POSTER PRESENTATIONS
10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Graduate Students - 2nd Floor Lobby
Undergraduate Students - 3rd Floor Lobby
Bawcom Student Union Building
14. Addressing Rural Education Challenges to Bridge Literacy and Achievement Gaps
Category: Education
Author(s): Lueella Shelton
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. George Willey
Description: This study examines the challenges faced by a rural high school, including socioeconomic disparities, limited teacher qualifications, and literacy deficits, all of which significantly impact student learning. Targeted interventions, such as intensive vocabulary instruction and the use of digital tools, are designed to enhance science literacy, comprehension, and academic performance. The findings aim to inform strategies for addressing these gaps, promoting educational equity, and improving outcomes for underserved student populations.
15. A Study of The Readability of the STAAR
Category: Education
Author(s): Norma Wheeler
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jodi Pilgrim
Description: This study examines the readability of the STAAR test using online readability algorithms, including the Fry Readability Formula. Data sources will include the 2023 and 2024 released STAAR for grades 3, 4, and 5. Data analysis will include a report of the readability data and appropriateness of the tests.
16. Association of Urinary Incontinence and Landing Forces in Nulliparous Athletes
Category: Exercise and Sport Science
Author(s): Nikolas Keratsopoulos, Jaci Kelly, Kindyle Brennan, Peggie Williamson, Laurel Proulx, Mandy Parra
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mandy Parra
Description: Pelvic floor research is becoming more prevalent in college athletics to better monitor pelvic floor health in athletes who undergo high impact forces that potentially cause incontinence, pain, or prolapse. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between jump metrics and incontinence in acrobatics and tumbling athletes.
17. Relationship of Hip Range of Motion and Peak Braking Force in DIII Female Athletes
Category: Exercise and Sport Science
Author(s): Jayden Widener, Katyanna Colburn, Nikolas Keratsopoulos, Jaci Kelly, Kindyle Brennan, Peggie Williamson
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mandy Parra
Description: The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between hip range of motion (ROM) and peak braking forces in female Division III acrobatic and tumbling athletes. Findings suggest increased hip ROM correlates with higher braking forces, potentially linking lower extremity mechanics to pelvic floor dysfunction.
18. Sex-Related Differences in Vertical Jump Height and Reactive
Strength Index in Jumping Sports
Category: Exercise and Sport Science
Author(s): Mathis Rollin, Nikolas Keratsopoulos, Cole Strickland, Dimitrije Cabarkapa, Jaci Kelly, Mandy Parra, Jesse Mala
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jesse Mala
Description: Vertical jump performance and reactive strength index are key performance indicators for athletic performance. This research aimed to investigate sex-related differences in vertical jump height and reactive strength index in jumping sports. These differences could aid strength and conditioning professionals with potential adaptations needed for sex-related sport performance.
19. Interrater Agreement of Novel Inertial Measurement Unit
Devices Placed Bilaterally in Assessing Jump Performance
Category: Exercise and Sport Science
Author(s): Cole Strickland, Mathis Rollin, Nikolas Keratsopoulos, Jaci Kelly, Dimitrije Cabarkapa, Mandy Parra
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mandy Parra
Description: Force plates are considered the “gold standard” for jump testing but may be impractical for strength and conditioning professionals. Inertial measurement units (IMU) are becoming popular among professionals in assessing jump performance. This study aimed to investigate the interrater reliability of a novel IMU device placed bilaterally.
20. Framing NCAA Communication: Michigan Sign-Stealing vs. USC Bush Scandal
Category: Exercise and Sport Science
Author(s): Jamison Wylie
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito
Description: This study applies framing theory to analyze NCAA communication during the Michigan sign-stealing scandal and Reggie Bush’s improper benefits case. By examining media statements and narratives, this research evaluates how the NCAA framed each of these cases and assesses the consistency of their communication strategies.
