Scholars' Day Program 2025

Welcome to the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Spring 2025 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. This year’s event includes 115 UMHB students and 21 faculty sponsors. All presentations are located in the Bawcom Student Union Building (BSUB) except the Creative Works will be located in the Marek-Smith Center.

Scholars' Day Committee Dr. Joni Ylostalo Director of Undergraduate Research Dr. Kris Ward Director, Office of Research Dr. Aaron Baggett Dr. Sean Benson Dr. Kim Bodenhamer Dr. Kindyle Brennan Dr. David Chrisman Dr. Jennifer Costello Dr. Karla Gonzalez Dr. Meri Hughes Dr. Matthew Kuester Dr. Chris Langford Dr. Janene Lewis Dr. Seena Mathew Dr. Amy Millsap Dr. Mandy Parra Dr. Laurel Pilkington Dr. Caroline Pollard Ms. Sam Shamard

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Schedule of Events

Time 8:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m.

8:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m.

9:15 a.m. 11:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m. 1:00 p.m.

Event

Location

Introductory remarks

McLane Great Hall C-D

Podium presentations

McLane Great Hall C-D

Creative works

Marek-Smith Center

Poster presentations

2nd and 3rd floor lobby

Lunch and awards

McLane Great Hall E

This year, we have scholars participating In the following academic categories:

Graduate Student Education Exercise and Sport Science Nursing Humanities Natural Sciences Social Sciences

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PODIUM PRESENTATIONS

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

McLane Great Hall C-D Bawcom Student Union Building

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8:30-8:45 a.m.

1. What are the neurological effects of psilocybin on patients experiencing mental distress from cancer and PTSD? Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Conner Rohrer Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Seena Mathew Description: This is a review of studies looking at the neurological effects of psilocybin in patients experiencing mental distress from cancer, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health disorders. Research indicates that psilocybin not only affects neuroplasticity in patients but also increases their quality of life.

8:45-9:00 a.m.

2. Phone usage and its effects on posture and pain.

Category: Exercise and Sport Science Author(s): Felicity Roberts Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ariane Secrest Description: In Spring 2024, UMHB students participated in a study that measured their screen time, cervical range of motion, and pain.

This study will investigate if there is a correlation between smart phone usage and pain.

9:00-9:15 a.m.

3. Magic School AI: Evaluating Pedagogical Soundness and Developmental Appropriateness Category: Education Author(s): Katelynn Anderson Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jodi Pilgrim Description: The research outlines the extent in which the lesson planning generator in the AI engine Magic School AI delivers developmentally appropriate and pedagogically sound instruction.

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9:15-9:30 a.m.

4. A Spectrum of Expectations: How Prepared Are We to Care for the Neurodiverse Population?

Category: Nursing Author(s): Lan Salazar Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Michele Hackney Description: This study expands on previous research to examine the relationship between healthcare educators’ exposure to neurodivergent topics within their own education and their current knowledge, confidence, and comfort in teaching the healthcare needs of neurodivergent individuals.

9:30-9:45 a.m.

5. Electricity Generation in Algal Fuel Cells: Investigating the Role of Photosynthetic Activity in Anabaena Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Preston Phelps Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Joni Ylostalo Description: This study explores the potential of algae-based microbial fuel cells (MFCs) as a sustainable method for electricity generation, utilizing the unique properties of Anabaena, a nitrogenfixing cyanobacterium. A single-chamber MFC was constructed, with Anabaena acting as the bio-catalyst to drive electron transfer and generate electricity. The experimental setup measured electrical output under controlled conditions, continuously monitoring voltage and current using a multimeter. Power density was calculated to assess system efficiency and potential scalability.

9:45-10:00 a.m.

6. Life in a Nutshell Category: Humanities Author(s): Brighton Konig Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Laura Bedwell Description: Life in a Nutshell is a presentation based on the medieval writings of Julian of Norwich. It explores her writings and Christian standpoints talking primarily discussing one specific metaphor, and how it can apply into our modern Christian life by explaining the text, the metaphor, and scripture references.

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CREATIVE WORKS

9:15 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

The Immersion Room A114 Marek-Smith Center for Teacher Preparation (Seating is limited)

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9:15-9:30 a.m.

7. "Journey to Freedom: Exploring the Underground Railroad" Category: Education Author(s): Shelby Weaver, Sarah Dolliff Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Caroline Pollard Description: This is a lesson designed for 10th - 12th graders in the immersion room at the Marek-Smith Center. Students will explore the history of the Underground Railroad through various activities: learning about key figures, decoding letters, and solving puzzles to help students gain an understanding and appreciation for the Underground Railroad.

