Nutritional deficiencies and waterborne diseases are common among young children in rural Honduras due to limited access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) practices. This study examined WASH practices and their associations with child nutrition in 400 households across 27 rural communities in Intibucá. Anthropometric data and surveys informed analyses using linear models. Stunting prevalence was 18.0%, while 87.3% of households used piped water, but only 64.0% treated it. Flushing toilets were rare (11.5%), and latrines were shared by 4.2 people on average. Households without piped water had lower weight-for-age z-scores (-0.31, p=0.041), and latrine use was linked to lower length-for-age z-scores (-0.48, p=0.07). Findings highlight the importance of sanitation in child nutrition. Expanding access to piped water and sanitation is crucial for improving child health in rural Honduras.
This paper explores a literature review of how women are expanding more into the workforce requiring them to balance the demands of both family and work. As a result, the importance of breastfeeding is stressed, and the current research involving lactation support for working lactating nurses is investigated. The goal of this paper will be to assess a Southeast Georgia hospital for the barriers and perceived support for working lactating nurses. I predict that there will be a lack of resources and support for working nurses in Savannah Georgia. To investigate this, I will be conducting an anonymous survey using Qualtrics at this Southeast Georgia hospital. I will survey currently lactating nurses including women who have lactated while working at the hospital being surveyed within the last 5 years to increase the possible sample size.
Since the discovery of X-rays in 1895, continuous research has been conducted on their capabilities and limitations with healthcare. One major focus of interest is patient shielding. Since being introduced in the mid-1900s, patient shielding has been practiced to protect gonads, the thyroid, and other radiosensitive body parts. This research project will investigate protocols implemented in various healthcare locations, specifically within Southeast Georgia. An investigation will be guided by conducting anonymous interviews with local imaging departments regarding their procedures and protocols on patient shielding. Results from these interviews will be analyzed and compared to shielding best practices to provide more insight into the limitations and benefits of patient shielding.
Art is a sensory language. In language learning, visual literacy is an important factor in developing interlanguage. Art can interchange cultural understanding and promote social learning. The research gathered is based on the perspectives of teachers in the neighboring schools located in Georgia. The purpose of this paper is to examine how teachers can support language learning using visual literacy. Teachers are asked to participate in an interview to record their experiences in language learning. In the completion of the data collected, the analysis gives a deeper understanding of how to improve accommodating language learners in the classroom using visual arts.
College is a time of transition, marked by new independence and challenges. Researchers were keen to understand college adjustment by examining key factors for students throughout their undergraduate programs. The Wooster-Wickline College Adjustment Test (WOWCAT) was developed as a more accessible alternative to clinical measures, improving existing research around college adjustment. Conducted during pre-pandemic, pandemic, and post-pandemic periods, this study analyzed students' academic year in school (first year, sophomore, junior, senior) alongside study habits and anxiety levels. The findings revealed a significant difference in study habits for students as they advanced in college. However, no significant differences in anxiety levels were observed based on the academic year. These findings aligned with previous research in this study area, emphasizing the nuanced nature of college adjustment. The study promotes the necessity for continued research to understand better and support students during this pivotal time of life.
Implementing advanced weapons systems requires a comprehensive approach integrating technological, organizational, strategic, and economic dimensions. Technologically, these systems demand innovative research and innovation. Organizationally, a well-established industrial and defense infrastructure is critical. This includes a workforce capable of engineering and maintaining complex systems and effective logistics to support production and deployment. Coordination among government agencies, defense contractors, and research institutions is necessary to align development efforts with strategic goals. Strategically, advanced weapons systems require careful planning to integrate with existing defense frameworks and address specific needs. Economic development underpins all these aspects by providing the financial resources and infrastructure necessary for research, production, and deployment. A strong economy facilitates significant investment in defense technologies. Conversely, economic constraints can limit a nation’s ability to invest in and sustain advanced weapons systems. Thus, economic development is essential for the effective advancement and implementation of sophisticated weapons systems within Sub-Saharan Africa.
This case study discusses how Invasive Ductal Carcinoma presents in different modalities and how the patient is affected. This presentation will include symptoms, treatments, and a description of the pathology mentioned to help the reader get a better understanding of the topic. Information was extracted from patient file with full respect to HIPPA and research was obtained through reliable resources to give accurate information on Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. The goal of this research is to help spread awareness on breast cancer and how one can be proactive even before detection of cancer. This helps explain the importance of at home self-examinations and annual mammograms. Alongside ultrasound other modalities such as mammogram, MRI, PET scans, and core needle biopsies are proven to identify breast cancer. In conclusion, Invasive Ductal carcinoma can spread through the lymphatic system and metastasize, therefore, it is important to know the signs and your treatment options.
The current study examines anxiety in college students, primarily focusing on how it relates to the students’ gender and class year. The study recruited 1481 undergraduate students from Georgia Southern University. The College-Specific Anxiety subscale of the Wooster-Wickline College Adjustment Test (WOWCAT; Wickline et al., 2009) was used to measure anxiety levels. The study hypothesized, 1) anxiety levels would have significant differences among class years, and 2) anxiety would vary by gender, with women and gender non-binary people reporting higher anxiety than men. No significant differences in anxiety levels between class years were recorded. There were significant differences in gender, with women and gender non-binary groups reporting higher anxiety levels than men. These results indicate gender differences can contribute to anxiety, but class year may not have a direct impact. Future research should continue to examine these dynamics using diverse samples and improved measurements.
My research focuses on the role of sonography in detecting breast cancer, particularly ductal carcinomas in situ. I will also explore how mammography and MRI assist in detection and treatment. Ductal carcinomas, the most common type of breast cancer, include ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a precursor lesion with the potential to become invasive (Tajima et al., 2019). While sonography is valuable in detecting breast cancer, it has limitations, making additional imaging essential for accurate diagnosis. Combining these modalities enhances detection and treatment planning. Research supports how sonography collaborates with other imaging techniques in clinical settings. Through this project and my own experiences, I aim to highlight the benefits of integrating sonography, mammography, and MRI for improved breast pathology detection.
Encapsulated papillary carcinoma is a very rare form of breast cancer that accounts for 1-2% of all cancerous breast tumors. It is a cancer that usually presents in postmenopausal females, but can be found in men as well. It is a slow growing cancer with a favorable prognosis, and has a 5% local recurrence rate. However, it is still a malignant cancer that needs to be treated as quickly as possible. Ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging tool that can be implemented when a patient has a suspicious area seen on a routine mammogram. This case study covers how ultrasound can be used to diagnose encapsulated papillary carcinoma in men specifically. Male breast cancer needs to be addressed more often, and ultrasound is a method that can be implemented to prevent and diagnose breast cancer in men.
In 2001, Maltby found a negative correlation between celebrity worship and mental well-being (i.e., the greater the celebrity worship, the worse mental health tended to be). This study revealed that poor mental health was associated with celebrity worship and the Entertainment-Social subscale “uniquely contributes” to social dysfunction and depressive symptoms while the intense-personal subscale was related to both depression and anxiety. While celebrity worship gained prominence in a technology-driven culture of innovation and social media popularity, the recent upsurge in Social Media Influencers (SMIs) is a relatively new state of social evolution. The goal of the current research is to replicate and extend Maltby’s prior research with celebrities in 2001 to explore the effects of admiration with SMIs and address new issues – absorption, extreme attitudes, problematic social media use (PSMU), global changes in the culture of social media, and implications for mental wellness.
Nanobodies (Nb) are small proteins derived from the variable region of heavy chain only antibodies of camelids. Nbs can be used as therapeutics and in diagnostics as they can be engineered for high target affinity and their size means they can penetrate tissues more effectively. They can also be produced in E. coli and are therefore cheaper and easier to produce than monoclonal antibodies. Recently, a nanobody degrader was developed that utilizes a miniprotein to deliver a nanobody attached to an E3 adaptor to recruit ubiquitin ligase. The Nb recognizes a target and directs it for degradation. NB91 is a high-affinity PRL3 nanobody previously developed. We are using it to construct a cell permeable degrader that can be used against PRL3 as an alternative to small molecule inhibitors. PRL3 is an established target for various cancers and a PRL3 degrader can be developed for clinical applications.
The purpose of the study was to examine whether instruction on underlying component articulation skills using video models, discrimination training, and TAGteaching can improve the dialect of spoken Spanish in non-native Spanish speakers. Results showed that all three participants improved their articulation and even had growth in sounds non-targeted for intervention.
ABA renewal is a treatment relapse phenomenon in which previously extinguished target behavior recurs upon returning to a familiar context. In renewal, a target response may receive reinforcement in an original context, referred to as Context A, but is extinguished in a separate context, referred to as Context B. Despite extinction, rates of target responding may be observed when the individual is returned to Context A. One method to mitigate renewal is to increase similarity between contexts by programming stimuli across both Contexts A and B. The current investigation had 31 college undergraduate students participate in a three-phase ABA renewal arrangement implementing differential reinforcement of alternative responses in a translational preparation. The results replicated previous research observing ABA renewal phenomena despite differential reinforcement and further observed that renewal may be less robust and more variable when stimuli are programmed using eye-tracking software.
krandall@georgiasouthern.edu, College of Behavioral and Social Science
Dr. Randall is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst at the doctoral level and Assistant Professor at Georgia Southern University. She earned a Master’s of Education degree in Special Education from Vanderbilt University. She earned a doctoral degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from... Read More →
West Nile Virus (WNV) is the leading cause of mosquito-borne vector diseases in the U.S., primarily transmitted by Culex mosquitoes and maintained in bird reservoirs. It often presents with central nervous system symptoms such as encephalitis, meningitis, seizures, and altered mental status, with no FDA-approved treatment beyond supportive care. This study examined the prevalence of neuroinvasive WNV (nWNV) in New York State from 1999 to 2023, analyzing its distribution across counties classified as Atlantic Ocean (AO)-bordered, Great Lakes (GL)-bordered, or landlocked (LL). Using a Generalized Linear Model (GLM) with a Poisson distribution, twelve counties, including Bronx, Nassau, and Queens, showed significant associations with nWNV cases (p < 0.01). AO counties had the highest susceptibility compared to GL (β = -2.74, p < 2×10⁻¹⁶) and LL counties (β = -4.11, p < 2×10⁻¹⁶). These findings emphasize the role of standing water in disease transmission and the need for increased public health awareness.
Discrete-trial teaching (DTT), a restricted-operant teaching arrangement, and frequency-building instruction (FBI), a free-operant teaching arrangement, represent two instructional strategies derived from operant conditioning. Researchers and practicing behavior analysts have used both to establish and firm up novel stimulus-behavior relations. Despite the effectiveness of both procedures, few studies have compared the two techniques and assessed the effects on the emergence of fluent responding. The current study extends the research to typically developing college students to directly compare DTT and FBI. We taught participants the numerals 0-10 in unknown foreign languages (i.e., Mandarin, Arabic, and Hindi) using both procedures. Under both conditions, we held constant the number of practice trials and frequency of reinforcement. Results found quicker acquisition under restricted-operant conditions for all participants, though none of the participants met the desired frequency aim prior to the end of the study. We discuss the results of the study in the context of planning for learning across three stages of learning.
Accurately predicting consumer purchasing behavior is a cornerstone of effective inventory management and targeted marketing strategies. The rapid evolution of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), combined with unprecedented access to high-quality, real-time consumer data, has paved the way for more sophisticated and precise predictive models. Leveraging these advancements, this research focuses on developing a cutting-edge predictive model utilizing Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural networks to assess the likelihood of consumer purchases with high accuracy. Our approach involves analyzing intricate behavioral patterns by tracking a consumer's sequence of interactions leading up to a purchase—or abandonment—using real-world data from an online shopper purchasing intention dataset. By capturing the temporal dependencies within consumer actions, LSTM models enable us to decode subtle decision-making patterns and anticipate purchasing intent with greater precision.
This study investigates how the progression of a collegiate academic school level could affect academic performance and how the severity of the level of problematic substance use alters the college student’s academic outcome. Previous studies observed that the effects of problematic substance use included negative impacts on cognitive functioning and academic performance. Our findings suggest that academic performance generally improves as students advance through their collegiate years, with a noticeable improvement between the sophomore and junior years. This increase is likely due to developing more effective study habits and time management skills. On the other hand, academic performance was found to be lower among students reporting higher levels of problematic substance use. As substance use severity increased, academic performance, including GPA, tended to decline. These results highlight the need for early identification of substance use issues and intervention to support students’ academic success.
While research on social media use has been extensive, the effects of selfie photo editing remain under examined, particularly regarding racial differences. McGovern et al. (2022) highlighted the need for further research, as most studies have relied on predominantly Caucasian samples. The current study examines racial differences in photo investment and editing behaviors among American college students. This study uses an online Qualtrics survey in which the participants take the The Revised Photo Investment Scale, Revised Self-Photo Manipulation Scale, Body Surveillance subscale of the Objectified Body Conscious Scale, and the Revised Physical Appearance Comparison Scale. Preliminary findings indicate that Caucasian females engage in more self-photo manipulation than African American females, particularly in facial and body modifications. However, no significant racial differences were found in photo investment. Data collection is ongoing, now including male participants, and further analysis will explore factors that may influence racial differences in photo editing behaviors.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Traditional treatments, such as medication and behavioral therapy, have shown varying degrees of success, but the potential benefits of alternative therapies like meditation are gaining attention. This study explores the impact of meditation on ADHD treatment through the analysis of EEG (electroencephalogram) signals. By examining changes in brainwave patterns during and after meditation sessions, we aim to understand how meditation may influence cognitive functions commonly affected by ADHD. Preliminary findings suggest that meditation may enhance attention, reduce hyperactivity, and increase mental focus, as evidenced by altered EEG activity, particularly in the theta and alpha frequency bands. These results imply that meditation could serve as a complementary tool in managing ADHD symptoms, offering a non-pharmacological option for treatment. Further research is necessary to validate these findings and optimize meditation-based interventions.
This presentation looks at how meditation affects autism treatment. We did that by reviewing studies that analyze EEG (Electroencephalography) signal changes in individuals with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). Through a literature review, we summarize key findings on how meditation influences brain activity in ASD. The research suggests that meditation can positively change EEG patterns, which may be linked to improvements in focus, emotional balance, and overall well-being. This review helps to organize current knowledge and highlights the need for more research in this area. By presenting these findings, we aim to give a clearer picture of meditation’s role in ASD treatment.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, and AI-powered natural language processing (NLP) models, such as ChatGPT and MediSearch, have the potential to improve patient education by providing accessible health information. This study evaluated the readability and similarity of CVD-related responses from ChatGPT Free (GPT-4o mini), ChatGPT Premium (GPT-4o), and MediSearch across three education levels: Lower Secondary, Higher Secondary, and College Graduate. FAQs on CVD were reformatted into user-friendly prompts and entered into each model. Readability was assessed using the Flesch-Kincaid Ease Score and Grade Level, while response similarity was analyzed using BERT embeddings with Cosine Similarity. Results showed that readability significantly decreased as education level increased (p<0.001), with ChatGPT Free providing the most accessible responses and MediSearch delivering more complex outputs. ChatGPT models demonstrated greater similarity to each other than to MediSearch. These findings emphasize the need for improved AI-driven medical communication tools.
Traditional nonverbal cues like pitch and pupil dilation are increasingly unreliable, especially for nuanced communication like sarcasm. This study investigates gestural cues in sarcasm perception building on prior research that identifies the mouth and eyes as crucial. Sarcasm, prevalent yet potentially difficult to detect may benefit from nonverbal cues. We hypothesized that participants would better discern speaker intent with both audio and visual, and that eyes and mouth would be primary cues in video-only conditions. Undergraduate participants viewed videos from the RISC database, with or without audio, and identified speaker intent (literal, humor, sarcasm, white lie). They then reported which gestural cues aided their perception: eyes, mouth, eyebrows, etc. Eye-tracking technology was used to validate self-reported cues. We anticipate eye tracking data will support self-reported findings.
This review examines ultrasound elastography’s role in improving breast lesion detection and cancer diagnosis. Breast cancer is a major health concern, making early detection essential. Traditional imaging methods, like mammography and conventional ultrasound, have limitations, often leading to unnecessary biopsies. Ultrasound elastography, a non-invasive technique assessing tissue stiffness, aids in distinguishing malignant from benign lesions. By measuring tissue response to mechanical stress, elastography enhances diagnostic accuracy and reduces unnecessary procedures.
This review explores current research on elastography’s benefits and limitations. Studies suggest combining it with conventional ultrasound improves lesion characterization and diagnostic confidence. Future research should refine techniques, integrate machine learning, and conduct large-scale trials to validate effectiveness. Advancing elastography in breast cancer imaging could significantly enhance early detection and patient outcomes. Continued research and technological development are needed to maximize its potential.
Camp Blue Skies was created to provide an enriching camp experience for adults with developmental disabilities, such as individuals with Williams Syndrome. Campers can socialize, learn, and have fun through various recreational and skill-building activities. Williams Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects development, causing strong social and verbal skills but challenges with cognitive function, social boundaries, and spatial reasoning. Volunteers play an essential role in the success of camp operations and enhancing the campers’ experience. As students studying Communication Sciences and Disorders, we will reflect on our service-learning experience supporting campers with Williams Syndrome to highlight observed communication challenges and personal insights. Ultimately, we will discuss effective communication strategies and interventions to assist this population and those who interact with them.
Air pollution is a growing risk factor for cardiovascular disease, yet its impact on cardiovascular mortality in Georgia remains unclear. This study examines the relationship between air quality and cardiovascular-related death rates across Georgia counties. Using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data, we will analyze yearly average Air Quality Index (AQI) values from 2019-2021 and compare them to age-adjusted cardiovascular mortality rates (ages 35+) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Counties will be categorized into low-, moderate-, and high-pollution groups based on AQI percentiles, and regression analyses will assess air pollution as an independent predictor of cardiovascular mortality. Adjustments will be made for demographic and socioeconomic factors, including income, smoking, obesity, and healthcare access. By mapping trends at the county level, this study aims to provide data-driven insights to inform public health policies and environmental regulations to reduce air pollution-related cardiovascular deaths in Georgia.
Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria) is an overlooked plant native to Southeastern Georgia that has commercial uses like brewing tea. It is well-established that plant-microbial relationships are beneficial for plant health and resilience. Here, I will characterize the bacteria types present in Yaupon Holly roots. DNA was extracted from replicate root samples collected from 36 plants subjected to different nutrient levels and shade regimes at Temples Farm, Metter GA. From the DNA, the bacterial 16S rRNA genes were PCR amplified. Gel electrophoresis was performed to confirm the presence of bacterial DNA. Replicate PCRs from the same plant were pooled for Illumina DNA sequencing. 16S sequences will be analyzed to determine whether the bacterial composition varies with shade and nutrient levels. This will be the first study that examines the Yaupon Holly microbiome. This will provide foundational information that could lead to the development of agricultural probiotics to benefit Yaupon farmers.
Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) hatch success (e.g., % eggs that hatch) is lower in Georgia than worldwide. Microbial infection of eggs during incubation is one threat sea turtles face. During deposition, eggs exit the mother’s cloaca, a mucus-lined orifice that also releases digestive waste. The egg surface, therefore, is coated with intestinal microbes that potentially influence egg health. Here, we seek to characterize the bacterial cloacal microbiome composition. Over 10 years, between 2013 and 2023, cloacal mucus was collected by swabbing 19 nesting loggerheads on Wassaw Island, GA. DNA was extracted from swabs and subjected to PCR targeting the V3-V4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. PCR products were subjected to Illumina-based DNA sequencing. DNA sequences will be analyzed to identify bacterial groups most frequently detected among turtles. Ultimately, this project will lead to a better understanding of the loggerhead microbiome and its contribution to egg health.
The improvement of stability of engineered proteins is an important area of research given the several applications of proteins that require them to be very stable. It is known that there is a generally inverse relationship between protein stability and flexibility. Proteins move around in solution and have intrinsic flexibility, which, in turn, is critical for their functionality. In this way, the relationship between stability, function, and dynamics is very complex, and the underlying principles governing this relationship are yet to be fully elucidated. Engineered, highly stable, homeodomain DNA-binding proteins have been designed to retain their functionality and, in some cases, have higher affinity to their cognate DNA partners than their natural counterparts. This project compares the stability and function of a consensus homeodomain, natural homeodomains, and rationally-designed mutants to lay the foundation for studying the complex relationship among these properties of proteins.
The increasing global prevalence including overweight and obesity during pregnancy presents a significant challenge in managing both healthy pregnancy and smooth delivery. Methods: Odds ratios were used to measure (Gestational Diabetes Mellitus) GDM prevalence across BMI (Body Mass Index) categories. The researchers performed a meta-analysis to establish trends in obesity-related GDM risk such as dietary treatment, pharmacologic treatments, and lifestyle changes during pregnancy. Results: Results show a strong link between obesity and the occurrence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Metanalyses show that the chance of getting gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) goes up significantly with higher (BMI). This supports earlier research that found that being overweight during pregnancy can lead to insulin resistance and other metabolic issues. Conclusion: Pregnant women who are at risk of obesity during pregnancy need to receive individualized interventions for weight management, to protect the health of the baby and the mother.
In penetration testing, efficiently identifying and prioritizing vulnerabilities is crucial for effective risk management. Traditional methods often rely on manual assessments or static scoring systems, which can be time-consuming and inconsistent. This research project implements an AI-driven framework that automates vulnerability prioritization and remediation recommendations, enhancing penetration testing efficiency. The system leverages data from the National Vulnerability Database (NVD), processing vulnerabilities based on their Common Vulnerability (CVE) scores and descriptions. It scans a target system and presents the user with a ranked list of the most critical vulnerabilities for immediate attention. Additionally, the tool integrates AI to provide detailed remediation guidance for each identified issue, offering actionable, context-specific advice on mitigation. This powerful dual approach accelerates decision-making, empowering security teams to swiftly neutralize the most critical threats with precision while leveraging expert-driven intelligence for maximum defense effectiveness.
Nanobodies (Nb) are small antigen-recognizing proteins derived from the heavy chains of camelid antibodies. They can be generated by immunization of camelids followed by isolation of competent antibodies and sequencing of the variable domain. High affinity nanobodies are then selected by ELISA or similar techniques. Another strategy is the use of synthetic libraries such as yeast surface display platforms. Using the NbLib platform, we are developing nanobodies that bind the protein tyrosine phosphatase from S. pyogenes, SP-PTP. Our strategy involves enrichment of binding-competent Nbs from the library using magnetic-activated cell sorting followed by identification of high-affinity nanobodies by ELISA. These Nbs can be used as inhibitors of SP-PTP, a virulence factor in S. pyogenes, or as tools to probe their roles inside the bacteria or host cells.
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common thyroid carcinoma. Its appearance differs depending on the variant present and the imaging modality utilized. The multiple modalities to diagnose and treat PTC, include computed tomography (CT), ultrasound (US), and nuclear medicine. A combination of imaging modalities is often used throughout the course of evaluation, treatment, and management. Ultrasound and CT are often used to aid in the diagnosis of PTC, while nuclear medicine, thermal ablation, and surgical resection are forms of treatment. Due to the many possible pathways for the combined diagnosis and treatment of PTC, additional research is required to determine the most effective imaging modality or combination of imaging modalities for PTC cases. Optimal treatment plans for different variants of PTC after initial diagnosis is another area in need of further exploration.
Polyaspartic acid (PAA) is a biodegradable polymer synthesized from the naturally occurring amino acid, aspartate. PAA is widely used in crop production as a biostimulant, and studies have reported that it enhances plant growth and yield. However, the mechanisms of PAA mode of action, its dynamics and degradation in soil and plant systems remain poorly understood. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of polymer size on plant growth using the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. In addition, we will look into the dynamics of PAA in the growing media, its interaction with plant roots and how this influences plant growth. To address this objective, plants will be grown in agar-based media under sterile conditions with continuous lighting. The plants will be treated with PAA of different lengths, specifically 14,000 and 27,000 Da and growth parameters will be assessed. The expected results will provide insights into PAA’s role in nutrient acquisition and its potential applications in crop production systems.
Although photo editing has been found to correlate with problematic symptoms/experiences, the lack of experimental research hinders a determination of causality. This is an experiment on the effects of selfie editing on evaluation of one’s natural appearance. Undergraduates select a task from an envelope that purportedly contains a range of aesthetic tasks. However, all participants select a task involving selfie taking. Participants rate the attractiveness of their image. Next, they are instructed in the use of FaceTune and are asked to make their image as attractive as possible and then rate its attractiveness. Participants then rate the attractiveness of a series of images in a slideshow, embedded with the unedited or edited selfie. We expect participants’ ratings of the attractiveness of their unedited selfie will decrease after selfie editing. If photo editing causes a decreased appreciation for one’s natural appearance, there is a potential pathway to more lasting effects of appearance dissatisfaction such as seeking of cosmetic procedures.