21. Faith Service Balance: Preventing Burnout
Category: Exercise and Sport Science
Author(s): Nicholas McElroy
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Cecilia Wharton Erlund
Description: Review of Literature covering burnout caused by lack of balance in life activities related to visions of service and faith.
22. Muscle Quality and Vertical Jump Height Correlation in Division III Female Volleyball Players
Category: Exercise and Sport Science
Author(s): Avery Gray, Mathis Rollin, Brandie Cheshier, McKenzie Cano, Jaci Kelly, Mandy Parra
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Brandie Cheshier
Description: Vertical jump height (JH) is accepted as a measurement of lower body power. There is a lack of information on the relationship between lower body power and muscle quality (MQ). Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the contractile area of the vastus lateralis and JH in collegiate volleyball athletes.
23. Relationship Between Handgrip and Isometric Shoulder
Strength in Division III Collegiate Pitchers: a Pilot Study
Category: Exercise and Sport Science
Author(s): Bennett Seal, Nikolas Keratsopoulos, Jaci Kelly, Mandy Parra
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mandy Parra
Description: Isometric internal (IR) and external (ER) rotation have traditionally been used as predictors of overall shoulder health in pitchers. Dynamometers are large and need a great deal of skill to be used. Field-based methods for assessing shoulder health are needed for pre-post-game and intra-inning fatigue assessment to mitigate injury.
24. Clickbait vs. Credibility: Analyzing Media Narratives in the Deflategate Scandal.
Category: Exercise and Sport Science
Author(s): Tyler Woods
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito
Description: This study examines how social media headlines influenced engagement and public perception of Tom Brady's Deflategate scandal. Analyzing likes, shares, and comments, it explores how media outlets shaped audience interaction and discussion, using framing theory to evaluate the impact of headline strategies on viewer engagement and discourse.
25. “Seduction & Survival: The Temptress Women in Cervantes
Literary Works”
Category: Humanities
Author(s): Raquel Baker
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Rubi Ugofsky-Mendez
Description: Our poster will demonstrate gender inequality in Cervantes’ works through feminist theory, we can apply key feminist concepts such as patriarchy, the male gaze, and agency to analyze how women in his literature navigate social constraints.
26. The Advantages of Vitamin B5, Pantothenic Acid
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Amber Phillips
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: Vitamin B5, pantothenic acid, is one of eight B vitamins. Pantothenic acid supports metabolism, the digestive system, and hair and skin quality. There are many sources of this vitamin in the average American's diet, so supplements are not usually needed.
27. A Comparative Analysis of Chlorophyll Concentration in Spinach
Samples Using Visible Spectroscopy.
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Amber Dickey
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: This study utilized visible spectroscopy to analyze the concentration of chlorophyll present in spinach. The research focused on how different methods of packaging spinach, such as canned frozen or fresh, and preparing spinach affect the concentration of chlorophyll present
28. The Impact of Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) in Sports Drinks on Athlete Performance and Efficiency
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Emmanuel Diaz
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: This project examines the impact of Vitamin B12 in sports drinks on athletic performance and efficiency. It explores how B12 affects energy production, endurance, and recovery. By analyzing its role in metabolism and muscle function, the study aims to determine its effectiveness in enhancing athletic performance and overall physical efficiency.
29.. The Science & Reasoning Behind Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
Fortification and Its Positive Effects
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Derek Gispert
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: A closer look at the discovery of vitamin B9’s positive effects on birth defects outcomes, the reasoning why (scientific evidence) and the lasting impacts of forced or voluntary folic acid fortification programs in countries around the world on the rates of NTDs (neural tube birth defects).
30. Synthesis of Vitamin B3 (Niacin or Nicotinic Acid) Derivatives for Skin Health and Cancer Prevention
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Julia Jurewicz
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: This literature review discusses methods for the efficient synthesis of niacin, also known as nicotinic acid, nicotinamide, and niacinamide. Additionally, it examines preexisting research regarding the potential of these derivatives in preventing inflammation associated with certain skin disorders, and reducing risk for non-melanoma skin cancers.
