range from (3 × 3) to (5 × 5). The volatility of the starting materials and the sometimes-metastable character of the target phases are the two main synthetic challenges for making WR compounds. We have successfully synthesized single crystals of several WR compounds, including Nb12MoO33, Nb14Mo3O44, Ta12MoO33, Nb9VO25, using molten flux synthesis. In addition, novel WR compounds having mixed occupancies in the octahedral and tetrahedral sites have also been synthesized in single crystal form. Polycrystalline materials were prepared using the conventional solid-state technique for electrochemical measurements. This poster covers the synthesis of Wadsley- Roth compounds, using molten flux growth as well as conventional solid-state synthesis and the structure determination of different WR compounds by single crystal X- ray diffraction.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Kashem, Habiba Binte	zur Loye, Hans-Conrad	Crystal Chemistry of a Class of Chalcosilicate, and Chalcophosphate Compounds: Investigation of Structural, Magnetic and Optical Properties View Full Text Abstract Text The crystal chemistry of rare-earth-containing chalcosilicates and chalcophosphates is governed by the flexible variable Si–Ch/P–Ch coordination environment, enabling diverse structural motifs ranging from isolated units to extended frameworks. Such flexibility allows systematic tuning of structural distortions and functional properties via cation and anion substitution. Despite their significant potential, the synthesis of these compounds remains challenging due to the extreme sensitivity of rare- earth metals to moisture and oxygen, as well as the limited commercial availability of binary rare-earth chalcogenides. The boron–chalcogen mixture (BCM) method provides a convenient and effective pathway for the synthesis of mixed-metal chalcogenides directly from metal oxide precursors. A series of six quinary rare-earth sulfides of CexEu3-xAySiS7 (A = Na-Cs, Ag, Cu), were synthesized using the BCM flux method. Charge balance is achieved with Ce⁴⁺ and Eu²⁺, consistent with magnetic susceptibility measurements, while alkali-ion size correlates with site occupancy and Ce/Eu–S bond lengths. Concurrently, rare-earth (RE) chalcophosphates have attracted considerable attention as infrared nonlinear optical (NLO) materials. Herein, nine single crystals of quaternary rare-earth containing selenophosphates, RbREP2Se6 (RE = La - Nd, Sm, Ho - Yb) were synthesized using flux assisted boron chalcogen mixture (BCM) method. The compounds crystallize either in the monoclinic space group P2₁/c or the orthorhombic space group P2₁2₁2₁. The compounds exhibited paramagnetic behavior with small negative Weiss constants and excellent second-harmonic generation (SHG) responses.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
McLeod, Emily Page, Claire	Ferguson, Shea Dawes, Molly	The Role of Preparation in Developing Preservice Teachers’ Self-Efficacy for Classroom Management View Full Text Abstract Text Classroom management has important implications for both students (e.g., academic success) and teachers (e.g., teacher well-being) (Duan et al., 2024). However, new teachers often report difficulty managing behaviors in the classroom (Zhang et al., 2025). Prior research (e.g., Lazarides et al., 2020) suggests that teachers' classroom management practices are influenced by their self-efficacy (i.e., confidence). Notably, teachers' self-efficacy in classroom management is often formed early during teacher preparation (Dicke et al., 2014). This is consistent with Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 2001), which highlights the importance of mastery and vicarious experiences in developing self-efficacy. While teacher self-efficacy has been widely studied, less is known about how specific types of preparation during teacher training relate to self-efficacy in classroom management. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to examine preservice teachers’ preparation in aggressive behaviors, proactive strategies for managing behavior, and their self-efficacy for classroom management. We hypothesized that teachers who reported higher preparation would also report higher self-efficacy. Participants included graduating preservice teachers from preparation programs across the United States (N = 241, 96% female, 82% white). Participants completed an online survey, which included measures of preparation in managing aggressive behaviors and proactive strategies for managing behaviors (O’Neill & Stephenson, 2012), as well as self-efficacy for classroom management (Tschannen-Moran & Hoy, 2001). In terms of findings, correlational analyses demonstrated a positive relationship between preparation in aggressive behavior and self-efficacy for classroom management, as well as between preparation in preventative strategies and self-efficacy for classroom management. A multiple linear regression predicting self-efficacy for classroom management revealed preparation in preventative strategies as a statistically significant predictor. Consistent with prior research (Ma et al., 2025), findings from this study emphasize the importance of receiving behavior management coursework in teacher education programs to strengthen preservice teachers' self-efficacy.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Mai, Nora	Ferguson, Shea Dawes, Molly	Can Children Control Their Emotions? Teachers' Beliefs About Emotion Control, Emotion Display, and Emotion Socialization Responses View Full Text Abstract Text Teachers’ responses to children’s emotions have implications for children’s social and emotional development (Denham & Bassett, 2019). This can be understood through Emotion Socialization Theory (Eisenberg et al., 1998), which states that children learn about emotions, including how they should be expressed and managed, through interactions with others, as well as through observing others. Teachers, therefore, have an important role as emotion socializers. Prior research suggests that teachers’ beliefs about emotions likely relate to how they respond to children’s emotions (Ornaghi et al., 2020). However, less research has examined how multiple types of emotion related beliefs relate to teachers’ emotion socialization responses. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to examine teachers’ beliefs about children’s ability to control their emotions (i.e., emotion control beliefs) and their beliefs about the social consequences of displaying negative emotions (i.e., emotion display beliefs) in relation to their emotion socialization responses (i.e., supportive and unsupportive). We hypothesized that higher emotion control beliefs (i.e., belief that children can control their emotions) and higher emotion display beliefs (i.e., beliefs that displaying negative emotions will result in social consequences) would be negatively related to supportive responses and positively related to unsupportive responses. Lastly, we hypothesized that together, these beliefs would predict responses. First-year teachers (N = 140) across the United States completed an online survey on their beliefs about emotions and intended responses to children’s emotions. Correlation analyses will be conducted to examine the relationships between emotion control beliefs, emotion display beliefs, supportive responses, and unsupportive responses. Additionally, a multiple linear regression will be conducted to examine the role of beliefs in predicting responses. Findings from this study have the potential to inform the development of interventions by identifying how two distinct beliefs shape teachers’ responses to children’s emotions.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Fumbi, Savanna	Alvarez, Babet	Obstetric Racism & Black Maternal Health Outcomes View Full Text Abstract Text Black women are 3 to 4 times more likely to die during childbirth than White women, according to the CDC. The rates are relatively as high for Black women who have traumatic birthing experiences as well as preterm delivery. Considering the history of malpractice conducted on Black women in the United States in favor of medical advancement, it is likely that negative attitudes by medical providers, conscious or unconscious, presently impact the quality of care that Black women receive during and after pregnancy. This study is a systematic literature review of both qualitative and quantitative studies conducted within the last twenty years on the relationship between obstetric racism and the adverse maternal health outcomes of Black women. Furthermore, the findings will propose practices to reduce obstetric racism and close the gaps that prevent Black mothers from receiving equitable care. Keywords: Obstetric racism, Black women, maternal health outcomes, maternal mortality, implicit bias, maternal morbidity	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lin, Ashley	Almgren, Michaela	From Tick Bite to Red Meat Allergy: Management of Alpha-Gal Syndrome View Full Text Abstract Text Alpha-gal syndrome is an increasingly prevalent and dangerous tick-associated type of allergy characterized by immunoglobulin E–mediated hypersensitivity to galactose-α-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal). It was once considered a rare syndrome, but it appears to be growing in patient numbers. Depending on the geographic distribution of the Lone Star tick species, its prevalence is more prominent in certain regions such as the southeastern United States. Commonly described as a “red meat allergy,” the condition is triggered by mammalian products containing the alpha-gal molecules, including beef, pork, and lamb, and even certain dairy products. The most common clinical symptoms patients with alpha-gal syndrome may experience include delayed rash, nausea, vomiting, inflammation, and even anaphylaxis. A scoping review of the literature published between 2020 to 2026 was conducted to evaluate current clinical evidence and sources regarding management and potential treatment approaches for this allergy. Electronic databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, were searched using combinations of the keywords “alpha-gal,” “treatment,” “management,” and “cure,” to identify current relevant literature and information. The literature found supports management strategies focused on reducing allergic response in patients suffering from the alpha-gal syndrome, including avoidance of red meat and certain dairy products, and prevention of additional tick bites. While strict avoidance of tick bites and red meat are the main strategies, symptom severity also varies between different individuals. Some patients may experience decreased IgE levels over time with continued avoidance of red meat, while there are other individuals that may develop tolerance towards red meat products over time by gradual introduction of the alpha-gal allergen through a process called desensitization. Given the increasing prevalence and potential life-threatening severity of this syndrome, further research is needed to define optimal treatment strategies and explore the feasibility of potential curative therapies.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Chowdhury, Raziya Sultana	Hoque, Shamia	Plasma-silxoane interaction dynamics in helium and argon DBD plasma View Full Text Abstract Text Volatile methyl siloxanes (VMS) present in biogas and renewable landfill gas cause operational challenges during combustion due to their persistence and formation of siloxane deposits in the industrial exhaust. Cylindrical dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor configuration was used to generate non-thermal plasma for the decomposition of the three VMS compounds: linear octamethyltrisiloxane (L3) and cyclic octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4) and decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) at a constant gas flowrate. Plasma electrical characteristics were analyzed using Lissajous plots and voltage-current (V-I) profiles under helium (He) and argon (Ar) carrier-gas environments. In He-DBD containing VMS, the plasma profile shifted with increasing applied voltage (6.5-13.5kV). At low voltage, DBD reactor behaved primarily as a capacitive load, resulting in low plasma power, and current spikes suggested filamentous micro-discharge. As the driving voltage increased toward 13.5 kV, the slope of the discharge phase increased consistently, approaching the capacitance value of a fully discharged reactor, generating more plasma throughout the whole reaction volume. Phase angle decreased from ̴ 700 to ̴480. This transition occurred more gradually for linear L3 compared to cyclic D4 and D5, highlighting the influence of molecular structure on plasm-siloxane interactions. Changing the carrier gas significantly altered the discharge behavior under similar operating conditions, igniting plasma at 13.5 kV. Helium plasma was smoother and more diffuse with lower current amplitudes, whereas the argon plasma exhibited sharp current spikes, corresponding to localized micro-discharge and oscillatory discharge regimes. These variations strongly influenced the rate of VMS decomposition. Ar-DBD achieved near-complete decomposition of D4, whereas D4 removal efficiency in helium plasma was 60-65%. The enhanced decomposition rate in Ar-DBD is attributed to filamentary micro-discharges, which produce high, localized electron densities capable of direct electron-impact dissociation and ionization of VMS, unlike diffuse plasma in He environments. Additionally, Ar plasma may enhance the surface-assisted decomposition of adsorbed siloxanes on the reactor surface.