Scholars Day 2023

S C H O L A R S ’ D AY

Sponsored by:

RESEARCH

Welcome to the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s Spring 2023 Watson Scholars' Day. Sponsored by UMHB's Office of Research, Scholars' Day showcases outstanding undergraduate and graduate student research conducted on campus under the guidance and leadership of our extraordinary faculty members. Members of the UMHB Scholars' Day Committee, listed below, serve as the organizing body of the Scholars' Day event. Over 120 UMHB students and 20 faculty sponsors have contributed to this spring’s presentations. All presentations are located in the Bawcom Student Union Building (BSUB).

Scholars' Day Committee Dr. Jodi Pilgrim Director of Undergraduate Research Dr. Kris Ward Director, Office of Research Dr. Kim Bodenhamer Dr. Kindyle Brennan Dr. Karla Gonzalez Dr. Janene Lewis Dr. Mandy Parra Dr. Matt Smith Dr. Paul Stock Dr. Kathleen Wood

*Cover art designed by Lorenza Davenport, an undergraduate of UMHB’s College of Visual and Performing Arts.

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Schedule of Events

Time

Event

8:00 a.m. 8:25 a.m.

Location (BSUB)

Introductory remarks

McLane Great Hall E

8:30 a.m. 9:50 a.m.

Podium presentations

McLane Great Hall A-D: A- Quantitative Category B- Quantitative Category C- Literature Reviews D- Qualitative & Creative Production

10:00 a.m. 10:45 a.m.

11:00 a.m. 11:45 a.m.

12:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m.

Poster presentations, Session 1 (odd numbered posters) Poster presentations, Session 2 (even numbered posters) Lunch and Scholars’ Day awards

McLane Great Hall Lobby McLane Great Hall Lobby McLane Great Hall E

This year, we have scholars participating In the following research categories: Quantitative Research: Quantitative research reflects analysis of numeric data. Using scientific inquiry, quantitative research relies on data that are observed or measured to answer a research question. Quantitative presentations should include a research question, data collection, data analysis, and findings.

Qualitative Research: Qualitative methods, as the name indicates, are methods that do not involve measurement or statistics. Qualitative data can help us to understand why, how, or what happened behind certain behaviors through an exploration of concepts and experiences (participant observation, interviews, etc.). Qualitative presentations should include a research question, data collection, data analysis, and findings.

Literature Review: A literature review is a comprehensive summary of previous research on a topic. The purpose is to determine what knowledge and ideas have been established on a topic. The literature review must be defined by a guiding concept, which may include a research objective, the problem or issue being discussed, or an argumentative thesis.

Creative Production: Creative productions include original works in music, art, fiction, and poetry. Note: The creative piece should not have been published elsewhere.

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PODIUM PANELS

8:30 a.m. - 9:50 a.m.

McLane Great Hall A - D Bawcom Student Union Building

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Panel A (MCLANE GREAT HALL A) 8:30-8:45 a.m.

"The Identification of Bacteria Nodulating Sesbania herbacea" Category: Quantitative Research Author(s): Karlie Kalischko, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kathleen Wood Description: Sesbania herbacea obtains a unique growing environment in both flooded and arid regions. Due to its original growth patterns, I performed a series of research methodology to identify the rhizobium nodulating Sesbania herbacea.

8:50-9:05 a.m.

The Effects of Acidity and Copper Content on Metal Leaching from Glazed Pottery Category: Quantitative Research Author(s): Gavin Gallop, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: Acidic foods and beverages are known to leach metal ions out of glazed ceramic surfaces during contact, and this project aims to quantitatively examine the magnitude of this phenomenon under conditions of varying copper content in-glaze and varying acidity of the contact solution.

9:10-9:25 a.m.

Investigating Dry-Heat Sensitivity in Seeds using Arabidopsis thaliana Category: Quantitative Research Author(s): Jadon Sitton, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Andrew Woodward Description: This study investigated the effects of dry-heat exposure on Arabidopsis thaliana seeds. A trial comparing wild-type seeds and

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knockout mutant seeds was conducted, and found that there was no significant difference between the mutant and wild type seeds in terms of seed viability following heat treatment.

9:30-9:45 a.m.