31. Riboflavin in Photochemistry
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Alejandro Sanchez
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: Vitamin B2 is involved in photochemical reactions due to its ability to absorb light. This is an investigative project on how riboflavin interacts with light and its possible implications for its role in biological systems.
32. A Physicochemical Investigation of Major League Baseball Composition
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Shane Melick
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: This study investigates the composition of Major League Baseball (MLB) authenticated baseballs from the 2024 regular season and the 2022 Home Run DerbyTM. Properties investigated include mass, circumference, diameter, volume, density, seam height, and coefficient of restitution, as well as the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy of the yarn.
33. Impact of Caffeine Intake on Drosophila melanogaster
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Amy Perez, Ava Reid
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Seena Mathew
Description: This study explores the complex relationship between caffeine intake on various organisms, specifically focusing on the impact on Drosophila melanogaster at both physiological and neurologic levels. These results may provide insight and clarity about the risks of caffeine consumption to humans.
34. Capsella Bursa-pastoris Extracts: Exploring Viscosity and Coagulation in Blood Substitutes
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Morgan McMullen
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: This research examines the viscosities of Capsella bursa-pastoris extracts. The study aims to assess their coagulation potential when mixed with artificial blood, contributing to understanding their effectiveness in addressing blood-related issues and their applications in holistic medicine.
35. Did You Remember to Take Your Thiamine Today?: The Effects of Thiamine on Cognitive Functions
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Landon Fortson
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: Vitamin B1 was the first B vitamin discovered in 1897 and with it came a way to examine the production of energy in the body and aid us in giving us energy to our body and cognitive functions, but are they helping or hindering.
36. A Viscosity Analysis: Exploring How Viscosity Enhances
Medication Flavor and Patient Experience
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Camille Ornelas
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: This experiment examines how the viscosity of flavorings impacts the medication experience. The viscosity of five flavorings, strawberry, banana, orange, grape, and watermelon, was measured through various steps. By obtaining this data, the relationship between flavor thickness and medication delivery can lead to better treatments, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.
37. Real-World Applications Of Quantum Mechanics
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Elizabeth Henry
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description: Quantum mechanics explains how things work on a subatomic level. This study shows how things that are commonly used are made possible through quantum mechanics. The examples used are GPS, electronics like smartphones and computers, lasers, and medical imaging.
38. Cocaine Addiction: Neurochemical Effects, Demographic Influences, and Strategies for Treatment and Societal Impact
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Thant Sin
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Seena Mathew
Description: Cocaine addiction remains a critical public health issue, affecting millions worldwide. This research examines cocaine’s effects on neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine) in addiction, cognitive function and the societal burden. Demographic factors such as gender, age, and genetic variations in cocaine metabolism are analyzed as well as pharmacological and behavioral treatment strategies to address addiction and its long-term consequences.
39. A simple but effective cure for depression
Category: Natural Sciences
Author(s): Max Brisbane
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy
Description:. Vitamin b6 has shown signs of significantly improving depression, stress, and anxiety.
40. Substance Use and Its Adverse Effects on High School Students' Academic Achievement
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Sierra Rubalcaba
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This literature review examines the negative impact of adolescent substance use on academic achievement, including GPA, attendance, and participation. Research consistently shows that substance use, including alcohol, marijuana, and antidepressants, leads to lower academic performance, increased dropout rates, and overall student participation, highlighting the need for effective interventions.
41. The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Briley Miller
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This literature review examines research on social media’s impact on adolescent mental health, focusing on anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation. It explores risk factors, intervention strategies, and implications for educators, mental health professionals, and policymakers.
42. How volunteering impacts spiritual growth and development
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Veronica Shark
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This literature review examines how volunteering fosters spiritual growth by enhancing purpose, social connections, and self-reflection. It explores psychological and emotional benefits, compares religious and secular contexts, and highlights key factors like motivation and reflection. Additionally, it identifies gaps in research on the long-term spiritual impact of volunteerism.