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Franks, Hannah	Green, Jessica	Motivation on a Budget: How Reward Type and Sustained Attention Improve Auditory Spatial Processing View Full Text Abstract Text In an increasingly distracting world, our capacity to extract relevant information from our environment is crucial. One aspect of our ability to accurately pay attention to our surroundings is sound localization; therefore, investigating potential mechanisms to enhance sound localization remains a valuable area of study. Existing research suggests that using rewards to elicit motivation for attentional tasks may yield invaluable insight. Furthermore, the potential of non-monetary incentives to elicit effects comparable to monetary incentives offers an exciting opportunity for designing cost-effective experiments that reliably motivate behavior change. However, whether monetary rewards are necessary to elicit improvement in behavioral change remains unclear. Additionally, whether reward in general, regardless of type, is an effective method for motivating auditory spatial performance has yet to be explored. The current study investigated the effect of reward on performance in sound source localization (SSL), specifically examining whether reward type and frequency of attentional shifts significantly influenced performance. Through three experiments, we implemented a two-hemifield SSL task in a dark, sound-attenuated chamber, and varied reward type (monetary versus gamified points) and attentional sustainability (long-term versus short-term) across 106 university students. Participants were instructed to localize a beep tone from a random location within either a rewarded or unrewarded hemifield. Experiment 1 employed monetary incentives ($0.05), while Experiments 2A and 2B employed non-monetary rewards (5 points). Reward value was alternated across hemifields once at the halfway mark (Experiments 1 and 2A) or more frequently after each block (Experiment 2B). Across all experiments, reward-associated hemifields, regardless of reward type, elicited improved accuracy and precision. Experiments 1 and 2B revealed significantly slower reaction times, suggesting participants responded cautiously to maximize reward. Overall, these findings suggest that reward improves SSL performance, and that non-monetary rewards can produce effects comparable to monetary incentives when paired with frequent attentional shifts.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Anand, Jiya Ganguru, Chathurvedi	Yang, Chih-Hsiang Lee, Jongwon	A Synthesis of Lifestyle Physical Activity and Cognitive and Physiological Outcomes in Large Longitudinal Cohorts View Full Text Abstract Text Lifestyle activities, including physical activity and sedentary behavior, are essential determinants of health. Databanks such as the UK Biobank provide large longitudinal datasets to study how these determinants correlate with health outcomes over time. To date, there are many studies using UK Biobank data that analyze physical activity and health outcomes. However, these studies often focus on one type of physical activity data or single health outcomes, making it difficult to draw integrated conclusions. No comprehensive synthesis of physical activity studies from UK Biobank currently exists. This project will synthesize the current literature using activity tracker or self-report physical activity from the UK Biobank to study their associations with cognitive and physiological health outcomes. This ongoing systematic review aims to synthesize evidence from peer-reviewed studies using UK Biobank accelerometer-based or self-reported physical activity data to examine associations with cognitive and physiological health outcomes. A search will be run on PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases using predefined keywords and MeSH terms related to UK Biobank and physical activity (ex: accelerometry, exercise, sedentary behavior, lifestyle activities). Eligible studies will include peer-reviewed, original research articles using UK Biobank physical activity data. Reviews, meta-analyses, conference proceedings, protocols, editorials, and other non-peer-reviewed publications will be excluded. Two reviewers will independently screen all identified records, with disagreements resolved by the PI. The protocol will be registered in PROSPERO. We will extract information on how physical activity was measured (accelerometer-based or self-reported), the type of health outcomes assessed, and the reported direction and strength of associations. This project will benefit the field of exercise science by combining current knowledge from the UK Biobank data on lifestyle physical activity and various cognitive and physiological health outcomes. The review will integrate key findings, clarify patterns and trends, and guide future research using the UK Biobank data.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Soda, Sean Nomm, Kaeden	Berry, Hala Yongue, Zane	Integrating Blockchain Technology into RFID Middleware for Intrusion Detection View Full Text Abstract Text With the increased development of RFID technology, it has seen widespread usage within supply chain management within the commercial sector. This increased adoption of RFID has led to more possible attack vectors that can disrupt the systems that rely on RFID. Most research has put a focus on upholding the security of the RFID tags themselves but have overlooked the middleware that stores such events. This oversight has left the middleware vulnerable to attack vectors such as SQL injections via the tags to manipulate the data stored. The rise of blockchain integration has allowed the ability to create an immutable digital ledger that maintains the integrity of the stored data. The purpose of this research is to integrate blockchain technology with RFID based systems. To further verify the integrity of both the blockchain and database a LLM will be integrated. The LLM will monitor and analyze both systems for discrepancies to maintain data integrity. After completion, we successfully integrated a script that was able to conduct an automated audit on the blockchain and database to verify if the batch was altered. From there the LLM was able to analyze the mismatched batch and correctly determine where the discrepancy was located. This proves that integrating blockchain technology with the assistance of an LLM can be used for intrusion detection in RFID based middleware for supply chain management systems.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Zheng, Mark	Downey, Austin	Multicamera 3D Localization of UAV-based EPM Sensor Package Deployment View Full Text Abstract Text Infrastructure in the United States have continued to increase in age, often well past their intended design, including bridges. Structural health monitoring (SHM) provides a long-term solution to remotely monitor infrastructure using sensors that measure changes when under load. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have increased in prevalence to assess structural integrity. This project aims to improve upon the use of UAVs for SHM by building upon existing progress in creating object-tracking algorithms to visually track UAVs with external cameras as they move across space. Tracking of UAVs will provide data to guide flight as drones dock sensor packages, typically including an accelerometer and electro-permanent magnet attaching to a metallic section of a bridge for SHM. Multi-camera systems represent the proposed approach. Dual color cameras are posi-tioned to the left and right of the proposed docking zone, angled at a 90-degree field-of-view (FOV) intersection. Dual monochrome cameras are placed at ground-level, following the same FOV intersection, but facing upwards towards the intended docking zone. Lastly, an additional monochrome camera is placed at an off-axis location for an additional view of the UAV docking process. Multiple sensor-docking flights are recorded, where frames are selected at given intervals and coordinate location of the UAV is labeled in the process. Eighty percent of frames represent the training dataset for an open-source object detection algorithm known as You Only Look Once (YOLO), while 20 percent of frames are used for verification of the algorithm. Existing data consisting of a two-camera setup have shown results with low error rates of UAV location. Additional monochrome cameras allow for continued improvement of detection accuracy across different UAV environments. Fur-thermore, data from this project can estimate critical flight characteristics, which can be applied to autonomous flight control and sensor docking.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Siciliano, Sophia	Twiss, Jeff Matoo, Samaneh	REG3A to KHSRP Signaling Restricts CNS Axon Regeneration View Full Text Abstract Text Unlike in the PNS, neurons of the CNS have a limited ability to regenerate, restricting functional recovery after injury. PNS regeneration is supported in part by localized mRNA translation that enables local synthesis of growth-promoting proteins. Evidence shows that the CNS axons also contain mRNAs and synthesize proteins. We previously reported that in the PNS, RNA-binding protein KHSRP is locally translated in injured axons, where regeneration decreases by promoting mRNA decay. Although KHSRP translation is initially triggered by an injury-induced axoplasmic influx of calcium, KHSRP levels remain elevated after calcium levels normalize. Suggesting a mechanism exists to sustain axonal KHSRP synthesis. We have shown that REG3A protein increases axoplasmic calcium and recombinant REG3A (recREG3A), which increases axonal KHSRP, inhibiting axon growth in DRG cultures. Depletion of endogenous REG3A decreases axoplasmic calcium, increases axon growth, and nerve regeneration in the PNS. Using optic nerve (ON) crush for the CNS we find upregulation of Reg3a mRNA increases REG3A and KHSRP proteins in the injured ON. To test whether REG3A decreases CNS regeneration, we injected AAV2-shReg3a-BFP and shCntl-BFP intravitreally to target retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Depletion of Reg3a increases axon regeneration after ON crush and increases RGC survival. CNS growth inhibitory substrates increase axoplasmic calcium and KHSRP levels. Depletion of REG3A allows axonal growth and prevents the increase in KHSRP when cultured on CNS growth-inhibitory substrates in cortical and DRG neurons. This shows that REG3A–KHSRP signaling limits CNS axon regeneration and likely enhances neuronal sensitivity to growth-inhibitory substrates. Sophia Siciliano1, Samaneh Matoo1, Jinyoung Lee1, Courtney N. Buchanan1, Lauren S. Vaughn1, Jeffery L. Twiss1,2 1.Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia SC 29208 USA 2.Carolina Autism and Neurodevelopment Research Center, University of South Carolina, Columbia SC 29208 USA	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Wilson, Marguerite	Almor, Amit Wilson, Sarah	Analyzing Leader-Follower Dynamics in Task-Oriented Dialogue through Linguistic Alignment View Full Text Abstract Text Linguistic alignment – the tendency for conversational partners to converge in their word choice and sentence structure – facilitates shared understanding and collaborative success (Pickering & Garrod, 2004; Duran et al., 2019, 2024; Friedberg et al., 2012). Alignment is often attributed to automatic priming mechanisms operating across linguistic levels (Pickering & Garrod, 2004, 2009), though communicative goals and social dynamics may also shape coordination (Duran & Fusaroli, 2017). One such dynamic is emergent leadership, in which influence arises organically within peer interaction rather than through formal assignment (Schneier & Goktepe, 1983). There are many deterministic factors in emergent leadership. Verbal participation, personality typing, and word choice has been associated with leadership status (Sorrentino & Boutillier, 1975; Stein & Heller, 1983). This project investigates how expanded measures of emergent leadership relate to lexical and syntactic alignment in collaborative problem-solving. Participants, who were native speakers of English with no self-reported language disorders, completed a “spot-the-differences” task requiring verbal collaboration to identify differences between pairs of images (Baker & Hazan, 2011; Van Engen et al., 2010). The dialogues were audio-recorded and transcription using Whisper (OpenAI) with human verification is ongoing. Linguistic alignment will be quantified using the ALIGN library (Duran et al., 2019), which computes cosine similarity values of lexical (word) and syntactic (phrase/sentence structure) overlap on a turn-by-turn basis (Duran et al., 2019, 2024). Emergent leadership will be computed using dialogue-derived indicators, including participation patterns and interactional structure. Clarifying how leadership dynamics relate to lexical and syntactic alignment will further specify the cognitive and social mechanisms underlying successful collaborative problem-solving.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Bartholomew, Zoey Johnson, Ella	Delay, Cara	Physical and Emotional Experiences After Abortion in the Post-Dobbs US Southeast View Full Text Abstract Text Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization (2022) overturned almost 50 years of precedent set by Roe v. Wade (1973). This left abortion care laws to be up to individual states. Majority of states in the Southeastern United States (Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee), have since put restrictive abortion bans in place. This has left reproductive care options in these areas scarce with many clinics closing and providers hesitant to provide care. As a result, many women must travel to access either surgical or medication abortion. This article examines abortion experience of women in the Southeastern U.S. post Dobbs. Data was collected using an online mixed methods approach collecting demographics, abortion method and who it was prescribed by, and the cost of the experience. Participants were asked questions regarding the location they lived in with proximity to where the abortion took place. Qualitative data inquiring about experience of pain and emotions was collected through extended response questions. There were 138 participants and the majority of them received medication abortions over surgical procedures. Almost ⅓ of participants had to travel to another state to receive care. Participants reported both pain and bleeding associated with their experience. However, those who travel for care reported more negative emotions surrounding the bleeding and pain. Another notable outcome was that those who felt isolated by the experience had more negative experience and emotions than those with support systems. This study revealed implications of travel associated abortion pain. In the future, lawmakers should take this into consideration before enacting anti-abortion laws. Additionally, education efforts for patients to understand their options should be easier to access.