Effects of Omalizumab on Transcriptome of Immune Cells Responsible For Allergic Responses Category: Quantitative Research Author(s): Emma Johnson, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Joni Ylostalo Description: This project identifies overall and specific transcriptome changes in basophils exposed to Omalizumab, a drug initially manufactured as an asthma treatment. Rather than enrolling volunteers, published transcriptomes from Omalizumab-treated patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (hives with unknown cause) were analyzed using the Transcriptome Analysis Console software.

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Panel B (MCLANE GREAT HALL B) 8:30-8:45 a.m.

Colorful Connections: The Relationship Between Synesthesia, Creativity, and Memory Category: Quantitative Research Author(s): Lan Salazar, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Trent Terrell Description: This project investigates the potential link between individuals displaying synesthesia-type symptoms and increase creativity and memory. A survey was conducted among undergraduate college students in 2022 that includes renowned neurologist David Eagleman's, synesthesia Battery Test, creativity evaluation inquiries, and questions about academic assessment.

8:50-9:05 a.m.

Determining effects of rest on stress in full-time students at The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Category: Quantitative Research Author(s): Abriella Loya, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Seena Mathew Description: The study's purpose was to determine how rest can affect stress levels in students at UMHB. By providing a nurturing environment for students to rest between classes, the impacts of rest were seen through physiological changes in blood pressure and heart rate, along with psychological changes in rated stress levels.

9:10-9:25 a.m.

Agreement Between Body Mass Index and Percent Body Fat in Resistance Trained Men and Women Category: Quantitative Research Author(s): Christine Florez, Grant Tinsley, Ariane Secrest, Collin Wilborn, and Lem Taylor, School of Exercise and Sport Science

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Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lem Taylor Description: BMI is a noninvasive, anthropometric measurement used for weight classification. Though the limitations of the BMI formula are well known, it is still commonly used in clinical settings.

The purpose of this analysis was to analyze the agreement between BMI classification and measured body fat in a resistance-trained population.

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Panel C (MCLANE GREAT HALL C) 8:30-8:45 a.m.

Staying Power: A Review of Literature for Teacher Attrition Causes and Solutions Category: Literature Review Author(s): Joel Maresh, College of Education Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Brenda Morton Description: Teacher attrition rates have steadily increased in recent years, and with the introduction of the COVID-19 pandemic, the negative factors causing teachers to leave the profession have worsened. This literature review explores the causes and potential solutions of the teacher retention crisis.

8:50-9:05 a.m.

The Effects of Interpersonal Styles on Small-team based Performance Category: Literature Review Author(s): Macaiah McCown, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Joshua Bias Description: Multiple studies have examined the relationship of individuals interpersonal styles among a team and their overall level of performance. The data collection in this analysis was created to examine this as well through the oversight from Topsarge Business Solutions with the data collection through Everything DiSC Workplace.

9:10-9:25 a.m.

Challenges Facing Higher Education: The Generation Gap is Real Category: Literature Review Author(s): Devera Shipp, College of Education Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Brenda Morton

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Description: Terror in schools, free education trends, prominence of technology, casual drug use, a world-wide pandemic, and polarizing political climates: This is the world of today’s high school students entering college. What are institutions doing to prepare for a generation of students who present issues yet to been seen in the history of U. S. higher education?

9:30-9:45 a.m.

The Things Left Behind and What She Saw Category: Creative Production Author(s): Olivia Lewis, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Christianna Mancha Description: The prose piece The Things Left Behind goes through the stages of Nina's life through objects in her room. Nina is going off to college and the things left behind in her room reminiscent on who she has become.

The poem "What She Saw" is a sestina about sisterhood. One sister is deaf and the other sister surprises her by signing for the first time in a garden.

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Panel D (MCLANE GREAT HALL D) 8:30-8:45 a.m.

Church Growth and Decline: An Ethnographic Study of Congregational Culture Category: Qualitative Research Author(s): Mars Pejovic and Carolina Wells Gonzalez, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Todd Ferguson Description: Strict Church Theory and Religious Ecology and Theory both work together to impact the culture in a religious congregation. We conducted an ethnographic case study using participant observation to understand how these two theories work together at a Mainline Protestant Church.

8:50-9:05 a.m.