9:35-9:50 a.m.

8. Interactive Holocaust Category: Education Author(s): Mollee Golden, Sarah Heslip Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Caroline Pollard Description: This will be an interactive lesson in the Marek-smith immersion room exploring the Holocaust. This project is sponsored

by Caroline Pollard. Created by Mollee Golden and Sarah Helsip.

Students will explore Auschwitz, A train car, some personal belongings of people in the camps, and interact with people involved in the Holocaust.

9:55-10:10 a.m.

9. Women’s Suffrage Category: Education Author(s): Matlynn Aguirre, Reanna West Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Caroline Pollard Description: We attend University of Mary-Hardin Baylor, our major is education, and our sponsor is Caroline Pollard. This was prepared

by Reanna West and Matlynn Aguirre

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10:15-10:30 a.m.

10. Life in the Texas Women’s Suffrage Movement Category: Education Author(s): Vivian Esparza, Arionna Davis Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Caroline Pollard Description: This is a lesson for 7th graders to learn about the Women’s suffrage movement. The lesson will be taught through an immersion room in the Merek-Smith Center.

10:35-10:50 a.m.

11. The emancipation proclamation: who said that Category: Education Author(s): Teron Brown, James Garcia Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Caroline Pollard Description: This presentation is for 8th grade. It contains information on both the lives of Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis. The next scene will have pieces of each person's inaugural addresses and there will be a drag and drop feature to show if the quote was placed under the right person. This interactive presentation for 8th grade will consist of two scenes featuring drag and drop activities and audio clips of Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis. Through these interactive elements, participants will engage with historical content in a dynamic way.

10:55-11:10 a.m.

12. Legacy of Liberty: America's Journey Category: Education Author(s): Jason Blattner, Peyton Sedlacek, Claire Hodge Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Caroline Pollard Description: This interactive social studies lesson, Evolution of America, was designed for 6-8th grade students and was created by Peyton Sedlacek, Jason Blattner, and Claire Hodge, and sponsored by Dr. Caroline Pollard.

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11:15-11:30 a.m.

13. Patriotic Lyric Discovery Category: Education Author(s): Faith Guenther, Haley Coski Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Caroline Pollard Description: The presenters will demonstrate how immersive technology can be used to help first grade students to be able to identify the meaning and composers of the Pledge of Allegiance, American the Beautiful, and the National Anthem, as well as the lyrics.

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POSTER PRESENTATIONS

10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Graduate Students - 2nd Floor Lobby Undergraduate Students - 3rd Floor Lobby Bawcom Student Union Building

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14. Addressing Rural Education Challenges to Bridge Literacy and Achievement Gaps Category: Education Author(s): Lueella Shelton Faculty Sponsor: Dr. George Willey Description: This study examines the challenges faced by a rural high school, including socioeconomic disparities, limited teacher qualifications, and literacy deficits, all of which significantly impact student learning. Targeted interventions, such as intensive vocabulary instruction and the use of digital tools, are designed to enhance science literacy, comprehension, and academic performance. The findings aim to inform strategies for addressing these gaps, promoting educational equity, and improving outcomes for underserved student populations.

15. A Study of The Readability of the STAAR Category: Education Author(s): Norma Wheeler Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jodi Pilgrim Description: This study examines the readability of the STAAR test using online readability algorithms, including the Fry Readability Formula. Data sources will include the 2023 and 2024 released STAAR for grades 3, 4, and 5. Data analysis will include a report of the readability data and appropriateness of the tests.

16. Association of Urinary Incontinence and Landing Forces in Nulliparous Athletes Category: Exercise and Sport Science Author(s): Nikolas Keratsopoulos, Jaci Kelly, Kindyle Brennan, Peggie Williamson, Laurel Proulx, Mandy Parra Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mandy Parra Description: Pelvic floor research is becoming more prevalent in college athletics to better monitor pelvic floor health in athletes who undergo high impact forces that potentially cause incontinence, pain, or prolapse. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between jump metrics and incontinence in acrobatics and tumbling athletes.