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Ghasemi, Mahtab	McInnes, Campbell	Design and Synthesis of peptides as Inhibitors of Cyclin F: A Therapeutic Target in Cancer View Full Text Abstract Text Background Cyclin F is a unique cell cycle regulator belonging to the F-box protein family. Unlike canonical cyclins, Cyclin F does not associate with CDKs; instead, it functions as the substrate recognition component of the SCF (Skp1–Cullin1–F-box) E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, directing specific proteins for ubiquitination and subsequent proteasomal degradation. Dysregulation of the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) has been implicated in the development and progression of several malignancies, including breast, hepatocellular, lung, renal, pancreatic cancers, and familial Hodgkin lymphoma. These observations suggest that Cyclin F may represent both a prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target. However, strategies to directly interfere with Cyclin F–substrate interactions remain underexplored. Methods To disrupt Cyclin F substrate recognition, we designed a series of linear and cyclic peptides that mimic key structural elements of the E2F1 interaction motif. Peptides were synthesized using solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) and purified by chromatographic methods. Structural modification through cyclization was employed to enhance conformational stability. Peptide identity and purity were confirmed by analytical HPLC and mass spectrometry. Future studies will evaluate binding interactions using biochemical assays and computational modeling, followed by functional assessment in relevant cancer cell lines. Results Multiple linear and cyclic peptide analogs were successfully synthesized and obtained in high purity. Cyclization approaches were implemented to introduce conformational constraint and improve structural stability. Analytical characterization confirmed the expected molecular weights and high purity profiles for all synthesized compounds. These results establish a reliable synthetic platform for further biological investigation. Conclusions This work demonstrates the successful design and synthesis of peptide scaffolds targeting Cyclin F substrate recognition. The successful design and preparation of structurally constrained peptide scaffolds provide a foundation for future biochemical and cellular evaluation of Cyclin F inhibition.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Turner, Bailey	O'Reilly, Christian	A Systematic Review of Machine Learning Techniques for Biosignal Analysis View Full Text Abstract Text Biosignals such as electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG), and electrocardiography (ECG) are integral tools in neuroscience and biomedical research. In particular, biosignals such as electrodermal activity (EDA), respiration, and heart rate variability (HRV) derived from ECG are often used to analyze the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which regulates involuntary functions essential for survival. Understanding the ANS is important because it reflects the body's ability to maintain homeostasis and adapt to physiological and emotional demands. However, the fragmentation of literature across disciplines, biosignal types, and methodological frameworks has caused confusion among researchers. This project aims to write a systematic review synthesizing state-of-the-art machine learning (ML) methods from the last 5 years to clarify which approaches are the most effective for biosignal analysis. This project follows PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. An integrated search was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus, using keywords and MeSH terms such as machine learning, signal processing, biosignals, and autonomic nervous system. The search resulted in 1,108 unique studies after duplication removal and screening through Covidence left 414 papers for full-text review and 83 for final extraction. Evaluation variables include F-1 scores, accuracy, specificity, sensitivity measures for classification studies, and R2 for regression studies. Anticipated results include a comparative evaluation of which machine learning techniques were most effective across different kinds of autonomic biosignals, the identification of research gaps, and directions for future studies. This project ultimately aims to identify the best ML techniques for biosignal analysis to help researchers more easily identify appropriate techniques for their work and make computational methods more accessible to all research fields involving biosignal analysis.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Sodiya, Dorcas	Walters, Wendell	Nitrogen Isotopic Characterization of Gas-Phase Ammonia and Particulate Ammonium in Size-Segregated Aerosols at the Eastern North Atlantic View Full Text Abstract Text Cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) in the remote Eastern North Atlantic (ENA) plays a critical role in modulating cloud properties and radiative forcing. Among the key chemical contributors to CCN is ammonium (pNH4), which originates from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Gas-phase ammonia (NH3) and its subsequent conversion to pNH4 are essential processes in new particle formation and aerosol growth, yet the relative contributions from oceanic emissions versus long-range transported pollution remain poorly constrained. As part of the ENA atmospheric observatory campaign on Graciosa Island, Azores, we collected both gas-phase NH3 and particulate NH4+ across size-segregated aerosol samples. To accurately quantify the nitrogen isotopic composition (δ15N) of these species, we developed and optimized new chemical and preparative methods tailored to the complex ENA matrix. These include cation-exchange resin purification, microdiffusion separation, and chemical conversion of NH4+ to N2O via oxidation to NO2- followed by azide reduction, overcoming key limitations of previously established methods for ammonium isotope analysis. The resulting δ15N measurements provide robust constraints on the sources and processing of atmospheric ammonium in the marine boundary layer. Our findings delineate the contrasting roles of oceanic emissions and anthropogenic influences in controlling ammonium levels, and their contributions to CCN formation. This work enhances our understanding of nitrogen cycling and aerosol-cloud interactions in remote marine environments, with implications for climate modeling and source attribution studies.