The protein tyrosine phosphatase from Streptococcus pyogenes, SP-PTP, is an important regulatory protein in this human pathogen. Studies have shown that SP-PTP regulates as much as 50% of genes involved in virulence of S. pyogenes. Because of this, it is important to study its function and interaction with potential inhibitors. Recombinant SP-PTP was expressed in E. coli and purified through affinity and size exclusion chromatography. The phosphatase activity was characterized using a synthetic substrate, para-nitrophenylphosphate. Kinetics parameters were determined by monitoring the production of dephosphorylated substrate. Inhibition by known protein tyrosine phosphatase, sodium orthovanadate, was also characterized. SP-PTP shares a very similar structure with the human low molecular weight protein tyrosine phosphatase, LMW-PTP. As only the open conformations of both are currently available, a vanadate-bound structure will reveal more about the mechanisms of both proteins. Finally, LMW-PTP inhibitors will also be characterized for their potential ability to inhibit SP-PTP.
TAGteach (Teaching with Acoustical Guidance) is an instructional technology that provides learners with immediate feedback to reinforce correct responses during skill acquisition. TAGteach relies on use of an acoustical marker (e.g., a click sound) to signal correct behavior, thereby minimizing or eliminating the need for verbal feedback. By presenting a distinct auditory stimulus to act as a marker, instructors can provide precise and immediate feedback on specific skill components. The purpose of this literature review included systematically examining the existing research on the use of TAGteach for acquiring novel behaviors and skills. We evaluated its effectiveness as an intervention by calculating Tau-U effect sizes and summarized key descriptive variables. Further, we analyzed procedural variations across studies to identify any commonalities and differences in TAGteach implementation. This poster will highlight findings from the review and discuss recommendations for practice/future research.
TAGteach (Teaching with Acoustical Guidance) represents an intervention package that has been found effective for the development of skills in areas such as dance, golf, yoga, and surgical skills. TAGteach simplifies the targeted skill into several steps, called tag points. The instructor states the tagpoint to the learner (e.g., the tagpoint is…) and marks correct responses using an acoustical stimulus that produces a “click” sound. Given that TAGteach represents an intervention package with multiple components, it is unknown whether its effectiveness lies in the complete package or if variations of its components are sufficient for skill acquisition. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to compare two different variations of the TAGteach intervention by teaching college students how to make origami figures. We aimed to investigate the effects of using the verbal cue (e.g., the tagpoint is…). Findings and implications for practice will be presented.
Resurgence refers to the reemergence of destructive behaviors after an intervention, particularly when an alternative response, learned during treatment, is exposed to worsening conditions. Identifying predictive variables for resurgence, such as impulsivity, is key to reducing its impact. Impulsivity involves choosing smaller, immediate rewards over larger, delayed ones. Understanding impulsivity’s role in resurgence may guide more effective interventions. This study examined the sensitivity and specificity of a modified Progressive Interval Assessment (PIA) for measuring impulsivity in individuals with developmental disabilities exhibiting problem behaviors. Researchers assessed participants' sensitivity to varying rewards to develop the modified PIA, identifying the breakpoint at which individuals reverted to problem behavior after delays in receiving larger rewards. These breakpoints were examined for their predictive value for resurgence during Functional Communication Training (FCT), which teaches alternative communication responses. A second modified PIA assessed shifts in impulsivity following FCT, contributing to a better understanding of impulsivity as a behavioral marker for resurgence.
krandall@georgiasouthern.edu, College of Behavioral and Social Science
Dr. Randall is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst at the doctoral level and Assistant Professor at Georgia Southern University. She earned a Master’s of Education degree in Special Education from Vanderbilt University. She earned a doctoral degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from... Read More →
Procedural extinction in the context of behavioral interventions directly refers to the reduction of problematic behavior. This is achieved by withholding or stopping the reinforcement that the participant’s problem behavior is contingent upon (Iwata et al., 1994). Although there has been research evaluating procedural extinction’s effectiveness and ways to mitigate its known side effects, there is limited research on the social validity of the intervention and how this impacts its application. In the current study, we inquired about clinicians’ experience, perception, and application of extinction across behavioral health settings. This was done initially by replicating and extending survey instruments and procedures to accurately gather data from responding clinicians (Roscoe et al.). In addition, we asked the survey pool and a wider audience to participate in a choice-based task to determine the likelihood of selecting an extinction behavior reduction intervention versus a non-extinction-based reduction intervention with delays to efficacy.
krandall@georgiasouthern.edu, College of Behavioral and Social Science
Dr. Randall is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst at the doctoral level and Assistant Professor at Georgia Southern University. She earned a Master’s of Education degree in Special Education from Vanderbilt University. She earned a doctoral degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from... Read More →
Functional communication training (FCT) is a function based intervention which increases communication responses that functionally replace abhorrent behaviors. The intervention utilizes differential reinforcement of alternative response procedures to establish alternative responses as a treatment for severe problem behaviors. FCT can involve a variety of communication topographies, and has been implemented with individuals diagnosed with various developmental disabilities. FCT pre-training, the initial training phase, involves placing abhorrent behavior on extinction while using various prompting methods to establish the functional communication response (FCR) in the individual’s repertoire. Establishment of the FCR in the initial phase is critical for response generalization, and maintenance. In a systematic review of behavior analytic literature FCT is commonly used as an alternative response intervention, however much of the literature does not sufficiently report on FCT Pre-training. Literature review findings, implications for future research, and grounds for future research are to be discussed.
krandall@georgiasouthern.edu, College of Behavioral and Social Science
Dr. Randall is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst at the doctoral level and Assistant Professor at Georgia Southern University. She earned a Master’s of Education degree in Special Education from Vanderbilt University. She earned a doctoral degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from... Read More →
Social networking sites (SNS) like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter have been integrated into Americans' lives and facilitated social engagement, leading to self-presentation effects where individuals emphasize desirable versions of themselves. The rise of photo editing applications reflect this desire for ideal self-representation. McGovern et al. (2022) highlighted the need to study the effects of social media usage and photo editing on identity and self-image, suggesting research be conducted on the relationship between photo investment, manipulation behaviors, and variables like appearance dissatisfaction, body surveillance, and perfectionism. This study utilized a revised Self-Photo Manipulation Scale to explore correlations between various editing behaviors and potential correlates, including concerns about body size and facial appearance. Findings are expected to reveal significant gender differences and also relationships between photo investment and editing and issues such as body surveillance, physical appearance comparisons and dissatisfaction, and perfectionism, ultimately aiding in developing effective interventions for photo editing behaviors.
Despite studies showing the benefits to mentored trainees, particularly women, minorities, and non-traditional students often find their voices overlooked in larger student bodies, and their specific needs are not always addressed by traditional programs, limiting their full potential. This has contributed to their underrepresentation in surgical specialties, especially otolaryngology (ENT). This study is survey and interview-based, involving residents and faculty across various otolaryngology programs, in which their responses will be analyzed to identify patterns that define valuable mentorship experiences. Five preliminary themes have emerged, with "Communication," "Connection Outside the Workplace," and "Similarities Matter but Aren't Everything" being the most recurring and impactful. All participants shared that they were both informal mentors and mentees, and they emphasized the value of mentorship in both their personal and academic life at all stages.
Losing a parent during adolescence is an emotional experience shaped by social factors like family support, community resources, and financial stability. Adolescence is already a time of major change, and parental loss can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and academic struggles. However, not all teens experience grief in the same way. Access to financial and emotional resources, such as supportive families, schools, and communities, may help adolescents cope better. Teens in under-resourced areas often struggle due to fewer financial resources and trouble accessing mental health care. Grief is not just a personal struggle; this literature review examines the social factors influencing grieving and healing. Improving access to resources can help ensure that all grieving adolescents receive the support they need.
This study investigates how intertidal Spartina alterniflora terrestrial arthropods community diversity changes with zonation from the terrestrial saltmarsh edge to the aquatic edge. There will be three 10-meter transects at both sites (Butterbean Beach and Priest Landing) running parallel to the water line: one in the middle of the Spartina patch, one on the higher edge of the patch as it transitions into a terrestrial habitat, and one on the lower edge of the Spartina patch which transitions into an aquatic habitat. Specimens will be sampled along these transects twice using sweep-nets at low tide, and weather conditions (temperature, clouds, wind) will be measured to try and keep conditions consistent between samples. The specimens will be used to measure species richness, abundance, and diversity between transects and sites.
Recent data suggests a concerning increase in mental health challenges among college students. Untreated mental health conditions can have significant negative consequences on college students’ lives such as poor academic performance, hindered social relationships, reduced quality of life, and increased risk of substance abuse. Yoga may offer a potential option to help tackle mental health problems among college students. TAGteach (Teaching with Acoustical Guidance) offers an intervention package that has been shown to improve performance in areas of sports and athletic activities. The current study systematically replicated Ennett and colleagues (2020) by examining the effects of TAGteach to teach beginner yoga poses to college students. We compared two error-correction procedures: standard TAGteach and TAGteach with reduced practice, to assess the impact on skill acquisition, maintenance, and generalization. This presentation will discuss results and provide practical recommendations for applying TAGteach within health and wellness programs, as well as provide directions for future research.
This study investigates the dynamics of measles epidemics using deterministic and stochastic SIR models. In the deterministic model, we analyze infection dynamics through the basic reproductive number \({\mathcal{R}_0} \), assessing equilibrium stability for \(\mathcal{R}_0 < 1 \) and \(\mathcal{R}_0 > 1 \). In the stochastic model, we establish the existence of global solutions and define the stochastic reproductive number \({\mathcal{R}^s_0}\), examining disease dynamics under varying environmental fluctuations. While the deterministic model suggests disease persistence, stochastic factors introduce the possibility of extinction events, highlighting the impact of randomness on disease transmission. Additionally, we present conditions for infection extinction and discuss the stochastic stability of solutions. Numerical simulations illustrate the theoretical findings.
Effective behavioral crisis management is essential for patient and staff safety in healthcare settings. Although physical restraints are commonly used in acute care facilities, they present significant risks of harm and psychological trauma. This study assessed the impact of implementing a behavioral crisis management algorithm, combined with an educational component, on reducing restraint use in a pediatric emergency department. A quality improvement initiative was conducted across three pediatric emergency sites within one hospital system in the Southeastern U.S. This project examined restraint utilization three months before and after implementation of the algorithm. Forty-five emergency department clinicians participated in a structured one-hour training session on the use of the crisis management algorithm. Pre-intervention data indicated that many providers felt inadequately prepared to manage behavioral crises and were unfamiliar with existing crisis management guidelines. The use of physical restraints before the intervention was significantly high, around 73.25%. Post-intervention findings demonstrated a decrease in restraint use to approximately 46.15%, representing a 27% reduction in restraint utilization. Additionally, staff reported a 16% increase in competency and comfortability in using the algorithm, along with a 74% improvement in adherence to the crisis management protocol. These findings highlight the importance of structured protocols and competency-based training in minimizing restraint reliance. Future research should explore long-term outcomes and scalability of similar interventions in diverse healthcare settings.
Enzymes are proteins that catalyze a biological reaction. During catalytisis, enzymes undergo conformational changes accommodating substrate binding and product release. GMPK catalyzes the conversion of GMP and ATP to GDP and ADP. GMPK typically assumes an open U-shaped conformation. Upon binding of the substrates, GMP and ATP, its lid domain locks the substrates in place adopting a closed conformation. This open/closed transition has been detected by SAXS and AUC in human GMPK and by X-ray crystallography for homologs. We are interested in studying the dynamics of this transition using biophysical techniques such as electron paramagnetic resonance and paramagnetic relaxation enhancement NMR. To accomplish this, we first need to generate spin labelled versions of GMPK. Spin labelled will be introduced site-specifically by cysteine reactivity, using MTSL, in a cysless GMPK background. SDSL combined with EPR and PRE will allow for characterization of the dynamics of GMPK in solution.
Virtual Human Assistants (VHAs) represent a groundbreaking evolution in digital interaction, seamlessly blending advanced natural language processing, expressive facial animations, and lifelike gestures to create immersive, human-like experiences. This study delves into the transformative impact of VHAs on user engagement and learning outcomes by integrating cutting-edge audio-visual elements. Participants will experience three distinct lecture formats: (1) audio-only, (2) audio paired with a VHA face, and (3) audio enhanced by a fully expressive VHA with dynamic facial expressions and body movements. To maximize interactivity and immersion, each lecture incorporates gamified elements, such as real-time, adaptive questioning. Ensuring consistency across all formats, we employ MetaHuman technology within Unreal Engine, delivering realistic, uniform VHAs for a controlled study environment. By fusing VHAs with gamification, this research aims to uncover the optimal synergy of audio and visual stimuli that drives deeper learning, enhances user experience, and reshapes the future of digital education.
To accelerate the discovery and development of therapeutic molecules and biological evaluation, we propose the D4N+ (Network for Data, Discovery, and Drug Design). This collaborative network will enhance synthesis and biomedical research at Georgia Southern University by supporting investigators with a shared goal of developing and promoting potential therapeutics. Through collective efforts, the center aims to expedite the transition from "beaker to bench" and ultimately from "bench to bedside." This initiative will foster a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment within the College of Science and Mathematics at Georgia Southern University and with regional partner institutions.
Eurymerodesmus varius is a species of flat-back millipede with a range that expands across the Southeastern United States. While commonly encountered, Eurymerodesmus are relatively small and thus are overlooked and understudied. In fall of 2023, millipedes were found crawling into buildings on Georgia Southern University’s Armstrong Campus in Savannah and dying en masse. Because parasites are known to elicit behavioral responses in some infected hosts, we dissected the dying millipedes and surveyed them for nematodes and other potential parasites. We found a high (>65%) prevalence of gregarine Apicomplexans within the intestines and body cavity of male and female millipedes. While gregarines are often considered to be parasites that can cause behavioral modifications in their hosts, they can also form commensalistic or mutualistic partnerships. We determined the presence, abundance, and types of gregarines found in both dying and healthy E. varius specimens
Eurymerodesmus varius is a species of flat-back millipede with a range that expands across the Southeastern United States. While commonly encountered, Eurymerodesmus are relatively small and thus are overlooked and understudied. In fall of 2023, millipedes were found crawling into buildings on Georgia Southern University’s Armstrong Campus in Savannah and dying en masse. Because parasites are known to elicit behavioral responses in some infected hosts, we dissected the dying millipedes and surveyed them for nematodes and other potential parasites. We found a high (>65%) prevalence of gregarine Apicomplexans within the intestines and body cavity of male and female millipedes. While gregarines are often considered to be parasites that can cause behavioral modifications in their hosts, they can also form commensalistic or mutualistic partnerships. We determined the presence, abundance, and types of gregarines found in both dying and healthy E. varius specimens
Late leaf spot (LLS) of peanut, caused by the fungus Nothopassalora personata, causes leaf defoliation, and even death in peanut plants, reducing crop yields and costing an average of $44 million losses per year. The fungus can be chemically controlled by fungicides; however, it is likely that the fungal pathogen has evolved the ability to avoid negative effects of these chemicals. Evolution of fungi occurs through reproduction. Fungi reproduction include asexual, where fungi produce genetically-identical spores, and sexual, where opposite mating types contribute DNA and produce genetically-unique spores which lead to genetic diversity in fungal populations. Our research question is: Is Nothopassalora personata reproducing sexually in GA peanut fields? We collected LLS samples, extracted DNA, and tested that DNA for the presence of two mating genes: MAT-1 or MAT-2. Results indicate that both mating types are present in the same peanut field in south GA; therefore, sexual reproduction is possible.
Following the 2025 Presidential Inauguration, new federal immigration policies have been enacted that may impact local law enforcement. Prior research suggests that negative media portrayals of police influence law enforcement self-legitimacy. Accordingly, public perceptions of these policy changes may similarly affect local agencies. This study examines local law enforcement attitudes toward ICE oversight, the extent of their cooperation with federal mandates, and the perceived impact of such interventions on community relations, crime reporting, and officer self-legitimacy. A survey will assess perspectives on ICE involvement, federal-local collaboration, and its effects on public trust and policing efficacy. We hypothesize that many agencies will express reluctance toward extensive ICE intervention, citing concerns over strained community relations, resource allocation, and the erosion of local policing priorities. The study will discuss the broader implications of these findings for law enforcement and policymaking.
Pediatric spinal dysraphism is a congenital condition that results from the neural tube failing to fuse correctly, resulting in spinal deformation and other anomalies including spina bifida, meningocele, and myelomeningocele. This condition is uncommon, occurring in about 1 in 1,000 live births, and is most often diagnosed in newborns or infants. Diagnostic imaging modalities such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are commonly employed to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric spinal dysraphism. Ultrasound is a popular technique for its lack of ionizing radiation and its effectiveness in early diagnosis. Ultrasound is also considered the most accessible imaging modality. MRI is renowned for its ability to produce high-resolution images of the spinal cord, allowing easy identification of spinal inconsistencies or pathology. Many professionals in the field of radiologic sciences have claimed these modalities to be complementary to each other, each one having its advantages to contribute to diagnostic accuracy and efficacy. However, some studies still strive to reinforce the use of ultrasonic technology as the gold standard. The purpose of this comparative research analysis is to determine and assess the correlations, advantages, and disadvantages of different imaging modalities to determine which technique offers superior diagnostic accuracy and efficacy for the early detection, diagnosis, and management of pediatric spinal dysraphism. By establishing a standardized diagnostic approach that maximizes the advantages of both modalities, professionals will be better equipped to enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes in this at-risk population.This collaborative effort ensures accuracy and efficiency in early detection, assists with a time-based course of action, and improves foreseeable outcomes for children with this condition. The established goals for future collaboration and continued research include advancing diagnostic technology, improving imaging protocols and standards, and making continuous advancements in interdisciplinary integration and pediatric care standards.
This research project explored Black men and women’s perspectives on the politicization and criminalization of Black hair, giving attention to the ways in which societal, cultural, and political factors shape their experiences and perceptions. Data for the current study was gathered using semi-structured interviews with a diverse group of Black individuals. Participants are asked to elaborate on how they understand Black hair as an expression of both resistance and conformity in various social contexts. Participants shared information about personal emotions, perspectives, and experiences with their hair, as well as the impact of racialized beauty standards and political movements (such as the Natural Hair Movement) have influenced their own hair choices. This study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the intersection of race, gender, cultural identity, and beauty standards; as well as to shed light on how Black individuals negotiate and navigate the political, social, and cultural complexities surrounding their hair. Keywords: Race, Politics, Hair, Resistance, Criminalization
The widespread use of harmful pesticides to boost crop yield is common in modern agriculture. However, biostimulants offer an eco-friendly alternative that can reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers. Amino acid-based biostimulants are particularly promising due to their biodegradability and positive impact on plant growth. Polyaspartic acid (PAA) is an example of this type of additive that has been shown to retain/improve crop parameters at lowered nutrient levels. Our part in this collaborative project is to track and quantify PAA in plant growth media (agar gel) using spectroscopic techniques (UV-vis, fluorescence, etc.). Reported here is our initial methodology for performing these measurements and our steps to optimize the process into an efficient and reproducible protocol. Ultimately, understanding PAA’s influence on nutrient absorption, this research aims to contribute to the development of sustainable agricultural practices.
In the treatment of problem behavior, practitioners aim to reduce the frequency of a specific response by differentially reinforcing a socially desirable alternative behavior while withholding reinforcement for the problem behavior, thereby placing it on extinction. Under these conditions, resurgence may occur, in which a previously extinguished response reemerges following the discontinuation of reinforcement for a more recently reinforced alternative behavior due to changes in reinforcement conditions or schedules. As an alternative to the immediate withdrawal of reinforcement (i.e., extinction), gradual degradation of reinforcer quality may also reduce problem behavior by progressively reducing the value of reinforcement across trials, leading to a gradual reduction in responding to a desirable level. This study investigates how reinforcer quality affects the level of resurgence, in a controlled laboratory setting using Long-Evans rats.
krandall@georgiasouthern.edu, College of Behavioral and Social Science
Dr. Randall is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst at the doctoral level and Assistant Professor at Georgia Southern University. She earned a Master’s of Education degree in Special Education from Vanderbilt University. She earned a doctoral degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from... Read More →
Parasocial relationships (PSR’s) are one-way relationships that are formed between an individual and a media figure. Individuals can develop a strong sense of familiarity, kinship, and connection with these idols, even with a lack of reciprocity. PSRs may have an impact on one’s emotional well-being, identity formation, and even consumer or voting behavior. Data was collected from participants in Psychology and Political science classes via an online survey. The participants responded to the Multidimensional Measure of Parasocial Relationships (MMPR). The MMPR was an 18-item scale that evaluated participants' thoughts, feelings, and behaviors regarding their parasocial relationships with social media figures. They also responded to several research-designed questions that assessed admiration and interest in politicians and politics. This study aims to build upon emerging research by investigating the relationship between PSRs and interest in politics, preference for social media platforms, and choice of virtual engagement strategies.
Millions of women have experienced sexual violence in their lives. These sexual violence cases have led to different scales of movements worldwide. From the Reclaim the Night movement of the 1970s to more recent movements such as the MeToo and Nirbhaya movements. In previous research, it has shown that when women break the silence and stigma of sexual violence, more women feel inclined to do the same. Using data from the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, the survivors of sexual assault know their assailants. Leading to many social factors keeping them from sharing with people who have harmed them sexually. Fortunately, with these recent movements appearing, more women have felt a sense of empowerment to share their stories or fight for women who have decided to share their stories.
With the rise of AI-powered photo editing tools and the sharing of highly edited photos across social media, concerns about the impact of selfie photo editing have grown. Our initial 2023 study addressed outdated measures of photo taking and editing behaviors. Survey responses from 120 female college students using the Self Photo Manipulation Scale (SPMS-r) and the Photo Investment Scale (PIS-r) were analyzed using exploratory factor analyses. Factor analysis of the SPMS-r identified three components—Editing Facial Features, General Editing, and Editing Body Features. However, the PIS-r analysis revealed unclear constructs and low internal consistency. This study aims to validate and refine these findings by readministering the survey to additional participants to re-examine scale reliability and also to examine concurrent validity with measures of related constructs. The goal is to create current, psychometrically sound measures of photo taking and editing in order to advance insights into photo-related behaviors and effects.
The carbon dioxide concentrating mechanism (CCM) in the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is essential for photosynthesis, and inducible under CO2-limiting conditions. The key components of the CCM are transport proteins, which allow passage of bicarbonate across various cellular membranes. This study focuses on the CIA8 protein, a putative inorganic carbon transporter localized to the chloroplast membrane. The structure and mechanism of CIA8 function in Chlamydomonas are not yet known. Our objective is to characterize CIA8, elucidate its structure and mode of function. To support our goal of characterizing the structure of CIA8, we will recombinantly express it in E. coli using the T7 Expression strain. Meanwhile, we will use a carbonic anhydrase (CA) mutant of E. coli to evaluate the ability of CIA8 to complement the loss of function of CA. The mutant does not grow well in limiting CO2 conditions which we can take advantage of to evaluate if CIA8 is functional in E. coli. Results will provide insights into the 3D structure and role of CIA8 in Ci uptake and its potential application in improving photosynthesis in food crops.
Breast cancer is the most common malignancy and cause of cancer-related death in women globally. Early detection is vital for improving survival and treatment options. This study compares the effectiveness of mammography and sonography in detecting breast cancer. Women are advised to begin annual mammograms at age 40, unless there is a family history of breast cancer. Sonography is often used when mammograms show abnormalities, women with dense breast tissue, during pregnancy, or when a palpable mass is detected. While mammography is widely used, it may not always be available or feasible in some settings. Sonography, alone or combined with mammography, can also be effective. Studies show that depending on factors like age, breast density, and family history, sonography may have higher sensitivity than mammography. The combination of methods offers superior diagnostic accuracy, suggesting that integrating sonography with mammography could enhance breast cancer detection, especially in patients with dense tissue.
Magnetic Resonance (MR) guided focused ultrasound (gFUS) is a relatively new minimally invasive technique that uses high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) guided by magnetic resonance (MR), also known as MRgFUS, to treat several diseases, such as prostate cancer, breast cancer, and particularly uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids (UFs), also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous tumors that grow in or around the uterus. They are the leading cause of hysterectomies, which are currently the most accepted treatment option. The aim of this research is to determine the effects of MRgFUS treatment on symptomatic uterine fibroids. The MRgFUS technology uses ultrasound and MRI simultaneously. The combination of these two modalities operates by using focused thermal ablation via ultrasound and MRI to precisely guide and target the lesions. In more detail, when ultrasound, or more specifically FUS, travels through the body, it results in molecular rearrangement leading to tissue heating, which causes thermal ablation. MR, moreover, has the ability to map the temperature elevation of the focal spot and surrounding tissues, resulting in superb precision and accurate monitoring of organ motion. Therefore, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging collaborate to enable safe and controlled non-invasive heat ablation for uterine fibroids. Future goals to possibly be explored with the connections of my findings is the use of this technology with larger size UF’s and women wanting to conceive. This research aims to provide a new minimally invasive approach that may offer an alternative treatment for women with uterine fibroids. Additionally, the research will facilitate the discovery of the advantages, limitations, and postoperative effects of the MRgFUS treatment.