Bell County Bilingual Resources for Medical and Social Services Category: Qualitative Author(s): Katy Melton, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Karla Gonzalez Description: This presentation, delivered in Spanish, will discuss the current resources available in Bell County related to medical and social services for lower-income families that communicate in languages other than English, and the importance of having more resources available in their preferred language.

9:10-9:25 a.m.

A Study of Elementary Teachers’ Perceptions of Technology Support at Private Texas Schools During the Onset of the Global Pandemic Category: Qualitative Author(s): Kayla Abshire, College of Education Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jodi Pilgrim

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Description: This qualitative collective case study explores elementary teachers’ transitions to remote learning and their experiences with technology use as the pandemic hit the US in 2020.

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POSTER SESSIONS

McLane Great Hall Lobby (Floors 2 and 3) Session 1: Odd numbered posters (10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.)

Session 2: Even-numbered posters (11:00 - 11:45 a.m.)

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Bawcom Student Union Building

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Readability: A Study of STAAR Reading Levels for 2019, 2021, and 2022

Category: Quantitative Author(s): Catherine Porfirio, Emily Kinney, Jason Samuel, Alexis Stokes, and Angela Valdez, College of Education Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jodi Pilgrim Description: This quantitative study examines the reading level of English Language Arts STAAR assessment passages for grades 3-6, in recent years.

These reading levels, calculated by multiple readability methods, aim to verify if the text the students are being assessed on is appropriate for their comprehension abilities.

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Readability Statistics: What Does Chat GPT Say?

Category: Quantitative Author(s): Kassidy Hobbs, Caprial Taylor, Trinity McEowen, and Lataevia Thomas, College of Education Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jodi Pilgrim Description: Assessments should align with grade level standards. The project focuses on the readability of the STAAR test for grades 3-6 to make sure students are being tested at an appropriate level. One purpose of the study was to compare Chat GPT responses to the Flesch Kincaid algorithms.

Results for the 2017-2022 years will be shared.

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Media Influences

Category: Literature Review Author(s): Lydia Knight, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Amy Eichler Description: This project is an introduction to a study being conducted by Dr. Harman who will be investigating the impact of a documentary on perceptions and attitudes towards family members. A review of the literature over the positive and negative impacts of media on beliefs, emotions, and behaviors will be presented.

4.

Cold War on Ice: Comparing U.S. vs. Russia Figure Skating Through their Governing Bodies

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Category: Quantitative Author(s): Caitlin Beaty and Alexis Kokel, Mayborn College Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: Analyzing the governing bodies of Russian and American figure skating. Using the NSGO (National Sport Governance Observer), we will evaluate the Figure Skating Federation of Russia by comparing the results we collect from the NSGO tool to that of research done over the U.S. Figure Skating using the NSGO tool.

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The Ruck and Roll: Comparing governing bodies of the USA and New Zealand Rugby

Category: Quantitative Author(s): Cal Robinson and Win Goodwin, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: We will examine they key characteristics of effective governance through the National Sports Governing Observer. Using the NSGO as a guide we will compare rugby national governing bodies both in the United States of America and New Zealand.

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Comparison of National Hoops Between the United States and Germany

Category: Quantitative Author(s): Jeremiah Phillips and Jacob Cote, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: Our research project is comparing the national governing bodies of America and Germany basketball and rating them on the widely recognized scale of the National Governing Sport Observer (NSGO).

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The Influence of Diet on Locomotion of Seizure-Induced Drosophila melanogaster

Category: Quantitative Author(s): Melody Carl, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Seena Mathew

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Description: This study aimed to determine the effect of diet on seizure recovery in Drosophila melanogaster. Flies of different mutations were given one of three diets: yeast, 0.5% fructose, and 0.5% NaCl. Seizures were induced in the flies, and their movements were subsequently recorded using a locomotion monitor.

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Analysis of Public Water Lead Contamination and its Effects on Public Health and Juvenile Delinquency

Category: Quantitative Author(s): Rebecca Reeves, Christine Willett, and Julia DeWitt, Collaborative Research Project for Alpha Chi (Cross-Disciplinary) Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jodi Pilgrim and Dr. Amy Millsap Description: This study examines lead levels in three Texas Counties and compares the levels with juvenile delinquency rates to analyze possible relationships. It also examines how well the public is informed about lead contamination in public drinking water.