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Argueta, Lisette	Coleman-Rochester, Tegia	A Home Away From Home: The Latino Predominantly White Institution (PWI) Experience View Full Text Abstract Text Latino college students at predominantly white institutions (PWIs) often face challenges with cultural identity, inclusion, and belonging, which can affect their academic performance and overall well-being. This study aims to explore how the Trump Administration’s rollback and elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programming and funding at PWIs impact the experience of Latino students on campus. The research seeks to understand the extent to which institutional diversity efforts contribute to fostering environments where Latino students feel welcomed, supported, and meaningfully connected. Qualitative methods such as surveys and interviews will be used and conducted for this study. Findings are expected to demonstrate that students engaged in diversity programs will report a stronger sense of inclusion, belonging, connection, and overall campus community support. The results aim to highlight the importance of DEI initiatives and offer recommendations to improve support systems for Latinos, promoting greater equity and inclusion across higher education institutions. Keywords: Belonging, Sense of Belonging, Predominantly White Institutions, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Latino College Student	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Walkup, Virginia	Wilson, Kiesha	Investigating the Therapeutic Effects of Phytosphingosine in SEB-Induced Inflammation in splenocytes and macrophages of Mice View Full Text Abstract Text Background: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe inflammatory lung condition driven by a cytokine storm that disrupts normal alveolar gas exchange. It is commonly found in intensive care patients, and has a mortality rate of about 40%. Macrophages are essential for resolving inflammation through phagocytosis, while also contributing to extracellular matrix remodeling and the promotion of angiogenesis. Current ARDS management relies on supportive strategies with no established pharmaceutical therapies. Staphylococcus enterotoxin B (SEB) is a potent superantigen secreted by Staphylococcus aureus that triggers excessive immune activation, mimicking the cytokine storm. Phytosphingosine (PHS) is a sphingolipid that can be found in the outermost layer of the skin and plays a role in barrier defense and exhibits anti-microbial properties. Given the known inflammatory response in ARDS, this study aims to investigate the impact of Phytosphingosine as a therapy to suppress activation of cytokine storm and establish protective mechanisms against oxidation and ferroptosis. Methods: Splenocytes harvested from C57BL/6 mice and RAW264.7 macropahges will be seeded into a plate and treated with SEB. PHS will then be added to the treatment groups, and immune cell populations will be evaluated using qPCR and Flow cytometry. ELISA will be used to assess cytokine levels. Results: Preliminary data suggest that PHS treatment of SEB-activated splenocytes leads to the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and IL-1β, while also enhancing cell survival pathways. The increased expression of Ccl17 suggests that PHS may play a role in cell repair, and the increased expression of GPX4 and HMOX-1. Suggesting that PHS may also have a role in protection against oxidative stress. Conclusions: These results suggest that PHS may contribute to the mitigation of cytokine storms and support antioxidant defense and repair in inflamed cells therefore, making this sphingolipid a promising treatment for the cytokine storm.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Bishop, Andrew Sosa, Adriel	Strohmier, Hala	Bluetooth Low Energy Communication Security in Wearable IoT Devices: A Fitbit Sense 2 Case Study View Full Text Abstract Text Wearable devices have become an integral component of the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, continuously collecting and transmitting sensitive biometric and personal data through wireless communication protocols. Many of these devices rely on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to enable energy-efficient communication between wearable sensors, smartphones, and cloud services. Despite its widespread adoption, concerns remain regarding the security and privacy of BLE communications within wearable IoT systems. This study presents an experimental security assessment of BLE communications in the Fitbit Sense 2 wearable device. A controlled penetration testing environment was established using Kali Linux, Ubertooth One, and Wireshark to analyze BLE packet transmissions and broadcast behavior under both normal and anomalous connection conditions. The experiments evaluated the visibility of transmitted packets and the effectiveness of previously reported GATT fingerprinting techniques used to identify BLE traffic. Results indicate that recent firmware updates have improved resistance to traditional packet sniffing techniques through enhanced packet obfuscation and reduced broadcast fingerprint visibility. However, the experiments also revealed an anomalous persistent connection behavior in which the device continues to receive notifications despite appearing disconnected from the host smartphone, potentially exposing user data without clear user awareness. These findings highlight both the progress and remaining challenges in securing BLE communications within wearable IoT devices and underscore the need for further investigation of communication protocol behaviors that may impact user privacy and system security.