Lung ultrasound (LUS) is making an emergence as an essential diagnostic tool in respiratory critical care medicine. LUS offers a simple, rapid, beside approach for evaluating, diagnosing, and treating pulmonary related diseases and conditions such as pleural effusion, pneumonia, pneumothorax, and COVID-19 associated lung injury. Unlike other modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and X-ray, LUS offers a non-invasive approach by having the advantage of the absence of radiation exposure. It is a diagnostic tool that is being integrated into respiratory therapy practice to enhance respiratory care, causing a collaboration between ultrasound technicians and respiratory therapists (RTs). This research aims to examine the role and importance of lung ultrasound in respiratory care and diagnosis and the collaborative training provided by ultrasound technicians to equip RTs with LUS skills. There have been multiple comprehensive literature reviews conducted to analyze studies on the application of LUS in diagnosing and treating pulmonary diseases. Within these studies, there has been mention of the collaborative efforts between ultrasound technicians and respiratory therapists to enhance diagnostic capabilities and improve patient care outcomes by using LUS. This research aims to examine both previously mentioned statements by going in depth about each listed concept. Future goals that can possibly be explored to further improve research between the collaboration of these two modalities are those such as developing and implementing standardized training LUS protocols for RTs, and establishing continuous education workshops where ultrasound technicians and RTs can share knowledge, skills, and information about the latest advancements in LUS technology and practices. Keywords: Lung ultrasound, pneumothorax, pleural effusion, pneumonia, respiratory therapists, collaborative efforts
This project will extend current literature in stimulus equivalence in rats using olfactory stimuli (i.e., odors in the form of essential oils). More specifically, we want to determine if using olfactory stimuli in a match-to-sample task will replicate the paucity of previous research which suggests that rats may have the ability to demonstrate transitivity.
A liver biopsy can be a vital resource for diagnosing, assessing, and treating a variety of liver diseases and conditions. A liver biopsy is conducted by taking a sample of liver tissue by way of a needle that is then taken to a laboratory for testing. This can be performed in a variety of ways. The gold standard for liver biopsies is performing them under image guidance. The two most common imaging modalities used are ultrasound and computed tomography (CT). Within each of these modalities, liver biopsies can be performed in multiple ways. CT-guided biopsies can be performed unenhanced, intravenous (IV) enhanced, and intra-arterial Lipiodol-marked enhanced. Ultrasound biopsies can be performed percutaneously with either no contrast or with contrast and can also be performed endoscopically (EUS). When a liver biopsy is performed it is either targeted or random. Indications for a targeted liver biopsy include to differentiate between benign and malignant, primary or secondary malignancy, or to diagnose or stage metastatic disease. Random liver biopsy indications include acute injury, chronic parenchymal disease, transplant rejection, and abnormal liver function tests. Risks associated with liver biopsies include pain, bleeding, injury to other structures, allergic reactions, bile leaks, and death. Using ultrasound is considered the gold standard for image guided liver biopsies, but in some cases CT guidance should be used. These instances include when lesions are not adequately visualized on ultrasound or when a safe needle trajectory can’t be identified with ultrasound. This research aims to compare the use of ultrasound and CT for image guided liver biopsies and the different types used for each, as well as understanding the safety of image guided liver biopsies and emerging technology. Continued research should be conducted involving endoscopic ultrasound guided liver biopsies and contrast use in image guided biopsies to understand their significance.
Recent research has focused on seed propagation methods for the salt marsh plant Spartina alterniflora to support marsh restoration initiatives. This study examined the role of salt marsh microbes and chemical compounds on seed development and germination through two experiments. The first investigated the role of microbes and chemical compounds in estuarine water on embryo development through the assessment of seed viability after winter storage in three treatments: deionized (DI) water (control), autoclaved estuarine water (compounds), or filtered estuarine water (microbes + compounds). Afterwards seed viability was assessed using the tetrazolium chloride test. Results showed significantly greater viability in the DI treatment, indicating no influence from estuarine water. The second still ongoing experiment examines how microbes and chemical compounds affect the germination rates of seeds inoculated with marsh soil filtrate. Three treatments include: DI (control), DI base plus filtered soil inoculant (microbes + compounds), and DI plus autoclaved soil inoculant (compounds).
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects individuals with ovaries, characterized by an imbalance in reproductive hormones due to elevated androgen levels. This hormonal disturbance often results in irregular menstrual cycles, amenorrhea, and unpredictable ovulation. Ovarian morphology associated with PCOS typically includes multiple small follicular cysts and potential ovarian enlargement due to chronic anovulation. Clinical manifestations extend beyond reproductive irregularities and may include hirsutism, acne, weight gain, and infertility. The diagnostic approach for PCOS is multifaceted, combining clinical evaluation, laboratory testing, and imaging studies. Commonly, physicians employ a combination of physical examination, specific lab tests, and pelvic ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis. Pelvic ultrasound remains a fundamental method in diagnosing PCOS, with several sonographic parameters being used to distinguish polycystic ovaries from healthy ovaries. Key sonographic indicators include increased ovarian volume, increased follicle count, distinctive peripheral follicle distribution, and heightened ovarian stromal echogenicity. These parameters, particularly ovarian volume and follicle count, serve as reliable markers for PCOS, with peripheral follicle distribution being an especially distinctive indicator of the condition. Enhanced ovarian stromal echogenicity suggests potential reproductive dysfunction. In addition to these methods, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is another imaging modality that may be used to assess ovarian morphology. MRI provides insights similar to pelvic ultrasound, allowing for the measurement of ovarian volume and follicle count, as well as observation of follicular distribution patterns. The integration of MRI in the diagnostic process enhances the accuracy of PCOS evaluation. Thus, a combination of clinical, laboratory, and advanced imaging techniques is essential for the precise diagnosis of PCOS.
The role of sonography in sports medicine is increasing as research is done on the benefits and range of uses. Sports physicians can use ultrasound to enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment of pathologies. Research on this topic showed many instances where MSK ultrasound is being integrated into the sports medicine field. Physical therapists can use MSK ultrasound to treat knee, ankle, and other pathologies. There is also an increasing importance of integrating ultrasound into the curriculum for athletic training students to help with the diagnosis and treatment of injuries. When comparing other forms of imaging techniques for knee joint pathologies, it can be concluded that MRI is one of the most widely used tools. However, research stated that high-resolution sonography is better than MRI when comparing costs and availability. Collaboration between sports medicine and sonography programs would be beneficial in integrating the different modalities into both fields.
This research poster is about the roles of ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) in the imaging and diagnosis of patients with kidney failure. It emphasizes their strengths, weaknesses, and ability to diagnose accurately. Kidney failure is described as the partial or complete loss of kidney function. There are two main kinds of kidney failure, acute and chronic. Acute kidney failure happens suddenly, usually in people who were injured or are already critically ill. Chronic kidney disease develops over time and may not cause symptoms until much later. It is necessary to be precise and timely in imaging to aid in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of the patient. The faster kidney failure is caught and diagnosed, the better off the patient will be. The benefits of ultrasound include its accessibility, lack of ionizing radiation, and cost-effectiveness. It serves as a primary diagnostic tool and is useful in evaluating kidney size, structure, and any possible obstructions. Its strengths lie in the initial assessment and ongoing monitoring of the patient. On the other hand, CT imaging offers higher resolution and detailed anatomical information, crucial for detecting complex pathologies such as renal masses, and complications not as easily visualized by ultrasound. This paper reviews comparative studies, explaining situations where the benefits of using CT outweigh its higher cost and radiation exposure, and the benefits of using US for continued monitoring. The combined use of these imaging modalities can enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve patient outcomes, and optimize the management of kidney failure. This paper discusses the need for a tailored imaging approach, considering patient-specific factors and clinical scenarios, to utilize the strengths of both ultrasound and computed tomography in the evaluation of kidney failure.
The phosphatase of regenerating liver 3, or PRL3, is one of the most promising targets among the protein tyrosine phosphatase superfamily. It is known to regulate several pathways related to oncogenesis and increased metastasis. As such, several on-going drug discovery programs target PRL3 towards the development of migrastatics. We have identified several molecules with validated binding and modest inhibition against PRL3. While these molecules provide scaffold for development of more inhibitors, they currently have weak inhibitory activity and are still being developed. This project launched a high-throughput virtual screening campaign targeting a pocket that was previously identified through simulations and computational analysis. This virtual screening uses a library of >3 million lead-like molecules. Preliminary analysis revealed that several top binders have structural similarity to previous hits. Clustering analysis will identify other unique structural features based on this screen to support drug discovery against PRL3.
Gallbladder disease is an extremely common set of disorders that appears in many patients. The two most common modalities used to examine the gallbladder are CT and ultrasound. Ultrasound is typically used first due to it being less expensive, fairly accurate, and using sound waves instead of radiation. However, ultrasound is dependent on the user or can miss diseases due to patient body habitus. This is where CT comes in, being able to visualize the gallbladder very well and being extremely accurate in finding gallbladder disease regardless of patient body habitus. However, it uses radiation and could be uncomfortable for the patient. A good goal for both modalities would be to better understand the other modality, its benefits, and its shortcomings so we can get a better idea of what to expect on both sides when looking for gallbladder disease so as to further reduce the likelihood of missing it.
My topic for the research assignment is “The Role of Ultrasound in Diagnosing Abnormalities in Preterm Infants”. Ultrasound is a great way to diagnose abnormalities in preterm infants because it is non-invasive, real-time, and no radiation is used. Some of the preterm abnormalities could include: hydrocephalus, intracranial hemorrhage, brain edema, choroid plexus cyst, and etc. Cranial ultrasounds are some of the most important for infants because their real-time imaging can see the anatomy and functional irregularity. The real-time imaging helps with a quick diagnosis for neurodevelopmental disabilities. These disabilities or irregularities need an early diagnosis so it can be treated or managed better. After reviewing the research articles I have chosen, I discovered that they mainly focus on abnormalities of the brain or lungs. Although, this is typically more commonly diagnosed in infants; there are other abnormalities that need to be diagnosed.
Therapeutic ultrasound is a type of ultrasonic procedure that is a noninvasive treatment in which sound waves are used to penetrate soft tissues which increases blood flow. This treatment is used to relieve pain, improve circulation, and encourage tissue healing. Therapeutic ultrasound is mainly used to treat various musculoskeletal pathologies, soft tissue shoulder pathology, and myofascial pain. My research is to see how beneficial therapeutic ultrasound is and what effects it has on the body. I want to see if therapeutic ultrasound does more good than harm since it is noninvasive and uses sound waves instead of radiation. Issues related to therapeutic ultrasound are superficial burns to the skin when used for long periods of time. When using high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), it is important for tissue changes to be monitored in order to confirm the treatment has been attained. There are two methods used for treatment monitoring and image guidance which is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound. MRI imaging can measure temperature changes during therapy within the treatment zone of the therapeutic ultrasound procedures. Special clinical systems have ultrasound therapy subsystems integrated into MRI imagers for treatments of uterine fibroids, breast cancer, and prostate cancer management. It was interesting to find out how MRI and ultrasound helped each other in treatment options. The current research on therapeutic ultrasound is to determine the effectiveness of this treatment option and how safe this treatment method is compared to other modalities.
The Protein Data Bank (PDB) is a database for experimentally determined structures of biomacromolecules. To date, there are >230,000 structures of proteins and nucleic acids in the PDB, which celebrated its 50th year in 2021. Throughout its existence, it drove the development of structural biology as a field. PTP1B, a founding member of the human protein tyrosine phosphatase superfamily, is an interesting case study. The first PTP to be purified, PTP1B is also the first one to be structurally characterized. The first crystal structure of PTP1B was deposited in the PDB in 1994 and now accounts for >400 entries. It has served not only as a model to study PTP structures but also as a model system for the study of protein structure and dynamics. Examination of PTP1B structures within the PDB tells a story that reflects the evolution of structural biology as it now enters its dynamic era.
Aquaponics is a constructed ecosystem combining aquaculture and nitrifying bacteria to provide nutrient rich water to grow plants directly in water (hydroponics). Algae can lead to mechanical issues by clogging tubing and pumps, as well as competing for nutrients with plants. The objective of the experiment was to use interspecies competition and the reduction of light to reduce algae biofouling. Duckweed (Lemna minor) was added to an existing aquaponics system in an area exposed to sunlight to induce interspecies competition with the algae. The experimental set up consisted of multiple replicates of 360 cm2 floating micro-ponds of landscaping fabric, foam pool noodles, and ~75% cover of Lemna minor. Treatment #1: fabric and Lemna minor. Treatment #2: fabric only, and Control: neither. The expected results include whether this method reduces algae growth, due to decreased light exposure and/or competition for resources with Lemna minor. The experiment will be conducted March-April 2025.
Fungi living inside plants, called fungal endophytes, can produce novel antibiotics and other interesting compounds for use by humans. This project explores the fungal endophytes of the Yaupon Holly plant, Ilex vomitoria, used as an alternative to tea. We ask, “Are there differences in the fungal endophytes found between male and female Yaupon Holly plants?” and “Are there differences in the fungal endophytes in young leaves of Yaupon Holly compared to the older, established leaves?” Leaves from 3 male and 3 female plants were sampled, including from young and older leaves. Six random leaflets were surface-sterilized and plated on growth media. Fungi that grew from the leaflet pieces were subcultured, and morphologies, such as color, growth pattern, and colony texture, were cataloged. Female leaves had twice as many unique fungi compared to male plants. There was little difference in the fungi found in young versus older leaves.
Lifestyle, hormones, age, environment, and genetics are all contributing factors to how individuals respond to medications. Genetics play a large role and even a single mutation in a protein can alter how they respond to treatments. A well studied example of this is a mutation found in the beta-2 adrenergic receptor, also known as ADRB2. Functional polymorphisms of ADRB2 have been shown to lead to diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). Both asthma and COPD are widely studied and several medications are on the market that effectively treat these diseases. A single mutation in ADRB2 can alter how patients with asthma, COPD, or other breathing problems, respond to these otherwise effective treatments. Specifically, the Thr164Ile mutation changes the affinity of said drugs to the ADRB2 receptor, making them less effective. Determining one's genetic makeup can determine what medications will be most effective for them.
S. pyogenes is a gram-positive human pathogen that has been linked to various diseases from skin infections to necrotizing fasciitis and rheumatic heart disease. The orphan protein tyrosine phosphatase from S. pyogenes (SP-PTP) was recently identified as a major virulence regulator, with studies showing that the knockdown of SP-PTP leads to reduced growth, impaired cell division, and decreased ability to invade host cells, exhibiting its importance in S. pyogenes pathogenesis. This makes it a viable target for new antibiotics, specifically targeting bacterial virulence. This project aims to identify small-molecule inhibitors of SP-PTP. An available crystal structure of SP-PTP shows high similarity with other low molecular weight PTPs (LMWPTPs). Using this structure, computational analysis of potential druggable pockets was performed. Consensus pockets were identified using FTMap and DoGSite and further validated by molecular dynamics druggability simulations. A virtual screening of a panel of FDA-approved drugs was also performed targeting these pockets.
This systematic literature review explores the role of eye-tracking technology and software algorithms in enhancing the detection and diagnosis of ADHD. ADHD, a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting both children and adults, is traditionally diagnosed through behavioral assessments, which may lack objectivity. Recent studies suggest that eye tracking, specifically focusing on saccades, fixations, and blink rates, offers the potential for more accurate and objective measures of ADHD.
The review examines clinical trials, observational studies, and machine learning research to assess the correlation between ADHD and eye movement patterns. Results indicate that individuals with ADHD exhibit distinct eye movement patterns, which can be quantified through eye-tracking technology and analyzed using software algorithms.
These technologies have shown promise in improving diagnostic accuracy, with machine learning models further enhancing their potential. However, the effectiveness of these interventions varies across age groups and study designs, highlighting the need for further research to refine these tools for clinical application.
Eye-tracking technology and assessment software provide a valuable supplement to traditional diagnostic methods but require further validation and standardization before widespread clinical use in children and adults.
Sports have the power to unite, inspire, and transform lives, but for many high school students with learning disabilities, access to inclusive athletic programs are limited. I aim to change that by developing a practical sports initiative in Statesboro that fosters confidence, teamwork, and physical well-being. By designing adaptive, engaging activities that are tailored to different abilities, this initiative will create an environment where every student can participate, compete, and thrive. Beyond just athletics, it will serve as a platform for social connection, mentorship, and empowerment. How can we ensure that sports are truly inclusive? How can we break barriers and build a program that meets the needs of this student population? Through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to accessibility, this initiative has the potential to make a lasting impact, proving that everyone, regardless of ability, deserves a platform to play, grow, and succeed.
This paper seeks to understand the concept of constitutional originalism while also critiquing the idea and providing alternatives to constitutional interpretation. It evaluates whether originalism is an acceptable approach, measures the benefits and negatives of the idea, and contrasts it with other prominent methods. This is achieved through the analysis of writings by legal scholars, supreme court justices, and case review.
The presentation will explore the lived experience of Black Americans as victims of settler colonialism under chattel slavery and its implications on Black identity.
The lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, is the most common tick in Georgia. It is mainly known as an Ehrlichia spp. vector, but its microbiome can be diverse, depending on geography, developmental stage, and season. Little is known about bacterial diversity in ticks from the southeastern U.S. A Nanopore MinION sequencer was used to analyze the bacterial microbiome in A. americanum from the Statesboro region. DNA was extracted from 35 nymphs, 39 males, and 39 females. DNA samples were pooled by month of collection and life stage/sex, amplified with barcoded 16SrDNA primers, and sequenced. Approx. 77% of the identified genera corresponded to environmental microbiota. Bacterial genera, commonly associated with ticks, such as Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Rickettsia, Borrelia, Coxiella, and Rickettsiella, were detected with variable prevalence rates. Borrelia spp. was found only in males from March, while Rickettsia, Coxiella, and Rickettsiella were found in all genders/ life stages and months.
Acridine compounds are being widely researched as potential cancer therapeutics. We have tested several different compounds, some have been previously reported as well as some that are newly synthesized, on A549 (lung) cancer cell line, PC3 (prostate) cancer cell line, and BT5 (breast) cancer cell line. An MTS assay, a colorimetric procedure, was used to measure cell viability at 48 hours after dosing with 50uM concentration of the compounds. Confocal microscopy was used to count nuclei, visualize morphological changes, and image the inherent fluorescence of the most cytotoxic compound at 24 hours via DAPI staining. All compounds contained a chloride and an oxygen-methyl group attached to the base acridine structure, but the most potent also contained an alcohol group attached to the central nitrogen. Future studies are to evaluate possible molecular targets of the compounds inside the cells as well as test on other cancerous and non-cancerous cell lines.
Artificial Intelligence(AI) is reshaping society, influencing industries, daily life, and human interactions. But at what cost? AI enhances efficiency with automation, decision-making, healthcare, business, and so much more; but also raises concerns about bias, privacy, and job displacement. Accessibility, productivity and problem-solving are improved through innovations driven by AI and are challenging existing norms, but require ethical governance. The societal impact of AI solely depends on responsible development, regulation, and integrate to ensure fairness, inclusivity, and privacy. It is crucial to understand AI's influence to balance the benefits and risks in it's place of shaping the future.
This paper examines Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana risk factors for diabetes outcomes, considering the prominent determinants such as geographic location, income, and educational level. Such determinants play a role when it comes to shaping health outcomes, with research indicating positive correlation between per capita expenditure on healthcare and life expectancy. In spite of that, inequalities do occur, even in developing nations such as Ghana, where minimal health care investment impacts poor health outcomes. Socioeconomic factors, including low living conditions, poor access to healthcare, and illiteracy, reinforce health disparities, especially in rural areas. Informed by a review of past research, we hypothesized that these socioeconomic factors would significantly impact the risk of diabetes. Evidence is available to show the importance of accounting for socioeconomic disparities and linking unhealthy eating, illiteracy, and poor access to healthcare with high health risks. By surveying adults in Kumasi, this study seeks to assess the interrelation between determinants of lifestyle, economic status, and chronic illness with the goal of generating evidence to guide health promotion interventions bridging resource gaps between wealthier and poorer groups. The findings will contribute to global health by highlighting the role of health promotion in reducing inequalities and improving health outcomes in resource-constrained settings.
This project addresses the intersection of accessibility and design, more precisely making experiences accessible to visually impaired and color blind users. The starting point of this project was designing a tactile children's book for visually impaired readers by incorporating Braille. Building on the same purpose, the project shifted to digital accessibility and user interface design of the iSense app—an app that assists visually impaired users with their daily needs. The app was designed with colorblind users in mind by introducing high-contrast images, palettes that are colorblind-safe, and various accessibility features. The report encapsulates the research, design process, and problem-solving strategies underlying the project. The goal of this project is to emphasize the importance of multi-sensory design and accessible digital experiences while demonstrating how design can be more inclusive.
During the Spring 2025 semester, I enrolled in the graduate-level Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) course, ACCT 7131, where I volunteered in tax preparation services for faculty, staff, students, and the local community. This experience gave me insight into tax complexities and fostered personal growth through community service. I assisted with collecting documents, verifying information, and completing federal and state tax returns under the guidance of professors. Working with diverse clients—from first-time student filers to community members with more complex situations—taught me the importance of clear communication and empathy. Helping people secure refunds and reduce tax liabilities was highly rewarding, reinforcing my commitment to service. The course also improved my problem-solving, attention to detail, and deadline-management skills. Overall, VITA deepened my understanding of tax processes and sparked a stronger interest in pursuing a career in Tax Accounting.
This capstone class seeks to emulate real-world discussions in business industries such as healthcare, entertainment, finance, and technology. This also includes societal challenges such as surrounding ethical dilemmas, government, misinformation and safety. Using the knowledge of strategic management and critical thinking to actively participate in selected topic discussions. Being able to learn lessons from examining cases and engaging conversations helps enhance problem solving skills that discussions seek to help guide through multi-faceted problems. Applying theories and knowledge of business functions with the encouragement for us to use those skills to continue growing now and, in the future, to be set up for success.
Embedding carbon fiber plates (CFPs) in running shoes can improve running performance. However, there is limited research on whether replacing the insole with a CFP in a running shoe affects walking performance. This study explores the overground pressure distributions of CFP shoes, CFP insert, and no CFP when walking at different velocities. Five adults were asked to walk on a pressure measure mat at three speeds of their choice: fast, moderate, and slow, measuring Peak pressure, Peak time, and Pressure*Time at Heel, Arch, and Forefoot areas. The analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA with repeated measures (α = 0.05). CFP shoes significantly shorten peak time and reduce localized pressure across walking speeds, alleviating foot load compared to non-CFP shoes. CFP inserts showed a similar trend, especially in reducing peak pressure, highlighting the potential of CFP shoes for performance enhancement and fatigue reduction during walking.
The following study explores the character types that have been historically available to Black actors in American theatre and how that representation enforced, resisted, or ignored stereotypes. To examine the impact of those roles on the performers who played them, I examine the documented approaches Black actors have taken to embody their characters, as well as my own evolving process used to portray the eight characters I have inhabited in my personal college performance career at Georgia Southern University. This research and retrospective analysis reveal that while a lazy or performative indifference leads to harm, color-conscious inclusion, challenging conversations, and specific actions all contribute to liberation in performance.
smccarroll@georgiasouthern.edu, Honors College, College of Arts and Humanities
Sarah McCarroll is an Associate Professor of Theatre at Georgia Southern University, where is also serves as the resident costume designer and costume shop manager. She is the outgoing editor of Theatre Symposium and the Chair of SETC's History/Theory/Criticism/Literature committ... Read More →
Rebellions are often sparked by a few visionaries with steadfast courage and a deep desire for change, rallying others to fuel the movement forward. Social movements typically start small, with a ripple effect that may not be entirely new but signals the continuation of struggles from previous generations. When the conditions are ripe and enough people have reached their breaking point, the passion can ignite a transformative societal fire. This is exactly how the Women’s Liberation Movement and the Gay Rights Movement ignited societal shifts in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. However, transformative movements always face backlash, violence, and criticism. This resistance often comes not only from the public but also from the government, using resources like the police, military, and media to suppress change. The Women’s Liberation Movement encountered verbal assaults and media manipulation, rooted in deep-seated gender norms and cultural stereotypes. In contrast, the Gay Rights Movement experienced more physical violence and institutionalized hatred, particularly from federal agencies. These violent acts reflected broader societal fears and hostility toward the LGBTQ+ community. Both movements, despite facing unique forms of resistance, highlight the complex dynamics of social change during a transformative era.
This study explores the connection between exclusionary disciplinary practices and the school-to-prison pipeline. It highlights how exclusionary discipline, including suspensions and expulsions, disproportionately affects marginalized groups such as students of color, students with disabilities, and LGBTQ youth, further contributing to the school-to-prison pipeline. In contrast, restorative justice—a non-punitive approach—offers a promising alternative. Initially adopted from the criminal justice system, restorative justice has been integrated into school environments to foster positive school climates, improve experiences, and mitigate challenging behaviors. This research examines educators' attitudes toward both exclusionary and restorative practices, as well as their awareness and implementation of restorative justice strategies. Using a comprehensive case study approach, this study aims to identify best practices for implementing restorative justice and evaluate how the decisions made by administrators and teachers regarding exclusionary discipline can significantly impact students' future trajectories.