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Comparing the Governance of USA Diving and Chinese Underwater Association

Category: Quantitative Author(s): Trevon Sims and Trenton West, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: The purpose of this presentation is to compare the governing bodies of USA Diving and the Chinese Underwater Association through the use of the National Sport Governance Observer (NSGO). The use of the NSGO helps evaluate the importance of governing processes and components.

10. The Examination in Karate National Governing Bodies Japan vs United States Category: Quantitative Author(s): Larry Telles and Dontroy Sterling, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: We will be examining the United States and Japanese karate National governing bodies and evaluating their efficiency. We will assess

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how each governing body operates while utilizing the National Sports Governing Observer (NSGO) to be able to see how well they run effectively.

11. Analyses of Second-Site Suppressor Mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana pex4-1 Category: Quantitative Author(s): Dat Nguyen, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Andrew Woodward Description: Mutation of PEX4, an enzyme associated with the peroxisomal membrane, can have detrimental effects on human and plant development.

This ongoing research aims to find double mutations that would repair or offset pex4-1 phenotypes using Arabidopsis thaliana as the model organism.

12. What Makes You Beautiful- A Literature Review of Cosmetic Botulinum Injections: Daxxify vs Botox Category: Literature Review Author(s): Danica Komlofske, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: Cosmetic Botulinum injections, commonly known as Botox (OnabotuliniumtoxinA) and Daxxify (DaxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm), are often used to smooth out glabellar lines and other cosmetic features on a person's face. This literature study focuses on analyzing their biochemical role in smoothing out glabellar lines and comparing their clinical trials to see which injection is longer lasting.

13. The Impact of Social Determinants on the Prevalence of Cirrhosis in Romania Category: Qualitative Author(s): Sarah Grace Merry, Kaitlyn Faulk, Maria Severson, and Tesdenya Firew, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Nicole Poritsanos Description: The study focuses on the burden of disease presented specifically by Cirrhosis in association with the data reported from peerreviewed social determinants of health as well as demographic and epidemiological factors in the country of Romania.

14. The Chemistry of Tirzepatide in vivo: A Literature Analysis

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Category: Literature Review Author(s): Katieana Amponsah, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: Tirzepatide is a novel peptide-based medication being developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. In vivo studies have demonstrated its ability to simultaneously activate the GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors. Its singular chemistry and pharmacological properties make it a candidate for the management of these chronic conditions.

15. Causes and Risk Factors of Infant Mortality: Diarrheal Diseases and Neonatal Disorders in Angola Category: Literature Review Author(s): Kristine Meyer, Madison Miranda, Sierra Romero, and Hayden Lourcey, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Nicole Poritsanos Description: This literature review examines Angola’s infant mortality rate as a marker of the country's overall health pertaining to the causes and risk factors of diarrheal diseases and neonatal disorders. Additionally, it provides insight into policies in place and recommends amendments to current efforts to improve the health of Angola’s society.

16. The Urgent Need for Preventative Measures Against Tuberculosis in Bangladesh Category: Qualitative Author(s): Emerald Houston, Ashley Claypool, Ashlyn Gordon, Russell Vadala, and Alex Palczewski, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Nicole Poritsanos Description: Addressing factors that contribute to the cause of tuberculosis in the developing nation of Bangladesh. A synopsis of peer-reviewed literature that pertains to Bangladesh and the interventions made to prevent the ongoing tuberculosis crisis.

17. Who does it better?: Analyzing the national governing bodies of the U.S gymnastics and the United Kingdom gymnastics

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Category: Quantitative Author(s): Emily Tovar and Arieona Rosborough, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: We’ll be using the National Sport Governing Observer as a tool to analyze the national governing bodies regarding gymnastics. Specifically, we will look at two countries: the United States of America and the United Kingdom. The purpose of our research is to look at the effectiveness of these governing bodies.

18. Literature Review of Anthocyanins and Their Properties Category: Literature Review Author(s): Justin Arroyo and Amy Millsap, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Amy Millsap Description: Anthocyanins are a group of water-soluble molecules that are frequently found in plants. One of the unique things about anthocyanins are their antimicrobial properties. Research can be done to test multiple anthocyanin extracts from different foods to see their ability to inhibit bacterial growth.