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Sawhney, Sifat	Shinkareva, Svetlana Oh, Sewon	The Impact of Emotional Authenticity on Facial Fixation Patterns: An Eye-Tracking Study View Full Text Abstract Text Emotional authenticity reflects the alignment between one’s expressed emotions and the emotions felt internally. Understanding how individuals discern between genuine and disingenuous emotions is critical to effective social interactions. In everyday life, people hide their true emotions through subtle changes in facial expressions, making authenticity difficult to detect. We investigated how visual attention is distributed across facial regions when individuals process authentic versus inauthentic happy and sad emotional expressions using eye-tracking technology. Prior research suggests people look at the eyebrows, eyes, and mouth while trying to discern emotional expressions. This study focuses on these regions in happy and sad expressions, two affective states with distinguishable facial cues. We hypothesized that authentic happy expressions would elicit greater fixation in the lower facial region whereas inauthentic happy expressions would result in increased fixation towards the upper facial region. It was also hypothesized that authentic sad expressions would produce a more balanced fixation distribution where inauthentic sad expressions would drive increased fixation in the upper facial region. To test these hypotheses, 87 female participants viewed facial expressions across four conditions: authentic happy, inauthentic happy, authentic sad, and inauthentic sad. The experiment consisted of two blocks in which participants categorized whether each facial expression was authentic or inauthentic in one block and happy or sad in another. Each stimulus was presented for 2–5 seconds, after which participants made their judgement and rated intensity of their choice on a 4-point scale. Using silent videos expressing facial emotions, participants made judgements based solely on visual cues. Fixation count and duration were analyzed comparing upper and lower facial regions as a function of authenticity separated by emotion using repeated measures ANOVAs. By examining fixation patterns across facial regions, this study aims to deepen understanding of how emotional authenticity and valance guide visual attention during emotion perception.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Lutz, Hanna	Lee, Junsoo	Finite Time High Precision Control of Robotic Arm Manipulator View Full Text Abstract Text In dynamical systems theory, asymptotic and exponential control aim to drive system trajectories to a desired state over an infinite time horizon. However, in high-precision applications, control objectives must be achieved within a finite time window with minimal error. Finite-time control (FTC) ensures convergence to the desired state within a predefined time frame while maintaining stability and minimizing error. While rigorous analysis of finite-time control using sliding mode controllers and Lyapunov theory has been extensively studied, a significant gap remains in bridging continuous-time and discrete-time finite-time control. When the FTC framework is applied to discrete-time systems—where practical controllers are designed—some of its benefits are lost due to discrepancies between continuous-time and discrete-time dynamics. Recent efforts, including implicit discretization methods for FTC, have been proposed to address this gap. The objective of this project is to develop an implicit FTC framework for precision robotics applications. The focus of this research is on bridging the gap between continuous-time and discrete-time systems, where the finite-time property is often lost in the discrete domain. Specifically, the project evaluates the effectiveness of implicit FTC methods in reducing the chattering effect and improving convergence bounds, leading to minimal error. Validations are being conducted through simulations for robotic arm control. Additionally, a robotic arm testbed is being developed to further test and demonstrate the proposed methods in a real-world setting.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Richard, Christian	Ma, Ting Fung Harris, Dominique	Mapping Change: Analyzing the Dynamics of International Connections View Full Text Abstract Text This research explores how relationships between countries evolve over time using multi-year interaction data. By constructing year-over-year models with rolling time windows, the study captures how patterns of cooperation, influence, and connectivity shift across different periods. The objective was to identify meaningful structures within complex global interactions and understand how those structures change over time. To analyze these patterns, I built interaction matrices that quantified relationships between countries and applied network modeling techniques to map how those relationships were connected. I then used clustering methods to group countries with similar interaction patterns, allowing for the identification of emerging alliances or structural similarities. Validation techniques were incorporated to ensure that identified groupings were statistically meaningful rather than driven by random fluctuations in the data. In addition, I examined how broader communities of countries formed and reorganized over multiple time scales. This made it possible to observe not only which countries were closely connected, but also how larger geopolitical groupings strengthened, weakened, or shifted. Overall, the findings show that global interaction patterns are dynamic and continually evolving. By combining network modeling with careful validation, this research provides a structured and data-driven approach to understanding complex international systems and long-term geopolitical trends.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Campagna, Collan	Osbaldiston, Richard	Stress and sleep paralysis: A literature review using new AI-based tools View Full Text Abstract Text Roughly 25% of students experience sleep paralysis. To what extent is stress related to sleep paralysis? To answer this question, we used six different literature search tools, including two traditional tools (PsycInfo and Google Scholar) and four new AI-based tools (Semantic Scholar, Consensus, Primo Research Assistant, and Elicit). We evaluated the tools to determine which were most efficient at finding relevant studies. Our answer to the research question is that stress is only minimally correlated with sleep paralysis.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Joyner, Daniel	Foster, Dan	Muscarinic M4 Receptor Modulation Confers Antipsychotic-Like Efficacy Through Mechanisms Independent of Striatal Dopamine Release View Full Text Abstract Text Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder characterized by many symptoms including positive (hallucinations), negative (social withdrawal), and cognitive symptoms. The dopamine (DA) hypothesis of schizophrenia posits that DA hyperactivity in the dorsal striatum underlies positive symptoms of the disorder. However, antipsychotics targeting DA receptors exhibit numerous side effects and seldom address cognitive and negative symptoms. Thus, the need for novel pharmacotherapeutics is immense. The first antipsychotic targeting acetylcholine muscarinic receptors (mAChRs) was recently FDA approved. While preclinical studies implicate the M4 mAChR as key to muscarinic antipsychotic efficacy, the precise mechanism(s) remain unclear. In striatal brain slice studies, mAChR agonists attenuate DA release, an effect enhanced by an M4 positive allosteric modulator (PAM). Meanwhile, animal