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17. Relationship of Hip Range of Motion and Peak Braking Force in DIII Female Athletes Category: Exercise and Sport Science Author(s): Jayden Widener, Katyanna Colburn, Nikolas Keratsopoulos, Jaci Kelly, Kindyle Brennan, Peggie Williamson Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mandy Parra Description: The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between hip range of motion (ROM) and peak braking forces in female Division III acrobatic and tumbling athletes. Findings suggest increased hip ROM correlates with higher braking forces, potentially linking lower extremity mechanics to pelvic floor dysfunction.

18. Sex-Related Differences in Vertical Jump Height and Reactive Strength Index in Jumping Sports Category: Exercise and Sport Science Author(s): Mathis Rollin, Nikolas Keratsopoulos, Cole Strickland, Dimitrije Cabarkapa, Jaci Kelly, Mandy Parra, Jesse Mala Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jesse Mala Description: Vertical jump performance and reactive strength index are key performance indicators for athletic performance. This research aimed to investigate sex-related differences in vertical jump height and reactive strength index in jumping sports. These differences could aid strength and conditioning professionals with potential adaptations needed for sex-related sport performance.

19. Interrater Agreement of Novel Inertial Measurement Unit Devices Placed Bilaterally in Assessing Jump Performance Category: Exercise and Sport Science Author(s): Cole Strickland, Mathis Rollin, Nikolas Keratsopoulos, Jaci Kelly, Dimitrije Cabarkapa, Mandy Parra Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mandy Parra Description: Force plates are considered the “gold standard” for jump testing but may be impractical for strength and conditioning professionals. Inertial measurement units (IMU) are becoming popular among professionals in assessing jump performance. This study aimed to investigate the interrater reliability of a novel IMU device placed bilaterally.

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20. Framing NCAA Communication: Michigan Sign-Stealing vs. USC Bush Scandal Category: Exercise and Sport Science Author(s): Jamison Wylie Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: This study applies framing theory to analyze NCAA communication during the Michigan sign-stealing scandal and Reggie Bush’s improper benefits case. By examining media statements and narratives, this research evaluates how the NCAA framed each of these cases and assesses the consistency of their communication strategies.

21. Faith Service Balance: Preventing Burnout Category: Exercise and Sport Science Author(s): Nicholas McElroy Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Cecilia Wharton Erlund Description: Review of Literature covering burnout caused by lack of balance in life activities related to visions of service and faith.

22. Muscle Quality and Vertical Jump Height Correlation in Division III Female Volleyball Players Category: Exercise and Sport Science Author(s): Avery Gray, Mathis Rollin, Brandie Cheshier, McKenzie Cano, Jaci Kelly, Mandy Parra Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Brandie Cheshier Description: Vertical jump height (JH) is accepted as a measurement of lower body power. There is a lack of information on the relationship between lower body power and muscle quality (MQ).

Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the contractile area of the vastus lateralis and JH in collegiate volleyball athletes.

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23. Relationship Between Handgrip and Isometric Shoulder Strength in Division III Collegiate Pitchers: a Pilot Study Category: Exercise and Sport Science Author(s): Bennett Seal, Nikolas Keratsopoulos, Jaci Kelly, Mandy Parra Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mandy Parra Description: Isometric internal (IR) and external (ER) rotation have traditionally been used as predictors of overall shoulder health in pitchers. Dynamometers are large and need a great deal of skill to be used. Field-based methods for assessing shoulder health are needed for pre-post-game and intra-inning fatigue assessment to mitigate injury.

24. Clickbait vs. Credibility: Analyzing Media Narratives in the Deflategate Scandal.

Category: Exercise and Sport Science Author(s): Tyler Woods Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lester Sombito Description: This study examines how social media headlines influenced engagement and public perception of Tom Brady's Deflategate scandal. Analyzing likes, shares, and comments, it explores how media outlets shaped audience interaction and discussion, using framing theory to evaluate the impact of headline strategies on viewer engagement and discourse.

25. “Seduction & Survival: The Temptress Women in Cervantes Literary Works” Category: Humanities Author(s): Raquel Baker Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Rubi Ugofsky-Mendez Description: Our poster will demonstrate gender inequality in Cervantes’ works through feminist theory, we can apply key feminist concepts such as patriarchy, the male gaze, and agency to analyze how women in his literature navigate social constraints.

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26. The Advantages of Vitamin B5, Pantothenic Acid Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Amber Phillips Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: Vitamin B5, pantothenic acid, is one of eight B vitamins.

Pantothenic acid supports metabolism, the digestive system, and hair and skin quality. There are many sources of this vitamin in the average American's diet, so supplements are not usually needed.