19. Testing The In Vitro Antimicrobial Properties of Various Crude Mycelia Extracts Category: Literature Review Author(s): Justin Johnson, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Amy Millsap Description: There have been studies linking inhibition of various microbial growth in media through the presence of fungal mycelia. In this study, the goal was to extract various mycelia compounds into a crude extract so that these values may be observed in an experimental environment.

20. The Shelf Life of Besremi. A Polycythemia Treatment: A Literature Analysis.

Category: Literature Review Author(s): Amber Dickey, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy

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Description: This study analyzes preexisting data on the shelf life of Besremi, a treatment for polycythemia, for the 250 micrograms per 0.5 milliliter of solution dosage. The study focuses on the shelf life of the drug under standard conditions, and how changing those conditions affects the stability of the drug.

21. The Dictators of Surfing Category: Quantitative Author(s): Scott Curtis and Lamardcus Donahue, School of Exercise and Sport Science Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: We will be comparing and contrasting the governing bodies of Surfing for the countries Australia and the United States. These governing bodies will be evaluated on what they do and how effective these organizations are. As well researching who is in power and who makes certain decisions in these organizations.

22. Off the Court: Determining the Efficiency of the USA & Canada’s Volleyball Governing Bodies Category: Quantitative Author(s): Addison Ashley and Brooke Grissom, School of Exercise and Sport Science Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: This project will compare the national regulators of volleyball in the United States of America and Canada, which are the overarching administrators of volleyball in these countries. In this evaluation, we will utilize the National Sports Governance Observer tool to analyze the efficiency of governance of these nations.

23. Regulating Baseball: USA vs. Japan Category: Quantitative Author(s): Erick Roberts and Cameron Bogan, School of Exercise and Sport Science Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: This project represents the evaluation of the national governing bodies for baseball in the United States and Japan. Our team compares the

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two governing organizations’ operations and decision-making process using data and facts from the National Sport Governing Observer (NSGO).

24. The Antimicrobial Effects of Essential Oils Against Bacteria Category: Quantitative Author(s): Katie Fizer and Amy Millsap, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Amy Millsap Description: The use of essential oils has increased due to the claims of low toxicity, while still maintaining the same effectiveness as traditional cleaners. To test these antimicrobial effects, essential oils such as lemongrass, peppermint, and thyme are tested at varying concentrations against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.

25. A Multi-Temperature Study of Viscosity Variations and Activation Energies of Viscous Flow in Commercial Sports Drinks Category: Quantitative Author(s): Zachary Carroll, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: The rapid absorption of beverages, such as during strenuous athletic contests, can be a factor in avoiding dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The viscosities of beverages influence their absorption and bioavailability. Popular sports drinks such as GatoradeTM were analyzed to determine their viscosities as a function of sugar and caffeine content.

26. Microplastics in local water systems Category: Quantitative Author(s): Matthew Sanders and Amy Millsap, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Amy Millsap Description: I will be analying the amount of microplastics in local water systems before and after water treatment.

27. The Implications of DDT on the Environment and Humans Category: Literature Review Author(s): Mallory Fitzner and Amy Millsap, College of Humanities and Sciences

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Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Amy Millsap Description: A literature review showing the large scale impact of DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) based pesticides on the environment, and demonstrating the correlation of negative and positive impacts inflicted on humans because of the use of DDT pesticides. Conclusions about the environmental impacts from DDT can be correlated to the impacts on humanity.

28. The Antimicrobial Effects of Didecyl Dimethyl Ammonium Bromide Category: Quantitative Author(s): Alyssa Washam and Amy Millsap, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Amy Millsap Description: In this experiment, the antibacterial effects of didecyl dimethyl ammonium bromide are tested using the disk diffusion test and a surface cleaning test.

29. The Chemistry of Voxzogo, a Prescription Medicine for Treatment of Dwarfism in Children – A Literature Analysis Category: Literature Review Author(s): James Fortson, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: A literature study of the chemistry of voxzogo, a prescription medicine which is used as a treatment for achondroplasia, a form of shortlimbed bone growth, was conducted.