People with PTSD or histories of trauma may have brains that vary in structure when compared to healthy or trauma-exposed (but non-PTSD) controls. This is especially true when it comes to the white matter of the brain. In this review, I found a variety of research articles covering the effects of trauma on white matter, using methods primarily of regions of interest (ROI) and fractional anisotropy (FA) through diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Other methods include TBSS, voxel-based analysis, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), among others. Adults, adolescents, and children with PTSD and with trauma that meet PTSD criteria will be considered together. My prediction is that adults and adolescents with histories of various forms of psychological trauma will have reductions in white matter volume in the corpus callosum, cingulum, and uncinate fasciculus, while children will have reductions in the corpus callosum, cingulum, and hypothalamus.
This presentation is a continuation of research I have conducted in the past year and presented to the Southern Political Science Association in 2025 as a socio-political examination of Kazakhstan since becoming an independent nation since the collapse of the United Soviet Socialist Republic. The de facto seat of power in the Central Asian region, Kazakhstan is the location of much material wealth in the region, but also a source of incredibly distinct and storied culture despite well-documented Soviet erasure. The presentation will examine the implications of these developments in a holistic fashion and ultimately answer a question many Americans have when it comes to foreign relations and developments: "Why should I care?"
The brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus is a vector of several pathogens, including Rickettsia rickettsii, Rickettsia massiliae, and Ehrlichia canis. This study genotyped ticks infesting dogs in Bulloch County kennels and tested them for tick-borne pathogens. 104 ticks were collected from 11 dogs and identified morphologically as R. sanguineus. Tick DNAs were extracted and their 12S rRNA mitochondrial genes were amplified and sequenced to determine their genotypes. Bioinformatic analyses were performed using BLAST and MEGA. The tick DNAs were tested for DNA of Rickettsia and Ehrlichia. Two tick genotypes were identified among 22 ticks sequenced - 21 (95.5%) ticks had temperate lineage genotype, and one tick had tropical lineage genotype (4.5%). Eight of 104 (7.7%) ticks were PCR-positive for Ehrlichia and 22 (21.2%) for Rickettsia. Our results indicate multiple introductions of dog ticks into Bulloch County have occurred and both Rickettsia and Ehrlichia are found in these ticks.
Carbon fiber plates (CFPs) are widely used to enhance performance by optimizing shoe bending stiffness. Incorporating a CFP in the shoe significantly reduces peak plantar pressures in the forefoot and midfoot areas likely to be injured during running. This study examined the effects of CFPs placed in the midsole and as inserts on overground pressure distribution during running. Five healthy college students ran in three shoe conditions (CFP shoes, CFP inserts, and No-plate shoes) at two speeds on a pressure measuring mat to measure peak pressure at the Heel, Arch, and Forefoot areas. A 2-way ANOVA with repeated measures (α = .05) was used to analyze the data. Heel pressure was highest in CFP shoes and lowest in no-plate condition. CFP shoes had lower arch pressure, while CFP inserts showed the least forefoot pressure. These results suggest that CFP placement influences overground pressure, potentially reducing injury risks during running.
The integrity of concrete structures is crucial for public safety and long-term infrastructure. Nondestructive testing (NDT) methods, like ground-penetrating radar (GPR), are commonly used for inspection but face challenges in analyzing complex radargram data. To improve this, we propose ConcreteNet, a convolutional neural network designed for GPR radargram classification. Based on the "Network in Network" architecture with AlexNet as the base model, ConcreteNet detects structural defects more effectively. It trains on radargram data from the Georgia Southern Engineering Research Building and validates using GPR data from the Georgia Department of Transportation. Additionally, creating a publicly accessible GPR radargram dataset helps researchers train deformity detection models. Benchmarking this dataset against advanced classification and object detection networks further enhances GPR-based deformity detection in concrete.
Organophosphorus, such as inositol phosphate (IP), may serve as a source of orthophosphate (OP) in freshwater. The contribution from recalcitrant organic-P to the OP pool has been overlooked due to the lack of tools capable of accurately measuring OP production from organic-P. However, in the absence of OP, specialized enzymes are produced by competent aquatic microorganisms to get OP from organic-P forms. This study aimed to quantify OP production from phytic acid, a surrogate for recalcitrant organic-P, to assess the contribution of recalcitrant P forms to the total OP pool that fuels algal blooms in freshwaters. A fluorescence probe serving as a substrate analog for phytic acid was used to measure the enzymatic activity required for IP mineralization to quantify OP production from IP accurately. Though IP mineralization rates were relatively low, results highlighted the importance of considering recalcitrant organic-P as a viable source for OP.
The “29th of May”, a cultural celebration marking the end of slavery in Upson County, Georgia. It is the oldest documented Emancipation Proclamation celebration in the United States of America, however, little is known about the event outside of middle Georgia. The current study investigates how different birth cohorts understand and engage with this historic event and how the county’s collective memory of the day has changed over time. I conduct focus groups and semi-structured narrative interviews with Black residents of Upson County to gather insights across four generations including (1) Baby Boomers; (2) Generation X; (3) Millennials; and (4) Generation Z. Additionally, the qualitative data is supplemented by an analysis of public documents collected from the Thomaston-Upson Historical Archives. Thematic analysis is performed to explore participants’ perspectives and develop a broader understanding of collective memory around the historic event.
Historically, tourism has been important to the city of Statesboro, reflected by a police patch for the Statesboro police department in the early 20th Century, reading “The Tourist City. Situated at the intersection of Highways 80 and 301, tourism was booming in Statesboro before the construction of Interstate 95. However, tourism has waned over the years as regional development turned attention to other places in South Georgia. Now with incoming regional economic development and projected population growth, Statesboro can rebrand itself and once again emerge as a place of tourism in the area.
There are many ways to generate fractals, such as nonlinear dynamical systems in continuous time (at least 3 rd order) or its discrete analogue known as an iterative map. The latter one is coined as the chaos game, where a sequence of points is created by using a polygon and an initial random point inside the polygon to recursively generate a new point that is sitting at a fixed proportional distance from the previous point and a randomly selected vertex of the polygon. With an appropriate proportional parameter and many iterations, this process generates a fractal shape. In this work, we present algorithms for generating fractals inside an arbitrary regular polygon, inside a polyhedron, and even a polychoron based on restricted vertex replacement for fast fractal generation. In the case of polychoron fractals, we project the fractals onto the 3D space to visualize geometric features. We further extend this idea to projections of fractals onto a surface such as a sphere.
The fourth industrial revolution has transformed manufacturing through cyber-physical technology. This system would allow for enhanced communication and quality in manufacturing environments. A key component of Industry 4.0 is the Internet of Things, which integrates sensors and software with networking capabilities. Despite its effectiveness, many manufacturing devices lack IoT capabilities. This paper proposes a low cost IoT system using a Raspberry Pi to read, analyze, and process sensor data with custom code. Visual programming software is used to display both sensor data and manually entered data, requiring operator judgment. The system's architecture and user interface are presented, demonstrating its potential in manufacturing environments. Potential expansions and further applications are also discussed, highlighting opportunities for innovation and improvement.
The rapid integration of photovoltaic systems into the power grid has become more prevalent, necessitating enhancement for reliable and effective power quality (PQ) control. However, the nonlinear characteristics of the power electronic components (PECs) introduce significant PQ and reliability issues. To mitigate these challenges, this paper proposes a novel PEC controller for shunt active power filters (SAPF) to improve PQ and facilitate the seamless integration of renewables into Georgia power grid. The proposed controller utilizes only two levels of discrete low-pass filters to effectively extracts the fundamental frequency dc component from distorted and unbalanced load currents. The controller achieves faster dynamic performance of less than a quarter-cycle delay, in compliance with IEEE 512 standards. The proposed controller is validated against the well-known synchronous reference frame controller. Also, reliability analysis of the PV’s PEC components is conducted to identify the most reliable and efficient model for assessing the PEC’s reliability.
Lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) performance is heavily influenced by their electrodes' properties, which dictate charge transport, energy storage, and overall efficiency. This study explores dry spray deposition as a solvent-free method for applying MXene coatings to additively manufactured LiB electrodes. By eliminating binders and solvents and structural optimization through additive manufacturing (AM), this approach aims to create a uniform, conductive layer while preserving electrode porosity and reducing processing time. At the submicron to micron scale, van der Waals forces strongly affect particle mixing, impacting the uniformity and deposition quality of MXene coatings. Electrochemical performance is assessed using open circuit voltage (OCV), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to evaluate charge storage and interfacial resistance. By integrating structural optimization through AM with experimental validation, this study advances the understanding of dry powder mixing and highlights MXene coatings' potential for improving LiB electrodes through scalable, solvent-free manufacturing.
This poster will highlight African American history in and around Andersonville, Georgia. African American history begins with the enslaved individuals- and enslaved Black Union soldiers- who built and worked in the Civil War POW camp. After emancipation, a community of Freedmen were given the property and moved in to the abandoned structures of the POW camp, including a hospital. This community went on to establish a Freedmen's school before being forced out by a white mob. Americus and Leesburg are areas steeped in history from the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. The poster highlights the Americus Four- the four first Black students to integrate Americus high school-, the Leesburg Stockade Girls, and the Church Kneel-Ins.
Akashiwo sanguinea is a microalgae that is known to cause red tides or algal blooms that release harmful chemicals into the environment, and Ulva is a genus of green algae that is known to have allelopathic or nullifying effects on these harmful chemicals being released into the environment. The intended experiment focuses on the possible use of Ulva as a nullifying agent to the chemical toxicity of Akashiwo in the presence and absence of live oysters while also observing individual activity in isolated environments. This literature review and meta analysis will be observing previous research that has observed this relationship, with the intention of application in isolated mason jar environments that simulate their native habitat. It is expected that there will be a significant decrease in Akashiwo growth as well as sustained oyster viability in the treatments where they are in the same habitat as the Ulva algae.
This research was undertaken with a study abroad fieldwork in Cox's Bazar District of Bangladesh. The study area is highly susceptible to natural disasters due to its geography, climate, and dense population, including a large refugee population that fled persecution from Myanmar. The research employs mixed methods that integrate Geospatial field data collected using Survey 123 application, field observations, and local information gathered through fieldwork in January 2025. The key findings reveal a serious environmental degradation on local landscapes exacerbating the frequency and severity of landslides and flooding events in the region. These disasters disproportionately affect marginalized communities, often leading to displacement, loss of livelihoods, and increased vulnerability that challenge resilience in the region. These insights highlight the urgency for sustainable ecosystem management and adopt inclusive disaster management to reduce social and environmental vulnerabilities and impacts associated with landslides and flooding in Bangladesh’s one of the most climate sensitive regions
Naphthoquinone compounds are investigated as potential anti-cancer agents due to their ability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and bind to DNA, mechanisms associated with cancer progression. In this study, we tested a series of 1,4-naphthoquinone derivatives in a human breast cancer (BT5) cell line. BT5 cells exhibit elevated LAT1 transporter expression, linked to cancer cells' altered nutrient needs. Two compounds were conjugated to the amino acid tyrosine, an LAT1 substrate, to facilitate selective drug uptake. Cell viability was assessed 48 hours post-treatment using an MTS assay, and IC50 values were calculated to determine potency. Results showed a significant reduction in cell viability in treated groups, consistent with cytotoxic effects reported in other cancer cell lines. These findings highlight the anti-cancer potential of naphthoquinones, particularly in targeting LAT1-mediated drug uptake, and pave the way for future studies on their molecular mechanisms.
Naphthoquinone compounds are one of several core chemical structures that have been investigated as effective cancer therapeutics. A problem with existing drugs is nonspecific targeting of healthy cells. One of the hallmarks of most cancer cells is increased expression of the L-type amino acid transporter (LAT1) to fulfill abnormal nutrition needs. To capitalize on these molecular changes, we developed a panel of naphthoquinone compounds, including LAT-1 derivatives, and examined their potency and specificity in various cell lines. Several naphthoquinone compounds tested, including LAT-1 modified structure synthesized by our group, showed significant impact on cell viability in prostate, breast, and lung cancer lines. Moreover, when tested in non-cancerous HEK293 with low expression of LAT1, the potency was significantly less, suggesting it exhibited specific targeting of cancer cells. We are generating IC50 values and evaluating the specificity of the drug candidates. Future studies will investigate their potential signaling pathways and molecular targets.
The pulp and paper industry is a major contributor to industrial wastewater discharge, necessitating advanced treatment strategies to ensure environmental compliance. This study investigates the application of computational intelligence (CI) models for predicting wastewater treatment performance using real-world operational data. Five CI models—decision trees (DT), random forests (RF), genetic programming (GP), artificial neural networks (ANN), and support vector machines (SVM)—were evaluated for accuracy and reliability. Among them, SVM demonstrated superior predictive performance, effectively capturing complex nonlinear relationships in wastewater treatment processes. The results highlight the potential of CI models to transform industrial data into actionable insights, optimizing treatment efficiency and enabling sustainable water reuse. This research provides a systematic framework for integrating CI techniques into pulp and paper mill wastewater treatment, paving the way for data-driven decision-making and enhanced regulatory compliance.
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide, with nearly 10 million deaths recorded just in 2022. Over the years, significant progress has been made in developing therapies to control cancer cell replication and find effective treatments. However, the unique behaviors of cancer cells, such as uncontrolled growth, immune evasion, and others, make treatment challenging. Additionally, therapies like chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy can damage healthy cells, leading to various side effects. The L-type amino acid transporter (LAT1) is a protein responsible for transporting large, hydrophobic amino acids and is highly expressed in cancer cell tissues. It has been extensively investigated as a potential carrier for delivering drugs across biological barriers and selectively targeting cancer cells over healthy cells. Acridines, which are recognized as promising moieties for anticancer agents, are well known for their potential as antitumor agents. Studies have also shown that 1,2,3-triazole scaffolds can enhance the efficacy of a biologically active unit. In this work we are using 1,2,3-triazoles as molecular linkers in the synthesis of acridine-amino acid drug assemblies with the goal of achieving LAT1-mediated drug uptake. Current efforts in our synthetic approach to these assemblies will be presented.
Anticancer potential of naphthoquinone derivatives against PC3 cells, reduces cell viability, interrupts cell cycles, and activates apoptotic pathways. L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) overexpressed in cancer cells, transports amino acids into cancerous cells including PC3. Transfer of amino acids via LAT1 activates the mTOR signaling pathway, which controls cell growth and survival in cancerous cells. Inhibiting LAT1 will lower mTOR activity that disrupts a critical pathway for cancer cell proliferation and survival. Anti-neoplastic effects of 11 synthesized compounds were investigated in vitro. PC3 cells were treated, and cell viability was measured using the MTS assay. Cell growth, confluency and cell counts were monitored. Cell viability was reduced in 9 compounds between 26-30%, indicating their cytotoxic effects. HEK293 cells were tested and showed a preference in targeting and killing cancer cells with low adverse effects on healthy cells. Compounds with reduced cell viability in PC3 and increase cell viability in HEK293 have a significant potential as anti-cancer drugs for prostate cancer.
This study examines the impact of community-engaged water and health education activities on risk perception and cancer screening intentions among private well users. With an estimated 1.7 million Georgians relying on unregulated private wells, environmental contaminants such as radon, arsenic, and nitrate pose potential health risks that are often overlooked in cancer prevention efforts. Traditional screening initiatives emphasize behavioral and demographic risk factors but fail to incorporate environmental exposures that may contribute to cancer risk. Given the disparities in cancer screening rates in rural Georgia, where well water reliance is high, this research aims to bridge the gap between environmental risk communication and preventive health behaviors. It is expected that increased awareness of water quality hazards will enhance risk perception and encourage screening participation. Findings from this study have the potential to inform targeted interventions that integrate environmental health education into cancer prevention frameworks, fostering more comprehensive public health strategies.
The study investigates vitamin C’s impact on Vero cells, a kidney cell line from green monkey, commonly used in vaccine production. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is essential for collagen biosynthesis, hydroxylation reactions and free radical scavenging, but humans must obtain it through diet due to inactive gluconolactone oxidase (GULO) gene. Vero cells were cultured in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium (DMEM) to examine Vitamin C’s effect on cell attachment and growth. A 10mM of vitamin C stock solution was prepared and MTT assays were conducted to assess cell viability. Preliminary results indicate that Vitamin C significantly inhibits vero cell growth with a notable reduction in proliferation evident at 24 hours and sustained throughout the treatment period. These finding suggest that vitamin C plays a critical role in modulating cellular processes related to immune function and disease prevention.
Additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing of metallic parts is rapidly growing among the various parts and components which are being fabricated in various industries. One of the major challenges of wide adoption of this technology is the quality and integrity of the produced parts. Material testing and characterization based on developed codes and standards are commonly used to investigate the final properties of the parts. Among the various methodologies for material testing, nondestructive testing (NDT) provides the advantage of noninvasive investigations. NDT using ultrasonic waves (called ultrasonic testing (UT)) has been used in different modes for this purpose. The major parameter in UT is how the ultrasonic waves are propagating through the material which has a direct relation to the materials properties such as density and elasticity. Since it has been proved that changes in AM process parameters cause variations in material properties of the parts, it is assumed that the ultrasonic wave propagation must be influenced as well. The goal of this project is to investigate and quantify the influence of AM process parameters on variation of ultrasonic wave propagation and provide an interpretation of its effect on application of NDT for AM quality inspection and control. for AM quality inspection and control.
This mixed-methods study examines how athletes manage their self-presentation on Instagram. The study combines a qualitative analysis of former NFL player Taylor Lewan’s Instagram feed with a quantitative content analysis of the social media pages of 64 athletes representing 17 different sports. Quantitative data was collected by students in the spring 2024 SOCI 4338 Sport, Culture, and Society class using a shared codebook to classify social media posts made on Instagram between April 2023 through March 2024. Codes included: sport, advertising, family, advocacy, leisure, fashion, and others. The research reported here examines the relationship between the gender of an athlete and their posts and the relationship between the type of sport and the content of their Instagram posts. Quantitative analysis tests two hypotheses: 1) male athletes will have more advertising posts than female athletes, and 2) athletes in strength sports will have more sports-related posts.
nmalcom@georgiasouthern.edu, Waters College of Public Health
She's not my ideal: Mixed messages about CrossFit womenSocial media is replacing traditional print media (Bell & Dittmar, 2011). Social media offers immediate news, allows space for people to interact, enables individuals to be generators and recipients of content, and provides a... Read More →
This research focuses on transforming an electric vehicle into an autonomous development platform by integrating hardware and software solutions. The system is built using ROS 2, providing a modular and scalable framework for autonomous functionalities. An NVIDIA Jetson Orin serves as the primary onboard computing unit, enabling real-time perception and decision-making. The perception stack is enhanced with an Ouster OS0 LiDAR and a radar sensor, providing robust environmental awareness in dynamic scenarios. The platform will serve as a foundation for research in autonomous navigation, sensor fusion, and the advancement of ADAS features, including pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assistance, and collision avoidance.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) present significant water contamination challenges due to their environmental persistence and health implications. This study evaluates the sustainability of granular activated carbon (GAC) and ion exchange (IX) remediation technologies through comprehensive cost and environmental impact assessments. System size emerges as a critical factor influencing sustainability outcomes through economies of scale and environmental trade-offs. Current cost estimation models like the EPA's Work Breakdown Structure approach lack sufficient uncertainty and sensitivity analyses, limiting their applicability across variable conditions. Our findings demonstrate that integrating life cycle assessment (LCA) with techno-economic analysis (TEA) provides more robust decision-making tools for PFAS treatment selection. The research addresses regulatory frameworks across jurisdictions, treatment media variability, and operational considerations. These insights enable water utilities, policymakers, and researchers to optimize PFAS remediation strategies by balancing economic constraints with environmental objectives, advancing more sustainable water treatment approaches.
Drug abuse in America affects rural areas with low economic and social resources, such as Georgia’s shrimping communities. Shrimpers have felt pressures from high gas prices, low shrimp costs, and an aging workforce for a decade. Now local drug use rates add to their stress. Job hardships like long hours, strenuous labor, and unpredictable hours, combined with lack of economic advancement and loss of social structures, make the industry prone to drug use. This project uses oral histories from Georgia shrimpers to address how drug use impacts the industry, which drugs are used, and why some shrimpers turned to drugs.
The Schreger pattern is a microstructural feature unique to proboscidean dentin. Previous studies have attempted to use characteristics of the Schreger pattern (qualitative descriptions and the angle made by intersecting Schreger lines) to distinguish among proboscidean species, with varying degrees of success. In Columbian mammoths (Mammuthus columbi), for example, the Schreger angle tends to be acute and the pattern resembles a “V,” but in American mastodons (Mammut americanum) the Schreger angle tends to be obtuse and the pattern resembles an “X” or a checkerboard. The aim of this project is to qualitatively and quantitatively describe the Schreger pattern in tusks of Pacific mastodons (Mammut pacificus). The Pacific mastodon, recognized as distinct from its contemporary American mastodon (Mammut americanum) in 2019, is currently known from the Irvingtonian and Rancholabrean of western North America. It is expected that Schreger pattern characteristics are shared between M. pacificus and M. americanum, but no published data supports this hypothesis. The Grizzly Ridge mastodon, housed in the Western Science Center (Hemet, CA), is an Irvingtonian-aged Pacific mastodon discovered near San Francisco, CA. A 3-cm thick transverse cross section of the tusk, with a major diameter of 14.5 cm and a minor diameter of 13.5 cm, was removed for analysis of the Schreger pattern. The section includes the cementum-dentin junction (CDJ) and the pulp cavity. Four thin sections will be made from the transverse section of the tusk at increasing distances from the tusk exterior (CDJ) so that any variation in Schreger pattern from the CDJ to the pulp cavity will be captured. Characteristics of the Schreger pattern will be compared to data from the literature to assess whether there is qualitative or quantitative overlap between Pacific and American mastodons and/or between Pacific mastodons and Columbian mammoths (Mammuthus columbi) to determine if Schreger patterns may be used to distinguish among these contemporary proboscidean species. If little to no overlap exists between Pacific mastodons and Columbian mammoths, then the Schreger pattern may aid in species identification for fossil assemblages containing both species, a common occurrence in the Pleistocene of North America.
In this work the use of a tung oil-based resin as a binder for binder jet 3D printing is investigated, exploring the potential for an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic binders. The resin formulation was prepared by combining tung oil, n-butyl methacrylate, divinylbenzene, and di-tert butyl peroxide in precise proportions. 13 different sands were evaluated as the printing material.
Compression tests and ultrasonic analysis were used to analyze mechanical properties and determine the integrity of the materials. With peak compressive strengths of 7.2 MPa, the resin showed excellent adherence. After 225 minutes of heating the resin, the optimal range of 10–14 cP for the viscosity was achieved, and storage trials demonstrated improved stability in a freezer.
This research establishes that tung oil-based resin is promising for binder jet 3D printing applications. Its ability to form composites with different sands, along with sustainability and optimization, develops solutions for additive manufacturing.
Corals are vital ecosystem engineers, supporting marine biodiversity. With over 60% of corals at risk, increasing maritime traffic poses significant threats. Assessment of the spatial relationship between cold-water coral reefs and maritime infrastructure along the U.S. East Coast and Gulf of Mexico will be conducted using GIS. It will map coral reef locations, shipping lanes, and port centers. Buffer and hotspot analyses will be utilized to identify regions most at risk of maritime activity by showing low, medium, and immediate risk areas. The research will provide critical data on the geospatial correlation between cold-water corals and maritime infrastructure, supporting conservation strategies and sustainable development. Previous studies have shown negative effects of shipping on tropical coral reefs, but limited research exists on cold-water corals along the U.S. coastline. It is hypothesized that areas with high shipping activity and proximity to ports will exhibit the greatest risk of degradation.
The aviation industry seeks sustainable fuel alternatives to reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact. This study investigates the combustion characteristics of Hydro-processed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) compared to conventional Jet-A, evaluating its feasibility as an eco-friendly alternative. Fuel properties including freezing point, density, viscosity, and calorific value were analyzed using standardized methods. HEFA exhibits a lower heating value of 40.18 MJ/kg which is slightly lower than Jet-A. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that HEFA has higher volatility and a reduced secondary endothermic reaction. Constant Volume Combustion Chamber (CVCC) testing showed that HEFA has a shorter ignition delay (2.932 ms) and combustion delay (4.275 ms) than Jet-A (3.18ms and 4.829 ms respectively). It was also found that HEFA has a higher derived cetane number (DCN) than Jet-A at 55.8 compared to 49.47, indicating improved autoignition properties. These results highlight HEFA’s potential as a drop in sustainable aviation fuel for conventional Jet-A.
Temperature is a critical environmental factor that influences the distribution and abundance of aquatic organisms. The response of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) to changes in water temperature has been well documented for populations north of the Carolinas, showing fish partaking in seasonal coastal migrations to stay within their preferred temperature range. However, populations in the Southeastern United States are non-migratory, instead remaining in rivers and estuaries with limited options for thermal refuge as water temperatures continue to rise due to climate change. Previous studies have shown physiological performance is negatively affected by temperature. As performance is tightly connected to cardiorespiratory fitness, my study aims to investigate the effect of temperature on the membrane fragility of the red blood cells by performing an osmotic fragility test on blood collected from fish acclimated to three temperatures (20, 25, and 30℃). Data is currently being collected and analyzed to determine results.