27. A Comparative Analysis of Chlorophyll Concentration in Spinach Samples Using Visible Spectroscopy.

Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Amber Dickey Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: This study utilized visible spectroscopy to analyze the concentration of chlorophyll present in spinach. The research focused on how different methods of packaging spinach, such as canned frozen or fresh, and preparing spinach affect the concentration of chlorophyll present 28. The Impact of Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) in Sports Drinks on Athlete Performance and Efficiency Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Emmanuel Diaz Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: This project examines the impact of Vitamin B12 in sports drinks on athletic performance and efficiency. It explores how B12 affects energy production, endurance, and recovery. By analyzing its role in metabolism and muscle function, the study aims to determine its effectiveness in enhancing athletic performance and overall physical efficiency.

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29.. The Science & Reasoning Behind Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) Fortification and Its Positive Effects Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Derek Gispert Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: A closer look at the discovery of vitamin B9’s positive effects on birth defects outcomes, the reasoning why (scientific evidence) and the lasting impacts of forced or voluntary folic acid fortification programs in countries around the world on the rates of NTDs (neural tube birth defects).

30. Synthesis of Vitamin B3 (Niacin or Nicotinic Acid) Derivatives for Skin Health and Cancer Prevention Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Julia Jurewicz Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: This literature review discusses methods for the efficient synthesis of niacin, also known as nicotinic acid, nicotinamide, and niacinamide. Additionally, it examines preexisting research regarding the potential of these derivatives in preventing inflammation associated with certain skin disorders, and reducing risk for non-melanoma skin cancers.

31. Riboflavin in Photochemistry Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Alejandro Sanchez Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: Vitamin B2 is involved in photochemical reactions due to its ability to absorb light. This is an investigative project on how riboflavin interacts with light and its possible implications for its role in biological systems.

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32. A Physicochemical Investigation of Major League Baseball Composition Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Shane Melick Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: This study investigates the composition of Major League Baseball (MLB) authenticated baseballs from the 2024 regular season and the 2022 Home Run DerbyTM. Properties investigated include mass, circumference, diameter, volume, density, seam height, and coefficient of restitution, as well as the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy of the yarn.

33. Impact of Caffeine Intake on Drosophila melanogaster Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Amy Perez, Ava Reid Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Seena Mathew Description: This study explores the complex relationship between caffeine intake on various organisms, specifically focusing on the impact on Drosophila melanogaster at both physiological and neurologic levels. These results may provide insight and clarity about the risks of caffeine consumption to humans.

34. Capsella Bursa-pastoris Extracts: Exploring Viscosity and Coagulation in Blood Substitutes Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Morgan McMullen Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: This research examines the viscosities of Capsella bursa-pastoris extracts. The study aims to assess their coagulation potential when mixed with artificial blood, contributing to understanding their effectiveness in addressing blood-related issues and their applications in holistic medicine.

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35. Did You Remember to Take Your Thiamine Today?: The Effects of Thiamine on Cognitive Functions Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Landon Fortson Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: Vitamin B1 was the first B vitamin discovered in 1897 and with it came a way to examine the production of energy in the body and aid us in giving us energy to our body and cognitive functions, but are they helping or hindering.

36. A Viscosity Analysis: Exploring How Viscosity Enhances Medication Flavor and Patient Experience Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Camille Ornelas Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: This experiment examines how the viscosity of flavorings impacts the medication experience. The viscosity of five flavorings, strawberry, banana, orange, grape, and watermelon, was measured through various steps. By obtaining this data, the relationship between flavor thickness and medication delivery can lead to better treatments, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.

37. Real-World Applications Of Quantum Mechanics Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Elizabeth Henry Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description: Quantum mechanics explains how things work on a subatomic level. This study shows how things that are commonly used are made possible through quantum mechanics. The examples used are GPS, electronics like smartphones and computers, lasers, and medical imaging.

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38. Cocaine Addiction: Neurochemical Effects, Demographic Influences, and Strategies for Treatment and Societal Impact Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Thant Sin Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Seena Mathew Description: Cocaine addiction remains a critical public health issue, affecting millions worldwide. This research examines cocaine’s effects on neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine) in addiction, cognitive function and the societal burden. Demographic factors such as gender, age, and genetic variations in cocaine metabolism are analyzed as well as pharmacological and behavioral treatment strategies to address addiction and its long-term consequences.

39. A simple but effective cure for depression Category: Natural Sciences Author(s): Max Brisbane Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ruth Ann Murphy Description:. Vitamin b6 has shown signs of significantly improving depression, stress, and anxiety.