43. The Effects of Isolation on High School Student’s Academic Performance
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Francisco Renteria
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: The description of this project is a literature review that examines the affects of isolation has on a high schools students academic. This literature review seeks to look for gaps in the research finding.
44. Exploring the Impact of Church Involvement on the Well-being of Adult Families who have a Child(ren) with a Disability
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Averianna Featherston
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This literature review seeks to analyzes the relationship between church support and how it affects the community's wellbeing for individuals with disabilities. This research indicates that attending church services increases the opportunities for inclusion.
45. Family Connections: How Visitation Rates Impact Quality of life for Older Adults
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Jayda Hopes
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This is a literary review that seeks to understand how visitation rates impact quality of life for older adults.
46. Does Transracial or Ethnic Foster Care Placements Impact the Sense of Belonging Among Former Foster Care Individuals?
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Sarah Nguyen
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This literature review explores the potential impact of transracial foster care placements on foster youth's sense of belonging.
47. Understanding the Impact A Trauma-Informed Workshop Has on Nursing Home Staff’s Skills and Knowledge
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Aracelia Comeaux
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This research evaluates the impact of a traumainformed care workshop on nursing home staff's skills and knowledge. The workshop focused on trauma, TIC principles, and their application in long-term care. This presentation will share the results of the workshop with nursing home staff (n=35) and provide recommendations for future research.
48. Exploring the Effects of Natural Disasters on Families
Author(s): Alyssa Pender
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This literature review examines how family functioning is impacted by natural disasters including income, mental health, coping strategies, and the parent-child relationship.
49. Exploring the impact of workshops and simulations on teacher empathy and knowledge for students with ADHD
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Macy Rodgers
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This research project presented the UMHB education senior seminar students with a workshop and simulation regarding ADHD and a pre-and post-questionnaire. The goal of this project was to improve teacher knowledge and empathy towards students with ADHD and highlight the importance of simulation experiences in teacher education.
50. The Role of Religious Practice in Enhancing Well-Being for Foster Parents
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Latrice Tillman
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This literature review will examine how religious practices like prayer, worship, and small groups impact foster parents' well-being, improving physical and mental health. It highlights the emotional resilience fostered through religious engagement, explores gaps in research, and suggests strategies for integrating spiritual support to enhance foster family outcomes.
51. Impact of Foster Care Maltreatment on Attachment Styles in Adulthood
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Johnathan Ogir
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: My presentation explores the impact of maltreatment experience in foster care and how it influences attachment styles in adulthood.
52. Navigating Uncertainty: Academic Challenges and Solutions for Youth Experiencing Homelessness
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Rylee Renfrow
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: My project is a visual display of a literature review that I wrote.
53. Homeless No More: A Critical Analysis of the Root Causes of Homelessness Among the Female Population
Category: Social Sciences
Author(s): Jason McCarty, Lyndsey Schwope, College of Humanities and Sciences
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello
Description: This research explores the underlying factors contributing to homelessness among women, including economic instability, domestic violence, mental health challenges, and systemic barriers. By analyzing these root causes, we aim to inform policies and interventions that promote sustainable solutions and support for at-risk and homeless women.
54. Mavacamten vs. Traditional Pharmacologic Treatment for Improving Symptoms and Function in Patients with Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Maddie Goettsch, Roger Nottingham, Britny Zawacki
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: This research systematically reviewed the efficacy and safety of mavacamten, a novel myosin inhibitor, compared to traditional pharmacologic treatments for obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Findings indicated mavacamten significantly improved cardiac function, symptom burden, and quality of life while reducing reliance on invasive therapy, highlighting its potential as a disease-modifying treatment.
55. Mediterranean Diet: Does It Prevent Cognitive Decline?
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Abigail Bonniwell, Kira Huck, Alyssa Sweeney
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: This research explores the impact of the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets on cognitive decline in adults aged 45 and older. A systematic review of 13 studies suggests that these diets may improve cognitive function, while the Western diet accelerates decline. Future research should refine assessment methods and control for confounding factors.