This study aims to investigate perceptions of police emotionality and credibility. A total of 132 undergraduate psychology students participated in an online experiment via Qualtrics. Participants read three vignettes depicting interpersonal conflicts, including one involving a police officer. The officer’s race (Black or White) and gender (male or female) were manipulated. After each vignette, participants rated individuals on emotionality and credibility. Then, they completed the Ten-Item Personality Inventory and a demographic questionnaire. Agreeableness significantly predicted lower police credibility ratings, while openness trended negatively. Other personality traits (conscientiousness, extraversion, emotional stability) showed no effects. Findings highlight the role of personality in shaping perceptions of law enforcement. These findings suggest that personality influences how individuals perceive police credibility, potentially shaping attitudes toward law enforcement. Understanding these biases may help inform police-community relations and public trust in officers.
Ferritin and transferrin are the two proteins that control iron metabolism. If all their binding sites are occupied, excess iron circulates in the bloodstream. This iron overloaded state leads to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress. Free iron can be removed from the body by iron chelation therapy, which involves adding a molecule that chelates iron. Today, there are several iron chelators on the market but many are expensive and painful to administer. Our laboratory seeks new iron chelators. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has numerous biochemical properties serving as an antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and metal chelation compound. The purpose of this research is to determine if curcumin is a viable candidate for iron chelation therapy. Results will be presented to demonstrate curcumin’s ability to remove iron from ferritin and transferrin, along with its ability to remove free iron within a solution.
This literature review examines how U.S. mental health research and treatment rely on Western, Eurocentric methods that have marginalized American Indian/Alaska Native communities (Thambinathan and Kinsella, 2021). Datta (2018, p. 2) describes decolonization as, “an on-going process of becoming, unlearning, and relearning regarding who we are as a researcher and educator, and taking responsibilities for participants”. Decolonization theory recenters Indigenous epistemologies, grants Native people authority over cultural protocol versus academic protocol, and gives them ownership over this knowledge with the ability to use it to benefit their community. Decolonization encourages acceptance of practice-based evidence, alongside participatory action research, instead of relying only on evidence-based practices. (Datta, 2018; Friesen et al., 2011). This allows the development and funding of culturally responsive methods, and frameworks. Cultural competency and humility among non-Native researchers are crucial for successful collaborations that lead to understanding and eventual change.
References Datta, R. (2018). Decolonizing both researcher and research and its effectiveness in Indigenous research. Research Ethics, 14(2), 1-24. https://doi.org/10.1177/1747016117733296
Friesen, B. J., Cross, T. L., Jivanjee, P. R., Gowen, L. K., Bandurraga, A., Bastomski, S., Matthew, C., & Maher, N. J. (2011). More than a nice thing to do: A practice-based evidence approach to outcome evaluation in native youth and family programs.
Privacy policies are often lengthy and complex, making them difficult for non-experts to read and understand, leading to a lack of transparency in data collection and sharing. As online privacy concerns grow, automated tools are needed to analyze these policies and identify risks. This study explores interactive graph visualizations to enhance user understanding by structuring policy terms as graphs, making complex relationships more accessible (RQ1). We apply machine learning and graph mining techniques to uncover key themes like User Activity, Device Information, and Media & Location (RQ2). Our findings show that graph-based clustering improves policy interpretability, revealing patterns in user tracking, device data sharing, and third-party disclosures. This research helps create tools for checking privacy policies by combining graph-based clustering, semantic analysis, and interactive visualizations to spot misleading practices, improve compliance with regulations, and support legal investigations, ultimately strengthening accountability in data management.
Additive manufacturing has allowed the deployment of novel construction materials impractical or impossible to use with previous manufacturing technologies, such as biomaterials, which creates the potential for printing both animal and human organs. For high-precision, high-risk applications such as bioprinting organ material, quantifying and verifying the quality and structural integrity of a printed specimen is both extremely important, and extremely challenging. This research project is meant to develop an open-source, reproduceable 3D Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printer for use with biological ink hydrogel printing materials fit for use in constructing specimens and allowing them to be excited for video vibrometry, a process of analyzing characteristic vibratory frequency response data computed from video footage, without needing to move printed specimens to a discrete apparatus. The printer must be capable of supporting the specimen while it is excited in-place, where it was printed, while allowing a high-speed camera to clearly see the specimen on the build-plate with enough fidelity and a great enough field of view that video vibrometry can be reliably performed.
The goal of this project is to develop novel anticancer therapeutics based on amino acid conjugates with 1,4-naphthoquinones. Specifically, this work seeks to take advantage of the high nutrient needs of cancer cells through the design of drugs that mimic the natural substrates of an amino acid transporter, L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1). LAT1 functions as a mediator for the uptake of crucial amino acids, and its expression is usually up-regulated in cancer cells and with the disease progression. Naphthoquinones are reported to play a crucial role in chemical defenses in plants and in bio-oxidative processes; examples include lapachol, shikonin and juglone which have been utilized traditionally for their diverse pharmacological properties (antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and anticancer activities). This research has two main objectives, (1) designing and synthesizing amino acid-1,4-naphthoquinone conjugates and analogues of these derivatives, and (2) investigating the anticancer activities of the molecules through a structure-activity relationship study. During this study, tyrosine, a natural LAT1 substrate, is used for the amino acid backbone, and known and novel naphthoquinone-based molecules are synthesized. The synthetic strategy for making the compounds and data on structural characterizations are presented.
This study aims to investigate the impact of an empathetic intervention on pre-service teachers to sideline bias against students diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Behaviors typically associated with ADHD, such as inattention and hyperactivity, correspond to two primary categories that teachers identify as disruptive in the classroom (Sun & Shek, 2012). Numerous studies have demonstrated evidence of discrimination in the classroom against students diagnosed with ADHD (Cortnett-Ruiz & Hendricks, 1993; Metzger & Hamilton, 2021). Moreover, teachers frequently report feeling unprepared to support these students and experience increased stress levels (Green et al., 2002; Kirchhoff, 2023). Context-based interventions have successfully sidelined bias by emphasizing professional and situational values over personal beliefs (Okonofua et al., 2022). The present study aims to determine whether the context-based intervention will decrease disciplinary disparities between students with and without an ADHD diagnosis.
Inspection of complex geometries is always a challenge because of their curved shapes, sharp edges, internal cavities, small ridges, and varying thicknesses. Hidden defects in these areas can severely compromise the structural integrity of the products. Conventional UT methods face issues with defect detection because of the probe’s incapability to align with unconventional shapes and beam penetration limitations. Customizing wedges can address some challenges; however, fabricating wedges that precisely match part surfaces is often impractical. At the same time, due to the design inconsistency and rough surface of many industrial components, contact method NDT cannot accurately detect anomalies, which is risky if the product is used in critical areas like bridge joints or compressor parts.
Water is considered a superior medium for transmitting ultrasound waves when the specimen is submerged. This study explores the integration of curvilinear and 3D scanning with immersion ultrasonic testing to enhance defect detection in complex geometries. The curvilinear approach enables precise contour testing, while 3D scanning helps map geometry variations for optimized probe positioning. The results highlight the potential of these advanced scanning techniques in overcoming inspection limitations and improving non-destructive evaluation of complex-shaped parts.
Effects of Short-term Candle Burning on Lung Function and Exhaled eNO in a Typical Home Environment among Residents
Authors: Dorothy Seybold, Dalton Crunkelton, Elena Ortez, Megan Nicol, Kenya Watson, Atin Adhikari Ph.D. Background and Objectives: Some chronic respiratory conditions may be exacerbated by particulate matter emitted from burning candles. This study assesses candle usage on lung function and exhaled nitric oxide levels (eNO) in asthmatics and non-asthmatics. Methods: We measured eNO, FVC, and FEV1% before and after typical candle-burning exposure for 60 minutes, using a NIOX Vero eNO monitor and a spirometer. Particulate matter (PM) in the 0.3-10 µm size range was monitored in parallel. Results: Preliminary results indicate different trends for asthmatic and non-asthmatic study participants: Before candle burning: 1) Asthmatics – eNO: 10.5±1.12ppb; FVC: 3.73±0.55L; FEV1: 66.3±13.4L; 1) Non-Asthmatics – eNO: 10.3±6.2ppb; FVC:4.20±1.0L; FEV1: 38.3±10.4L After candle burning: 1) Asthmatics – eNO:9.0±1.9ppb; FVC:3.21±0.5L; FEV1:57.6±13.9L; 1) Non-Asthmatics – eNO: 8.8±3.8ppb; FVC:3.5±1.0L; FEV1:37.2±12.7L. Total mean(±SD) PM concentrations ranged from 6,431,449±8,023179 to 7,652,650±10,118,427/m3. Conclusions: Short-term exposure to burning candles may negatively impact lung function, triggering inflammation in the respiratory tracts differently in asthmatics compared to non-asthmatics.
Obesity and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are major global health challenges, necessitating effective pharmacological interventions. Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, has shown potential for significant weight loss and cardiovascular benefits. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the effectiveness of semaglutide in reducing body weight and improving cardiovascular outcomes by synthesizing evidence from interventional studies. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov will be conducted to identify randomized controlled trials and interventional studies. Primary outcomes include weight reduction, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), glycemic control, and safety. Data will be analyzed using a random-effects model to determine pooled effect estimates. Findings from this study will contribute to understanding semaglutide’s role in obesity and cardiovascular risk management, informing clinical decision-making and future research on its long-term benefits and safety profile.
Salt marsh dieback is an increasing issue impacting coastal ecosystems, with significant consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem services. This study aims to utilize spatiotemporal changes in vegetation indices to monitor dieback overtime and identify a threshold indicating salt marsh dieback along the Georgia coast using historical Landsat imagery from 1985 to 2023. Focusing on three known dieback locations along the Georgia coast: Gray’s Creek, Saint Simons Island, and Point Peter, this research analyzed long-term vegetation trends, assessed the effectiveness of various Vegetation Indices in detecting marsh dieback, and explored spatiotemporal variability to capture the onset, progression, and recovery of dieback. Image preprocessing techniques included comparing images with tide data, subsetting, and masking for clouds and water. Google Earth Engine was utilized for large-scale data processing, while statistical analyses were performed in R. The study identified a threshold at which healthy marshes transition to dieback, enhancing understanding of salt marsh vulnerability and demonstrating the utility of remote sensing for marsh monitoring. This research will have significant implications for the conservation and management of salt marsh ecosystems
The ability to evaluate infrastructures without altering or damaging the structure is becoming increasingly important and useful for infrastructure maintenance. The technique to analyze and test materials for weaknesses without causing destruction is referred to as non-destructive evaluation or testing (NDT&E). Specifically, a common method of this type of inspection is called ground penetrating radar (GPR), which is desired in many construction applications. With the use of electromagnetic energy, GPR has the capability to locate buried objects in materials because of the differences in electrical and magnetic properties that are encountered. Valuable data can be obtained on these subsurface objects, allowing for an understanding on the properties and making proper judgment on the structure possible. This study explores the approaches in which GPR has been implemented for the assessment of the bridge deck in the southeast United States. Through different data acquisition and processing techniques, results show that GPR is very successful in collecting information to verify the state and condition of these materials.
The contamination of aquatic ecosystems with antibiotic residues poses significant risks to human and ecological health. This study explores the modification of alginate using three ionic liquids (ILs) butyl methyl imidazolium (BMIm), hexyl methyl imidazolium (HMIm), and octyl methyl imidazolium (OMIm) to develop IL-alginate composites for fluoroquinolone antibiotic removal from water. ILs, organic salts with tunable physicochemical properties, particularly hydrophobicity, influence interactions with contaminants. Alginate, a biocompatible and cost-effective polysaccharide, is widely used in environmental applications due to its gel-forming ability. IL-alginate composites, synthesized with varying IL ratios and crosslinked using calcium chloride, will be characterized using FTIR, SEM, TGA, and BET analyses to assess chemical composition, surface morphology, thermal stability, and porosity. Adsorption studies under different conditions will evaluate how IL alkyl chain length affects composite hydrophobicity and adsorption efficiency. This research aims to optimize IL-alginate composites for antibiotic removal, providing insights into IL structure-function relationships and advancing sustainable water treatment technologies.
tb30388@georgiasouthern.edu, College of Science and Mathematics
I am Taiwo Bakare-Abidola, a passionate environmental scientist and Ph.D student at Georgia Southern University. My academic journey and professional background span environmental health, water and wastewater treatment, pollution monitoring, and sustainable development. I am especially... Read More →
During my experience in my capstone class, the instructor introduced us to and utilized a different way of running the classroom and learning. In brief, the case method is a way of teaching and learning where students are presented with a case study which is something from real life, to critically think about and discuss it. I think learning in this method is more beneficial than traditional lectures, especially for business students, because we are learning how to bounce ideas off of one another and hear everyone's perspective on a topic. Because there is not necessarily a correct answer for these cases, everyone comes to class with different opinions and different ways of having interpreted the case.
Breast cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. This has led to the continuous search for novel and effective therapeutic agents. Triazoles, a class of five-membered heterocyclic compounds containing three nitrogen atoms, have demonstrated significant anticancer potential due to their ability to inhibit key biological pathways involved in tumor progression. This study investigates the cytotoxic effects of various triazole derivatives on breast cancer cells, assessing their efficacy through in vitro assays. Previous studies suggest that specific triazole derivatives exhibit some anticancer activity, highlighting their potential as therapeutic agents for breast cancer treatment. Further studies are warranted to elucidate their molecular targets and optimize their pharmacological properties.
Construction sites face persistent safety challenges, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. In the U.S., these concerns are heightened due to the high volume of construction projects and complex working conditions. This study analyzes 1,963 OSHA-reported construction incidents in the Southeastern U.S. using five Machine Learning (ML) techniques to classify fatal and non-fatal incidents. Random forest and decision trees achieved the highest accuracy, with random forest outperforming all models. Feature importance analysis identified age, height, occupation, and event type as key predictors of injury severity. These findings highlight the potential of ML models in providing predictive insights for proactive safety management. By identifying high-risk factors associated with severe injuries, this research contributes to data-driven safety interventions and policy improvements aimed at reducing incident rates and enhancing targeted risk assessment and preventive strategies on construction sites.
The microbial activity on shopping cart handles fluctuates with seasons and environmental factors, yet this relationship remains underexplored. We hypothesize that seasonal variations in ultraviolet radiation (UV), relative humidity (RH), and temperature (T) significantly influence microbial activity on shopping cart handles, thereby increasing the likelihood of microbial contamination through cross-touching. Methodology: Surface microbial contamination was assessed using adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence assay (n = 10 per test) to quantify microbial activity in Relative Light Units (RLUs/cm2). Ambient T, RH, wind speed (WS), and UV, were measured with a handheld multimeter. Results: The range of microbial activity (RLU/cm2) was 4.95 ± 2.91 in winter and 7.80 ± 3.55 in spring. In winter, UV (mW/cm²) was 1.86 ± 0.96 and 2.08 ± 0.91 in spring. Conclusion: Seasonal variations in the outdoor exposure of shopping carts to T, RH, WS, and UV can significantly influence microbial activity on shopping cart handles.
With the growing use of personal care products like sunscreens, chemical pollutants such as UV blockers are increasingly found in aquatic environments. Compounds like THB (2,3,4-trihydroxybenzophenone) and DHMB (2,2′-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone),), commonly used in sunscreens, have been detected in water, raising environmental concerns. This project aims to develop an eco-friendly method for their removal using alginate beads modified with a deep eutectic solvent (DES) as adsorbents. The alginate-DES composite material was synthesized and characterized for its ability to adsorb THB and DHMB. Adsorption efficiency was evaluated through UV-Vis spectroscopy, optimizing parameters like pH, salinity, and adsorbent dosage. The results showed that the alginate-DES composite effectively removed UV blockers, demonstrating its potential as a green, sustainable solution for water treatment and the removal of chemical pollutants.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended the use of well-fitting masks by the public to enhance source control and mitigate the airborne transmission of viral particles. In recent years, low-cost sensors have been widely studied due to their affordability, compact size, and moderate measurement accuracy. This study examines cost-effective methods for evaluating mask barrier efficacy across different mask types and breathing rates by quantifying the outward leakage of particulate matter within the fine particle size range. 3-ply disposable surgical masks and an N95 Filtering Facepiece Respirator (FFR) were selected. Outward leakage data were collected using a low-cost PM sensor (Alphasense, OPC-N3) and a TSI Portacount Pro (TSI, 8038) as a reference. Preliminary results indicated that both devices effectively measure particle concentrations and detect outward leakage across different mask types, demonstrating their potential for assessing mask performance in real-world settings.
Ocean acidification (OA), driven by rising CO₂, lowers ocean pH and impacts calcifying organisms like the Scleractinian coral Oculina arbuscula. A short pulse of extremely low pH can disrupt skeletal deposition, which can occur in dynamic environments such as estuaries, upwelling zones, and polar waters. The effects of a short-term extreme low-pH pulse on Oculina arbuscula were examined under laboratory conditions by measuring buoyant weight and surface area, comparing three treatments: a brief pH pulse of 6.25 from a pH 7.8, a sustained pH of 7.8, and a control pH of 8.1. A one-way ANOVA test demonstrated no significant effect of pH on the growth of corals exposed to the 6.25 pH pulse (F(2,6) = 1.17, p = 0.37). These results suggest that O. arbuscula may tolerate brief extreme acidification without significant physiological impairment.
During WWI, Black soldiers were drafted at a rate that was proportionally much higher than White soldiers. For those Black soldiers who never got to return home, their memory has almost been wholly erased. Black families were able to remember the ultimate sacrifice their soldiers committed; however, especially in the rural, deep South, only white soldiers who died were commemorated. Using letters written by a mother to her son during WWI, the life of James Bennett comes to fruition in a way that is not possible for most African American Soldiers who died during WWI. However, due to conflicting primary resources, the status of James Bennett has been uncertain concerning race, birthplace, and the circumstances of his death. This poster aims to understand how historical resources provide contexts to modern-day archival mysteries by utilizing the Bennett Family Papers housed in Special Collections at the Zach S. Henderson Library.
Predictive analytics has emerged as a transformative tool across industries, driving innovation and fostering data-driven decision-making. This scoping review explores diverse applications of predictive analytics, machine learning, and deep learning, highlighting their roles in enhancing operational efficiency, market expansion, profitability, and strategic planning. Predictive models such as decision trees, gradient boosting, and hybrid systems like Grey-Markov forecasting demonstrate exceptional precision in forecasting trends and optimizing operations, particularly in uncertain and competitive environments. Applications in smart buildings, business intelligence, and consumer sentiment analysis showcase how real-time data and machine learning enhance energy efficiency, inventory management, and risk mitigation. Deep learning models, including CNN and LSTM, excel in unstructured data analysis, offering high accuracy in predicting consumer behavior and guiding business strategies. Despite challenges such as data privacy and organizational resistance, the integration of advanced analytics methodologies underscores their scalability, adaptability, and transformative potential. This review consolidates key research contributions, illustrating the impact of predictive analytics in driving business growth, refining operational excellence, and achieving sustained competitive advantage in a data-driven landscape.
Heavy metal contamination remains a critical environmental and public health concern due to its enduring presence, bioaccumulation in living organisms, and inherent toxicity. Traditional detection methods often struggle with complex sample preparation, high costs, and lengthy analysis times. In contrast, fluorescence-based sensing offers a promising avenue for rapid, sensitive, and real-time heavy metal monitoring. This study will explore and demonstrate novel applications of fluorescence-based techniques, with a specific focus on developing and implementing GUMBOS sensors and fluorescent sensor arrays to achieve significant improvements in heavy metal detection, discrimination and quantification.
In our rapidly-advancing technological world, little is known about school safety planning in online school settings. We expanded the Crisis Event Perception Survey (CEPS) to the Sustainable, Accessible, Feasible, and Effective (SAFE) Crisis Event Perceptions Survey to assess verbal, physical, relational, and cyberbullying prevalence and administrator preparedness in online school settings. We found that almost half of school administrators assessed were untrained in responding to physical (48%) and relational (43%) bullying and approximately one-third of school administrators surveyed felt unprepared to address physical and/or relational bullying in online schools. Furthermore, we found that only about half of administrators are trained about physical and sexual abuse. These results could be used to inform prevention and intervention methods for various types of bullying and abuse that occur in online school settings. We suggest an integrated, multisystemic approach to address familial, social, school, and community risk factors.
Chemical communication is one of the main forms of communication in squamate reptiles, yet little is known about it in lizards. One way lizards utilize chemical communication is through their femoral pore secretions, and the lipid components have been shown to be highly variable across species. The Florida scrub lizard (Sceloporus woodi) is listed as near-threatened by the IUCN, yet persists in healthy populations within the Ocala National Forest in central Florida. Little research has been done on their chemical communication. During the summer of 2025, I will catch lizards from two habitat types (longleaf pine forests and Florida scrub) and a management area and extract their femoral pore secretions. I will transport the vials to Georgia Southern University and analyse them via gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy. My goal is to determine the lipid composition of the secretions of S. woodi and compare them across habitat types.
The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a widely used diagnostic technique due to its high sensitivity and specificity. However, its reliance on natural enzymes like horseradish peroxidase (HRP) poses limitations, including poor stability under harsh conditions and high production costs. This study explores metallic nanoparticles, including gold (Au), palladium (Pd), and platinum (Pt) nanoparticles, as peroxidase mimics in ELISA systems. Their peroxidase-like activity was evaluated through catalytic oxidation of 3,3', 5,5' tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. Then these NPs were integrated into the ELISA platform through conjugating detection antibodies to the NP surface using established bioconjugation techniques. The developed nanozyme-based ELISA exhibited enhanced sensitivity, lower detection limits, and robust performance after prolonged storage, compared to HRP-based ELISA. This approach promises more stable, cost-effective, and accessible diagnostic assays, potentially transforming ELISA applications into clinical diagnostics, point-of-care testing, and resource-limited settings.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition that imposes significant emotional and financial burdens on patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is often a precursor to AD, making early diagnosis crucial for managing dementia and slowing disease progression. However, current diagnostic methods struggle to integrate diverse risk factors, including genetics, age, family history, lifestyle, environment, comorbidities, mental health, and emerging AD biomarkers. This research applies machine learning to combine these heterogeneous factors and predict the progression from MCI to AD. The findings could contribute to earlier interventions and reduce the financial strain of AD on healthcare systems.
Data plays a vital role in research, providing valuable insights that guide decision-making. However, raw data is often messy and unstructured, making it difficult to use effectively. That’s why data preprocessing is an essential step, it helps organize the data, ensuring consistency and improving the performance of machine learning models, even though it can be time-consuming. This project explores how selected features can improve the accuracy of machine learning models. We are using an existing structured dataset from Amazon review and focused on identifying features in the data that can improve predictions. In addition, we will train machine learning models or experiment with automated machine learning (AutoML) tools. Our goal is to build models that not only perform well during training but also make accurate predictions on new data. This study emphasizes the value of selecting the right features to create reliable and effective machine learning models.
The D4N+ will elevate synthesis and biomedical research at Georgia Southern University by supporting a network of chemists, biochemists, biophysicists, and biologists with a shared goal of developing and promoting potential therapeutics. The D4N+ is a hub for highly collaborative research driven by discovery and informed by data towards the design of novel drugs for the benefit of society. It will leverage the current strengths in synthetic organic chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, and computational chemistry through a network of collaborative investigators and accelerate the transition from “beaker to bench” and ultimately from “bench to bedside.”
Education majors and a University faculty member received funding to create free, open educational mathematics resources for Georgia parents of K-2 students. Undergraduate students deepened their understanding of mathematics standards and created customized tasks aligned with grade-level expectations. These resources were housed in a Georgia Southern Library Guide, accessible to anyone. Since its launch in April 2024, we have analyzed usage trends and identified significant patterns in engagement and resource utilization. Our analysis indicates shifts in user interactions with the Libguide, prompting us to explore the underlying causes. We hypothesize that changes in educational strategies and parental engagement may have influenced user behavior. This raises important questions: What factors contributed to these shifts? How can we improve accessibility and navigation? To address these questions, we propose adding feedback forms and surveys to enhance the Libguide and better support the academic success of K-2 students.
The purpose of this study was to assess factors that affect health status among preschool children in rural Honduras. The majority of people in Honduras (62.8%) live below the poverty line. Previous research has demonstrated the role of household environment and sanitation in the health status of children in rural Honduran communities (Koers, 2009). Challenges in rural Honduras include lack of safe drinking water, low literacy rates, and lack of access to nutritious food (Sanchez et al., 2016). Our research study consisted of secondary analyses of data collected in Spring 2021 in rural Honduras. The majority of participants (89.5%) live in rural areas. Approximately a third of the children (30.8%) are 0-12 months old. Only 11.6% of the Honduran children have indoor toilets. Participants reported 76% of households do not have refrigerators. This study highlights the concerns of health struggles in Honduras.
The performance of water-reducible alkyd paints is significantly influenced by pigment particle size, impacting key properties such as adhesion, sag resistance, and overall appearance. This study focuses on optimizing particle size through controlled pigment milling conditions and evaluating its effect on paint performance. Multiple milling trials were conducted using varied bead loads, container sizes, and blade configurations to achieve a target particle size below 10 microns. The Mastersizer Xplorer was used to analyze particle distribution, while adhesion and sag resistance were assessed using tape tests and ASTM standard sag meters. Results demonstrate that finer particle sizes enhance substrate adhesion and reduce sagging, ultimately improving paint consistency and appearance. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing batch production in industrial coatings.