40. Substance Use and Its Adverse Effects on High School Students' Academic Achievement Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Sierra Rubalcaba Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This literature review examines the negative impact of adolescent substance use on academic achievement, including GPA, attendance, and participation. Research consistently shows that substance use, including alcohol, marijuana, and antidepressants, leads to lower academic performance, increased dropout rates, and overall student participation, highlighting the need for effective interventions.

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41. The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Briley Miller Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This literature review examines research on social media’s impact on adolescent mental health, focusing on anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation. It explores risk factors, intervention strategies, and implications for educators, mental health professionals, and policymakers.

42. How volunteering impacts spiritual growth and development Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Veronica Shark Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This literature review examines how volunteering fosters spiritual growth by enhancing purpose, social connections, and self-reflection. It explores psychological and emotional benefits, compares religious and secular contexts, and highlights key factors like motivation and reflection. Additionally, it identifies gaps in research on the long-term spiritual impact of volunteerism.

43. The Effects of Isolation on High School Student’s Academic Performance Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Francisco Renteria Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: The description of this project is a literature review that examines the affects of isolation has on a high schools students academic. This literature review seeks to look for gaps in the research finding.

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44. Exploring the Impact of Church Involvement on the Well-being of Adult Families who have a Child(ren) with a Disability Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Averianna Featherston Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This literature review seeks to analyzes the relationship between church support and how it affects the community's wellbeing for individuals with disabilities. This research indicates that attending church services increases the opportunities for inclusion.

45. Family Connections: How Visitation Rates Impact Quality of life for Older Adults Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Jayda Hopes Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This is a literary review that seeks to understand how visitation rates impact quality of life for older adults.

46. Does Transracial or Ethnic Foster Care Placements Impact the Sense of Belonging Among Former Foster Care Individuals?

Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Sarah Nguyen Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This literature review explores the potential impact of transracial foster care placements on foster youth's sense of belonging.

47. Understanding the Impact A Trauma-Informed Workshop Has on Nursing Home Staff’s Skills and Knowledge Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Aracelia Comeaux Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This research evaluates the impact of a traumainformed care workshop on nursing home staff's skills and knowledge. The workshop focused on trauma, TIC principles, and their application in long-term care. This presentation will share the results of the workshop with nursing home staff (n=35) and provide recommendations for future research.

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48. Exploring the Effects of Natural Disasters on Families Author(s): Alyssa Pender Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This literature review examines how family functioning is impacted by natural disasters including income, mental health, coping strategies, and the parent-child relationship.

49. Exploring the impact of workshops and simulations on teacher empathy and knowledge for students with ADHD Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Macy Rodgers Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This research project presented the UMHB education senior seminar students with a workshop and simulation regarding ADHD and a pre-and post-questionnaire. The goal of this project was to improve teacher knowledge and empathy towards students with ADHD and highlight the importance of simulation experiences in teacher education.

50. The Role of Religious Practice in Enhancing Well-Being for Foster Parents Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Latrice Tillman Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This literature review will examine how religious practices like prayer, worship, and small groups impact foster parents' well-being, improving physical and mental health. It highlights the emotional resilience fostered through religious engagement, explores gaps in research, and suggests strategies for integrating spiritual support to enhance foster family outcomes.

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51. Impact of Foster Care Maltreatment on Attachment Styles in Adulthood Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Johnathan Ogir Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: My presentation explores the impact of maltreatment experience in foster care and how it influences attachment styles in adulthood.

52. Navigating Uncertainty: Academic Challenges and Solutions for Youth Experiencing Homelessness Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Rylee Renfrow Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: My project is a visual display of a literature review that I wrote.

53. Homeless No More: A Critical Analysis of the Root Causes of Homelessness Among the Female Population Category: Social Sciences Author(s): Jason McCarty, Lyndsey Schwope, College of Humanities and Sciences Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer Costello Description: This research explores the underlying factors contributing to homelessness among women, including economic instability, domestic violence, mental health challenges, and systemic barriers. By analyzing these root causes, we aim to inform policies and interventions that promote sustainable solutions and support for at-risk and homeless women.

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54. Mavacamten vs. Traditional Pharmacologic Treatment for Improving Symptoms and Function in Patients with Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Maddie Goettsch, Roger Nottingham, Britny Zawacki Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This research systematically reviewed the efficacy and safety of mavacamten, a novel myosin inhibitor, compared to traditional pharmacologic treatments for obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Findings indicated mavacamten significantly improved cardiac function, symptom burden, and quality of life while reducing reliance on invasive therapy, highlighting its potential as a disease-modifying treatment.