56. CPAP: Unmasking Its Role in Controlling Hypertension in Sleep Apnea Patients
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Rebecca Buckner, Mariana Cantu, Libby Helm, Morgen
Richardson
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: This systematic review evaluated the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on blood pressure (BP) regulation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea and hypertension. Findings suggest CPAP effectively lowers nocturnal BP and restores BP rhythms, with varying effects on daytime BP depending on patient adherence and other factors.
57. An Approach to Appendicitis in Pregnant Women
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Kyndal Riewe, Gracie Creps, Elizabeth Baldo, Jacquelyn Forbes
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: This research examined the diagnostic challenges of acute appendicitis in pregnant women, highlighting how physiological changes complicate symptom presentation and imaging accuracy. A systematic review of 16 studies reveals the risks of delayed diagnosis, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach to improve maternal and fetal outcomes through timely evaluation and treatment.
58. Do Gut Health Modulators Alter Behavioral Deficits in People with Autism?
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Brianna Cole, Alex Carter, Breanna Brumet, Briana Sesmundo
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: This research explored the impact of gut modulators, such as probiotics and prebiotics, on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms. A systematic review of 14 studies found that probiotics improved social communication and behavioral symptoms. Further research is needed to confirm long-term benefits and establish standardized gut-based interventions for ASD management.
59. Effects of Alcohol Cessation on Patients with Gastrointestinal Cancer
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Caroline Zinnecker, Hanna-Rose Hix, Mckelle Winsor, Chloe Williams
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: Analyzing 15 studies, data was collected to explore whether stopping alcohol consumption improves five-year survival rates. Findings are inconclusive, with heavy alcohol intake linked to worse outcomes, while moderate wine consumption shows potential benefits. Further research is needed for definitive conclusions. “This systematic review evaluates the findings of studies investigating the effects of alcohol cessation on five-year survival rates and overall prognosis in GI cancer patients.
60. The Impact of Social Media on the Mental Health of Today’s Youth
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Savannah Mease, Macey Ditta, Caroline Cannan
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: This study explores the impact of increased social media use and early exposure on adolescent mental health, revealing links to increased depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, especially in young females. It highlights a need for further research to develop safety guidelines and promote healthier online engagement with the youth.
61. Are GLP-1 Agonists Worth It?
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Elizabeth Golden, Abigail Denman, Haley Cope, Jacquelyn Brewer
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: This research evaluated the effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide and liraglutide, for long-term weight management in obese, non-diabetic patients. A systematic review of 15 studies found significant weight loss and metabolic benefits compared to diet and exercise alone, though long-term effects and safety require further investigation.
62. Does the Length of Hospital Stay Influence the Effectiveness of Psychiatric Treatment?
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Lexie Lima, Katelyn Robinson, Karen Smith
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: This research examined the relationship between psychiatric inpatient length of stay (LOS) and readmission rates. A systematic review of 30 studies revealed conflicting findings, emphasizing the critical role of post-discharge care. Results suggest LOS alone is not a primary predictor of readmission, highlighting the need for individualized treatment and aftercare planning.
63. The Impact of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus on Cognitive Decline and Dementia: A Systematic Review
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Ciarra Alamia, Camille Perkins, Josue Orozco
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: This systematic review examines the relationship between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Findings highlight how poor glycemic control, prolonged diabetes duration, and complications like diabetic retinopathy contribute to cognitive outcomes. Effective diabetes management may reduce dementia risk, emphasizing the need for further targeted research.
64. The Sugar Showdown: A1c vs OGTT in Diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes
Category: Graduate Student
Author(s): Amanda Gillespie, Savannah Garza, Cody Hays, Grant Richardson
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart
Description: This research evaluates the effectiveness of the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) versus Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in high-risk populations. A systematic review of 15 studies found OGTT to be more sensitive. The research suggests a re-evaluation of HbA1c diagnostic thresholds.
Thanks to all of the abstract reviewers and judges that helped to make Scholars' Day a success