30. Genetic Study of Neuroblastoma and Wilms Tumor Development in Fanconi Anemia Patients Category: Quantitative Author(s): Jakayla Pink and Joni Ylostalo, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Joni Ylostalo Description: Fanconi anemia is a genetic disorder that leads to cancer development, which is difficult to treat since cancer treatment causes toxicity in FA patients. This research investigates how different drugs affect gene expression of the FANCD1 and FANCN genes that lead to Neuroblastoma and Wilms tumor in FA patients.

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31. First Responders and Mental Health Care Accessibility Category: Quantitative Author(s): Angelina Mariduena, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Janene Lewis Description: This study investigated the disparity of mental health care accessibility in first responders from the Central Texas area. The primary focus was if the first responder personnel had access to mental health care through their job and if they felt they could use it.

32. Two World’s Collide: USA vs Lithuania Boxing Category: Quantitative Author(s): Emariyee Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: This project is utilizing the National Sports Governing Observer (NSGO) to evaluate and create quantitative research to examine the processes of the United States National Governing body for Boxing.

33. Genetic Biomedical Applications of Shrimp Collagen: A Viscoelastic Study Category: Quantitative Author(s): Lyndsey Schwope, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: The purpose of this experiment is to test the viability of using shrimp shell collagen for biomedical applications. The procedure involves extracting the collagen from shrimp shells and testing for changes in its viscoelastic properties upon timed exposure to ultraviolet radiation and heat.

34. The Effects of Socioeconomic Status on Asthma-Related Emergency Department Visits Category: Quantitative Author(s): Lydia Favela, Alisha Samnani, Caroline Abraham, Zoe Elledge, and Wendi Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart

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Description: Proper asthma management requires access to medication and treatment at primary care offices. Patients unable to comply with asthma action plans often suffer from complications and poor pulmonary function.

Research has shown asthma diagnosis is disproportionately higher among racial and ethnic minorities of low socioeconomic status. This study aimed to determine if a relationship was present between socioeconomic status and asthma-related outcomes in the pediatric population.

35. The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Prenatal Care and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Category: Quantitative Author(s): Emily Santos, Brenna Gabaldon, Loralyn Wafful, Scott Stephens, and Wendi Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: The COVID-19 pandemic forced unprecedented adjustments in everyday life, including access to quality health care. There were universal concerns about COVID-19 exposures during the routine healthcare of pregnant patients. This study investigated possible associations of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to prenatal care and pregnancy outcomes.

36. Factors Contributing to Non-Urgent Emergency Department Usage in Minority Populations Category: Quantitative Author(s): Chris Mann, Erica Richardson, Rebecca Gleason, and Wendi Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: Minorities comprise the highest percentage of patients regularly using the emergency department (ED). Studies have shown that minority patients, those of lower socioeconomic status, and patients with limited resources seek care from the emergency room for non-urgent primary care needs. This study determined the incidence of individual ethnic groups' use of the emergency room for non-urgent needs.

37. Prevalence of Relapse in Young Adult Smokers Category: Quantitative Author(s): DeAnna Hernandez, Lynsey Juarez, Taylor Hicks, and Wendi Stewart Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart

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Description: Although smoking tobacco has become more regulated, smoking remains a leading risk factor for early death and disability worldwide. Each day in the United States, approximately 1,600 youth smoke their first cigarette, and nearly 200 youth start smoking daily. The study aimed to identify the root causes of smoking in young adults to prevent future cases.

38. Associations Between Hallucinogen Use and Depression-Related Outcomes Among US Adults Category: Quantitative Author(s): Santos Sarabia, Summer Megli, Eric Pfister, and Wendi Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This cross-sectional study used the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health to investigate the effects of recreational hallucinogen use in people with depression. This study focuses on the association between recreational hallucinogen use and rates of traditional medical treatment for depression, hospitalization due to severe depression, and suicide.

39. The Relationship Between Prenatal Care and Preterm Birth Category: Quantitative Author(s): Kara Marcum, Michael Shepherd, and Wendi Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: In America, roughly 9.8% of all births occur prematurely. A lack of prenatal care and ethnic minority status are two of the most prevalent risk factors predisposing women to preterm delivery.This study examined the relationship between prenatal care and preterm births, concluding that decreased antepartum care leads to high-risk premature birth.