55. Mediterranean Diet: Does It Prevent Cognitive Decline?

Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Abigail Bonniwell, Kira Huck, Alyssa Sweeney Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This research explores the impact of the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets on cognitive decline in adults aged 45 and older. A systematic review of 13 studies suggests that these diets may improve cognitive function, while the Western diet accelerates decline. Future research should refine assessment methods and control for confounding factors.

56. CPAP: Unmasking Its Role in Controlling Hypertension in Sleep Apnea Patients Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Rebecca Buckner, Mariana Cantu, Libby Helm, Morgen Richardson Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This systematic review evaluated the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on blood pressure (BP) regulation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea and hypertension. Findings suggest CPAP effectively lowers nocturnal BP and restores BP rhythms, with varying effects on daytime BP depending on patient adherence and other factors.

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57. An Approach to Appendicitis in Pregnant Women Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Kyndal Riewe, Gracie Creps, Elizabeth Baldo, Jacquelyn Forbes Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This research examined the diagnostic challenges of acute appendicitis in pregnant women, highlighting how physiological changes complicate symptom presentation and imaging accuracy. A systematic review of 16 studies reveals the risks of delayed diagnosis, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach to improve maternal and fetal outcomes through timely evaluation and treatment.

58. Do Gut Health Modulators Alter Behavioral Deficits in People with Autism?

Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Brianna Cole, Alex Carter, Breanna Brumet, Briana Sesmundo Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This research explored the impact of gut modulators, such as probiotics and prebiotics, on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms. A systematic review of 14 studies found that probiotics improved social communication and behavioral symptoms. Further research is needed to confirm long-term benefits and establish standardized gut-based interventions for ASD management.

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59. Effects of Alcohol Cessation on Patients with Gastrointestinal Cancer Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Caroline Zinnecker, Hanna-Rose Hix, Mckelle Winsor, Chloe Williams Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: Analyzing 15 studies, data was collected to explore whether stopping alcohol consumption improves five-year survival rates. Findings are inconclusive, with heavy alcohol intake linked to worse outcomes, while moderate wine consumption shows potential benefits. Further research is needed for definitive conclusions. “This systematic review evaluates the findings of studies investigating the effects of alcohol cessation on five-year survival rates and overall prognosis in GI cancer patients.

60. The Impact of Social Media on the Mental Health of Today’s Youth Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Savannah Mease, Macey Ditta, Caroline Cannan Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This study explores the impact of increased social media use and early exposure on adolescent mental health, revealing links to increased depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, especially in young females. It highlights a need for further research to develop safety guidelines and promote healthier online engagement with the youth.

61. Are GLP-1 Agonists Worth It? Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Elizabeth Golden, Abigail Denman, Haley Cope, Jacquelyn Brewer Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This research evaluated the effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide and liraglutide, for long-term weight management in obese, non-diabetic patients. A systematic review of 15 studies found significant weight loss and metabolic benefits compared to diet and exercise alone, though long-term effects and safety require further investigation.

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62. Does the Length of Hospital Stay Influence the Effectiveness of Psychiatric Treatment?

Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Lexie Lima, Katelyn Robinson, Karen Smith Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This research examined the relationship between psychiatric inpatient length of stay (LOS) and readmission rates. A systematic review of 30 studies revealed conflicting findings, emphasizing the critical role of post-discharge care. Results suggest LOS alone is not a primary predictor of readmission, highlighting the need for individualized treatment and aftercare planning.

63. The Impact of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus on Cognitive Decline and Dementia: A Systematic Review Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Ciarra Alamia, Camille Perkins, Josue Orozco Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This systematic review examines the relationship between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Findings highlight how poor glycemic control, prolonged diabetes duration, and complications like diabetic retinopathy contribute to cognitive outcomes. Effective diabetes management may reduce dementia risk, emphasizing the need for further targeted research.

64. The Sugar Showdown: A1c vs OGTT in Diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes Category: Graduate Student Author(s): Amanda Gillespie, Savannah Garza, Cody Hays, Grant Richardson Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Wendi Stewart Description: This research evaluates the effectiveness of the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) versus Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in high-risk populations. A systematic review of 15 studies found OGTT to be more sensitive.

The research suggests a re-evaluation of HbA1c diagnostic thresholds.

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Thanks to all of the abstract reviewers and judges that helped to make Scholars' Day a success

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