studies show that M4 PAMs alone can attenuate amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion (AHL) in rodents, a common assay testing antipsychotic-like efficacy. Given this, we utilized fiber photometry approaches to test the hypothesis that the antipsychotic-like efficacy of M4 PAM VU0467154 (VU’154) is mediated via reducing striatal DA transmission. We completed a VU’154 dose response in awake behaving mice to assess its effects on spontaneous striatal DA transmission. Utilizing a within-subjects design, fiber photometry recordings of DA signaling were collected following VU’154 administration. Results indicate that VU’154 significantly inhibits spontaneous DA release amplitudes in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, we utilized the AHL assay in combination with fiber photometry to observe VU’154-mediated effects on locomotion and concurrent striatal DA levels. Consistent with previous studies, VU’154 pretreatment robustly attenuated hyperlocomotion, surprisingly however, amphetamine-induced DA release was not inhibited but significantly potentiated. These results suggest that the antipsychotic-like effects of VU’154 are independent of effects on striatal DA release. These studies provide critical insights into the potential mechanism of action whereby muscarinic drugs mediate antipsychotic efficacy. Future studies will assess post-synaptic mechanisms to determine those mediating these antipsychotic-like effects.	1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level)
Batson, Emma	LoPresti, Eric	Patterns of Tympanal Ear Mite Parasitism in Noctuid Moths: Evidence for Sex-Biased Infestation View Full Text Abstract Text My thesis investigates host-parasite dynamics between noctuid moths and their highly specialized parasitic tympanal ear mites (Dicrocheles phalaenodectes and D. scedastes). These mites live and reproduce totally within the auditory organs of their host moths, a rare example of highly specialized organ-specific parasitism. Despite decades of foundational work by A.E. Treat documenting mite behavior and host specificity, many of the drivers of variation in infestation among individual moths remain unknown. My project examines patterns of infestation prevalence in noctuid moth specimens, with a particular focus on whether infestation is sex-biased. It is suspected that mites disperse via flowers visited by feeding moths; differences in nectar-feeding behavior between males and females may influence their risk of exposure and rate of infestation. Understanding and predicting these patterns is critical because infestation of the tympanal organ may impair hearing and therefore predator detection. This potentially alters host survival, reproduction, and a cascade of ecological interactions. By quantifying infestation patterns and exploring drivers of intraspecific variation in prevalence, this study contributes foundational ecological insight to a uniquely specialized parasite system.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Kapoor, Shriya	Merchant, Anwar	Assessing Nutritional Needs and Food Access Among Uninsured Free-Clinic Patients in Columbia, South Carolina View Full Text Abstract Text Chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity remain among the most prevalent and preventable health conditions in the United States. Nutrition plays a critical role in preventing and managing these conditions, yet many individuals face barriers to maintaining healthy dietary habits. These challenges are particularly pronounced among uninsured adults, who often rely on free and reduced-cost clinics for healthcare services. South Carolina experiences some of the highest rates of food insecurity and chronic disease in the nation, yet limited research has examined the nutrition-related needs of uninsured adults within this region. This study explored the nutritional needs, barriers, and interests of uninsured adults receiving care at free and reduced-cost clinics in Columbia, South Carolina. An anonymous survey-based needs assessment was conducted among adult patients across multiple free clinic sites in Columbia. Data were collected in person over a two-month period. The survey gathered information on demographics, chronic illness history, food access and food insecurity, dietary habits, nutrition literacy, and interest in potential nutrition-related interventions. By identifying common barriers to healthy eating and understanding patient preferences for nutrition support, this study aimed to provide a foundation for community-centered nutrition initiatives within clinic settings. The findings inform practical, low-cost strategies, such as culturally relevant nutrition education materials, cooking classes, and clinic-based nutrition programs designed to support long-term health among underserved populations.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)
Spina, Andersen	Lee, Junsoo	Will add later View Full Text Abstract Text Small yet capable UAVs have become increasingly vital in both civil and military applications. The Russo-Ukrainian War exemplifies this trend, with both sides deploying large numbers of small UAVs for reconnaissance, surveillance, and strikes. This strategy enables rapid, low-cost deployment, replacing traditional high-cost aerial assets. However, a significant limitation of these drones is their restricted range and endurance. A portable launcher capable of deploying UAVs from any location could greatly extend their operational range and endurance by conserving the energy required for takeoff, which accounts for a substantial portion of power consumption. Additionally, such a system would enable fast and flexible launches, enhancing UAV effectiveness and adaptability, such as allowing completely vertical launches in crowded environments such as forests and urban areas. Recognizing these advantages, several UAV launcher systems have been developed for military applications. The AeroVironment Switchblade 300 Block 20, for example, utilizes a compact 7.2 lb (3.27 kg) launcher with a two-minute setup time and provides approximately 20 minutes of endurance. However, these systems rely on complex mechanisms, such as miniature rocket boosters or compressed gas propulsion, leading to high costs—estimated $53,000 for the AeroVironment Switchblade 300 Block 20, making them impossible for diverse applications other than military use. This project aims to develop a human-mounted fixed-wing UAV launcher with a simple, cost-effective design. We have created concept designs and are in the process of finalizing a hardware testbed for a launcher platform utilizing a flywheel-based propulsion system to achieve affordable, rapid, and efficient UAV deployment. This launch platform will be powered by a lithium polymer battery connected to brushless motors driving compliant flywheels along with high torque servo motors driving the push flap.	9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level)