40. Childhood Obesity: Is School Lunch to Blame?

Category: Quantitative Author(s): Karina Patel, Presley Carroll, Marli Hinojosa, Margaret Turner, and Wendi Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart

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Description: The prevalence of childhood obesity was reported to be near 20% in 2020. High-caloric food and high-fructose drinks have been shown to contribute to this increase, though little is known about how school lunches contribute to increased Body Mass Index (BMI). This study examined schoolage children participating in the New Jersey Obesity Study (NJOS) and the relationship between free/reduced lunch participation and BMI.

41. E-Cigarettes: How harmful do you think they are?

Category: Quantitative Author(s): Kendyl Kimbler, Anna Riley Crenshaw, Hunter Hutson, Kathleen McHugh, and Wendi Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: As of 2018, an estimated eight million adults in the United States used electronic cigarettes. There is much misunderstanding and misguided information on the health effects of e-cigarette use. This study evaluated the general public’s perception of the use of e-cigarettes.

42. An Evaluation of Trust Between Hispanic Patients and Their Providers During COVID 19 Category: Quantitative Author(s): Lori Gunnels, Joshua Gunnels, Ian Baker, and Wendi Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the country's significant racial and ethnic health disparities affecting life expectancy and mortality.

Minority populations suffered more health consequences with long-term effects from the COVID-19 pandemic. This study investigated the trust individuals of Hispanic/Latino ethnicity had for their providers during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to non-Hispanic Caucasian individuals.

43. ADHD and Incarcerated Youth Category: Quantitative Author(s): Madelyn Pearse, Payton Nance, Colton Meadows, and Wendi Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: Attention Deficiency Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) is a diagnosis primarily found in youth who suffer from hyperactive and inattentive

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symptoms. A 2016-2019 survey by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) revealed that six million children were diagnosed with ADHD, which had increased from a previous survey. ADHD can increase the risk of developing antisocial and substance abuse disorder, leading to increased incarceration.

This study investigated the incidence of ADHD in incarcerated youth in Maricopa County, AZ, and Philadelphia County, PA.

44. Major Depressive Disorder in Texas Compared to the United States Category: Quantitative Author(s): Shannon Webb, Irene Correll, Hope Brents, Lea Campbell, and Wendi Stewart, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is becoming a more relevant and discussed issue in society today. MDD is well known to have long-term adverse effects on individuals affecting their personal, social, and work lives.

In hopes of increasing provider awareness, this study compared the incidence of MDD in Texas to the United States.

45. Factor Analysis: Manual Extraction vs SPSS Extraction Category: Quantitative Author(s): Erica Hummel and Kevin Barlow, College of Education Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kevin Barlow Description: The problem addressed in the present study is the limitation of using pre-designed software, such as the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), for factor analysis. This study aims to compare methods of factor analysis extraction through manual calculations and SPSS calculations.

46. Effects of Muscular Fatigue on Endurance Athletes During a Backyard Ultra Race: A Pilot Study Category: Quantitative Author(s): Dylon Miller, Jaci Davis, Christine Florez, and Mandy Parra, Mayborn College of Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mandy Parra Description: To measure the effect of neuromuscular fatigue on countermovement jump metrics using force plates.

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47. FORE: A Comparison between the PGA of America and the PGA European Tour Category: Quantitative Author(s): Dalton Lloyd and Jaden Rye, College of Humanities and Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: In this study, we will be assessing and observing the governing bodies of golf in the United States and the United Kingdom using the National Sports Governance Observer (NSGO).

48. The Chemistry of Tezspire: A Literary Analysis Category: Literature Review Author(s): Jordana Discher, College of Humanities and Health Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: This presentation will focus on the chemistry of the newly approved drug Tezspire, which is used to treat asthma.

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Proposal Reviewers and Presentation Judges

Thank you to the following individuals for their contributions to Scholars' Day.

Kevin Barlow

Amy Millsap

Jennifer Batson

Brenda Morton

Kim Bodenhamer

Ruth Ann Murphy

Tracy Booth

Mandy Parra

Kindyle Brennan

Nicole Poritsanos

Stephanie Chambers

Kristal Rychlik

Brandie Cheshier

Matt Smith

Todd Ferguson

Judy Trotti

Karla Gonzalez

Paul Stock

Randy Hendricks

Lem Taylor

Janene Lewis

George Willey

Jesse Mala

Darryn Willoughby

Jason Martin

Kathleen Wood

Seena Mathew

Andy Woodward

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