Cancer focused research continues to attract a lot of attention. Challenges with treating the disease are due in part to cancer cells’ capacity to develop resistance to treatment and to type-specific cellular mechanisms that require focused therapies. A promising target in the development of cancer therapeutics is the L-type amino acids transporter 1 (LAT1). LAT1 is overexpressed in most cancers and plays a crucial role in the uptake of essential amino acids needed for growth and proliferation. In an effort to minimize side effects and circumvent the capacity for cancer cells to develop treatment-resistance, this study aims to exploit LAT1 for the selective delivery of therapeutic agents to cancer cells. This work will synthesize prodrugs integrating 1,4-naphthoquinones with known anticancer properties with LAT1-compatible amino acids such as tyrosine, essentially designing amino acid-naphthoquinone derivatives that mimic LAT1 substrates. This approach holds the potential to improve therapeutic outcomes by leveraging LAT1’s role in amino acid transport to target cancers with greater precision. The presentation will discuss current results in the synthetic approach for making the derivatives and the structural characterization of the compounds.
This presentation highlights the design of my doctoral research utilizing testimonio as a decolonial method and methodology. The study examines the intersection of cultural identity, educational equity, and maternal involvement through the lived experiences of ten first-generation Latinx immigrant mothers. Its purpose is to analyze these mothers' experiences, communication, and activities in supporting their children’s educational success. Grounded in testimonio as a Latina feminist methodology and epistemology, the study draws on data collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews conducted in Spanish, resulting in ten testimonios of maternal involvement.
Hard-bodied ticks are known to carry a wide range of viruses, some of which can cause human diseases. In the U.S., the tick Amblyomma americanum is an important disease vector and its bite can cause red meat allergy. The tick has recently expanded its distribution range and its abundance is rising in many areas of the U.S. Its virome is, however, largely underexplored. In this preliminary study, we used a Nanopore MinION sequencer to detect and identify the viral fauna in nymphal ticks (n=43) collected in Statesboro, GA. Extracted DNA and RNA were analyzed separately. Nucleic acids were pooled into 6 groups according to their collection dates and barcoded accordingly. Ove
The pulp and paper industry is the third-largest global consumer of freshwater and faces mounting pressure to optimize water usage. This study addresses limitations in existing aerated stabilization basin (ASB) models by developing an advanced approach for ultimate oxygen demand (UOD) prediction. We implemented variable temperature correction factors, significantly enhancing prediction accuracy for UOD, carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand, and ammonia across seasonal variations. The models effectively simulated microbial activity, organic matter degradation, and phosphorus dynamics including benthal feedback effects. A digital twin was developed integrating these models with real-time data for dynamic optimization. Analysis revealed that comparable removal efficiencies could be achieved through various operational strategies depending on temperature conditions. This research provides a robust framework enhancing treatment efficiency and supporting regulatory compliance, offering valuable decision-making tools for industrial wastewater management.
Every individual has the right to receive safe and efficient care in the healthcare setting. As healthcare grows and demographics evolve rapidly, it is crucial that frontline workers, especially nurses, are adequately prepared to address the unique needs of minority and ethnically diverse populations. However, a significant gap exists in understanding how effective current nursing school curricula is in preparing students for this critical aspect of patient care. This research utilizes a quantitative survey methodology to address the central question: “Do Nursing Students Perceive That They Are Educationally Prepared to Care for Minority and Ethnically Diverse Populations upon Graduation?” The expected findings are that due to the lack of prioritization of cultural competency education in the nursing school curricula, nursing students will not feel confident or thoroughly prepared to care for minority and ethnically diverse populations.
Undergraduate women are at risk of developing internalizing symptoms in response to relational stressors and social norm pressures associated with college life. Co-rumination, excessive and ongoing discussion between two or more people about emotionally distressing topics, both increases connection and intimacy between friends and increased risk of depressive symptoms. Relationships may then be mechanisms of risk when support is sought in ineffective ways. The goal of the current study is to extend research on co-rumination and depressive symptom risks in friend dyads to friend clusters within larger social networks. First, I hypothesize that a homophily effect of co-rumination will exist within friend clusters such that individual co-rumination will predict cluster average co-rumination. Second, I hypothesize that co-rumination will account for a depression homophily such that higher group average co-rumination levels will be associated with higher group average depressive symptoms. Hypotheses will be tested using social network analysis and multi-linear modeling.
We present a proof-of-concept design for an atomtronic rotation sensor consisting of an array of "double-target" Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs). A "target" BEC is a disk-shaped condensate surrounded by a concentric ring-shaped condensate. A "double-target" BEC is two adjacent target BECs whose ring condensates partially overlap. The sensor consists of an nxm array of these double-target BECs. The measurement of ΩR is carried out by creating the array of double-target BECs (setup step), inducing unit of quantized flow in the top ring of each member of the array (initialization step), applying potential barriers in the overlap region of each member (measurement step), and observing whether the induced flow is transferred from the top to the bottom ring in each member (readout step). We describe simulations showing that a single instance of a double-target BEC behaves in a way that enables correct operation of an nxm array for measuring ΩR.
Gender is often described as a social construct. This description usually contrasts social construction with other unchanging, unambiguous concepts. Through Chiara Bottici's analysis, I argue the concept of myth breaks us from this dichotomy. By understanding myth as the persistent creation of significance through narratives in response to a need, we no longer leave myth to untruth and unreality. Instead, we see myths as a way to direct people’s actions by giving them a way to see the world. By integrating Bottici with Merleau Ponty's phenomenology, I argue the significance of myth occurs through embodiment by organizing gestures. These gestures take on a system of significances that give us a coherent world. This system of gestures produces gender scripts. The question is not how we reject such scripts and their received meanings. The question becomes: how can we act our gender to produce a more open mythology?
In recent years, the deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), particularly drone swarms, has gained attention due to their applications in military operations, agriculture, public safety, and disaster management. While its benefits are evident, controlling multiple UAVs by a single operator remains a complex challenge. Those existing control methods for swarms can fall short in uncontrolled environments. This proposal addresses the problem by introducing a novel approach that tracks hand movements in space by a 3D-LiDAR, allowing the operator to intuitively steer the drone. This approach leverages the depth-information from the laser to determine the relative change of the hand movement at an update frequency of 20Hz. The derived flight controls are then sent to the testing drone (DJI Tello). The proposed system promises to enhance the resilience and intuitiveness of UAV control, allowing for broader usage of unmanned aerial vehicles in those and other applications.
This qualitative case study provides insight into 14 preservice teachers’ (PSTs’) experiences from attending a professional conference that focused on K-16 mathematics education. PSTs attended at least 4 sessions that focused on best practices for teaching and learning mathematics and participated in daily debriefs where they shared what they learned. PSTs also completed a pre and post survey where they were asked various questions about their confidence in teaching mathematics. The question we chose to further explore from their pre to post responses was, “I can use various tools to support student understanding.” Preliminary findings provide insight into what PSTs found that they learned from attending the conference in regards to using various tools. A key goal of this presentation is to show how engagement in the conference helped PSTs gain confidence with using different tools and learning more ideas and strategies to promote engagement among students within their classrooms.
Prison labor has long been a central component of the U.S. correctional system, evolving from early penitentiary models to contemporary labor practices that remain legally sanctioned under the Thirteenth Amendment. This study examines the historical development, key legislation, and modern realities of prison labor, emphasizing its economic, ethical, and rehabilitative implications. Using survey data from a nationally representative sample, the study assesses public attitudes toward mandatory prison work, fair wages for incarcerated individuals, and financial obligations such as medical copays and communication fees. Findings reveal that while the public generally supports prison labor, opinions diverge on compensation and economic burdens placed on incarcerated individuals. Demographic factors, including age, income, and political ideology, significantly shape these attitudes. The study highlights the tension between punitive economic policies and rehabilitation, underscoring the need for policy reforms that ensure fair wages, financial equity, and meaningful employment opportunities for incarcerated workers.
A team of three faculty members and five undergraduate researchers are conducting a scoping review to examine the impact of conference attendance on the professional development of preservice teachers. An initial literature review revealed gaps in existing research, highlighting the need for a systematic exploration of this topic. According to Scheinfeld (2024), a successful scoping review consists of six key steps: defining a clear research objective, identifying relevant databases and key search terms, selecting an effective citation management tool and review platform, extracting and analyzing data, and synthesizing preliminary findings. This presentation will outline our team’s progress in conducting the scoping review, including our methodological approach, database selection, and key insights gained thus far. As our review is ongoing, we will also share preliminary reflections from student researchers on the process and its broader implications for preservice teacher development.
Mental health concerns among college students have been rising in recent years (Worsley et al., 2022). One mechanism that may mitigate stress is social support, which is support derived from relationships or the environment (Zee & Bolger, 2019). Social support presents in numerous forms, including visible social support, or support directly given to and acknowledged by the recipient, and invisible social support, or support given without acknowledgement by the recipient. Visible social support is more effective in immediate, high-stress situations while invisible social support has higher efficacy over time (Girme et al., 2013). Previous research shows correlations between using campus resources and higher levels of belongingness (Elkins et al., 2011; Weaver et al., 2020). The present study examined how community resources may act as a form of invisible social support. Specifically, this study tested the extent that merely reading about resources could raise feelings of social support and belongingness.
Between 1999–2002 and 2018–2021, the maternal mortality rate in the United States increased by 144% from 9.65 to 23.6 deaths per 100,000 live births. Although women of all races are affected by maternal mortality yearly, it is especially prevalent in black women. In the United States, black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than non-black women. Despite advanced medical technology and ongoing research, black women are continuing to die because of pregnancy at an alarming rate. Many studies suggest that discrimination and implicit bias – defined as subconscious feelings, attitudes, prejudices, and stereotypes an individual has developed due to prior influences and imprints throughout their lives – are contributing factors to this racial disparity. The purpose of this project is to identify the impact implicit bias has on black maternal health as well as actions that can be taken to reduce black maternal mortality.
This report is a reflection of my experiences as a Parker Business Scholar, and how studying under the dean of the Parker College of Business during my Strategic Management Theory capstone course has prepared me for a leadership role and set me up with an extroverted mindset and knowledge of how to manage, market, and develop an organization beyond my time at Georgia Southern University.
Past research has highlighted biases in how individuals are perceived based on gender and emotional expressions. Larson & Brodsky (2010) found that male expert witnesses were perceived more credible than female expert witnesses in a mock trial. Salerno et al. (2015) found that when expressing anger, men were perceived as more credible than their female counterparts. The current study explored how emotions and perceived femininity/masculinity of expert witnesses impact credibility in a jury decision making task. I hypothesized there will be a main effect of gendered appearance, with the masculine-faced expert seen as more competent. An interaction effect anticipates the feminine expert as being perceived as more competent than when displaying anger. Despite the importance of expert witness, little is known about how gender stereotypes and emotional expressions influence jurors' perceptions of credibility. Overall, This study adds knowledge to how emotions and gendered appearance impact expert witness credibility in cour
In recent years, the use of graphic novels has increased in popularity when sourcing valuable educational materials for struggling readers. Although many have deemed graphic novels to be a source of entertainment rather than an educational tool, graphic novels have unique educational benefits for students who struggle with reading comprehension. Graphic novels have a special form of telling stories through visual and textual elements that create a different way for students to follow a plot, setting, or dialogue. Because of this diverse format of storytelling, it is effective in grabbing students' engagement with classic texts and their various Lexile levels. Graphic novels offer a new way of accessing information within a complex narrative such as classic novels that are read at the high school level.
Cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) are insect vectors for human bacterial diseases such as murine typhus, cat scratch disease, and bubonic plague. After a flea ingests an infected blood meal, flea-borne pathogens have been shown to transverse the flea gut epithelial barrier and invade the salivary glands, which may result in pathogen transmission via flea bite. However, the mechanism(s) by which pathogens escape from the flea gut barrier remains unclear. This project aimed to determine whether mechanical damage during blood feeding compromises the integrity of the flea gut epithelia. Because the insect gut primarily comprises collagen, we measured denatured collagen using a fluorescent collagen hybridizing peptide (CHP) from pooled flea guts at different time points post-emergence (0, 2, 7, 14, and 21 days). Our results show that collagen damage increases with age in the gut of blood-feeding fleas. In particular, collagen damage is highest at 7 days post-emergence.
In the United States, settler-colonialism is often dismissed as a "bad chapter" of the past, an embarrassing episode of the nation's history, considered irrelevant to contemporary socio-political discussions. In contrast, while ongoing, Canada's reconciliation efforts remain performative, failing to address underlying colonial power structures. This project argues that settler-colonialism is not merely a historical phenomenon but a pervasive socio-political and cultural structure shaping the contemporary world. Capitalism depends on racialized and gendered hierarchies, continually produced through dispossession, marginalization, and exploitation. The prison-industrial complex (PIC) exemplifies this dynamic by industrializing dehumanization and weaponizing state violence against marginalized communities through mass incarceration, policing, and surveillance. However, the PIC is only one element of broader colonial-capitalist systems that militarize social control and reproduce systemic oppression. Ultimately, this argument contends that settler-colonial capitalism entrenches necropolitical governance by embedding structural violence and transforming vulnerability, death, and dispossession into weapons of capitalist expansion and colonial elimination.
Intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) affect a person’s ability to learn, move, interact, or care for themselves. According to the CDC, about 1-in-10 adults in the U.S. are impacted by IDD. Existing literature suggests that adults with IDD require unique environments that are conducive to their medical and psychological needs, often requiring around-the-clock care at home or dedicated facilities. In addition, adults with IDD often require long-stay periods and custom environments in healthcare settings. Therefore, this scoping review investigates how healthcare facility design impacts the experiences of adults with IDD and their caregivers. Most of the existing data used observations, interviews, and surveys with caregivers. Some of the initial findings indicate that adults with IDD are most susceptible to triggers and discomfort from light, sensory overloads, and unexpectedness with the design of the environment. Therefore, further research should be conducted from the perspective of adults with IDD to cater to their design needs.
KEYWORDS Adult with Intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), healthcare design, built environment
Gallows humor is a coping mechanism used by healthcare professionals to manage stress and emotional burden. Understanding its role in nursing education can help educators and students navigate the complexities of the profession. This study examined its significance through a literature review and a survey of nursing students and educators. The literature review included 15 peer-reviewed articles from databases like GALILEO, CINAHL, PubMed, and Scopus, highlighting both its benefits and ethical concerns. Findings suggest gallows humor is commonly used for stress management and is generally viewed as beneficial for learning and emotional resilience. However, concerns were raised about its potential to contribute to desensitization and unprofessional behavior. While some participants found it appropriate in specific contexts, others emphasized the need for clear guidelines to ensure its ethical use in nursing education. This study highlights the dual nature of gallows humor as both a coping strategy and an ethical challenge. While it can support stress relief and camaraderie, its use must be guided by professional standards. Educators should facilitate discussions on its appropriate application. Future research should explore its long-term impact on nursing practice and strategies for responsible integration into nursing education.
Lane-keeping is critical for SAE Level 3+ autonomous vehicles, requiring accurate lane perception. Most recently approved Level 3 production vehicles include lidar, likely to enhance active safety by providing direct distance measurements—an advantage over Level 2 camera-based methods that rely on statistical inference. This study compares a state-of-the-art machine learning method with our model-driven approach using lidar, focusing on lane marking perception accuracy.
Credit risk prediction remains both a challenging and high-interest problem due to the inherently unbalanced nature of financial datasets and the continuous drive for higher predictive precision. In this work, I build upon previous advancements in credit risk modeling and introduce an ensemble-based Artificial Neural Network (ANN) architecture designed to enhance classification performance. By leveraging a selective ensemble of decision networks, this approach not only improves prediction accuracy but also mitigates the challenges posed by imbalanced data distributions. While the primary focus is on credit risk prediction, my analysis demonstrates that the proposed model can be effectively applied for both dimensionality reduction and classification of unbalanced datasets more broadly. The results reinforce the potential of ensemble deep learning strategies in financial risk assessment, offering a scalable and precise solution for real-world credit risk evaluation.
Lower extremity injury screening is a common tool in soccer due to the changes of direction, jumping, landing, and cutting maneuvers players must exhibit. Talocrural dorsiflexion range of motion (DFROM), vertical jump (VJ) and unilateral hop tests are used to assess ankle and knee injury risk. Further, DFROM asymmetries may present a higher risk than reduced DFROM alone. It is unknown how DFROM asymmetries affect these tests. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between DFROM and hop and VJ performance, and to examine the differences between those with and without DFROM asymmetries. The current results suggest a positive relationship between DFROM and hop and jump performance, but no differences in those with asymmetries. This suggests that DFROM may be important for these tests but a battery for injury screening in soccer should include other assessments to account for potential asymmetry compensation in the lower extremity.
Celiac disease (CD) and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) are two disease states related to the consumption of gluten. This study aims to compare the existing literature on each disease’s pathophysiology, incidence, diagnosis, current treatment, and treatment outcomes. The search engines Galileo, Pubmed, and the National Library of Medicine were used to gather data for this study. CD is characterized by chronic inflammation of the small intestinal mucosa and several other gastrointestinal manifestations. (Rodrigo, 2006). Its incidence is increasing worldwide, with the highest rates in Europe and North America (Gujral et al, 2012). Meanwhile, NCGS is poorly defined and difficult to diagnose due to a lack of serological and histological biomarkers (Barbaro et al, 2020). Its incidence is estimated between 0.5-13% in the general population (Barbaro et al, 2015). The only known treatment for both diseases is a lifelong avoidance of gluten (Raymond et al, 2006).
This paper explores the topic of the separation of church and state from a historical perspective. It traces the evolution of this principle in American politics, starting with its early foundations. The analysis highlights how religious influences have shaped political discourse over time. Additionally, the paper examines the role of religion in contemporary politics, particularly in the context of the 2024 presidential election. It considers how religious beliefs and practices influence political platforms, candidate support, and voting patterns. The study also explores how the media portrays religious issues that are often central to political debate. Ultimately, the paper aims to shed light on the complex relationship between religion, politics, and the media in shaping electoral outcomes.
This study examines the association between sleep duration, multimorbidity, and mortality using data from the 2004 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) linked to the National Death Index through 2019. Cox proportional hazards models were employed to assess the impact of sleep duration on mortality risk across different comorbidity groups. Findings indicate a J-shaped relationship, with both short (≤4 hours) and long (≥9 hours) sleep durations associated with increased mortality, particularly among individuals with multimorbidity. The highest hazard ratios (HRs) were observed in those with ≥3 diseases and excessive sleep durations, especially in cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. Shorter sleep (5–6 hours) exhibited a protective effect in some multimorbidity categories. These results highlight the importance of individualized sleep recommendations based on health status. Future research should explore causal mechanisms and personalized interventions to optimize sleep duration in at-risk populations.
Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology has become integral to modern innovation. Notably, hazardous substances linked to plastics and resins used in 3D printing have been identified as carcinogens and occupational health hazards in manufacturing. This study aims to assess the particulate matter (PM) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted during 3D printing processes. The physical characteristics of emitted particles, including particle number, size distribution, morphology, and chemical composition, will be analyzed using a combination of advanced instrumentation. Measurements will be conducted using OPC-N3 sensors (OPC-N3, Alphasense Ltd.), a TSI SidePak personal aerosol monitor (Model AM510, TSI Inc.), a TSI NanoScan scanning mobility particle sizer (Model 3910, TSI Inc.), and a DX4040 Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) gas analyzer (Model DX4040, Gasmet Technologies Oy., Finland). The preliminary data suggested although particle mass concentrations and VOC concentrations during the printing process do not exceed the exposure threshold values, nanoparticle exposures still warrant caution.
Launched in 2013 by President Xi Jinping, China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a comprehensive foreign policy aimed at promoting regional and international development through infrastructure investments. This initiative seeks to connect China's expanding economy with the rest of the world via land and maritime routes. A key component of the BRI is the 3,000 km China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which encompasses highways, railways, oil and gas pipelines, and a fiber optic network linking Kashgar in China’s Southern Xinjiang with Gwadar in Pakistan's Balochistan. There are concerns that the BRI may exacerbate geopolitical tensions and security issues throughout Asia. This paper will analyze these perspectives by investigating CPEC’s impact on the geopolitical dynamics among Pakistan, China, and India while also exploring the connections between the BRI and insurgency movements in Pakistan. Ultimately, this case study will evaluate whether it contributes to greater stability or instability in the region.
Blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are a key insect family utilized by forensics entomologists to generate a minimum postmortem interval (mPMI) or “time of death” estimate for human decedents. While it is assumed that blow flies are inactive at night, this experiment aims to determine if blow flies are searching for oviposition sites at night. If active, mPMI estimates could be altered by as much as 12 hours; a critical amount of time in a homicide investigation. Blow flies were collected over a total period of 10 days in different months and analyzed with JMP Pro 17. After analysis, there was a significant difference in the amount of blow flies collected at night as opposed to daytime which further confirms the previously held idea that Calliphoridae are inactive at night. This research and further research could potentially improve the accuracy and reliability of mPMI calculations used in criminal cases.
Parapagus conjoined twins are a rare form of twinning that is not commonly seen in literature. Conjoined twins are caused by a late division of a single egg or random fusion of two eggs. This late division occurs 13 days after fertilization. There are different types of conjoined twins that are named by their point of attachment. Parapagus twins are a type of conjoined twins joined together by part of the chest down to the pelvis. They have their own set of limbs and heads, but share a heart. Because of the point of attachment, they have a poor prognosis. Ultrasound is the modality of choice to assess pregnancies and form a diagnosis of various abnormalities. This case study will show the use of ultrasound in diagnosing conjoined twins, differential diagnoses, and overall more information about their etiology and treatment of the diagnosis.
Microfluidics studies of live cell migration require creating a controlled chemical gradient that depends on flow rate. While we develop this technology with that goal in mind, we currently use cell substitutes. In this work, we use Fiji-ImageJ to track particles flowing through a microfluidic device and determine their velocities. As particles are buoyant, we use them to measure flow rates. Our goal is to develop a methodology for tracking microscopic particles as they navigate through the complex channel structure of these devices and measuring their flow velocities. This process involves manipulating images to fit into the TrackMate plugin for efficient analysis of particle paths, troubleshooting and exploring the software, learning how to code, and processing and understanding the collected data. This project is a significant milestone for our research group. It will help analyze particle parameters that will later be used to track live cells.
Amphibians are crucial ecosystem indicators, sensitive to environmental shifts like salinity and pollution. Amphiuma means is a large aquatic salamander native to the southeastern United States. They have four limbs that append two toes and reach lengths over a meter. This salamander has limited mobility due to their diminutive limbs, hindering gene flow between isolated wetlands. Gene flow is the transfer of genetic material from one population to another. This study expanded on genetic differences between mainland and coastal populations of A. means in Georgia's barrier islands, which have been spatially isolated for thousands of years. Nuclear and mitochondrial primers were used to amplify a portion of the Rag1 gene and Cytochrome b gene to analyze. I predicted that coastal populations would exhibit less genetic variation due to the isolation of the barrier islands. The results indicated low mitochondrial DNA variation in coastal populations, but, high nuclear DNA variation.
Aberrant protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) activity is implicated in a variety of diseases including obesity, type II diabetes, and cancer, among others. As the burden these diseases place on healthcare systems continues to grow, the development of novel therapeutics is more important than ever. Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1b (PTP1b) and phosphatase of regenerating liver 3 (PRL3), two protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) whose roles in the aforementioned diseases are well documented, have been widely identified as important targets for the development of novel treatments for these diseases. For this project, a set of ortho-substituted 1,2,3-triazoles (a-e) were synthesized using copper (I)-catalyzed, microwave-assisted click reaction. Compound characterization was performed using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, 19F NMR (where applicable), IR, and MS. The compounds were screened for inhibitory activity against PTP1b & PRL3 in fluorogenic substrate assays containing DiFMUP. Molecular docking analysis was conducted to evaluate bonding affinity of reported compounds.
This presentation explores how corporations balance the conflicting goals of profitability, purpose-driven missions, and public trust. Through three case studies—Google’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) controversy, Novo Nordisk’s handling of the Ozempic drug boom, and Spotify’s pursuit of growth while battling ethical concerns—I examine how organizations navigate ethical and strategic crossroads. Each case highlights the tension between making money and doing good: Google faced internal backlash and external scrutiny when managing employee speech and inclusivity; Novo Nordisk drew criticism for drug pricing and access issues despite its philanthropic roots; and Spotify, though a pioneer in streaming innovation, encountered controversy over layoffs while striving for profitability.
My analysis reveals common threads among the companies, including the fragile nature of stakeholder trust, the risk of losing sight of a mission during times of rapid growth, and the need for transparent, values-aligned decision-making. This presentation argues that trust and long-term success require more than just statements—they demand consistent action that reflects a company's stated values. This presentation will conclude by me encouraging businesses and future leaders to view public trust not as a cost of doing business, but as a strategic asset that shapes reputation and sustained growth.
Biofilters are underground structures located in remote areas. Their purpose is to remove Nitrogen(N) and Phosphate(P) nutrients from runoff, therefore reducing the number of pollutants being discharged to the environment. The most common forms of biofiltration include biological or natural systems such as riverbank filtration or soil aquifer treatment, and engineered filtration such as rapid sand filters, or chemical filtration. These designs are successful in N and P removal, however, they have several disadvantages, such as the down time required for cleaning them. Consequently, the utilization of engineered 3D printed biofilters is being developed and tested for its many benefits. These benefits include a high surface area which promotes the growth of microalgae which enhances N and P removal from runoff as well as more space for bacteria that form biofilm to grow. Lastly, it is a cheaper medium to manufacture and easier to clean.
Triazoles have diverse applications, including antibacterial, and antitumor agents, as well as textile dyes. The click chemistry approach was used to develop a microwave-assisted synthesis of biologically active triazole molecules. Microwave assistance enables a more eco-friendly, and time-efficient reaction. Reaction efficacy was assessed via percent yield, while qualitative analysis was conducted using hydrogen NMR, carbon NMR, and IR spectroscopy. The triazole core was linked to an aromatic center at the 1,4 position. Nine different triazole derivatives with variable substituents at the 4 position were synthesized. These substituents feature aromatic centers with carbonyl functional groups at ortho, meta, or para positions. The synthesized compounds were screened for antibacterial and antifungal activity.
How do systemic factors, criminal justice policies, legal barriers, and sentencing disparities, contribute to the disproportionate rate of incarceration for Black men in the United States? Though the research on these singular topics is expansive, current research leaves several gaps, including how these factors work together to disproportionately affect Black men resulting in overwhelmingly high incarceration rates of this marginalized group. Understanding how systemic factors, criminal justice policies, legal barriers, and sentencing disparities work to negatively affect Black men is crucial in remedying these issues that have plagued the United States for so long. I dive into the underlying systemic factors, critically examining the impact of criminal justice policies and legal barriers and analyzing the role of sentencing disparities in perpetuating racial inequalities within the U.S. criminal justice system. By understanding these different aspects this research aims to help reveal the depth of inequalities faced by Black men within America.
English Language Arts are the foundational setting for a student to learn to communicate with the world around them. The largest influential factor in the classroom for a student's development is the perspective and pedagogical ideals of their teacher. Current methods to implement race-inclusive language within the classroom includes ideas of code-switching and historical texts focusing on the contextual history of minority groups. However, research has proven that these methods are ineffective, forming emotionally taxing environments for students of color within the classroom. The research conducted in this thesis focuses on the effects of reconstructed inclusive and individualized English Language Arts curriculum on a students development, motivation, and feeling of self-worth. The following portfolio aims to showcase and provide a real-time implementation of developed pedagogical theories of code-meshing and individualization of curriculum in the classroom and how it benefits the student.
Preterm neonates are at risk of developmental delays, behavioral problems, and mental health challenges. Neuroprotective care is essential to mitigate these risks, and nurses play a crucial role in educating caregivers on these practices. This study aims to investigate neonatal nurses' knowledge and confidence in teaching caregivers about neuroprotective care, and to determine the extent to which caregivers implement these practices. A mixed-methods research design will be employed, using a survey to collect data from neonatal nurses with at least one year of experience working in a level III NICU. The survey will assess nurses' understanding of neuroprotective care, their confidence in educating caregivers, and the frequency in which they teach caregivers how to perform neuroprotective care.
This research explores how ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) collaborate in diagnosing endometriosis, a condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, commonly in the pelvic area, such as ovaries, fallopian tubes, ligaments, and peritoneum. It may even affect the urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. Possible causes include the backflow of endometrial-like tissue during menstruation or spread via the bloodstream. Symptoms include nausea, infertility, abnormal bleeding, and painful cramps. Transvaginal ultrasound is a widely used, non-invasive, and accurate diagnostic tool, but it has limitations, especially in visualizing deep endometriosis (DIE). MRI, another non-invasive and accurate modality, is better at detecting both DIE and ovarian endometriomas, making it the first choice for some. While ultrasound has its advantages, it cannot match MRI’s ability to differentiate soft tissues and structures like bones. These two imaging methods should be used together to overcome their individual limitations, with ultrasound potentially gaining equal recognition as MRI in future research.
Bacterial endosymbionts often significantly impact host physiology and ecology and can, therefore, influence ecological processes such as species introductions. Wolbachia pipientis is an intracellular endosymbiont common in arthropods that are transmitted to offspring through the egg. Wolbachia have diverse effects on hosts, including cytoplasmic incompatibility, mating, parthenogenesis induction, nutritional enhancement, pathogen resistance, and increased fertility and lifespan, to name a few. The kudzu bug (Megacopta cribraria) is a legume-eating insect native to Asia introduced into northern Georgia in 2009. Kudzu bug distribution has expanded throughout the southeastern US and is now common in 15 states. Kudzu bugs harbor two bacterial symbionts: Candidatus Ishikawaella capsulata and Wolbachia pipientis. The relationship between kudzu bugs and Candidatus is well studied, but that with Wolbachia is less understood. This study uses multi-locus sequence typing to characterize Wolbachia in kudzu bug samples from early in the US introduction (2013) and current populations (2024). The following questions were address: 1) Did frequency of Wolbachia infection change over time introduced populations?; 2) Is there genetic variation in Wolbachia between native and introduced kudzu bug populations or between 2013 and 2024 introduced populations?
Is it moral to give? Is it moral to fight for change? Do one of these actions hold a higher moral value than another? In this speech we will discuss and present a variety of philosophical theories and ideas, from Aristotle’s virtue ethics, to utilitarian and consequentialism, to Kant’s deontology to answer these questions. Additionally, we seek to determine the effects of attitude on giving and community service. Is the goal of giving to feel good about ourselves or is the goal of giving to make the world a better place for those who are disadvantaged. Is there a way to separate these two motives? It is our goal to consider the possible implications of these questions, to analyze them with relevant philosophical theory, and to provide what we believe to be the best answer to this question.
Urbanization has significantly affected the availability and quality of urban green and bluespaces (UGBS), as increasing development often reduces these essential natural features. The intensification of urban landscapes frequently prioritizes infrastructure over nature, resulting in a scarcity of UGBS, which are crucial for promoting mental health. Mental health trends in the United States show an increasing prevalence of anxiety and depression, particularly in urbanized areas. This study examines the relationship between exposure to UGBS and mental health across the contiguous US (CONUS), focusing on physical coverage, and potential human exposure. Using remote sensing, GIS, and spatial statistical analysis, our research examines how varying levels of green and bluespace exposure, as key Nature-Based Solutions, influence mental health in urban environments. The findings will inform urban planning strategies that seek to enhance environmental health by incorporating UGBS into city landscapes, ultimately supporting mental well-being in increasingly dense urban environments.
We have studied 1D and 3D atom interferometry (AI) sequences carried out with Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) in the presence of external potentials consisting of harmonic plus anharmonic terms. The process where a BEC is split into multiple clouds and then recombined to form an interference pattern was numerically simulated by solving the Gross-Pitaevskii equation (GPE). Approximate solutions to this equation were generated using the Lagrangian Variational Method (LVM) whose trial wave function consisted of a sum of Gaussian functions, one for each cloud. We derive the LVM equations of motion as well as a formula for the phase of the trial wave function. The variational result is compared to the numerical solution of the GPE. We will also compare these results with those given by time-dependent perturbation theory.
Controlled chemical gradients can be produced in a microfluidic chamber using a serial split-and-recombine flow approach with two input concentrations. We investigated the formation of a 2D concentration landscape created by a biased Y-mixer, part of a microfluidic gradient generator. Our study focused on flow rates comparable to interstitial flow in tissues to examine cancer cell migration associated with tumor metastasis. We analyzed the concentration profile along (3.5 mm) and across (0.5 mm) the microfluidic gradient chamber using epifluorescence microscopy and fluorescein sodium salt as a concentration marker. We tracked the flow using 3.5-µm diameter polystyrene particles. Our experimental results align with the empirical model needed for designing these microfluidic structures.
This experiment aims to analyze the relationship between gill surface area and oxygen consumption in axolotls under resting conditions. Using intermittent flow respirometry, the rate of oxygen consumption (mgO2/kg/hr) of individual axolotls will be measured to determine their metabolic demands at rest. The gill surface area of each axolotl will be scored based on qualitative analysis of extent of lamellar development and the data will be analyzed to explore how surface area correlates with oxygen consumption. It is hypothesized that axolotls with larger gill surface areas will exhibit higher rates of oxygen consumption due to increased capacity for gas exchange. The results of this study may provide insights into the physiological adaptations of axolotls in relation to respiratory efficiency and metabolic rates.
Aquaporins (AQPs), commonly known as water channels, play integral roles in facilitating the movement of solutes (urea/water) across biological cell membranes. In this study, AQPs in Squalus acanthias was investigated, a species renowned for its unique urea retention abilities. Through a combination of mRNA expression analysis using quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry, the tissue-specific expression patterns were characterized and the subcellular localization of AQP10C1 and AQP10C2. The results revealed distinct roles for these AQPs: AQP10C1 exhibited predominant expression in gill tissue, suggesting its crucial involvement in osmoregulation processes. Conversely, AQP10C2 demonstrated varying expressions in kidney and intestine cells, hinting at its potential contribution to urea transport and homeostasis mechanisms. These findings shed light on the intricate functions of urea transport and homeostasis in marine organisms, thereby advancing our understanding of osmoregulation processes. Furthermore, this research holds promise for elucidating the functions of vertebrate AQPs.
Advancements in chemo- and biosensors are rapidly evolving. With precise glutathione monitoring, sensors offer valuable insights into early diagnosis, treatment assessment, and disease progression. To support undergraduate researchers in exploring focused topics of their choice, the WRAPS (Writing Research Articles as Proficient Scholars) workbook has been introduced. This 15-week workbook, designed for a semester-long course, guides students in conducting literature reviews and writing a peer reviewed article on the latest sensor developments in understanding and managing chronic diseases and conditions (Alzheimer’s; Autism, ADHD). Every chapter focuses on each section of a peer-reviewed article: "Abstract, Keywords, Introduction, Methodology, Results, Discussion, Conclusion and Acknowledgement". Supplementary chapters are also provided (learning new softwares, excel, canva etc). This project helps develop essential broader skills like time management, teamwork, and adaptability as well. Students can build strong foundations in scholarly research and scientific writing while working closely with their mentors to generate peer-reviewed publication.
We conducted a comprehensive analysis of nanoscience-related job postings across various recruitment platforms. Using these job ads, we developed an algorithm to design a job market-driven nanoscience and nanomaterials curriculum at GSU. This curriculum will enable faculty to align their teaching with industry demands, ensuring students gain the skills and knowledge most sought after by employers in nanoscience and physics
Effects of Short-term Candle Burning on Lung Function and Exhaled eNO in a Typical Home Environment among Residents
Authors: Dorothy Seybold, Dalton Crunkelton, Elena Ortez, Megan Nicol, Kenya Watson, Atin Adhikari Ph.D. Background and Objectives: Some chronic respiratory conditions may be exacerbated by particulate matter emitted from burning candles. This study assesses candle usage on lung function and exhaled nitric oxide levels (eNO) in asthmatics and non-asthmatics. Methods: We measured eNO, FVC, and FEV1% before and after typical candle-burning exposure for 60 minutes, using a NIOX Vero eNO monitor and a spirometer. Particulate matter (PM) in the 0.3-10 µm size range was monitored in parallel. Results: Preliminary results indicate different trends for asthmatic and non-asthmatic study participants: Before candle burning: 1) Asthmatics – eNO: 10.5±1.12ppb; FVC: 3.73±0.55L; FEV1: 66.3±13.4L; 1) Non-Asthmatics – eNO: 10.3±6.2ppb; FVC:4.20±1.0L; FEV1: 38.3±10.4L After candle burning: 1) Asthmatics – eNO:9.0±1.9ppb; FVC:3.21±0.5L; FEV1:57.6±13.9L; 1) Non-Asthmatics – eNO: 8.8±3.8ppb; FVC:3.5±1.0L; FEV1:37.2±12.7L. Total mean(±SD) PM concentrations ranged from 6,431,449±8,023179 to 7,652,650±10,118,427/m3. Conclusions: Short-term exposure to burning candles may negatively impact lung function, triggering inflammation in the respiratory tracts differently in asthmatics compared to non-asthmatics.
Dissolved organic matters (DOMs) are prevalent in aquatic systems and generate environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) when exposed to sunlight. Those EPFRs play a pivotal role in biogeochemical cycles and contaminant mitigation. However, this process has never been paired with the treatment and removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS or ‘forever chemicals’) in water. This research aims to manipulate the production of EPFRs by biochar (BC) derived DOM, produced from different biomass sources at varying pyrolysis temperatures, under simulated sunlight irradiation. We attempt to link the physicochemical properties (e.g., functional groups) of BC-DOM to their photoreactivity and EPFR production. Additional efforts will be devoted to investigating the transformation efficiency of PFAS by photoproduced EPFRs in water. The findings of this work will provide insights into the critical role of naturally occurring BC-DOM-centered EPFRs in mediating and removing contaminants in the aquatic environment.
Previous studies showed candle burning may contribute to microbial contamination. This study aimed to assess microbial activity around burning synthetic and natural candles in a confined space. Methods: ATP levels, serving as an indicator of microbial activity, were measured using a bioluminescence assay with a luminometer. Measurements were taken at distances of 17, 68, and 125 inches from the burning candles. A one-square-centimeter area of the floor was sampled three times via swabbing, and Relative Light Units (RLU) were recorded. Results: Preliminary findings on microbial activity (RLU/cm²) ranges in the surrounding areas were: (a) before burning: natural candle 15 - 3270; synthetic candle 4 - 60; (b) after burning: natural candle 47 – 1873; synthetic candle 0 – 17. Conclusions: The preliminary results indicate no significant trends in microbial activity on the floor surrounding the two types of burning candles. We expect that future experiments will yield clearer insights.
The Brain Booth is an experiential space to learn about the mind-body connection, reduce stress, optimize learning, and support overall well-being. Mindfulness activities include coloring, origami, puzzles, biofeedback, meditation, board games, and more.
Methodology: A qualitative study was conducted using student feedback on interactions with Brain Booth mindfulness activities, with a research question: What mindfulness practices and activities were considered most helpful to students and why? The study data were collected from student responses at electronic kiosks at the Brain Booth locations.
Results: The findings of the study showed that specific Brain Booth activities were consistently related to helping students relax and de-stress.
Conclusion: Researchers will continue to study student interactions with Brain Booth mindfulness activities, expanding and enhancing activities available to students, with the goal of helping to improve their academic performance and overall well-being.
Cancer therapeutics have wide ranging side effects on healthy cells due to low specificity targeting, resulting in limited treatment compliance. LAT1, an overexpressed transporter in cancer cells, has been investigated and targeted for drug delivery. LAT1 uses the rocking bundle mechanism for transport, and has been utilized as a conduit for drugs that mimic its natural substrates. Quinone derivatives are common anticancer pharmacores due to their mechanistic action with cellular nucleophiles, participation in ROS, and noncovalent interactions with DNA base pairs and topoisomerase enzymes. With the prevalence of LAT1 in cancers, 1,4-naphthoquinone pharmacores are ideal candidates for anti-cancer therapeutics linked to large neutral amino acids to increase preferential discrimination towards cancer cells. In silico studies have allowed for predictive structure analysis in our design of naphthoquinone-tyrosine derivatives.
Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) walls are critical for transportation infrastructure stability, yet traditional inspection methods are labor-intensive and often miss most of the subsurface defects. This study investigates Infrared Thermography (IRT) as a non-destructive, cost-effective solution for MSE wall inspections in Southeast Georgia. By capturing thermal images under various conditions, this research study has the potential to identify defects such as cracks, voids, delamination, and honeycombing, which may threaten the structural integrity of these walls. Advanced image processing techniques improve detection accuracy, enabling the development of a robust IRT-based inspection methodology. Preliminary results demonstrate IRT’s ability to detect thermal anomalies, offering transportation authorities an initiative-taking tool for further monitoring and maintenance. Funded by the Georgia Department of Transportation, this research features IRT’s potential to further develop infrastructure management, reducing failure risks and enhancing the safety and longevity of transportation assets, along with supporting its integration into routine inspection protocols.
The rapid integration of inverter-based resources, particularly solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, into conventional power grids presents significant challenges for ensuring a stable power supply. This paper drills into the comprehensive reliability analysis of three different power generation system configurations, namely, 100% traditional generation systems (i.e., oil, hydro, coal, and nuclear), 100% solar systems, and a combination of both solar and battery storage systems. The study analyzes critical reliability metrics, including loss of load expectation, loss of energy expectation, loss of load frequency, and energy not supplied across the various power generation configurations by employing the Monte Carlo simulations over 10 years. Simulation results demonstrate the limitations of the solar system as the only generation source that can meet the load demand due to its intermittent nature. However, integrating battery storage into the PV systems significantly enhances the overall system reliability as seen by the reduction in the reliability metrics. This matter asserts the potential of PV and battery storage systems to serve as sustainable and dependable systems compared with traditional generation systems.
Nasonia giraulti and N. vitripennis are two different species of the parasitoid Nasonia wasp. These two species can produce partially viable offspring when crossed in labs. In this research project, I will cross these two species to compare the number of eggs produced to the amount of viable adults. Along with the ratio comparison, I will look at how the nuclear DNA is affected in these hybrids and why some are more viable than others. This project will help me to determine genes that result in the success of Nasonia hybrids and genes that cause overall mortality in the hybrid offspring. In addition, I will be obtaining research skills that involve genetic crossing, molecular data analysis, and statistical analysis.
Despite advancements in cancer therapies and multidrug resistance, mechanisms continue to challenge existing treatments, highlighting the need for selective, effective, and affordable options. One solution to this is to target cellular pathways or transporters that are overexpressed in most cancer cells. Targeting the L-type Amino Acid Transporter 1 (LAT1) proves to be a promising approach where LAT1 mediates the uptake of essential amino acids like leucine, isoleucine, methionine, valine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, and tyrosine. Naphthoquinone and acridine cores are known for their indiscriminate cytotoxicity. Conjugating those cores with amino acids to create LAT1-compatible derivatives can enhance selectivity for cancer cells while minimizing off-target effects. This research focuses on developing naphthoquinone-tyrosine and acridine-lysine derivatives to achieve LAT1-mediated drug delivery. The presentation will cover (1) the study of pharmacokinetic properties of naphthoquinone derivatives in silico using SwissADME, and (2) the synthetic strategy for making acridine-lysine derivatives as potential LAT1 substrates.
A research team of 3 faculty and 5 undergraduate researchers, conducted a scoping review on Preservice Teachers conference attendance and its effect on professional development. In order to identify how much information is available on this topic, a scoping review was performed. According to Scheinfeld (2024), scoping reviews include 6 steps consisting of defining a clear research objective and questions that contribute to it: by using specific words and topics, finding 3 databases that are cohesive with the research topic or questions, uploading the articles that come up from different key terms into a citation management platform and use a screening tool or a review platform to review articles, extract useful information and eliminating off topic articles, and finally present findings. After searching key terms in our specific topic, we removed articles that were duplicated or not related. This helped to reduce the amount of articles to screen in our scoping review. Reflecting on this process, we discovered that each database defines key terms differently. We also noticed that working together in a group is a crucial part of this process, because it allows us to identify key terms, and discuss amongst each other on whether the terms fit the discussed topic.
Accurate differentiation between diseased and non-diseased states is vital in clinical diagnostics, with optimal cut-off points crucial for precise classification. This study introduces Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) as a robust metric for evaluating diagnostic accuracy. Unlike traditional measures, MCC accounts for all elements of the confusion matrix—true positives, false positives, true negatives, and false negatives—providing a comprehensive assessment of classification performance. Notably, MCC remains effective in imbalanced class distributions, ensuring a balanced evaluation of true negatives and overall diagnostic reliability. Its ability to offer a more informative predictive performance measure makes it valuable for assessing diagnostic tests across varying prevalence levels. Simulation results demonstrate MCC’s superior performance, often surpassing established methods. Applying the MCC measure and cut-off point selection criterion to real-life data further validates its effectiveness in achieving balanced diagnostic accuracy. MCC frequently outperforms traditional metrics, making it a compelling tool in diagnostic test evaluation.
Most students struggle with organization, time management, and content understanding, which lead students to becoming unsuccessful in difficult classes. Our notebook eases these struggles with the integrated tools on every page of notes, along with an end of chapter review, a scale to gauge competency. Additional examples, including sidebar drawings, are distributed throughout the pages to enhance learning and prompt students to analyze their weaknesses in each chapter. A semester calendar is provided to give students a place to put all information and allow students to create a quick glance at the whole semester. Additionally, weekly calendars are provided for weekly or nonrecurring dates. Along with adding in, sidebar drawings for those who have a more artistic learning style. All of these tools in the ORGOnize notebook are designed to give students a newfound confidence in organic chemistry and to believe that success is right around the corner.
By situating motherhood within the framework of Latinx parental involvement and employing Testimonio as a Critical Race Feminist Methodology (Delgado-Bernal et al., 2018), I examine Hoover-Dempsey & Sandler’s Model (1995) of Parental Involvement. This cross-cultural study (He, 2003) theorizes three Latinx testimonios to delve into the experiences of Latinx mothers and their participation in their children’s educational trajectories to successfully support, nurture, inspire, and empower their children’s educational goals. The conclusions highlight the significance of recognizing Latinx mothers’ cultural involvement and the bicultural understandings and challenges.
Head louse pediculosis is a widespread public health issue, particularly among school-aged children. This study examines parental knowledge and practices related to louse infestation in Southeast Georgia. A self-administered survey of 201 parents assessed demographic factors, knowledge levels, and behaviors related to head lice. Most parents (94%) resided in Coffee County, with long-term residents demonstrating greater awareness. However, knowledge gaps existed, particularly among highly educated professionals. Socioeconomic and demographic factors appear to influence behaviors, with lower-income and recently moved families more frequently experiencing louse infestation. More respondents from households with shared living spaces, communal activity participation, and reliance on word of mouth for information reported exposure to lice. While over-the-counter treatments were most common, homemade remedies were used by lower-income families. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions to close knowledge gaps, reduce stigma, and promote effective louse prevention and treatment strategies tailored to diverse communities.
Burning candles can emit varying concentrations of particulate matter depending on their material composition, which can lead to negative respiratory and neurological health outcomes. In this context, the current study aims to measure particles of 0.3-10µm aerodynamic sizes.
Methods: Candles were burned for one hour in an enclosed and unventilated room (12.24 m²). Surrounding airborne concentrations of selected particles were measured using a CEM DT-9881 particle monitor at distances of 0, 1, and 2 meters. Measurements were repeated twice for 1-minute durations at 15, 35, and 55 minutes. The concentration values were adjusted with background levels.
Results: The means ±SD of microparticle concentrations (numbers/2.83L) across all distances were: (a) 15-minute: natural 14,220±1,391; artificial: 56,368±1,960; (b) 35-minute: natural: 12,399±1,311; artificial: 89,599±8,320; (c) 55-minute: natural: 11,427±2,661; artificial: 70,666±1,622.
Conclusions: Preliminary results indicate that synthetic candles produce significantly more particles of 0.3-10µm sizes, approximately 567% more, than natural candles.
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) poses environmental challenges due to its low decomposition rates and inefficient recycling methods. PET, commonly found as a leading material in most plastic bottles, has inadequate recycling methods to the comparative consumption levels. Protic Ionic Liquids (PILs), formed from Brønsted acid-base pairs are considered designer sustainable solvents, offering tunable properties, low volatility, and high thermal stability, enabling efficient PET dissolution in comparative mild conditions. Optimized time, temperature, W/V%, catalyst recyclability, and BHET yield parameters demonstrated enhanced PET recovery and PIL recyclability. H NMR spectrum of PILs, Mass Spectrophotometry, and FT-IR provide the presence of a proton transfer between the comparative catalyst of PILs. Microwave heating on PET glycolysis enhanced the complete degradation of PET and BHET yield through direct hydrolysis. This approach highlights the methodology potential of PILs in advancing sustainable PET recycling and reducing plastic waste.
Welding is widely used in industries like automotive, aerospace, and construction, particularly in bridges due to its strength and cost-effectiveness. However, defects such as porosity, cracks, and lack of fusion can compromise structural integrity. Historical failures, like the I-40 bridge crack and Seongsu Bridge collapse, highlight the critical need for defect detection and classification. The AWS D1.5 bridge welding code provides guidelines for identifying acceptable and rejectable defects, ensuring structural safety. Among non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) is the most advanced, offering precise defect detection using Sectorial Scan and Total Focusing Method (TFM). This study evaluates PAUT’s effectiveness in detecting and characterizing welding defects in bridge structures based on AWS D1.5. The findings show that PAUT enhances defect detection sensitivity, reduces rework, and improves safety, making it a crucial tool for structural health monitoring in modern bridge construction.
Metal additive manufacturing techniques opened the door for rapid prototyping and on-demand manufacturing while improving supply chain resiliency through decentralizing Manufacturing. However, uncertainties in operating conditions and machine reliability can limit these advantages by increasing lead times and degrading the mechanical properties of fabricated components. Specifically, process interruptions influence the melting-solidification cycles during layer evolution, leading to microstructural changes and variations in Mechanical characteristics of 3D-printed metal parts. These interruptions can compromise structural integrity, resulting in the formation of defects that weaken the mechanical strength of the final component. Accurately assessing these flaws is critical to ensuring part reliability. There are a variety of techniques which can remove or reduce the amount or size of flaws. Post- processing methods, such as Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) and other heat-treatment techniques, enhance the mechanical properties and structural integrity of AM parts. The choice of post-processing approach depends on the intended application and the material properties of the printed component. Since variations typically occur at the layer level, it is essential to analyze mechanical properties in a manner that effectively identifies and quantifies these deviations, guiding appropriate post-processing decisions. Hence, this study investigates the effects of process interruption on the mechanical properties of the metal 3D printed parts for stainless steel parts with and without post-processing. To evaluate these effects, various stainless steel 316L parts are fabricated using powder-bed fusion-based selective laser melting(SLM), manufactured under various process parameter conditions The printed samples undergo sectioning, mounting, and polishing to achieve a mirror-like surface finish, allowing for a detailed investigation of their micro-mechanical characteristics. Nano-indentation testing is employed to measure key mechanical properties, including elasticity and hardness, in a matrix grid format across the interruption-affected regions.
To evaluate the effectiveness of post-processing, a subset of the samples undergoes heat treatment in a vacuum furnace, and their micro-mechanical properties are reassessed. A statistical analysis is conducted to examine variations within the heat-treated samples and compare them to their as-built counterparts. Additionally, machine learning techniques are integrated into the analysis to predict mechanical property variations based on processing conditions, enabling data-driven insights for optimizing AM parameters and post-processing strategies. Results demonstrate that process interruptions impact mechanical properties; however, post-processing treatments significantly mitigate these variations. Furthermore, predictive modeling using machine learning provides a powerful tool for anticipating mechanical performance, ultimately improving the reliability and consistency of metal AM components.
The synthesis of novel tris-indole amines and their characterizations will be discussed. These compounds have been prepared in our laboratory to be tested for anticancer activity.
This presentation explores the learning experiences of preservice teachers as they observed and took field notes during a mathematics workshop for parents of K-2 students. The workshop focused on mathematical concepts like place value, addition, and subtraction. Preservice teachers observed as parents engaged in a hands-on learning experience which challenged the PSTs to translate mathematical pedagogical strategies for parent audiences. Using their field notes, the research team critically reflected on our experience to revise the workshop and create additional support. We share those revisions in this poster and our findings.
Frequently, multiple material properties such as extreme corrosion resistance and high strength are necessary within the same component but may not be feasible with a single material. Due to the strong correlations between material selection and the difficulty of manufacturing with component cost, expensive material use must be limited. It can be highly beneficial to manufacture a component which uses specialty steel grades only where necessary, and utilizes more affordable, commonly available steels for bulk structural support. A functionally graded structure is fabricated using pulsed wire arc additive manufacturing to showcase the capabilities of such a material. This is accomplished by layering high strength low alloy steel (HSLA-100) on top of duplex stainless steel (ER2209). The resultant morphology is investigated, and characterization of the functionally graded material is performed. Mechanical testing coupled with DIC allows for elucidation of mechanical properties and visualization of stress concentrations at the functionally graded interface.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are toxic and persistent environmental pollutants with significant carcinogenic and mutagenic risks. These contaminants accumulate in soil, water, and air due to industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and combustion processes, necessitating efficient extraction and quantification techniques. Deep eutectic solvents (DES), a class of green and biodegradable solvents, have emerged as promising extractive materials for PAH analysis due to their low toxicity, tunable physicochemical properties, and high extraction efficiency. In this study, hydrophobic DES are employed as extractive media for the preconcentration of PAHs through a microliquid-liquid extraction procedure. The extracted PAHs are subsequently analyzed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), which offers high sensitivity by leveraging the hydrophobicity of the DES to effectively separate and concentrate the PAHs. The optimization of extraction conditions, including DES composition, extraction efficiency, and chromatographic parameters, will be investigated to improve recovery rates and detection limits. This methodology provides a sustainable and efficient approach for PAH monitoring in environmental samples, contributing to the advancement of green analytical techniques for contamination assessment.
Mitochondria are well known for housing the oxidative phosphorylation pathway, a complex structure essential for ATP production. Mitochondrial malfunction can result from versions of OXPHOS protein complexes that consist of incompatible nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. In this ongoing study, we aim to determine the manifestations of genetic incompatibilities on the physiological output of mitochondria. We utilize Nasonia spp. crosses, all containing varying combinations of nuclear alleles and mtDNA, to measure ATP in F2 hybrids. An introgression strain will be used to repair allelic incompatibilities at a locus housing genes involved with OXPHOS pathway protein complexes. Mitochondria will be isolated via homogenization in an isolation buffer from 100 Nasonia larvae of various allelic combinations and subsequently quantified using a luminescent cell viability assay. We expect that hybrids crossed with the introgression strain will have increased ATP production compared to non-introgression strains, indicating that resolving genetic incompatibilities recovers physiological activity of mitochondria.
Much of the world still relies on fossil fuels for energy and transportation, particularly in aviation, where petroleum-based kerosene fuels dominate. The aviation industry is a major contributor to carbon emissions, driving efforts to develop Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) as cleaner alternatives.One such SAF is Fischer-Tropsch (FT) Gas-to-Liquid (GTL) S8 synthetic kerosene, a highly refined paraffinic fuel derived from natural gas. Produced through the Fischer-Tropsch process, S8 contains near-zero sulfur and aromatics, offering the potential for lower emissions than Jet-A. Autoignition characteristics were analyzed in a Constant Volume Combustion Chamber (CVCC), revealing that S8 had a 21.2% higher Derived Cetane Number (DCN) at 59.96. Ignition delay and combustion delay were shorter than Jet-A, while Low Temperature Heat Release (LTHR) energy was comparable. These findings demonstrate S8’s potential as a cleaner aviation fuel, offering reduced environmental impact without sacrificing engine performance.
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) play a crucial role in computer network security by identifying malicious activities and potential cyber attacks. In the past, traditional machine learning methods have been widely used for intrusion detection; however, there are challenges in adapting to new and emerging attack types. This thesis combines machine learning and cybersecurity by applying Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) in intrusion detection using the NSL-KDD dataset. We design and implement an DRL-based framework in which an agent learns to classify network traffic by interacting with an environment and receives rewards based on detection accuracy. We also look at the importance of feature selection and classification techniques and how effective they are in improving detection performance, reducing computational complexity, and enhancing model interpretability. This study highlights the potential of reinforcement learning as a cutting-edge approach to improve modern intrusion detection systems.
This research is about creating bioplastics using oils and materials that are readily available in the environment. Materials like sand and fibers were added to increase the strength of the resin. This is important because successful research such as this would allow for materials to be created with limited resources, without contributing carbon emissions. In preliminary trials the resins were composed of 50% Tung oil, 30% Butyl Methacrylate, 20% Divinylbenzene, and 5% di-tert butyl peroxide. The materials were thoroughly mixed and placed in the oven at 125 ˚C for 18 hours to harden. Varying amounts and sizes of Southern Pines (fibers) and sand reinforcements were added and tested to determine the durability of the resulting composites. In conclusion, the addition of sand and fiber make the resin stronger. The 425 µm size of fibers and the ways of mixing the solution affect the structure of the resin, once dried.
Research indicates that minority stress is related to negative outcomes in sexual or gender minority (SGM) and racial and ethnic minority (REM) individuals. Little research has examined the role of religion as a protective or risk factor for negative mental health outcomes at the intersection of these populations. The current study will examine the intersection between religious, REM, and SGM statuses. Participants will be recruited and answer surveys assessing anxiety, prosocial behaviors, and quality of life through online software. We expect that individuals who identify as REM and SGM will experience elevated feelings of anxiety and lower quality of life, with prosocial behaviors increasing towards in-group members and remaining constant towards out-group members. We expect monotheistic religion to further these outcomes. Findings will assist in understanding the impact of intersecting identities and will help to understand how religion is related to negative mental health outcomes at this intersection.
In order to comprehend mid-ocean ridge processes, this study aim to describe the lithology, mineralogy, and duration of hydrothermal alteration in Reykjanes Ridge basalts. This aligns with Expeditions 395/395C of the International Ocean Discovery Program, where basalt cores are recovered from Sites U1555, U1563, and U1564 along a transect that went from west to east along the face of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Sites U1555(2.8 Ma), U1563(5.2 Ma), and U1564(32.4 Ma) offer a historical context for hydrothermal alteration. Their geological settings which involve the anomaly site (U1564), V-shaped ridges(U1563), and V-shaped troughs(U1555) to provide investigation on the magnetic alterations. In order to correlate magnetic properties, crustal ages, and alteration processes, we study the magnetic properties of the basalts. However, examining changes in the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility will give understanding about the thermal history and alteration of seafloor basalt which will provide insight into the genesis of the North-Atlantic Ocean.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is the most frequently reported tick-borne disease in Georgia; however, Rickettsia rickettsii, its etiologic agent, is rarely found in ticks. In contrast, Rickettsia amblyommatis and R. parkeri are often detected in Georgia. This study examined whether sera from healthy Georgian individuals test positive by diagnostic tests used for RMSF surveillance. Indirect microimmunofluorescence assay (IFA) was utilized to test 113 sera for IgG-type antibodies reacting with R. rickettsii and R. amblyommatis antigens. Seventy-eight sera with IFA titer > 256 were then examined by western blotting (WB). 102 and 103 sera tested IFA-positive with R. rickettsii and R. amblyommatis antigens, respectively. By WB, 18 sera reacted only with Rickettsia surface protein antigens (SPA), 57 reacted with SPA, lipopolysaccharide, and/or other Rickettsia antigens, while 3 had non-specific reactivity. Preliminary WB cross-absorption indicated that R. amblyommatis was the source of exposure. Georgia residents are commonly exposed to tick-borne rickettsiae.
The rapid evolution of cyber warfare presents serious global security threats, highlighting the urgent need for conventions to guide its conduct. Unlike traditional warfare, cyber conflicts can cross borders instantly, jeopardizing civilian infrastructure, economic stability, and national security. Clear conventions could establish accountability, set rules of engagement, and prevent indiscriminate attacks, ensuring responses are proportional. These frameworks would also promote international cooperation in addressing and mitigating threats, reducing the risk of escalation and unintended consequences. Additionally, guidelines could safeguard critical infrastructure and protect civilian data, fostering a more secure cyberspace. Ultimately, the establishment of conventions for cyber warfare is essential to preserving global peace and stability in the digital age. By aligning these frameworks with established principles of international law, we can ensure that the rapidly advancing cyber domain is governed in a way that upholds fairness, security, and the protection of human rights.
Air pollution, both indoor and outdoor, poses significant health risks, especially for young children in daycare centers. Children playing indoors and outdoor playgrounds also release particulate matter, including submicron nanoparticles. This study compares nanoparticle concentrations in indoor daycare environments and outdoor air using a Nanoscan nanoparticle monitor. Geometric mean (GM) and geometric standard deviation (GSD) were used to better characterize exposure patterns. Measurements taken at 12:30 PM in the indoor lobby area of a daycare center at GSU showed a GM of 1.22E+03 and a GSD of 1.38 total nanoparticles per cubic centimeter of air, while outdoor measurements from the children’s playground at 4:50 PM recorded a GM of 1.76E+03 and a GSD of 1.21 total nanoparticles per cubic centimeter of air, both taken on the same day. Results indicate that nanoparticle concentrations are consistently higher outdoors than indoors, with greater variability in outdoor air quality due to childcare activities.
This project investigates how incorporating principles of Public Administration (PA) into Human Resource Management (HRM) can enhance organizational performance. By examining HR practices in both public and private sectors, the study aims to propose a strategic framework that leverages the strengths of both disciplines. This framework is expected to improve efficiency, employee satisfaction, and overall effectiveness in organizations.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate factors that impact malnutrition, particularly stunting and wasting, among preschool children in rural Honduras. Previous research shows high rates of single micronutrient deficiencies in Honduran children, such as vitamin A and iron, which can lead to growth stunting (Rachel et al, 2000). Children under five are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems and the higher risk of dehydration from diarrheal illnesses (Ortiz-Quintero et al., 2024). Our research study consisted of secondary analyses of data collected in Spring 2021 in rural Honduras. Data from 402 Honduran children (200 male and 202 female) were gathered. The majority of the children lived in rural areas (89.5%), though most families do not have a home garden (65.8%). In addition, most children faced food insecurity (74.0%). These factors emphasize the importance of community nutrition among rural children.
The fashion industry plays a crucial role in sustainability, as material composition and shipping distance impact the environment, while pricing shapes consumer choices. This study explores the differences in fabric content, environmental impact, and cost between clothing from local boutiques and large discount stores. It is hypothesized that boutiques will offer higher-quality, more sustainable garments, whereas discount retailers are more likely to rely on synthetic fabrics and less eco-friendly production methods. Using a quantitative sustainability scale, this research assesses fabric composition, shipping distance, and price to highlight the environmental impact of different shopping choices. The findings will equip consumers, particularly college students, with valuable insights for making more sustainable fashion decisions.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, accounting for 1 in 8 female cancers, necessitating the search for novel therapeutic agents. Pyridazines derivatives exhibit anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-fungal properties towards biological and agricultural applications. This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of these compounds, followed by an investigation of their biological properties relevant to breast cancer treatment. Previous studies show that these derivatives exhibit promising interactions with key cellular targets involved in cancer progression. The multi-component synthesis of pyridazines derivatives can be achieved using ionic liquids, which provides a grenner alternative to traditional solvents in organic synthesis.
TU-100 (14-methyl-5H-5,12-epiminobenzo[4,5]cyclohepta[1,2-b]naphthalene-6,11,13(12H)-trione) demonstrates remarkable chemotherapeutic capabilities. It acts through a unique mechanism that induces cell death to generate cytotoxicity and simultaneously inhibits both topoisomerase I and II. Its effectiveness can be compared to that of established chemotherapeutic agents like Daunorubicin, while also acting more rapidly. These unique features of TU100 have spurred efforts to develop structurally analogous compounds in pursuit of even more potent bioactive alternatives. TU100 was synthesized by a 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction with 4-hydroxy-N-methylisquinolium iodide and 1,4-naphthoquinone. The analog synthesis will incorporate quinoxaline or its derivatives that have already demonstrated promising chemotherapeutic effects. Synthesizing the hetero naphthoquinones requires a multi-step synthetic process, so quinoxaline/ derivatives intermediates will be prepared first, then the intermediates will be reacted with 4-hydroxy-N-methylisoquinolinum iodide to yield the TU100 analogs. The TU100 analogs will undergo anti-cancer bioassays, with their bioactivity compared to that of TU100.
Bisindoles are biologically important class of compounds as compared to their corresponding monomeric units. In addition, the synthesis of bisindoles are far more challenging than the synthesis of monomeric indole alkaloids. In this work, we describe an efficient synthesis of bisindole sulfanes starting from common laboratory reagent iodine and green solvent such as DMSO.
Metformin Hydrochloride ([MTF][HCl]) is a hydrophilic biguanide compound, typically prescribed to patients diagnosed with type (II) diabetes mellitus or prediabetes. The hydrophilic nature of [MTF][HCl] causes the in vivo mechanistic action to breakdown at a fast rate and lowers the effective biological availability within the blood-based glucose interactive system. Thus, increasing the drugs’ ability to have an extended and prolonged release through an oral capacity is essential. This study utilizes metformin HCl alongside six hydrophobic anions to synthesize uniform materials based on organic salts (GUMBOS). Employing chitosan and alginate as principal biopolymers and novel GUMBOS, a proposed system to create MTF-based GUMBOS complexed within chitosan-alginate patches through a gelation process will allow for an extended and increased integration of metformin transdermally. This will allow for an optimization of the drug encapsulated patches and assess the increased capacity for drug delivery through an in vitro system.
wr04624@georgiasouthern.edu, Honors College, College of Science and Mathematics
William Russell is a pre-health biochemistry student from Columbus, Georgia, with a passion for exploring sustainable and novel applications in medicinal therapeutics. His research focuses on innovative approaches to drug delivery and repurposing, with an emphasis on developing environmentally... Read More →
TU100 is a naphthoquinone adduct from a 3+2 cycloaddition reaction between N-methyl-4-hydroxylisoquinolinium and 1,4-napthoquinone, following the method established by DiCesare et al. Current research focuses on synthesizing TU100 analogs. The reaction between quinones and N-methylhydroxylisoquinolinium iodides were attempted to produce novel compounds. After extraction, flash column chromatography was employed to separate the product from remaining starting materials, followed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to assess purity. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was frequently used to monitor reaction progress. Expanding the library of TU100 analogs is crucial in getting an analog with optimized biological activity and enhanced potential as chemotherapeutic agents.
This testimonio research, a methodological, strength-based approach, explores the dynamics of pedagogies of home (Delgado-Bernal, 2001). It analyzes the experiences, communication, and practices of ten immigrant Latinx mothers in fostering their children’s educational success. This project highlights the pivotal role of the “curriculum of the home” (Schubert, 1982) as essential for understanding educational phenomena within their contexts. Positioned within the field of Curriculum Studies in Education, it recognizes the informal, culturally based curriculum of the home as a foundational component of educational experiences.
In South Atlantic fishing communities, women have emerged as a cooperative voice, unifying previously disconnected industry elements. Fishing is stereotypically viewed as male-dominated, but research suggests women participate in land-based post-processing, management, and finances. These shore-based roles allow for strong familial and community ties where multi-generational groups cooperate for industry sustainability. This project analyzes the oral history and qualitative data describing a fishing industry supported by women as wives, kinsfolk, dock managers, fishers, and crew. Data suggest that familial and financial motivations might initially pull women into the industry, but community tipping points further drive female-led bridge-building within fishing communities.
Air purifiers are frequently employed to reduce indoor air pollutants; however, the effectiveness of these devices in decreasing airborne particulate matter (PM) remains underexplored. This study's aim was to assess the impact of an air purifier on PM reduction in a typical indoor home setting.
Methods: A commercially available air purifier equipped with a prefilter filtering PM and an activated carbon filter neutralizing gases was tested. PM number (0.3-10µm) and mass concentrations were monitored by CEM DT-9881 and DustTrak DRX monitors before and after 15 min air purification.
Results: The total particle number concentrations decreased from 152770 ± 8023179 /m³ to 7435.33 ± 2133.43 /m³. Total mean (±SD) PM mass concentrations decreased from 0.03033 ± 0.01864 mg/m³ to 0.01267 ± 0.01138 mg/m³. The most effective reduction was observed for particles of 0.3 µm sizes. A Student's t-test conducted on the mass concentrations (using VassarStats) demonstrated a statistically significant difference between the two samples (p = 0.02933).
Conclusion: The preliminary results demonstrate that air purifiers are effective at different levels for particles of different sizes in reducing their concentrations in a typical indoor setting.
In the United States only 60% of children live with their married biological parents as of 2022 (Anderson, 2014; Hemez, 2024). There is evidence that experiencing a parental divorce may have negative effects on the child that last into adulthood (Wolchik et al. 2021). Across approximately 30 studies, adult children of divorce have generally more negative outcomes than adult children from intact families. The Amato (2014) study found that adult children of divorce tend to have a higher risk for lower income, less education, more non-marital birth rates, and poorer health. The goal of this review is to look at the literature regarding how experiencing different family structures such as single parenthood, divorce, step families, etc. might have lasting effects into young adulthood and how it affects the overall well-being as well as educational attainment.
Individuals emotionally regulate daily through a variety of means, some healthy and some not. It is important to find accessible means of managing emotions which promote a healthier lifestyle. As an art form, music is widely available and heavily associated with emotions, as different works evoke particular feelings. Anecdotally, individuals use music to de-stress or relax, but how effective is music for emotion regulation, and does usage of music lead to more positive outcomes? Results from 15 studies indicate individual variance, but commonalities include age, disposition, and familiarity as predictive factors. Furthermore, strategy is an important predictor of well-being, with reappraisal proving more effective than suppression, especially when paired with music (Chin & Rickard, 2013). Current gaps include what emotions individuals choose to regulate with music, and when it is most effective. This review will cover the ways music can be used to emotionally regulate and how effective it can be.
Efforts to make suicide prevention more effective for service members are ongoing, with military chaplains often serving as the first line of care (Lee-Tauler et al., 2023). Service members who hesitate to seek mental health care may be more comfortable confiding in chaplains, who provide a nonjudgmental space without reporting concerns through the chain of command. This literature review explores how military chaplains influence service members’ self-awareness and meaning-making using a symbolic interactionist perspective, emphasizing how people reshape their identities through social interactions (Cockerham, 2021). Findings indicate that trained chaplains can help service members develop healthier coping mechanisms, showing the critical role of chaplains and community support in suicide prevention.
References Cockerham, W. (2021). Sociology of Mental Disorder, 11th edition. Routledge. Lee-Tauler, S. Y., Grammar, J., LaCroix, J., Walsh, A. K., Clark, S. E., Holloway, K. J., Sundararaman, R., Carter, K. M., Crouterfield, B., Hazlett, G. R., Hess, R. M., Miyahara, J. M., Varsogea, C. E., Whalen, C., & Ghahramanlou-Holloway, M. (2023). Pilot evaluation of the online ‘chaplains-care’ program: Enhancing skills for United States Military suicide intervention practices and care. Journal of Religion and Health, 62, 3856 - 3873. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-023-01882-9
Forecasting is essential for predicting trends and supporting public health decisions. This study applies the Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model to analyze and forecast Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevalence using monthly data (2010–2021) from Jibril Mai-Gwari I Memorial Hospital, Birnin Gwari, Nigeria. Among eight models, ARIMA(0,1,2)(0,0,1)₁₂ was the best fit based on the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Mean Squared Error (MSE), and Log-Likelihood. Residual diagnostics confirmed model adequacy, with normally distributed residuals (Shapiro-Wilk test, p = 0.5239) and no significant autocorrelations (Ljung-Box test). The forecast suggests a decline in HIV prevalence, highlighting ARIMA's effectiveness in capturing epidemiological trends and informing public health interventions. This study is conducted in collaboration with Dr. Okeniyi, O.M., Department of Statistics, Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria.
do05368@georgiasouthern.edu, College of Science and Mathematics
My name is Daniel Olofin, and I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Statistics at Georgia Southern University. I am passionate about applying statistical and computational methods to solve real-world problems in healthcare, clinical research, and drug development. With a... Read More →
In Georgia, the 2013 National Tobacco Control Strategy, five-year Action Plan, and 2017 law amendments laid the groundwork for a comprehensive tobacco control package implemented in May 2018. This study examined adolescent past-month tobacco and nicotine use before and after the policy changes.
Methods: The observational study was based on data from 2014, 2017, and 2023 Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS).
Results: The proportion of teenagers not using tobacco increased from 84.7% (2014) to 86.8% (2023). While cigarette-only use declined significantly (5.1% to 1.2%), e-cigarette use peaked in 2017 (6.4%) before declining (5.2% in 2023). Poly-use decreased (5.5% to 3.5%), and pro-tobacco exposure significantly decreased (1.26 to 0.50).
Conclusion: Legislative measures of 2018 appear to have a positive public health impact in terms of denormalizing and reducing the use of tobacco products assessed with GYTS, though e-cigarette use remains a concern.
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in the U.S., affecting about 40 million adults each year (Cockerham, 2021). Women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and often experience comorbid conditions that worsen symptoms. Since health is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors, this literature review is framed by the biopsychosocial model (Engel, 1977). Women often feel more anxious because of social expectations to control their emotions, take care of relationships, and stay safe. On top of that, women from minoritized groups may face extra stress due to racial discrimination. Mental health providers should focus on how U.S. society and culture affect mental health and need to consider gender inequality, which increases women’s risk of anxiety (Farhane-Medina et al., 2022).
We review and compare the electromagnetism principles underlying two major biosensing techniques based on distinct optical phenomena: Attenuated Total Reflection and Surface Plasmon Resonance. We explore how these spectroscopic methods enable biosensing applications, such as identifying biomolecules in blood. Additionally, we discuss how future research into other spectroscopic techniques utilizing evanescent waves can further advance biosensing capabilities.
Large components are inherently complex and expensive to cast using traditional methodologies. Using wire arc additive manufacturing, large format components can frequently be produced more economically and within a shorter time frame. These components frequently exhibit less porosity, and can have qualities that are desirable relative to casting. It is not uncommon for austenitic stainless steels to be utilized in large industrial castings. For this reason, a 316L stainless steel structure is producing using this technology, and its strength, porosity, and microstructure is characterized for industrial use.
WRAPS aims to increase the interest and participation of undergraduate students in writing peer-reviewed research articles by making the process easier. This can be achieved by helping students develop confidence, exposure, and proficiency in writing peer-reviewed scientific papers. WRAPS will also enhance the broader skills (time management, discipline, self-awareness, communication, teamwork, and adaptability) necessary for academic and professional success. To achieve this goal, this workbook is designed as a 15-week (one semester) process, where students are introduced to weekly worksheets that help them ease into the writing process. This project will help you understand the pathway taken to achieve the final product in the form of a workbook and share the data obtained during the process.
